========== Praxidike Base’s observation platform, Mount Tsukuba ==========
The sun illuminates the forested mountain where a small viewing platform sticks out, partially-protected by clear cover and is overlooking the peaceful coastal city of Hokota. On the platform is Inami looking out to the town, leaning forward with his hands on a guard rail.
He scans the majestic view of the entire city while heaving a soft sigh, catching the attention of Gerald who happens to walk past behind. He stops and walks onto the platform towards Inami while growing a small smile, tapping his shoulder to direct his attention.
“B-Bastion-san…!” Inami greets with a startle.
“You know… You’ve been of great help to the Minerva Project for the past years, Arisawa.”
“Ah… Thank you. Well, I didn’t do much but piloting it since the prototype stages.”
“A test pilot’s efforts are far more valuable than anything that the resulting data can offer… Remember that.”
“The pilot’s… efforts?”
Gerald nods.
“That’s right. In every test piloting scenario, no matter how powerful or expensive the testing equipment is, the most important of them all are the lives of the test pilots themselves.”
“I see…”
Inami looks back to Hokota while Gerald turns around and walks towards the door. He pauses then looks over his shoulder to Inami.
“Another thing, Arisawa.”
“Yes…?” He looks to Gerald.
“You’ve been longing to see your friend, right?”
“Eh…? Well, I…”
“For the time being, why don’t you pay her a visit? You may bring the Minerva with you as well.”
“Bastion-san…?”
He turns around and sees Gerald lightly nodding his head.
“You heard that right. I’m giving you full authorization to the Minerva.”
“Is it really all right…?”
“Of course, we can trust you to guard our secrets, right?”
The two hears footsteps and looks to the door, seeing Jinrai stepping onto the platform.
“Jinrai-san…?”
“Sorry, couldn’t resist eavesdropping. Then again Inami, you may see this as a recon task. By stationing you at Hokota, you’ll be able to respond to any direct threats immediately.”