Maughan brought Ryan some exciting news. Without hesitation, Ryan accepted it immediately.
Within the security team, tensions were rising. Today, Ryan had showcased his abilities in front of everyone, making him a focal point for Torres and others. He might face more challenges in the future.
Maughan and a few colleagues pooled together two million dollars to help Ryan upgrade his chip, which was immensely beneficial for his growth. Naturally, Ryan wouldn't refuse such help. Mutual support among team members was a given, but ignoring others' contributions and risks would betray the true spirit of teamwork.
Fortunately, the team members following Carlos had deep bonds. They understood from Maughan why Ryan kept a low profile and were willing to support him financially. Among them was Jane. Jane wasn't foolish. Having gained recognition through Ryan, she knew she had to face all the pressures alongside the team.
After gathering, the team headed to the base headquarters' chip upgrade center to complete all the formalities. Ten people participated in this upgrade. Ryan, without spending any credits, upgraded his H3 citizen chip to H5, boosting his computing power to 7 units per second. Jane also used all her savings to upgrade to H5, keeping pace with the team.
"Thank you all so much today," Ryan publicly expressed after leaving the hall. "I won't say anything too mushy. Tonight, supper on the 36th floor is on me! We'll have Lacertoclaweus! Drinks are unlimited!"
"Awesome!"
"We definitely need to celebrate."
"Let's go!"
Jane followed the group, seeing a different side of Ryan for the first time. Since joining the security team, Ryan seemed like a changed person, always in the spotlight, radiating brilliance. When she tasted the meat Ryan personally grilled, her opinion of him solidified even more.
However, Jane was puzzled, not understanding why Aeloria hadn't seen Ryan's potential earlier.
During the supper, Carlos suddenly visited. After toasting everyone, he dispersed the crowd, as Maughan's team was about to start their mission. Carlos left Ryan alone. Staring at Ryan for a while, Carlos said, "Your ability to adapt and act quickly in such a volatile environment, and your weapon system switching speed and precision, are impressive. You're a natural warrior."
"Boss, you're flattering me. I just happened to do the right thing," Ryan humbly replied.
Carlos wasn't convinced. "Someone like you is suited for the Space Corps, but also not quite."
"…"
Ryan's smile faded. Carlos's words seemed profound.
"I'm willing to hear your explanation."
"Your talents would be better utilized in the military."
"But unfortunately, the current Space Force has almost no opponents in the universe, with daily routine training. Moreover, military academies are rampant now, with over three thousand branches of the Federation Space Military Academy alone. Such a regimented life and training might limit your growth speed."
"But here, it's different. Look, you've only been here two days and earned over two million, and your chip is upgraded. We have our own training facilities here, and your combat talents can be utilized. The key is, your growth speed here will be much faster than in the Space Corps."
Carlos, as the head of security at this base, had insights and foresight beyond ordinary people and clearly understood the choices Ryan faced. His words revealed his hope for Ryan to stay with TerraNova and continue working in the security team.
Ryan understood Carlos's intention. Carlos, smoking, continued, "In the Space Corps, with so many soldiers, it's tough to stand out. Some serve for years and only become sergeants, and those who reach G-level are even rarer."
"However, TerraNova, backed by TerraCore Group, has thousands of subsidiaries, with dozens or even hundreds of new companies forming each year, expanding into deep space. The demand for security personnel and talent is immense… You, Maughan, and Torres all have the chance to become leaders of the base security team and advance to G-level. It's not difficult for you."
"Boss, why are you telling me this all of a sudden? I just graduated."
Ryan blinked, "I haven't thought that far ahead."
"Start thinking about it now. You have the potential; don't waste it."
Carlos finished, patted his pants, and left, appearing enigmatic. Ryan understood that Carlos saw his potential and believed he shouldn't be confined to the small environment of the security team. Therefore, Carlos had to paint a broader, more attractive future to keep him.
In fact, Ryan's thoughts aligned with Carlos's. Staying with TerraNova to accumulate resources and improve himself, he could join the Space Corps later and directly become an officer based on his strength, gaining a higher starting point.
A few hours later, Ryan's chip suddenly received a message.
"Master, there's an unknown message trying to connect."
"Who is it?"
"Official certification shows it's from TerraCore Group's Human Resources Department," Astra replied.
Ryan was visibly surprised. TerraCore Group? Why would they contact someone as insignificant as him directly? Was it because he defeated six Lacertoclaweus on the battlefield? That seemed unlikely!!
TerraCore Group was a massive conglomerate with thousands of subsidiaries and over ten million employees. The group not only had numerous C-class transport ships and regular combat vessels but also thousands of elite C-class forces. Additionally, TerraCore Group had its own research institutions and gene enhancement liquid supply system, boasting immense strength.
Would such a giant notice a newcomer who had just switched to a security role?
"Connect," Ryan ordered Astra. A polite, official voice sounded in his ear, "Hello, Mr. Yeager. This is the Human Resources Department of TerraCore Corporation. We have an internal referral and would like to invite you to participate in the 'Celestial Trial' hosted by TerraCore Corporation in three months."
Hearing this invitation, Ryan's heart skipped a beat. The HR representative continued calmly, "We'll send you the specific details and rules of the event via internal email. You can decide whether to participate… This is a major internal event for selecting talents within TerraCore Group, using practical tests to identify and reward the best young talents. You can find more details in the email."
"This 'Celestial Trial' is not open to the public. By viewing the email, you automatically accept the group's confidentiality agreement! Any information leaks will be recorded, so please be mindful."
Celestial Trial? He had heard of this event in his previous life; its reputation was legendary.