Hi! So I decide to write a multichap after mulling about it so long. It's Hunger Games AU but mostly borrowing its world building and not fully followin the plot. But still trying anyway.

The update will be spariodic, I am sorry. It just hard to juggle everything.

Theseus thrusted his spear forward to his opponent's chest with one swift move. He had been taught to make the spear feel like part of his body which was why as the spear went through his opponent's chest he felt like he had stabbed him with his bare hands. His eyes focused on the other's, a boy from district three, James. His blue eyes glared back him with a contempt that Theseus knew he deserves. Even as death slowly claimed James, his eyes kept glaring at Theseus, remaining stubborn to his very last moment to show his disdain toward him.

Theseus pulled his spear back quickly as a large amount of blood spurted upon his skin and clothes. The now cold-dead body of James landed on his feet. Suddenly, he heard steps behind him and immediately ran away from the area while taking James's supplies. It was the Hunger Games. Even though they were friends, there was only one person that could survive. He tightened his grip on the spear as he came to the realisation that James was his first kill. He knew those glaring eyes and the warm sensation of his blood were something that he would never forget.

He would carry that disdain within him forever.

And he knew that he deserved it.

Theseus gasped as he opened his eyes. He was too disoriented at first to making sense of his surroundings but he finally realised where he was when he saw the familiar ceiling above him. It took him another second to realise that he was on the floor. He let out a long sigh.

Another nightmare, Theseus mused.

Theseus pulled himself to sit up and leaning his back on the bedside. He pulled one of his knees and pressed his palm against his eyes; trying to suppress the tears. He knew his nightmare was not just a simple nightmare, but a memory. What he had was just another memory that resurfaced to make him miserable, even in his dreamscape.

His first kill was one of the most painful memories he had. James was one of the decent people he met in the training ground but he realised as they met again in the Hunger Games that they had to kill each other. No matter what. As tributes, as soon as you were in the game you had no friend but yourself.

Theseus would never forget the contempt directed at him by every tribute he killed. He always remembered every single person he had killed in the Hunger Games. Their face, name and district. It was the least he could do since he killed them to survive. So he would fulfil his promise to his little brother, to come back to their little family with the Goldstein sisters. Funnily, even his almost-distant father asked him to come back.

Theseus pulled the pendant he wore and smiled softly at it. It was actually Newt's pendant but when that day Newt insisted that he had to bring it with him. Newt made him promise to take care of it and would be able to leave it unscratched when Theseus was back. His little brother probably thought he was being subtle but Theseus knew the reason he gave the pendant to him was to make sure he would fulfil his promise because Theseus was many things but a promise-breaker.

That pendant helped him in many ways. When Theseus was about to give up, the weight of that pendant would anchor him, reminding him of his promise to Newt.

Even though the price of coming back was high, too high.

Theseus couldn't help but let out a frustrated laugh as he buried his face against his palms. He didn't regret his decision on the reaping day but there were times he wished he never entered that arena. Once you entered, there was no come back from it. The scar left by that even would forever haunt the victors alive. And, there was another price too in his case.

"Theseus?"

Theseus snapped out of his reverie and turned towards the door. It opened a little and there stood his little brother, Newt Scamander. He was in pyjamas, his brown hair was tousled up and he tried to stifle his yawn. Newt always looked younger than he actually did especially after waking up. He didn't even look like he was twenty years old and it always amused Theseus how strangers often thought there was a bigger year gap between them despite him being only four years older than Newt.

Newt slapped his cheeks lightly and blinked his eyes repeatedly to make himself more alert. There was an unmistakable concern in those pair of blue eyes. Theseus blinked away his unshed tears and forced himself to grin.

"Hi, Newt." Theseus said with a fake cheery voice. "What are you doing there?"

"I was awoken by a loud sound coming from your bedroom." Newt answered. He closed the door and approached Theseus. "Are you alright, Thee?"

"I will be fine," Theseus replied determinedly. Newt was not amused by his answer and gave him a pointed look.

"Will, not am," Newt emphasised. He sat beside Theseus, his eyes were still not leaving him. Theseus couldn't look directly at his little brother's eyes because he knew that he would see the worry in there.

He never meant for Newt to be worried about him. Not even in his dream he wished for it. Sometimes Theseus wished it could be like when they were younger where his little brother could say the words their mum used to say.

Worrying means you suffer twice. Stop worry too much, Thee.

Theseus breathed out a shaky laugh. He wished he could believe that and for Newt to keep believing those words. But their world changed seven years ago. The words became meaningless because of how they kept worrying over many things these days

"Thee?" Newt asked. Theseus could hear the concern in his voice and let out a long sigh. He threw him a smile and ruffled his little brother's already messy brown hair.

"I am not fine," Theseus acknowledged sadly. "But I will be. Don't worry about me." He pinched Newt's cheek and grinned. "C'mon give me smile, I hate to see that frown on your face. It doesn't suit you, Newt."

Newt slapped his hands away, not looking amused at all, not even a bit by his actions. "It's not about me. I am worried about you and I will worry about my older brother because I am your brother, Theseus."

Theseus bit his lips; trying to hold the emotions that threatened to overwhelm him. "Thank you, Newt."

Newt didn't say anything but his eyes remained steady on him with a concern that kept clouding it. Theseus needed something to hold right there, without second-guessing himself, he pulled Newt into his arms, holding him with so so much meaning it was as if his life depended on it. He almost forgot that Newt was never fond being hugged but then he remembered. He was about to pull himself back when he felt Newt pat his back reassuringly telling him it was fine. So he let himself bury his face on Newt's shoulder, just for a moment before he had to what he supposed to be, an older brother. He didn't cry either despite it was what he wanted to do.

"It has been seven years." Newt said suddenly. "I am no longer a child you have to protect all the time." Theseus could feel Newt grip the fabric of his pyjamas tightly. "I became stronger. You can rely on me and you can tell me anything, Thee."

Theseus pulled away and ruffled Newt's hair. He smiled softly at Newt and replied. "It's not your job to do that. I am your older brother, not the other way around. I am going to be fine, really. Just go back to bed. Don't leave Tina alone. Her nightmares, despite already getting better than before, could still come back without being asked."

Newt looked like he wanted to say something but quickly closed his mouth. He sighed. "Alright, Thee. But at least let me make you a hot chocolate and then please try to get some sleep again." He looked reluctant before adding. "You need your sleep because the banquet and I know you never tell me much about the later event but….." Newt didn't finish his sentence. Theseus knew what Newt meant and he didn't like the guilt he saw in his little brother's eyes.

Theseus nudged Newt's shoulder and gave him a smile. "Fine, Newt. No sugar alright."

Newt gave back a little smile and nod. He immediately rushed outside, in a hurry to make the hot cocoa. Theseus let out a breath that he had been holding as he climbed back to his bed. If he were being honest he almost forgot about the banquet and what would follow after that. His mind was probably trying to forget it but the feast was one of the prices for him surviving the Hunger Games.

He had to put on a show again. As he always did, to what people, especially the Capitol's citizen expected from him. A fabricated image of himself that he made for the Hunger Games and what they kept expected to see after he became the victor. The dark, brooding, charming, and smooth-talker, Theseus Scamander.

He couldn't let his mask fall. For the sake of everyone he loved.

A few minutes later, Newt came in, bringing back the promised hot cocoa. "Thanks, Newt."

"You didn't have to wait for me to finish it," Theseus said. "I will finish it soon."

"Promise me you will try to sleep?" Newt asked, concern spreading in his features.

Theseus knew that it was his little brothers way to make sure he would sleep. He hated breaking promises after all.

"Newt-"

"Please Thee."

Theseus studied Newt's expression and he understood that Newt determined to make sure he would rest. He relented. "Alright, I promise."

Newt let out a relieved sigh. "Thanks, Thee."

"Sure, Newt." Theseus gestured his chin toward the door. "Now, hush you. Time for you to come back to your bed and Tina."

Newt's face flushed red which make Theseus snicker quietly. Newt and Tina, the older Goldstein, had been dating for a while but Newt and Tina would always make him amused by how easy they blushed upon his teasing about their dating life.

"Anyway," Newt said as he cleared his throat. "Please try to sleep after you finished the hot cocoa, Thee."

"I will," Theseus replied. He smiled a bit before he hushed him again. "Tina is probably waiting for you on the bed, go Newt." he winked teasingly.

Newt shook his head in disbelief but nonetheless there was a smile on his face. "Alright. Night, Thee."

"Night, Newt." He waved slightly as he watched his little brother disappear from his sight. He drank his hot cocoa in one gulp which was a foolish move because he could feel his throat burn irritatingly but he couldn't care less. He placed the empty mug on the nightstand and then headed to the bathroom to brush his teeth, wash his face and then try to sleep. He promised to try again after all.

As he finished brushing his teeth and washing his face, he stared at the mirror, at his reflection. There was an obvious dark circle under his eyes as he noticed how haggard he looked. Overall, he looked horrible. He didn't want even think what Vinda would have said if he had not looked decent in the banquet. She would be so fussy and he could imagine Percival trying to calm her down meanwhile Seraphina pulled him quietly with her make up team to make him look nice.

He let out a soft chuckle, frustrated with everything that the Capitol and its citizens stand for. And of course, the president. He wanted to break free from his grip but the question was how. He couldn't let him touch any of his family. Not again. He gripped the sink tight enough to turn his knuckles white.

Theseus went back to the bed with a mixed feeling of determination, worry, sadness and guilt. It was almost dawn when sleep finally claimed him again, it was restless, but better than spending the night awake, as he usually does.

It had been a long time since he had a good-night's sleep and he knew he probably won't ever get to get it it ever again.

It was a smell of toasts and eggs that awoke Theseus from his restless sleep. He could almost hear the chirped voice of the younger Goldstein, Queenie down there, telling Newt and Tina to come down to the dining room to had their breakfast. He waited for a bit until he heard the sounds of Queenie's steps coming nearer his bedroom, the sound of her heels getting louder as they reached the door.

Just as he was about to sit up, the door of his bedroom opened. There was Queenie Goldstein, the younger Goldstein, with her bright smile and positive energy. She was already ready in her white blouse and dark circle skirt. With her golden hair already styled. "Good Morning!" she greeted cheerfully. Time to have breakfast, Thes!"

"Morning," He replied. "And yes, I know, Queenie. I can smell the toast and egg." In an instant, he sat up and swung his legs out of bed. "I will wash my face and brush my teeth. You can go back, I will head up later."

Queenie narrowed her eyes at him in a way that usually implied he was in trouble. "No, Thes. You usually take a long time even if no one waited here. Go! I will wait here."

"Alright, alright Queenie." Theseus sighed, immediately going to the bathroom. He didn't take much time in there since Queenie was waiting and he knew he couldn't afford to be slow today with the banquet looming tonight.

He went back to Queenie who folded her hands, waiting for him. She looked a bit surprised as he gave her a proud smile. He put his hands on her shoulders, turned her toward the door and pushed her along to outside as he closed it. "I am finished now. Let's go to the dining room, Queenie."

Queenie stared at him and he returned it with a big smile on his face. She shook her head fondly as a smile appeared again on her face. "Sure. And you better eat the breakfast, Thes." she added, squinting her eyes at him dangerously before grinning at him.

"As you wish, little queen." He said as he patted her shoulder lightly.

In the dining room, sat his little brother and the older Goldstein, waiting for them to coming down. Newt smiled at them. "Good morning, Thee. Thanks for waking him up, Queenie."

"Morning, Newt." Theseus replied. And at the same time, Queenie also replied.

"No problem, Newt."

They said it at the same time which make Tina, the older Goldstein, chuckle. She had a neat, short brown hair in contrast to her sister's and a scar crossed along her right eye. Her left eye looked up at them in amusement. "So Theseus finally decided to grace us with his presence. You take your sweet time, don't you Thes?"

"I do not," Theseus rolled his eyes, pretend to be annoyed. "And Queenie can attest to it, tell them kiddo." He told the younger sister as he gestured his hands toward Tina.

"For once, he was being fast Teenie. Even I was surprised." Queenie added in his defense as she sat on the empty seat beside him.

"See? I was fast!" He exclaimed triumphantly.

"Sure sure, drama queen." Tina grinned, having a blast teasing him. "Eat your toast and stop being a drama queen."

"Thanks for nothing, Porpentina." Theseus replied as he sat down to his seat. By the mention of her full name, Tina narrowed her eyes at him. He turned to Newt. "Where is the jam?" Theseus asked, casually ignoring Tina's glare as Newt handed him the jam, biting his lips; probably trying not to laugh.

"Stop calling me Porpentina, Theseus Apollo Fortis Scamander." Tina glared.

"Why shouldn't I, Porpentina Esther Goldstein?" Theseus shot back, glaring at her but with a teasing smile.

Theseus maintained the eye contact between them since Tina insisted on glaring at him. Tina finally gave up and buried her face on Newt's shoulder. She sighed. "Damn you, Scamander." She muttered which earned laughs from all three of them.

"We could play games with our long names and I will still win because I actually love my full name." Theseus admitted.

"It's not that I hate my name but," Tina shrugged. "I mean, why Porpentina? It basically means Porcupine. It just, well compared with the people in our district with their glamour names," She grimaced. "Tina sounds so much better."

"But I love the name Porpentina, Tina" Newt interjected. He smiled sweetly at his girlfriend. "It suits you, Tina."

"Excuse you, Mr. Scamander. What did you say?" Tina asked, feigning offence but a teasing tone clear on her voice.

Newt chuckles as he slipped a few strands of hair behind her ear. "Just like a porcupine. You are sharp from the outside, people will think you are dangerous but really, Tina." Newt pecked her scarred left eye and gave her one big grin. "You are one of the sweetest and kindest people I ever meet."

Tina was blushing by Newt's words. Her whole face turned red as she pressed her blushing cheek with her backhand; trying to hide them from sight. Theseus couldn't stop himself from grinning meanwhile Queenie was giggling beside him. His little brother always had his natural way to say sweet things but somehow that side of him only showed when it was Tina he was talking about.

It always made his heart warm to see how happy the both of them were. Tina managed to pull Newt from his own world to share it with people while Newt managed to ground Tina's fire, or Thunder according to the Capitol, so it won't hurt her or anyone else. They were like a polar opposite of each other that attracted to each other. And anyone with a functional pair of eyes could tell that they belonged together.

"Stop grinning and giggling both of you!" Tina exclaimed, waving a hand at them to halt their actions, her cheeks were still red out of embarrassment.

"Aww Teenie," Queenie squealed. "But that was so sweet. Don't be embarrassed!"

"Little Queen is right," Theseus agreed, his grin still intact on his face. "It was so sweet, Newt."

"I am just saying the truth," Newt shrugged. Tina bumped her shoulder with his lightly and Newt just displayed another grin on his face.

"Sometimes I really can't believe you, Newt." Tina said while fanning herself with her hands, trying to wash away her embarrassment. "But I know what you mean. Thanks, Newt." She grinned lovingly at him.

"You're welcome, Tina." Newt grinned back.

The atmosphere in the breakfast was getting lighter after that. Queenie's bubbly personality always made their daily breakfast feel full of happiness and contentment in each other's company, sometimes just talking about nothing and everything. They exchanged laughter and the sunshine came through the dining room's window making the room feel warm. Sometimes Theseus wished the time would stop right there, but he knew that would be impossible.

Queenie suddenly stopped and glanced at himself and Tina back and forth. Confused, Theseus asked. "What is it, Queenie?"

"When will you two go to the Capitol?" Queenie asked, almost timidly.

Tina didn't answer. Instead she opted to munch her toast loudly, obviously annoyed by the fact they had to go to the Capitol meanwhile Newt looked downcast by the mention of it. Theseus held back his sigh, he didn't want to dampen Queenie's mood. He ruffled her hair in attempt to assure her and put his best grin on his face. "We will go by afternoon, with the luck of being closest district, we are not in hurry."

"I see," Queenie replied. She puckered her lips and muttered. "It would be lonely without you and Teenie. I will miss you two. Even though I know it will only be until tomorrow."

"I will miss you too, little queen." Theseus grinned. "It's fine. We will back here tomorrow and you won't even notice we were gone. And Newt is also here with you, so you won't be alone, Queenie."

"I know. I love spending time with Newt, and he taught me a lot of things." Queenie replied. "He knows so much about medicine for both humans and animals! I really do love to learn with him!" She exclaimed, "But when any of you two leave, I miss you guys already. Even Newt couldn't always be with me to keep me company. He sometimes brings me with him when he visits most of his patients but not always." She tried to shrug it off but Theseus could see she was actually feeling rather down. Theseus was about to say something when suddenly she turned to him, eyes were full of concern. "Also... It's the Capitol. Teenie is usually angry or annoyed but Thes, you just look tired…. worn off even."

In the corner of his eyes, Theseus could see both Tina and Newt tense. Tina knew the reason why he usually tired after went to the Capitol. Being fellow victors, he ended up telling her the truth after she won the 73th Hunger Games last year. Her first reaction was angry. After all, Tina never really bought his reputation that popular in the Capitol (and well-known in Panem) and so was Newt. He never wanted to tell Newt but his little brother could be sneaky if he wanted to be after all. Newt confronted him four years after 67th Hunger Games where he came through as the winner and when he finally came clear with Newt, he felt awful seeing Newt's breakdown. He didn't want to see any of his family cry like that again.

Tina looked like she would bolt out any second if Newt didn't hold her hands, even though Newt himself bit his own lips; trying to hold down his own emotions. They won't say anything because it was an agreement between them and they did not want to tell Queenie, not yet anyway. Between all four of them, Queenie was still the only one who really hasn't been touched by the dark side of the Capitol. They wanted to it to remain like that as long as possible.

So, instead of showing his own conflicted feeling, Theseus grinned which caught Queenie by surprise. "Don't worry so much, little queen. I was tired because you know about the party and all. It's tiresome, both physically and mentally." He groaned. Theseus had told her half of the truth and ruffled her hair again to avoid her from getting suspicious. "Erase that frown and give me a smile, Queenie. Your smile fits you more." Queenie looked hesitant, like she was not sure but as he kept smiling, she gave out a sigh, giving in.

"If you say so, Thes." She smiled back.

"That's more like it, little queen!" He exclaimed, raising his hands in the air joyfully.

They went back to talking about what they would do sans Tina and him since it was obvious where they would go to today.

"Queenie and I will visit some patients today. Also," Newt explained to the older siblings as he turned to Queenie. "She is a really quick learner, and she's getting close to most of my patients, both humans and animals." He gives her a positive thumbs up at Queenie who responded with a reciprocating thumbs up as well. "Her empathic nature really help. It's easy for her to help because she doesn't want them to be hurt much longer. Nice work, Queenie."

Queenie grinned proudly. Tina was happy to hear that not only did she have a big smile on her face but approached her to give her a hug from behind. "I am so proud of you, Queenie."

Queenie couldn't help but suppress her laughter. She was brimming in happiness. "Thank you, Teenie!"

Theseus grinned at the sisters and turned to Newt to give him a thumb up and a wink. "Nice job, teacher."

Newt's face turned red out of embarrassment and shook his head. "Queenie was already good. I was just helping her out a little bit."

"Now that," Queenie pointed her finger on him. "is playing down your own skill, Newt! You are a good teacher and a very good doctor! Accept the credit that is due. You deserve it."

"Yes, Newt." Tina agreed, smiling at him. "Accept the praise because you deserve it."

"As they said, you deserve it." Theseus repeated once more with pride, extending his hand to ruffle Newt's hair

Newt was overwhelmed. He didn't even look up at them as he scratched his cheek. There was a sheepish smile on his face. When he finally looked up, he threw them a grateful smile and whispered. "Thank you."

Tina released her sister from her arm and approached her boyfriend, kissing him lightly. Laughter erupted from the happy family, and once more took them inside their own world without a care for the reality of what was going to come.. Queenie giggled once again beside him as he found himself smiling at the scene. Somehow seeing the family he protects and loves most sounded and looked so happy made him relieved. Just this kind of little moment always made it worth it. It was worth everything.

The warmth of the moment was interrupted by the loud ringing of the doorbell. Even without checking, Theseus already knew who was behind the door. Tina's good mood immediately turned sour once again. Queenie let out a long sigh. Newt frowned disapprovingly towards the direction of the door.

Theseus approached the door and pulled it open. There she stood, Vinda Rosier, the district one advisor wearing her eccentric fashion, instead the capitol's usual colourful style, Vinda always prefered a darker colour. Her eyes were glinting as she examined him. She narrowed her eyes and spoke up with her smooth accent. "Did you even sleep yesterday? Remember Theseus, you have a banquet today. You can't just look like death just warmed you over!" The woman scolded. Her eyes then moved her focus to behind his shoulder, to the where the dining room was. "Also, I hope Porpentina has learned good manners for once. We couldn't have her crashing the banquet with her attitude."

"Good morning to you too, Vinda." He sighed, rolling his eyes. "Yes, I have slept and don't worry I always manage to put on a show. You know it already." Vinda nodded curtly, agreeing with his words. "Also, please don't call Tina, Porpentina. She hates it. It will only dampen her mood." he added, turning amusedly to watch Tina's offended glare at the woman.

Vinda didn't answer at first but then a dangerous smile stretched across her face as she spoke up, an almost malicious grin creeping on her face. "Maybe if she could have a good manners for once, I would stop calling her with her full name."

"Vin-"

Vinda raised her index finger, her smile intact on her face. She stopped him from talking any more, words regarding it. "Theseus Scamander, prepare what do you need to bring to the capitol. Now, I need to talk to Porpentina and ensure that she will behave for the rest of the banquet."

"What about Seraphina?" He tried to stall her, to give Tina time to ready herself for Vinda's lecture. "She usually brings her makeup teams here."

"She decided to prepare all district one victors in the Capitol to make sure all the makeup will stay intact. And before you can ask about Percival," Vinda gave him a pointed look. "He is already at the Capitol since yesterday to visit Seraphina. Stop trying to stall me, I know what are you doing, Theseus. Now if you excuse me."

Vinda forced her way past him and walked toward the dinner table where Queenie, Tina and Newt sat tensely. He gave out a long sigh. The morning was almost perfect. Almost.

When he heard a loud hiss from Tina, he knew he had to intervene before it became something too dangerous. While he himself had quite a temper, Tina could be even worse especially around Vinda. Queenie and Newt won't be able to stop them from fighting.

Theseus closed the door that Vinda had left open and walked toward the dining room.

So much for wishing a happy morning before he and Tina had to go to the Capitol.

Leta Lestrange walked towards the cliff near the shore. The wind was gushing past her quite hard making the young woman tighten the coat closer to her chest. It was quite cold today but she had to go there anyway because, for the past five years, she had been visiting this particular setting every morning except for when there were special occasions in which she could not go. She hid the flowers within her arms to prevent it from being blown away by the wind. It was a significant flower after all.

When Leta finally reached the top of the cliff, her eyes landed on the tombstone that stood silently on there. She immediately kneeled down in front of the tombstone, tracing the name that engraved on it.

Corvus Lestrange Jr.

Even as the years passed on, she had never found peace after her little brother's death. The loss of Corvus would always be a sore spot for her because he wasn't supposed to die. It was not his fault. Leta had promised herself she would send him home and care for him but he was killed right in front of her eyes. Corvus was her little brother and yet instead of being the one in need of protection, he chose to protect her and lose his own life in the process. A young boy, who had died when he had so much to look forward to in the future.

If she were stronger, she could have prevented that monster from killing her little brother. Leta couldn't forget the glimmer of happiness on Corvus's killer, a boy from district 2, Aurelius. She couldn't stop the snarl that had come out of her. She should expect it from the Careers; they were tributes from District 1 and District 2 and had been trained to survive in the Hunger Games ever since they were young.

It wasn't about surviving for them. No one in their right mind would want to volunteer for the Hunger Games, but these Careers were different. They had joined for glory and fame. They enjoyed to kill and hunt people. She would never understand their state of mind and that was why she planned to keep avoiding those Careers for the rest of her life. Because who knows what she would have done if she stayed in the same room as them for a while.

She could kill them.

Leta immediately shook her head slightly, trying to wash away all the negative feelings filling her up. Visiting Corvus's grave was supposed to be a positive part of her daily activities, not a negative part. So she forced a smile and put the flower she had been holding down in front of the tombstone.

"Morning, Corvus." Leta whispered gently. "It will be your birthday soon. I wish we could celebrate your birthday together like we used to do." She chuckled sadly and looked down at the flowers,smiling fondly. "I brought your favourite flower, statice."

Since Corvus was young, he was always fascinated by flowers and their meaning. He would quote the meaning for each flower they found. She remembered the time she asked the meaning of the flower he always had in-between book pages. It was a dried flower named statice. He always said it was his favourite flower but never once explained why. Out of curiosity, before the Hunger Games, she had mustered up the courage and asked him.

"Why do you love statice so much?"

Corvus didn't say anything at first but then a smile slowly stretched on his face. He pulled one of his dried statice and showed it to her. "You see Leta, the statice is quite a unique flower. It could survive even when the soil is poor and there is a drought. They would still bloom beautifully despite all the odds against them. They are like fighters. An Everlasting Flower." He grinned up at her. "Besides that, they have another nickname that fit them. Desert-sea lavender."

"Why desert-sea lavender?" Leta arched one of her eyebrows, curious.

"They are quite salt tolerant and that is why I can find a lot of them growing in District 4. They bloomed in salt marshes. It's amazing, isn't it?" Corvus chuckled. He played around with the dried statice. "Statices have several meanings but my favourites would be their memories and remembrance."

Why those two particularly?"

"Because in my memories, I have you and my mother who are very important to me. I love remembering every second of the time we spend together." Corvus smiled. "And even though the odds are against us, if we were together, it would be fine! We will be fine, Leta! Just like them!" He exclaimed passionately, as he showed the dried statice in front of her face.

Leta didn't have the heart to say anything. She could see that Corvus truly believed in his own words. Despite it being clear there would be only one winner and them, as siblings, eventually had to choose. She had already decided a long time ago that she would make sure he would be the one who could go home but her little brother didn't need to know this. She opted to smile at him instead. A loving smile, forced but nonetheless heartfelt. "Yes, Corvus. We will be fine."

Leta wished it was him who had survived.

The tips of her fingers touched the earring she wore on her left ear. It was a pair with the one Corvus had. The significant piece of jewelry was shaped in the form of a raven symbol, their family symbol. Almost ironic considering what a mess her family was and yet its symbol was a raven. Ravens always looked out for their family and made sure to warn theirs owners every time there was potential danger heading their way. Just how she and Corvus were.

But her family was in a whole different level. The opposite of what anyone would expect, definitely not in that category. They loved to destroy people around them, even those of their own blood. All for their own happiness and greed. It was disgusting. Meanwhile, her little brother was so different from them all.

Leta remembered Corvus's last words.

I am so sorry, Leta. I can't look out for you anymore, please survive for my part too.

Leta was the older sister. She supposed to be the one to protect him, not the other way around. There was not even a day she did not regret it. She wiped out the tears that threatened to spill from her eyes. Crying won't change anything, she knew that more than anyone. She was about to say goodbye when a familiar voice popped up from behind her.

"What are you doing here?"

Leta turned her head. There he was, the patriarch of the Lestrange family, Corvus Lestrange Sr. His dark eyes held contempts against her. Judgement. She couldn't care less though. It was not like she tried to gain his approval of her existence anymore. She had already grown past that.

She stood up and dusted away the specks of dirt from her pants. Leta shot him a polite, sincere smile. "Hello, Mr. Lestrange. It's quite a surprise to meet you here."

"That is something I should be asking you." He responded, eyeing her suspiciously. "What are you doing here? In front of my son's tombstone."

"I always come here to visit him in the morning, Mr. Lestrange." She answered, trying her best to stay polite and concealing her anger and sadness from letting out. "Also, your son is my little brother. I can visit-"

"My son's killer does not have any right to visit him!" He fumed.

He glared at her which she returned back with the same intensity. She had to grit her teeth in order to calm herself down. She knew there was no point in retaliating. He was purposely trying to make her angry and she wouldn't fall for it. Not anymore.

Leta broke their glaring contest and walked past him. She didn't want to be in his presence any longer. He was never a father to her and he never acknowledged her as his daughter. Corvus was their only connection and now their relationship no more than a stranger linking them with blood ties but meaning nothing. She was already a far distance away but enough to hear him shout once more.

"Don't come to my son's resting place ever again, Killer!" He spat.

"I will come whenever I want to visit my little brother, Father." Leta shot back hotly.

Leta didn't even bother turning back and gave him a glare. He wasn't worth it. She walked, her steps speeding up faster and faster until she finally ended up running without caring about the places surrounding her. She was angry, very angry. And also sad. Because she knew that despite the way she acted towards him or herself, his words were what she believed in all this time. It was because of her that he was in the game. In the end, she, Leta Lestrange was the true killer.

She would never forgive herself for not stopping him from entered the game.

Leta didn't know where her legs brought her until she saw the gate to the Victor's Village. And her eyes caught a familiar figure, an advisor for District 4, Torquil Travers. She gave out a long, ragged sigh, remembering there was a banquet in the Capitol and as one of the victors she had to attend it.

Travers saw her and his expression was not in the least amused by the state she was in currently. "Where were you, Leta? We need everyone to be ready soon and there's only you left. Prepare what you need and clean yourself."

Leta rolled her eyes and walked passed him without saying anything. She could feel Travers glaring at her but she could care less. She had only wanted to visit her little brother before going to the Capitol and attend the cursed banquet. Giving her a lighter mood before had to deal with the Capitol, its citizens and the fellow victors. But of course not, the world was never that kind to her.

So much for a little happiness before she had to go to the Capitol.

"Porpentina," Vinda warned, her eyes narrowed on Tina. "You better behave properly. If not for yourself, then do it for the next tributes in the Hunger Games."

Tina rolled her eyes. "Behave." She mocked. "We have a different definition of it, Rosier."

"Do not mock me, Porpentina." Vinda smiled dangerously. "You know that whether you like it or not, you will behave. President Grindelwald won't be amused when he sees one of the victors behaving inappropriately. Who knows what could happen, right?"

Tina flinched at that. She was about to retaliate when Newt touched her shoulder and shook his head slightly, knowing it was not worth it. Behind them, Theseus sighed. "Vinda, Tina, please stop." he turned to Vinda, and gave her a pointed look. "Vinda, you know she will behave and stick with me today. Tina will be fine." Vinda snorted at his words but nodded regardless.

"I suppose I can trust you with that, Theseus." Vinda said, giving Tina a glare before turning on her heels and entered the train's door frame before she looking over her shoulder, eyes on Theseus. "Thank you for keeping her on check. We all know it will be hard for everyone if she keeps acting like a child. With that temper, she's really fitting to her nickname, Thunderbird."

Theseus raised his hand up in front of Tina before she could say anything. "Vinda, stop trying to rile Tina. You're being unnecessarily mean."

Vinda scoffed. "She always wears her heart too close to the surface. That's why it's fun to get her riled up because she'll bite the bait, as always." Vinda chuckles, amused by Tina's glare and Theseus's words and attempt to calm them down.

"Vinda," Theseus warned, unamused by her attitude. It would only aggravate Tina more and he didn't want that.

Vinda shrugged. "Fine, I will stop teasing. I still have to check with other victors anyways." She gave Theseus a pointed look. "Don't bid goodbye for too long, we have a tight schedule today, Theseus, Porpentina." She disappears from their sight, chuckling as she did so. Tina gritted her teeth, trying to suppress her anger towards the advisor.

"Tina, Tina," Newt murmured softly as he took her hand. "You're going to leave soon. Let's focus on more important things, alright?" He smiled gently at her.

"That's right, Teenie!" Queenie added. "I want to see your smile before you leave. So wipe that glars and angry expression off your face. Give us a smile!"

Tina stared at them, shook her head fondly and breathed a smile a bit forcibly. "Alright, I am smiled now. Happy?"

"Absolutely, Tina!" Newt said, giving her thumbs up.

"Of course, Teenie!" Queenie gave her double thumbs up.

Theseus shook his head, amused at them. He glanced at one of the train's window, his eyes caught Vinda's. She gestured for them to get inside already. Theseus nodded and sighed.

"What with the long sigh, Thee?" Newt asked curiously.

"Vinda's already telling us to go inside, and Tina please," Theseus added after he saw Tina roll her eyes at the mention of the advisors name. "I know you don't like her and believe me, nor do I! But please don't let her get under your skin and respond rashly. The more you act like that, the more she would gain to prove her point. Let's prove her wrong, alright?"

Tina clenched her jaw, annoyed, but nodded nonetheless. Theseus let out a long sigh. "It's just for a night, Tina. We'll back tomorrow and you won't have to bear being around her any longer after that."

"Such a blessing." Tina muttered and the sighed. "I don't mean to be a handful. I am sorry."

"It's fine, Tina." Theseus replied, he gave her reassuring pat on the back. Without warning, Theseus pulled Tina, Queenie and Newt into his arms with one swift move. There were several yelps and he chuckled at that.

"Tina and I will be back tomorrow. Don't worry, alright?" He said to Newt and Queenie. They both nodded and he released them from his arms.

Queenie embraced her older sister tightly. There were no words exchanged but the message was clear. She would miss her older sister and she wanted her to be careful. Tina gave her reassuring pat on her back. They pulled back and exchanged smiles. Tina turned towards her boyfriend who showed her a sad expression on his face.

"We will back tomorrow." Tina smiled encouragingly. "Don't give me that sad face, Newt."

"What can I say?" Newt shrugged weakly. "I will always miss you even when you are not here, Tina." He smiled sadly.

"You are such a sap, Newt." Tina said, rolling her eyes fondly before pulling him into a hug, giving themselves a private moment. It only lasted for a little while, but it was enough for them. He kissed her briefly and caressed her cheeks adoringly.

"Please be alright out there, Tina." He whispered.

"You too, Newt." She whispered back.

Theseus noticed Vinda who was getting impatient in the window. He turned to them. "Alright. It's time for us to go." He said as he pulling Tina over to the train. He waved at them. "See you both later, Newt, little queen!"

"See you later, Thes!" Queenie responded, waving at them both excitedly. Newt didn't say anything and instead opt to waved back. The trains doors closed immediately left the platform. Newt watched the train that carried his girlfriend and older brother away, slowly shrink into the distance. He unconsciously fisted his knuckles tightly and frowned.

Queenie studied his expression, worried. "Newt?"

Newt woke up from of his reverie and shook his head lightly. He turned to Queenie and smile slightly. "Let's go, Queenie. We have to check on Mrs. Abbott for her monthly checkup first."

Queenie was confused but nodded in return. She followed Newt as they walked away from the platform.

Meanwhile, few hours ago in the District 4, Leta followed Travers as they walked towards the train that was waiting for them. Her right hand was pulling her suitcase as she absent-mindedly listening to what Travers was saying about the schedule they had to go through for today. She was still trying to get rid the feelings after her encounter with her estranged father. It was unexpected and it still had her reeling.

"Leta, are you listening to me?"

Leta snapped out of her reverie. Travers gave her an impatient look. She shrugged. "I am not, but what will be different from the usual banquet anyway? It'll all be fine, Travers."

Travers gaver her an unamused expression and turned his back to her. "If you say so, Leta. I still have to check on others. I trust you know where your compartment is located." Without expecting an answer, he immediately disappears from her sight, leaving her alone.

Leta sighed as she entered the train. There was only one person she knew who would be on the same train as her, Yusuf Kama, her mentor. But right now she didn't want to deal with his questions. So she decided to go to her compartment quietly and hole up there until they arrived at the Capitol.

Leta closed her eyes as soon as she felt the train start moving with a jolt, trying to get some semblance of peace before she had to deal with reality once more.

That day, a gush wind started to blow again as there were several different paths that taken by different people. The wind that would shake the current conditions of each contributes' life. None of them knew that fate would once again play a cruel joke as their path would eventually cross each other's to make a change in their life.

The questions were,

What kind of change?

Would it be worth it?

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P.S I hope you enjoy it. And yes this is actually Theta fic. Let's ride the slow burn.