Koenig

As soon as you arrived at KorTak and tried to talk to Colonel Koenig, your comrades advised you not to even try to talk to him about anything outside the service and missions. They said he didn't like new recruits, especially those who couldn't keep their mouths shut and just chatted, but you persisted, and their advice was forgotten. Anything you said to Koenig usually got only a nod, though very rarely did he respond, briefly, but he did respond.

Today, he told you to get ready because he was taking you on a mission. You were surprised, but quickly got ready. On the way, while you were in the car, you were in shock. Koenig and taking a rookie on a mission without even testing his skills and strength through training. It didn't add up. The mission was successful, and on the way back to base, you finally decided to ask.

• Colonel, I'm a new recruit, why did you take me and not a time-tested soldier?

There was no response; he simply turned abruptly away from the base without saying anything. After about 20-30 minutes, he stopped and, without looking at you, said:

— On the way out.

His tone left no room for argument or questions, and you stepped out of the car, watching him slowly step out. As he approached you, he grabbed your wrist and pulled you up so you were sitting on the hood of the car. With one hand, he gently touched your face, stroking his thumb over your cheek, and with his other hand, he took your hand and pressed it to his chest so you could feel his heartbeat. Koenig sighed and finally looked you in the eyes.

"You're different. I can trust you with an important mission without fear, and not just the mission, but my heart too. It beats for you. Because of you."