The scene shifted, and Gabriel found himself standing in a richly furnished study lined with books and maps. Night pressed against tall windows, and across a mahogany desk his father sat, still in full general's uniform.
The golden epaulettes on General Everett Tempest's shoulders and the neat row of service ribbons on his chest glinted in the firelight.
"Congratulations on your commission," General Everett said in a low, authoritative voice. "Top of your class, just as we planned."
Ken stood stiffly with his hands clasped behind his back. "Thank you, Father." Despite the informal setting of a private study, he couldn't help remaining at attention before the man he both admired and feared.
The general's stern expression softened a fraction. "You've made the family proud. The Edgeburne military needs officers like you." He paused, then added gravely, "And it will—just not in the way you think."
Ken blinked, confusion in his eyes. "Sir?"
