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Splash set the tablet in the middle of the Conference Table. The screen glowed blue — icy blues — snowflakes, rinks, and the sort of frozen theater that pauses a nation.

He raised his hand over it, then pointed at Miles.

Our Section Leader was reclined in his ergonomic throne, watching a faster ice sport than the Canada–UK Curling Gold match that had paralyzed production earlier in the week after the shouting about the Women’s hockey Gold..

“As Yanks,” Rocket said, “we don’t really understand the scoring on the Curls.”

“Or the stones,” added Melissa. “Granite ovals sliding endlessly down a polished rink. No one brushes the stone. They brush the ice.”

“It’s hypnotic,” Splash muttered.

The Canadians beating the Brits had only been prelude. The real matter was this morning: American men against Canada, double Gold on the line, hoping to join the Sisters atop the hockey podium. Face-off was 0800 EST. Coffee levels rose accordingly.

The more devout had made modest Lenten adjustments. The quart jars and festive mini-bottles near the galley plant were untouched — Miles’ decree. A seasonal austerity.

By mid-morning, some had boarded the Company bus en route their weekly spiritual journey. Fairfax Church for the non-denominational set — “Active Worship,” they call it. The Catholics headed further off, headed to Vienna for Saint Mark’s. On adventurous Sundays, they choose the other St. Mark’s. That one has a grocery store.

Convenience and liturgy. A workable blend.

Miles stood at the half in the hockey game. “Still tied. Hard skating. One scrum in front of the Canadian net that nearly went kinetic.”

“Are we writing today?” Holly asked. “USS Ford carrier group just entered the Med. Launch points by Tuesday, they say.”

“President gives Tehran ten days to two weeks to stop enriching,” Rocket said.

“That has a religious tint,” Melissa added. “The new Islamic-led city government in New York didn’t attend the Archbishop’s installation. First time in a century the mayor skipped it.”
Miles nodded. “Metro area is mostly Christian. A third Catholic. Seven percent Jewish. Fewer Muslims.”

“So is it a signal?” Splash asked. “Or not?”

“Depends what holidays he shows up for next,” Miles replied.

Those who had gone to worship returned quietly. Splash’s gaze drifted toward the little bottle of Sugarland Sipping Crème within reach.

A thunderous hit exploded through the speakers — boards rattling.

“Still tied,” said Miles.

A pause.

“Pray for Gold.”

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