Ragnora's face turned from crimson to something approaching purple.
"Isabelle, you misunderstand—that's not—I wasn't trying to—"
"It's alright, Commander." Isabelle patted her arm with sisterly affection. "I understand completely. Just enjoy yourself."
And before Ragnora could stammer out another denial, Isabelle had already turned back to the clerk, looping her arm through the bewildered woman's elbow and steering her away.
"Now then! Tell me everything about the western sector. What kind of monsters should I expect? Are there any particular formations I should be aware of? This is my first proper mission, you know—I'm terribly excited!"
"Oh, and will there be lunch provided, or should I pack something? I make excellent sandwiches. My husband says they're the best he's ever had, though he might be biased..."
Her cheerful chatter faded as she led the dazed clerk away, leaving Cassius and Ragnora standing alone together in the middle of the command center.
