Two days later, Bayji Municipal Building, top-floor command center.
Song Heping stood in front of the large floor-to-ceiling windows, overlooking the city that had just been through the ravages of war.
The chimneys of the Bayji Refinery were smoking again. Though the output was only a third of pre-war levels, it symbolized the reconstruction of order.
On the streets, militias of the 'Liberation Forces' patrolled, assisting residents in clearing debris and distributing relief supplies.
"Sir, an urgent communication from Commander Samir." The voice of the on-duty communications officer came from behind.
Song Heping turned around and walked to the communications console.
On the screen appeared Samir's face, the background was the operations room of the Mosul Command Center.
"Boss, there's new intelligence from the Hulmatu direction."
