Location: GOC Headquarters – Weaponry Assessment Grounds
The candidates were guided to a vast open training arena filled with the latest state-of-the-art weaponry—plasma rifles, electromagnetic cannons, pulse sabers, and drones that buzzed silently in the air. Engineers and scientists bustled in the background, monitoring energy levels and safety protocols. An electric hum filled the air as the systems powered up.
Tom Linton (Major):
"Well done on completing the first assessment. But don't get comfortable. This stage is where we separate soldiers from survivors. The second test will push your instinct, speed, and accuracy to the edge. You will each enter the Weapon Arena alone. There, hostile drone targets will simulate a live battlefield. Use any weapons at your disposal. Your performance will be judged on precision, adaptability, and kill time."
Lucas (thinking):
This is it. No second guessing.
Nick:
"This is where I shine, baby! Lucas, you better not get shown up by me, huh?"
Lucas (smirking):
"We'll see, loudmouth."
[Round 1: Lucas Millar]
Lucas stepped into the circular Weapon Arena. The doors locked behind him. A voice echoed.
Voice:
"Begin."
Immediately, the floor shifted. Platforms rose, revealing multiple weapons. Lucas's eye quickly scanned his options—ignoring heavy cannons, he picked up a light energy blade and dual pulse pistols. His movements were fluid—he dodged laser shots from drones, countered with deadeye shots, and sliced through two attack bots in midair.
Scientist in Observation Deck:
"His reaction time is near perfect. That left-eye eyepatch… he's compensating incredibly."
Tom:
"Keep an eye on this one."
Within 2 minutes, Lucas had cleared the arena.
[Round 2: Nick Mash]
Nick's round was wild and chaotic. He picked up a railgun and laughed as he blew away targets one by one, ignoring finesse and going for power. His strategy was risky—but effective. He rode a drone at one point, flipping and launching a grenade into a mock tank.
Observers were divided.
"Reckless…"
"But inventive."
Nick emerged, grinning and panting.
Nick:
"How was that, huh?"
[Round 3: Emma Valen]
Emma walked in confidently. She selected a sniper-pistol hybrid and a lightweight plasma whip. Her attacks were calm and calculated. She never wasted a movement. Her final move—hitting three drones at once mid-jump—earned her loud applause from the observation bay.
As the top scores appeared on the display:
Top Three Results:
1. Lucas Millar – Time: 1:57, Accuracy: 97%
2. Emma Valen – Time: 2:10, Accuracy: 96%
3. Nick Mash – Time: 2:25, Accuracy: 89%
Nick:
"Man, second again? I gotta stop letting you win, Lucas."
Lucas (smirking):
"Then stop letting me."
Emma (walking over):
"You're the one with the eye patch, right? Lucas, was it?"
Lucas:
"Yeah."
Emma (offering a hand):
"I'm Emma. I like how you move."
Nick (teasing):
"Oh-ho! The noble speaks to the commoner. What a day!"
Emma gives Nick a playful elbow to the ribs.
---
Night Before the Final Test
That evening, the candidates rested in their bunks, but tension filled the air. Tomorrow was the final and most dangerous test—a real-life simulation designed to test survival in a live combat environment. Some said it was even lethal.
Lucas stood alone in the training yard under the stars, holding his dog tags. His father's voice echoed in his mind.
Dad:
"Once in, you can't come back…"
Nick approached, tossing him a can of soda.
Nick:
"You think we're ready?"
Lucas:
"No. But I know I can't turn back now."
Nick:
"Then let's make sure we both make it through. Together."
They fist-bumped under the stars.