Joel is possibly in the worst position of his life. He's just won his last arena, Victor all the way. But it's ashes in his mouth, because he couldn't save Ellie, and now she's going in there while he's stuck out here, dressed up in what's supposed to look like a goddamn bear suit or something, his hair artfully unkempt, and he keeps to the corners, trying his damnedest not to watch the footage or listen to the noisy, boisterous commentary -
But at the same time, compelled to watch. Compelled to try and spot Ellie, to see how she's doing, to root for his baby girl.
He hates this.
The young woman is new - probably arrived to late to be sent into the arena this time, she's got the fortunate - or unfortunate - ability to watch what goes on before she has to experience it herself.
"Wouldn't make you stand out in this crowd," he offers on a low mutter.
no subject
But at the same time, compelled to watch. Compelled to try and spot Ellie, to see how she's doing, to root for his baby girl.
He hates this.
The young woman is new - probably arrived to late to be sent into the arena this time, she's got the fortunate - or unfortunate - ability to watch what goes on before she has to experience it herself.
"Wouldn't make you stand out in this crowd," he offers on a low mutter.