It's been an odd week back at the Tribute Center, mostly because of how quiet it all seems. Sure, Gary wasn't the first to die, not by a long shot--but most of his closer acquaintances are still in the Arena when he died in the middle of week one, and those that come back are not nearly as chipper to be back where the food and shelter are reasonable as he has been. Gary wonders if he should be disappointed that they're not around, disappointed that he didn't last as long as they did, or happy that his friends are succeeding where he's failed. Ultimately he decides to focus on immediate events instead. That usually works out.

Today is a good example. It's a bit too early for drinks, he thinks, until he sees Nill sitting alone at a table. Gary's expression immediately brightens. Ah, but she's not looking too happy, and doesn't have anything interesting sharing the table; maybe he should prepare for something a bit more involved. Gary orders a coffee and makes his way over in short order.

"Hi!" That's the only warning Nill gets before Gary pulls out a chair and joins her on the opposite side. He's blocking the television, but not on purpose. "How's it going?"