A month later, the sun hung low in the sky as I stood at the outskirts of a rebuilt village in Mali a few kilometers away from the Niger river, observing the bustling activity that now filled the once war-torn streets. The signs of progress were evident everywhere: houses with freshly painted walls, children playing and laughing, and merchants proudly displaying their wares. It was a testament to the resilience and determination of the people who had endured the reign of terror imposed by the Saharan Falcons.
With a sense of satisfaction, I turned to the team of mercenaries who were also looking around and had poured sweat and tears in the mission. Their faces were weary but filled with a newfound hope. It was time to bid farewell to the armies who had supported us along the way and embark on our next objective.