They say that when you're about to die, your whole life flashes before your eyes. Right now, as I am lying on the ground with a dent in my skull, I can tell you firsthand that it's true. Sort of. I'm a goner. I don't have to be bleeding to know that. That rock he smashed into my head more than did its job. It's only a matter of minutes now. But what I find flashing through what's left of my brain is a word. One word that summarizes my life, who I am. A word that shames me, haunts me, teases me, tortures me.
They told me this was what I was meant for. That this was how I could use my incredible talent. They said I would bring pride to my district, to my family. Why did I listen to them? Why didn't I realize the truth?
Now I see it. Now I see the damage I caused. I see the faces of those who directed me this way. I see the faces of those who warned me, who told me I was wrong, but I didn't listen to them. But worst of all, I see the faces of those I never knew, the ones who will never see the light of day again. The dead ones. The ones I killed.
He is here now, by my side. He begs me to stay with him, though I think he knows it's too late. Oh, Cato, if only you could see what I see now before it's too late for you too. If only I could tell you, for I couldn't talk now if I tried.
This was all I ever knew. This is what I was always taught, and like a fool I bought into it. Oh, why?! Why did it come to this before I realized what I was, what this word is now telling me? And suddenly the horrible truth hits me. It's because I knew it all along.
This is it. It a few moments I'll be dead, no second chances now. I'm fading away, so I'll leave you with one final confession:
I am a MURDERER.
Review please!