Mutation, Interrogation

In the Executive Officer's office, one person sat while five stood. A meeting was underway.

As this was a militarized base built to withstand potential nuclear strikes, every inch of space was precious. Even the Executive Officer's office was not particularly large, leaving the five department heads no choice but to stand during the meeting.

Fortunately, everyone here looked decisive and efficiency-driven, so the meeting would not last long.

"Security Department, inspection complete. No abnormalities."

"Tactical Response Department, inspection complete. No abnormalities."

"Logistics Support Department, inspection complete. No abnormalities."

"Medical and Health Department, inspection complete. No abnormalities."

"Education and Training Department, inspection complete. No abnormalities."

The five standing people wore different attire, while the base's Executive Officer, who sat before them, wore a militarist-era Imperial Army officer's uniform. A peaked cap, yellow-green service uniform, black regulation leather boots, complete with epaulets and collar insignia—his rank appeared to be that of a lieutenant general from the militarist era.

This Executive Officer had a sharp gaze and an oppressive bearing, like a drawn tachi.

He swept his eyes over the five department heads and said sternly, "According to yesterday's intelligence briefing, our forces have repeatedly been watched and probed by hostile personnel in recent days. His Majesty's great undertaking has yet to be fulfilled; none of you must let down your guard. You must understand that every single project now concerns the future of the Yamato People, whether our people can break through the cage, wrench free from the cracks, and soar skyward like the sun rising in the east."

"Remember this well: the spirit and bloodline of our people shall never be severed. They say a nation prospers through adversity. Since ancient times, our people have endured natural disasters and the ravages of war, yet we still stand unfallen. Today, the