Sudan's capital Khartoum, scene of a press conference at the President's Mansion.
Defense Minister Abdul Rashim stood behind the podium covered in a deep blue tablecloth, with two huge projection screens behind him.
The left showed radar records of US Army drone flight paths, while the right displayed infrared images of Sam-6 missiles launching into the sky.
"This is a blatant violation of Sudan's sovereignty!"
Rashim's voice echoed through the hall via the simultaneous interpretation system.
"We call upon the international community to condemn this violation of the UN Charter."
Flashlights became a sea of lights, the clicks of shutters ringing out continuously.
A Reuters reporter raised his hand to ask, "Minister, there are reports that the drone was shot down by a private military company called 'Musician' and not the Sudan Government Army. What is your comment on this?"
Rashim's expression remained unchanged: "The Sudan Government maintains good cooperation with all legally registered security contractors. The important thing is that no country has the right to send armed drones into our airspace."
A CNN reporter from the back suddenly asked loudly, "The US State Department just issued a statement claiming these drones might have been conducting anti-terrorism missions. Can you confirm whether the targeted entity was related to a terrorist organization?"
Rashim's gaze turned sharp: "The intelligence we have shows these drones targeted a camp where a legitimate businessman and his employees reside. If the US has any evidence that it was a terrorist base, it should be presented through proper channels. Once verified, we will dispatch a specialized team to liaise and resolve the issue, rather than sending killer drones."
At the same time, in the tent at the Atlon Oasis, Song Heping turned off the live broadcast.
He turned to a dozen mercenaries in the tent and raised his coffee cup.
"To victory," he said succinctly.
Everyone raised their cups in response, a cheer erupting in the tent.
Jiang Feng walked over and handed him a satellite phone.
"Call from the Northern Sudan Military Intelligence Bureau Chief," he said in a low voice, "He wants to know where we got the Sam-6 system."
Song Heping took the phone, a merchant-like smile appeared on his face: "Minister, I heard you're interested in the Sam-6 missile system?"
"Mr. Song, we are interested in all effective weapons."
"Hmm..."
Song Heping revealed the smile of a cunning merchant.
"That thing is hard to obtain. I struggled to find four sets, and they were acquired through special channels. If you're really interested, I can help, but I can't offer a discount considering your country's financial situation..."
The implication was already there.
I have the goods, but can you afford them?
"Gold mines."
The Minister was straightforward.
"Two gold mining rights, in exchange for ten sets of Sam-6 systems. Do you find this price reasonable? I believe there isn't a more favorable deal in the world."
His straightforwardness actually stunned Song Heping.
Two gold mine rights?
In exchange for ten sets of Sam-6 systems?
Is this Minister out of his mind?
Is there such a good deal in the world?
"I want to know which two gold mines' rights are involved."
Song Heping immediately became cautious, thinking it over carefully.
"Huwa and Dalka gold mines."
The Minister quickly reported the names.
Upon hearing these names, Song Heping smirked inwardly.
I see...
How could such a good deal come to me?
Damn it!
Both of these gold mines are in Northern Darfur, one southwest of the Atlon Oasis, the other in a northwestern direction. Both gold mines are in areas where armed forces crisscross.
To put it simply, neither gold mine is under government control.
The Minister using these two gold mines for trade is essentially a cost-free business, empty-handedly grabbing benefits!
Jiang Feng beside him hurriedly waved his hand, indicating this condition could not be accepted.
Song Heping, however, remained calm, thinking the conditions through before responding, "Alright! Deal."
"That's great! When will you deliver?" The Minister became eager immediately.
Song Heping said, "Don't rush, Minister, I also have my conditions."
"Conditions?" The Minister's tone immediately turned somber: "What conditions? Mr. Song, don't forget we've helped you quite a bit."
"I know." Song Heping said, "I am not an ungrateful person, but our transaction must have a formal procedure. Let's do this, within three days, I'll meet you in Khartoum. Bring along the heads of relevant mining departments, and we'll formalize everything. Business means contracts, and we're a legitimate company."
Hearing Song Heping mention signing a contract, the Minister felt reassured.