As I strolled toward the dining hall, my mind churned with contemplation about the impending challenges. A surge of determination coursed through me, the burning desire to ascend beyond mediocrity intensifying. The Golactic Coalation, I realized, demanded more than mere talent; it required resilience, strategic acumen, and a willingness to navigate the intricate web of challenges.

Having promised Jake that I'd join him at the dining hall around one, I glanced at the time and noted it was on the cusp of the designated hour. Stepping into the bustling dining area, a cacophony of inaudible chatter enveloped me. The diverse array of students, representing various backgrounds and affiliations, clustered in animated groups, creating a vibrant tableau of the Golactic Coalation community.

I navigated the array of food options, meticulously selecting a balanced assortment of vegetables, fruits, vitamins, fats, and proteins to fuel my body. Laden with my tray, I surveyed the crowded hall, searching for Jake amidst the sea of faces.

Spotting him waving me down, I made my way to the table he had secured for us. As I settled into the seat, he greeted me with a question that hung in the air like a catalyst for reflection.

"So, how was the first day?" Jake inquired, his eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and camaraderie.

Taking a moment to savor a bite of my food, I pondered Jake's question. "I'd say I learned a lot more than I expected, not because of the overload of teaching, but because of my ignorance to it all?"

Jake tilted his head at my vague answer. "What do you mean?"

"Well, the Golactic Coalation system and the Ether hierarchy. It's going to be much harder for me to rise in the ranks than I thought it would be."

Jake looked at me as if I was a complete dumbass. "You just learned about those things? Have you been living under a rock or what, dude?"

"It seemed like it, doesn't it," I said as I took a sip of water.

"Considering your background, it only makes sense," Jake said as he took a bite of his food, "If I were you, I would look into a lot of history books. More on the Golactic Coalation's allies, but also enemies. Learn the big family names and watch what you say around them when you encounter them. Just stay on your toes around here."

I nodded my head, deciding to take heed of his words.

"Oh yeah, Jake," I began, "What's your attunement percentage?"

He had a big grin on his face as he showed his uniform's holographic display. "I've just reached 6%, which I'm really proud of." He glanced at me, "What about you?"

I let out a half-hearted sigh, "1%."

Jake sort of cringed, "Geez, man, that means you don't even have an ether core yet. How the hell did you even get enrolled here?"

"Luck, I guess," I said.

"Well, I don't feel any crazy rampaging of man when I'm around you, so I guess you've been controlling it well. I'd get started on meditation A.S.A.P. if I were you."

I asked Jake another question, "Do you have any martial or ether techniques you're training in?"

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"Yeah, it's called Earth Sway. An Etheric art of the Awakened One-star rank. Although I haven't achieved that status, I will once I master it."

"I see," I said. I looked up the Etheric art in the Golactic Coalation system, and it popped up.

The Earth Sway, an Etheric art of the Awakened One-star rank, manifested as a foundational spell with humble yet potent effects. As described in the Golactic Coalation system, it was an introductory technique that embodied the essence of Earth affinity. When successfully executed, it allowed the practitioner to manipulate and control the earth element within a small radius.

In practice, the Earth Sway would enable Jake to influence the ground beneath his feet, shaping it to his will. Whether forming makeshift barriers, creating subtle disturbances in the terrain, or enhancing his defensive capabilities, this low-ranked spell served as a stepping stone toward mastering the intricacies of Earth affinity. While its immediate impact might be modest, the potential for growth and refinement was evident, promising versatility as Jake advanced in his training.

Intrigued by the memory of Zane's formidable flaming fists during the exams, I navigated to the search bar of the Golactic Coalation's system, typing in the key words "flaming fists." As anticipated, a list of spells and martial arts related to fire affinity appeared, but one entry caught my attention.

Ember Jabs, a flame affinity martial art of Awakened Rank one star, stood out prominently. I looked at its description. The technique involved conjuring and manipulating flames around the user's fists, infusing each jab with the scorching power of fire. The practitioner could deliver rapid and precise punches, each strike leaving behind trails of flickering embers. The flames not only added a devastating aspect to the physical blows but also served as a deterrent, making it challenging for opponents to predict and counter the onslaught.

This is no doubt what I saw.

It became evident that Zane had already mastered this technique, showcasing a level of skill and proficiency that surpassed not only mine but also Jake's current abilities. The realization emphasized the gap in experience and training between us and students like Zane, who seemed to be well-versed in advanced martial arts and spellcasting. It served as a stark reminder of the challenges we faced in catching up to our more accomplished peers within the Golactic Coalation.

Jake's question carried a note of perplexity as he looked at the holographic display showing Ember Jabs. "What's so good about that spell? Are you a flame affinity or something?"

"No, it's just something I saw Zane use in the exams," I replied, scrolling through the detailed description of the martial art.

Jake leaned in, his expression still puzzled. "Well, I'm not surprised. Those nobles really do have it great with the amazing upbringing and tutors from birth."

A hint of frustration lingered in his voice, a sentiment shared by many who perceived the nobles' advantages as insurmountable. I nodded in agreement, acknowledging the disparities in our starting points within the Golactic Coalation. The realization that Zane, and likely other nobles, had mastered such techniques further emphasized the uphill battle we faced.

"Doesn't mean we can't catch up," I said, my tone determined. "We just have to work twice as hard and find our own paths. There's more to strength than just fancy spells and martial arts."

Jake's gaze met mine, and for a moment, the weight of our aspirations hung in the air.

Jake's words echoed with a hint of resentment, a sentiment not uncommon among those who perceived the advantages held by the noble families. As we continued our discussion, I delved into the Golactic Coalation system, exploring various spells and martial techniques that aligned with my affinity for space. While my attunement percentage was relatively low, I was determined to find a technique that resonated with my abilities.

As I navigated through the holographic interface, Jake shared insights into the challenges of rising through the ranks within the Golactic Coalation. The nobles, with their privileged upbringing and access to the best tutors, indeed possessed a head start. It was a reality I couldn't ignore, and the Ember Jabs spell served as a tangible reminder of the gaps in our capabilities.

Nonetheless, the determination that had ignited within me since the first day at the Golactic Coalation remained unyielding. I was resolved to overcome obstacles and carve my path, even if it meant starting from the bottom. The Ember Jabs spell, though currently out of reach, fueled my motivation to discover and master space-affinity techniques that would set me apart.