"Hey Ixi, do you want--" Alleb paused in the doorway to Iximaz's lair. It was utterly pitch-black, except for one square of light, which was partially obstructed by Iximaz's head. The only sound was the mouse and keyboard, and Iximaz muttering to herself.

"Uh, Ixi?" Alleb repeated, knocking on the doorpost. "Can I come in? I have some pizza rolls, if you want any..."

Ixi didn't look away from her screen, but mumbled, "Yeah, sure, sure...."

Stepping uncertainly about discarded Mountain Dew bottles and chip bags, Alleb made her way to her friend's computer desk. She held out the small plate of hot pizza rolls for a moment, but Iximaz made no move to take it, so she set it on the desk.

"Um, Ixi?" Alleb said. "When's the last time you were outside?"

"Outside?" Iximaz asked, cocking her head and sparing a quick glance at Alleb, her eyes still reflecting the graphics on her computer. "I haven't left this dungeon for--"

"No, I mean outside," Alleb interrupted, gesturing to the boarded up windows. "You know it's spring, right? Vitamin D is essential for your health."

Iximaz muttered something noncommittal, still staring at her monitor.

Alleb grunted. "You have to leave the house sometime, Ixi. It's not healthy to play that game so much."

"No," Iximaz whispered. Alleb felt a moment of relief, but then Iximaz ran an oddly tender hand down the side of her computer. "World of Warcraft is all I need." She continued to whisper to her computer; Alleb couldn't make out what she was saying. Eyes a little wide, she backed out of the room, closing the door behind her. The last thing she saw was Iximaz leaning towards the monitor.

"That kid needs some fresh air," she said, shaking her head and walking back to the kitchen. "Maybe I can buy some in a can..."