Clark officially began his assignment the next day, and from the moment he stepped into the role, he fit in as if he had always belonged.
He brought an air of quiet authority with him—never overstepping, never boasting, but every word he said carried weight, and every action had impact.
Within days, his reputation spread throughout the 20th United Stellar Defense Tower.
Within weeks, even the higher-ups took notice.
He worked most closely with Makena, sharing long hours in the strategic command center, reviewing threat assessments, fine-tuning deployment simulations, and coordinating with off-world fleet commanders.
They spent more time together than either had with anyone else in recent years.
And with time, a subtle change began to take root—especially in her.
Makena Davis, once the image of discipline and restraint, began to evolve.
At first, no one noticed the small things.
