Unknown Narrator: "Decades ago, humanity lived in peace and harmony under the governance of order. We thrived in unity despite our diversity and created a haven on Earth."
Unknown Narrator: "However, peace never lasts... One day, the air fractured as if tearing reality itself like glass. The fracture grew wider like a gate to another realm as creatures of monstrosity gushed out of it — plunging the overworld into chaos."
Unknown Narrator: "Humanity resisted, but it was to no avail. We could not drive these monsters out of our land, and our extinction was almost certain."
Unknown Narrator: "Yet humanity's resilience never wavered. Our ancestors climbed back up to their feet and united under a single banner. Thus, the Global Coalition was formed."
...
The DVD sounds in the background went silent as the officer clapped her hands together — demanding attention.
Dispatcher: "This is why you are here today, recruits. You're the instruments of war and our key to a greater good. Do not fear death, for your sacrifice will not be in vain."
The officers stepped down from the podium, walking down the aisle to inspect the new recruits who had passed their tryouts.
Suddenly, her eyes landed on a particular recruit with bright red hair. And he was... sleeping? While standing?!
The officer's face contorted with rage as she approached him. Without a word, she delivered a strong punch to his face, knocking him to the ground — startled but awake.
Recruit: "Oof!" he yelped, looking up at her with confusion in his eyes.
Dispatcher: "You stubborn fool! You dare sleep during my briefing?! Do you have a death wish?!"
The officer bent down and grabbed the recruit by his collar, forcing him to stand straight while glaring at him.
Dispatcher: "If you act like this in war, those monsters will kill you faster than you can blink! And if they don't, I will be the one to put you in your grave!" She shook his body violently, knocking the wind out of him.
The officer then pushed him aside as he almost stumbled to the ground. She pinched her temple in frustration.
Dispatcher: "Stay here after the briefing. We have something to discuss about manners and ethics in this company." She commanded with a threatening voice.
After the briefing had concluded, every recruit returned to their dormitory. Yet only one recruit remained for correction.
The officer approached the recruit, circling him like prey.
Dispatcher: "Years of serving in this company, never have I met someone who slept while I was talking. Not to mention sleeping while standing up. It's a rare talent. And a dumb one." She stopped a few meters from the recruit.
She leaned in closer.
Dispatcher: "Tell me, what's your name, son?" she asked with skepticism.
Recruit: "William, ma'am!" he answered, gulping down his nervousness. Beads of sweat rained from his head like bullets.
The officer's face turned into a small smirk, taking pleasure in the recruit's nervous expression.
Dispatcher: "William, huh? No, from now on, your name is Roach. Because you're a pest in this company." She took a step closer, challenging him to defy her authority.
William: "Yes, ma'am!" William reluctantly agreed without any retort.
The officer raised an eyebrow; she didn't expect the new recruit to be so compliant with such an absurd codename. She dismissed her thoughts and cleared her throat.
Dispatcher: "Good.. at least you know how to follow orders. Now, about the little stunt you pulled earlier. I will take serious disciplinary action against you for your lack of respect and disregard toward your superior officer."
William closed his eyes, expecting the worst outcomes. Would she make him run a hundred miles? Make him clean the toilet bowl with a toothbrush? Or perhaps worse?
Dispatcher: "But.. I'm in a good mood today, and I don't want to ruin my day with your stupid paperwork. So this is what I'm going to do. I will assign you as a striker for the squad with the lowest performance in this facility."
She reached for a tablet on the table — her fingers moved with precision.
Dispatcher: "I have sent you the information about your new squad to your watch. I expect you to fight with them, return with them, live with them, and die with them. Did I make myself clear?"
William: "Yes, ma'am! I will remember your leniency and honor my squad's name!"
She placed her hand on William's shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze, and gave him a nod of approval.
Dispatcher: "Good. Now get lost before I change my mind." She said it, but there was no heat behind her words.
William saluted and walked out of the briefing room, letting out a sigh of relief that he was not thoroughly punished.
However, he couldn't get it out of his mind that this was only the start of his battle, and that something out there must have been waiting for him...
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