Valor defended Hazel when Sush and Patterson played the recording then disclosed their suspicions of her. The commander insisted that the Deputy Chief Octopus had only ever remained loyal to the hunters and would be the last person to lie or betray them. Refusing to authorize an immediate freeze over her access to the headquarters files and confiscation of her weapons, Valor “suggested” they look further into the matter and find “more plausible leads”. Not even Patterson, who’d been in the commander’s good books, could say anything to change his mind.

After that unsuccessful discussion, Greg brought Sush to the archery range, telling her she deserved some time off which...