Asher arrived at their usual meeting spot—a small, cozy café tucked away in the bustling streets of Elaris. Lara and Thorian were already there, sitting at a table near the back, forms spread out before them. The low hum of conversation filled the air as sunlight streamed through the windows, giving the place a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Asher slid into the seat across from them, glancing down at the examination forms. "So, are you both ready for this?"
Thorian smirked, tapping his pen against the form. "More ready than you, that's for sure."
Lara chuckled softly, her eyes already focused on filling out the details. "I think we'll do fine as long as we stay focused."
As Asher began to fill in his form, something caught his attention. The form clearly mentioned Squad Zero, but there was no option for any other squad.
"Wait a second," Asher said, frowning as he flipped through the pages. "Why is there only a form for Squad Zero? I thought there were multiple squads. Shouldn't we be able to choose which one we want to apply for?"
Thorian and Lara exchanged a knowing glance before turning their attention back to Asher.
Lara leaned forward, her expression patient and informative, as she explained. "That's because the Squad Examination is region-based, Asher. Elaris is divided into four major regions—Alpha, Beta, Omega, and **Delta. Each region is protected by a different elite squad."
She pointed to a map of Elaris laid out on the table, showing the four distinct regions and their boundaries.
"We live in the Delta Region,which is protected by Squad Zero. That's why we can only apply to join them. If you wanted to join a squad from a different region, like Squad Two or Squad 4, you'd have to live in their
Thorian leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "And traveling between regions isn't exactly cheap. The cost of relocating to another region is sky-high, especially for common folks like us. You'd need a lot of money or some powerful connections to even think about applying to another squad."
He gestured toward the forms in front of them. "That's why we're stuck with Squad Zero—well, I wouldn't say 'stuck.' They're the best squad in our region, and they've got a reputation for being pretty tough. It's an honor to even have a shot at joining them."
Lara pointed to each section of the map, giving Asher a breakdown of the regions.
"Here's how it works:
- Alpha Region is the most prestigious. It's the political center of Elaris, where the royal family and most high-ranking officials live. Squad Alpha protects this region, and they're seen as the elite of the elite.
- Beta Region is the industrial heart of Elaris. It's home to most of the country's technology and innovation. Squad Beta is known for its use of advanced tech in combat and strategy.
- Omega Region is the agricultural and natural sector. It's a place of vast landscapes, from mountains to forests. Squad Omega protects the rural communities and manages a lot of the environmental concerns.
Delta Regionis where we are. It's the most diverse, with a mix of city life and outlying towns. Squad Zero protects the entire region, and they're known for their versatility. They handle everything from high-profile threats in the cities to more personal problems in the region
Asher absorbed the information, his mind racing with the possibilities. *Four regions. Four squads. And we're applying for the squad that protects our region—the Delta, under Squad Zero.*
It made sense now why there was only one form. As much as he would have liked to have options, the reality of the situation was that Squad Zero was his only chance right now. But maybe that was enough. He didn't need to move to another region; he would prove himself right here, under Squad Zero, in his home.
"Okay, that clears things up," Asher said, finally cracking a smile. "I guess this is my chance to prove myself then. Even if it's just Squad Zero, I'll use this as a stepping stone."
Lara smiled at his determination. "Squad Zero isn't just 'any' squad, Asher. They're one of the best, and if we succeed, we'll have the chance to rise through the ranks—maybe even transfer to another region later, if that's something you're aiming for."
Thorian chuckled, shaking his head. "That is, if you survive the examination. I heard it's brutal this year. They're pushing candidates harder than ever."
Asher nodded, feeling his confidence grow. The examination may be tough, and Squad Zero might be his only option right now, but he was determined to use this opportunity to his full advantage. He wouldn't just settle for being a ranger; he'd rise through the ranks, all the way to the top. And with his friends by his side, maybe they could all make it.
The chapter ends with Asher, Thorian, and Lara reviewing their forms, the weight of the upcoming examination hanging over them, but their spirits undeterred.