Chapter 86

At 11:17 local time in Somalia, an American Airlines Boeing 737 landed at Mogadishu International Airport. The sight of the aircraft attracted the attention of onlookers, as it was not a common occurrence to witness such a large plane in Mogadishu.

Tang Dao had arranged for three UAZ469 command vehicles and seven old-fashioned troop carriers to be transferred from Aidid's forces. In exchange, Tang Dao had to give Aidid 50 AK47s. It was a transaction driven by necessity, although dealing with Aidid and his men always carried risks due to their reputation for treachery.

As Tang Dao waited in one of the cars, smoking a cigarette, Jin Dun and his team stood nearby, and Aidid's men provided additional security. The presence of these armed men created a visually striking scene, drawing curious glances from passengers in the airport's waiting area.

Inside the airport, flight attendants and passengers looked out the windows, surprised by the unusual spectacle of heavily armed guards, bodyguards in suits, and military vehicles. This was not a typical sight at US airports, and it left many intrigued by the commotion outside.

One flight attendant, Brenna, who was initially sulking due to a passenger's advances, noticed the commotion outside the window. Her curiosity got the better of her as she joined her colleagues to see what was happening. The scene of guards, bodyguards, and military vehicles made quite an impression on her.

Meanwhile, Pierce and his team disembarked from the plane. Pierce was approached by a passenger who made advances towards him, but he brushed off the unwanted attention. Once outside, Tang Dao greeted Pierce, expressing his gratitude for their efforts.

They were soon joined by Gelbachio and his group, who had also arrived on the same flight. The two groups exchanged greetings before proceeding to the waiting troop carriers.

Tang Dao took the opportunity to inquire about the combat readiness of Pierce's team, as he needed to establish a subsidiary company within the Savior Company dedicated to military operations, security, and asset protection. He emphasized the importance of combat readiness and explained his vision for the new venture.

Pierce, after careful consideration, estimated that 17 members of his team were fit for front-line combat. Tang Dao acknowledged his assessment and shared his plan for the subsidiary company, which he intended to name "Umbrella Company." The company would handle various military operations and security assignments, and John would serve as the head of the Umbrella Company.

Tang Dao also handed Pierce a detailed document outlining the terms and conditions for the employees of the Umbrella Company, which included various ranks and benefits. The document specified three categories of employees: junior trainees, formal employees with two contract options, and reserve management personnel.

Pierce was deeply moved by the opportunity and responsibility bestowed upon him. He carefully reviewed the document and understood the significance of the different employment options and ranks.

The document outlined salary structures, pension plans, combat compensation, and training opportunities. Tang Dao aimed to establish a structured and efficient private military company that would attract and retain top-tier talent. The ranks and benefits were designed to motivate employees to excel in their roles.

Tang Dao emphasized the need for all employees to perform at their best and assured Pierce that there was no place for idlers in the Umbrella Company. Those who did not meet expectations would be relegated to trainee positions or phased out entirely.

As Pierce looked back at Tang Dao, he expressed both gratitude and determination. He acknowledged the pressure of the new role but assured Tang Dao that he would not disappoint him.

Tang Dao concluded the meeting by emphasizing that everyone would have to contribute to the success of the Umbrella Company, and he had no tolerance for underperformance.