The inspection had gone without a hitch, and the Magitek Research Facility was rapidly completed within days. That was great news for the scientists working there. I on the other hand, was getting ready to send my completed report to the council. I was in my office, getting dressed in my formal uniform and making sure everything on in order. Once I felt I was good to go, I headed for the door and opened it. There stood a young man with a large burlap bag, his hand raised to knock on my door. He stared awkwardly at me for a moment before composing himself.

"Sir, the Emperor has requested your immediate presence!" the young lad announced. I nodded at him and he scampered off to finish delivering mail and whatnot. I suppose I could give my full report to the Emperor directly.

I walked down the carpeted hall, passing by portraits of old heroes and generals. Several soldiers greeted me with a salute as I walked past them.

I made it to the throne room and poised myself before nodding at the guards to open the double doors. I walked in with my head held high, approaching the throne where Emperor Gestahl sat. I paused at the bottom of the three steps, getting down to one knee and bowing my head.

"Please stand, inspector," I heard the Chancellor call. I stood up, straightening out my uniform and standing at attention.

"You've requested for my attendance, Your Majesty?" I asked. The Emperor gave a nod.

"I heard you've finished your report," he responded. "Speak." I opened the folder in my hands and read off my report. I was five minutes into my report when the Emperor stopped me. I gazed up at him, waiting for him to speak. "Tell me, inspector. How would you feel overseeing the facility?"

I blinked at him for a second. "Am I being reassigned, Your Majesty?"

The Chancellor spoke up, "You know the facility inside-out, and you have a good eye for people. It'd be a great opportunity for you."

"I agree," the Emperor added. "Oversee the facility and the infusion project. I need you to report to me weekly."

"I will do as you ask, Your Majesty," I bowed my head. I gazed up and the Emperor had dismissed me. I turned to leave the throne room. I headed down the hallway, wondering why I was being reassigned. I made my way out of the fortress of a palace.

I paused to look over at the courtyard, where new recruits were being inducted into the army. I couldn't help but to smile. I remember when I left Albrook to join the Gestahlian army. It's been years since I climbed up the ranks and eventually landed this spot as head inspector. Most of the new lads down in the courtyard looked about fourteen years of age. Just about the right age to join the military, I'd say.

I heard footsteps approaching me and I turned to my right to see who it was. It was a young blond man in military attire. He stared up at me with brilliant blue eyes.

"Afternoon, Lieutenant," he greeted with a salute.

"At ease, soldier," I dismissed his salute and he put his arm down. "What business has you here?"

"I'm heading to the supply closet, sir," he promptly replied.

"Ah, they stuck you with latrine duty?" I asked, giving an amused smile.

"Yes, sir," he said, a subtle frown creeping onto his lips. I only chuckled lightly and patted him on the shoulder.

"What's your name?" I asked.

"Private Palazzo, sir," he responded.

I nodded and said, "Well, Palazzo. Here's a little tip: climb the ranks as quickly as you can."

He gave a nod and I could almost see his mind take in my advice with much consideration. We had a bit of idle chatter and went our separate ways.

I was heading for the council room to give my report on the Magitek Facility. What a strange turn of events. I suppose a little change up in my job description couldn't hurt. After all, I just had to babysit scientists, right?