Aurelian spent the next half hour explaining the Human Continuance Matrix to Cassian, although he left out most of the old experimental records until he could send them through a secure channel.
His father listened without interrupting, which was usually worse than being questioned.
By the time Aurelian finished explaining the treatment system, the sealed commander research, and the first successful test on Elya Sorn, Cassian had gone from mildly curious to completely serious.
"And this machine believes it can treat the strain caused by command advancement?" he asked.
"That is what the records say, but we have not tested that part."
"And it recommends treatment for you."
"Within thirty days."
Cassian looked toward someone outside the channel before returning his attention to Aurelian. "I assume Astra knows."
"She was standing beside me when the recommendation was made."
"Then I do not need to order you to do it."
Aurelian glanced toward Astra.
"No."
