Meanwhile, the armed forces of Norstania, driven by an unbreakable love for their homeland, mobilized in one final, desperate attempt from the shadowed, distant Emerald Mountains to the ruined cities of Stan, every soldier fought with a bravery that had already lost all hope, clinging to a love for their nation that seemed .
Ten days after the destruction of Stan.
—Staniel, how are you feeling? —asked Dandalion, adjusting the medical monitor beside him.
—I'm feeling much better, doctor... —Staniel replied with a tone of concern, trying to sit up— Do you know anything about my father, Arlo? Is he okay?—Dandalion remained silent for a moment, his face reflecting a mix of bitterness and seriousness. Finally, he spoke.
—Unfortunately... there are no signs of survivors.
Staniel felt the words hit him like a cold wave that left him breathless. He lowered his gaze as tears began to well up in his eyes.
—What do I have left now? —he said, his voice broken with despair—. Everything I fought for... is gone. My father, my workshop... my mother's legacy. I have nothing, not even a place to call home.
—Dandalion looked at him with sorrow, aware that no words could ease the weight of his pain. Still, he spoke with resolve.
—I know this won't bring you comfort, Staniel... but the government of Norstania has begun mass recruitment across all sectors. They're looking for men and women willing to fight against the alien invasion. If you choose to join the military, at least you'll have food, a place to live... and the chance to fight. Perhaps, even avenge your father's memory.
—Join the military? —Staniel whispered, raising his gaze with eyes full of tears and contained rage.
—If you choose to do so, at least you'll have food, a place to live... and the chance to fight. Perhaps, even avenge your father's memory —added Dandalion.
The next day.
—I entered the national recruitment office of Sector 1. The main entrance was flanked by enormous white marble columns with,golden spiral details, emulating theCorinthian order, but with a futuristic design. The acanthus leaves seemed to faintly glow with holographic energy. A large triangular pediment rested above the columns, displaying the military emblem, illuminated by LED lights casting majestic shadows on the floor.
—As I passed through the automatic glass doors, which opened with a soft hum, the interior unfolded into a vast hall with towering ceilings, decorated with digital frescoes depicting heroic scenes from interstellar battles. These frescoes, though dynamic, adhered to the classical composition of figures in heroic poses, as if they were living mosaics.
—In the center, a large holographic statue of a soldier in futuristic armor, inspired by Roman tunics and loricas, dominated the space. The armor was stylized with clean lines and golden details, while the face projected a stoic air. At the base of the statue, there was an interactive kiosk where recruits could register.
—The service desks were arranged in a semicircle, evoking Roman forums. Each station had floating transparent screens where officers reviewed the data of the applicants. The recruiters, dressed in uniforms that combined military cuts with modern togas, wore golden badges on their chests, reflecting the government's values.
—The floor was polished marble, with geometric patterns that gently glowed under a warm white light. In the center, a digital mosaic displayed the map of the solar system representing the government's territory, marking allied planets and zones of conflict.
—On the walls, there were metallic reliefs inspired by classical friezes, but instead of scenes from antiquity, they depicted futuristic soldiers, spaceships, and battles against enemies. These images were combined with motivational texts in modern Latin, illuminated by neon lines running along the edges of the panels.
—At the back of the hall, a large bronze door with engravings of laurel leaves and lightning bolts symbolized the entrance to the evaluation and simulation rooms, where recruits are tested before being admitted. Above the door, a holographic inscription in classical style proclaimed:
"Ad victoriam, pro patria et humanitate"
("To victory, for the homeland and humanity").
The atmosphere combined solemnity and efficiency. Everything in this office, from the design to the subtle hum of machines, conveyed that this was not just a place to enlist, but a temple of duty and glory.
— I want to join the United Republics of Norsthania military —Staniel said with seriousness.
—Aspirant, my name is Lunaria. Please show your identification so I can enter it into the Norstania Army's database, —said Lunaria with a smile.
—Of course, I have no objection, —Staniel replied, taking out a metallic cube the color of copper with golden shimmering lines, about the size of a sugar lump. He displayed his holographic identification.
United Republics of Norsthania Identification Name: Staniel Santos Neo Sky
Date of Birth: April 20, 2153
Place of Birth: Stan City, Republic of Norsthania, Sector 4
Physical Features
Height: 1.90 m
Eye Color: Blue
Hair: Blonde
Skin: White
Identification Number: NS-2153-0420-
—"Please come with me, Staniel, to the Evaluation and Simulation room. You will undergo physical and mental tests. At the end of the evaluation, you will receive a document that will determine your rank and grade. This rank is crucial, as it will indicate the position you will hold within our ranks,"
—said Lunaria in her characteristic bright and cheerful tone. Her amber eyes glowed with an intensity that seemed to pierce the soul, as if she could see everything behind Staniel's appearance.
As they walked down the corridor, the metallic walls gleamed under soft lights, creating a cold yet energy-charged atmosphere. Every step they took echoed like a reminder of the weight of what was about to happen. Staniel could feel his heart beating faster, nervous about what was coming.
—"Here we are," —Lunaria said, stopping in front of a large gleaming steel door, covered in symbols that shone like distant stars. The door slid open with a whisper of energy, revealing a simulation room that seemed to stretch on endlessly.
The air vibrated with a subtly charged energy, as if the entire space was waiting for the evaluation to begin.
—Lunaria looked at him with a confident smile. "The tests are tough, but necessary. Only those who are worthy can achieve a high rank. Remember, Staniel, this is the first step of your journey. The rank you earn will define not only your future but your destiny in the fight for your country. I deeply regret what happened to the people of Stan," —Lunaria said, her tone becoming more serious.
—"For example, Staniel," —she continued as the evaluation began, —"among the highest ranks is the Eternal Nexus, the most prestigious of all. It's a rank that only a few have reached. Those who achieve it are considered the knights of Stan. If you earn this rank, you'll be assigned one of the best rooms at the Bellagio base, at the top of the Celestial Towers. Moreover, you'll be considered to join the Special Forces of Norstania, an elite group whose mission is to carry out the most dangerous and strategic tasks at the borders of the universe."
The air in the room seemed to grow heavier as Lunaria spoke of Eternal Nexus.
—"This is the rank that defines heroes, Staniel. It's a great honor that few can even dream of attaining in their lifetime."
—"But," —she continued with a gentler smile, —"if you don't earn Eternal Nexus, the next rank, Lux Aeternum, is almost equally prestigious. Those who belong to this rank are guardians of eternal knowledge, protectors of the proud country of Norstania. If you reach this rank, you'll be assigned a modest room, but still in a privileged area of the base."
"Your tasks will be somewhat simpler. You may be assigned to a platoon or be tasked with commanding one. Although your opportunities for promotion are more limited than those of Eternal Nexus, your position in the army will still be vital. You will be the beacon of light in times of darkness."
—Staniel nodded, listening attentively to every word. "And what about the lower ranks?" —he asked cautiously.
—Lunaria looked at him with a knowing expression, yet a firmness in her eyes.
—"Next, we have Stellar Guard, honorable rank, but with fewer opportunities for advancement. Those who reach this level are assigned to defense and protection missions, safeguarding the bases and maintaining peace within the confines of Norstania. They are the guardians of the cities, those who face chaos, but not necessarily the ones who lead the battle. Their rooms will be much more modest, in a lower section of the base. However, their loyalty and dedication to the cause are no less important than those of higher ranks."
"And if you do earn the Stellar Guard rank, don't despair," —Lunaria said with a smile.
—"It's only the beginning. Many of Norstania's great leaders and warriors started as Stellar Guard. Your future is in your hands, Staniel. No matter what rank you receive today, what truly matters is what you do with the power you're given."
A heavy silence filled the room as the simulations began.
—Staniel closed his eyes for a moment, preparing to face the tests, feeling the gravity of the moment.
—Lunaria watched him with a smile just before stepping back. "The tests will challenge you in every way possible. When they're over, it will be time to learn your fate. I believe in you, Staniel. The universe has great things in store for those who dare to fight for them."
—"I'm Leofric, a pleasure to meet the candidates," —said Leofric from a podium, his voice deep and kind.
Psychological exam
Initial Identification:
Candidates enter and are identified through biometric scanning (retina, fingerprint, and genetic profile). A holographic interface welcomes them, displaying their access level and objectives for the exam.
Cognitive Evaluation:
Problem-solving tests: Complex scenarios are presented in augmented reality environments, such as managing a crisis on the battlefield, solving mathematical puzzles, and making decisions under pressure.
Staniel had no difficulties passing this test, achieving the highest score.
Memory assessment: Exercises to recall sequences of images, patterns, and data presented quickly.
Creativity and critical thinking: Simulations where candidates are asked to design solutions for battle scenarios, such as technological innovations or combat strategies.
Psychological and Emotional Tests:
Real-time emotional analysis: A helmet placed on the head measures brain impulses and chemical reactions while candidates face emotionally intense situations simulated in virtual reality.
Mental stability: Reactions to scenarios designed to generate stress, fear, or anger are assessed, measuring self-regulation abilities.
Empathy: Holographic tests simulate complex social interactions, evaluating the candidate's ability to understand and support others.
Social Compatibility and Ethics:
Ethical scenarios: Moral dilemmas are projected in simulations where the candidate's decisions are analyzed in terms of collective impact, justice, and alignment with the values of the country of Nortania.
Group adaptation: The ability to collaborate with artificial intelligence and other participants in cooperative and competitive activities is measured.
Results and Feedback:
An advanced artificial intelligence compiles the results in real time, showing a personalized report with scores in various areas: logical reasoning, emotional intelligence, creativity, and stability. It also suggests roles or career paths within the military system.
It took Staniel two days to complete the initial exam. During that time, he was provided accommodation on-site, though he could barely enjoy it due to the constant pressure.
—The mental exam had several stages… but I never thought there would be so many —he muttered to himself, rubbing his temples, trying to calm the buzzing in his head.
The exhaustion was not just physical; his mind was on the brink of collapse after so many tests of logic, strategy, and emotional endurance.
The third day marked the beginning of the physical tests. The cadets gathered in the main plaza. Their faces were a mosaic of tension, fear, and determination. Some exchanged nervous glances, while others stared at the ground, trying to control their anxiety.
Leofric, a high-ranking General known for his cold gaze and unyielding character, stormed onto the scene. His firm tone cut through the air like a knife.
—Next stage, cadets. The physical tests have intensified since the invasion of the unknown organisms that Norstania's scientists have dubbed Vrykals. Prepare to push your limits. Only the fittest will survive this.
Staniel swallowed. A chill ran down his spine. For a moment, he wondered if he had what it took to move forward. Around him, some cadets clenched their fists in defiance, while others seemed frozen in place.
The physical tests were relentless and unforgiving: 40 push-ups, 50 squats, 100 sit-ups, running 10 kilometers carrying 15-kilogram bags. Each exercise was a battle against pain. Staniel felt his arm muscles tremble after each push-up, his legs burned after the squats, and the weight of the bags seemed to increase with every kilometer.
—My body is going to explode... physically and mentally... —he muttered between gasps as he collapsed to his knees after completing a circuit. Drops of sweat rolled down his face and fell to the ground. His gaze was vacant, and for a moment, he considered quitting. But something inside him, a spark of pride or stubbornness, made him rise and push forward.
The days became a succession of impossible challenges. Every night, Staniel collapsed exhausted into his bed, his body aching and his mind filled with doubts. Yet, every morning, he forced himself to stand. Each step he took, each exercise he completed, was a victory over himself.
Finally, after eight grueling days, the moment to know the results arrived. The cadets formed in lines, their faces reflecting a mix of anxiety and hope. When Staniel received his report, he felt the world stop for a moment.
His effort had earned him the rank of Lux Aeternum, Grade 37.
He looked at the paper in his hands, unable to suppress a smile, though his lips trembled from exhaustion. His eyes filled with a mixture of relief and pride. He wasn't perfect, but he had proven to be one of the best.
Of the 600,000 cadets who participated in Sector 1, 599,900 earned the rank of Stellar Guard, designated for frontline soldiers. An exclusive group of 60 people, including Staniel, achieved the rank of Lux Aeternum, reserved for those with leadership potential.
Finally, the 40 most extraordinary were recognized with the rank of Eternal Nexus, the pinnacle of excellence, reserved only for the best of the best, those destined to lead Norstania's special forces. Staniel couldn't help but feel proud. He had reached a rank that placed him above hundreds of thousands, but at the same time, his gaze drifted to the names of those chosen for Eternal Nexus.
—There's still so much for me to learn... —he thought as he closed the report.
He had overcome the first great test, but he knew the real challenge was just beginning.