Rising Son

[Haste]

February 17, 820 A.S.
A place to stay

"Ah, there you are."

Rokuro turned to face the man speaking.

"Paul, wasn't it? You're here for a reason, I assume?"

A faint smile could be seen on the recruitment officer's face.

"In fact, I've got good news. Welcome to the LPI, Rokuro. Your badge is waiting for you in your office at Fort Bush." He winked at Rokuro, "I've also arranged a place for you to stay. It's not much, but it's better than - well - this." He waved his hand at the makeshift houses in the refugee camp, "It's down on Manhattan - you'll find the details in your office, as well. A short trip in your Liberator after you pick it up at Fort Bush."

Rokuro nodded.

"Thank you, Paul."

He seemed to think for a while, before continuing.

"I hope I'll like the job."

"So do I, Rokuro, so do I. There's only one way to find out." He signaled Rokuro to follow him, as he started walking towards the exit of the camp, "We'll be taking a shuttle to Fort Bush. Once there, you'll be briefed," he spoke whilst walking, "after that, it'll be time for your first patrol." He paused briefly, "Given your experience with fighter craft, it shouldn't take you too long to get acquinted with the Liberator. It's built to be very user-friendly."

After exiting the refugee camp, they walked towards a nearby landing pad, often used to bring in new refugees. A passenger shuttle bearing the LPI logo had just landed.

"I've still got some business to attend to, so I won't be coming with you." He nodded, "I'd get in. It's leaving soon. Until next time, mr. Mizushima."

Rokuro stepped into the shuttle.

"Thanks again, mr. Rogers."

He pulled in his head, and the door closed. The engines could be heard starting up. The cabin he walked into was surprisingly empty. He took a seat next to a window, and watched as the ground slowly got farther away.