After Ves and Melkor greeted each other under tense conditions, they settled down in the latter's office.
Melkor took the time to sweep over his old office.
His visor made it difficult for Ves to figure out what he was paying attention to. Was he looking at his academy diplomas mounted on the wall? Was he reminiscing about his youth by watching the projected images of his parents?
Melkor behaved as if he had returned from a hundred-year expedition instead of a few months of action!
"It's difficult for me to get accustomed to peace." He said. "I'm still used to tensing up for the alarm sounds that warn of imminent combat. I've fought off so many sandman fleets that they've even started to haunt me in my sleep!"
"It sounds like you can use some time to retreat to the Cloud Estate."
"I know. I plan to surround myself with family. I have one request, though."
"Say it. You're one of my closest confidants."
