Besides a small-scale sandstorm, the remaining journey was smooth without any unexpected events.
The three of them took turns driving. Even Jiang Chen, who did not own a car, had a driver's license.
After Robert discussed with Nick and Jiang Chen about detouring around Tikrit since it was likely IS territory, they decided to follow Tharthar Lake and head northeast through Samarra before arriving in Baghdad. This was their plan to avoid all possible high-activity areas.
At night, the four of them stayed in the car. The sound of fighter jets screeching above them made the whole evening a tense affair. Despite that, no bombs dropped down thanks to the black pen that clearly served its purpose.
