Snippet #2023588

Yet another fateful aspect that had fled from Eli ever since Mars. Smoking cigars were a past time for Eli, lost long ago a midst fields of rust. Maybe he could accept the offer from the commander, after all it was given to him out of respect or perhaps casually. Since it came from the commander though, he could politely accept it and hopefully make amends with himself. As with all steps, he would take them in stride, with his head up and facing forward not looking backward.

"Thank you, sir, I'll save this for later," he took the offered cigar and stashed it away in one of his suit's compartments. He decided that the first day they would hit planet side, he would pull out that cigar and smoke it. He made a mental note to remember that.

"Sir, I've never commanded any more than a handful of marines, so I wouldn't know anything about being a commander at your level. The fact that you're in charge here speaks volumes in itself," Eli continued.

"Although I've never seen you command first hand, I trust in your abilities and leadership, and I will make a note of that sir." he paused.

"I can only hope though, that no one will be left behind."

Eli began to feel a certain respect for Atomsk, who was not unlike himself. He would admit that few could command his respect, but that was only boastfulness coming from Eli. Even if it was true though, Atomsk would be one of a few, and that made him stand apart from the many commanders that Eli had been rotated around through.