After the meeting, Gilad asked Beckman to stay behind.
He looked at the spirited, dashing Beckman and nodded in satisfaction, a faint smile gradually appearing on his face.
"Your deduction just now was very valuable. I'll submit it to Congress under your name. Heh! You certainly live up to Lord Victor's expectations. Your performance did the Victor Family proud."
As with families such as the Kruzes and the Assads, the heads of Twin Stars' ancient families were usually referred to by their surnames rather than their given names. Councilor Victor was the current head of the Victor Family.
And Victor Beckman was the Victor Family's direct heir, as well as Councilor Victor's grandson.
"You flatter me, Lord Gilad."
"Heh! By the way, how has Lord Victor's health been lately?"
"Grandfather's in excellent health. I heard he recently got me an eighth new grandmother. The under-twenty kind." Beckman shrugged.
"Er... ahem! Lord Victor certainly remains vigorous in his old age. Truly enviable..."
Gilad coughed and changed the subject. "Have you familiarized yourself with the General Staff's work? How are you getting along with your colleagues?"
"I prefer fighting on the front lines to working in the General Staff. As for those colleagues, heh... they're mediocrities, not worth my time." Beckman smiled disdainfully.
Rather than taking offense at his arrogance, Gilad looked faintly approving.
Only the talented had the right to be arrogant. Those without confidence needed to be humble. With Beckman's talent and status, keeping a low profile would only invite contempt.
Besides, Gilad knew perfectly well what the General Staff was like.
Could anyone really expect a phoenix to emerge from a place where the children of officials and the wealthy went to polish their credentials?
"Lord Victor is concerned for your safety. Reinforcements from the rear will arrive soon.