Chapter 1:

Pyrite Cherno, 18, District 1

Four Months Before The Reaping

"Hey Pirate!"

Pyrite looks up from lacing up their boot at the sound of their familiar nickname, grinning as their friend approaches them. A few girls nearby in the locker room look around confused at the name before Pyrite waves at their friend. "What's up, Jo?"

The girls stare at Pyrite as they finish lacing up their shoes. Let them stare all they want, it won't bother them at all. In fact, it's just making them happy at the reason for their stares. "Are you ready yet or are you going to take another hour to get ready?" Joy asks as she sits down on the bench next to Pyrite, grinning at them. "Because the party started a half hour ago and you're the guest of honor."

Pyrite laughs loudly at this as they start tossing clothes into their locker, drawing more attention over to them. "Well, I think they'll live when they realize that I was training. Thetis has stepped my training up now that they've chosen me to be the volunteer."

"Yes," Joy says dramatically as she drops down, motioning wildly with her arms. "Ladies, gentlemen, and all genders in-between," Joy loudly calls out, her voice echoing in the locker room. "Pirate – I mean, Pyrite," Joy corrects with a wink at Pyrite, making them start laughing loudly at Joy's display, "Pyrite Cherno, our one and only volunteer for District One this year!"

Pyrite jumps up and gives a couple low bows as Joy cheers and claps, just like they would at the end of a performance. "Thank you, thank you," they call out, pretending to wave at the girls giving them even more bizarre looks. Pyrite falls into a fit of laughter, still in an amazing mood from finding out they are going to be the volunteer. They lean against the lockers as Joy stands up and smiles at their friend. "Oh Jo, I'm still a little in disbelief! And don't pinch me, I know I'm not dreaming!" They say quickly as Joy gets ready to pinch them. Joy simply laughs at this before picking up Pyrite's discarded bag and tossing it to them. "Okay, you don't have to tell me twice to get going."

Pyrite quickly throws the rest of their training stuff in their locker before slamming it shut. They turn to Joy, big grin on their face as they hold out their arm. "Let's go celebrate me being awesome!"

Joy takes their arm, both of them laughing loudly as they exit the locker room, earning some more stares from other people making their way to the same place they're off to. "Wow Pirate you get picked as the volunteer and suddenly you're all full of yourself!"

"You're the one who encouraged me!" Pyrite says through laughter as they exit the training academy. They let out a wistful sigh and push back their platinum blond hair as they start the short walk over to Armani's house. Well, house is a nice way of putting it. Mansion is probably better. Pyrite's still a little surprised that Armani put together this party for Pyrite since she was one of the top five choices for volunteer. But Pyrite is pretty sure Armani had this party planned for when she was picked and just didn't want it to go to waste.

"Oh look who it is, Jo and Pirate," Hera falls into step next to Pyrite, grin on his face. "You two took so long that I'm going to miss out on all of the cute guys from training by time we get there. You know I don't get to see them often," he jokes with them before grabbing on to Pyrite's other arm. Hera looks at Pyrite's outfit before nodding his head approvingly. "I'm glad I'm not going after the girls tonight because you're obviously going to steal them all."

Pyrite flushes a little at this comment, hoping that some of the girls might be interested in them tonight. They hadn't been too sure about the white button up tucked into their leather pants but they suppose it's too late to change now as they can already hear the sounds of the party. "Is the outfit too much?"

"No my dear, you look fabulous," Hera dramatically says before fanning himself at Pyrite's appearance. "But seriously, who are you trying to impress? You've already won over the victors. You don't need to impress any of these nobodies."

"You know exactly who they're trying to impress," Joy teases, making Pyrite's face start to flush a little as the music gets louder and Armani's house comes into view. A few people are out on the front lawn and their voices carry in the wind.

"Oh shut up," Pyrite tries to get Joy to stop but their friend looks way too excited about it.

"Oh Iolite," Hera puts a hand up to his forehead and pretends to swoon. "You looked so hot while training in those tight pants."

"Don't forget the revealing tank top," Joy adds in and they both laugh as Pyrite starts to pout.

"I hate you two," they jokingly say to them and shake their head. "I doubt she wants anything to do with me. She was the second choice. You can't tell me that she won't be bitter at me for taking her spot in the games."

"Nonsense," Hera responds as they start walking through the outskirts of the party crowd. Whispers about Pyrite's arrival start to travel, just putting a huge smile on their face. "Not with Pirate wearing that outfit."

"Shut up," Pyrite tells him as they enter the house, immediately getting overwhelmed by the music pounding, feeling the bass deep in their chest, and the large crowd gathered. Some people have already started dancing together, using the open space left behind from the couches pushed aside as a makeshift dance floor. "Wow, Armani really went all out for this party."

"Are you really surprised?" Hera shouts over the noise of the crowd as his eyes scan the people present. When he spots his target for the evening, his bright blue eyes light up in excitement before he turns back to Pyrite and Joy, a mischievous grin on his face. "Well friends, come find me before you leave. But if you don't see me, well, hopefully that means things are going well with Endell."

Pyrite watches their friend run off through the crowd, just barely able to see the top of his curly brown hair. On the far side of the room Hera's newest crush leans against the wall, laughing as he holds a plastic cup full of who knows what and talking to his friend Pride. The sight of Pride is a bit of a surprise to them, but it really shouldn't be. He is the younger brother of a victor, even if his sister was a bit unconventional for One. Why shouldn't he be at the party with the trainees? "Why do I feel like he won't be successful at all?" They ask Joy, their friend laughing loudly as Hera reaches Endell and Pride.

"Pyrite!" A loud high pitched voice makes its way over the music to Pyrite, making them look around for a second as they feel happy about being noticed. The host of the evening approaches them, weaving through the crowd at a fast pace that leaves Pyrite questioning how she doesn't spill anything in the two cups she holds. Once Armani gets closer, Pyrite almost gets blinded by the purple lights reflecting off of Armani's dress covered in sequins. Of course the girl's blonde hair is curled perfectly, she probably spent hours getting ready for tonight. "What took you so long? Never mind! You're here now! Have a drink!"

Armani tries to pass one of her cups to Pyrite, shoving the cup close to their face. They can smell the alcohol right away and politely pushes it away. "No thanks. I haven't turned 18 yet so I really don't want to get in trouble with the Peacekeepers."

Armani rolls her eyes at this but keeps grinning at Pyrite. "Come on, Pyrite! Just one night of partying!" Pyrite shakes their head adamantly at this and is almost ready to keep telling Armani no before the girl gives a shrug. "Fine, suit yourself. Joy, you want some?"

"Is that a real question?" Joy answers as she takes the cup from Armani. The host laughs loudly at this as Joy turns her attention to Pyrite. Pyrite watches their friend down half the cup, pursing their lips a little. Not at the drinking, Pyrite could care less if Joy wants to do that. No, they just hope that Joy isn't using it as a way to cope. They stare at Joy's face and the bags under her eyes. No, today isn't a bad depression day. But still, they're concerned for their friend. Joy raises an eyebrow at them, "Hey stop looking at me like that. Yeah I'm into everyone but I'm not making out with my best friend tonight."

"Shut up," they lightly shove their friend as Joy laughs at this, both of them knowing the other is just joking. But Pyrite gets serious for a moment, even as they see Armani standing to the side and looking impatient. "Do you want me to stick with you tonight?"

"Nah," Joy answers with a wave of her free hand. "Go have fun. They're celebrating you, remember?"

"Come on, Pyrite! You need to start partying!" Armani grabs on to Pyrite's arm and starts dragging them through the crowd. They glance back to look at Joy, wanting to make sure she's going to be okay on her own. Joy shakes her head at Pyrite and waves before disappearing into the crowd, tipping back the cup. "I've been talking to Iolite, Yves, and Fendi!"

This makes Pyrite instantly turn their attention back to Armani, feeling their cheeks heating up at the thought of talking to Iolite. "Aren't there other people to talk to?"

Armani laughs loudly at this as Pyrite catches sight of the three girls. "I promise none of them are mad that you took their spot!" Armani turns to wink over her shoulder at Pyrite. "Well, maybe just a little bit."

Pyrite runs a hand through their hair, pushing it back and hoping it looks good as they reach the girls. They all smile at Pyrite but they can't stop looking at Iolite and the way her dress hugs all of her curves and the way her black hair frames her cute little face. God, Pyrite, get it fucking together.

Pyrite clears their throat and gives what they hope is a casual smile. And please let the lighting hide the flush that's forming because Iolite most definitely just checked them out. "Hey ladies."

"Hey Pyrite," Iolite says and gives Pyrite a smile that just sends their heart racing. Damn it, she's so cute. Armani starts chatting away loudly with Yves and Fendi as Iolite leans in closer to Pyrite so she can be heard over the noise. "Is it a masculine day?"

"Yes, ma'am," Pyrite stands up tall, almost giddy with happiness that Iolite noticed that small detail. And it also means that Iolite has paid enough attention to them to notice the differences in Pyrite's appearance to indicate which gender they identify more with that day. "So, uh, listen," Pyrite starts and can see Iolite's striking gray eyes start to look concerned. For a second, they lose track of what they were going to say as Iolite focuses entirely on them. "You don't have any hard feelings towards me being picked, do you?"

Iolite lets out a sigh at this and shrugs before smiling up at Pyrite. "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed to not be going after years of training. But am I mad? Just at myself for not trying harder, not you. The victors chose you, fair and square." Iolite pauses to smile up at Pyrite, making them absolutely certain that they're face is beat red at her attention. "I know you're going to do great and win that title. At least I'll be able to say I was second to the victor."

"You're more than just second to me, you're way more than that," Pyrite responds and swears they see Iolite's cheeks turning red in the light. Well damn, maybe Joy and Hera were right.

"Well look who it is," a voice calls out over the crowd, making Pyrite start frowning as she sees Royce approaching their group. Tall, brutish Royce who should have been the volunteer this year but is so dumb that the victors didn't want to be embarrassed by him. Honestly, Pyrite would rather deal with an untrained tribute than Royce. "Iolite and the girl who she should have been chosen over."

Pyrite's good mood over Iolite's attention instantly disappears, being replaced by annoyance at Royce, especially over him calling them a girl. They try to ignore him, turning their attention back to Iolite. But the girl seems even angrier at Royce. "What do you want? I was having a very nice conversation with them before you showed up."

Pyrite grins a little at Iolite using their proper pronouns but their smile disappears as soon as they glance back over and see Royce's scowling face as his eyes raked hungrily over their appearance. "I don't get why you're wasting your time with her. She shouldn't be the volunteer. So come on, dance with me instead. Pyrite, she's never going to want to dance with you. None of the girls will."

Pyrite stares at Royce, turning more upset with each passing second that this asshole will so blatantly insulting them, not just by refusing to acknowledge their identity but also him implying that none of the girls will like them. Their hands shake as they crack their knuckles, trying to focus on anything other than the asshole in front of them. They've never wanted to use their training outside of the academy before out of fear of getting in trouble, but right now, well, they can understand why some of the trainees have gotten in trouble before for fighting.

"Fuck off, Royce," Iolite angrily calls out to him and in a move that shocks Pyrite, she steps forward and punches him square in the jaw. He stumbles backwards, bumping into a few people who cry out in surprise.

Pyrite doesn't have time to see how he responds as they start pushing through the crowd, just feeling too upset to want to party anymore or have the attention on them. "Pyrite, wait!" Iolite calls out, just making them start walking faster to get to the door.

Once outside, they take a deep breath and start stomping away, still cracking their knuckles to just focus on not going back in and telling off Royce. "What a fucking ass," they angrily mumble to themselves. "He ruined the whole fucking party."

"Pirate!" They hear and pause at the edge of the yard to turn back, stopping at the nickname only their best friends use. Sure enough, Hera and Joy are running towards them. "What happened?" Joy asks as the pair reaches them.

"Royce being an asshole and saying I don't deserve to be the volunteer and also blatantly using the wrong pronouns," Pyrite takes a shaky breath as they jump from foot to foot, trying to calm down so they can get back to enjoying the rest of the party. But it's no use. There's no way they'll be able to have fun now. They turn and start walking down the road, hearing Joy and Hera following after them. "Honestly, I just want to go home."

"Well you're not going without us," Joy answers as she loops her arm with Pyrite's.

Hera does the same with their other arm. "Yeah, even if I was totally going to get Endell's number, I'm still leaving with you."

"Thanks guys," Pyrite says quietly, smiling slightly at them. "I'm sure my mom won't mind you crashing at my place. And don't worry, Hera, you're not the only one who was going to get someone's number. Iolite was totally flirting with me."

Morning of the Reaping

It's odd to see the training academy so empty of other trainees their age, but as Pyrite walks towards the large gym, they can't help but grin at the rearranged area turned into a small banquet. This is it. This is what they've been working towards for years and now the day has finally arrived.

Even if their family isn't in the best mood, Pyrite is still happy to have them with them for this breakfast. After all, it's the last time they'll be together for a few weeks.

"I know I've said this probably a thousand times," their mother starts as they enter the main gym. They both pause so Aria can smile at her child. "But I'm going to say it again. I'm so proud of you and the work you've put in over the years to reach this point."

"Well I'm not," Mica says stubbornly and they both turn to look over at their younger brother. He stands back, arms crossed and a scowl on his face as he stares at Pyrite and their mother. "This is stupid and I don't understand why you're volunteering to die!"

"But I'm not going to die, little bro," Pyrite responds cheerfully, trying not to let Mica's mood ruin their day. Ah, the joys of being a teenager. They ruffle his already messy brown hair, much to his annoyance and he quickly swats away their hand. "I'm going to be the victor and then you'll have to admit that I'm the coolest older sibling ever."

"Unlikely," Mica stubbornly answers before stomping off into the room, heading straight towards the food tables.

Their Uncle Soleil steps forward, letting out a sigh as the three of them watch Mica start throwing food onto a plate, still scowling and getting concerned looks from Richina Fleur, one of the most unexpected victors present, and her younger brother Pride. "I'll go make sure he doesn't piss off all of the victors here." Soleil turns his attention to Pyrite and they smile up at him. "You know what it's like to be that age. I think he's also concerned that there isn't a male volunteer this year."

"Well I'm not worried!" Ruri says excitedly as he inserts himself into the conversation as Soleil starts to head after Mica. Their youngest brother is grinning up at them, still excited that Pyrite is going to be the volunteer.

"Ruri, why don't you go grab some food with your uncle and brother?" Their mother says kindly, but Pyrite can recognize her concerned tone from the two being so close. Ruri listens to her and instantly runs after the other two, grin on his face as he stops to talk excitedly with Tanya, despite the victor being over twice his age. But Pyrite doesn't blame him for stopping. They were a little starstruck too the first time they were able to talk to the first trained victor in One. "Should he be worried?"

Pyrite turns their attention to their mother, pulling her into a half hug as soon as they see her face filled with worry. "I don't think so. His name is in twice."

"Pyrite!" They turn at the sound of their name, grinning at the sight of their mentor approaching. Thetis grins at them, her good mood palpable. "Are you going to stand at the entrance all morning or are you going to actually enjoy the breakfast we've prepared for you?"

Pyrite laughs at this and lets go of their mom to join Thetis. "Of course I'm going to eat. I wouldn't want to pass out before the Reaping."

They turn back to look at their mom who gives them a nod that she'll be fine. Thetis starts to lead them towards the front of the tables, talking quietly as she gives Pyrite a stern look. "You're definitely going to volunteer, right?"

"Of course I am," Pyrite answers immediately, not understanding Thetis's concern.

"Good," Thetis responds and she starts grinning once more. "Sorry, I'm sure you understand my concern given our situation this year. I just wanted to make sure I didn't have to run off and find Iolite before the Reaping."

Pyrite's face flushes slightly at the mention of Iolite. They had successfully avoided lengthy conversations with her since the party, not knowing what to say to her before they head off to the games. "No, you don't need to go running. Unless you want to have one last running session before I volunteer."

Thetis laughs loudly at this as they come to a stop at the front of the room. "No, no, I think you're more than prepared. And you look too nice and ready to volunteer. I would feel bad if you had to get ready once more."

Pyrite glances down at their tight black pants and blue button up, feeling a little underdressed next to some of the siblings and children of the victors present. But at the same time, they don't mind standing out. After all, they are the volunteer. "There would be worse things to do."

"I agree," Thetis responds quietly, smiling at Pyrite before turning her attention to the people gathered. "Okay everyone," Thetis calls out to the victors and their families, turning their attention towards Pyrite and making them start grinning. "Can I have your attention for a couple minutes? Don't worry, I won't keep you very long from your breakfast." A few people in the crowd laugh at this and Pyrite looks around at the gathered people. Seven victors. More than any of the other Districts right now. A few look a bit worried, mostly those here with sons or younger brothers. Especially poor Richina who holds on to her brother Pride's hand with a death grip. Of course she's worried since she was the result of a similar year when there was only one volunteer. But then there are others who look cheerful and excited about the games. Pyrite grins a bit more when they see Ruri still talking to Tanya, the victor being kind enough to keep talking to him still.

"First, I want to say congratulations to Pyrite Cherno, our chosen volunteer," Thetis starts, pausing as the gathered people applaud Pyrite. They wave happily at them, loving being the sole person they're paying attention to. Ruri cheers loudly for them, making a few people nearby laugh at his behavior, including Pyrite. Thetis turns to look at Pyrite, smiling proudly at them. "Pyrite, we're all very proud of you and know you're going to do well in the games. Would you like to say anything?"

"Yes," Pyrite responds before turning their attention to the crowd, grin still on their face. They speak loudly, something they only know how to do from years of being in the theater. "I am very honored to be chosen as the volunteer this year as it's such a prestigious thing. I've trained for years for this and I won't let you down. District One will have a victor this year."

Pyrite smiles at the victors and their relatives as they once again applaud them before nodding at Thetis to continue. "Now, I know we're all a little disappointed that we only have one volunteer this year. Trust me when I say that I am more disappointed than any of you can imagine. I've spent the past eleven years training and preparing volunteers. This training academy is my pride and I love District One. Even to this day, I still wake up and start smiling when I remember that I have earned the title of victor for our District." Thetis pauses as she smiles a little at this before her face turns solemn. "But it's that reason that we couldn't have a male volunteer this year. The options this year were either arrogant and would have been an embarrassment to the system we have or weren't prepared enough."

Thetis lets out a sigh before she starts pacing in front of the victors. Pyrite can't see her face but can tell by her tone that it deeply upsets their mentor that she couldn't have provided two volunteers this year. "Please believe me when I say I hope with everything in me that one of your relatives is not Reaped this year. "Anastasia…" Pyrite looks over at the oldest victor alive in any of the Districts, her face solemn as she holds a young boy close to her. "I know your grandson is just entering Reaping age. And Theo, Leandros, and Richina… You three either have sons or brothers. I sincerely hope they will all be safe."

Pyrite looks out at the gathered crowd, most of the boys there of Reaping age seem so young. Pride is probably the oldest at 17 and might stand the greatest chance if he was picked out of the boys here. Pyrite has seen him in the academy but he never seemed serious about volunteering. But it doesn't matter. They all probably have extremely low chances of being picked and Pyrite is in agreeance with Thetis. They don't want to see a victor's relative entering the arena with them.

"Now, enough of being solemn," Thetis finally continues, starting to smile once more. "We still have a reason to celebrate today." Petrina, one of the older victors, steps forward with two glasses of champagne and hands one to each of them. Pyrite sniffs the glass, still not really accustomed to drinking since their eighteenth birthday. But they'll still drink a little now. After all, Thetis is raising her glass in honor of Pyrite. It would be rude for them not to drink when they're all excited for them to be the victor. "To Pyrite Cherno, District One's next victor."

"To Pyrite!" The gathered crowd echoes, their brother Rumi the loudest with his glass of orange juice in hand. As Pyrite raises their glass with them, they can't help but feel on top of the world. And it's only going to get better in the Capitol.

Rhea Dragonstone, Escort for District One

Another year, another trip back to District One, much to Rhea's delight. She's worked her way here, starting out in District Ten eighteen years ago. And she plans to keep coming back to District One for at least another ten years. Who wouldn't want to be here? They're the superior District as far as looks go and they have the most victors.

Rhea braces herself to exit the Justice Building, ready to make her appearance, especially since she in the last year she finally got the alteration to add a pair of beautiful dragon wings to her back. And with her hair freshly dyed platinum blonde and braided elegantly, Rhea is on top of the world. She gets the signal for her entrance and gives a nod to her assistants to throw open the doors, grinning as she steps out on the stage.

"Hello District One!" Rhea yells out to the crowd, getting some faces of surprise before the crowd gives applause at her appearance. After all, this is her eighth year as an escort in One. They know her well. But the applause isn't as loud as it usually is, almost making Rhea frown a little. The rumors must be true then and they don't have two volunteers. But she keeps the grin on her face as she remembers that this is her big moment. "It is just wonderful to be back here in District One! You're looking as beautiful as always!"

"Of course, I'm Rhea Dragonstone and I'm ready to bring home another victor to District One!" This time, the whole crowd genuinely cheers at her statement. Rhea grins out at them and clasps her hands together. "Now, should we get started?"

With the crowd cheering, Rhea makes her way to the left side of the stage, loving the fact that Panem is getting a great profile shot of her new wings. She can't wait to get back to hear what her friends say. She wastes no time in picking a slip from the top of the bowl and returns to the microphone, excited to see who will be coming to the stage. "And our female tribute is Peyton Callard!"

A girl steps out of the sixteen-year-old section, smile on her face and looking as if she was going to attend a wedding, not the Reaping. But she walks confidently on stage, making Rhea certain that there will be a volunteer stepping forward. That or the girl has trained and wants to be the tribute. "And of course, are there any volunteers?"

"Yes, I volunteer!" A voice cries out loudly before the figure steps out from the very front of the crowd, quickly approaching the stage. They practically run up the steps and takes the microphone from Rhea, leaving her staring at the volunteer in surprise. Their appearance is a bit unusual for the typical volunteers Rhea has seen, dressed in a pair of black jeans and a blue button up. And platinum blond hair cut short and shaved on the sides that could rival Rhea's in color. But Rhea nods her head approvingly at their toned muscles. They've clearly trained for this. "I'm Pyrite Cherno and I'm excited to be District One's next victor!"

Pyrite passes the microphone back to Rhea as the crowd cheers for them, looking like they could die of happiness right now from their attention. Well, not really die, Rhea wants to have a victor. "Welcome, Pyrite. Now, let's see who will join Pyrite!" As Rhea walks over to the other glass ball, she silently hopes that the rumors won't be true and there will be two volunteers. Pyrite looks more than capable of winning but Rhea doesn't want to count on just one person. She hesitates for a moment before picking a slip and quickly walking back to the microphone. "Alright our male tribute is…" Rhea's blood definitely runs cold when she sees the name written on the piece of paper, making her hope even more that someone will take his place. "Pride Flourish."

An unhappy murmur travels through the crowd as Rhea looks back at the victors on the stage, finding Pride's sister Richina right away since she's still their youngest victor. Her face has grown pale as she stares straight ahead in shock as Pyrite mumbles next to Rhea. "Wow."

Rhea turns her attention back to the crowd in time to see Pride leaving the seventeen-year-old section, trying to look confident as he walks to the stage but his eyes are wide as he looks up at Rhea and Pyrite. He only hesitates for a moment at the stairs before walking up onto the stage. He towers over Rhea and even Pyrite, looking quite pretty and further making Rhea believe that District One has the most beautiful people outside of the Capitol.

Rhea takes a deep breath as she keeps her smile on, hoping someone will step forward. "And are there any volunteers for Pride?" The crowd stays quiet and Rhea can feel her smile falter as she hears a small sob coming from behind her on the stage. She doesn't dare turn and look at Richina, knowing she won't be able to handle seeing one of the victors crying. "No?" Rhea asks, starting to feel desperate for someone to come forward. She loves the victors too much to see one of their relatives go into the games.

But no one volunteers for Pride. "Well, ladies and gentlemen, we have our tributes for the 113th Hunger Games," Rhea says sadly with a sigh. "Pyrite Cherno and Pride Flourish."

Rhea tries to keep the smile on her face as she turns around, watching the two tributes hesitantly shake hands. This year is going to be her most challenging yet.

Goodbyes

Thetis totally jinxed District One this morning at their breakfast. She talked so much about hoping that one of the victor's relatives wouldn't be chosen with them. And now, Pyrite has to go into the games with Pride Flourish. At least they have some amount of training. Not enough to be even remotely close to being considered as a volunteer for the games… but maybe enough to keep him alive longer than the bloodbath.

And now Pyrite has the difficult decision of what to do with him. They could just ignore him and let him figure out his own alliance. But they can't do that. Not when they saw the look on Richina's face. Pyrite shakes their head as they stare out the window, watching the crowds leaving the City Square. Yes, they're going to have to help him out, at least a little.

Pyrite turns at the sound of the door opening and starts smiling at the sight of their mother and Ruri. But their smile falters when they're the only two walking in. Their mother smiles knowingly as she shuts the door behind them. "Mica still thinks you're being an idiot – his words, not mine," she chuckles a little at this and Pyrite shakes their head as their mother approaches before hugging her tightly. "Soleil followed after him to make sure he didn't start some drama or something worse in his teenage rage. He does send his love though."

"Why am I not surprised by Mica?" Pyrite asks before letting go of their mother, letting out a small sigh. "I had hoped to tease him before I left but I guess I'll just have to wait until I get back."

"I can't believe my older sibling is the volunteer!" Ruri says excitedly, drawing Pyrite's attention away from their mother. They hug him, feeling excited themselves at this day finally arriving. It had felt so amazing being up on the stage and the entire District cheering for them. "You're going to look so awesome in the Capitol and obviously you're going to kick ass in the games."

"Ruri!" Their mother calls out at his swearing, making Pyrite laugh as his face as he starts cringing.

"Sorry mom, blame Mica for teaching me that one," Ruri gives a nervous chuckle, clearly hoping their mother will be content with passing along the blame. "But anyways, Pyrite, I can't wait to watch you in the games and I'm going to brag to everyone in school about how awesome my sibling is and how that will be me in five years!"

"Well keep working hard and maybe you'll get there," Pyrite tells him, although inside they're hoping a little that he'll grow out of his extreme excitement over the games and won't want to volunteer. They're not sure if they would be able to handle watching him in the games or even being his mentor. They look at their mother and brother before they start grinning. "I'm going to miss you two, and Uncle Soleil and Mica. But I'll be back soon."

"I know, Pyrite, but I'm still going to worry about you just a little bit," their mother pulls them in for another tight hug. "We're all so very proud of you. And I love you so very much."

"I love you too, mom," Pyrite answers as they hug her before stepping back. They grab on to Ruri with one arm and use their free hand to mess up his short blond hair. "Don't cause too much trouble while I'm gone."

"No guarantees on that," Ruri responds as he slips out of their grip, laughing as he runs over to the door. "Love ya, Pyrite!"

"Love you too little bro!" Pyrite shouts at them as he leaves the room, their mom starting to follow after him. She pauses in the doorway to look back at Pyrite, tears in her eyes despite the proud smile on her face. "Mom, I'll be back."

"I know but it's my job to worry," she answers with a shrug. "You're my first child, I'm always going to worry about you."

Pyrite grins at this, doubting there will be a day when they aren't happy about how much their mother loves them. "I love you, mom."

"And I love you too. I'll see you in a couple weeks."

Their mother doesn't close the door behind her and soon enough, Joy and Hera walk in, both grinning at Pyrite. "Pirate!" Hera shouts happily and throws his arms in the air. "You did it!"

"I know!" Pyrite says with a laugh, still feeling on top of the world.

Hera reaches them and grabs on to them in a tight hug. "My best friend is so awesome and you're going to be amazing in the games."

Pyrite returns the hug, still smiling but as they look at Joy slowly walking over, their smile starts to falter. "Jo?"

Joy gives them a small smile but it doesn't reach her eyes. Eyes with large bags under them. "Sorry Pirate, I don't want to ruin your big day. I just…today isn't a good day for me."

"Come here," Hera responds and lets go of Pyrite just enough to pull Joy into their hug. Pyrite holds on to Joy tightly, wishing there was more they could do for their friend. "Pirate is going to kick ass and there's nothing for us to be worried about."

"I know so stop hugging me," Joy says, voice mumbled as her face is getting pressed against Hera's chest. Pyrite and Hera both laugh at this and let go of Joy. "But it's kind of terrible luck that Pirate has to go in with the brother of a victor."

Pyrite shakes their head at this, still not sure what to do. "Tell me about it."

"What are you going to do?" Joy asks them and Pyrite simply shrugs at her, still not fully knowing what to do and just wanting to talk to Thetis about it.

"They're going to become the victor, that's what they're going to do," Hera answers confidently, his faith in them making Pyrite instantly light up. "We knew there would be an untrained tribute with them and it doesn't matter that he's Richina's brother. Yeah it will suck when someone that attractive dies but Pirate is still going to win."

Pyrite laughs loudly at Hera's comment, even Joy chuckles a little. "Oh I love you guys," Pyrite responds before pulling them back in for a hug. "And yes, I'm going to do exactly what Hera just said."

When they let go of their friends, Joy gets a bit of a mischievous smile on her face. She clears her throat before speaking in a loud and dramatic voice. "Ladies, gentlemen, and all genders in-between: Pyrite Cherno, victor of the 113th Hunger Games!"

Hera cheers loudly at this and Pyrite bursts out in laughter at the two of them. "The other tributes are going to be so boring compared to you two!"

"Well good, you don't want them like us," Hera scoffs at this and shakes his head. "Then you wouldn't be able to kill them and become victor. But, I suppose it is time to say farewell, Pirate."

"I'll miss you two," Pyrite tells them as Hera grabs Joy's arm, ready to start leading her towards the door.

"We'll see you in a couple weeks," Joy tells them, giving them a small smile.

Hera opens the door and turns back, a grin on his face that makes Pyrite instantly think that he's up to trouble. "Oh hi, Iolite," he calls loudly as they walk through the door.

Pyrite scrambles to straighten out their outfit, not ready for the girl to walk in. Iolite stays near the door, shutting it behind her as she smiles at Pyrite. "Hey Pyrite. I wanted to stop by and say good luck."

"Thank you," Pyrite responds quietly, face heating up and heart racing, even though they don't know why. They really have no reason to be feeling this way towards Iolite since they've barely talked since the party.

Iolite opens the door to leave but pauses to turn back to look at Pyrite. "Oh and when you get back, make sure you come see me," she says with a quick wink before slipping through the door.

Pyrite grins at the door as they're left alone, falling back onto the couch and feeling like they could do anything right now with how great they feel after volunteering, the crowd's attention, and now Iolite stopping by. This might just be the best day ever.

No one else stops by to see them, not that Pyrite really expected anyone to show up. And when Rhea comes to take them to the train station, they still have a grin on their face at Iolite's attention. While Pride looks sad and struggles to wave at the crowd gathered at the train station, Pyrite has no problem waving at them and basking in the attention that they're giving them, District One's next victor.

I want to start by saying huge thanks to VeneratedArt and HoppsHungerFan for Pyrite and Pride respectively! I really hope I did well with Pyrite and obviously we're going to see a lot more of Pride in future chapters! And I tried my very best to make sure I used Pyrite's proper pronouns throughout but as they are my first tribute using they/them pronouns, I'm gonna apologize now if I messed up at all and missed it when reading through again. Also Art, I hope you don't mind me creating Iolite because I wanted to give Pyrite a cute girl interested in them.

So there we go, our first featured tribute! Oh and as we go through the intro chapters, let me know if you see any possible alliances because I literally have nothing planned right now for allies. Let me know what you think and I'll see you next time in District Eleven!