17.1 FIRST MISSION

“Miss Vega has made it clear what she expects from us,” said the Commander, looking around the table. “Does anyone have anything to add?”

I couldn’t help but glance at Freya. I assumed that how I talked back to Dr. Hansel wouldn’t improve whatever impression she had of me. But to my surprise, although she was still glaring at me, I could sense her hostility had diminished slightly and—was that a faint trace of approval, maybe? I can only suppose it’s because she disliked the doctor as well and enjoyed seeing him put in his place, or she decided to believe what I said about wanting to cooperate.

If I can understand the root cause of her hostility, then maybe we could work something out. I have to try to get along, at least. If we’re expected to work closely in the future, then remaining at odds with my aide would doubtless be disastrous.

No one responded to the Commander’s question, and she took their si