Chapter Eleven

 
But being alone is somehow better than being dead.

Maybe that, or Fara finally pissed me off to much that I was fed up with her. She turned to me with ehr sardonic smile as I sat there, glaring.

"You're going straight to hell, Fara. Even if you win, they'll probably kill you anyways. You're way too much a threat."

"I'm not the threat here. You are. And just to please those damned rebels, I think i'll make a show of your death."

"Come on, Fara. We grew up together. We ate in the same cafeteria. You sat next to me every year for the official viewing of the games. I thought we were friends," there was my final plea, the plea that would hopefully set her free of her odd views on life. Maybe she would try and survive with me, not against. But the look on her hard, cold face made me frown. No way are we both getting out of this alive.

"Capitolites lost my affection when they gave up on my family." But she drew back her bow arm and shot.

There's something about death that everyone waits their entire life to experience: the flashbacks. People forget completely about the nosignificant moments in their lives, but when they know in their heart they're about to die, they see them. Every little detail, clearly in their mind.

But I didnt see them. I remembered them, pulling up that one time Ana and I accidentally wore the same dress to school. The day Shia and I spent a day together talking about the weather. When Fara and i had our first class together. When Water came up to me once and asked to borrow my hair color. Yeah, they were moments that were so small in the mix of things that they floated to the back of my mind. But now i was remembering them. Not in color, not in any sort of black and white. Plain old memories.

Out of nowhere a parachute fell. its timing was so incredibly perfect that it deflected the arrow and it went flying back towards Fara. But she ducked and glared as the parachute fell. I didnt even look in it.

I knew I was going to fight this out. So I brandished my knife. "Come on, stop being a wimp-ass. Come over here and fight me." And so Fara Riggsby charged. She toppled over me, pushing me onto my back.

But I won. The knife she hadnt seen me pull out: it was now shoved deep into her chest. Her fists, which she had been ready to use to beat me to death, they were limp at her side. Her hair, which had been cut short and choppy, covered my face. Her blood, it spilled onto me, spreading outwards.

Then I heard the cannon. But I didnt move. i didnt move until they brought out the hover craft. It landed with a thud and I heard them take away Water and Shia's bodies.

"It's one of them, maybe they're both dead?" I heard Enobaria's voice. It was Fara's mentor.

"If it isnt, then it's Mickie. I doubt Fara would've stayed like that," Gale. My mentor. He saved me. He sent that parachute.

Slowly, Fara's body was lifted off of me. I took one look at everyone, my eyes wide and scared, before slowly standing. I heard someone start to clap for me, but before they could get into a resounding applause, I pelted. No one made to go after me. After all, this is an arena, with an arena's forcefield around it. No way I was getting out. if anything, this would probably be my new home.

I had been running for a while when I collapsed in the middle of the woods. My tears flowed freely and I kneeled.

I was never into the whole 'God' thing. It had really gone out after the Capitol took over. They banned it in the Districts, but the capitol itself still had a single little church, on the outskirts of the city. It was one of the first buildings destroyed by the Rebels. However, people still knew about it all. Some people still prayed. So that's what I started doing.

Until someone grabbed my elbows and pulled me into a standing position. I looked up at Gale's face with my tear reddened eyes. Slowly, his thumb raised and he wipped away a trail of salty tears. My eyes widened more before he slowly moved his face lower.

"What was in the parachute?" I had to know. Probably another 'I told you so' thing. Gale stopped, closing his eyes.

"Nothing."

Then he kissed me. His lips tasted metalic, and mine were probably soaked in blood. But it was one of the gentlest kisses I've ever had. Much better than Kaulke.

Gale probably saved me. He sent that parachute for no reason at all, other than to deflect Fara's arrow. That's why - I tell myself - I let him push me up against a tree, his hands roaming down to my waist, mine still hanging limply at my side.

I like to tell myself that I gave myself to him because he saved me. Because he warned me of Kaulke's deciet, and tried comforting me after Ana's death. Because he, ultimently, saved me. But it would probably be lieing.

I needed something, and he needed something. And needs were met in the last half hour in the woods. But I still returned to the Hovercraft feeling empty inside.

Chapter Ten

 
The following day Xander died.

On the seventh: Porter.

On the eight day, the anthem turned on, and only Minke's face popped up into the sky. I completely forgot about him. All that was on my mind at the moment was Shia and Fara. And how there was only five left. And three of them were some of my closest friends.

I still hadnt asked Ana or Water what went on that day. In fact, I had been leaving to go collect berries and such. I had seen a few deer or whatever, but had been much to preoccupied to try and kill one, let alone have to bring it back to camp. We had food, and I frequently went back to our old camp to get water, so we were good. And I decided not to press the death of Water's best friend. It was Ana who decided to come to me. It was around eleven at night, and I was up keeping watch, when Ana sat down next to me.

"Plaite killed her. Not Shia." I didnt speak. "He and I were making the fire, and Plaite took the girls to get water. I heard her scream, but Rhanona wasnt hit until she was back at camp. Plaite shot her with his bow and arrow..." I didnt say anything. After a moments pause, she continued, "Shia seemed surprised. I dont think he was in on their plan. Plaite aimed at Water, and Shia jumped on him. He killed him. And then ran away...Then you came back all bloody..."

I heard her sobs before I saw them. I had pointedly been facing forward, unable to look at Ana and tell her that I actually killed Kaulke. But when she cried I turned to her. I pulled her into a tight hug, wrapping my arms around her and treating her like a baby. I closed my eyes.

We stayed like that for a few minutes. And when I opened my eyes I saw Fara, just standing there, a couple yards away, watching us. Our eyes locked, and as if in slow motion, she shot her bow - which had been at the ready.

I was prepared to die. I really was. Zione could be sent to distant relatives. He was young, probably would only vaguely remember me. My friends wouldnt care, because they'll all be dead. Gale would only be sad because he'd loose that presdigious title of 'The Last Mentor.' The Capitol Resistance would care for only a moment before trying to steal Zione to use as the new face. I was completely ready. I could care less if I was shot in the heart.

But then I remembered Ana sat between me and the oncoming arrow. I pulled away from my best friend in the whole wide world, and tried to move her. But it was to no avail. Within second, Fara's weapon was lodged in the middle of her chest. It missed her heart. It missed everything, and she was alive. In pain. My eyes welled with tears as I took off my jacket, wrapping it around the shaft of the arrow. I knew i shouldnt pull it out. It would only cause her to bleed out.

In my worry over Anastasi, Fara had marched over. She was standing above me when she finally spoke. "Dont worry, Snow. I'll come back for you later. Just thought it'd be fun to watch you cry on national television when I win."

I had half a mind to attack her, but I had to spend Ana's last moments with her, not the enemy. So I grabbed her hand.

"Ana. Please. Please dont die."

Gently, Ana took her hand from mine. I watched as an accusing look came across her face. "She was...Fara was there...you saw her...I was your shield..."

"What?! No, Ana. I was trying to get you out of the way! Please!"

"Liar. It was...your plan...your plan all-" she coughed up blood. I lurched at the sight of my beautiful friend dying, blood staining her pretty blonde hair. She had the blonde hair I always wanted. I always wanted to be her.

When i was little, my parents would travel. They would go everywhere. I always wanted to go with. But i wasnt allowed. So when I met Anastasia - who went with her parents everywhere they went (and they were both escorts, so they went everywhere) - I was delighted. I had someone my own age who could tell me stories of the fun family vacations. Of the people she met. The adventures. Slowly, it evolved into a great friendship. A friendship I think I might have died without. She was my confidant. I loved her like a twin.

And now she was accusing me of trying to off her. I cried more, collapsing next to her body. The blood oozing from her slowly spread towards me, but I couldnt move. I could only wallow in her words.

"all...all along. I hate ..." I was dreading it. "I hate...you...Mick...ie...Snow."

She told me she hated me with her dying breath. She was dead. The cannon sounded and I let out a ripping cry. I fell asleep that way and when I woke up Ana was gone and there was a parachute by my hand. I left it there for a while, knowing it was Gale saying 'I told you so' some how, and curled up next to where Ana's body had been.

I heard Water call for me a few minutes later and I stood, grabbing the parachute as I went. I tossed it to Water when I approached her.

"What's in it?" I questioned, grabbing a water bottle and washing off my hands. The little brunette hadnt seen them yet. She nodded, opened the can, and grumbled.

"Just a bunch of ... um ... things in plastic..." She trailed off. I turned towards her, blushing when I saw the stack of condoms in her hand. I dropped the water, snatching them from her. 12 of them.

"I dont get it... I did nothing! I literally sat there until they let me out. Gale, why'd they give me a 12?"

"To make others hate you,"

I glared at them before dropping them. "Pack up the stuff, Kay?" Water gave me a funny look before nodding and shoving everything into my backpack. I grabbed it from her, throwing it on my back. I roughly grabbed her hand and had to pull her from our camp.

"Where's Ana?" she whined, trying to stop me. My eyes watered again and I looked away. But somehow I couldnt tell her the truth; that Fara had been here. That that she-devil killed my best friend to spite me. Water could be next, and she'd freak.

"She ... Killed herself, Water. I tried to stop her, but she said it was probably for the best," I lied through my teeth. Water looked at me with her big eyes and believed me, nodding and jogging to catch up.

We'd been walking for two hours straight when I heard Shia's voice, shouting at me. Instinctivly I grabbed Water's hand tighter and pulled her forward. We darted around a tree just as Fara's arrow shot by. Up ahead I saw a large wall. The wall leading to the Capitol. I glanced to see Fara was still coming, and then I pulled Water forward. We made it to the maze of the alleys and had just hidden when we heard Fara's heels click on the paved roads.

After ten minutes, her footsteps had drifted off and we emerged, relieved. We both trooped into the Center, glanced for Fara, and when we didnt see her, we crossed to the safest place - the Cornucopia. It's walls gave protection against Fara's eyesight. And I bet there's a bunch of weapons still in there. Water ran ahead to try and find food while i walked slowly, trying to regain my breath.

We were unfortunate. Fara let out a murder cry, then ran forward - leaping nimbly over crates and boxes. I glanced at her, and pelted for Water. But the little girl had no protection, and my friendship with her is probably what killed her.

Water died. Instantly, I hope, because as soon as Fara's arrow wedge itself in Water's small chest, a cannon sounded. And i tripped over my own feet trying to reach her. But as soon as I was over her, I cried, letting out my own scream. It mingled with my tears and was muffled when I leaned over her body.

At least she didnt say words telling me she hated me. I hoped she loved me. But the suspicion on her face when I told her Ana was dead. I never thought one could change their minds as quickly, but Ana... Just the though of my former bff killed me inside and i hardly heard Farra approach, ready to strike me dead.

I heard a pounding of feet, and had just glanced over my shoulder to see Shia barrel into my enemy. He brandished a knife and had a fist fight with Fara. I was so shocked, my eyes wide and hurt, that I did nothing to help him. It felt like hours but was probably only seconds before Fara straddled him, aiming a knife at him. We locked eyes for a moment before she took the fatal blow.

And i sat there, rigid. I had nothing left. A few relatives here or there that I've never met. Zione. That was it. I will be alone.

Chapter Nine

"Mickie!" I heard a shout, and stumbled back into reality. My eyes opened and the world was a bit hazy. My name was combined with grumbling, and then silence. I glance up to see Herc, bent over, blood pooling out of him. I then noticed the arrow sticking out from his gut. He was still alive, I saw it in his eyes. And someone had tried killing him. I shoved my foot into Ana's side and she woke with a start - just as another arrow hit Herc in the neck. She let out a scream before standing.

"Ana, get the girls!" I said, grabbing the large carving knife that came with my pack. I stood up, weilding it, ready. I heard Clayre wake up, see Herc, then her shouts and her trampling feet as she ran away. I hoped we would soon find her. I glanced back to see that Ana was motioning for Water and Rhanona to follow the other girl. "Go with them. I'll be there in a minute."

Just as Ana disappeared behind the bushes, I followed them. I only got so far before Snake and Satose arrived on scene.

"It's only Herc," Satose said, somewhat dejectedly. Snake gave a dark chuckle.

"Who cares who it is. One less Capitolite to care about."

"Five down, 18 to -" I watched as a spear was shoved into the 12 year old's chest. His life was snuffed out and I saw Snake's eyes darken as he looked towards the persona responsible.

"What the hell?!"

"Dont like the fact you have one less minion, Snake?" Walter growled, forcefully pulling his weapon of choice from his victim's body. The young boy fell limply to the forest floor, only a yard from Herc - their spreading blood intermingling.

"Watch it, Eadenwell. I'm more than capable to -"

"To what?" Fara asked, leering, appearing at Snake's shoulder. "Xander ran away as soon as you went crazy, Snake. You were chasing after shadows. Looks like your sick role modle behavior doesnt really work out, does it?"

Snake reached for his knife, or something, but fara beat him to the punch. Her hand flashed and slit the young man's neck. I had to cover my mouth to keep the bile from coming up. Snake's cold, dead body fell ontop of Satose. I could hear the crunch of bones as Fara dug her foot into her old allies' back. Then I saw her sickening smile.

"Come on Walter."

Just as they disappeared back the way they came three cannons went off.

I returned to the curious faces of four girls. When they asked me what happened, I gave them a meak smile. "Hey, we're all gonna outlast this thing. You can see it on the television later this month."

They each gave me lousy smiles back before turning to do their own thing. I fell backwards onto the ground next to Ana. We watched as the three other girls started to make a fire. According to Clayre, that was the only thing that made the gamemakers give her a score over one. And really, she did know how to whip up a mean fire. The three had it going within minutes and were leaning into it for warmth. Eventually, the darkness caused the three to fall asleep - for the sun hadnt even risen yet!

Then Ana, eyes sleepy, turned her head towards me. "Do I want to know what happened back there?"

I moved against a tree so she could rest with her head in my lap. She eagerly layed back, eyes closing. She took my reluctance to answer as a sign to be quiet and then fell asleep a few minutes later.

Despite the lesson herc death should have taught us, I couldnt keep my eyes open. I know it would have been brighter for one of us to stay awake, but all this turmoil has caused drowsiness beyond repair. I woke with a start a few hours later.

Three shadows stood above Ana and I. In my tired state, I didnt think before drawing the knife. But as my eyes adjusted to the light I heard a light chuckle.

"Come on now, I thought Shia and i were the only ones digging same sex. I didnt think you and Ana rolled that way!" My eyes lit at the sight of Kaulke, Shia, and Plaite. My jaw dropped. I had completely forgotten about them. The passed three days it's just been me and this motly crew of mine. I jumped up, Ana's head falling from my lap and the blonde woke up. I threw myself into the three. Shia caught me and we were grinning madly as the other four woke up. Water and Rhanona rushed over to us, grinning - as if these three young men provided a small chance of survival for us.

Clayre, though, was slightly more apprehensive. She only approached after I motioned her over. Ana quickly gave me a look before grabbing Shia's hand and dragging him into the forest. i rolled my blue eyes. I never knew she had a thing for him, but hey! We do have a slim chance of surviving to tomorrow, why not jump at a chance to get something.

Plaite looked at me, and I said a curt hello before turning towards Kaulke. He still reminded me of Missikins. Out of the corner of my eye I saw Plaite go to the little girls.

"What have you three been up to?" Kaulke hooked our arms together and lead me to the forest.

"Well.... a whole lot, really. I mean, we took out Fara and her group. Managed to kill a giant boar. Even struck down a Rebel hovercraft."

We both went silent. "So you've been surviving?" I rephrased my question. Kaulke nodded and stopped.

"So... You guys? How've you been faring?" As an answer, my stomach grumbled, making Kaulke laugh and me blush scarlet. "Dont worry, we did manage to snag a deer. The meat is in Plaite's pack." I turned to leave, but he only pulled me back towards him, making me blush harder. "Just stay out here with me for a few more minutes, Mickie."

I nodded, bowing my head, and letting him pull me into a tight hug. a few more minutes, there was Rhanona's cry of, "Clayre's gone!"

I bit my lip before returning to the camp site. In a few seconds, Shia and Ana were there too, looking slightly disheveled. Ana gave me a wink before helping us search. During the hour long search, we foud nothing. But i noted that Kaulke and Plaite didnt seem very interested in finding a fellow tribute. Of course, they've never actually hung out with Clayre ... And neither have I. I only help because she seems close to Water and Rhanona, and Clayre had been in an unstable mental state after Eevaline and Rose's deaths. She could have easily gone to kill herself. But we hadnt heard the cannon yet.

we called off our search. Shia and Kaulke went hunting for a few hours while Ana, Plaite, the two girls, and I stayed back and tried to sort through the layout of the arena, and what the gamemakers had in mind.

So far, nothing extraordinary had happened. No clock thing, like last year. And no mutts, so far. Unless those pigs that hurt Eevaline and Rose had been mutts...but then there would have been more, and herc and clayre definatly wouldnt have had come out unscathed. There hadnt been any pods that blew up. I thought for sure that the rebels would add pods to their little Capitol Center scene, but none exploded that first day. And there had been no unsual happenings. We were confused. But we stopped talking around four, only to make a fire and to cook the remaining deer meat. Shia and Kaulke reappeared around then, with nothing to show for their hours worth of hunting.

We settled for the night when a cannon went off. I knew in my heart that it was Clayre. Ana consoled the two 12 year olds and I sat inbetween Kaulke and Shia.

Two hours later the rebel's anthem played, consisting of a few lines taken directly from Katniss singing to Rue. They had played it both nights before, but I hadnt really been listening. Plaite stoked the fire as Herc face appeared in the sky. Satose, and then Snake followed. Finally, Clayre, her sweet face, showed up in the sky. Water and Rhanona had to look away.

We slept that night away.

The next day was uneventful. And at night it appeared that Brenanna and Walter had died.

Right away, early in the morning, a loud cannon woke us up. We quickly established it wasnt one of us and went about our normal mourning. A few hours later, another cannon, and a few minutes after that, another. This was turning out to be a fantastic day.

Around one in the afternoon Kaulke dragged me away, smirking. I protested, fake calling for help. Shia only gave me a knowing look before starting a conversation with Water and Ana - Rhanona was still asleep.

As soon as we were far enough away from the others Kaulke pulled me down to the ground, so we were sitting against a large tree trunk. "Wanna pull a Peeta?"

"What?" I asked, laughing.

"Wanna make-out, say we love each other, and then piss off the Rebels?"

"Totally," I said, grinning. I completely forgot about the thousands of viewers watching us right now. Maybe there was a battle going on and that was more interesting.

Kaulke ran a hand through his messy black hair before giving me a huge grin. He pulled my head into his by the back of me neck and our lips touched. To me it felt as real as kissing an apple, but it was fun. Slowly, he moved me so I was laying under him, toying with his belt.

"You know, Shia told me about that night..." I could feel his smirk as i felt my face light up.

"So?" I snapped, suddenly totally not turned on.

Kaulke laughed, pulling me back into him. "I wouldnt have been such a gentleman. I know a gift from God when i see it."

I blushed again, his compliment bringing me back into his little web. But suddenly a parachute fell next to my head. Kaulke and I both looked at it.

"I think it might be a love letter from Marshburn," Kaulke whispered, suddenly pale - which was hard because he was, like, naturally tanned or something.

"Probably, Hawthorne would never get me anything," so i tossed the package to my friend and he turned away to open it. I heard his groan of dissatisfation and giggled as he tossed a flower on the ground before turning back to me. He leaned in towards me neck and started nibbling. "What was it?"

"Just a dumb rose or something," he muttered. I smiled, glancing over. I know roses, my grandfather had been a fan of them, so when i laid my eyes on a pink primrose I thought nothing of it. Until my last conversation with Gale popped into my head.

"I'd be careful who to trust out there, Snow."

"I've known most these kids my entire life, they wouldnt hurt me, or anyone."

"You've known them in some pampered little world of yours, not in survival situations. Be careful, and win. I want to go down in history as the last ever winning mentor."

"You'll already go down in history, as the rebel who killed all those Capitol children and medical teams. And Primrose Everdeen."

"Have fun, Mickie. I hear dying is great."

I scrambled out from under Kaulke and he gave me an angry look. I quickly picked up the rose, glancing to where the hovercar disappeared to. This had to be for me, as a reminder of out last conversation. He had sent it to me when the boys appeared.

I heard a scream, then a cannon.

I looked towards Kaulke, and he was white with fury. He reached into his back pocket and turned a dagger towards me. I looked at him accusingly.

"What's this?"

"He wasnt supposed to kill anyone until I laid you. God damit Plaite. Skrew me over, yeah, thanks," Kaulke stopped talking to himself and glared at me. I was now scared. Just moments ago I was ready for him to take my...

"Why?"

"They're not gonna let you or your friends survive, obviously. You're too much of a risk." I've been hearing that a lot lately, but I didnt want to stick around. So I sprinted off, hearing his knife thud into the tree behind me. I made it just in time to see Plaite fall to the ground, dead. There was a cannon boom. Shia ran off into the trees. I had seconds to pull out my own knife before Kaulke pounded into the clearing.

"I was really looking forward to that little romp back there, Mickie," Kaulke took aim at me, but then switched it towards Ana, who was hugging one of the girls, I couldnt tell who. Suddenly, animal instinct took over and I drew my arm back. I was quicker than him and the dagger struck him in the forhead.

I walked over to retreive my weapon, muttering, "Fuck you," in the process. Ana looked up when I walked back over, my shirt bloodied. That's when I noticed Rhanona, sweet little Rhanona lying on the ground, an arrow through her chest. I took over comforting Water and cooed her. We stayed like that the remainder of the night, only pausing to watch as the six faces of those who died. I noticed Princilla's face among Slaier, Satin, Plaite, Kaulke, and Rhamona's faces.

I liked Princilla. I was ready to ask her to join Ana and I after I saw Slaier and Satin hadnt included her in their group. I liked the brunette. She was quiet and thoughtful, just the great addition to Ana and I. But I was occupied with Snake, and when Ana and I were finally together, she was gone. I sighed.

"Sixteen down, seven to go," I mumbled, half to myself, half to Ana. She just gave me this terrified look, nodding.

"Only seven of us left..."

Chapter Eight

As soon as I could see, my eyes were wide. Before me, as the platform rose, was the Capitol's Center. But it was the glamorous spot it used to be, and right in the canter sat the Cornucopia. I glared at it, while trying to marvle at the awesome recreation. But then I noticed the space that should have been taken up by the mansion was filled by fake stores. That's when I remembered that this isnt home, it isnt safe. I am now in the Hunger Games. Above me, the voice of some new person - I can only imagin Ana crying at the memory of her uncle - telling us the games are about to start, then counting down. I remember every year having a big party with my friends at this time.

"FIVE!"

I took a deep breath, unmoving.

"FOUR!"

I glanced around at all the other cages, placed the same distance away from the Cornucopia.

"THREE!"

I noticed Ana, clutching at her token, which i think was a doll.

"TWO!"

I saw Water two cages away from me, crying.

"LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, LET THE 76TH HUNGER GAMES BEGIN!"

Then the cages burst open and we all stepped out, dazed. I vaguely remember Fara dashing away. Snake, though, barrled into my side as soon as he was out. He had only been ten yards away and it didnt take long to cover the distance for him. I let out a pitiful yelp before Slaier was on top of me too. I for sure thought I was a gonner, until Snake and Slaier rolled away and Ana was lifting me to my feet.

"Mickie, come on!" I glanced around. Gale was right. As soon as these kids were thrown into a life or death situation, they were vicious. Xander and Satose had been the first ones at the Cornucopia, then Fara, who had thrown a spear right at Licorice, killing the blonde girl instantly. Walter was soon at Fara's side, a snarl on his face. Water and Rhanona were nowhere to be found. Shia, Kaulke, and Plaite were running into an alley, backpacks in their hands. Ashton was slumped over next to his cage, an arrow in his neck. I dont know who killed him. Then I noticed Satin help Slaier before they both ran right passed me and Ana. Snake hardly gave us a glance before chasing after the two cousins. He shouted to Satose and xander and the two young boys pelted after him.

Me and Ana rushed forward to grab something, but were quickly set back when we noticed Fara trying to find someone to kill. So we retreated into a dark alley. Eventually, everyone else left the area, except Fara and Walter, who were soon joined by the other three 'Careers'. They werent leaving any time soon, and I wanted at least a random backpack, who knows what might be in it.

I pulled Ana behind a dumpster. "We have to get supplies."


"No. Too dangerous."

"There's a pack hardly fifteen yards away, come one, Ana, we need something!"

She shook her head again and started to pull me away, but I yanked my hand and dashed out of the hiding spot. Ana tried to go after me, but didnt make it past the opening to the street. As if in slow motion, I heard Fara scream my name, and then an arrow whooshed passed me somewhere. I made it the last few feet and ducked behind the large crate that had been hiding the pack from the 'Careers' view. I hooked it over my back, glanced at Ana - who was trying to indicate that they were now giving chase. I peaked, and yep, here comes Walter and Satose.

I braced myself before sprinting back to Ana. An arrow struck the pack just as I entered the alley. But the two boys were still chasing, so I grabbed the redhead's hand and yanked her. Luckily, the alley wasnt a dead end. But it wasnt like the real alleys in the Capitol, they were winding, and eventually I heard the boy's footsteps stop and me and Ana slowed.

We caught our breath before Ana spoke, "Where are we?"

"I donno..." I trailed off and brought Ana further down the paved alley. We passed through two more before we came to a wide opening in the wall, outside sat a forest.

"I think we should try those store fronts before we head into the forest," i nodded my agreement, but after trying three stores, we realized they were locked and the glass was break-proof. We resigned ourselves to the forest, and as soon as we entered, who do we find huddled against the stone walls in the leaves: Water and Rhanona. i noticed Rhanona was bleeding from a scrape on her knee. I ran to the two girls while Ana glanced both directions, seeing if anyone was coming. I heard two cannons in the distance - Licorice and Ashton. That means Snake hadnt killed Satin or Slaier. I almost sighed in relief before opening my sack.

I thought the Rebels would be cruel, and leave us Capitol children with hardly anything, but no, this was like a real game of the Hunger Games, not a rigged one. And inside my backpack were three roles of bandages, four bottles of water, several packets of food, some rope, and a beautiful knife. I bypassed everything, grabbing only a role of the white clothe, and a water bottle. I wet the clothe, adn then cleaned the blood off of Rhanona's wound, then quickly wrapped it.

I stood. "Where'd you two go when the bell rang?"

Water looked at Rhanona before answering, "Walter's token is a really heavy, metal ring. Rhanona went running for a bag, but the boy hit her, and then took it before running to the Cornucopia. Then he killed A-A-Ashton!" Then the water works. These two girls had been close to the little boy. I gently pat their headsand hugged them before telling them we have to keep moving. Eventually, the four of us were on our way, skirting along the back of the Capitol Center replica.

I didnt know what to do.

Normally, I'm level headed in dire situations. Like last year, when I was standing next to my tempermental grandfather as he tried fixing the Katniss/Peeta double suicide incident. I calmed him, and then helped him figure it out. When Govini Nolina went out of fashion, and his clothes were the only thing Ana would wear - I totally solved that problem. When I was seven and Shia and Kaulke played a prank on a teacher and were almost caught, I totally talked their way out of it. I'm always the looker-afterer. I watch out for people, and now I had three other girls - crying and weak - that I had to make sure didnt die on me. I think I would collapse if any one of them died on me.

But I didnt know how to take care of them, at all. I knew, when my grandfather got out of control, he only needed to be surrounded by his roses to calm down. I knew Govini Nolina practically stole all his designs from an up-and-comer and told Ana about them. I knew any teacher would believe that the President's granddaughter never lies. I know how to care for people in the Capitol. But this isnt the Capitol, and I had next to no power.

I didnt know how to get food. I didnt know how to treat Rhanona's wound if it got worse. I didnt know where we should sleep tonight - or if we'd get any sleep. I didnt know where those 'Careers' were. I didnt know where my former friends were. I didnt know anything. And I felt helpless.

I ran into Water and the stumbled forwards. "What is it?" I asked, leaning down to her height. She pointed through the woods to a deer that was grazing. I gave her a pitiful look.

She wanted me to kill it for us. She knew my faux score of 12 and assumed I was just plain awesome. I wasnt. But I also knew she couldnt get it - her score had been a measly 2. Rhanona had a 5. At least Ana had a 7, but I think she might have gotten it by bribing the Gamemakers. Because at the stations, she could only just hold her own.

Suddenly, I had a knife in my hand. Little Water Dellingshire was staring up at me with her large brown eyes, begging me for food. I cringed at the look in her face. I gave a reluctlant nod before taking a tentitive step forwards. I wasnt watching myself because I stepped on a pile of leaves. The deer looked up straight at me before turning tail. I threw my hand forward, letting go of the knife. It went at a dangerously fast speed, zinging right passed the poor deer and lodging itself into the tree. Water hung her head as she went to get it.

"I'm sorry," I said grimly, following the girl. Ana and Rhanona scampered behind me.

Water merely shrugged, retreived the knife and shoved it back into the backpack. I threw the thing over my back and we started walking again. After a few minutes Ana stopped us all. "What's our plan, guys?"

"Huh?" was our confused reply.

Ana bit her lip. "You know...What are we gonna do now?"

Rhanona looked at me. "I'm with Mickie... I dont wanna fight, or die. I wanna get outta here." Water nodded her reply and I looked at Ana.

"Then we gotta find some water or food, right? Remember the 74ths? How Katniss and everyone almost died from no water in the body syndrom?"

"Dehydration?" Water questioned, raising a brow at my clueless bestie's lack of knowledge. Yeah, she totally bribed those Rebels.

"Yeah..." she trailed off and I sighed, nodding my agreement. That's another thing. I had no clue where we were. "So, which way?"

"Not back into the city area," Rhanona said. "You cant get into the stores at all, and there's no fountains." Oh, that was something I didnt notice. There had been a large water fountain in the middle of the Capitol Center, but it had must have been taken up by the Cornucopia.

"That's smart, Rhanona," I smiled at her and she blushed.

"Then where's some water?" Ana demanded

I was inclined to make a cute remark about Water, but decided jokes are not good at that exact moment and shrugged. We four stood there for a few minutes before Ana started leading us further into the woods. After walking for half hour or so, we heard the steady stream of water, but also some rapid splashing. "stop," I said, pulling Ana back behind some trees. She glanced at me, then the two 12 year olds.

"Stay here, you two," she said maternally, before grabbing my hand and pulling me forward. What we saw terrified us.

Blood poured into the small stream from the bodies of Rose and Eevaline. Clayre was hunched over them, trying to quell the bleeding. Herc came from a bush, carrying wads of leaves. When he saw us, his expression changed to releif - as if two city girls could possible help these dying children. He dropped the leaves next to Clayre and motioned us over. Ana and I both knew it was best not to call over the little girls, for they would only break down or something. So me and my best friend staggered forward.

That's when I noticed the two girls were still awake. They knew what was happening, and they were in pain. Silent tears dripped, but they werent crying out. That only made me want to help them more. So I pulled out the bandages in my bag, gave a roll to Ana, and then went to work on little Eevaline. You could see her arm bone, where she must have broken it and then it popped through skin. I only wrapped it so the bleeding was lessened. Then I wrapped her head, which had been cut. Her shoulder had a would where it looked like she had been slashed by something. I left her littler cuts and bruises unattended - we may need the bandages for something else later on.

I glanced at Ana and Rose to see that the 13 year old was propped against a rock and Ana was dabbing blood off of Clayre. I slowly moved Eevaline to sit next to her friend before looking at Herc. He Clayre was in shock or something, rocking back and forth on her heels as Ana tried consoling her. The singer boy seemed the only one able to speak.

"They were attacked. A hog or something just burst out of the bushes," I felt some kind of relief flow through me that these two werent hurt by another tribute. "I was up in a tree when it happened. The pigs ran away."

I nodded, "Can you go get Water and Rhanona, they're in the bushes or something."

He nodded, and ten minutes later the three were back. But the little girls were brave. They just stared at their three new companions with this kind of pity before sitting down next to the water. So we stayed like that the rest of the night. I opened the food in my pack and gave some to everyone.

As the sun fell that first night, we all looked towards the sky, awaiting the faces of our friends. Water and Rhanona were clinging to each other as Ashton's face showed up in the sky. As Licorice's face boomed into the sky, we all turned away to silently mourn them - but Herc collapsed after a third face popped up in the dark clouds. He rushed over to Rose and I followed his eyes to the sky. She was dead. Clayre let out a yell, lurching over to Eevaline. But that's when the other girl's face showed up in the sky. I heard Clayre's wails of pain and suffering.

Water and Rhanona retreated to the little creek again, arms linked as they talked in whispered voices. Ana went straight to Clayre, holding the young girl and rocking her until her crying stopped and she fell asleep.

Herc and I took the bodies away from our small clearing, dragging them a dozen yards away. We each gave both of them the customary double kiss on the cheek before leaving.

I told herc to go back to the others, and I bit my lips before returning to the two girls. They were dead, and I had known them. Simply throwing them out into the woods was no option. Instead I sat vigil, falling asleep leaning against a tree.

I woke up to find the bodies gone, and Ana poking my shoulder. "Mick, come on. Your back must ache or something. Have something to drink."

I nodded, grabbing her hand and she helped me to stand up. We both just stared at each other for a moment before she led me back to the makeshift 'camp.' Herc had a fire going, heating some water in our metal water bottles. It was safer that way - or so the trainers said. Water has bacteria in it or something. Clayre was sitting by herself against some rocks while Water and Rhanona were still sleeping.

The second day went by uneventfully. We ate the remaining packets of food, and started to munch on some berries Ana found a few yards away. But it was uneventful.

Until early the next morning.

Chapter Seven

I was stunned speechless. Marek had drawn me a bath and when I finished hadnt let me leave the bathroom. He spent extra long on my nails, making sure they were the regulation length (the Games didnt want anybody having weapongs right away, nails are sharp.) They were polished. Toe nails too. He handed me a sports bra and a pair of boyshorts. When I opened the door, he quickly pulled me back in, combing out my long hair so that it was straight before pulling it back into a tight braid.

About an hour after they started, I finally came out of the bathroom.

And I was amazed.

On my bed lay my arena clothes. I had watched every single reruns of the Games. Never once was an outfit copied even a little. And I knew Nicolli hadnt run out of ideas. She wanted revenge. And she was using me to take it out on.

I was quiet as she pulled the long-sleeved light green shirt on over my head. I slipped the tawny colored skinny jeans on over my legs, and Marek quickly looped a brown belt around my waist, securing the pants. Nicolli pulled warm woolen socks over my feet and was quick to put on the boots which was comfortable. When i stood, she handed me a thin black jacket. I quickly threw it on. And there we stood, Nicolle, Marek, and I.

"I thought you hated me. Why are you helping me?"

"I never hated you," Nicolli maternally rubbed my cheek before turning away. "The Rebels took away my home. they took away my friends, so lets show them, okay?"

I nodded and turned to Marek, who merely grinned. If they turned to question these too, Marek will give Nicolli away, I know. But he knew what I meant to other Capitolites, he wouldnt do anything to harm me.

"I dont have a token... And I'm not wearing a mockingjay..." I turned to find something when the door opened. The stong scent of rose entered the room and I turned to find an Avox holding a small, white rose. I looked up at the sad woman before Nicolli grabbed it and pinned it too my chest.

"Is this from his garden?"

Nicolli nodded, and I was suddenly overwhelmed. I thought they destroyed the flowers. Apparently not. I wanted to ask where it was from in the nursery - for my grandfather was growing many different types. there were his perfumed ones, ones that lived for years even after being cut, some that grew in water. He was a real rose afisionado. But I didnt want to know if this rose would die on me. I wanted to be surprised.

I took a deep breath before walking to the door. My prep team was behind me as we took our final steps out of this tower.

When Gale saw me, his face turned red and his fists clenched. I'm not sure if it was because I resembled his lost love, or because I was for sure going against the Rebels. But he ripped the rose from my shirt and threw it to the ground. "Stop it!" He was about to stomp on it when I barrled into his side. He went to the ground, wrestling my for a second before overpowering me.

"You're NOT wearing that into the arena. It's suicide."

"Anything I can do to piss you people off, the better," I hissed. Marek quickly came to my rescue, pulling Gale off of me. Nicolli returned my rose, pinning it back in it's place. My prep team formed a physical barrier between me and my mentor as we went down the elevator. And then even as we rode to the arena in a blackedout car. We arrived, and all crowded into my send-off room. Behind me was the platform that would raise me into the arena, but I stayed faced away as Nicolli and Marek fixed my hair, and then my token. I gave them both giant hugs before they left me and Gale.

"I'd be careful who to trust out there, Snow," he said stoicly.

"I've known most these kids my entire life, they wouldnt hurt me, or anyone."

"You've known them in some pampered little world of yours, not in survival situations. Be careful, and win. I want to go down in history as the last ever winning mentor."

I sneered. I had one last piece of information on the boy that I had never used. My grandfather told me on our last day together. Word came from District 13 itself. "You'll already go down in history, as the rebel who killed all those Capitol children and medical teams. And Primrose Everdeen."

I stepped onto the platform. Gale's jaw was clenched, "Have fun, Mickie. I hear dying is great."

I glared at him as the thing rose. I had half a mind to flick him off, but I turned to face the oncoming arena.