After the second orientation phase, the Supernatural and The Academy draftees step into the quiet atmosphere of Room A, the interview room. This room has four yellow walls, nine chairs, and four people. One person is a young Advanced Creature: Advanced Human male around 162 centimeters in height. He has thin, white hair cut short, with pencil-thin, straight eyebrows above his gray eyes. He wears a flowing blue and white robe that touches the ground, and in his hand, he has a two-meter-long brown staff topped with a bright, emerald-green orb.
Another draftee, a young female with a vivid green hue to her skin, stands around 159 centimeters tall. She has emerald green eyes, short pointed ears, and long, glossy dark red hair. The prominent features classify her as a Troll: Elf Archetype. Her outfit is a full-body latex ensemble in a combination of green and black paired with black boots.
The remaining recruits are familiar faces, Jax and Rojo. Navar can't contain his excitement when he sees Jax, so he runs towards him, arms outstretched and ready for a hug. "Hey Jax, how di-"
"Shh," the white-haired child gestures to a black and white sign that says no talking.
Navar's eyes flicker to the Blue-Robed Youth before settling back on Jax. "Anyway, Ja- "
"Hey, do you not know how to read? For the good of everyone here, will you shut up so we don't get in trouble?"
Navar stares at The Blue Robed youth, his face still and silent. "No."
The white-haired youth lets out a deep, audible sigh of irritation. "Good grief, don't complain to me if we all get yelled at," He adjusts himself in his chair sideways, the chair creaking slightly as sleep takes him over. "I hope all warriors aren't like that guy. Cause if so, it's going to be a long career," he thinks to himself.
Suddenly, an elderly Advanced Human Male with short, straight gray hair, creased tan skin, and brown eyes appears on the projector screen, draped in a majestic purple robe. "Greetings. My name is Rai, Emperor of Ozania, and I will be your proctor for the last phase of this exam. For this interview, I will ask you one question. You don't have to worry. This question isn't hard; it's straightforward. However, I will not let you pass if you do not meet my expectations or if I suspect your background isn't fit for Ozania. To conclude this briefing, under your seats should be a number from 1 to 9. Whoever has the number 9 starts first, and whoever has the number 1 comes last."
They pull out the strip of paper from their seats, and the order they'll go in is: Rojo is 9, Juyon is 8, Navar is 7, The Elf is 6, Jax is 5, Seiju is 4, Miri is 3, Astran is 2, and The Blue Robed Youth is 1.
"Sit tight before I come, and prepare yourself for the question. See you then!"
When the teleprompter cuts off, the rookies sit in uncomfortable silence. Navar, his patience wearing thin, exhales an exasperated sigh. "Ugh, can we please get on with the interview? I'm so bored!"
"Just wait, you idiot. Do you always have to be so impatient?" asks Miri.
"And do you always have to be so negative?"
"Kinda hard not to when you're so annoying all the time."
"… Shut the fu- "
Jax places his hand over Navar's mouth. "Woah, Navar! Chill! Don't say that."
"Sorry," Navar lets out a soft embarrassed chuckle.
After what felt like an eternity, the secretary finally opens the interview room door. "Number 9, you're up!"
"Welp, I guess it's my time to go," Rojo strides ahead, his heart pounding and his body shaking as he approaches the door. "Come on, Rojo, get a grip! It's just one question!" Rojo thinks to himself.
When Rojo enters the interview room, Rai hears the faint sound of his shallow breath and notices his knees buckling, so he grins at him to calm him down. "You seem nervous. Relax..."
"Relax?! Y-you're the Emperor, for crying out loud! It's so nerve-racking to see you in person when you're one of the most famous people ever!"
"While I'm flattered by that, I'm just an everyday person like you, so just sit and make yourself comfortable."
"Right."
"Tell me, Rojo, why do you want to enter The Academy?"
Rojo feels a gentle warmth emanating throughout his body, a nostalgic feeling about his past. "Before my dad died, he handed his will to me and told me to achieve my dream of becoming an Admiral for The Academy. Since then, I've felt like becoming an Admiral would surely make him happy. So I thought I would honor his legacy by gathering the courage to come here and take the Cadet Exam."
"Aw, that's very touching. What company did your father run? You look similar to someone who used to engineer our ships."
"The company he ran was Kiyosaki Engineering Co."
"Oh yes, Jo! He was one of our greatest technicians ever. He made some nice schematics for modern ships, and I'm sure he let you fly them, so you have the background for that, too."
"Yeah, I've flown almost every vehicle he's made."
"That's very impressive, Rojo, and I'm delighted you came here to join our Navy. You can go on back to the lobby and await your results."
"Thank you, Lord Rai…."
"No problem."
Rojo settles back into his seat, and Navar, Miri, and Jax eagerly eye him, waiting expectantly for the results of his interview. "So, how did it go?" asks Navar.
"I told him a sob story about my dad, and he might think I used it as bait to get in. Ugh, why do I always do that when I'm nervous?"
"Don't count yourself out too easily. I'm sure it didn't turn out as bad as you think. As I always say, Don't overthink it. Overdo it!"
Rojo scrunches his brow and recoils his head back. "Don't overthink it; overdo it. What the hell is that supposed to mean? That makes no sense!"
Jax lets out a light laugh. "Navar's been saying that and many other things that don't make sense for a long while. You'll get used to it, Rojo."
"It makes sense to me, and that's all that matters! You definitely will pass Rojo!"
"Yeah, hopefully. I don't know what to do if I don't make it."
The secretary enters the room, the door creaking on its hinges. "Number 8, will you come in, please?" Juyon enters the interview room as he is summoned. "I hope the Dynast of this Empire is just, unlike others in this universe."
"Welcome, Juyon. You can have a seat and get comfortable."
"As you wish, my lord," Juyon bows and lowers himself into a seated position.
Rai lets out a brief burst of laughter. "While I appreciate the bow, you don't have to bow before for me."
"I apologize for the inconvenience, my Lord."
"No need to say sorry. You did what you did out of respect, a quality trait in a warrior. Anyway, tell me, Juyon, why do you want to become a warrior for Ozania?"
Juyon hesitates for a moment, and then his eyes gleam with a fire of conviction. "Revolution," Declares Juyon.
"Oh, Revolution, what do you mean by that?"
Juyon's fists shake as he clasps them. "It's the golem lineage within me. We are known as a race of belligerent creatures that have caused bloodshed, chaos, and violence. Even knowing I was a descendant of a maniacal race, one person in my life told me I could overcome that history and become a strong-willed protector of those around me. She told me to overcome all the harsh prejudices thrust upon me."
"Oh, and who would this person be?"
"It was my mother, and I made her a promise on her deathbed. I promised her I would never kill a soul and protect innocent lives. After I do some time as a Supernatural, I hope to become a prominent figure in politics and help push more laws to be made that enact justice and start a new generation of golems who share my views of justice."
"Such inspiring words of someone your age are rare. I am impressed. Thank you for your time, Juyon."
"Thank you, my lord."
Juyon exits the room, followed by the secretary. "Number 7, you're up!"
Navar leaps up from his seat, his face beaming with joy. "Looks like it's my time to shine!"
"Good Luck, Navar," says Jax and Rojo.
"Thanks, guys!" Navar strides into the interview room with an air of assurance.
"Greetings, young one. Get comfortable and take a seat."
Navar smiles brightly as he extends his hand, gesturing for a handshake. "Nice to meet you, Rai. I've wanted to for a long while!"
Rai and Navar exchange handshakes, and Rai's face lights up with a beaming smile. "Nice grip there, young one."
"Thank you. My dad always said a firm grip is a great sign of a hardworking man!"
"Yes, indeed it is. So Navar, tell me… why do you want to join the Ozanian Army?"
"Oh man, where do I even start? The many stories of warriors in the past! The awesome army! What's there not to like about becoming a warrior?! When my siblings Jax, Miri, and I heard stories of them, we couldn't help but get inspired and want to do those same deeds of our own. So we trained hard with each other, and we killed countless beasts to fulfill our dreams. Even though everyone doubted us, we never abandoned it, and here we are now! Those doubters can kiss our asses!"
Rai lets out a hearty laugh that vibrates in the air. "Oh, Absolutely! For every successful man, there're naysayers that try to stop them. It's a good thing you pushed through it and came here. Is there anything else you'd like to tell me, Navar?"
"Oh yeah, there's my Mom and My Dad, who are some of my favorite people in my life! I'd do anything for them as they have done everything for me, so when I get the money, I'll help buy them a house, so they don't have to live in that "shithole," as Mom calls it!"
Rai's laughter bellows out of him, causing his stomach to clench. "Now, now, settle down on the language Navar."
"Sorry about that. My Mom says it all the time. She's got a pretty bad mouth."
"Do you have anything else you'd like to tell me?"
"Yeah, when I become a great warrior, I'll use every dime I have to make Wellfort a wonderful place to live!"
"Wow, you have a heart of gold, Navar, and that will take you a long way as a warrior and in your life. I'm glad you came here today along with your siblings. You can go back to the interview area and await your results."
"Thanks, Rai. I hope we meet again!"
"Likewise, young one!"
Rai's mouth curves into a satisfied smirk after Navar departs the room. "I don't think I've ever encountered someone with that much enthusiasm," thought Rai.
Navar returns to his seat with a satisfied swagger, chest puffed out with a toothy grin. "You seem happy. Did it go that well?" asks Jax.
"Of course it did! I know I'm going to make it in!"
"Oh, and how do you know that?" asks Miri.
"He said this..." Navar clears his throat. "Your answers impressed me. I'm glad you and your siblings made it!"
Rojo and Jax laugh at Navar's mediocre imitation of Rai. "That sounds nothing like him, you retard," says Miri.
"Hah! You're just jealous 'cause you don't have half the skill it takes to do my imitation."
"Jealous of a shitty ass impersonation. Sure, I'll take that."
Navar rises from his chair and squares off with Miri. "I swear I-"
The secretary peeks her head out of the room and lets out a "Shh" to end the quarrel. "Be quiet! Didn't you kids read the sign? Anyway, Number six, you're up."
The elf gathers her cards and makes her way inside the room. "Hello there, Nozomi. Please take a seat and make yourself at home."
"Y-yes, sir…"
Rai and The Elf lock eyes for a moment, and she feels her cheeks flush, breaking their gaze and hanging her head in shame. "Sorry…"
"No need for you to say sorry, Nozomi."
"Y-yes, sir."
"Nozomi, tell me why you want to become a warrior for Ozania's Telepath Division."
Nozomi glances at her flashcards, which sit on her thighs, compiling her thoughts to answer Rai's question. "I-I grew up in a world where unspeakable acts happened to people daily. It got so bad that I got used to it. When I was brought here, I wanted to use my power to prevent people from dying... I also, um...." A trauma forms in Nozomi's psyche, causing her entire body to shake. "Sorry, I can't control when that happens."
"That's fine. I've seen my fair share of incredulous acts in this universe. Do you have questions or anything else you want to tell me?"
"N-no sir, I'm sorry."
"It's alright; I appreciate your time Nozomi. I can see why Madame Law wanted you to come here. You can sit and await your results once everyone is finished."
"Yes, Sir," Nozomi inclines her head and returns to her seat.
The secretary walks through the door. "Number 5, come in!"
Navar gives Jax a hearty pat on the back, accompanied by a warm smile. "Go get 'em!"
"Of course, I will," Jax walks into the interview room.
"Greetings, Jax. Have a seat and make yourself comfortable."
"Will do, sir!"
Rai lifts a sheet of paper, letting it catch the light. "Do you know what these are?"
Jax furrows his brow and scratches his scalp, looking perplexed. "No, what is it?"
"This is your test score from the first phase of the orientation. Scores this high are a rarity among kids your age."
"Wow, thanks. I knew my test scores were pretty high, but not that high."
Rai places the piece of paper back in its original spot. "Anyway, Jax, tell me why you want to become a pilot for Ozania."
"Hmm, my siblings Navar Miri and I all dreamed of becoming Warriors since we were young, and although I'm not a Supernatural like them, I'll still tag along for the adventure and be their pilot. I guess that aint so bad. And besides, unlike them, I prefer using my head a little more than my strength."
"Yeah, you'll enjoy flying ships. I like to fly one into space now and then. It's pretty fun."
"Who're you tellin'! I used to sneak out to them fancy cities and play on the flight simulators for fun. Hell, Navar, Miri, and I even discussed who would fly the ships when we became warriors, and they chose me."
"See, now you realize you were born to be a cadet."
"Eh, I don't like the phrase "being born into" more or less. I'm more fit for it. My pops always told me you decide what you do. Nobody else does."
"Oh, wanna elaborate more?"
"Oh, um, Isn't it odd that people always say they're born to do something, or they're built for this and that and leave it at that? They don't explore or venture out into other things. I think this life is too full of things and activities to stay dead set on one thing; you know what I'm sayin'."
"Yes indeed, look at me, for crying out loud. Before becoming a Supernatural for my previous civilization, I wanted to be a musician. It was because people in my ear told me I was born to play a hell of a guitar. It was until I saved someone from killing one of my friends. It gave me the motivation to become a warrior."
"Wow, cool!"
"I'd love to chat more with you, but I don't have enough time to chat any longer. You may go back to the waiting room and await your results. Thanks for coming!"
"No problem, sir. I'm glad I could meet you.". A subtle grin graces Jax's face as he steps away from the interview room and returns to his seat.
"Well, how did it go?" asks Navar.
"I don't know, to be honest. I told him the truth about everything, and I didn't fabricate anything."
"It sounds like you passed, considering he said you didn't lie. I think you're good," said Miri.
"And he'd be a fool not to let you in!" says Navar.
Jax emits a light laugh. "Yeah, I guess you're right, Navar."
"Number 4, You're Next!"
"Don't mind if I do," Seiju rises from his seat, taking his time as he enters the interview room.
"Hello there, Seiju. Please have a seat, if you will."
"Thanks, old man.."
As Rai reads through Seiju's record, he recognizes the name on the top left that rings with prestige. "Oh, Hikami! You're Mei's little brother, Seiju. She's told me a lot about you."
Seiju emits a mocking chuckle and rolls his eyes in disbelief. "Wow, I'm surprised she said a nice thing, considering how annoying she is."
Rai laughs forced and awkwardly. "Oh, I'm sorry; I didn't know you weren't so keen on being mentioned with your family members."
"Don't sweat it, old man. It's just that Mei's annoying ass is always bragging about everything she does all the time, and it's annoying as hell."
Rai snickers, a smirk playing on his lips. "You're a funny guy. I hope you know that Seiju," Rai clears his throat. "Anyhow, back to the task. Why do you want to become a warrior?"
"As tacky as it sounds, I've heard stories of noble warriors like Ozan, Sir Gallforth, Axe Man Jumbah, Reymont, Solomon, and many others, which inspired me. Also, the money is a pleasant touch. I can have all the luxurious vehicles, clothes, and dazzling babes at my side."
"Mei was right about you being a player. Don't you go breaking too many hearts out there, Seiju."
"Man, I try not to, but the ladies just come to me like a moth to the light. They just can't stay the hell away from me. I'm just that sexy baby."
Rai's face glows with happiness, and a whisper of a laugh comes from his mouth. "All right, Seiju, thank you for your time..."
"You too, old man," Seiju returns to his waiting seat.
"Number 3, come in!"
"That's my cue to go," Miri rises from her seat and strolls confidently to the interview room.
"Good luck, Miri!" says Navar.
"Don't need it. It's just one question."
Miri enters the interview room. "Hello, Miri. Take a seat and make yourself at home," said Rai.
"..."
"So, Miri, I would like for you to answer this question for me. Why do you want to become a warrior for Ozania?"
"From an early age, my brothers and I wanted to become great warriors for Ozania. We spent countless hours practicing and hunting to get to where we are today. And since my two brothers can sometimes be reckless, I tell myself I will help them along the way so they do nothing foolish."
Rai emits a low, throaty laugh. "I can relate. I had two younger brothers that always got themselves into situations, and I had to bail them out."
"Yeah, you could say that, but it's not just becoming a Warrior or keeping those boneheads out of trouble; I want to get stronger. This universe is not a place where you just become a doormat and live on. You need to be ready to defend yourself. I have spent time honing some martial arts and other techniques, but joining the army will help to a greater degree."
"I see. I appreciate your time, Miri, and I am happy you came here to join the Ozanian Army."
Miri gives a quick nod as she exits the room, her footsteps echoing on the marble floor as she returns to her seat.
"How did it go?" asks Jax.
"It went pretty easy, and I assume since I made him laugh, he liked my answers."
"Did you make him smile like I did, though?" asks Navar.
"Laughing and smiling go hand in hand, dumbass."
"What did you call me?!"
"A dumbass, you heard me."
"Say it again. I dare you..."
"Dumbass."
"That's it. I'm sick of your shit today! I'm gonna kick your ass!"
"I'd love to see you try."
Miri and Navar rise from their seats and confront one another, their faces blazing with emotion.
Rojo shifts uncomfortably as he hears Navar and Miri arguing. "Oh, don't mind those two. They're guaranteed to go at it daily. You'll get used to it as I did for the past 12 years of my life," says Jax.
"How can you get used to that? Aint it a bit much?"
"My Mom and dad argue a lot. They argue a lot. It happens so much I just tolerate it."
"Ok, why don't you and I play a game of Shogi while we wait for the interviews to finish?"
"You bet, Rojo!" Jax walks to the black shelf, the smooth surface under, and plucks the Shogi board from its spot before heading back to his seat.
"Number Two, you're up!"
As Astran enters the room, she feels Rai's steady gaze as she prepares for the interview. "Hello, Astran. Take a seat."
"Yes, sir."
"Astran, I want to know why you've come here… why do you want to become a Warrior for Ozania?"
"The place I came from had multiple acts of injustice towards the people who lived under them for reasons beyond their control, so I left there to start over here."
"Interesting answer. The Great Hizarian Forge is an Empire with as much fame as us. It's shocking to hear they have that going on. Can you explain to me the unfair acts you've witnessed?"
"It's a bit much for me to talk about. I'd rather not."
"That's fine. I've seen some horrid things in this universe in my 68 years of living. I understand where you're coming from."
"Agreed. I just hope I made the right choice by coming here."
"You certainly did, and if you want to talk about what happened to you during your time under the Hizarian Forge, I'll be an ear to listen to."
"I'm okay with that. Thanks for understanding, Rai."
"No need to thank me. I appreciate your honesty and the fact that you sought out Ozania. Thank you for coming today."
"Your welcome, Rai," Astran exits the room with a soft swish of the door and returns to her seat.
"Last entry!"
The blue robe awakens from his slumber, the fabric of his blue robe rustling as he shuffles into the interview room. "Hello, Denkei! Make yourself comfortable."
"Will do, Lord Rai."
"Ok, Denkei, tell me why you want to become a mage for Ozania?"
Denkei takes a moment to consider Rai's question, breathing slowly and steadily. "Arturo suggested I come here to use my talents for the greater good."
"So you came here involuntarily?"
"Not exactly. I wouldn't be here if I didn't want to do this."
"Oh, so what is keeping you here?"
"I don't have a concrete answer. I've heard plenty of great things about Ozania's army and their benefits, so I decided why not."
"Oh, I see. I know the warriors there will appreciate having you by their side."
"Oh, Warriors, keep this between you and me, but I hope all Warriors won't be like that piece of work in there with the blonde hair."
Rai bursts into laughter, his stomach clenching as tears fall from his eyes. "Not all warriors are like that, I promise you, and I'm sure the annoying parts of his personality will probably vanquish when you and him fight in combat together."
"I sure as hell hope so. Because babysitting isn't in my job description," Denkei exits the interview room and returns to his seat.
Thirty minutes later, Rai emerges from the room with a stack of sheets of paper densely covered with writing. "Excuse me, you all. May I have your attention?" The voice of Rai catches everyone's attention. "After a deep and thorough examination of you all…"
"…."
"Congratulations, all of you have passed the orientation!"
Upon hearing Rai's announcement, everyone erupts joyfully, clapping and hollering. "Don't get too excited, though; your exam will start in 1 week. Take this time to rest your body and prepare for it. It will not be easy."
"Yes, Sir!" They all depart from the room.
After everyone had left, Rai casts his gaze to a dark corner of the room. "You can come out now."
A silhouette materializes from the shadows, gradually taking the form of an Advanced Creature: Advanced Human standing 210 centimeters wearing a dark black long-sleeved shirt, a black cape, dark cargo pants, an eyepatch on his left eye, and medium-height straight brown hair. "So you see why I was keen on letting them all pass? They show great potential."
"They do. It's been a while since we let all the warriors of a class pass through orientation. Unlike last time, most of their motivations and desires weren't selfish. So I know we made the right decision."
"Agreed, Lord Rai. I'll start preparations for their exam."
"Why thank you 499." (pronounced four nine nine)