Chapter 504 The tests (9)
After leaving room D8, Erik proceeded down the sprawling complex's metallic corridor toward his final challenge for the day - room F2. The puzzle test was behind him, his mind still pleasantly humming from the recent mental exertion.
The contrast between the building's icy, sleek steel and the gentle hum of energy fields gave the modern facility an uncanny blend of futuristic and impersonal qualities.
As he walked, his mind turned to the forthcoming test. It was unlike the previous ones in its nature. Not a battle against mechanical foes, not a test of his knowledge of ores or his ability to solve intricate puzzles. Instead, it was a battle of ideologies and values—an interview while he would be assessed for his alignment with the guild's ideals.
Erik felt this would be much more challenging than any other physical test. The guild was a very old organization, and its core principles had been ingrained in the history books for a long time.
The values of respect, integrity, cooperation, and courage were more than just buzzwords; they were the foundation upon which the organization was built. To successfully navigate this labyrinth of beliefs and principles would require more than just a display of strength or intelligence.
The examination room's (F2) door opened as he approached, and his examiner, a middle-aged man who exuded a commanding sense of authority, met him with an unwavering gaze.
He greeted him respectfully, aware that this was part of the test. Every word, every gesture, was a reflection of his character, and Erik knew he had to tread carefully.
Much like the guild building, the room was very simple and up-to-date in design. The only table in the center was illuminated by light coming from above. A couple of comfortable ergonomic chairs finished off the setup, giving the place the look of an interrogation room rather than a testing area. When the other person asked Erik to sit, he complied immediately.
"Name?" the examiner asked.
"My name's Erik Kay, sir," he said, looking at the man. The examiner turned to look at the young man.
"Erik Kay, you say? Your name has become somewhat of a buzzword in the guild today," the examiner replied, his tone amused. "Your previous test results have been nothing short of outstanding after all."
Erik shrugged nonchalantly, pretending to be unconcerned. "I wouldn't say that. I did what was necessary. Anyone could have done the same."
He said the words casually, but he was fuming inside. He was aware that his performances were noteworthy, but becoming a topic of discussion was not in his plans.
Attracting attention, no matter how positive, meant attracting scrutiny, which he couldn't afford.
Erik maintained a calm exterior despite the storm of thoughts brewing inside. He reminded himself of his goal: a good life in Etrium. He needed these high scores for that, even if it meant standing out a little more than he would have liked, but not to the point of people talking about him.
The guild was one thing, but Erik was more concerned about the outside world, particularly Frant.
However, the situation had a simple solution. As long as his face remained unseen here, he would be safe. He glanced at the man before him, a silent vow etched on his face.
Once this interview was over, he'd activate his Chameleon Veil brain crystal power and disappear. Like a ghost, he'd be there one moment, gone the next – invisible, unnoticed, untraceable; with the system's help, there wouldn't be problems too.
His extraordinary scores would be nothing more than whispers on the lips of those who had never seen him in person. He would become an enigma, a phantom candidate in the guild tests.
"Erm, excuse me, sir," Erik began hesitantly, shifting his gaze from the man's face to his hands clasped tightly on his lap.
"Yes, Mr. Kay?" The examiner responded, a hint of curiosity glimmering in his eyes.
"I was wondering," he paused, gathering his thoughts, "if it would be possible to...to keep my details confidential?"
His request hung in the air, a soft plea seeping into the room's calm atmosphere. Erik kept his gaze fixed on his hands, the intertwining of his fingers an unconsciously anxious dance.
Erik's features were slightly surprised as the examiner looked at him. "Confidential?" he asked, leaning back in his chair, his fingers intertwined in thought.
"Yes, sir," Erik said, finally raising his head to meet the examiner's gaze. "Regardless of the outcome of this interview, I'd like to keep my personal information private." I don't want to draw too much attention."
There was a brief silence as the examiner considered Erik's request. Erik's mind was racing with 'what ifs' for a brief moment. What if they say no? What if his unusual request drew even more attention to himself?
The only sounds that filled the space were the humming of the air conditioner and the soft whirring of the nearby computers. The overhead lights cast a harsh, sterile glow, making the atmosphere appear even more intimidating than it already was.
Finally, the examiner broke the silence with a gentle yet firm voice. "Erik, you've got some outstanding test results that have gotten you a lot of attention. Furthermore, this would be a massive opportunity for you, as the guilds will compete to get you to sign a contract. You could become wealthy quickly," the examiner said.
"I'm sorry, sir. I know what you're saying is true, but I already have my plans, and all this attention will only thwart them. Again, I insist that my personal information not be shared with the guild. I can live with the scores leaking, but not with the rest. Please."
"I understand your concerns, and I'll see what can be done about it," the man said with a pensive look.
The tension seemed to lift somewhat from Erik's shoulders. This was as good as he could hope for. For now, at least. His future in Etrium seemed a little more secure, and that was all he could ask for.
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