A secret operation had finally turned into a news conference with a touch of farce.
Thomas stood grim-faced next to Song Heping, who had his arm hooked around Thomas's neck, his expression like someone constipated for over ten days.
After the event ended, Thomas stomped back to the Chinook, clutching a photograph in which Song Heping stood next to him, one arm hooked around his neck and the other throwing a V-for-victory sign.
The photo was taken after Song Heping asked the reporters present if any of them had a Polaroid and requested those who did to take the picture.
Just before the camera's shutter clicked, Song Heping provocatively whispered in English into Thomas's ear, "Smile, don't look like your father just died."
"Motherfucker!"
Thomas violently threw the photo to the ground.
On the ground, watching the Chinook slowly lift off, the cook said, "Looks like we settled our score with this guy."
Grey Wolf interjected, "And with the Suicide Squad too."