"What happened?" She asked me in a soft spoken tone, her voice seeming to be filled with concern. I just stared into the distance. I wanted to speak, to let her know I'm a survivor of the Death Game. But I just couldn't bring myself to . I was too weak. So I just sat there, trying to work up the strength to speak. When I felt I could speak, I tried. But the words didn't form, and all that came out was a choked sob. I just sobbed what little more I could, shutting my eyes tightly. 'Why? Why can't I be free damnit?!' I screamed in my head. I could barely feel it happen, but I remember Sinon placing a hand on my shoulder and pulling me into a hug. I don't recall what happened next. Maybe I returned the hug. Maybe I didn't. I do recall the words she said to me. "It'll be ok. You're safe now." The same words that I couldn't say to myself, being told to me by someone who didn't know me. For once, I didn't deny it. I was safe. Free of the haunting idea of a virtual death becoming my real death. At least, for now. I don't know why, but I felt I could relax. Maybe it was the aftermath of breaking down, or maybe it was something my mind didn't think of. Regardless, I remember growing tired, slowly losing consciousness. I wanted to sleep, to just rest. Nothing bad could happen. I remember muttering something to Sinon, but the exact words elude me. The next thing I know, I'm opening my eyes in my room. Ever so slightly. Taking the Amusphere off and setting it aside, I stare up at the ceiling. Thoughts start to drift away from mr as the world turns black and I fall asleep.

(This is long overdue. I'd be surprised if anyone reads this anymore)