Quasar

Chapter 2: A New Beginning

Forse Nova Station
Act I: Renn

Renn couldn't sleep, so he got up early, got dressed, and mentally reviewed his departure. It wasn't just a change of home; it represented the first step toward something bigger and the only opportunity he had to reunite with his friends, his chosen family. In front of the window, he let the first rays of sunlight illuminate the room and wondered if they would also light the path to them.

Some young people are destined to be part of the elite army forces. To join, each candidate must first study at a special academy where they're trained in piloting spacecraft, combat strategies, using advanced technology, and various other essential subjects. Recruits are generally selected from military families, individuals with special talents, volunteers, and orphans supported by government aid. These individuals train until the age of 18 on Earth before enlisting in the armed forces, then are stationed at space colonies to continue their preparation for war. 

The selected young people face a mix of expectations and social pressure. Many come from families with military traditions and feel the weight of living up to their ancestors. Others, in contrast, are orphans or come from diverse backgrounds, hoping to find a new identity or prove their worth. Renn, as an orphan, felt that his friends were the only thing resembling a family, and every time he thought of them, his determination grew stronger: he would find a way to reunite with them, no matter the obstacles.

***

Renn arrived at the Luna Space Station. In the grand hall, two thousand recruits stood in perfect lines, each waiting to be assigned their destination. Renn looked around, but he couldn't spot any of his friends—only the uncertainty and sadness etched on the faces of the other recruits.

"Recruit number 2355!"

"Yes, ma'am!" replied Renn, his voice laced with nervous anticipation.

The officer checked his documents and handed him a red identification card. Soon, he boarded a vessel bound for a place even farther from the home he knew.

***

As he disembarked at Forse Nova Station, a mix of anticipation and anxiety filled Renn. The idea of spending years training here scared him, yet excited him at the same time. He observed the colony in the distance, and the glow of its lights against the dark backdrop of space reminded him of how far he was from home, even though, for him, home meant something very different. His goal was clear: this was his opportunity to build his own destiny and, in the process, to find those who meant everything to him

Once assigned a small room, he surveyed his new living quarters. It was much smaller than the apartment he had on Earth, containing a compact bed, a closet, a desk, a small bathroom, and a window that framed the distant glow of the colony. Each day would follow a rigorous schedule, starting at 0500 hours with breakfast, followed by physical training, spaceflight strategy classes, combat and medical assessments, and ending with dinner and a brief period of free time before lights out at 2200 hours.

***

The next morning, Renn arrived at the dining hall on time. The hall was vast, filled with metal tables where cadets lined up to collect their food. As he took a seat, the tables around him gradually filled with other recruits. He couldn't help but overhear a boy at the nearby table boasting loudly. This boy, with a proud smile, was recounting his accomplishments as a skilled pilot and his bravery in battle. His friends urged him on, captivated by his stories. Renn thought the boy was full of himself.