Erik was listening to Ben's explanation with interest. It wasn't just that he was a lovely kid, but he was also curious what his own son would have to expect once he starts school. It wasn't news to him that Crayterians were, for the most part, a kind and welcoming people... In the end, the Crayterians' lives in history were built upon a desire to be welcomed by their brethren nations, a wish that was met with hostility at first. Alas, it was definitely a relief to hear this kind of praise from Ben, someone who was new in the Republic.
Ben's interest in sciences was also a notable comment. While Peter would always take interest in his father's work, Erik never had the chance to see his son being really passionate about it. The boy took a lot more after his mother, having the same valiant willingness to defend his own. Of course, he wasn't even seven years old... so who knows.
"If you don't mind, one day, I would like to spend some time in your lab. I bet I could learn a few things there. Would that be OK?"
Erik's face was caught between a smirk and a grin at this point and his reply sounded almost fatherly "Well, of course it would be OK... Some day you might even work in one of those labs if you'll want to. But ... I think you need to stick to school for a few more years first, just so you learn the basics, alright?"
Erik let out a short chuckle as he turned his eyes to Doreen, curious to see any reaction.