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Tom is in the empty office space at the end of the hall of offices. As you enter, he is sweeping a thick carpet of dust from a corner. He glances in your direction but keeps working to clear the debris from the floor. He has already made great progress with setting up a new office and has moved over a number of boxes, a new wall map, and containers with paperwork. The room is well lit with rows of candles along one wall and an oil lantern hanging near the door, which cuts away the shadows. The area is cold and damp, but Tom is wearing a thick, brown sweater, and with his dark beard and hair combed to the side, he appears as a college professor.

"Hey, Tom. I came to talk. Do you have a minute?"

With a nod, he says, "yes, we should talk."

He sits on the old couch and crosses an ankle over his knee, arms stretched across the back.

"I'm glad we have this chance to talk privately. I never had the opportunity to address what happened between us the night Carl and Jason fought, when I…. well you know."

Tom shuffles and coughs into his fist. He clearly looks uncomfortable. "I was in a bad place. Carl had just betrayed me, and my drinking was out of control. My judgment was poor, and I said things to you that I regret. I did feel a connection with you, but I'm glad you were strong enough for the both of us to reject me. I don't want there to be any awkwardness between us, especially since you are now leader. I will work hard to support you in your role."

"Thanks, Tom."

"Sure, you're welcome. Now, what's on your mind?"