The senior gate guard saluted Elara with practiced formality.
His armor was lighter than base gear, built for resort security rather than open combat. Overlapping plates covered the chest and shoulders, and a compact scanner sat along his forearm.
"Good afternoon, Commander Cross, and welcome to Tuiyaki security access," he said. "I assume your team is here under Federation Force authority."
Elias glanced at Yui, but Yui was already watching the guard's hands.
Elara kept her tone neutral. "We are locating two people who may be at risk, and we need discretion because tourists do not need to hear the words shard user, rebel group, or military extraction today."
The guard's posture tightened. "Are they fugitives, or should local police be brought into the loop?"
