Tierney Radek // [District Thirteen/CB]

When people eventually work out that I'm an astrophysicist, they always ask me about the stars. Some want their palms read, others want me to work out what constellations are circling high above the pit of Thirteen. But that's not really what I'm concerned about. We live in this incredibly complex universe, and we don't know how it started - or how it's going to end.

I think that's where my interest started. I was born in the great wilds beyond Panem and nearly starved as a child, before Thirteen took my parents in. I faced the end of my life so soon after I started it. A psychologist would tell you I have trauma and it manifests in very specific ways. But it's more than that. I am feeble flesh protecting one vital organ which could crack open the secrets of the universe.

I can't remember the last time I wore anything besides the standard issue uniform. The practical fabric covers most of my skin. I used to tie my hair back because I thought it would help me blend in, but people stared too much at my face. Now, I let it grow natural, and shower as little as I can.

A few years ago I moved into my own unit. It's better this way. My parents don't even bother with my birthday any more. I'm always working, looking for more work, drinking burnt coffee. I have colleagues rather than friends. I've never been on a date.

You've never noticed me, because I want it that way.