Eventually I stood.
Gerald noticed immediately.
"I suppose that's my cue."
I nodded.
"I've already taken enough of your time."
The old man barked out a laugh.
"My boy, I created this settlement specifically because I had too much time."
He rose to his feet as well. The old man stood surprisingly straight despite the white hair and beard. More importantly, now that I knew what to look for, I could feel the immense weight hidden beneath his relaxed demeanor.
The worlds below us weren't a miracle. They were evidence of a man whose mastery over space bordered on absurdity.
Gerald followed my gaze and immediately understood what I was thinking.
"Don't."
"What?"
"Start treating me like some ancient wise sage."
His expression became suspicious.
"I hate when people do that."
I smiled.
"Isn't your title literally Gerald the Wise?"
"That was different."
"How?"
"I gave myself that title."
Eventually his amusement faded slightly.
"Take care of yourself."
