Much of Linden's life has been defined by an inability to act or escape. Like most Victors, his big decisions were largely made for him by those in control, ensuring that he just managed to maintain the bare minimum of expected decorum for the minimum amount of time. A lot has changed in the last months, and now he not only expects to have a part in the missions that move and shake Panem's future, he accepts the changes.

For some, that means remaining even when they have the chance to go home, and though Linden was never the touchy-feely type, he joins the throngs of strange and familiar faces and reaches for the nearest hand. It might not be the hand that Tom expects or wants to hold, but if time is of the essence, looking for a spot he'll be welcome isn't a luxury Linden can afford or a comfort he can demand. There have been a lot of sacrifices and heartaches lately, and moving resolutely forward might be the only way to keep the good things in perspective.