Good morning, citizens. Today: the world's game takes a well-scheduled rest, the number market settles generously, a rocket decides to stay a little longer — and, because it's Friday, a moment just for us: the story of a game my family used to play, and everything it taught me. Everything is already wonderful.

Verity is a satirical fiction podcast. Inspired by real headlines:

• The 2026 World Cup Final Is Set. What to Know About Sunday's Match
• Tech stocks lead steep global selloff as investors lose faith ...