Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Today's the day.

The Reaping. Harvest Festival. Or whatever the hell the Capitol calls it.

District tributes—what the Capitol calls us—12 to 18-year-old children drawn by name from a cold glass bowl. Victims or "pigs" waiting to be slaughtered fit more than tributes.

Living in the 'poorer districts' often meant skipping meals or not even eating at all.

How cunning the Capitol can be. In "good grace", they offer tesserae. An extra portion of grains and oil until the next sign up. Enough to keep you alive, not enough to fulfill. Not to mention, tastes like barf. Disgusting. Their 'fair' trade? Your fucking life in the bowl.

I heard someone has a near total of 140 entries. What a reckless, desperate child.

...I'm that child.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

In my neighbourhood, I am known as the "Snake Seller". Name already suggests what I barter: snake-related goods. Meat, oil, leather scraps. Things the Capitol sees as "barbaric". The Peacekeepers here don't seem to care much about my operation; either they receive their tax in forms of my goods, or let the snakes overrun the agriculture. Without me, there'd be no crop left to harvest.

5 hours left before the actual Reaping. Just enough time for me to sell my goods. A small precaution, in case those 140 entries finally caught up to me in my final year.

I set up my stall inside The Barrel, customers immediately lined themselves up. Waiting patiently.

"Hello, Margie. What is it today?" I ask the child, no older than 8, with a soft smile.

Margie, dressed in tattered clothes, tiptoed to place her trade on my table. Her eyes darting between myself and the oil, pushing her offering forward.

"One snake oil, please! And my trade is...cardinal flower!" She beamed with that innocent smile.

"Oh? Didn't you offer this last time?" I teased, handing her the small jar of oil, placing the flower on my right side of the table.

"Maybeeee...you just seem to like them!" Margie countered playfully, putting the goods in her small satchel.

"Observant. I do like them! But remember, be careful when handling flowers. Understood?" I gently reprimanded.

"Mhm! I'm clean this time!" She chirped, showing me her small itch-free hands. She made sure I checked her hands and I did.

"Well done, Margie! Proud of ya. Now, you best get going. Can't have your parents worrying." I gently waved her off with a smile.

She nods before happily skipping away. I noticed her hands holding the satchel steady, preventing the goods from moving constantly.

Costumer by costumer, my goods began to dwindle. First the oil. Then the meat. Finally the handcrafted leather. All gone within 3 hours.

Carrying the traded goods in my bag, I began my walk home. The soft breeze blowing my hair gently, cooling me down during sunny days. While enjoying the view, my ears picked up footsteps trying so hard not to be noticed. I stopped, bent down and pretended to tie my shoelaces. The person knew I was onto them, I think. I don't hear them walking any closer.

"Tch, better not be that damn Peacekeeper." I said internally while standing up.

I turned around to look. Lo and behold, Alex, stood right in front of me.

"AH! FUCK! STOP DOING THAT!" I screamed at the sudden jumpscare of closeness, almost recoiling back.

The masked man laughed. Sounding deep and almost husky. The fucking audacity.

A soft amused groan escapes my lips before kicking dirt at his direction, "You're an asshole, you know? Scaring me for what?"

"It's fun. Kills time." He answered bluntly, still amused at my...reaction.

"Tch, and you decided to pick me as your target?" I say annoyed after experiencing it a handful of times. I begin walking away, knowing he'll follow.

His steps ushered before slowing down once he's beside me, matching my pace. The walk is silent. Comfortable even.

"So," I broke the silence, "what exactly brings you this far out? Need more goods?"

"...No. Just...worried." He answered, his voice carrying actual worry. It scares me.

"About not getting any women?" I joked, testing if it's actual worry or not.

His feet planted down, making me stop to face him, tilting my head up to look at him.

"About you." He confessed. Even though the helmet is covering his face, I know enough that he's telling the truth.

"Why? What did my sibl-" I got cut off.

"Nothing, your siblings are behaving. Finally. No extra ballots for you." He interjects, making me sigh of relief from the good news.

"Then what? Afraid I'm getting picked this time?" I raised a brow, looking at him, testing the waters.

"One hundred forty-five entries, that's how much you have." He said, voice flat.

"Pshh, so? I haven't been called for the past 6 years." I shrugged, "Even if I was picked, it was just a matter of time."

His body language is stiff, almost as if anticipating my response. His hand grabbed my wrist, letting him drag me somewhere. And I let him.

We stop at a secluded area, away from any prying eyes and ears. I waited for an explanation on why he dragged me here. He sets his weapon down, taking his helmet off, holding it by his hips.

"Fuck! Forgot he's hot." I gushed internally, gawking at his young, annoyingly perfect face.

"Your face never ceases to amaze me." I grinned before furrowing my brows, "Why are we here? Why the helmet off?"

"I....uh...wanted to take a good look at you. Just in case you get picked." He said, his ear turning slight pink, eyes barely looking at mine.

My eyes did a slow-frog blink, my brain too smart but also too dumb to process. It was quiet for a few good seconds. Until....my mouth opened.

"Sculpt me like your Capitol girls then." I blurted out, no clue what I just said.

He stares at me.

I stare back.

....

.......

"You say the most random shit." He sighs softly.

"...Sooooo..." I start, swaying back and forth slightly, "other than your face, anything you wanna give me before I go and get ready?"

Alex chuckled softly, raking his finger over his hair, disheveling his perfectly messy hair.

"You never cease to amaze me." His face plastered an adorable smile I didn't know a Peacekeeper could make. "But here, from me." He reaches to his pockets, taking out a silver steel ring.

"You proposing, baby?" I teased, loving how easily flustered he is despite being trained to be ruthless and unemotional.

"S-shut up." He grumbled softly, hastily placing the ring on my palm. "I just want you to have it." He closed my palm for me, ensuring I didn't chuck it away or drop the ring.

I gave an endearing smile, my cheeks up, corners of my eyes crinkling. "I'll be sure to treasure it." I said, clasping the ring. Maybe tossing it in the air, watching his eyes fill with worry if I'll drop it or not.

"I..have nothing to give back..." I trailed off, catching the ring and worrying about how to repay him.

To him, this is one of those rare moments of me being actually worried. And I'm worried about reciprocating gifts instead of worrying about my damn life on the line.

"Worry about it after the announcements, yeah?" His hand brushed my hair back behind my ear before putting his helmet back on, grabbing his weapon.

"U-uh, yes yes. Definitely." I stammered in....I don't even know, "I....m gonna go get ready then."

I quickly left the area, pocketing the ring while making my way home. I can feel him smirking from the back of my head. Typical.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

"I'm back!" I announced, closing the door behind me by kicking it with my dust free boots. I went to my still healthy grandparents', taking their hands in mine as I press them against my forehead.

I then began arranging the traded goods in the pantry. As I do, footsteps came down. Multiple footsteps. Tiny ones. With their initial giggles, crying and complaining.

"So, what did you get today?" Mother asked while trying to do little Blossom's hair who's clearly trying to evade the brush.

"Some flour, oil, spices, rice, cured meat, and.....trinkets!" I say, standing up and turning around, waving the small wooden toy in front of Blossom, making her sit still before handing it over.

"That's good." Mother smiles, finishing the little one's hair in a cute pigtail bun before taking off to play with the others.

"Where's Rue? Did she finish-?" I didn't even get to finish my sentence before she bursts open the front door, Thresh behind her.

"My god, this tiny girl runs fast." Thresh said between short breaths, making Rue flip her hair playfully.

"My bestie finally wants to see me." I scoffed jokingly, handing him a glass of water, which he took in big gulps.

"So, what did Rue make you do now?" I ask, leaning on the doorframe with my arms crossed.

Thresh wiped his lips first, placing the glass in the sink before complaining, "That little meanie, asked me to get a 'special' flower in the South Orchards. Followed to check, only to get bird poop on me. And there wasn't any blooming flowers!"

My eyes drifted to Rue who tried to hold her laughter in but failed. She explodes into laughter, clutching her stomach and the chair for support. Some of small children joined Rue's laughing frenzy while some of us just smiled at the scene.

"Ha. Ha. Funny." Thresh tried to act serious but he's already cracking a smile.

"Aweee, poor Bird Boy." I teased as I hand him a small vial of perfume, "Just in case bathing doesn't remove the smell." Which he gratefully accepts before bidding farewell to get ready for the Reaping as well.

I turn to Rue, "You, little Flower, are a troublemaker. Get ready or I'm not making your perfume anymore." scolding her gently.

She groaned softly, "Yes, 'motherrr'."

"Good. Now, go on, young lady." I waved my hand, mocking a snobby Capitol.

Mother playfully swats Rue's back as she made her way towards the bathroom, making her giggle and run.

"So glad I'm not getting kids." I laughed with mother, helping her with her hair as we talked.

"Maybe. You know what it brings: loud, chaos, joy, makes you wanna rip your hair off. Lots of mixed emotions. Depends if you want any, really. All up to you, my dear." She said, patting my hand back.

My arms wrapped around her shoulder, despite working in the fields, it stayed soft. I placed a peck on her temple, "Thank you for taking me in. I know I say it often but I still mean every single one."

"You're a blessing for us. We should be thanking you." She turns around, hugging me back as she whispers tenderly, "I love you like my own child."

"..." I didn't say anything, nothing is needed to be said. I just returned her embrace.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Standing with the other 18 year olds at the back in the girl's section, we all felt the sun's deadly warmth. All dressed in our 'best' attires. My eyes darted between my companions, Rue and Thresh, giving them a slight smile.

A man with slick black hair in flamboyant, frilly clothing came forward to the mic. His smile wide enough to be used as a boomerang.

"Welcome! Welcome, welcome!" He spoke, loud and too cheery for our impending doom.

"Before we start, I would like everyone to watch the screen above me. A special program from our President Snow!" He continued before looking up at the screen, clasping his hands as if praying to him.

With the amount of times I've heard the same reused shitty "special program", I naturally zoned it out. My gaze staring at the screen but eyes and ears aren't picking up signals. Just an empty, static head while fidgeting with the ring inside my pockets while sweat trickled down my temples. I sweat easily.

"....May the odds be ever in your favour." The man followed, almost...orgasming from that line, I suppose. "I just love that bit!"

"Ahem! Now, we shall begin the Reaping. As usual, ladies first." He said before dipping his hand in the bowl, taking the tape off to read the name, "Rue Barnette."

Chapter Text

Her name snaps me out. What the fuck did I just hear?

My brain short circuits before immediately calculating which path is 'best'.

"I can take her pla-. No. Volunteering now means she has a chance to get picked for the next 5 years, but if I don't, she dies... Fuck! Why didn't you just pick my name, you cock-sucking Capitol lap-dog!" I ranted internally, my fist clutching the ring in my pocket, my breathing slightly uneven.

"I'm...so sorry little Flower... I'll keep providing for our family." I thought, angry at myself for choosing this path. Angry at the man for picking her. Angry at the Capitol.

My eyes watch her get surrounded by 4 Peacekeepers, herding her to the stage, helpless to do anything. She's wearing my old stitched-clothes made into a dress, a small protection that I can't fully give. Her cute face tried to look unfazed, using what I taught her when working at the snake-infested orchards or when Peacekeepers got too close, but I know my little sister. She's terrified. Who wouldn't be?

"Hello, dear." The man by the mic said, smiling. "And now, for the boys."

"I hope it's Thresh or someone good at surviving. Though, I'd rather not want my best friend joining. This is so difficult!" I whined internally, watching the man pick up the name from the boy's bowl.

"Oh my. What an...interesting name." The man said looking perplexed at the name on the paper, "Kittredge Calamondin Raven de Luta Apple Naos Ember Solaris Lunario the Seventh. Phew!"

....Are you dead serious?

I hear the boys sigh of relief, others looking around. Even the mic man was looking at the boys, scouting to see where 'he' might be.

"Kittredge, my dear, where are you?" The man asks, scouting the boys section again.

...

My hand slowly raises up from the girls' section, "Here." I began walking towards the path, others were confused, bewildered or just happy it wasn't them. The Peacekeepers didn't try to escort me to the stage, probably also stunned at the revelation. I stood on the man's right side, facing the boys section in my black slacks and white button down shirt.

"Uhm...uh," The man stammered, unsure what to do. "...I suppose this is allowe-"

"Rigged!" One shouted, soon others followed.

"Scam!"

"This is a sham!"

Oh no, the crowd is getting rowdy. Hurling insults at the man who probably had no fault in the bowls. Probably. The more Peacekeepers began to swarm in, just in case. Not wanting my District to get more punishments, I grabbed the mic.

"Hello, everyone." My voice loud through the speakers, silencing them, "This is a surprise, yes. But I am "honoured" to be a tribute. I'll try to make you proud."

I hand back the mic to the man who looked between disgust for taking over his 'spotlight' and an almost grateful nod. Almost. Did I care? No. I went back to my side of the stage.

"Well that was interesting!" The man goes back to being loud and cheery, "District 11's Rue Barnette and Kittredge Cal-"

"Kittredge Solaris is fine." I interrupted.

"And Kittredge Solaris! Round of applause, everyone!" The man said, clapping his hands.

The crowd was silent like usual. But this time, it was a heavy silence. They see Rue and I, sisters not by blood but by bond, standing on the stage.

One by one, the crowd placed their right palm on their heart, bowing. A sign reserved for funerals and goodbyes. In return, Rue and I bowed back, our left palms on our right chest. Thanking them for everything.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Rue and I were separated inside the "Justice" Building. Probably don't want us strategizing before the games.

The door opens, Thresh came in with a Peacekeeper, telling me I have an hour to chat with friends and relatives. How...'nice' of them.

"Hey, Bird Boy." I teased slightly, not on my usual snarky comments.

Thresh didn't say anything, just hugged me, which I didn't push him away for once. I need this. He needs this too. Our embrace like iron bars but warm...?

"Why do you keep sacrificing yourself, Dags?" Thresh asks softly against my head, holding me close.

"Really? Still calling me Dags?" I poke his sides playfully, trying to lighten the mood.

"But seriously though, it was just a matter of time. One-hundred-forty-five copies of my long ass name in that bowl. Just didn't know I'm a boy, apparently." I chuckled softly.

Bird Boy sighs, annoyed at my lack of fear. Except I am, for Rue.

"Anywhoooo, I want you to have something." I grinned, watching his face try to figure it out. "My business!"

His expression was a fine line of horror and shock. Horror that he'd be the one keeping it up. Shock that I was training him to take over since then.

"You little-!" He started, not angry or mad, just mixed emotions.

"Hush, hush, little birdie." I silenced him, "With me gone, our people will severely starve. I know you don't want that as I. You're the only one who I actually trust to keep it running. So please." My hand squeezing his shoulders gently.

"I hate how you act all wise and mature when I'm older." He squints his eyes slightly.

"Only by a few days, dumbass." I say, patting his head despite having to tiptoe.

"But seriously, you're actually 'ok' with this?" He asks a stupid question, clearly not sure if I was sarcastic or not.

"I wouldn't be hugging you if I wasn't." I said, a matter of fact.

He nods slightly, slowly accepting his new role.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

My parents' immediately started insulting on how stupid I was for taking on tessera after tessera. I didn't mind, it's just the fear they might lose both eldest daughters.

"You both know it's fallen in deaf ears." I joked, only to get a firm pinch on my elbow by mother.

"Owwww, you're hurting me before I even stepped into the train." I sigh dramatically, "Dad, mom's meannn..."

"We should've stopped you when you were just 12. That wasn't and shouldn't have been your responsibility." Dad spoke, regret in his voice as mom agreed with a nod.

"It's not. But I did it anyway. You took me in. It shouldn't feel like a transaction, yes. But that's the only good thing a 12 year old can back then." I argued softly, "I'd do it all over if it meant feeding you and my siblings."

"I'm just...mad I couldn't save Rue's name. I'm sorry." My voice wavered, my eyes slightly watering before I steel them.

"You did everything you can and could, that's all that matters." Mom said softly, her tears slightly spilling as she caress my face.

I nod slightly despite knowing I could've taken more of Rue's 'punishments'.

I turn to my small siblings giggling, fighting and just acting like kids by the window. Far enough to hear grown up talk. It makes me smile.

"Iris, Sage, Apple, Blossom, Fern." I call out to my siblings, "Give your sis a group hug!"

"Forget me." I thought, not liking it but it's better that way. Their tiny bodies run towards me, their squabbles replaced with giggles and chatter. I hug them all one last time. My parents refuse my hug, claiming to do so only if I come back with Rue. Alive.

Chapter Text

My hand holds Rue's, her grip never wanting to let go as we stood in front of the train doors. About to leave our home, the possibility of returning is low. Very low.

Thousands of eyes watch us behind the fence. And yet, his stood out. I feel the fear, worry, pride and something else burning at the back of my head. As if telling me he'll be watching me from the screen.

I didn't want to turn. I just couldn't.

Rue walked inside the train first before I followed. The doors hiss as it closes, cutting the familiar sounds of home, the pressure sealing us in until our destination.

Rue, the man and I sat on the plush leathery chair. All of us quiet. Unnerving even.

My eyes wandered around and thought, "Mahogany tables, silver kitchenware, fine china plates. Very expensive things that basically cost us an arm and leg. Literally."

"Gonna tell us your name or what?" I ask the man, not liking the eerie silence from someone who seems boisterous.

The man jumped, his silk ruffles fluttering like a startled bird. "Oh! How... forward! I am Lucius Fether, your escort! And really, Kittredge, we should be practicing our smiles, not our scowls!"

"You should be thanking me for not letting the mob get their hands on your 'perfect' self." I reminded how he looked mostly disgusted for taking the mic from him, my leg on top of the other. He looks stunned, opening and closing his mouth like a fish.

A woman and a man came in from other rooms, "Hello, dears! We're your mentors, Seeder and Chaff."

Chaff, the man, nods in acknowledgement. Seeder, the woman, smiling slightly at Rue and me.

"Rue, why don't you eat something, yeah? You could finally eat something better than snake meat." I urged with a smile. The one that says 'adult talk only'.

She looks at me, wide eyed, I never let her eat anything that I haven't already tasted myself, for survival purposes. So it was obviously a reason to be surprised.

I chuckle, "I saw Chaff take one of those small brown bowl thingies. He ate it, it's safe."

"Egg tarts." Chaff said, offering Rue some.

Rue smiles, taking them and eats by the table. A habit of hers is to eat on the table even if it's not heavy meals. But it does make a perfect excuse to leave her out of conversations like this.

Chaff leaned back on the sofa across from me after dusting the tart crumbs, his eyes moving from Rue at the table to the "boy" on the digital files. "So, Kittredge. Or whatever name you're using to confuse the system. Want to explain why I'm looking at a girl when the Capitol is expecting a 145-entry-ticket boy?"

I shrug, "Beats me. Thought the Capitol knew everything."

I stare at the three grown ups, Seeder, Chaff and Lucius.

"Any tips for the game?" I ask, already planning 'what ifs'.

"Eager. I love it!" Lucius chirps, clapping his hands.

"Sure. So, tips?" I repeat.

"Get sponsors, dear. Anything you get is vital. From tools to medicine. You won't have anything except one sentimental item once the 'game' begins." Seeder explains.

I like her now.

"And how do I get said sponsors?" I ask, my nail denting the armchair as I draw on the leather.

Seeder leans in, so does Chaff. "Capitol citizens aren't just looking for a winner; they're looking for a performance. Some want bloodthirsty brawlers, others want a tragic hero they can weep over while they eat their stomachs full."

"Theatrics? You got to be kidding." I sigh slightly.

Lucius speaks up, "They're not. We love drama~. Like a lot."

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

My hand gently strokes Rue's thick, dark, curly hair. Her head on my chest as we cuddle on the sofa. She hasn't really spoken much since the Reaping. It's worrisome.

"What's on your mind, Flower?" I ask softly, placing my hand on her head, keeping her close.

"I wanna go home...I don't like where we're going..." Her voice almost quiet, a contrast to her cheerful and loud one back home.

"I know, I know. I wanna go home too. But we can't." I sigh, another variable out of my control.

I got a small nod from her. She knows we're helpless to do anything about it.

Just then, I saw tall buildings. Not made from wood like most of our houses are. It's similar to the Justice Building structure.

"Rue? Remember about your dream of concrete tall buildings? I think you were right about that." I nudged her gently, pointing at the buildings that tower over us.

Rue immediately jumped up, rushing towards the window. I pick her up, letting her view it better.

I watch as her eyes awed at the flashy, tall buildings. It almost felt foreign to our more 'earthy' tones.

Soon enough, the train slowly comes to a stop. Unfamiliar people with more flashy clothing and makeup waved at her through the window. Rue could only wave back with a shy smile.

Chapter Text

Separated from Rue, again. Of course they like that, tearing families.

I saw other tributes being hauled into what I'd call "containment sections". As far as what I know, what they're doing to me at least, is to make us...'presentable'.

I'm laid on the metal table, naked. Everything out for these intrusive beings to see. Scars, birth mark, boobs, pussy. Everything. They hose me down with warm water, a contrast to the cold atmosphere. They lather me up with soap before roughly scrubbing the shit out of my skin. The weird sensation making my eye twitch. "Don't punch them. Don't. Punch. Them. Let them be and get it over with."

Their hands are at least gentle on my hair. They're not trying to scalp me, that's good. I could smell flowers from the shampoo, artificial but still nice. My scalp is probably shiny clean now.

They dried me squeaky clean before taking out weird thick honey like liquid. "Am I supposed to eat that?" They applied thin layers on my legs before placing some sort of paper looking sheets on top. They ripped and ripped. My skin now looking like some angry tomato. My hands grip the table's edges, holding on for whatever kind of torture this is.

Just when I thought that was over, they move on to my crotch. My fucking crotch. OH HELL NO!

"Is that necessary?!" I panic, leaning on my arms now.

These beings in white gear nod, no explanation. They remind me of black rat snakes—all show and no bite, not even a hiss. All that protective gear is a bluff. Like how some snakes mimic others to show that they are a "threat". Batesian mimicry.

I groan in annoyance and lay back down, letting them continue with their 'skinning', just hoping they're not waxing my head hair next.

My nails now look manicured and less calloused than before. Making it look like I haven't been working in the fields for my life. "Do people actually care about these here? Why am I asking? Of course they do. It's the rich people District." Scars on visible areas like my arms got masked, hiding away my "flaws".

After that violation, they gowned me up before wheeling me into a more private room. I sat up, privacy at last in this white-walled, bright-lighted room. I feel like a specimen. Or in an asylum. Not sure which is worse.

"I hope Rue is okay. Hope she didn't go through what I have."

A few moments pass, I can still feel my skin burning from that scrubbing. There's no clock to tell how much time exactly passed. Just then, a figure comes in, closing the door behind him.

"Hello, Glitch~! I'm Saff, your stylist." He speaks softly, a contrast to Lucius, he gets close but not too close. "I am so sorry you had to experience that awful preparation."

I said nothing, just staring into his eyes. Almost as if finding his soul. His eyes constantly shift away from mine. The silence loud in this closed off room, just our breathing.

"O...kay. You're not chatty. I like that." Saff observes. "Anyway, I can get you and your sister into something that represents your District."

"Gonna make us look like trees? How original." I sarcastically remarked, remembering how my District was often represented as trees, crops or bread.

Saff grins, "Oh hell no. That is sooooo last harvest. I was thinking....something more District native stuff."

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Saff and Gold, Rue's stylist, guide us to our chariot as they explain the plan.

"Honestly, honey, just smile and wave. They'll love you and my creation." Saff smiles, fixing my dress one last time.

"If there is a next time, no long dresses. I can feel my legs touching each other. And the fabric is too smooth. Feels weird." I shiver, my legs feeling...smooth. It's uncanny.

Gold chuckles, "Told ya, Saff. She's like a man inside a woman's body."

"Rude." I side eye her as she helps Rue with her dress.

"So, smile and wave. That's all?" I confirm, earning a nod from both the stylists.

I stabilize Rue as she gets on the chariot first before stepping on it myself. I look around, assessing my environment. My eyes lock onto District 12. They tried to stare back but utterly failed, their eyes somewhere else now. "Interesting." I turn around, facing where the chariot leads.

I wrap my right arm around Rue's shoulder, holding her close. Trying to ground her back from this overwhelming setup.

"Hey, Rue? Remember the time we played Knights and Dragons during breaks at the orchard?" I ask, "Just pretend all these people are cheering us after we slayed the evil dragon, yeah?"

"I remember you slipping and falling on your ass-!" Rue chuckles at the memory.

"No swearing for you, missy! But yes, I did fall on my ass." I reprimand but my smile betrays me.

"Now, be that brave girl that slayed the foul beast." I held her hand as the chariot moves.

The sound of thousands—if not millions—of people cheering, screaming and probably already betting on who's going to die.

My eyes scan the stadium before landing on a 'glass skinned', black haired, tall man. OH. MY. GOD. "Jackson fucking Wang. IN THIS ECONOMY?!"

I blink, shaking my head at the absurdity, "Nope, nope. I need sleep. That's all."

The roars of "fans" snap me back with the help of Rue's hand, I give her a gentle squeeze. Our faces appear on the big screen thing in real time. Rue's wearing an adorable yellow dress decorated with white petal accent that stops at her ankle. Saff put me in a bold red dress with a long lightweight stole that flows behind me, red petals on the stole. Our heads adorned with silver wheat sprig headpieces. Flower petals begin to stream from our dresses, leaving a flower trail behind us of white and red. Just like the cherry blossoms back home.

Rue waves at them with a smile while I stand beside her like a rock.

The roar just got higher as District 12's entrance is indeed a "wow" moment. Fire flickering behind them from their clothes, fitting for the coal District.

The chariots start to divide, 6 on the left, 6 on the right, facing him. Coriolanus Snow. Old man with white hair, probably coughs daily now.

He waves his hand, silencing the crowd. "Welcome...! Welcome...! Tributes, we welcome you. We salute your courage and your sacrifice... and we wish you... Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favour."

"That's it? All this get up for a short welcome?" I thought at the absurdity. "I got itchy crotch for this shit??"

///////////////////////////////////////??? POV///////////////////////////////////////

"Kittredge, you are one interesting tribute. This is gonna be so much fun~." I smirk, loving her presence.

Chapter Text

"In a few days, 23 of you will be dead. One of you will be alive. Who that is depends on how well you pay attention over the next four days, particularly to what I'm about to say. First, no fighting with the other tributes. You'll have plenty of time for that in the Arena." Atala, the Head Trainer, informed all 24 of us as we made a semi-circle around her.

"There are four compulsory exercises, and then the rest will be individual training. My advice is don't ignore the survival skills. Everybody wants to grab a sword, but most of you will die from natural causes. 10% from infection, 20% from dehydration. Exposure can kill as easily as a knife." She advised, looking at every one of us.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Yesterday's training session was weird. I felt eyes on Rue and I a lot more than I could pinpoint where or who was staring. Why were they staring? Because I got picked on the boys' bowl? Because I'm fat? WHAT WAS THE REASOONNN? "They're just jealous I could probably sit on them or trample them on the ground."

My hands are currently working on starting a fire using different methods. I hold 2 stones before striking them against each other to find a spark or not. If not, I change the rocks and try again. Chert and flint are the easiest to find and are most definitely in the arena. How do I know? The Games always has a river or pond in their arenas, probably to trick 'players' into drinking only for it to be poisoned or something.

Whack. Whack. Wha-.

"YES!" I raise my hands up as the spark turns into fire. I drop the stones, leaning towards it to blow more oxygen.

I hear footsteps walking closer towards me as I spread the fire apart before beating it down. The smoke and flame slowly diminishing. Except the embers.

"Yes, Rue?" I ask, not looking up as I know her footsteps.

"I need to pee." Rue whispers, not wanting to go alone. Who would? We're in a training room full of people who might actually fight despite Atala's warnings.

I quickly usher her to the bathroom, the same pair of eyes staring at the back of my head and I think...my ass? "What a perve."

Since we're in the bathroom, might as well use the time to pee as well. Better than having accidental leaks during combat training. The bathroom is so fancy for what? Black walls with gold trims, gold handles, marbled flooring and white ceiling that look like white roses. "All this just so my District could starve? The hell?"

I wipe and flush before pulling my pants up, the fabric almost skin-tight it's basically emphasizing my body shape. Rue and I wash our hands before shaking them slightly before wiping dry. The bathroom floor squeaking from the friction of our anti-slip shoes as we leave the bathroom.

"Remember, I'll be in your view whenever you need me." I assure her, fixing her hair. Rue nods, walking towards her trainer, clearly not liking being apart from me.

I turn to walk back to my trainer only to be met by a sturdy but squishy wall. I look up to see District 2's 'Heir' or "Golden Boy', Cato Hadley. This boy has too many titles that I don't even remember it all.

"...." I just continue to stare up at him.

"....So, you're Kittredge Calamondin Raven de Luta Apple Naos Ember Solaris Lunario the Seventh." Cato gasps for air, "Long ass name. Why?" sounding genuinely curious than his usual cocky and explosive personality from yesterday.

"Why do you know my full name?" Because what the fuck?

"Because I have ears and a brain." He remarks. Sassy. I like that.

"Uh huh. You sure you weren't just spying on me?" I question, eyeing him up and down.

"Maybe. Or maybe the 'boy' from 11 piqued my interest." He says it so casually, his arms crossed.

"Hm. Take a good look, might be the only thing you'll remember in your death." I say, provoking what he'll do. I notice how the corner of his lip twitches, almost a smirk. 

"I'd love that but I'm winning this year's game." He says leaning down to my height, so sure of himself. Its either confidence or arrogance. Either way, too much of anything is a weakness.

"Let's place a bet then, 'Golden Boy'." I hold his chin, my thumb caressing his cheek. I feel him stiffen slightly at my touch, his eyes twitching at the sensation.

"What kind of bet?" He immediately asks, almost too eager for the thrill.

"Keep your 'Career Pack' away from me and my sister. If we're the last ones, let's have a one-on-one spar. No weapons, just us." My hand slowly trailing down his throat, feeling his Adam's apple bobbing. Hell, I feel his pulse quicken.

"Why?" His voice slightly hoarse as I feel his neck get slightly hot.

"Don't ask, baby. Deal or no deal?" My hand gently squeezing his windpipe, not to hurt but to make him feel the rush.

"....Deal. But that doesn't mean I'm not hunting you down." He threatens, my hand slowly falling from his neck even though he seems to want more.

"That I can do." I offer my hand, an agreement, which he returned with his calloused and firm hand.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

"You took my knife! Where is it?!" Cato's explosive personality is back, not even 20 minutes later. He begins sizing up poor District 6's Jason Torq, getting up close and personal with a shove.

"I didn't take your knife!" Jason argues back.

"Admit it! Admit it! And maybe I won't punch you in the head right now!" Cato threatens. Jeez.

Thankfully a peacekeeper withholds any fights from breaking. "You're dead first!" Cato threatens as he's dragged away from Jason.

I look up to find Rue on the ceiling, strapped by the lines of ropes, smiling as she plays with Cato's knife on her hands. A small amused grin plastered on my face despite me shaking my head slightly. 

"You are in trouble, missy!" I mouth, jokingly scolding her to which she sticks her tongue out in return.

Chapter Text

///////////////////////////////////Cato POV///////////////////////////////////

"It has been 3 days since her hands touched me. Why can I still feel it? Focus, dammit!" I thought, splashing my face with cold water. I remember agreeing so easily, what was that about?

Today's the day we get evaluated. I have to be perfect. I have to. My whole purpose is for the Capitol's Glory.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Glimmer goes first to show off her skills to the evaluators. After, it's her partner Marvel. Then Clove and then me. Until it reaches those District 11 and 12's turn.

"Their scores won't even reach ours. They'll be lucky to even hit 5." Clove arrogantly says as she eyes the Districts. Typical of her.

"Maybe. But it's better to overestimate than under." I reason despite knowing she won't listen, I may have taught her to be too cocky. Oh well.

"Clove! You're next!" An official calls out, waiting for her to be escorted.

"You got this." I pat her shoulder, knowing she'll show off her knife throwing skills.

"I know." She says as she walks away making me sigh.

Knowing each interview is typically 15 minutes long, my eyes survey the room trying to intimidate others before landing on her on the bench. My legs move on their own until I'm standing in front of her and her sister.

Her eyes trail up to look at me. Her voice is something, "Cato, what's up?"

I blink at her casualness, it's not the first time with her, no. Still, it shocks me as she should be cowering in fear or intimidation. Not whatever this is.

"...Hi. Just checking on you, that's all." I say, slowly squat down to her level that our knees are almost touching. A strange sensation crawls up my spine.

"Cute. What's the actual reason?" Kittredge probes, suspicion in her eyes as her hand gently pat a sleeping Rue, I believe is her name, on the head.

I shrug, not sure myself.

She raises her brows slightly before speaking, "Anyway, what 'show' will you give the audience?"

I look around before leaning close but she did something unpredictable. Soft air escape my lips as her knee is on my chest, stopping me from leaning too close. "I have no idea what's happening but...damn..."

"What're you doing?" Her brows furrow, confusion and more suspicion in her eyes.

"I was going to whisper in you ear about what I'll do." I instantly respond, no pressure needed. "But, if you're like that, fine. I won't tell you."

Her eyes maintained with mine, her pupils dilating as if checking me inside out. My attention went to her face, I didn't notice how many beauty marks she has. One on the right side of her chin, one between her eyelids and eyebrows, some on her temples, and both eyes have one below.

"...to Cato. Come in. You there?" Her voice pulls me out of the trance. Her knee still preventing me from getting close.

"Uhh, yeah, yeah. You were saying?" I gulp slightly as my hand somehow places itself above her knee. I look at her and she...didn't seem to mind.

"Go. Your name's called." She says, signalling towards the official waiting for me.

"Ah, right. I'll shock you with my score." I say as I stand up, trying to save face despite my subtle pink ears.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

My hand grips the handle tightly, like an extension of me. Slashing away at the dummy's limbs and 'critical' spots.

SWING the arms. SH-WIING the legs. CRUNCH on the head. STAB the heart.

Sooner or later, that's someone.

With a slight pant, I look up at the Gamemakers in their seating area as they drink. Some clapped, some impressed, some are...ignoring me? How dare they.

I internally growl before spitting out, "Want more? I can give more!"

My booming voice echoes in this big, almost empty room, waiting for their answer, for a challenge. Show them I can tank anything they throw at me.

A man with a yellow tie in black suit speaks, "You have my vote if...you brawl."

"That's it?" I scoff at the 'challenge'. "Fine, who do I fight?"

"A dog." He says with a cruel 'polite' smirk. "A mutated one."

Before I could speak, a blurry figure comes running towards me in my peripheral vision. My grip tightens on the handle of my sword, using both hands to swing at the damn abomination like a baseball bat.

I only managed to place a deep cut on its shoulder but not enough to kill this thing. It's still standing and growling. "Why am I fighting this?!"

"Boo! I said brawl!" The man in yellow tie shouts in displeasure.

In anger, I drop my blade. My fists hammering the mutt's flesh as I dodge it's teeth.

"That's more like it!" Yellow tie man hollers in excitement. Some actual show for them instead of the usual dummy versus human.

Pained grunts escape my lips as the mutt's sharp teeth dig into my ankle, refusing to let go. Adrenaline surging through me. My rough hands grab the mutt by the fur and ears, yanking to let it free my leg. Ripped fur falls loose before my knee smashes with its head. "You are dead meat, mutt!"

I pin the mutt down by the head before punching the sides hard. It yelps in pain like a dog but I didn't care, it bit me. I got up quick before stomping the head. CRUNCH. CRUNCH. THUMP. SPLAT. To be sure, I pick up the heavy carcass and suplex it on the concrete floor. CRACK. 

I lay on the ground for a while, letting go of the mutt. My chest heaving heavily as I stand up, blood and sweat dripping down. I look at the man in yellow tie, "Are you not entertained?!"

"Good show! Good show!" The Gamemakers cheer, clapping even.

All that rage, annoyance and whatnot vanish in an instant. Now replaced by pride, arrogance and cockiness. I smirk as I limp my way out of the gymnasium. "You better give me a 12."

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

My ankle bruise and bite free, with the help of the Capitol's advance medical technology. No worries about being dead weight in the arena. Thank fuck.

The sun has set, the evaluation is over. The scores are going to be announced soon.

"I better have 12." I mutter under my breath as I wait on the sofa. Clove isn't present as she's confident her score is high. "Little shit." I chuckle softly at her confidence.

"D1 8 and 9. Clove and I, 10 and...10?? ALL THAT FOR A MEASLY 10?!" I punch the sofa, "I've been robbed!"

Max and Marina, also Careers from the Fishing District, score 8 and 9. "Not bad. Better be useful with harpoons."

I seethe before calming down as I watch others get lower than 10. "Good. They're all useless. Easy kill."

Until theirs. Kittredge and Katniss.

Chapter Text

///////////////////////////An hour Ago////////////////////////////

"Saff, I thought you wouldn't make me wear a dress!" I whined like a child at the thought of wearing one again. "Whyyyy?? Why must you punish meeee?"

"I made no promises, sweetheart." He said, holding up another dress with that shit-eating grin. 

///////////////////////////10 Minutes Ago////////////////////////////

"What happens during the interview?" I asked Seeder and Chaff, my arms back hugged Rue as she played with my long dress.

"Well, depends really." Seeder started then Chaff finishes, "It varies every year. But still the same information/sell out."

"What they meant is...just be yourself or fake a persona." Lucius surprisingly said softly, "But do make it dramatic! We need drama!"

////////////////////////////////Now/////////////////////////////////

After being lined up and escorted towards Caesar Flickerman? Fickleman? Whatever 'man' is it, we're here now. Lined up and waiting for our turn. Not going to lie, Caesar's opening song is a catch. It's upbeat, sounds nice.

I tap my finger to the rhythm of the instrument making the tooting sound. Rue twirls around in her green gossamer gown complete with shimmering wings to give me a curious squint. 2 blue butterfly clips, one on each side of her head.

"Don't act like it's not catchy." I roll my eyes playfully.

She plays along with a dramatic sigh, "Fine, fineee. It is catchy.."

Our eyes divert back to the screen in front of us as we wait.

"Ladies and gentlemen, our master of ceremonies, Caesar Flickerman!" A voice announces, followed by hoots and clapping from the audience.

"Thank you! Thank you!" Caesar greets before bowing with a smile.

As Caesar talks to the audience, my eyes notice how some of us were dressed. It's...very Capitol of them.

Glimmer Quartz confidently walks across the stage once her name is called, waving at people. Her dress is quite pretty. Halter top that shows off her arms and almost her boobs. The dress ending right at the mid thigh section. Slit in the middle for whatever reason. The fabric colour matches her skin. "Eh? Why can I see- Oh. NOPE NOPE NOPE."

I quickly turn Rue around to face me, "Don't look until I say so."

Rue opens her mouth before nodding as she knew my stare meant 'don't argue on this'. "Why is it see through? Don't tell me her stylist wants her to weaponize her looks and body to get sponsors." 

The scene is not helping at all. Caesar 'jokingly' wants to touch her dress before calling himself "bad boy" to then he asks Glimmer to slap his hand and she does. He then asks to be slapped again."Eugh."

~~~

Marvel Pirf's interview seems to be wanting to continue a family legacy. His dad being a 'hunter' and he wants to continue that ever since he was a child. Wow.

Caesar and Marvel stand up as the audience claps. Caesar raises Marvel's hand up, "Everyone, Marvel!" 

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

"I have heard that you are quite facile with a knife." Caesar states, his brow arched.

"I'm the best." Clove says, tilting her head slightly with confidence.

"I could kill you from here across the stage." Declares Clove, her eyes never straying from his.

"She's feisty!" Caesar talks to the crowd with a laugh while scooting away from her, "That is so District 2."

~~~

"You are here by choice. Why?" Caesar questions Cato Hadley.

"I mean, I think these are the greatest games ever invented." Cato replies while fidgeting in his seat, "I just wanna be here to win it. I think it's awesome and it's been something I've wanted to do since I was a kid."

Caesar nods while smiling between him and the audience.

"I think anybody who doesn't want to is an idiot." Cato smugly says with a smile, confident that the Game is a sport. "It's amazing."

Caesar laughs while shaking his head, "Well, I wouldn't go that far."

"I'd go farther than that." Cato interrupts, pushing off his seat a bit. His arms open and voice deep, "ITS THE HUNGER GAMES!" I think I saw his bare chest.

The crowd loves it, of course they do. Cato basking in their applause.

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Max Trawl, above average height, ectomorph build, brunet, green eyes, dimples that makes him a charmer. Marina Trawl, taller than her brother, mesomorph build, red hair, deep brown and deep blue eyes, also has charming dimples. Twins. Poor them...I think.

"Mhm! Yeah, I volunteered with my sister. We want to show everyone that the Careers are Districts 1, 2 AND 4." Max says. "We've been underestimated for a while but I know my sister and I will bring victory to our people."

"Even if it means killing each other." Marina says flatly, as if killing your sibling is such a normal thing to do.

"Oh my.... Such a complicated family dynamic! It's been a while since we had siblings as tributes." Caesar's eyes glint as he smiles.

~~~

"Lunatics. Careers' are lunatics." I thought, "Surely they can't be this ready to kill one another?"

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Finch Delta, District 5. Red hair, fair skin, amber eyes. Reminds me of a—.

"Some people call me 'Foxface'." Finch says. 

"Foxface?" Caesar repeats, earning a few chuckles from the crowd.

"I see, the hair and eyes!" He snaps his fingers in realization, "Well, do you have any special skills you can tell us about?"

"I'm very smart," she claims, her eyes look away before facing Caesar again. "I believe that no weapons can match a brain."

"Oooo." Says the crowd unanimously.

"I like that. I like that a lot." He nods, impressed by her motto. 

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

"Finally. Sheesh." I mutter under my breath. 

We've been standing for an hour. No chairs, no pee breaks, no snacks. Nothing. It's just me and District 12 waiting for our turn. This sucks.

"So you climb trees and is pretty quick." Caesar lists before questioning Rue, "And are you a hunter, a gatherer, a scavenger?"

Rue's eyes barely meet his, her hands fidgeting with her fingers. "Think of Knights and Dragons...You got this, Rue."

"Well...I can find food." She says, not sure what else to say. Her legs sway subtly to distract herself from the eyes.

"What about weaponry? Are you good with a knife? A gun?" He asks, trying to make her standout for sponsors.

"Say the slingshot." I say under my breath, knowing she has good aim with it.

"Well, I'm good with a slingshot." She smiles slightly, finally looking at him. "Good."

"A sling shot, I like it." Caesar points at her while looking at the audience. "How old are you?"

"12." She responds.

"12 years old, amazing." He repeats, "Such composure. You had a little catchphrase that you told me backstage. I was very impressed with it. Would you please repeat it for the audience?"

Rue sighs softly before looking at Caesar, "If they can't catch me, they can't kill me."

The crowd goes 'ahhh', 'aweee' or whatever that sound was. Empathy? Pity?

"Come on." He says, placing a gentle hand on hers as he looks at the flashy people. "Folks, what do you think?"

They give her a soft round of applause as Caesar and Rue stand up.

"Everyone, Rue Barnette!" Caesar ends her interview, raising her hand gently. Soft claps now replaced by whistles and energetic ones.

Chapter Text

I'm next. My heart elevating slightly, my hand clammy as I walk up. Everyone has a title, Glimmer is 'Miss Shiny' for her name and looks , Cato as 'D2's Heir', Rue as 'Wisp' and so on. "Wonder what mine will be. I swear, it better not be 'Long-ass Name'."

"Now, the moment we have been waiting for. Kittredge the Glitch!" Caesar announces, the crowd cheering hard. It's deafening.

I had no choice but to walk towards him. "You got this. You've skinned snakes, you can handle a little...'sell out'. Fake it till you make it."

Saff, my "dear" stylist, made the dress even longer than the one during the Parade. What a "great" idea. I have to rumple up some fabric so I don't trip.

Right foot, left foot, right foot, lef- I slip. The 5 inch heels PLUS the mile long fabric? It's a recipe for disaster.

"Oh!" Caesar exclaims, helping to stabilize me. "Careful now."

"Sorry. Not used to being...dolled up." I say, holding onto his arm for support.

"Don't be, dear. Every one of us experienced that once in a while. Isn't that right, folks?" He laughs with the audience.

We finally sit down, the train of my dress filling out half of the stage. "I'm skinning Saff later."

"Kittredge, dear, we have so many questions and are dying to know your answers. How on earth did you glitch as a 'male' tribute? How do you feel about it? And do tell, why is your name beautifully long? It's like a poem to my ears." Caesar asks, putting his two index fingers under his chin as he leans forward.

"Uh, well... I'm not entirely sure, Caesar. I got dressed and all, expecting to be either reaped from the ladies bowl or not at all." I say, pausing as I try to unpack all of his questions. "As for how I feel about it? Funny enough, I'm glad. It means I'm in the arena with my sister, so I can look out after her. And as for the long name? Honestly, I've been asking myself that same question for years."

"Your sister? I'm betting my hat it's Rue?" He asks to which I nod. Some gasps from the crowd.

"Yes. Her family took me in when I was young and since then, I became their own daughter." I say with a smile, remembering my whole family back home.

The crowd awes, moved by the sudden family theme.

"Wouldn't that mean you'll have to-" He couldn't even finish his question.

"No." I stare at him with determination and finality. "If Rue and I are last, I'm letting her win. No matter what."

"Oh my." He sighs softly, "The Trawl twins and now Kittredge and Rue, this is an interesting collection of Tributes this year. Isn't that right?" 

Many nod their heads or hum in agreement.

"Now, do tell me, my dear. Do you have a specialty? A role you play back home? What about weaponry?"

"I'd say I'm good with a knife, trapping and a staff." I list, "My role? I'd say...provider."

"A provider you say? Interesting! Care to tell us more?" He digs deeper.

"Mmmm, nope. I can't tell you all my secrets, Caesar." I chuckle, he returns one back.

"I must say, your dress...it's marvelous! Who's your stylist again?" He asks as if trying to connect some dots.

"Saff. He and I tend to disagree on what I wear. But at least he knows what he's doing, sometimes." I call out playfully.

"HAHA!" He laughs, "Tell him I loved the streaming petals during the Parade, that was brilliant! Do tell, how did those colours tie to your District?"

"Rue's dress is inspired by the flower, common rue. As for my red one, cardinal flowers. They're everywhere back home." I say, looking at the crowd before looking back at him. "When the colours mix, it reminded me of cherry blossoms. Does it not?"

He watches the Parade scene behind us, "Ahhh, wonderful! It does indeed remind me of cherry blossoms! Your stylist is one brilliant man!" 

His eyes keep squinting at my dress. Weird.

"Caesar? What is it?" I probe, already feeling uncomfortable in this dress and his stare just amps it up.

"Hmm...wait just a moment!" He snaps his finger, "Aha! Ladies and gentlemen, look at her dress. Does it not remind you of a certain boy from...hmm, let's say District 2~?"

"What?" My eyes squinting slightly, mouth partially open, my head slightly leaning forward. Somehow my confused expression is hilarious to them.

"Cato, come up here!" Caesar motions him back up. "What the fuck is happening??"

The moment Cato walks up, the crowd erupts in hollers, gasps and agreement. Caesar makes sure Cato stands beside me. The top of my head just right at his Adam's Apple. 

I look at his steel blue blazer and my dress. And...yeah, we're "matching". Great.

"...Is this a setup? Saff is so dead."

"You two look adorable! Don't they?" Caesar awes with the crowd as I just stand there like a tree. Cato however, seems to be playing along just fine.

His arm slowly snakes around my waist, pulling me close. My body stiffens slightly with a shiver. "What kind of twisted—?"

"That's what I felt when you held my chin and when you used your knee on me." Cato whispers in my ear, tilting his head down slightly. I feel air being sucked from my neck, his nose smelling the crook of my neck before he pulls his head back up.

The crowd squeals in excitement about our close proximity. Their reaction makes his actions more...daring.

"Cato, my my!" Caesar laughs, clapping his hands. "We must simply know. Are you two—?"

"NOPE! Nope, nope." I deny, hopeful that Cato gets the memo.

"Who knows? We might be during the Arena." Cato winks at the audience, earning giggles and whistles.

"I love it! Unfortunately, that's all the time we'll have with you." Caesar reminds. We probably got over 5 minutes. Still, glad it's over.

"Kittredge!" Caesar raises my hand once more, letting the crowd clap for me.

As I waddle my way out the stage, careful not to fall again. Cato holds the extra fabric before suddenly picking me up from the front. He bends down, wraps his arm around the back of my knees, carrying me on his shoulders like a sack of potatoes. 

"Cato—! Put me down!" My view is upside down. All I see is the floor and his ass. Tempting.

The crowd is absolutely feral. Drama really is their shit. 

Chapter Text

It's morning. Rue's small hands grip my shirt like a vice, not wanting to let go. Her face still tear-stained as she sleeps.

Last night...after Cato lowered me back down, Rue immediately ran up and started banging her fist onto my chest. I remember tears streaming from her eyes as she wailed before collapsing into my arms.

Hearing me declare that I would kill myself just to let her win, is obviously mortifying for a child like her. She knew I would give up my life just to keep her alive, but that doesn't mean it isn't terrifying to hear. Because that day will eventually come.

My fingers gently stroke her hair. "Wakey wakey...time to get up."

Nothing.

I chuckle softly before poking her cheek, "Wake up or I'm telling Thresh you stole his—"

Her grip on my shirt tightens, bunching the fabric as she rubs her eyelids.

"Hehe, morning, sleepyhead." I greet gently.

She hums softly, nuzzling close to me instead. My hand gently patting her head.

We lie in silence for 10 minutes before eating with Chaff, Seeder and Lucius.

Lucius keeps talking and talking, too early for morning. My ears zone him out naturally.

Seeder speaks, "Kittredge, dear. Utilize Cato for sponsors. The 'Golden Boy' can—"

"Only if I need to." I strategically say, eating my food. 

"Only?!" Lucius gasps, his spoon dramatically falling from his hand. "No, no, no! You MUST need to! More drama equals the more sponsors you shall get!"

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

"Once that timer hits zero, I want you to run fast and far away from the centre. Do NOT wait for me. Don't even think about turning back to see me. Just run and hide. Climb trees if there's any." I instruct Rue, gently gripping her shoulders. "Do I make myself clear, Rue?"

Her eyes teary as she nods, "I understand..."

"One more thing. Stay put. Whether it's a cave, a tree, or whatever, I'll find you after 24 hours is up. So please...take care of yourself for the next 30-ish hours." I speak softly, already dreading what may come.

Tears fall from her eyes, warm on the skin but not comforting. I wipe her cheeks gently, placing soft kisses around her face.

"I love you so much." My voice cracks slightly as I crouch down to let us hug, which may be our last.

"I love you too, sis..." She sniffles against my hair.

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

8:00 AM, Chaff and I make our way to the elevator. Seeder is with Rue, escorting her to her own private hovercraft.

Chaff is telling me something but all I could hear were parts of it.

"...run...bloodbath..." Chaff's words fade in and out of my ears. "Pedestal....timer...boom..."

"....you listening? Kittredge." Chaff shakes me slightly.

"Huh?" I snap my head towards him, blinking.

"I said, don't get off the pedestal or you will blow to bits." Chaff informs, "A dead sister won't help Rue. Stay. On. The. Pedestal."

I sigh, "I know. I know. Does it hurt knowing we may not survive?" 

He pauses, "That's the thing, we try not to get too attached to our tributes. Hurts less."

"Right, right. Stupid question." I chuckle humourlessly.

DING. We've reached the floor. We both step out, my 'own' hovercraft waiting for me.

"I'm not good with 'goodbyes'...so...see you later?" I say with uncertainty.

He chuckles slightly, "Yeah, see you later."

He gives me a pat on the shoulder, which I awkwardly return. "Why am I like this?"

I smile slightly before walking towards the hovercraft. As soon as I sit down, someone in white comes in and tells me to show my arm. I comply as I want this over with. I flinch slightly as they stick in a metal thing that looks like a gun but isn't a gun in my forearm.

"What's this?" I ask, poking around the area of my arm as it slowly bleeds out. The puncture hole isn't big, roughly the size of a black rat snake's eye.

"Your tracker." They say before immediately leaving.

"Rude. Not even a bandage." I scowl.

/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

After what feels like hours, the hovercraft lands. Without letting me stretch my legs, 2 Peacekeepers then escort me into a room before locking me inside. I see a bed, a table, a little bathroom, and a clock.

"Is this what prison looks like?" I question at the sudden change of 'glamour'.

I look at the clock, 9 am. One more hour before it starts.

I sigh and sit on the chair. I almost slip as the chair seems to have wheels and it spins. Finding nothing to distract myself, I just spin round and around. Occasionally pushing from one wall to the other.

Minutes pass by while I launch my legs off the concrete walls, aiming to reach the table with snacks provided by the 'generous' Capitol.

Mid-bite, the door opens, it's Saff.

I look at the clock, 9:30 am. Time surely flies when you're preoccupied.

"Must you be weird in every way?" Saff sighs dramatically, to which I just shrug.

I stand up, brushing away any crumbs off me. "What attire shall 'Saff the Asshole' make me wear today? Could it be another long dress that will surely help me trip?"

"Ha, ha. Funny." He rolls his eyes, earning a slight chuckle from me. "Unfortunately, no. You'll be wearing this set."

He holds up a lightweight jacket, cargo pants, sturdy boots, and a dark, long-sleeved thermal shirt.

"Oh, thank fuck. Actual clothes." I let out a deep sigh of relief.

He chuckles as he gives me the clothes and leaves, knowing that I like my privacy.

~~~

I stare at my body in the mirror. "I look good." I keep striking poses because why not.

"Having fun, Glitch?" Saff's voice appears out of nowhere, making me flinch.

"Jeez—. Aren't you all supposed to be 'better' than us? So, like, knock." I say in annoyance, fixing my hair.

"Yeah, yeah. Sit so I can fix that horrible hair of yours." He smiles softly, pushing the chair towards me.

I sit down in front of the mirror. His deft hands comb to gather all of my hair, twisting it into a braid until it fully wraps around the back of my head, securing it with a hair tie and pins.

I stand up before thrashing my head up and down, side to side. I stop shortly to check if it stays on. It does.

"O....kay." Saff blinks before giving me something, "The Makers cleared your token. It's...a pretty ring, really. Who gave it?"

I take the ring from him, my thumb rubbing against the engraving before sliding it on my finger. "A friend back home."

"A friend or~?" He teases, mischief in his eyes.

"Tch, shut up." I roll my eyes, somewhat playfully.

He sighs, adjusting my jacket. "Even though you're a pain, I'll miss you. Somewhat."

"There you go again. Making things dramatic and sappy." I groan slightly, "But yeah, I'll miss you torturing me with 'dress etiquette'."

"30 seconds before launch." A voice interrupts from the walls.

I push away when he leans close, "Wha—?"

"Calm down, just a peck." He says placing a soft peck on my forehead.

"Oh...Thanks." I say before tiptoeing to peck his forehead back.

Shock on his face but smiles fully, one of his genuine ones. "Good luck, Kittredge. And to your sister."

I nod and walk inside the glass tubes. "Hope this thing can carry my weight." The transparent doors cage me in.

I look back at Saff, who is giving me a thumbs up with worry written on his face. 

"Worrying makes you look old." I say with a smile right as the tube rises up, not letting me hear his smart remarks or his reaction.

Chapter Text

My hands instinctively cover my eyes from the sun's glare. Soft breeze grazing my skin. I look around, trees, people and, of course, the stockpile. A lure for desperate children.

A male voice booms in the arena, counting down from 60.

My eyes spot Rue on the other end of the semi circle, between Max from 4 and Glimmer from 1.

Shit.

Rue looks tiny between those Careers. 

"10. 9. 8. 7." The countdown continues.

"Run for the trees, Rue. Run for it." I mutter under my breath.

"4. 3. 2. 1."

Metal screeches against metal, signalling it's time.

I watch as Rue runs for the trees, fast. Relief fills me before adrenaline takes over. Careers already wiping out tributes. 

I quickly run to snatch a bag, watching Clove throw a knife at a boy about to kill Katniss before chasing after her. I turn to make my escape but I need a weapon. 

I look at the dead body. A dagger sticking out.

"I'm sorry." I whisper as I pull it out, wiping the blood off with the dead one's jacket. I check my surroundings before locking eyes with Cato.

He doesn't move or attack, just standing there...menacingly hot. I nod at him before sprinting for the trees.

Leaves and branches hang low, slapping my face as I pass through.

"Never look back. Or you'll faceplant on the ground." I repeat in my head, still running as far as I can from the Circle.

I can still hear voices, not far enough. I push my legs despite knowing I'm not cut out for long distances. Only short bursts.

~~~

Far away from the centre. Far away from Rue. My legs give out, making me stumble onto the leafy ground. My chest heaves, sweat already dripping down my temples. I lean against a log for support, letting my legs rest.

I open the bag to find some sort of thin blanket, rope, an empty water bottle with some packets, a flashlight with batteries, a pair of night-vision goggles and food, crackers and dried meat.

"I never thought I'd be happy to see you." I clutch the night-vision goggles, chuckling at the irony. Peacekeepers would often give us these and force us to work at night, when snakes are most active.

I open one pack of crackers before munching, saving the meat for Rue.

BOOM. BOOM. BOOM.

I flinch at the sound of cannons, stress rising up as it keeps going. It stops.

"10 cannons...almost half gone..." I let out a shaky breath, "Please be alive..."

///////////////////////////Rue POV///////////////////////////

I've run as far and fast as I could, just as she instructed, deep into the woods. I feel like a lost child waiting to be rescued. Like back home, children who played in the woods often got lost as they forgot the way.

I'm scared. I don't want to be a lost child. I want my family, my pet. I miss my bed. Tears pool my eyes before I quickly wipe them away.

"Crying won't help. Keep yourself alive and wait for Kitt." I coach myself, trying to be brave like her. "Just until tomorrow comes."

~~~

I managed to find food, blackberries and blueberries. I stuff them into my jacket pocket before climbing a tree. It's a good tree. It has 3 burls making a natural nest-like shape. Perfect for me.

I lean against the walls of the burl, snacking on the fruits as the sky turns orange to grayish-black. The symbol of Panem appears in the sky, along with music. 

"Woah..." I gawk softly mid-bite.

Tribute by Tribute, it showed who died. No names, just District number and face. I wait for my District but it never came. It ended on District 10's girl. 

I let out a soft but happy, "Yes!" Juice drips down onto my jacket as I accidentally clutched the berries. I quickly lick my hands.

///////////////////////////Kittredge POV///////////////////////////

After struggling—and definitely didn't lose my footing just to climb a tree—I finally did it. Well, after wrapping the rope around the tree as my support. Luckily, the tree has its own natural nest-like dip on its trunk, big enough for my legs to criss-cross and high enough not to be spotted.

My back leans against the bark. My lips finally rehydrate as I sip water from my now filled water bottle. The river water may be fine to drink on its own, but why risk that when there's a purifying packet? And the magic behind it? Like I would know.

I watch as the anthem and the flashing images fade into the night sky. She's alive. Relief and pride swell in my heart.

I strap the night-vision glasses around my eyes, softly munching on some more crackers as I scout my area. All I see is variations of green. There's nothing much. Just some animals roaming, the stars being more clear, some big movement, some—.

"AAHH!" A girl's scream, coming from my East, echoes through the forest before it abruptly ends. Followed by a cannon going off.

"11 tributes in one day." I mutter. "It's not Rue though. Not her scream."

My body pivots to focus on the East, the goggles still strapped on my face. From afar, I see a lump in the shape of a human body strapped against the tree. Below that, a group of 6. Probably Careers teaming up, for now.

I take off the goggles, rubbing my eyelids after using them. I store them back in my bag, and take out the thin blanket. I wrap the blanket around me as the temperature could drop at any time. Especially at night.

I sigh, looking up in the sky, the view is pretty. The situation isn't. 

Chapter Text

It's still dark, most likely 5 am. A typical wake up call. 

A yawn escapes my lips as I stretch. I grab the goggles, letting them hang on my neck. Then I pack the blanket back into my bag, taking out some crackers for breakfast before zipping it shut. Slowly, I climb back down until I reach the ground.

I slide the goggles over my eyes, letting me see clearly in this still dark morning. I grab a nearby branch, tall enough to be my height and sturdy. It's a walking stick, a weapon and a tool at once. It comes in very handy just in case my legs are about to be chopped off by some trap. Imagine dying from that.

I start walking my way back to the Centre. I need supplies. And it's easier to find her that way.

~~~

I'm currently crouching in the bushes, outside of the Centre's perimeter. The goggles show me that the area is empty. No flashes, no human figures. Not even the dead ones. The scattered supplies are still there. I could grab one and go but I'm pretty sure I noticed a slingshot inside the metal thing.

Slowly, I make my way towards the Centre. My steps light as they can be. Right hand holding the branch, left hand holding the dagger. I avoid the pedestals, not sure where the said explosives are located.

I peek around the corner of the Centre's mouth, making sure it's fully empty before rushing in. It's not. Careers sleeping, using the Centre as their shelter. "Smart." 

"Glimmer, Clove, Marina, Marvel, Max and.... Where's Ca—?" My thoughts get interrupted as I feel someone looming over me. Their breath fanning my neck.

I slowly turn around to face him. Cato in shades of green. My eyes follow his movements as he walks past me and towards the weapons. "Ah, crap. The bet didn't wor—." I raise my branch, ready to fight him with it.

Instead of a sword or whatever weapon he uses, he grabs the slingshot set and a bag...? He walks back towards me, holding it out for me to take. I secure the dagger into my makeshift rope thigh strap before taking them from him. His touch cold against my warm hands. "Maybe he does remember."

He's quiet. Unexpected from him since he's usually loud. Or he doesn't want to wake up his 'Pack'. Not sure what to do, I tiptoe and peck his cheek, my hand using his chest as a better support than the branch.

"Thank you." I whisper against his ear before making my way out.

///////////////////////////Cato POV///////////////////////////

I walk around the Base, checking the perimeter while the others are fast asleep. And mostly because I couldn't sleep. My mind is full of her. The way she looks. Her voice. The stupid bet. Her touch. "I shouldn't be feeling this. Not when I'm...this."

I sigh, shaking my head to clear my thoughts.

"Don't be stupid." I mutter into the dark morning air. "I am Cato Hadley, District 2's Heir. Some girl from an oppressed District shouldn't have a hold on me."

I put my goggles back on before heading back to the Base to check on them. As I get closer, I see a figure standing in front of the opening. It's her.

Feeling mischievous, I creep towards her. Quiet and unnoticeable. I discard my goggles, making sure my face is the first thing she sees. Not some goggle-eyed person. She'll probably hit me if that was the case.

My body close enough to feel her bag on my torso. My head leans down before letting out a long exhale on her neck. She stiffens before slowly turning around to face me. "Don't smile. Don't wake the others up."

I stare down into her goggled-eyes, wanting to smile at how cute she seems but I can't. My eyebrow raises as I'm confused why she's here. Alone.

"Is she still finding that Small One?" I thought internally, remembering how she talked about her sister during her interview.

Realizing why, I walk past her and the others on the ground. I pick a bag full of pretty good contents, the slingshot and the ammo for it. I turn around to find her slightly on edge, her hand gripping her dagger and staff-like branch. "Ouch. She does not trust me much."

I hold the contents for her to get, showing her I still honour our bet. I want that spar. 

Her hands touch mine as she gets them all. Warm unlike my cold ones.

I thought she would just go, but no. She places her hand on my chest, gets on her tiptoes and pecks my cheek tenderly. My heart thumps against my chest. "Tell me you noticed it. Wait, don't."

"Thank you." She whispers in my ear before leaving me standing there like a statue. 

"What're you doing to me, Kittredge?..." I mutter under my breath, pressing my palm against my cheek where she just kissed. My eyes still following her movements despite the dark. 

I look at my sleeping 'companions' on the ground. They better be asleep. I won't hesitate to kill them if it meant I get to test her strength on me.

Chapter Text

///////////////////////////Rue POV///////////////////////////

It's now day 5. Kitt's nowhere to be found or seen. "Did she break her promise? No, no. Don't think like that. She probably got lost, got into a  fight with a tribute or—. Definitely not dead, that's for sure. Her face hasn't appeared up in the sky."

My hands are dyed purple from the blackberries and blueberries somehow leaving juice stains on my palms. And I'm sick of eating them. AND THEY'RE MY FAVOURITE!

I know she said to stay put, but this sucks. I'm moving. "Hope she doesn't scold me."

It's sunrise, perfect time to move. The others will most likely be asleep but there's just enough light for me to see.

 I peek around the tree's surroundings, making sure it's clear before I climb down. I throw some pebbles that I found during my berry picking into the bushes, hoping there's no one waiting for me.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////

After climbing tree after tree with still no sign of my sister, I decide to climb a high tree to take a break. High places are the best! It's hard to be found, shot at and easy for scouting.

GRUMBLE.

My stomach is growling. I need to eat, but I don't want to eat another berry! 

I examine the tree's outer bark, hoping to find something. A small crack in the bark. My eyes light up with excitement as I scoot closer, careful not to fall. I pry the outer bark off, revealing wood grubs!

I do a little happy dance, mostly just swinging my feet back and forth before taking a big, juicy looking one. They have ridges with creamy-white all over their body, dotted patterns on their sides, and their head has small pincers. Basically a caterpillar but more delicious!

I twist off its neck before pulling it out slowly, making sure the poop line comes with it. Then I squeeze some fat out of it before popping it into my mouth. The fat coats my mouth in a sweet creamy flavour with a hint of wood. "If only I could start a fire...Would taste even more amazing."

I toss the twisted head away before repeating the same process, eating as much as I can. 

5 grubs. I can only eat that much before I feel full. They pack a lot of protein and fats which is perfect for breakfast. At least that's what grandpa tells— I miss home...

~~~

I moved again. Not trees this time, I just moved onto a higher branch. As the sun slowly shines more, I look down and around. My eyes land on a sleeping body strapped onto the tree. It's the girl from District 12. The girl I secretly followed during training when Kitt was busy. Below her are Careers and isn't the guy in black jacket her District partner? 7 of them still asleep, except the blond girl. Probably waiting for the girl up the tree.

I watch as the blonde girl with 2 pigtail-braids looks around before pulling the sleeping blond boy in red jacket's arm out, using it as her pillow before going back to sleep. "Isn't that the big guy who carried Kitt? I wonder how Sis would react."

The girl up the tree is awake. 

"Psst! PSST!" I try to gain her attention.

She looks at my direction after a few seconds. I point above her head. A hive full of something, could be regular wasps or the tracker jackers. Then I point at the group below her, hoping she gets the memo.

Seeing her confusion, I clench my fist and move it in an angle before making a sawing motion.

"Drop it." I mouth while pointing back down at the group. I smile as she nods in understanding.

I watch her slowly and as quietly as she can to reach that hive. She uses the jagged side of her knife to cut the branch. It's going well until one by one they start to fly around her, occasionally stinging too. 

I think one stung her neck as she's holding her neck and her mouth is open in pain. I could only just watch, not really sure how to help. 

"Keep sawing...it's halfway there." I mutter softly, not wanting her to die as she reminds me of Kitt. And her dying means Sis is...

My hands clap fast but soft as the hive falls. It scatters on impact, making the flying insects angry and attack the Careers.

The stings and yelling wake each other up, and they flee with their partners. I think some of them are slapping their faces as they run.

The blond girl keeps screaming and falling. A swarm forming around her. On the other side, the girl from the tree slips her footing and falls.

No, no, no, no...

I shut my eyes and cover my ears, holding onto the branches. "Happy thoughts. Happy thoughts."