Elizabeth Tanaka, charismatic and composed, sits in the spotlight of a national broadcasting network interview. The studio, bustling with the energy of anticipation, holds its breath as the conversation begins.
"Ms. Tanaka," begins the reporter, her tone warm, "we appreciate you coming in today." Elizabeth nods in acknowledgment. "The announcement that AUSPAC is expanding its reach to the Philippines, the South Pacific, and even just over the ditch, it's a bold initiative, but is it feasible?" The reporter's voice carries a hint of skepticism, coupled with sincere curiosity and a dash of admiration.
Elizabeth's smile doesn't falter, her gaze steady on the reporter. "Thank you for having me. Although it may seem premature, we have the utmost confidence in our preparations and capabilities. We see a need, and we intend to meet it. We cannot merely stand by. We aim to help as many people as possible," she asserts, her demeanor calm yet passionate. Her words resonate with genuine compassion and eagerness to make a difference.
As Elizabeth elaborates on AUSPAC's strategies and plans, the scene pans out to reveal the interview being watched in a tastefully decorated living room. On the plush sofa, Lance watches, a thoughtful expression on his face. Nearby, Sebastian stands, his gaze flitting between the television and Lance.
"She's doing quite well, Master," Sebastian comments, pouring Lance a drink. Lance nods, a faint smile playing on his lips, "Of course, she is." With a flick of his hand, the TV goes quiet, the room bathed in silence.
Standing, Lance walks towards an elevator situated in the hallway, Sebastian trailing him. The digital panel on the elevator only provides one option – down. Lance presses the button, the elevator beginning its descent with a hum.
"Liz is a cornerstone upon which everything we build will stand," Lance mumbles, his voice carrying a soft affection. Sebastian coughs lightly, his words coated with sly curiosity, "Master, if I didn't know better, I'd have assumed you knew Ms. Tanaka before that initial meeting." The inquiry hanging in the air, probing the intriguing closeness between the two individuals.
Lance seems taken aback, a faint blush appearing on his brown skin. The awkward tension breaks as the elevator dings, doors sliding open to reveal another hallway. Wordlessly, they proceed forward, Lance quickening his pace, as if to create distance from Sebastian's pointed question.
Upon arriving at a heavy, secure door, Lance places his hand on a scanner. The device hums, a childlike voice announcing, "Welcome back, Master. Unworthy human, please enter." It's AYRN, the AI developed by Lance that oversees the undisclosed robotics division.