Chapter 223 Selection Process
Today marked the first official day of training for the Noctis Network, and the atmosphere within the sanctuary was buzzing with anticipation. This was no ordinary day; it was the beginning of something monumental, a step forward that would expand the sanctuary's influence and secure its future.
Everyone was aware of the importance of the day, but none more so than Kael, who was currently engaged in a critical conversation with Alexa.
In a quiet corner of the sanctuary, Kael and Alexa stood facing each other, the weight of their discussion evident on their faces. Kael had chosen Alexa for this role because of her previous experience, but now that the time had come, he wanted to ensure she fully grasped the importance of her new position.
"Alexa," Kael began, his voice serious but calm, "you've handled situations like this before, so I know you're up to the task. But I need to stress how important your role is in the Noctis Network. You're going to be the face of this operation, the one who bridges the gap between the sanctuary and our squads out in the field.
Every decision you make, every piece of information you relay, will have real consequences. Lives will depend on you."
Alexa nodded, her expression focused. "I understand, Kael. I've been trained for this. You can count on me."
Kael studied her for a moment, gauging her confidence. He could see the determination in her eyes, the resolve that had driven her through her dark days in the dungeons of Arenthia. "I have no doubt that you'll do an excellent job," he said, his tone softening slightly. "But remember, this isn't just about giving orders or relaying messages.
You're going to need to be adaptable, quick-thinking, and decisive. The Noctis Network is going to rely on you to keep everything running smoothly."
"I'll be ready," Alexa assured him, her voice steady. "I won't let you down."
Kael smiled, a rare expression for him, and gave her a nod of approval. "Good. I'll leave the rest in your capable hands."
With that, Kael turned his attention to the second highlight of the day: the selection process. Canna, Vorgrim, and Grimruk were already in position, ready to address the warriors of the sanctuary. This was an important moment, not just for Canna but for the entire sanctuary.
The warriors were eager, their eyes filled with anticipation as they gathered in the clearing where Canna would deliver his speech.
Canna stood on the stage, the towering figures of Vorgrim and Grimruk flanking him. Their expressions were stern, their auras radiating seriousness. The atmosphere was heavy with the understanding that what was about to be said would carry great weight.
Once the crowd had settled, Canna began his address. His voice carried across the assembly, firm and clear, cutting through the murmurs and bringing a hush over the gathered warriors.
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"Warriors of the sanctuary," Canna began, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. "Today, we take another step forward in our journey. The Noctis Network, which we are establishing today, will be our eyes and ears beyond the sanctuary. But it will be more than that—it will be our shield, our sword, and our voice in the world outside."
The warriors listened intently, hanging on his every word. They could sense the gravity of the moment, the significance of what Canna was asking of them.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om
"We are in need of shock troops," Canna continued, "warriors who will go beyond our sanctuary, who will represent us, and who will act as the first line of defense against any threat that may come our way. This is not a mission to be taken lightly. Once you step outside the sanctuary, you will not only represent yourselves but the sanctuary as a whole. Your actions will reflect on all of us."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "The responsibility is heavy, and the risks are great. You will be expected to undergo a training regimen that will test you in every way possible—physically, mentally, and spiritually. This training will be unlike anything you've faced before. It is designed to break you, to push you to your absolute limits, and beyond.
Only those who persevere will emerge as one of the sanctuary's finest warriors."
The crowd murmured quietly, the seriousness of the task before them settling in. Canna's expression softened slightly as he continued, "I know many of you are eager to prove yourselves, but this is not something to rush into lightly. That is why I am making it clear that only those who are eighteen years or older will be allowed to participate.
Those of you under eighteen still have time to grow, to learn, and to become stronger. Your time will come, but for now, focus on your training and education."
The younger warriors looked disappointed but nodded in understanding. They knew that Canna was looking out for them, ensuring they were truly ready before facing such a daunting challenge.
"For those of you who are of age and wish to take on this responsibility," Canna said, his voice steady and resolute, "know that the path ahead will be difficult. You will be tested in ways you cannot imagine. But if you succeed, you will be part of something greater than yourselves—a force that will protect not just this sanctuary, but the ideals and the future we all believe in."
Vorgrim stepped forward, his deep voice adding to Canna's words. "The training will be brutal. You'll face trials that will test your resolve, your courage, and your strength. We will push you to your breaking point, and then we'll push you further.
This is not about just surviving—it's about thriving in the face of adversity, about becoming the kind of warrior who can stand against any enemy, no matter how powerful."
Grimruk followed with a stern nod. "You'll be trained in survival, combat, strategy, and endurance. You'll learn to fight not just with your body, but with your mind. You'll be expected to adapt, to overcome, and to lead. If you can't handle it, this isn't the place for you. But if you can, you'll emerge from this training as one of the sanctuary's elite."
The warriors exchanged glances, the weight of what they were committing to evident in their expressions. But there was also a determination in their eyes—a burning desire to prove themselves, to rise to the challenge.
Canna looked out at them, pride swelling in his chest. "This is your chance to step up, to become something more. If you're ready, then prepare yourselves. The training begins soon."
With that, Canna stepped down from the stage, leaving the warriors to contemplate what lay ahead. The crowd slowly dispersed, each warrior deep in thought about the decision they would soon have to make.
Meanwhile, Kael continued his preparations, coordinating with the dwarves to begin construction on the information center. He also had a meeting scheduled with Alexa to discuss the finer details of her role. There was no time to waste—every moment counted as they worked to bring the Noctis Network to life.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the sanctuary, Canna found himself reflecting on the day's events. This was a turning point, not just for the sanctuary, but for everyone who called it home. The challenges ahead were daunting, but Canna had faith in his people. They had proven themselves time and time again, and he knew they would rise to the occasion once more.
With the Noctis Network in place, the sanctuary would be safer, more connected to the outside world, and better prepared for whatever the future held. It was a bold step forward, one that carried great risks but also great rewards. And as always, Canna was ready to lead the way.