We were mentally tested as well, enduring the box exam. We were placed in boxes with just enough space for our body and nothing more. The box was sealed and air was supplied through a small tube that connected at the foot end. Through the headphones placed over our ears, someone would ask us hundreds of exam questions. My chest still gets tight when I think about it.

I used to question the legitimacy of the trials. During my scholar years when I would get frustrated, I would ask how does any of this determine who is fit to lead?

Here is my answer: These trials were for the worst possible outcome.....I’m in the worst possible outcome.

“Forty-five minutes to launch,” Gaiya announces over the intercom.

I guess I let time get away from me. I should have been aboard 30 minutes ago. I quickly turn and take my pod and attach it to my back. I walk over to the night stand pick up my D-MAT and press on it. Immediately I appear on the ship and turn to the controls and see............Isic?

Isic’s back is to me, facing the controls and seemingly working on something.

“Isic, what’s wrong?” I ask.

In the back of my mind I’m prepared to hear there was a last minute solution and that we don’t have to leave. Isic turns around and looks at me.

“You’re late,” he says.

I turn around and put my pod on the wall.

“I know sorry I was trying to take everything in one last t—”