"That was not permission to become unbearable," Neris added before Caelira could say anything else.
Aurelian decided to continue before the conversation wandered any further. "If you want to remain at Helion while deciding, you can. If you want to serve Crownward, we can formalize that. If you prefer a contract without permanently joining the fleet, we can discuss it. And if you want to remain independent after your repairs are complete, that's also your choice."
For several seconds, nobody spoke.
Seraphiel was the first to respond. She leaned forward slightly, her expression thoughtful as she considered the options. "And if we join?"
"You serve under Crownward command during military operations and follow the same basic obligations as the rest of the fleet," Aurelian explained.
"You can refuse unlawful orders, and you aren't owned by the March, by me, or by the Arcturus family."
