Ishikawa climbed out of the rover and entered the earthworks, followed by Reckall. “I appreciate your judging this contest. The men are proud of their creations, and you are the man they were designed for.”

“I’ll need to refer to our overflight scans to make the pick.” Below, tractors were towing pallets of supplies and munitions to the shuttles, and hoses snaked out to them from the underground fuel dump.

“They call this one ‘Shock and Awe’ after an ancient oil war that relied too much on appearances.” The piece menaced the sky with six water pipes, loaded with cans of mixed vegetables.

“This gun would have terrified us,” Reckall said. “We hate greens.”

“While we’re alone, Lieutenant, I have some advice. You asked me to provide EVA-trained personnel for your search; then you changed your mind and did it without even a pilot in case of an emergency.”

“So?”

“A lie can be a potent weapon; but only if it’s believed. I suggest you study Bates—from a safe distance.”