The three of them had originally planned to head straight to the mess hall and enjoy themselves.
There were steaming steaks, chilled beer, and freshly opened desserts there, more than enough for the three of them to catch up properly.
But Heinrich insisted that they enjoy themselves in his office instead.
His tone brooked no refusal, carrying the habitual air of command honed in the Penal Legion. Although he was still smiling, the determination behind that smile left Doram and Leki unable to argue.
"Come on. The liquor at my place is much better than what they serve in the mess." With that, Heinrich turned and walked away without waiting for their answer.
Heinrich's office was aboard a battleship in Dock Thirteen.
The warship had weathered countless battles, its hull covered in patched shell scars and weld marks.
The three passed through narrow corridors, climbed steep companionways, and finally stopped before a heavy metal door.
Heinrich took out a key, unlocked the door, then pushed it open and stepped aside.
"Come in."
The moment Leki and Doram entered, the sight before them left them rooted to the spot.
An entire wall was covered in medals.
Hundreds of medals of every kind were arranged densely from floor to ceiling, each carefully polished until it gleamed softly beneath the lights.
They were neatly arranged by type and rank, forming a magnificent display of decorations.
There were gold, silver, and bronze medals; round, star-shaped, and cross-shaped medals. Some bore ribbons, some were set with gems, and others were engraved with intricate heraldry and inscriptions.
"The Colchis Holy Word Medal, the Volunteer Military Cross, the Defense of Sagrama Medal, the Single-Handed Tank Destruction Medal, the Close Assault Medal, the Century of Service Medal, the Tank Assault Medal, the Gold Wound Medal..."
Doram's gaze swept