The gunshot incident had shaken Jiang Han's resolve into something sharper, more defined. Protection wasn't just about reacting; it was about preparing. The Aegis Sentinel Corps was taking its first steps toward becoming an indomitable organisation, and this required leaders who could turn vision into execution.
Jiang Han sat at his desk, reviewing the roster of potential recruits, when Colonel Yusof stepped in, his expression a mix of pride and satisfaction.
"They're here," Yusof said, gesturing toward the door.
Moments later, Major Azlan and Captain Faizal Malik entered the room. Jiang Han stood to greet them, but his eyes lingered on Azlan—a man he had personally sought out just days earlier.
"Major Azlan," Jiang Han said with a genuine smile, extending his hand. "It's good to see you again. Welcome officially to the team."
Azlan clasped Jiang Han's hand firmly. "The pleasure's mine, Mr Jiang. After our previous conversation, I knew this was an opportunity worth pursuing. I'm ready to get to work."
Jiang Han nodded. "I had no doubt you'd bring that spirit with you. Let's formalise things today."
Turning to Captain Faizal Malik, Jiang Han assessed the younger man's confident stance and the glint of ingenuity in his eyes.
"Captain Faizal," Jiang Han greeted him. "I've heard a lot about your innovative approaches from Colonel Yusof. It's a pleasure to have you on board."
Faizal shook Jiang Han's hand, his smile widening. "I'm looking forward to it, Mr Jiang. It's not every day you get to help build something this ambitious from the ground up."
Major Azlan: The Brilliant Tactician - Leader of Training Division
Colonel Yusof cleared his throat, his voice carrying pride. "Major Azlan, as you know, is a decorated tactician with a reputation for excellence in training and strategy. His command over battlefield planning is second to none."
Azlan dipped his head slightly, his gaze serious. "It's all about discipline and readiness. Whether it's combat scenarios or simulated crises, preparation is key. I've spent my career instilling these principles, and I intend to bring that same rigour here."
Jiang Han smiled. "That's exactly why I sought you out, Major Azlan. The Training Division will set the foundation for everything the Aegis Sentinel Corps achieves. I'm confident you'll make it the gold standard."
Azlan's reply was crisp. "I'll deliver nothing less."
Captain Faizal Malik: The Innovator: Assistant Leader of Training Division
As the conversation shifted, Faizal stepped forward with a spark of enthusiasm. Colonel Yusof's introduction was equally glowing.
"Captain Faizal has a reputation for innovation in training. He's brought new methods to old systems, helping soldiers adapt to modern challenges without losing their core strengths."
Faizal shrugged modestly. "I believe training should be dynamic. The world changes rapidly, and so must we. Soldiers today need to master traditional techniques while embracing technology and unconventional strategies."
Jiang Han's interest deepened. "Your philosophy aligns perfectly with what we're building. I'm assigning you as Major Azlan's assistant leader. Your role will be to complement his experience with your ingenuity."
Faizal grinned. "It's an honour, Mr Jiang. I'll make sure this division becomes the pride of the organisation."
The three men, along with Colonel Yusof, spent the next few hours crafting a blueprint for the Training Division's operations. Azlan laid out a comprehensive regimen focused on physical conditioning, mental discipline, and combat readiness.
"Our recruits must be able to perform under pressure," Azlan explained. "That means honing their instincts and ensuring they can adapt to any situation."
Faizal added, "And we can enhance their adaptability through advanced simulations—virtual reality drills, situational analysis using drones, and other tech-driven methods. We can bridge the gap between traditional and modern training."
Jiang Han listened attentively, occasionally offering his thoughts. "What about psychological resilience? Many of our recruits will come from military backgrounds, but others won't. We need to ensure they can handle high-stress situations without cracking."
Azlan nodded. "We'll integrate stress-management protocols into the training—simulated pressure scenarios, time-sensitive tasks, and role-playing exercises."
Faizal chimed in, "And mentorship programmes. Pairing recruits with experienced trainers can make all the difference in building confidence and cohesion."
Jiang Han leaned back, satisfaction evident in his expression. "This division will be the cornerstone of the Aegis Sentinel Corps. I'll make sure you have the resources you need to succeed."
As the day's discussions wrapped up, Jiang Han turned to Colonel Yusof. "What's next on the agenda?"
Yusof smiled. "Tomorrow, you'll meet the leaders for the Bodyguard Division. They're just as promising."
Jiang Han chuckled softly, a rare moment of levity. "Let's hope they're ready to impress. We've set the bar high today."
As Azlan and Faizal left the room, Jiang Han felt a sense of accomplishment. The foundation was being laid, one stone at a time, and he was determined to build something that would stand the test of time.
As the evening sun cast its warm hues over the Aegis Sentinel Corps headquarters, Jiang Han sat back in his office chair, reflecting on the day's progress. The establishment of the Training Division was a monumental step forward, but it was only the beginning. Each decision he made now had the potential to ripple far into the future.
Colonel Yusof knocked gently on the door before entering. His steady demeanour betrayed a hint of pride.
"Major Azlan and Captain Faizal have already begun planning their first training schedules," Yusof reported. "They're wasting no time."
Jiang Han smiled. "That's what I expected from them. The Training Division is critical, and it feels good to know it's in such capable hands."
"They'll need the recruits soon," Yusof added. "With the security demands rising, we can't afford to delay."
Jiang Han had anticipated this. He had tasked his team weeks ago to begin vetting candidates for the Aegis Sentinel Corps. The initial pool was promising—retired commandos, martial artists, and specialists in various fields of security and intelligence.
"Let's finalise the shortlist," Jiang Han said decisively. "We'll arrange interviews for the top candidates. I want Major Azlan and Captain Faizal involved in the selection process."
Colonel Yusof nodded. "They'll appreciate that. Their insights will be invaluable."
As Yusof exited, Jiang Han turned his focus to the digital profiles on his screen. Each candidate had a story, a unique blend of skills and experiences that could strengthen the Corps. But Jiang Han knew it wasn't just about credentials—it was about character, resilience, and adaptability.
Just as Jiang Han was about to call it a night, his phone buzzed. It was an encrypted message from an unknown sender. Frowning, he opened the message.
"Mr Jiang, a potential threat has been identified. Details are too sensitive to share electronically. A meeting is advised. Time and place to follow."
Jiang Han's mind raced. He had dealt with cryptic warnings before, but this felt different. The sender's phrasing suggested they had access to classified information—information that might pertain to him or his growing operations.
Before he could ponder further, his phone buzzed again.
"Tomorrow, 9 PM. Crimson Pavilion. Come alone."
Jiang Han set the phone down, his thoughts already calculating the risks. Crimson Pavilion was a high-end restaurant known for its discretion, but it was also an ideal location for an ambush.
He leaned back, weighing his options. This was an invitation he couldn't ignore, but he wouldn't walk in unprepared.
The following day passed in a whirlwind of activity. Major Azlan and Captain Faizal began preliminary drills with a handful of early recruits, testing their fitness and adaptability. Meanwhile, Jiang Han quietly arranged for backup.
"Yusof," Jiang Han said, meeting the Colonel in a private corner of the headquarters. "I need you to keep an eye on the Crimson Pavilion tonight."
Yusof's brows furrowed. "Are you meeting someone there?"
Jiang Han nodded. "A potential informant, but I don't trust the situation. Position a team nearby—discreetly."
Yusof's expression darkened. "You should take bodyguards with you."
Jiang Han shook his head. "No. If this is a trap, I don't want to tip them off. But I want to know that backup is close if I need it."
Yusof hesitated, then nodded. "Understood. I'll handle it."
By the time Jiang Han arrived at the Crimson Pavilion, the city lights were twinkling against the night sky. Dressed in a sharp suit, he looked every bit the young entrepreneur he had become.
The hostess greeted him with a smile and escorted him to a private dining room. The room was dimly lit, with soft music playing in the background. A lone figure was already seated at the table—a man in his early 40s, with sharp features and an air of quiet authority.
"Mr Jiang," the man said, rising to his feet. "Thank you for coming."
Jiang Han extended a hand. "You have me at a disadvantage. Who do I have the pleasure of meeting?"
The man shook his hand firmly. "You can call me Adrian Yong."
The name struck a chord. Jiang Han had heard of Adrian Yong—a former elite intelligence officer who had exposed corruption within the military before disappearing from public view.
"I've heard of you," Jiang Han said, taking a seat. "Your reputation precedes you."
Adrian smirked faintly. "I could say the same about you, Mr Jiang. Your rise has been… intriguing."
Jiang Han leaned forward. "Let's cut to the chase. Why did you call me here?"
Adrian's expression grew serious. "Because your success has made you a target. There are people watching you—powerful people who don't appreciate newcomers disrupting their status quo."
Jiang Han's gaze didn't waver. "And you're offering to help me navigate this… turbulence?"
Adrian nodded. "For a price."
Jiang Han chuckled softly, though there was no humour in his eyes. "Everyone has a price. What's yours?"
Adrian's tone was measured. "I want to join your organisation. Specifically, I want to lead your intelligence operations."
The proposition took Jiang Han by surprise. Adrian Yong was a legend in his field, but his offer came with risks.
"You're asking for a lot," Jiang Han said. "Why should I trust you?"
Adrian met his gaze evenly. "Because I know things no one else does. I've seen the underbelly of this world—the corruption, the power plays, the betrayals. If you want to survive, you need someone who can see the moves before they happen."
Jiang Han studied Adrian carefully. The man exuded confidence, but there was also a hint of weariness—a man who had seen too much and carried the weight of it.
"I'll consider it," Jiang Han said finally. "But trust isn't given; it's earned."
Adrian nodded. "Fair enough. I'll be in touch."
As the meeting ended, Jiang Han couldn't shake the feeling that this was the beginning of something significant. Adrian Yong was a gamble, but he might just be the edge Jiang Han needed.
Back at headquarters, Jiang Han briefed Colonel Yusof on the encounter. Yusof listened intently, his expression unreadable.
"Adrian Yong…" Yusof mused. "If he's genuine, he could be a game-changer. But if he's not…"
Jiang Han nodded. "That's why we'll proceed cautiously. Keep an eye on him, but let's see what he brings to the table."
As Jiang Han retired for the night, his mind was already racing with possibilities. The pieces were falling into place, but the game was far from over.