10. Drawing Straws

Complete story — includes the ending

While figuring out the Beamer's controls, the 2nd Mass receives a message that humanity is on the verge of falling and that its best to hide and survive as there seems to be no hope left. Tom refuses to give up however and convinces the 2nd Mass to continue with their mission to take out the Espheni power core, seeing it as their only chance. Tom is faced with uncertainty when the 2nd Mass demand that he offer them a vote on who should pilot the Beamer on the mission to the moon after it is discovered that Cochise cannot go on the mission due to anti-Volm defenses. Tom is initially against the idea as he believes that he should be involved, Anne however convinces him to allow anyone to place their name in contention for the role. That night, with the 2nd Mass gathered Tom draws Ben's name, and his own. Anne however believes he had rigged the draw, which Tom admits stating that he couldn't let Ben go without him. The next day, the 2nd Mass are attacked by Beamers but are saved by Lexi who destroys them with her ability after discovering that she is being used by the Espheni.