S154

The ready room is relaxed. There’s a sense that we’ve done exceptionally well, bulldozing the arena against the best that MC Obel can design to destroy us.

I remember the uncomfortable atmosphere of the ready room before our first mission, the petty trouble between Ezebel and Billie. The two are now sitting side by side watching Tushabe’s hands as he angles them back and forth, explaining some technique for maneuvering in the arena.

Cord is arguing with Mary Beth but laughing frequently. Muli, Genni, and Mikhail are taking turns making changes to a tactics screen. Pavov is discussing something with Genni, who is listening carefully—perhaps about Oreilli and life in general.

I’m proud of them.

I’m surprised to find Mose sitting next to me. “What do you think of your team?” he says.

“I think we’re ready to dominate,” I say.

“We’d better,” he whispers.

On the “morale” line in “Triumph”, write “2”.

Draw a small circle in “Salute”.