The meeting

In a world like this, humanity must live in both, love and hate. Love alone cannot sustain you; love leads to humiliation. Yet, same for the hate, it breeds only isolation and contempt. To survive and to truly change this world, you must use both as tools, balancing them as a path for you.

"I refuse to accept this world as it is now. I envision a world of true peace, a world without war, where lives are not stolen by systems of injustice. A world where no soul is denied its right to live and flourish. That is my goal – a world where humanity is not shackled by hatred and violence."

But such a dream cannot be achieved with love alone. Love can be crushed too easily in a world like this. To create such a future, I had to sever my emotions. I can't even remember the last time I cried or even laughed. I have cast them aside because there is no room for weakness for a big goal like mine.

On my first night here, I had the same dream. I was running hand in hand with a girl wearing the same necklace that I have. I can't see her face, but I can feel her fear in my mind as I wake up to the sound of my brother shaking me. "Roy, wake up! We can't be late; it's our first day her."

My brother Andrew stood tall, his broad shoulders making him look even stronger. His dark hair was a little messy, falling just above his sharp, focused eyes. A scar traced his jawline, but it only added to his rugged charm. His already dressed his uniform and was brimming with enthusiasm as always.

I looked at the sky and the sun didn't raise yet, I can say that the program will start in 2 hours maybe, then I said.

"Why are you in such a rush? It's still early, and we're inside the camp," I muttered.

"Did you forget, Roy? The royal advisor wants to meet us. Come on, hurry up!"

"Oh, right. I completely forgot. Give me half an hour, and I'll be ready."

I quickly got dressed and got ready. Together, we left our quarters and walked through the camp to the stables.

Waiting for us there was a guide who would lead us to the meeting site. The road didn't take so long, and when we arrived, it was easy to recognize the advisor.

He was surrounded by two towering soldiers, their imposing figures adding to his air of authority.

As soon as we approached, he spoke.

"Roy and Andrew Celgius. It's good to finally meet you. I've heard much about your achievements and the challenges you've overcome. You've impressed many, and I've looked forward to this day. It's an honor to meet you both."

His posture and tone revealed a man of sharp intellect, his presence amplified by a chilling aura of authority. We cannot trust the words of this man and I know that; my brother knows that too. Still, this was an opportunity we couldn't afford to waste.

My brother stepped forward, his composure unshaken, and replied with practiced respect.

"It's an honor to meet you, Minister. We've heard much about your leadership. And to let you know, every success we've achieved is a thanks to your guidance and dedication."

The minister's lips curled. "Such humility; just as I expected from my finest recruits here. Your reputation precedes you, and I've taken a decision that reflects your potential, that what I think so."

He straightened his posture, his sharp eyes settling on us. "In this camp, we form a special force of four to seven individuals, chosen through a rigorous evaluation of physical strength and mental acuity. However, you two are... how could I say it? -- Unique. Because of your exceptional record, I've decided to grant you the privilege of selecting your own team members."

He paused and then said. "But remember, you don't have much time. The first evaluations will begin after a month, and your team must be finalized before that."

My brother looked with a smile at me. He had every reason to feel happy, this opportunity was a game-changer. Being able to pick the members of our team was a big step forward, a chance to strengthen our position.

"Thank you, Minister. We gladly accept this privilege, and we promise you to do our best to meet your expectations," my brother replied with confidence.

The idea of assembling a skilled team is great. If there were capable people in this camp, this could give us the edge that we really needed.

"Excellent," the minister said, his tone as measured as ever. "You may return to your quarter now. Thank you for your time. And remember, our meeting here, was a necessity. Keep that in your mind."

I felt that his words carried a warning. This was more than just an offer; it was a carefully calculated move, and I believe that we would need to tread this carefully.