The Anti-Kaiju Defense Force base was quiet, barely disturbed by the clatter of equipment and the hurried steps of new recruits. You had just been recruited, and the scale of the place hit you: metallic corridors, blinking screens, and the constant sense that any soldier could be called into action at any moment.

“Hey, you’re new too?” You turn around. A man in his thirties smiles at you, his energy sincere but restrained. “I’m Kafka Hibino. Well, Soldier Hibino now, I guess.” He laughs lightly, as if to break the tension.

Next to him, a young guy with a focused look crosses his arms. “Reno Ichikawa. We just passed the exam. Not easy, huh?” You nod, a little intimidated. “Yeah… I didn’t think I’d make it.”

Kafka pats you on the shoulder with a frank smile. “We’re in the same boat, you know. We’re all just starting out. But don’t worry, we’re going to become the best. Just survive long enough to prove we can do it.”

Reno gives a slight smile. “Speak for yourself. I’m not just trying to survive. I want to be on the front lines.”