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.

Chapter Six

I was handed a bag by an Avox - looks like the rebels hadnt freed them either. I grimaced, opening it. However, inside was not the bomb that I had imagined. It was a new set of clothing. And they were decent. Jeans, boots, and a shirt. Nice clothing. I smiled. As soon as everyone had their new clothes on, we were let into the center. It was bigger than I had imagined. Capitol residents werent even allowed inside this area, for the dangerous weapons it contained. my grandfather hadnt even been in this room for more than ten minutes, to speak to the Gamemakers privatly once.

It was, though, just like the television programs made it out to be. There was the Archery station in the back corner - I noticed Fara went directly there. Snake, followed by Xander and Satose, went directly to the Hand-to-Hand combat area opposite of the Archery area. I noticed Water and Rhanona playing with the Camouflage station. Licorice soon joined them. Minke and Porter soon joined the gruff looking trainer at the weightlifting station. I was about to join Shia, Kaulke, and Plaite but I realized they were frequenting the Boxing area. I shuddered and turned away. I watched Satin and Slaier move to the side at the Spears station. I thought Princilla would join them, but she veered off to climb stuff. I approached Ana, who looked as lost as I was, when Walter brushed by and went to the spears section. Brenanna was right behind him. It left me, Ana, Herc, and the three other girls to fend for ourselves.

Herc gave me his disdainful look before dashing over to the Edible Plans while Clayre, Rose, and Eevaline - heads bowed - walked to the knots section. Ana and I turned to each other.

"Fires?"

"Fires," I agreed, and we both moved to the fires. We spent the remainder of the day playing with coal, sticks, matches, flints, and all the other fun stuff that goes with flames. When the day finished, we were all whisked away by our mentors and promply delivered back at our suites at the Tribute Tower.

The next day Ana and I were joined by Herc at the shealter station, but eventually he migrated towards the three girls and Ana and I moved to the knots. We spent the next day in the edible plants. That night, Gale and I got into another shouting match.

"I dont have to do ANYthing you tell me!!! I could spend my entire week learning to a tree! You have no say in anything!!"

"I have every say! I'm the one getting you sponsors and crap."

"Yeah, and I used to have a flying unicorn! You've done nothing this week but mack on women. I've seen you, I'm not blind! Attacking people who look like Katniss does no good. Forget her, cause she obviously does not want to see you, or else you would have gone to visit her JAIL cell!"

I honestly thought Gale would slap me, but he didnt and instead stalked away.

The fourth day was spent in the camouflage, climbing, and the edible plants again.

On the fifth and final day, I was content spending it tying knots or painting Ana's face, but she turned me towards the knives section. I put my hands up in a physical barrier. "No."

"Yes, Mickie, I know you wanna wait until they let us go or something, but what if someone like Snake or Fara attacks us?"

I was quiet.

"So...?"

Gale would be happy at least. The thought of him turned my attention back to the friends and family interviews done this week. What he said. My silence caused Ana to pull me over to the knives.

Of course, neither of us could lift the large, sword-like knives, but when they handed us daggers, it gave me a weird feeling of power. By the end of the day I could strike a bullseye. The trainer looked at me funny before telling me I had a gift. Ana, though could hardly get the knife to stick to something. I grimaced when she gave me a jealous glare.

At the end of the training sessions, Plutarch approached us all and told us we were preforming for the gamemakers, who would probably be drunk by the time I got there - like the ones last year, and the year before. I could usually sit in the back watching silently. So we all went in, but I was last. I wished my friends all good luck, and when it was my turn I entered slowly and just sat on the ground. My arms went up over my chest and I closed my eyes defiantly. It was fifteen or so minutes before they got fed up and let them open the doors for me to run out.

I would tell Gale about this.

As soon as the day was over and I was alone with Gale, I turned on him. "I know they film all the family and friends interviews during the week of training, what'd you say?"

"They found your old nurse, who adored you. They interviewed Marek, and even got a few words out of Zione of how perfect a sister you are. School teachers told of your intelligence. Johanna read your entire history."

"I know what my friends will say, what did you tell?"

"That you were stupid, but admirable."

That tickled me, and suddenly my fierceness softened and I looked up at him, "Really?"

He nodded. The elevator opened and we both went to dinner. After dinner we all sat in the living room, waiting to listen to the training scores.

Snake got a 10.

Water got a 2.

Ashton, a 4.

Brenanna, a 7.

Walter got a 9.

Rhanona got a 3.

Satose, a 6.

Licorice got a 6 also.

Xander got a 3.

Fara got an outstanding 11.

Plaite got a 9.

Rose, a 3.

Kaulke got an 8.

Clayre got a 4.

Herc got a disappointing 1 - even lower than the 12 year olds.

Princilla got a 5, which surprised me.

Porter got a 7.

Ana, too, got a 7.

Shia got an 11, to which i smiled at.

Satin, a 10.

Minke got an 8.

Eevaline got a 6.

Slaier - to his surprise, and disdain - only got an 8.

I was grinning when we came to me, for I thought for sure they'd give me a big fat zero, but instead my face popped up on the screen next to a big fat 12. I sat with my mouth open as Slaier yelled and then stormed into his room, Dovie chased after him.

"I dont get it," I wimpered. Gale sat there, looking uncomfortable. But slowly, he reached out and pat my back. "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," was his simple answer. He stood, leaving me to my own. I crawled into Zione's bed that night, cooing into his ear as he fell asleep.

The next morning Nicolli and Marek appeared to dressed me. Today I was in the Hunger Games.

Chapter Five

I snuck out. I went to the Elevator and just left. It was surprisingly easy. From the way they treated me before, as if I was an armed criminal, this was a complete 180. No guards, nothing. I could have left the building if it werent so cold, and if I knew someone was out there to find me. Instead I returned to the Elevator and rode up to Level 10. The door opened silently and I was able to slide all the way down the hall, and into the room marked with Shia's name. Then I climbed into the bed next to him and cried.

I dont cry easily. I only remember crying 4 times in my life. When my parents died. When I heard the Rebels had gotten to the Capitol. When my grandfather died. When I was alone in my room. Shia had been there to see me cry twice: with my parents and the Rebels.

We had been watching Hunger Games reruns in my room when I was told. I was only 12, and he 13, and we'd only really known each other from these TV sessions and around school. But after he comforted me that first time, we bonded. i knew he was there for me, and he knew he could trust me. So we bonded. That's why, when the Rebels got into the Capitol, instead of going to Ana with my fears, I went to him. And that's why I come to him now.

After bawling for a few minutes, he stirred next to me, rolling over so he was facing me. The boy startled for a moment before regaining his composure and pulling me into him.

Around 3 a.m I stopped the waterworks and Shia and I just laid there in silence. I gulped before putting my hand on his cheek. I could feel the warmth of his face, and then I leaned in. "Shia...I...Can we...?" I trailed off, unable to even ask for it.

I saw his smile in the darkness. But he gently moved my hand off my face and held it. "I love you. You know I do. But not like that, Mickie."

"But I just wanna... Please, Shia?"

He shook his head, moving so you were both sitting up against the headboard. I was soon placed between his legs, resting my head on his chest. It was soothing to hear and feel his heart beat. Shia rested his chin on the top of my head and sighed. "You want something meaningful, not something fake, Mickie. I know that. Doing it now would be wrong."


I nodded my agreement and sighed. With Shia rubbing my sides I was asleep within minutes.

We woke the next morning to blaring alarms. I glanced at the flashing clock to see it was 9 in the morning. Shia quickly threw me his robe and he pulled on a sweater and we both ran into the hall. When Fulvia - a Capitol traitor - saw me, she screamed, pointed, and then ran to get the other mentor. I glanced at Shia.

"Were they looking for me?" came my meak voice. Shia glanced first at Satin - who had no particular loyalty to any Capitolites - then at me.

"Mickie, why do you think you were always in the background of President Snow's announcements? He had you there to show he had humanity. You did all those interviews and whenever you went to help the refugees there were cameras. You're like Katniss."

I didnt get it. i was never the face of the Capitol's side of the war. i was just there for my grandpa. I shook my head. "No. I was there to support him."

He shook his head. "That's why they tried to get you out of the city. They need a face for people to go behind." He rubbed my cheek with his thumb. "You were the prettiest and most known face in the Capitol. That's why the Rebel's cant loose you." I frowned. That's why I was being guarded, because I was the face of the Capitol. I didnt even know I had anything to do with the war, other than caring for the refugees from further out in the Capitol. And my grandpa didnt even tell me he was using me. No one told me.

Suddenly, the idea of banging Shia disgusted me and I walked back to the elevator. However, when it opened, there stood about five guards, Gale, Plutarch, and President Paylor. Their battle gear - save for Plutarch, who just sighed in relief at finding me - was daunting while I was standing here in a meak little robe. Gale waved to the men behind him and they caught my arms. Then I started fighting back.

"You cant do this!" I shouted, as they pulled me in the elevator. Paylor just gave me a look before turning away. "I have rights dont I?!"

"You have about as many rights as the Capitol gave us," snapped Gale. I watched Shia as the doors slid shut, then turned back to my 'mentor'.

"We gave you savages as many rights we could give without loosing control," I hissed. I felt the guards, obviously from some District, tighten their hold on me, and then I glared. Gale was about to respond, but a glance from the new President shut him up. We made it up to level 12 without anyone saying anything. As soon as we made it to the top floor, there stood Dovie, Slaier, Nicolli, Marek - a man I used to have do my hair, Gale answered my request and had him come - and Slaier's prep team. Slaier just glared, probably angry the alarm woke him up.

Paylor and the guards just stayed in the elevator, but Gale shoved me into District 12's suite. The dark haired boy nodded to Plutarch before grabbing the back of my collar and practically dragging me into my room. He sat me on the bed, and was about to leave when I spoke up, "Hey!"

It wasnt a rude shout. In fact, I thought it was kind of wimpy. Gale paused, crossing his arms over his chest and then turning to me. "What?"

I stood up and debated crossing the room and standing near him. But I decided otherwise. "You know the interviews you did when Katniss was in the Games." His jaw clenched. I guess he didnt like the mentioning of his former best friend. His former major love interest. I figured I wouldnt press that any further and went on. "Who are they going to interview when they do my part?"

I had no one left. My best friends were entering the arena with me. My parents were dead. my grandfather killed. I only had Zione left, and he was too young to understand what's going on. Gale's eyes softened for a moment, but he shrugged. "They'll ask around, find some friends -"

"But I dont have any friends!" I blurted out, grimacing. "They're all in the games with me."

"Then they'll ask around about who your other friends are. Workers in the mansion. Nicolli and Marek. They may attempt to interview your brother," he paused. "They'll ask me."

I froze. If he gave an interview about me, I was surly not going to get ANY sponsors. I was dead meat. Suddenly, my fearful voice was gone and I was glaring at him. My transformation caused him to harden his eyes. "What'll you say about me?"

"Nothing expecially good, nothing expecially bad." He said in even words. I glared before telling him to leave. I was alone for a minute before Marek and Nicolli entered the room. I smiled lightly at them. Marek went right to work on my nails and Nicolli drapped some garment bags over the bed and neatly set a few pairs of shoes in the corner.

When I was polished and neat, I was being dressed. Marek had left the room to give me privacy and Nicolli and I were alone. I didnt speak and neither did she.

Soon I was in a stunning black ball gown, complete with pleats and bows. It was great. It only got better when she called Marek back in and he latched a pretty pearl necklace around my neck, and then gorgeous pearl drop earrings in. I was in awe of myself as I watched them in the mirror. Nicolli pulled out comfy looking flats and I slipped them on. I didnt mind flats, I actually adore heels. But whatever she wants, I'll do. There's no sense in making a stylist hate you. They dabbed makeup on, my dramatic eyes from yesterday. Lipstick, some blush. Not over the top or anything. When they stepped away, Marek smirked.

"You're a shoe-in to be the next Katniss. You're even prettier than she."

I grinned. "Gosh yes. And dont worry Marek, you're much prettier than Peeta too."

Nicolli bowed her head and moved to clean up, while Marek and I made fun of the Rebels. "I know, right!" Marek grinned, giving me his best Peeta look. "They're so fake, though."

"Yeah, I mean, sure they were in to die for outfits, but they've never been in ones like those. It's like shoving a mutt into a slinky red dress. It just doesnt fit."

"Trash."

"Scum."

"Dont deserve to be here."

"Oh, I cant top that, Marek!" I squealed. That's why I missed my hair dresser. He would always say whatever I wanted to hear. I was giggling with the man when there was a low grumble by the door. I turned me head, to find Gale, along with Dovie, glowering at us. Of course, we just insulted them. I merely smirked, while Marek - who is a people pleaser and hates people hating on him - wimped out and ducked his head. I didnt see as he shirked away and towards Nicolli. I just stared with blank eyes at the two District people standing in front of me.

I rose a delicate eyebrow. "Yea?"

Neither spoke, until Dovie shoved her elbow into Gale's side. The 19 year old grimaced before speaking, "Our party is leaving soon. Be out there in five minutes."

They were about to turn around when I smirked. "Or what? You'll leave without me?"

Dovie continued out - probably hating me. Gale just faced away. "We physically force you out."

"Whatever," I muttered, glaring at the back of his dark head. He slammed the door shut on the way out. When I walked off my platform to leave Marek frowned.

"Where are you going?"

I gave him a grin. "I dont want their hands on this fabulous dress, Marek! I'll cooperate, for now."

I saw Marek's face fall and then I sauntered to the elevator. My three other companions gave me glares, even Slaier - who looked even cuter than yesterday in his great suit - but I ignored them and we all continued down to the bottom floor.As soon as the doors cracked open an inch, I lifted up the front of my dress to jog over to Ana as she talked to Shia and Kaulke. I didnt see Plaite, but he must be here somewhere.

I hooked arms with Ana and we chatted for a few minutes before Snake and Water took their leave into the city. I watched Water with a sad face. Her cute button nose was red, even after they tried covering it with makeup. Her eyes were bloodshot. But she looked so adorable in her little gold princess dress. I could hardly give a flying monkey about Snake.

Ana, Kaulke, Shia, and I continued talking as others left. I noticed we were all in the same color as yesterday, and no one had fantastically stupid outfits - like District 7's tree costumes from the Quarter Quell last year. We were all in probably used clothing, the stylists had to make due with what could be found in closets around the Capitol. But we all looked stunning, I saw that right away.

Eventually, Kaulke left us, then Ana, and the boy and I were left all alone.

"i dont wanna talk about last night," I said slowly, when the awkward silence came over us. Shia bit his lip.

Then he left, and soon it was only Slaier and I, with out mentors having left long ago. I walked over and stared him up and down. "We have to be friends," I stated.

"I'm not listening to some Capitol doll."

I glared, stepping onto the chariot. "I like you. I actually think you're kind of gorgeous, but if you threaten me or my friends in that arena, this 'district' thing is out. I have deadly nails," I cat-scratched the air next to the boys head and grinned. He merely rose his brow. Maybe he will try to hurt me and Ana. Then maybe I will have to use my nails. I was contemplating this as our chariot was drawn out into the crowd.

And I must say, for barbarians, the district people were being surprisingly civil. No food throwing like I thought there would be. Instead it was cheering. Not for me, but for Slaier. I dont think I heard 'whoo Mickie Snow' even once. I didnt mind, I just stood there smiling and waving.

When we finally arrived back at the mansion, I was relieved. Ana was quick to pull me away from Slaier and into the auditorium, where it was packed to the rim with people wanting to personally witness the interviews. When all the tributes were sitting, two people strode out. I smiled when I saw the familiar Caesar Flickerman, but it disappeared as soon as Johanna Mason stepped out.

Their introduction from Plutarch stated that they were co-hosting.

I watched for a long time as Caesar - his skin a sickly blue, his hair grown out much too long, and wearing District 13 clothing - tried to bring out the good in people while Johanna focused on the bad.

Ana was reduced to tears after Johanna admitted that her uncle was killed. Caesar was cut off when he tried comforting the girl. I watched in horror as my fellow tributes were resolved to tears or yelling matches with this woman. I definatly did not like her anymore. My hatred, and fear, became too much when Slaier was escorted off the stage and they were trying to get me up. I stayed as still as possible, until Caesar, trying to be happy, started cheering me to come on stage. Soon everyone else, including the dreaded Johanna, started pitching in. Needless to say, i was soon sitting right across from the good-cop/bad-cop duo.

"So, Mickie, long time no see, huh?" Caesar started, smiling. I knew him from some parties. But our reunion was interrupted by Johanna leering at me.

"So, you're President Snow's granddaughter?" her question caused many to gasp, although I'm sure that most districts knew this already. I didnt waiver as I nodded. Caesar tried smiling at me.

"So how is your little brother? Zione?"

"Good. Being held captive ba-" I was cut off by Johanna.

"So why were you living with your grandfather instead of your parents?"

I knew my face showed slight sadness, but I quickly pulled it together. "They died in a train crash in District 2 a long time ago."


"We're so sorry, Mickie," Caesar expressed his empathy, but he already knew how my parents had died. Everyone in the Capitol knew. I just shrugged. It was quiet on the stage for a second or two before Caesar spoke up. "So what's your strategy for this memorable Hunger Games?"

I thought for a minute, watching the clock tick backstage. I only had five minutes out here, and still had two left. If I could just stall.

"Well?" Johanna demanded. My eyes turned to slits as I glared at the woman.

"I dont plan on fighting." Both the hosts were confused. "I plan on sticking it out with my friends until you people get bored and let us go."

Caesar was still stunned that I'd said that on television when Johanna sneered. "You know others dont share your ideas? I'm pretty sure Snake and Fara will be two of the front runners in this. Neither are afraid to get down and dirty."


"I'm sure you know a lot about that, Johanna," I retorted. "I could just be playing your cards. Acting weak while I'm not. That's totally me. A liar. A fake."

I stood, knowing that there was still almost a minute. Johanna hardly fazed at my words, and didnt move to block me as I exited the stage. Gale was right there, to yell at me. "Getting them agry wont help! That's how Katniss won her games. She showed she was nice and pretty and strong!"

"No!" I snapped. "She won it through pure chance. Had Peeta not been picked as the other tribute, she would not have had the publicity to win. She's a fake too!"

I left Gale in the dust and was at the Training Center doors within seconds.

Chapter Four

I heard someone grumble something behind me and turned quickly. There stood gale, glaring at me, then at my friends. My blush turned to anger, thinking he was about to turn me down. "Come on Snow," he rasped, still looking at Kaulke, who's grin faultered until Marshburn grabbed his tribute's arm and pulled him away. Shia leaned down next to me ear before I had to leave with Gale.

"I hope I kiss better than Kaulke," he purred. I gave him a grin before following after Gale. When we made it to the hovercraft, I was confused.

"Where are we going?" We were now in the air, flying away from the mansion.

"The tribute Tower," came his short reply. I frowned, glaring out the window until we arrived. and since we were District 12, we were probably going up to the top floor. I hated heights. Guess I'll stay away from the windows.

When the elevator dropped us off at the suite, Slaier was already there, lounging on a sofa. I retreated to the chair beside him. He didnt even look at me.

"Everdeen has been locked up. The games are being shown on the television. Claudius Templesmith is still alive. Most people who played any part in the old games are dead or being executed soon."

I gave him a look. I didnt want to know any of that. I just wanted to be in the company of someone other than Gale. I gave him a curt thanks before standing. Behind me there was a sqeak, "Mickie!"

I turned to find my brother, bundled in a comforter. My breathing stopped, and Slaier, appauled by my oncoming tears, left the room. I opened my arms to Zione and let him run to me.

"Zione, where'd you go? Why are you up so late?"

The boy, too tired to answer, fell asleep in my arms a few minutes later. I picked him up in my arms, craddling him, and turned. But suddenly I realized I had no idea where this kid was sleeping. I moved towards the door and Gale appeared, wearing pants but no shirt. I was too involved with my brother that I didnt blush, and looked solely at his face. He, though, seemed uncomfortable.

"Where is he sleeping?" I asked, taking a step towards the man. He took one step back.

Then he regained his composure and pointed at a room down the hall. I started walking off with Zione when Gale called after me. "Get ready, your ... friends will be up soon."

My face lit up, and I turned towards him, grinning. For a moment I forgot that he was the enemy and jogged over to him, leaned up on my tiptoes and gave him the costumary kiss on the nose. He just looked disgusted and I saw my mistake. My face hardened. "Dont worry. It wont happen again. I cant see you even trying to make me happy ever again."

With that i turned sharply, making sure my curled hair whipped the man on his chest. I put Zione to bed and when I had changed into pajamas - a cute little dress that Nicolli had set out for me - the elevator dinged and I had a gaggle of girls in the living room. Slaier came out of his bedroom to see what the noise was about and nearly passed out at the sight of eight girls in their pajamas. Satin, I watched, grinned when she saw the boy, and quickly excused herself to go to the bathroom. I grinned knowingly.

When we all got settled into the couches, we were giggling at something Ana said.

It had already been around midnight when the tribute party had been going on, so after an hour of gossip Eevaline and Rose retreated to the sleeping bags to fall asleep. That left us older girls, except Satin, who hadnt returned from the bathroom yet. Licorice was the first to ensue the adult rated chatter.

"Omg, i cant believe I'll never get to have my boobs done. I've been looking forward to that practically since I turned 18."

"Didnt they have enough silicon left?" Ana commented. I giggled, opening my mouth to talk.

"Not enough to make them as big as Licorice wanted," we all giggled again, and I rolled so my head was in Ana's lap. The blonde took the silence to start her own topic.

"Sooooo....Mickie.....what's with you and Kaulke. are you two gonna go all Katniss/Peeta on us?"

I blushed again, sitting up again and drawing my knees into my chest. Dovie and Gale were in their rooms, Zione was asleep, and Slaier and Satin were doing God knows what in his bedroom. I decided to bring that up instead. "What about Slaier and Satin? They'll be the ones going all lover on us in the arena!"

This was the first time Princilla spoke the entire time. "Actually, they're cousins. Mail Bronston is Satin's uncle."

I blushed and then cringed at what I thought they were doing in there. "Oh god! I feel like such a perv!"

The girl's burst into even louder laughter and only stopped when Dovie shouted swear words at us. We giggled more. Ana spoke again. "I can believe I'll never get married."

Morbid, but true. I lowered my head, thinking she was about to cry, but she wasnt. Brenanna spoke, "Yeah, but at least you've had sex, right? Nothing can trump sex. It's the dirtiest, funnest thing in a girl's lifetime."

I tried to keep my blush back. Licorice grinned, agreeing. "My first time was with Finnick Odair. Yeah, daddy probably paid for it, but it was totally worth it. He's, like, a god in bed. I though I would die from everything he did to me."

Okay, the blush grew. Brenanna was next. "Mine was with Plaite. When we were 14. Totally platonic. It was just to get it over with, you know?"

Princilla's bright red face made the attention turn to her, not me. And for a second I thought she'd be like me. Nope. "Mine was with a Seam boy, behind the Hob." I didnt know where those places were, but I realized she'd done it with a District boy and all of us laughed, joking with her. Licorice was quick to jump and ask what age. "It was only a few months ago. We'd just moved there."

I remembered hearing that 12 got a new Head Peacekeeper, straight from District 2. I cant imagine how hard it was for Princilla to move twice in a year. I was about to express my sympathies when Ana grinned at all of us. She had on her smug face. "Mine isnt nearly as yummy as Licorice's, but I totally romped with Fife," i remembered Fife from school. He was uber sexy and to die for. But he was three years older than us. I dont know what happened to him. "Yeah, and it was right on stage too. I asked Uncle Claudius to let us into the stage area and we did it right on the couches he interviews the Victors on."

All of us started to Joke on whether or not they recorded it, but Ana wouldnt tell. I frowned, she usually tells me everything. "When was this Ana?"

"Oh," she waved her hand. "When we were 15."

I pouted, "Thanks for telling me, your bestest friend in the whole wide world."

"Oh, Mickie! I forgot about you. What about you? Who's been banging your cute little body?" That brought everyone's attention from Ana to me. I felt my eyes widen and a blush cover my cheeks. I was about to formulate a lie when we all heard a cold chuckle. I whipped my head around to see Gale standing in the doorway. All of us jumped up when we saw him. I didnt know how long he'd been standing there. It was unnerving.

"You all are so shallow," he said, still standing in the same place in the doorframe. I glared. The other four werent talking. Then it was up to me.

"At least they've had intimate encounters. If it makes them feel good, then good for them. They're mature enough to handle it," I snapped, crossing my arms in front of my body.

"But I doubt none of you were in an intimate relationship. Exclusive. And one of you bought someone to have sex with. Obviously Capitolites have no moral values."

"I guess you would wait to be in a relationship before you ever did it?Right?"

"Of course. I'm not stupid."

"But you're a prude."

"Look at the pot calling the kettle black." Oh, he caught onto me. But behind me I doubt Ana and Licorice got what he meant. Brenanna had to whisper to the two girls what he was saying. Ana's loud 'oooh' made me turn red - half in embarresment, half in anger that Gale told my secret.

"At least I'm not waiting for the impossible."

"What the hell do you mean by that?"

"It's obvious that Katniss never wouldve gone for you. Peeta Mellark could steal any girl away from you. If it werent his insane good looks," whoops, that was a lie. Gale was way hotter than the blonde,"then his charm would turn any girl on. I'm surprised that fake baby story wasnt real. I mean, she's probably headed that direction many times."

That got him. He took a dangerous step towards me.

I didnt have anything against him personally. But he had nothing against me. It was our pride in our homes that made us as ferocious as we were. But I didnt care. I'll defend the Capitol until the day I die.

"Fuck you," he hissed.

"Well Skrew you!" came my retort.

That's when Ana so cleverly put in, "This is where she's supposed to jump him and he throws her against the wall in hot, passionate sex."

That only made me turn even redder. But everyone ignored Ana and her romantic drama books. "Get out. You had no right to invade our conversation."

"I'm your mentor. I had every right to chaperone an underage party."

"Actually, I'm totally 18, so if you wanna throw someone ag-..." Licorice trailed off, silenced by the hidious glares Gale and I were both giving her. This was our fight.

"This isnt a party, it's the last time we'll ever see each other in a friendly way. So get out. You hardly know us."

I shoved him. I took that leap from words to violence. And I pissed off my mentor - my life support while in the games. Gale stumbled slightly, but only rose a brow at my lack of strength. For a moment I thought he was about to strike back, but Dovie appeared behind him.

Her natural bleached blonde hair was pulled back into a tight knot at the back of ehr head, and she was sporting a robe. Her face held a horrible glare. "Get out. Wake up the two in the corner and leave. I'm sure if your mentors dont let you back in, the Elevator is probably very comfortable."


Behind me I heard my friends groan. Ana was the one who went to wake up Eevaline and Rose. I turned away from Gale and helped to get all their stuff.

When they were in the elevator - Slaier standing behind me complaining I ruined his cousin bonding session - Dovie growled at me and Gale.

"You two are idiots. Dumber than any person I've ever met. I know how you so loathe each other, but do it in private, not in a shouting match!" With that she turned and left. I stood there, not knowing what to do as Slaier jogged back to his room. Gale didnt even look at me before leaving. So I was left alone. And the only thing I can think to do when I'm alone is to cry.