You know what I love most about Mars? They still dream. We gave up. They're an entire culture dedicated to a common goal, working together as one to turn a lifeless rock into a garden. We had a garden and we paved it.
They couldn't do any of that without the knowledge of centuries from Earth. Earth must come first.
I have no choice about that now. My diplomatic credentials have been revoked. I've been banned from Mars for life. Apparently I'm an alarmist who caused the MCRN to expose classified stealth technology hubs. Craig called the realtor about selling our house this morning.
We may have stopped a war. For a while, anyway. If you like, we can drink it now.
I was looking forward to drinking our wine, watching the sunset over the Mariner Valley. Do you remember You were very young, a couple of us played cards at your house?
I remember I didn't like to be excluded.
Well, you always lurked on the side, quiet, obedient but watching. Finally one night, you demanded to play, and, well, we'd had a few and You were I don't know... [holds up hand] However old that is. We let you in. You didn't take any hands, but you clearly understood the fundamentals. When the deal came to you, you called your game.
Tennessee Three Finger Hold 'Em.
Your father took it very seriously. He asked you how to play. You said, "We each get five cards." You dealt them out, then you pointed to the far end of the yard and you said, - now - "Whoever gets to the tree first, wins." You dropped your cards and were halfway there before anyone else realized what was happening. I've never seen your father more proud. See, here's the thing. I was terrified for you, I didn't know why. And now I do. You will do anything to win. Just like your father. That's what got him killed. I won't play with you, ever again.
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