Chapter 81

Laughter echoed from Tang Dao's office, audible even to employees passing by in the hallway. They whispered among themselves, trying to guess the cause of his excitement.

Tang Dao had every reason to be thrilled. Kofi had just helped him secure a substantial order: ten S-60 57mm anti-aircraft guns, 100 RPG-1s, three BTR-152 armored personnel carriers, and various guns and ammunition. The total order amounted to nearly 7 million US dollars.

Coffey had played his part well.

With a cigar dangling from his lips, Tang Dao tossed one to Robert, who stood before him. He lit Robert's cigar with a match, and the smoke enveloped them both.

"Boss, he mentioned that he'd like to receive his commission upfront," Robert said.

"Give it to him," Tang Dao replied. His voice was rich with satisfaction, and he leaned back in his chair.

Robert hesitated. "But we haven't received the payment for the order yet. If he takes his commission now..."

"Are you worried he'll run off with the money?" Tang Dao chuckled heartily, his laughter resonating. He stood up, waving his hand, and added, "Let him have it! If he can run, then he can run! And if he dares to run, remember, we have the means to make people disappear from this world. Robert, in our line of work, we can't be too timid. Look at me, I sometimes think I'm too modest. It's time to assert ourselves, follow the rules, and give it to him. Don't be afraid to make a few mistakes."

Tang Dao was grooming Robert as a capable partner. After all, he couldn't do everything on his own in the future, could he? Despite his successes, he still preferred to remain low-key.

Robert nodded, recognizing the wisdom in Tang Dao's words. They couldn't rely solely on Tang Dao's leadership; they needed capable individuals to handle various aspects of the business.

"There's another matter I'd like you to handle. If executed correctly, it could secure the company's finances," Tang Dao said as he handed Robert a written plan.

Robert glanced at the plan and noticed the title, "The Ruble Loan Scheme."

"The exchange rates between the Soviet Union and the Western world have reached a stalemate, with minimal circulation," Tang Dao explained eagerly. "On November 1, 1990, the official ruble exchange rate depreciated significantly, from 0.6 rubles to 1 US dollar to 1.80 rubles to 1 US dollar. We exchange rubles for US dollars and, when the Soviet Union eventually dissolves, we switch back to rubles. There's a fortune to be made."

Tang Dao knew that when the Soviet Union collapsed, the ruble would become the standard currency unit for Russia. He couldn't help but get excited. He added, "In July 1993, the Russian government invalidated ruble banknotes issued between 1961 and 1992. They introduced a new ruble at an official exchange rate of 3,235 rubles per dollar. Do you know what this means?"

Robert realized the immense profit potential. "It's a money-making opportunity."

"Exactly," Tang Dao confirmed. "Let's do it wisely. The Soviet banks are stringent with loan requests, especially for funds leaving the country. They are cautious about lending to businessmen with Western ties."

Robert considered the challenges but then proposed an alternative. "What if we approach Asamoah Gian Anta?"

Tang Dao recalled the name, realizing it was the Deputy Minister of Energy in Somalia. "You mean, approach him for an approval slip based on Somalia's energy mining rights, with our company owning 20%? Then, use that to secure a loan from the Soviets. If we don't repay, let the blame fall on these gangsters?"

Tang Dao was impressed by Robert's thinking. He knew this approach wouldn't be straightforward, but it had potential. "Can't we lure Asamoah to cooperate with us? No one can resist the allure of substantial benefits. If we offer him enough, maybe he could become the top dog."

Robert recognized the opportunity. "Boss, leave it to me. I'll make it happen."

"Good. Be courageous. The Soviet Union is on its last legs anyway," Tang Dao said. He paused, then added with a grin, "Borrow as much as you can. If that old man can't finish it, we'll squeeze him dry."

He intended to let the old regime expend its last resources, playing out some of its waste heat.

The two discussed further details, and Robert was entrusted with this important task. He felt determined to execute it flawlessly.

What if Asamoah disagreed?

No, he would make sure Asamoah agreed. After all, Asamoah had only one son.

Robert had become resolute. He was like a sharp knife, ready to cut wherever the boss pointed, to carve out his share of the wealth.

...

"Alright, thank you. I'll be there on time tomorrow."

After ending the call, Tang Dao's expression darkened.

Why was the Yankee getting involved again?

Cecilio had informed him that the new US military attaché stationed in Mogadishu intended to hold a briefing and had invited all foreign forces in the city, including Tang Dao.

But Tang Dao couldn't understand why he, a foreign force, was being invited. Moreover, he had a bad feeling about this meeting; he suspected it wouldn't be to his advantage.

After the Gulf War, the world had been impressed by the US military's power, and it had taken on a self-proclaimed role as the world's peacekeeper. It intervened in sensitive issues, proclaiming its mission to "spread love" throughout the world.

"I hope they don't ruin my money-making plans," Tang Dao muttered to himself. "If they don't let me eat, they shouldn't blame me for spoiling their party."

...