"Loren Thorne!"
"No! I volunteer! I volunteer as Tribute!"
I don't think as the words leave my mouth, nor do I understand their consequences once said. They won't see me again, but without Loren, will not have freedom.
They force me up to say my name, and shake the hand of my adversary. Then I leave to say goodbye, before I am taken to my death.
Disbelief and anger are what encounters me from my family. Understanding and compassion come from my friends.
I say my goodbyes and tears are shed, and then I am on my way. My mentors greet me, and feel my pain, and offer me what they can.
I am Cassie Thorne, the very youngest of my four. The only one who knows the utter cruelty of this world.
None can break me, although many have tried. My mind, my body, my soul; all of them impenetrable.
"I will break you."
"Try your hardest. I won't give in."