He appeared to be standing on the command deck of the Oblivion. His posture was upright, composed, and dignified.
He was the first to speak.
"Good day to you, Mr. William," Grand Admiral John Watcher began, his voice calm and composed. "Allow me to thank you—on behalf of the Human Federation—for your timely intervention and the rescue of the Red Horizon fleet. You didn't have to act… but you did. And for that, the Federation is deeply grateful."
After finishing his words, John gave a slight bow—not deep, but just enough to convey respect. Though a man of his rank didn't need to bow to anyone, he still chose to.
Because he wanted to make something clear: this is how the Federation treated those who had done it a true service. And what William had done was no small matter.