Felipe’s consciousness slowly returned as he became aware of his surroundings. The bright white void he had entered was gone, replaced by a smaller room bathed in the soft glow of ambient lights. He blinked several times, adjusting to the change in illumination. Felipe realized he was sitting in a utilitarian chair in front of a sleek desk. The walls around him were matte black and bare. Across from him sat an imposing figure - an insectoid alien with muted green and blue exoskeleton and dull, gemstone-like eyes. Alien, Felipe thought. Oh boy, here we go.

Ch’th-zee was studying an expansive holographic display that hovered in the air above his desk. Felipe could make out streams of data and charts analyzing some kind of market information. This was clearly a workspace built for business and commerce. As Felipe shifted in his seat, Ch’th-zee’s antennae twitched and the Zentari turned his attention to the human.

“Greetings, Felipe G. Marquez. Name is Ch’th-zee.” His voice was a raspy clicking sound that to Felipe, sounded like a sophisticated castilian Spanish. “Thrilled you’re here in Zentari Dominion’s heart. Me? Senior Trade Advisor. Abrupt arrival, yes, but we assure you, it’s for the best. Exciting times ahead!”

Felipe nodded, still getting his bearings. “So this is really happening? I’m in another part of the galaxy, about to start some kind of trading program?”

Ch’th-zee inclined his head. “Indeed, as a new Intergalactic Trader, think of the possibilities! Joining the vast Universal economy, connecting worlds. So much to learn – imagine the rewards, Felipe! Not just for you, for your entire planet.”

He gestured to the holographic display. “Perfect timing, Felipe! Look here – record h’vassx harvest on the horizon, shifting exchange rates across seven sectors. Opportunities like this? Rare, lucrative. You’re in the right place at the right time!”

Felipe stared blankly, completely lost. But he reminded himself he had chosen this path. Leaving behind everything he knew on Earth, and hopefully surviving this ‘integration.’

Ch’th-zee continued, “Risks? Sure, they exist. Wat’s life without little adventure, right? For those ready to adapt and learn, sky’s not limit – it’s just the beginning. Endless possibilities, Felipe!” He felt the creature’s multifaceted eyes appraising him from head to toe. “Choice is all yours, no pressure. Head back to Earth, or step up to a thrilling Trader’s path. But remember, opting out now means missing out on the big picture – being part of something groundbreaking. Your call, Felipe.”

Felipe took a deep breath. This was the moment. He could go back to his aimless existence on Earth, or take a leap into the unknown. An image of Jess, the girl he loved but could never seem to please, flashed through his mind. Then he saw Alan and the rest of his family, supportive but constantly worried for his future. He exhaled.

“I’m ready for this,” Felipe said firmly. “I know Earth will never be the same. I don’t want to be left behind. I want to stay here and become an…Intergalactic Trader.”

Ch’th-zee clicked his mandibles together, the equivalent of a smile. “Wise decision indeed! We’ve got all the resources, training, you name it, to ensure your success. Won’t be walk in the park, hey, the best things in life rarely are, right? Any last inquiries before we progress further?” asked Ch’th-zee.

Felipe shook his head. “I’m good. Let's do this.”

Ch’th-zee touched the desk console and a video file opened, hovering in the air. A narrator began speaking, the translator converting it to Spanish for Felipe’s benefit.

SYSTEM VIDEO CLIP: INTERGALACTIC TRADER INITIATIVE - INITIAL BRIEFING

The clip began, showcasing a lively interstellar bazaar, with beings of various species engaged in trade. The camera zoomed out to reveal a network of trade routes connecting star systems in a web of commerce.

Greetings Intergalactic Trader Candidate,

By viewing this message, you have aligned your path with the Intergalactic Trader Initiative under directive [Universal Council Trade Mandate 34-C]. Your ambition to thrive within the beating heart of the universe's trade and commerce is pivotal.

This selective program is tailored to develop your innate ability to navigate the complex interstellar market. You shall start with an intensive tutorial, designed and managed by the Universal Council's most esteemed economic strategists.

Ch’th-zee, enthusiastically gestured towards the display.

Upon successful completion, you will gain privileged access to:

[Universal Council Trade Registry]: A dynamic ledger of all Traders, cataloging trade history, reputation, and influence.

[Universal Council Commodity Index]: A live feed of commodity prices, trends, and forecasts across the universe.

[Universal Council Trade Routes]: Detailed maps and security statuses of established trade lanes.

Adherence to the [Intergalactic Trader Conduct Code 77-V] is compulsory to maintain the integrity of the universal market.

Your choice heralds the start of a prosperous venture. The universe’s markets await your acumen and initiative. Trade wisely, Intergalactic Trader.

The video ended with a lot of fanfare and abruptly jumped onto another scene.

Greetings Initiate, and welcome to the Intergalactic Trader Initiative, a program designed to integrate ambitious minds into the fabric of our Universal economy...

Felipe sat transfixed as the video outlined the origins of the program, notable graduates, available career paths, and the philosophy behind the Zentari’s desire to include diverse species. This was really happening. He was at the beginning of a whole new life.

When the video ended, Ch’th-zee leaned forward. “Do you seek clarification on the introductory content?” Ch'th-zee inquired, tilting his head slightly.

You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

“I’ve got it. What's next? The tutorial?” Felipe responded.

“Good. Think of it fifteen-rotation, all-inclusive training extravaganza. Each rotation, solar year your time. We’re talking top-notch simulations, step-by-step curriculum. You start novice, end up master. Quite journey!”

He had a strange feeling that this Zentari guy was trying very hard to convince him, almost as if delivering a sales pitch. But hey, he was already here; there was no backing out anyway.

He exhaled heavily, his hands shook, and his leg bobbed up and down as the Zentari outlined the training process. He would first have to complete a basic resource gathering course, and then the first simulations would focus on fundamentals - accounting, digital networks, supply-demand dynamics. Then came lessons in niche fields like manufacturing pipelines and bulk transport. The final levels involved policy debates, ethics simulations, and entertainment modules to keep the mind sharp.

It was a lot to take in. But Felipe reminded himself he had always been a quick learner. He had picked up new salsa moves in days back in college, and mastered Alan’s favorite video games rapidly just through observation. If he applied that adaptive spirit here, he could succeed.

Ch’th-zee concluded his overview and peered curiously at Felipe. “Alright, quick check on any goodies you brought – never know what hidden gems you’ve got! Might be treasure in there, right? Anything declare, Felipe?”

Felipe patted his pockets. “I didn’t bring much. Only…” he pulled out his smartphone. “I have this device. It contains a lot of data on Earth history, culture, and science.”

Ch’th-zee extended a slender hand to accept the phone. He placed it on a scanner built into his desk. Felipe watched nervously as streams of data flowed from the phone into Ch’th-zee’s display. After a few moments, the Zentari nodded.

“Ah, bit old-school for us, hey, cultural data? That’s gold in some markets. We’ll jazz it up, universal format all. Here’s a little starter credit for you – pick your first trades. Make ‘em count!”

Felipe smiled eagerly. This was really happening! He felt his heart wanting to come out of his mouth as Ch’th-zee transferred one hundred universal credits to his account and gestured to the expansive market display. “Choose wisely,” the Zentari advised. “They’re like your opening act. Set tone for your grand Trader journey. Exciting, right?”

Felipe stepped toward the desk display, gazing in wonder at the dizzying selection of commodities, technologies, entertainment media, services, and who knew what else. It was overwhelming. What was he supposed to pick? He had no idea what anything was. So he went with his gut.

“I’ll take 20 credits of larillian ore, 10 credits of Hraxian textiles, and 5 credits of entertainment from Quadrant 4,” Felipe said decisively. He also selected a multi-functional trade gadget that reminded him of the smartphones back on Earth.

Ch’th-zee raised his antennae. “Interesting choices for a newcomer. Larillian ore is volatile but can yield high returns. Very well, your selections are locked in.”

He waved a slender hand and Felipe’s new assets materialized neatly before him in secure containers. He picked them up carefully, still marveling at this advanced technology.

“That concludes orientation,” Ch’th-zee said formally. “You’re on your path now, Felipe. Old life? History. Ahead? Challenges, sure, thrilling ones. Stick to the training, focus on those deals, watch as you rise – reputation, wealth, works!”

Felipe met the Zentari’s gaze. “Thank you for this opportunity,” he said sincerely. “I won’t let you down.”

Ch’th-zee inclined his head. “Your potential? Shining bright, Felipe! Discipline, patience, you’ll soar. But hey, don’t forget – fortune loves a bold spirit. Seize those chances when they knock. Here’s to profitable trades, each better than last!”

Felipe smiled. And his mind drifted off to another thought. He wanted to know how Alan had been doing with all of this.

When it was time to go, his vision blurred momentarily and a status display popped up, showing health metrics, stamina, strange psychic resources like “mana”, along with other stats he didn’t recognize yet.

STATUS

Felipe G. Marquez

Race: Human

Class: None

Health: 70/70

Stamina: 40/40

Mana: 90/90

STATS

Charisma: 7

Endurance: 4

Ingenuity: 8

Perception: 6

Intelligence: 9

Luck: 5

“Whoa,” Felipe muttered. This is like a video game. But he was ready for it.

The display shifted, presenting three pathways: [Merchant], [Artisan], and [Diplomat]. “As a new Trader, you must align yourself to one of these archetypes,” Ch’th-zee explained. “They will shape your skills, resources, and relationships.”

Title: [Intergalactic Trader Candidate]

An echo resounded through the void:

The cosmic marketplace is vast and requires discernment. Choose your approach:

Path of the Merchant: Excel in buying, selling, and understanding market forces to maximize profit.

Path of the Artisan: Focus on crafting and enhancing items of value, catering to the diverse needs of the universe.

Path of the Diplomat: Build networks and forge alliances, navigate politics, and trade agreements.

Felipe knew his strengths and immediately felt drawn to one path over the others.

Upon confirmation of your path, your essence will align with the chosen trajectory, equipping you with the foundational skills necessary to flourish.

Do you resolve to embrace the Path of the Artisan where creativity and dedication determine the flow of wealth?

Yes/No?

“Absolutely, yes.”

You have selected the heart of commerce. Alignment commencing...

He liked making things with his hands - forging and weaving came naturally to him. As his choice locked in, he felt his essence link with the Artisan way. Energy flowed through him and his mind opened to new possibilities.

Then, without warning, new power awakened within Felipe. Knowledge of materials near and far. Instincts for patterns and techniques. An intrinsic feel for supply chains and profit margins. His vision was now a Trader’s vision.

His mind was barely making sense of what had happened when another message appeared before him…

Benefit gained! [Artisan's Touch] - Enhance your ability to imbue crafted items with unique properties and increased value.

Skill acquired! [Material Mastery] - Gain a deep understanding of various materials, allowing for more efficient and higher quality crafting.

Identification confirmed! [Crafting Initiate] - Your essence is now intertwined with the art of creation, resonating with the diverse needs of the universe's many inhabitants.

“Whoa,” Felipe repeated under his breath. His path was set. He was now a [Crafting Initiate] ready to undertake the trials ahead. This was his destiny. As Ch’th-zee observed approvingly, Felipe’s newly aligned life force resonated with the pulse of trade itself. The transformation had begun. He was no longer merely Felipe - his journey as an Intergalactic Trader started now.

The space around Felipe blurred as his fingers, his hands, his feet and his body began to materialize again.