“Commander Kael,” Bruce spoke, his voice firm yet composed. The sound of it broke Meret out of whatever thoughts she had been lost in.

Commander Kael turned his attention to Bruce, maintaining the same calm poise he’d carried since entering the living room.

“I’m sorry,” Bruce began, his tone respectful but unyielding, “but whatever briefing you need to have with Meret this morning will have to wait. There’s something important I need to tell her, and it cannot be rushed. I need ...