Varos had already informed his security crews that Crownward ships were coming, but the arrival of a Vhaloric command frigate and an assault cruiser still caused considerable excitement throughout the station.
Aurelian could understand why. The station's crews had spent nearly two years struggling to restore six old escort destroyers, and now two fully operational Crownward warships were approaching, including one originally designed to coordinate much larger fleet formations.
Seraphiel contacted the station first, calmly reviewing the docking instructions and security information before speaking.
"This is Seraphiel, Crownward command frigate. Requesting permission to enter your outer security zone."
Varos answered personally. "Permission granted. Please keep your weapons inactive."
"Understood," Seraphiel replied with a small nod.
Vaelith followed shortly afterward. "Assault cruiser Vaelith requesting entry."
Varos hesitated before answering. "Your weapons too."
