[7.5/10] I can’t tell you how I knew it, but something about the vibe in this whole thing convinced me this was a variation on the Kobayashi Maru. That didn’t make it any less enjoyable in the moment though, and I’ll admit that I also had my doubts about my guess at times, which is the sign of good writing. I appreciate the theme of this one. The idea that a starfleet officer has to remain steadfast, even when stakes are high, even when you have a personal connection that tempts you to break protocol, even when you’re talking to a decorated leader. The Starfleet regulation lawyering between Pike and the cadet was well done to emphasize that point, and the direction did a good job of maintaining the tension of their little standoff. At the same time, I like the cadet remaining steadfast even in the face of potential danger and her own husband being at risk. That said, holy hell what a cruel test to put someone though! The short tries to put a fig leaf on it. Pike acknowledges that some could say the test was inhumane but they had to know whether this new recruit could stand her ground with so much on the line. But still, making someone think their husband is doomed is freaking insane. Hell, even just the “we rejected you to test you” thing feels kind of dickish. But whatever, I’m willing to give it a pass for the sake of a good story here. Overall, this was a nice dose of excitement that works in the vignette context, with a neat concept behind it. My favorite short of this crop so far!