Reuben's blog

“I’m hit! I’m hit!”

Near Goka Falls

“Want a Kit-Kat?” This was Yuri, a Russian reporter still chasing the stories here. We are two of a small handful of the press that haven’t fled the country. I passed on the chocolate and aimed my camera out the passenger window catching some shots of the zebra in the distance.

Yuri was driving us to Goka Falls, a tall majestic waterfall. We were scheduled to meet with a local commander of the APR. I’m not sure what we expected to find. For me, I’m always searching for the personal angle. Who are these people who can do such horrible things? What does it take to choose the life of a mercenary? In fact, is it even a choice for all of them?

Goka Falls sits high atop a large cliff. A narrow winding road leads up to the APR’s complex beside the head of the Falls. We arrived at the base of the road and were waved through the checkpoint. We drove on up, Yuri carefully navigating the twists and turns. The foliage was thick with trees and vines. We could barely see the sky beyond.

Then out of nowhere: POP POP POP POP!

An assassin among us

Near Port Selao

The Jackal is gone. I was scheduled to meet him yesterday. When I arrived at the café, he wasn’t there.  In the past, he’d always arrived before me.  I doubt I’ll hear from him again.

A shocking rumour

Near Port Selao

Two different sources, both reliable, passed on a rumour. An assassin has been sent, and he’s after the Jackal. Neither of my sources had much information. It’s unclear whether this assassin has entered the country already. When he does come, he’ll most likely have to make the pass through the mountains to the West, the only unprotected passage. All borders are being monitored by the AU. They’re being particularly vigilant with anyone whom they suspect may be a mercenary.