The Black Lotus’ Secret

Jakarta – Subianto’s Private Office. Subianto poured himself a glass of aged Javanese whiskey, staring at an old military photo on his desk. A younger version of himself stood in the center—surrounded by the Commando Elite Group. Among the faces, one stood out.

Shen Ai.

A soft knock at the door.

Subianto, please reply without turning.

“Enter."

Shen Ai stepped inside, her movements silent as a shadow. The room smelled of leather, smoke, and history.

“You’re drinking again. That means you’re thinking about the past."

Subianto chuckled, taking a sip.

“Aren’t we all?"

A tense silence. Then—

Shen Ai asked him with a low voice.

“Do you regret it?"

Subianto without hesitation replied. “

“Every damn day."

(Jakarta – May 1998)

The streets burned. Smoke choked the air. The sounds of riots, gunfire, and screams echoed through the capital.