Chapter 1760 - 1362: The Art of the Deal (Part 2)

Old Masood nodded, speaking with a clear tone of flattery:

"Mr. Song, the smooth progression of Samir's reformation is largely thanks to you. Friends in the parliament are well aware that without your decisive victory on the battlefield, these political changes would be impossible."

He paused, observing Song Heping's reaction before continuing:

"Now that we're here... what are your thoughts and suggestions on the forthcoming reform of our Kurdish Army? I know you're soon to formally become our Special Security Advisor, and I'd like to hear your insights."

Song Heping sighed inwardly.

He understood Old Masood's intentions.

This Kurdish leader was simply taking the opportunity to have him, as the soon-to-be advisor, publicly endorse the Kurdish Army's reforms and to gauge his willingness to get deeply involved.

The annual fee of twenty million US Dollars buys not only his personal wisdom but also the "Musician" Defense Company's renowned military credibility.

He took off one of the noise-canceling headphones, and the engine's roar immediately became clear.

Before speaking, he intentionally waited longer than usual, allowing everyone to hear the noisy background, making his response seem more deliberative.

"You're too kind." Song Heping's voice was calm, his wording cautious, "The reformation of General Samir's troops is a result of negotiations between the Baghdad Government and the Kurdish Autonomous Region, and I, as an outsider, merely provided necessary security assistance."

He looked at the expectant gaze of Old Masood on the screen, knowing he had to offer something.

After all, the other party had just displayed the progress of Samir's reformation and was about to pay an annual consultation fee of twenty million US Dollars.

Having taken their benefits, he couldn't just take it for nothing, right?

"As for the reform of the Kurdish Army..." Song Heping carefully chose his words, "I believe several principles are worth considering."

He deliberately used "worth considering" instead of "suggestions," maintaining a sense of distance.

"First, the treatment of prisoners needs to be swift and transparent. This is crucial for stabilizing the military and civilian mind. Clearly distinguishing perpetrators, key players, and those coerced, with the process open and outcomes convincing."

"Second, the reorganization of the troops should emphasize balance, not just a simple disruption and reshuffle. Consider using existing reliable troops as the backbone, absorbing vetted prisoners and new members to form a new core force."

"Third, security cleansing should be targeted, aiming to root out Barzani's political legacy, rather than broadening the scope. Externally, proactive communication is needed to avoid misjudgment by all parties."

He spoke succinctly, each point only a principle statement, without any specific operational plans.

This fulfilled the advisor's obligation to "provide suggestions," while avoiding excessive involvement in the specific affairs of the Kurdish people.

Old Masood slowly nodded, showing a satisfied expression.

What he wanted was for Song Heping to publicly speak these words.

With this principle endorsement from the high-ranking advisor who had just quelled the rebellion, he would have the confidence to push for military reform and internal cleansing.

"Mr. Song expressed it well." Old Masood said, then turned to Tor Khan, "Tor Khan, quickly establish a detailed implementation plan according to the principles proposed by Mr. Song."

Lastly, he looked at Song Heping, his gaze earnest and complex:

"Mr. Song, you deserve great credit for this victory. I've already instructed Saeed to take the contract to Baghdad and wait for you. I hope you accept my invitation to become the Special Security Advisor to the Kurdish Autonomous Region Government. Kurdistan's stability and future need your support and guidance."

Song Heping looked at the elderly man's expectant eyes on the screen, knowing clearly: Old Masood needed not his direct involvement in reorganizing the army or clearing officials, but the mere fact of "Song Heping assuming the role of Kurdish Autonomous Region Special Security Advisor."

This was tantamount to announcing to everyone that the Kurdish people's security affairs had the military backing of the "Musician" company, with the Eastern man who defeated Barzani in two days as support.

As for the annual twenty million US Dollars consultation fee, it simply purchased the usage rights of his name and the card that can be played when necessary.

"I accept the invitation," Song Heping finally said, "but the advisory role is sufficient; I do not need a military rank or official position."

"That's unprecedented," Tor Khan couldn't help but say, "Considering your contributions and influence on the army, you should at least be granted the honorary rank of Lieutenant General. Moreover, without a corresponding military rank, the Special Security Advisor position will be inconvenient in many situations..."

"Rules are made by people." Song Heping said lightly, "I do not need that title to do what needs to be done. As for whether it is convenient or not... Deputy Minister Tor Khan, in Illiguo, true convenience is not about the stars on your epaulettes, but others knowing who stands behind you."

This statement was calm but bore significant weight.

There was a brief silence in the video conference.

Old Masood broke the silence, "Then we'll do as Mr. Song wishes. Advisor it is. But I'll clarify the relevant authority and guarantees in the contract. Saeed will discuss details with you."

The meeting continued for another twenty minutes, briefly discussing the schedule for prisoner transfers and Kirkuk defense handover.

Song Heping mostly just listened, occasionally responding briefly when directly asked.

By the end, it was already eight o'clock in the evening, completely dark outside.

After all video connections were severed, the tablet screen dimmed, reflecting Song Heping's own face.