At 2 p.m. the next afternoon, Baghdad's "Green Zone."
Song Heping's convoy arrived at the outermost layer, also the most heavily guarded "Assassin Gate" checkpoint.
The inspection process was cumbersome and rigorous.
Full car scan, all personnel getting off to undergo hand-held metal detector checks, repeated verification of documents, biometric identification comparison, registration of accompanying weapons with security seals…
Under the guidance of a young US Army Lieutenant, Song Heping finally arrived at the outer office of Major General Duke.
"Mr. Song, the General is expecting you."
The secretary was a competent civilian female officer in her forties who pushed open the heavy solid wood door to the inner office.
Major General Duke stood in front of a map, with his back to the door.
Upon hearing the door open, he turned around, revealing a smile.
"Song, welcome back. Was your trip smooth?"
