Thirteen Years Later, Two Blue Competition Badges Answered Every Question

They underwrite the hall and the medals.” Arthur stacked the extra packets and squared them.

“The academy pays an entry fee, and the fees go into a pool.

That’s how these run now.”

“So the academy’s money is all over this.”

“The academy’s money is on the banner.

It doesn’t get a vote on the score.”

Eli sat up straight.

“We earned our spot just like everyone else.”