They crouch under the west-most dock – old hiding spot, crushes carved into the planks: Alysia + Seamus, Annie + Carson. To Annie it is a wonder that they are still a pair – now Annie is pale and lithe where Alysia is dark and strong, now they wear brassieres and throw knives, now they knew words like "tessera" and "trident," now Alysia has been chosen tribute. Now Alysia confesses: she can't do it. Now Annie says, I love you. Annie says, I'll volunteer.
Alysia laughs like gratefulness and harshness together. "Always knew your big heart would kill you, Cresta."
Almost does.