I turned toward Admiral Evans, my voice calm but laced with purpose.
"So… how are our preparations coming along, Admiral?"
"Are we ready?"
"Are you ready?"
"Prepared for your first-ever war… and, simultaneously, your first true trial in this universe?"
"Ah… huh."
Clearly, Admiral Ezar had been caught off guard by my sudden shift in topic — the weight of my question landing heavier than expected. But to his credit, he recovered quickly, straightening his posture with practiced ease.
With a calm, measured voice, he answered:
"To respond to you, Commander — as you already know, our fleet is nearly complete and fully operational. The Void Fleet stands ready, with all seven operational units fully prepped for deployment."
"As for us… we too are prepared."
"Prepared for our first battle — the first true test of our strength in this universe."
He paused, then looked directly into my eyes.
"I won't disappoint you."
"Not now. Not in the battle that awaits us."
