Chapter Two, The Fourth Quarter Quell – Hunger Games.

District Four had never felt so cramped. Never. It was hot and sweaty as everyone piled into their allocated year groups. My 17 year old one felt more crowded than usual as if they had all duplicated, then duplicated again. I knew I was being silly and I knew it was brought on by nerves. I had lost sight of Styler a while back which didn't help my nerves I wanted to be able to make eye contact with her green eyes so that she knew she would be ok. My first year I think was the hardest for me. But I couldn't see her in the twelve year olds group; well it's not easy they all seem to have the same brunette hair as her.

I sighed swiping my untamed hair out of my face and zoning into what our escort was actually saying.

'So let us get started then' She pranced over to the girl's bowl, wearing a purple jumpsuit that seemed to catch the light and shine it in your eyes no matter where you looked. The only part of her that didn't look fake was her black glossy afro. Well let's not get started about the zebra stripes on her cheek. God she looked like a freak. I shuddered inside and out.

'Risarka Shipway' she announced supporting a broad and welcoming smile.

There was commotion in the 15 year old section as a tall elegant looking girl made her way out. Her jet black hair was up in a tight bun and her cool blue eyes narrowed at everyone who looked her way. As she caught my eyes I averted my gaze.

'No volunteers...' Our escort who I now remembered was called Rita said sounding incredibly disappointed, there was a couple of coughs and shuffling.

Rita took this as a no.

'Oh OK, Well Risarka-'

'Risa!' Risarka snapped but kept her eyes on the ground.

'OK... Risa as you know there has been a new rule-'

'Rosko Shipway' she spluttered not looking up. Her hands were rubbing together awkwardly. I could tell she was scared. No not scared frightened, terrified... well I would be too.

The 14 year olds parted to let out a young boy I recognised, I think he had been to our house before maybe one of Keaton's friends. Everyone seemed to hush as he stepped onto the stage not quite meeting his sister's height but still tall for his age he had the same accusing blue eyes but his hair was a sandy blond.

'Well let's have a big applause for our first two tributes!' Rita beamed at the crowd only a couple dared to clap. Then silence. I could tell Rita wasn't enjoying it this year, everyone was too... serious it made her feel intimidated- and I liked it.

'Now for the boys' she announced cracking open another of her million dollar smiles. I felt my body tense this is it, the moment of truth.

She rummaged around in the bowl for what seemed like hours until she grabbed one with her mocha coloured hands. My nerves grew and grew until she opened the paper.

'Keaton Shroud' she said her voice flat. No emotion as always. Yes it wasn't me thank god! Then it hit me hard right on the chest. I struggled to breath. No it wasn't me, it was my brother. Why, just why? Then it hit me again it was me as well. I was sure as hell he wouldn't pick Styler.

Volunteer for goodness sakes. Someone volunteer. Normally people would be dying to get into the games to get the fame of winning... but not this time. Once family was involved people didn't seem so desperate.

Keaton stood on the stage in his crumpled shirt and baggy brown trousers. His eyes bore into mine as he tried to say sorry, but he had no choice. I could faintly hear my mother shrieking over the beating of my own heart.

'So Keaton, you're a looker aren't you' She laughed but no one laughed with her. She coughed awkwardly. Keaton just glared at her. Hating her, blaming her.

'Keaton, my love, take your pick' she spread her arms out at the audience. Her capitol accent ringing round the courtyard. Then silence.

Keaton's head slowly lifted as he stared at me his eyes full of tears, I'm sorry he mouthed.

'Ajax Shroud' he croaked then the tears spilled down his face. In that moment I knew my life was over.

Ooohh emotional, sorry this one was quite short I wanted to do the two Reapings separately so they you know sink in... So what do you guys think, placing a couple of words in that box below would be great. Thanks :D