-> [A Sea Of Dried Paint] (Classic Edition)

[Chapter 1 - Chosen]

Everything changed after the Inkling's victory in the Great Turf War, after the Octarians were banned to the rocky, mountainous regions of the land. A feeling of despair was constantly present among the inhabitants of the land. Most people were too scared to retaliate, and those who wanted to avenge their kind struggled to get their voices heard.

The only way the Octarians could be united again was through a strong, iron fist. And that's what Octavio did, using his beats, which had a hypnotizing effect. With his race under his rule, he started crafting a plan to get immediate revenge on the Inklings.

As soon as they reach adulthood, all Octarians must go through a military training and eventually join the army, whatever class the person may be. No one gets special treatment.

This made moments of peace and quiet something to truly cherish for the young ones.

-- July 19th, 20XX - Octo Valley. --

Unizo's house.

Unizo Fuaroji was a Octoling boy who had just turned 18 years old. He called his few friends to his house to simply hang out and celebrate the occasion with some games, food and fun overall.

"Can't believe you're already old enough to become a soldier. Time flies, eh?" said a woman wearing a white shirt under a red coat.

"It's like I always said, Abi: when you aren't paying attention to time, it goes zoom." said Unizo, finishing his soda.

Abigail, or Abi for short, was one of Uni's older childhood friends. She always had a passion for fighting, and her talent earned her the title of General sometime after reaching the age of 23. She is also one of the few people who managed to avoid Octavio's brainwashing and still work for the military, by wearing some really convincing replicas.

"Do you know what class you want to go after first?" asked a Young Octoling girl with a more cultural-style outfit.

"No, to be completely honest. I can't really think of something I want specifically." He answered.

The young girl was called Amber, also one of Uni's closest friends. She had a interest in the human japanese culture, and dreamed of being able to fight using a katana. But, considering blades aren't always effective against ink weapons, it seemed unlikely.

"Everyone has a talent, even if they're unaware of it. You'll find yours soon enough." Abigail said, giving a confidente smile.

"I hope it's swordplay! I could be your teacher!" Amber said, making all of them laugh a bit.

"So...how will I deal with the whole hypno-goggles thing?" Uni asked to Abigai.

"I got a replica ready for you, so I'll be able to take the real one off your head once I get the opportunity. My position makes this easier." She responded.

"Am I lucky to have you."

"Yeah, you are." She said, chuckling.

They spent the rest of their time doing things people normally do in a birthday. Including the most important part: eating cake. Hours pass, and eventually, both Amber and Abigail leave. Except Amber was leaving for a trip to another country with her parents, so he won't be seeing her in a while.

Uni changed to his pyjamas and then went to bed. He was a bit worried about the whole goggles ordeal, but he reassured himself that Abigail would come through. He went to bed and fell asleep.

It was a mix of anxiety and excitement. He couldn't wait to use all that he had learned into something that'll possibly shape the future of the Octarians, but he couldn't help but sometimes think...is helping Octavio really the right choice? But he tried to not let the thoughts get into his head until the right time came.