Chapter 1: Darul Khusus Candidate

Time 7th October 2061

Place Seremban, Malaysia

Chapter Darul Khusus Candidate

In the picturesque town of Seremban, Malaysia, a young Malaysian man stood tall and proud in his army officer's uniform. Ahmar Asada, a candidate from Darul Khusus, was about to experience a life-altering moment at the promotion ceremony. The air was filled with anticipation as his regiment commander approached him, a gleam of recognition in his eyes. With a swift motion, the commander replaced the rank on Ahmar's shoulder, promoting him from second lieutenant to lieutenant. Both men saluted each other, a silent exchange of gratitude and respect.

The promotion ceremony concluded, and the commissioned and non-commissioned officers gathered for a celebratory banquet. Ahmar, now a newly promoted officer, found himself immersed in lively conversations with his fellow seasoned officers. Laughter filled the air as they shared stories and reveled in their achievements. It was a moment of camaraderie and joy.

However, amidst the merriment, Ahmar's attention was abruptly diverted when an army officer approached his seat. Curiosity piqued, he turned to face the officer, inquiring about the reason for his summoning. The officer relayed a message from the regiment commander, informing Ahmar that he was to join him in the private dining room.

Grateful for the information, Ahmar rose from his seat and followed the officer to the designated location. Moments later, standing outside the private dining room, the officer signaled Ahmar to enter alone. Expressing his gratitude, Ahmar thanked the officer and stepped inside, his mind buzzing with curiosity.

As he entered the room, Ahmar found himself standing before a table where his regiment commander sat, accompanied by two unfamiliar faces. Saluting his superior, Ahmar was warmly invited to take a seat beside the commander. The commander introduced Ahmar to the two foreigners, who hailed from a private military company in Ukraine. The first was a tall British nobleman named Griffin Lyons, and the second was a short Austrian girl named Kolibri.

Ahmar extended his hand, shaking Griffin's, and bowed his head respectfully towards Kolibri in acknowledgment. The regiment commander proceeded to inform Griffin that Ahmar was a linguist reserve specialist proficient in Japanese, Arabic, and Russian, serving on Team Foxtrot. He commended Ahmar's behavior, obedience, and helpfulness within his team.

Intrigued by Ahmar's background, Griffin posed a question, asking what inspired him to become a soldier. Ahmar's response was simple yet profound; he revealed that he was merely continuing his family's proud heritage. Satisfied with the answer, Griffin requested Ahmar to introduce himself in any of the three languages. Choosing Japanese, Ahmar eloquently introduced himself, displaying his linguistic prowess.

Impressed, Kolibri decided to test Ahmar's understanding of Russian. She asked, "Do you understand me?" to which Ahmar confidently replied, "I understand you well." Their interaction flowed seamlessly, showcasing Ahmar's linguistic versatility. Not to be left out, Griffin addressed Ahmar in Arabic, inquiring about his well-being. Ahmar responded graciously, stating, "Praise to God, I am doing well."

Captivated by Ahmar's linguistic and interpersonal skills, Griffin began explaining his role and purpose. He introduced himself as the co-founder of a private military company called 'Griffin and Kryuger,' established in Ukraine. Working alongside his Belarusian friend, Berezovich Kryuger, Griffin sought to recruit individuals with exceptional talents to join their company.

Ahmar's curiosity piqued, and he asked about the size of Griffin's PMC, encompassing both staff and resources. Griffin revealed that the company consisted of ten human staff members and a hundred tactical dolls. Intrigued, Ahmar inquired about

his potential role within the organization. Griffin explained that Ahmar might work as an office clerk, handling administrative duties.

Despite his initial reluctance, Ahmar found himself intrigued by the proposition. However, he expressed his desire to remain in his current job. Undeterred, Griffin explained that joining the PMC would entail a military internship contract lasting nine years, after which Ahmar could return to his normal job. Seeking confirmation, Ahmar turned to his Brigadier General, Zulkarnain, who affirmed the validity of Griffin's words.

Feeling that he had little to lose and much to gain, Ahmar extended his hand in agreement, signaling his readiness to join the PMC. Griffin accepted the gesture, assuring Ahmar that he would cover the expenses for his departure and return tickets.

Two days later, on the 10th of October 2061, Ahmar found himself standing alongside Griffin and Kolibri at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2. Their boarding tickets in hand, Ahmar noticed a discrepancy—a difference between his ticket and theirs. While Ahmar's destination was Kyiv, Griffin and Kolibri were bound for Berlin.

Perplexed, Ahmar questioned the reason for their separation. Griffin explained that he had a private matter to attend to in Germany. Sensing Ahmar's concern, Griffin reassured him that they would meet again and even invited Ahmar to visit them in Berlin.

As the announcement for Ahmar's boarding was made, he bid farewell to Griffin and Kolibri, their paths diverging temporarily. With a sense of both excitement and apprehension, Ahmar proceeded through the immigration counter and boarded the plane, embarking on a new chapter of his life.