Arc 1 : Days Before The Day Of Nightmare Chapter 2: The Crowning Glory - Part 1

“My name is Ayaan Ranade.”

It was a simple statement, yet it held so much weight. The name echoed in the quiet of his mind. Ayaan had never been one to flaunt his achievements, but today, he couldn’t deny the significance of the moment. This was who he was now—Ayaan Ranade, a name that had been molded and sharpened over years of hardship, training, and sacrifice.

Ayaan wasn’t just a soldier; he was a sniper. A title earned through relentless dedication, not through luck or chance. His skills with a sniper rifle were unrivaled. From the moment he had picked up his first rifle, he knew it wasn’t just about shooting targets—it was about mastering the art of patience, precision, and unseen strength. Every sniper shot was a puzzle, one that required the perfect alignment of skill, timing, and the environment.

Today, standing before the mirror in his training uniform, he could feel the weight of the future ahead. There would be many more challenges, many more targets, and many more decisions to make. But Ayaan knew one thing: he was ready for whatever came next.

Ayaan adjusted the collar of his uniform, the fabric crisp and ceremonial, as he walked alongside Dev toward the venue. The grandeur of the hall was evident in the polished floors and the distant murmur of voices gathering inside. Dev, his closest friend during training, nudged him with a grin. “Looks like you’re ready to soak up all the glory, Ayaan.” Ayaan chuckled but remained silent, his focus ahead as they approached the entrance.

Just as they stepped inside, a familiar voice pierced through the air, laced with sarcasm. “Look who decided to show up—the sniper prodigy and his loyal sidekick.” It was Rohit, Ayaan’s long-standing rival. He stood near the entrance, arms crossed, his smirk unwavering. “Tell me, Ayaan, how does it feel to have a reputation that’s bigger than your actual skills?” Dev’s jaw tightened, but Ayaan remained calm, offering only a curt glance before walking past.

As Ayaan passed him, Rohit stepped closer, leaning in to whisper into Ayaan’s ear. “I was selected for Project M.” he said, his voice low and smug. Ayaan paused for a moment, his expression unchanging, before continuing forward. Dev shot Rohit an irritated glare, but Ayaan’s calm demeanor remained unbroken, silently resolving to let his actions speak for themselves.

Before Rohit could add more fuel to the fire, the voice of Captain Rathore boomed from the stage, silencing the room instantly. “Ladies and gentlemen, take your seats. The award ceremony is about to begin.” The commanding presence of Rathore left no room for arguments, and even Rohit fell silent, though his gaze lingered on Ayaan with a competitive edge. Ayaan and Dev quickly found their seats, the tension fading as the ceremony began in earnest.

The stage lights illuminated Rathore as he began his speech, his authoritative tone resonating throughout the hall. “Today, we honor those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, discipline, and skill during their training. You are the future protectors of this nation, and it is a privilege to witness your growth.” His gaze swept over the audience before he continued, “And now, it is my honor to introduce the leader of our nation, someone who has always valued and supported the bravery of individuals like yourselves.

Please welcome the President of the Country to the stage.”

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***