Alex Mercer’s P.O.V

The city in the daylight was mesmerizing, to say the least. New Arcadia revealed itself in all its splendor as the sun painted the spires and structures with a golden hue. I marveled at the gleaming towers that touched the heavens, a testament to human ingenuity and cosmic ambition.

I wandered through the bustling streets, a sea of diverse faces and vibrant energy. Merchants peddled their wares, and the aroma of exotic spices wafted through the air. The city's heartbeat pulsed with life, echoing the harmonious dance of its inhabitants.

As I strolled through the markets, the eclectic mix of cultures became evident. Alien merchants from distant planets bartered alongside locals, and the air buzzed with a symphony of languages. The unity forged within the cosmic embrace of New Arcadia was palpable.

As I continued my exploration, the city unfolded like a tapestry, each corner revealing a new facet of its character. Parks adorned with Etherial sculptures, arcane markets where mystical artifacts were traded, and libraries filled with ancient knowledge—all coexisted in a harmonious blend.

I couldn't help but think of Rusthaven, the place I had left behind. The journey from the outskirts to the heart of New Arcadia had been transformative, and the city offered a chance for rebirth. The dreams of becoming a citizen, joining the military, and escaping the confines of Rusthaven felt closer than ever.

The GCU (Golactic Coalation Unit) stood as a colossal edifice, its grandeur evident as I approached. The entrance was a gateway to a hive of activity, with a constant stream of people moving purposefully through its expansive halls. The air hummed with the energy of Etherial wielders, investigators, and various personnel dedicated to the city's safety.

Navigating through the bustling corridors, I marveled at the efficiency that characterized the Golactic Coalation's operations. Etherial Hunters clad in specialized uniforms, researchers engrossed in holographic displays, and officers coordinating missions—all played their roles in the intricate dance of cosmic order.

As I moved deeper into the heart of the Golactic Coalation Unit, the architectural marvels unfolded. Etherial sculptures adorned the central atrium, capturing the essence of the cosmic forces. The walls were lined with holographic displays, showcasing Etherial anomalies, historical events, and the various branches that made up the Galactic Coalition Unit.

With the building map in hand, I swiftly located the section marked 'New Recruitment' on one of the lower floors. The Galactic Coalition Unit, with its sprawling layout, held within its walls the various branches and departments dedicated to maintaining the delicate balance of Ether within New Arcadia.

Making my way through the labyrinthine corridors, I followed the directional signs until I reached the entrance of the New Recruitment application office. The atmosphere shifted from the bustling nerve center to a space where aspiring recruits sought to join the ranks of the Galactic Coalition Unit.

Upon entering, I was greeted by the sight of individuals filling out forms, engaging in interviews, and undergoing preliminary assessments. A sense of anticipation lingered in the air, as each person carried their own aspirations and motivations for seeking a role within the Golactic Coalation.

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Approaching the reception desk, I addressed the personnel on duty, expressing my intent to apply for recruitment. The officer provided me with the necessary forms and directed me to an available station where I could begin the application process.

Seated at the station, I meticulously filled out the required information, detailing my experiences, skills, and the reasons motivating my desire to join the Galactic Coalition Unit.

The more I seemed to write, though, the less I had to say. As I contemplated my skills, I acknowledged my resourcefulness and a somewhat business-oriented mindset. However, in terms of strength, what did I have to offer besides my physical training?

As I glanced around the room, the stark reality of my situation set in. The other applicants, armed with Etheral staffs, wands, and various weaponry, exuded a sense of readiness for the challenges that lay ahead. In contrast, I felt the weight of my own inadequacies – no combat training, no formal education in Etherial arts, just a resilience forged in the crucible of Rusthaven.

The form before me, now seemingly inadequate to capture the essence of my unconventional journey, reflected my internal dilemma. How could I, without the conventional skills and training of an awakened Etherial wielder, aspire to be part of an elite force like the Galactic Coalition?

A tinge of doubt crept into my thoughts, threatening to overshadow the determination that had carried me this far. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, a spark of resilience ignited. I might lack the conventional training, but I carried a unique set of experiences, an unconventional prowess born out of survival and resourcefulness.

As I handed in the revised application, a glimmer of hope flickered within me. The receptionist, a poised woman with a professional air, accepted the paper and glanced over its contents. "Great. It will take around a day to process the application."

Relieved, I couldn't help but voice the question that had been lingering in my mind. "I do have a question."

She looked up, offering a polite smile. "Yes, sir?"

"What are the chances the application is denied?" I inquired, my tone reflecting a mix of curiosity and concern.

She chuckled lightly, as if accustomed to such inquiries. "Applications are rarely denied. The system is designed to be inclusive. The only time you can be rejected from the military is if you fail the exams they hold after the application process."

Curiosity piqued, I pressed further. "Oh? When do I have to take these exams?"

"Once your application is processed, which will most likely be tomorrow, you will come to the GCU and enter the exam rooms," she explained. A sense of anticipation tinged her words. She then slid me a neatly printed note card detailing the examination room schedule. "You can come in at any one of these times and begin."

I took the card, examining the details. "Thank you, ma'am, for the assistance."

She chuckled once more, the sound lightening the atmosphere. "It's really no problem, sir. If you have any more questions or concerns, feel free to ask. Good luck with the exams!"

Acknowledging her words a nod I made my way out of the GCU and became my normal jog, but this time it was around New arcadias beautiful city. I got the occasionally furrowed looks because my clothes were tattered and beat and I no doubt looked like I lived on the street.

Acknowledging her words with a nod, I made my way out of the GCU and resumed my normal jog, but this time it was around New Arcadia's beautiful city. Despite the occasional furrowed looks I received due to my tattered and worn-out clothes, I pressed on, undoubtedly resembling someone who lived on the street.

Despite parting with an excess amount of Etherium at the city gate, I still had around a hundred Etherium left. I decided to spend it by treating myself to a new outfit and securing a room at an inn, preferably one that offered free meals. The prospect of a warm bed and a good meal spurred me forward, creating a sense of anticipation for the comfort that awaited.