Chapter 25: Conflict of interest
"Before I see what?" a voice interrupted, deep and commanding yet tinged with warmth.
Elias turned toward the source, and his breath caught for a moment. Warden Commander Geras stood in the doorway, his uniform pristine and his posture unwavering. His silver hair gleamed under the lights, hinting at age, but his sharp features and broad frame exuded strength and vitality.
"Whoa, this guy doesn't look a day over 50... maybe," Dot's voice whispered in Elias's mind, almost awed. "Must be all that military discipline."
Geras stepped into the room, his presence filling it effortlessly. "Let's not waste time. Bring him in."
Elias stepped into the office, the door clicking shut behind him. The room was surprisingly understated, the desk functional and the walls lined with shelves displaying plaques, medals, and framed photos. Dot's floated beside him, her tiny figure gliding curiously around the room.
"Wow, this place is... plain. I was expecting something more dramatic for a guy with such a title," Dot's muttered, inspecting a picture of a much younger Geras flanked by soldiers.
Elias ignored her, focusing instead on the man seated at the desk. Warden Commander Geras leaned forward slightly, his sharp eyes fixed on Elias.
"It's good to finally meet you, Elias Kael," Geras began, his tone warm yet firm. "Though I never imagined it would be in such a polished setting. I must say, you're the spitting image of your father."
Elias froze for a moment, gripping the fabric of his pants as memories of his father surfaced unbidden. He forced himself to respond, his voice steady. "Mourning his loss was tough. Especially since we never got his body back. And with the public all but forgetting about Cradle Planet, it made his death feel... pointless."
Geras slapped his desk, the sound echoing through the room. "No. Not at all. Your father's sacrifice wasn't meaningless. Dorian Kael fought for what he believed in, and though Cradle is as good as gone, his spirit shone brightly. Whenever he was around, nothing seemed impossible. He'd find a way through the worst and come back smiling."
Elias looked away briefly, swallowing the lump in his throat as Geras continued.