Chosen, Not Enforced - By Shajaa Abdul Rahim

Written By: Shajaa Abdul Rahim

Category: Fiction

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Shajaa Abdul Rahim presents a compelling narrative with "Chosen, Not Enforced," an intriguing piece featured in the Fiction category of the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. This thought-provoking submission explores the profound theme of morality through the lens of futuristic technology, inviting readers into a world where ethical decisions are influenced by innovative advancements. Abdul Rahim's work is a testament to the rich tapestry of creativity showcased in this prestigious competition, which celebrates the power of words and imagination on a global scale.

About the Work

"Chosen, Not Enforced" delves into the complexities of morality and free will through the journey of Damien Othels, a high-ranking executive in a futuristic world. The story artfully examines how technology can enhance cognitive and emotional processes while posing ethical dilemmas that challenge personal integrity. Abdul Rahim's narrative style is richly descriptive, capturing the internal conflicts faced by the protagonist. The piece invites reflection on the nature of ethical behavior, prompting readers to consider the balance between technological enhancement and innate human choice.

Chosen, Not Enforced.

Original Submission by Shajaa Abdul Rahim

Chosen, Not Enforced

December 2060

Riverton, Ashford

Damien Othels, Executive Vice President of Aureon Logistics, lived a life people dreamed of. Yet something constantly disturbed him: the lack of something. What exactly, he didn't know. All he knew was that he had to work on himself, his impulse control, moral decisions, and emotional regulation. The insufficiency of these had cost him a lot in the past. Currently, on his way to Aureon Logistics, Damien scrolls through his holographic display popping up from his phone, catching up on the latest news. An advertisement catches his eyes and soon captures his heart. "This is exactly what I need," he thinks to himself. Veridian Biolabs, one of the leading neurotechnology organizations across the globe, launches VIREX 0.5, an invention that could potentially alter the understanding of morality. VIREX 0.5 is a capsule that enhances the cognitive and emotional processes that influence moral decision making. Exclusive launch sale. Limited buyers only. Contact 2309 2309 for more details.

---

Damien stares at the transparent glass case containing a pristine white capsule. Engraved on the glass surface in big bold letters is "VIREX 0.5". He looks at the pamphlet in his hand. Confused, hesitant, and hopeful, his mind is occupied with multiple trains of thought. He reads the pamphlet. The capsule does not magically induce a sense of strong morality. It only enhances the relevant cognitive and emotional processes. Desires and impulses will not be extinguished, but the behavioral decision-making ability will be improved. The consumer will still be able to exercise free will and commit immoral acts, but the tendency would be reduced in comparison to that of before consumption. Damien lets out a deep sigh, considering his options, weighing pros and cons. A few minutes later, he opens the glass case and consumes the capsule.

---

Veridian Biolabs Global Headquarters

"Dr. Carvel. The participant roster is ready to be reviewed." Alindrov takes the data drive from the assistant and plugs it into his HoloDisplay. He reviews the roster, turns off the holographic display, and turns to the panel of Regional Research Directors. "The purpose of this large-scale experiment is to reach a conclusion on whether morality can be induced by enhancing the relevant psychological processes. It involves a large sample, adult males and females, across multiple countries. You will each be assigned to oversee the progress in your regions. You will receive and review the reports of subjects in your assigned territories, and at the end of the experiment, I will be personally reviewing the final reports."

Day 1 - Trial 1 - Promise keeping

Damien is at lunch with his colleagues. Travis, one of his acquaintances, approaches him to ask for a favor.

"Damien, I need you, as the EVP, to help me with something."

"Sure thing, what's it?"

"I need you to forward a referral for my son for the Regional Operations Manager post."

Damien almost agreed when he remembered that he had already promised the same favor to his relative. Refusing Travis would strain their bond. But helping him would mean breaking a promise. Damien didn't hesitate before replying, "I'm so sorry mate, I have already promised someone else the same."

---

Veridian Biolabs Regional Headquarters, Ashford.

Dr. Julian, Regional Research Director of the Ashford branch, had just received the daily observational reports from the observation team.

"Mr. Julian, Trial one observational reports of the subjects are here. Actors have received their payment."

Day 2 – Trial 2 - Honesty and integrity

Aureon Logistics, Riverton

Elvis enters the washroom, takes out a luxury wrist interface from his pocket, places it on the counter, and hides inside a stall and peeks out.

Damien enters the washroom. He sees the EtherLink device on the counter. "Who in his right mind would leave an EtherLink unsupervised in a washroom?" He thinks. EtherLink is a luxury brand that manufactures and sells AI-integrated holographic wrist interfaces and is a top-selling brand. Damien reaches out for the device and picks it up. He stands there for a while looking at it. He shakes his head and tells himself, "I should be handing this over to the lost and found department." And he does, while Elvis follows him.

---

Veridian Biolabs Headquarters, Ashford

"Mr. Julian. Day 2 reports are in. All actors have been paid."

Day 3 – Trial 3 - Fidelity

Damien has just finished a business meeting at Crestfield and is now at a restaurant for dinner. An attractive woman approaches him. She introduces herself and begins small talk. She seems to recognize Damien though he has no clue who she is. After a brief exchange, she leans in, reaches for Damien's hand, and asks, "I'm not in a hurry to end the night yet. Would you like to continue this somewhere more private?" Damien stays silent, eyes lingering on her for a moment before looking away and withdrawing his hand. "I've got a lovely wife waiting for me back home." He gets up and leaves.

Veridian Biolabs Headquarters, Ashford

"Reports on trial 3, Mr. Julian. Actors' payments have been settled."

Day 4 – Trial 4 - Corruption resistance

Damien is at a high-end cafe with a wealthy private investor. After the drinks, the investor puts forth a demand, "Mr. Othels, I have a favor to ask of you regarding my shipments."

"And that is?"

"I understand that regulations exist for a reason, but certain procedures cause unnecessary delays, which I can't afford right now."

"What exactly are you suggesting?"

"I need you to help bypass the shipment inspection. No one has to know. You will be compensated for far beyond the usual standard."

A spark of greed flickers inside Damien. He thinks to himself, 'Hefty compensation from a wealthy individual. But accepting will mean violating company policies. No one would even know." Damien almost extends his hand for a handshake but withdraws abruptly.

"I'm sorry. I will have to decline." Damien says.

Veridian Biolabs Headquarters, Ashford.

"Trial 4 reports are here."

Day 5 - Trial 5 - Compassion

Becoming the CEO of a company under the Summit Group of Industries, the parent company of Aureon Logistics, has been Damien's greatest aspiration since the start of his career. And today was the day he was going to achieve it. Summit Group of Industries holds an award ceremony every 15 years; the winners of the Executive Excellence Award replace the CEOs of their respective subsidiary companies. And Damien was the leading candidate for Aureon Logistics. He's currently on his way, when he spots a pregnant woman on the roadside, in distress holding her baby bump, with a painful expression. Since it's a highway, there are no stationary people around, just vehicles. He looks at the time and steps out. The woman looks very pitiful. Damien gets closer and asks her if she needs any help.

"I need to go to the hospital. Could you call me an ambulance? My phone's dead." She says through gritted teeth.

Damien dials the emergency services multiple times but fails due to poor connection. "Darn, the network's down it seems. Is there anything else I can do for you mam?"

The woman whines and says, "Could you please drive me to the hospital? The ride and the formalities will take around one and a half hours. Please sir. My husband is out of town. I have nobody to help me."

'One and a half hours? I would miss the award ceremony then. If I miss it, it gets passed on to the next leading candidate. No, this is my dream. I can't miss this. But the woman, I can't leave her like this. What do I do now?' Damien thinks to himself.

Few Days Later

Veridian Biolabs Global Headquarters

Alindrov had just reviewed the final reports of the experiment. He lets out a deep sigh and stares out the window. Less than half of the sample had passed all five trials and achieved the permanent activation of VIREX 0.5. He thinks to himself, 'Turns out I was wrong the whole time. Morality can only be practiced by choice, not enforcement.'

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026, hosted by Hashtag Kalakar, is a distinguished event that celebrates the diverse voices of writers worldwide. This competition provides a platform for poets and storytellers to share their unique perspectives and craft. With a focus on creativity, the event highlights the power of written expression in capturing the human experience, offering participants the opportunity to engage with a global audience through their compelling narratives.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Shajaa Abdul Rahim for sharing "Chosen, Not Enforced" with us. Your thought-provoking exploration of morality and choice adds depth to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Thank you for contributing your voice to this creative celebration, enriching the tapestry of stories that inspire and challenge us all.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.