I looked out into the morning city view from my room on the seventh floor, and I began getting dressed in my newly acquired clothes. The mesmerizing cityscape stretched before me, a sight I found both captivating and relaxing. The early rays of the sun painted the skyline with warm hues, casting long shadows across the bustling streets below. Coming from somewhere where such a view wasn't common, it was a tranquil experience to observe the intricate dance of people from above.
The distant hum of the city's activities reached my ears, creating a soothing melody of urban life. I took a moment to appreciate the details—the swift movements of pedestrians, the occasional flutter of ethereal vehicles, and the rhythmic flow of the city's pulse.
As I adjusted the unfamiliar but clean outfit, the promise of a fresh start lingered in the air. The cool fabric against my fingertips hinted at a newfound sense of readiness for whatever lay ahead.
Once dressed, I made my way downstairs, savoring the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the comforting buzz of morning conversations.
In the inn's cozy dining area, I found a suitable spot to enjoy a hearty breakfast. The aroma of coffee wafted through the air, complementing the assortment of delicacies laid out on the table. The innkeeper, recognizing me from the previous night, greeted me with a nod.
Sitting down, I indulged in the flavors of the well-prepared meal. The warm, wholesome food provided a welcome contrast to the struggles of canned food and stale bred.
Feeling rejuvenated after the satisfying breakfast, I made my way back to the GCU headquarters to undergo the necessary exams and evaluations. The bustling city greeted me with a renewed energy, and the GCU building loomed ahead, a beacon of purpose in the urban landscape.
Entering the GCU, I navigated the corridors familiarizing myself with the structure of the building. The interior was a blend of advanced technology and ethereal aesthetics, a testament to the organization's commitment to understanding and harnessing the cosmic forces that permeated the universe.
As I approached the examination area, a GCU official guided me through the process, joining a diverse group of individuals preparing for the entrance exams. The atmosphere buzzed with a mix of anticipation and nerves, a shared sentiment among the candidates. I noticed a deliberate separation between those over seventeen and their younger counterparts, a measure taken to level the playing field and assess everyone's true potential, as the official mentioned during the orientation. The commitment to fairness and equal opportunity underscored the significance of the exams in determining each candidate's suitability for the military service.
The GCU official gathered the group and announced that the first phase of the entrance exams would consist of a paper exam covering fundamental education—mathematics, reading comprehension, problem-solving, and more. The anticipation in the room heightened as the candidates prepared for the written test.
As we received the exam papers, I glanced at the questions, finding a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical applications. The test aimed to assess not only ethereal sensitivity and physical prowess but also the candidates' cognitive abilities and adaptability.
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The hum of pencils against paper filled the room as we delved into the questions, each one a gateway to the next chapter of our potential careers within the GCU. The questions covered a spectrum of subjects, requiring a comprehensive understanding of both the academic and practical aspects of ethereal studies.
As I progressed through the exam, memories of my self-imposed education in Rusthaven surfaced. The makeshift lessons and late-night readings had laid a foundation, but this test demanded a broader scope of knowledge. Despite the challenges, I tackled each question with determination, drawing upon the experiences that had shaped my journey.
The clock ticked away, marking the passage of time as candidates focused on demonstrating their proficiency. The room was a tapestry of concentration and diligence, each participant immersed in the pursuit of a future aligned with the cosmic forces that governed the universe.
With the completion of the written exam, the air in the room shifted. The next phases awaited, promising a more hands-on evaluation of our ethereal abilities and physical prowess. As the GCU officials collected the papers, the collective gaze of the candidates turned toward the challenges that lay ahead.
The GCU official led us through a thick hall that opened up into an indoor arena with numerous sections. The towering windows along the hall offered glimpses of diverse environments—an expanse of snow, a biome resembling a desert, another reminiscent of a swamp, and now, we were being guided towards a vast area that resembled a lush forest.
As we entered the forest biome section, the air shifted, carrying with it the earthy scent of vegetation. The arena was a simulated representation of the natural world, each biome carefully designed to challenge and evaluate our adaptability to different ethereal conditions.
The GCU official addressed us detailing the specifics of the upcoming examination. "Alright, everyone, listen up. The practical assessment of your ethereal abilities and combat skills will take place in the forest biome. Our arena employs cutting-edge holographic technology to create a dynamic and controlled environment for your evaluation. You'll be facing ethereal entities and various challenges conjured by the system, ensuring a thorough assessment of your capabilities. This setting allows us to gauge your adaptability and strategic thinking." The GCU official continued, providing additional details "Now, here's the deal. You'll be split up into two teams for the practical assessment, fostering collaboration and teamwork. The winning team will receive a special reward in the form of ethereal potions. These potions are designed to enhance your ethereal abilities temporarily, giving you an edge in future missions. It's an extra incentive to work together and showcase not just individual prowess, but also your ability to function as a team."
The GCU official gestured toward a sturdy rack adorned with multiple lightweight vests, each neatly hung and ready for use. "Alright, everyone, time to gear up. Each of you, grab a vest from the rack," he instructed, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming practical assessment.
As the candidates eagerly selected their vests, the official continued to explain the process. "Five minutes before the match begins, these vests will light up with a color that corresponds to the team you're on. It's your cue to gather with your teammates and strategize. Use that time wisely to get to know one another, understand your collective strengths and weaknesses."
I glanced around at the eight people who surrounded me. Due to the age separation, everyone was around my age or maybe a little older. Each candidate appeared intriguing in their own right, displaying a unique set of qualities. As I observed them, I realized that it would be a challenge to discern who to form a team with. The diversity among the candidates suggested a mix of experiences and skills, making the decision on which teammates to align with both intriguing and challenging.
"Now, I know some of you might be concerned about the fairness of the teams. Rest assured, the teams are meticulously determined and evenly matched based on the results of your written exams. This ensures that each team is on an even playing field in terms of intellect and skills. So, make the most of this opportunity, and may the best team prevail." The official's words resonated, setting the stage for an exciting and challenging assessment ahead.