"Assume success," says Bruce unencouragingly. "Describe how it's achieved."

Katniss can't relax. Haymitch helps her.

I've made a lot of promises in my life. Even kept a few of them, though I don't make a habit of it. What's the harm in telling someone what they want to hear?

Mikey meets Pete and Alicia, who are a couple. Cue awkward fumbling-toward-a-threesome shenanigans. Thanks to handsomespeck at LJ for the beta.

Kreizler conducts an inquiry.

Adventures in keeping power in a country that would rather you stepped down, or: Prunella still has a few tricks up her sleeve.

It's the heat that gets him, every time.

It's 2006, but just barely. Overall, 2005 was a relatively shit year, but this one is looking even worse. It's also looking like Dean's last.

Under pressure, Claire tells the truth. This is not among her best decisions.

Hayley and Uncle Pat catch up. Happy holidays.