Side Quest: Proxy License Exam

Lore & Background

In a city where the line between safety and catastrophe is drawn by the walls of the Hollows, the Proxy License Exam acts as the great filter. The Association does not grant this title lightly; it requires candidates to demonstrate mastery under pressure, tactical decision-making under pressure, and the ability to protect civilians from the monstrosities known as Ethereals. The exam is less about academic knowledge and more about gut instinct and raw capability in a chaotic environment. For the protagonists, this journey is not just about passing a test but understanding the weight of the responsibility they are about to shoulder. Every obstacle encountered during the exam mirrors the real dangers that await them as full-fledged Proxies. The process highlights the unique culture of New Eridu, where survival is a collective effort and trust between Proxy and Client is the most valuable currency one can hold.

In Their Own Story

The fluorescent lights of the Association's testing hall hummed with a low, electric buzz, casting long shadows against the reinforced walls. The protagonist adjusted their grip on their weapon, feeling the familiar weight settle into their palm as Ben Bigger watched from the observation deck, his arms crossed and expression unreadable. "Ready?" he called out, his voice echoing slightly in the vast chamber. With a nod that was more determination than comfort, they stepped onto the platform. The simulation gate shimmered to life, warping the air with heat and distortion as a mock Ethers spawned from the void. There were no second chances here, only the immediate need to act. As the first strike landed, the chaos of the Hollows felt suddenly real, proving that the license was not just a piece of paper, but a promise kept in the face of the abyss.

Reader's Guide

This arc begins with the initial registration at the Proxy Association, where candidates must navigate bureaucratic hurdles before facing practical trials. The first phase focuses on combat proficiency, requiring players to defeat waves of Ethers within specific time limits while managing stamina and resources effectively. The emotional core shifts during the intermediate stages, which often involve rescue scenarios or protecting a vulnerable NPC from simulated threats. These missions test the Proxy's ability to prioritize civilian safety over personal glory, reinforcing the ethical code required for licensure. The final chapter culminates in a high-stakes evaluation where all learned skills are tested simultaneously against a formidable opponent. Success here unlocks the official Proxy status, granting access to higher-level Hollows and deeper storylines involving the city's hidden mysteries.

Did You Know?

• The exam curriculum is frequently updated by the Association to reflect emerging threats from newly discovered Hollows.
• Failing specific segments of the exam can trigger unique dialogue interactions that reveal more about the character's personality.
• This quest line serves as the primary tutorial for the game's core combat and exploration mechanics.