Chapter 83

In the harsh North African landscape, the term "poor" takes on a whole new level of meaning. It's a place where even owning two beaten-up cars can expose you to the lurking threats of local gangsters.

Jin Dun and his companions were on high alert as they traversed the streets, their eyes darting around, ready to spring into action at any moment. Beneath their seats, they had several RPK-74 machine guns, an upgraded version of the AK-74, designed to provide robust fire support for the Soviet army. These weapons were a clear statement: they meant business.

But today's mission was not to engage in combat; it was a visit to the US military camp. Still, Tang Dao and his team were confident they could handle any situation that might arise.

Thankfully, they reached Gezira Sea without any incidents. This area stood apart from others. It had few pedestrians, as it had once been home to a French businessman's factory. After the Somali civil war, the factory lay in ruins, and the businessman met his demise here. Later, the US troops moved in, breathing new life into the area.

As their vehicle approached the camp, it came to a halt at a fenced checkpoint. A group of US troops emerged from a nearby sentry booth, fully armed. Notably, a few of them wore masks, featuring a cute cartoon mouse on a white background. The US military allowed private individuals to bring in equipment, but they also provided top-of-the-line gear to those who needed it.

Their journey took an unexpected turn when the commander noticed that Bell was carrying a micro punch on his back. He promptly instructed them that weapons were not permitted inside the camp. Gesturing towards a white plastic bucket labeled "storage," he requested that they leave their weapons there for safekeeping.

Bell glanced at Tang Dao, who in turn glanced at Cecilio. With a nod from Cecilio, they began to unload their weapons. Jin Dun and his team also handed over two grenades each, tossing them casually into the bucket.

The sight of their cache of weapons left the American commander visibly taken aback. These two groups had brought a substantial amount of firepower, which was on par with that of the US military.

Once they'd surrendered their weapons, they were directed to follow an American soldier named Mista. He led them into the camp, where an impressive array of military equipment was on display. Tang Dao couldn't help but admire the modern combat gear in front of him.

As they continued through the camp, Tang Dao turned to Jin Dun and inquired about his combat abilities. Jin Dun revealed that he had once fought John and had pinned him to the ground in just 17 seconds. This confession earned him praise from Tang Dao, who lauded his skill. Bell, on the other hand, disagreed and boldly claimed that he could defeat John in just 10 seconds.

Their conversation wasn't particularly discreet, and Cecilio and Mista overheard it. Mista was taken aback by the exchange, but Cecilio was annoyed. He silenced Bell, prompting Bell to grumble quietly.

Their journey through the camp continued, and they passed by various military equipment. Tang Dao couldn't help but be in awe of his surroundings. He even caught sight of an aircraft covered by a dustproof cloth, hinting at the industrial atmosphere in the air. He couldn't help but dream of a day when he could endorse American-made products.

Cecilio, who had already climbed a few steps ahead, called out to Tang Dao, who had momentarily fallen behind. Cecilio noticed Tang Dao's delay and inquired if everything was alright.

Tang Dao quickly caught up with the group and smiled back at Cecilio, assuring him that he was fine. He was determined that one day he'd be able to endorse American products. In his mind, he wasn't a spokesman for Soviet goods but an arms dealer who could offer international products.

With that thought, they continued their journey through the US military camp, leaving behind the aircraft and the possibility of future opportunities.