In the temporary command post in the western outskirts of Kirkuk, originally transformed from an oil company building, a sense of oppressive storm escalation lingered.
Deep in the command center, the old satellite television screen served as the sole light source indoors, flashing unstable blue-white light that cast upon a few rigid-faced individuals.
Barzani stood dumbfounded before the screen.
On television, the weary face of Old Masood was delivering a speech.
