“One thousand metres,” Lorn said.
The voice was computer-generated, of course, but he still thought he detected a hint of disapproval as it said, “Please confirm, Umlorn. Minimum-altitude bailouts are inherently more dangerous than mid-altitude bailouts. Recommended range for bailouts is between 20,000 and 3,000 metres.”
“One thousand metres,” Lorn said again.
“One thousand metres confirmed, Umlorn.” said the voice. He almost expected a resigned sigh. “Current altitude 43,523 metres. Rate of descent is currently 51.2 metres per second. Please enter the belly escape hatch and lie face down, Umlorn.”
Lorn turned his head and looked to where Kiri still sat in her acceleration couch. She had twisted her own head around to see him. He gave her a wave and a thumbs-up. She smiled weakly. Then
