The Seedkeepers launched their recruitment drive in the ruins, inviting Earth's strongest and brightest to join their mission. Emma stood on a makeshift platform, her voice steady as she addressed the crowd—a mix of skepticism and desperation reflected in their faces.
"We need you," Emma began, her tone clear and unwavering. "The Seedkeepers can't protect Earth alone. Join us, and we'll train you to fight for your home."
A man in the crowd crossed his arms, his gruff voice cutting through the murmurs. "Who says we want to fight? You left us to the K'tharr. Why should we trust you now?"
Emma exhaled but didn't falter. "I know we failed you," she admitted, her gaze scanning the crowd. "We thought stopping the K'tharr at their source would save Earth. We were wrong. But we're here now, ready to fight for you. And we need your help to make things right."
A young woman stepped forward hesitantly, her sharp eyes betraying her confidence. "I'm Marin Solara," she said. "I'm an engineer. I can build things—fix things. But I'm no fighter. Can I still join?"
Emma's expression softened. "Absolutely," she said with a nod. "We need problem-solvers as much as fighters. Welcome, Marin."
Next came a scarred soldier with a weary gait. "I'm Theo Vance," he said, his voice low but steady. "I've fought raiders, K'tharr—lost everything to them. I want to protect what's left. But I'm not sure I'm good enough."
"You're a protector," Emma replied, meeting his gaze. "That's exactly what we need. Welcome to the Seedkeepers, Theo."
A third recruit surprised the crowd with her quiet resilience. "I'm Elara Trent," she said, brushing hair from her face. "I'm not strong. But I'm adaptable. I've survived by thinking on my feet. I want to help."
Emma smiled warmly. "You've got heart, Elara. That's enough to start with. Welcome aboard."
Finally, the most enigmatic volunteer came forward—a young man with faintly glowing eyes and visible K'tharr modifications. "I'm Vex," he said, his voice tense. "I don't always control it. But I know their tech. I can help."
Emma hesitated, studying him carefully. "You're a risk," she said, her tone cautious but deliberate. "But you've got insight we need. You're in, Vex—but we'll keep an eye on you."
With the recruits selected, the trials began. Survival scenarios tested their ingenuity amidst the ruins; combat simulations against holographic K'tharr challenged their endurance and adaptability. Marin impressed with her problem-solving, Theo with his determination, Elara with her quick thinking, and Vex with his raw potential—though his control faltered under pressure.
Not everyone passed; many crumbled beneath the weight of expectation, highlighting the high standards the Seedkeepers maintained.
Markus stood apart, watching the recruits with folded arms and a deepening scowl. He approached Emma as she reviewed the results, his frustration palpable.
"We're training them for a war they can't win," he muttered, his voice low. "Not if the Quantum Schism arrives. These people aren't ready for what's out there, Emma."
Emma turned to face him, her tone firm but steady. "We're giving them a chance, Markus. They deserve to defend their home."
Markus's gray eyes flared with frustration. "And the galaxy? What happens when the Void Rangers show up, or when the energy spikes at the solar system's edge tear us apart?"
"I haven't forgotten the galaxy," Emma replied, her tone sharp. "But I won't leave Earth defenseless. We need to do this now."
"You're risking everything," Markus warned, his voice low and urgent. "Those spikes—they're getting closer every day."
Emma's gaze didn't waver. "I know the risks. But we're not leaving yet."
As the conversation ended, Emma turned back to the recruits, her mind focused on the immediate task. The hum of the WoodDust resonated louder than ever, vibrating with restless energy. Overhead, the storm clouds darkened, and violet lightning traced jagged lines across the horizon, a silent promise of what lay ahead.