He slowly stood from the bed, stretching like a lazy predator. His body was marked with scars and medals, proof of both experience and indulgence.
"Head to the bridge and make sure the fleet is on standby. I'll be there once I'm properly dressed," he added while running a hand through his hair.
Then, with a sideways glance at the officer still standing awkwardly in the doorway, he smirked.
"And if you're quite done staring at the girl, be a gentleman and escort her out, will you?"
The officer gave a sharp nod, turning away quickly with a flustered expression as the woman gathered her things and scurried past him, avoiding eye contact.
The captain, now alone, walked over to his wardrobe and began slipping into his uniform. His smirk never left his face.
"So… the game begins," he muttered under his breath, eyes narrowing as he gazed at the stars beyond his window. "Let's see if these invaders are as fearsome as the rumors say."
