1st POV- Vivian Carosso- District 2 Male Tribute- Age of 18.
I dodged the knife as it dug itself in the wall nearby.
Ah, yeah. What a great way to begin Reaping day. Fighting with my older brother, who happens to be a Victor, in a no-barred fight. And as in the words of my dad, if I die, I die.
Yes, an amazing morning filled with dodging swords, knives, and close combat fighting around the training center beginning as early as five thirty, in the morning. I haven't got the chance to look at a clock to find out what time it is. Or even when will I be able to eat for that matter. At five I was whisked away from my slumber, drove to the Training Center on the empty late night streets, and was ordered to begin fighting. To test me out to see if I was truly ready for the Games. Having only five hours of sleep, as I was busy doing late night training courses here, I am clearly at a disadvantage, and my brother wanted my head for a trophy. Literally.
I guess you could say we got an interesting family dynamics. I am the son of a Victor of the Hunger Games. The first one may I add. And my brother won the 27th Hunger Games. Nearly everyone in the District expects me to be the next Victor, as my older sister got killed in it four years ago in the arena, and my older cousin won the Games nine years ago. Being forced into first class training, never going into a regular school. Being taught that friends were meaningless to survival. You can say I have a pretty unorthodox life. Well that is the price of living perhaps, not that I know of any.
A spear flew near my head, as I ducked down and moved to the left. I needed to get closer to him. And my father won't stop this fight till either I die, or I either seriously injure my brother, or maybe put him in a death hold if I really put my head right. The problem is that I can't get near him! We were doing some intense close combat, fighting for our lives, till I managed to pull away. Now that I got away, after for who knows so long, I needed to get close. I can't tell the time by the sun either, since this place have no windows whatsoever, and my brother covered any exit points I may use. Not that I would run away, my father would kill me on the spot. Apparently it is surprisingly legal... who makes these laws anyways!?
We were placed in the weapon training area of the center, so any and all types of weapons are used in this fight. Bows, spears, swords, even shuriken, or throwing stars, you name it, all instruments of death and my brother is making good use of them.
After giving up being tactical, I dropped my sword and threw a spear on the floor at him. He dodged it like it was child's play and ran towards me, sword drawn out. He must have been waiting for this moment, for me to resort to long ranged weapons, to drop my sword so he can have an opening. I have no time to berate myself as I sword came crashing down at my head, quickly rolling sideways, I picked up a sword one the bloodied floor and blocked the next swing coming at me with it. We exchanged a few blows before I finally found an opening. I cut him through his shoulder, making him scream in shock and pain, I disarmed him and held the sword at his neck, drawing some blood out.
And lo, the battle was over.
After sheathing the sword back into the rack. My father came over to inspect me. I demeaning look in his eyes, as I stared back at him. Is there another test I have to do, or worse, will I have to fight him? I have multiple cuts and bruises all over me, which the pain I ignored for a long time, and I am exhausted. Who wouldn't be after having to make sure you don't get turned into mincemeat for hours on end?
"It is 9:40. Dress appropriately. We will see you in the town square. Don't disappoint me." My father ordered blankly. I nodded my head as he and my brother, who is growling at me, walking by side with my dad. After they left through the door. I walked over to the private showers in the training room, and began rinsing the blood off me. Normally the other students will be here, but today is the District-wide celebratory holiday known as Reaping Day. The day where legends are made, and Victors are chosen. As they like to say.
Today, the specialty areas of the Training Center is reserved for the chosen volunteers, and other acceptable students and staff. None of them dared go into the weapon training room, in fear of my intimidating father and murderously insane brother. That is, all except that little shadow hiding behind the weapon display cabinet near the corner of the room. One of my only companions in the District. After getting out of the showers, and putting some decent clothing on, I came back to the room to find that little shadow, holding a knife and supporting a big grin as she noticed me.
She had black hair, Asian complexity, and dark eyes, could be called black if you want to describe it. She average height for a sixteen year old, and she have a well developed body, both in physical department, and I admit, the sexual one as well. Carelessly throwing a knife into a dummy, hitting it straight in the head. She ran up and hugged me. Something that I only experience from her, and even then it is on very rare occasions, so it is still a new feeling for me. Normally when one touches me, it is nearly all the time an attempted assault, or in my brother's case, trying to strangle me to death.
I don't know this feeling, it feels... how do I put it? Warm? Soft? I don't really understand perhaps, but it is certainly different. More, accepting.
And, the only reason why I am even allowed to associate with her is because she is also a child of a Victor. My dad would not let me associate with other unruly peasants, as most of my family dubs them.
"You survived!? Oh my God I thought I was going to lose you there." She giggled as she released me from her grip.
"You thought I was going to die? I am disappointed in you, Aiko." I said, faking a pout.
"I seen your brother, he is not one to reject an opportunity to spill blood..." Aiko said, as I remain solemn. Aiko then smiled as she grabbed my arm and pulled me out of the room, and into another one. This one was spacey, but not large enough as most of the other areas in this building. It had a small ring, no railings, and had a couple chairs around it. This was a private sparring room, and I know that this girl will not let me go until she gets what she wants. She have been here since before me, hiding in that place and watching me fight for her own entertainment. It have come to me that even when I am fighting to the death, she always wanted me as the center of her amusement.
She jumped up on the ring and stood in the middle, hands on her hips, and looking at me. I just stood there and stared, and she began to grow irritated. Might as well return the favor by making her agitated as well.
"So, the mighty Vivian. Son, brother, and cousin of three famous Hunger Games Victors, is afraid to fight a small girl like me? This is surely going on the gossip vine tonight." Aiko giggled. I just have the worst luck in the world don't I? Well, I have some time left, might as well use it wisely. I didn't even eat yet though, but then again, there would be tons of food from what I heard in the train, so I could manage. Considering the fact there may be times where there is a shortage of food in the arena, I will just have to get used to it.
Grudgingly, I went up on the ring and faced her. She have a confident look on her face and went into her usual stance. No weapons apparently, just pure fighting. I nodded my head for her to begin, and she dashed forward and aimed a kick towards my gut. Sidestepping the first blow. I grabbed her arm, she tried to break free, but she can't escape my grip now. Pulling her in, I punched her directly in the face, and she went down.
But, like my non-existent good will and luck, Aiko popped back up unfazed and aimed a chop to my neck, intending to most likely knock me out. Leaning backwards, I went under the arm, grabbed it, and flip her over on the hard wood that makes up the ring. The impact rumbled a vibrating sound from the impact, but even then Aiko went back up and continued fighting back like that didn't just happen.
This went on for a while, Aiko attacked, I put her on the floor. Repeat. I am terrible at keeping time, so I decided to let her have a shot at me. Thinking that she would be tired, I can't express how much I regretted it, she punched my directly in the jaw, and the force knocked me down. Looking up, I was expected to see her face full of smug. But to my surprise, she was furious.
"YOU BAKA! DON'T YOU EVER HOLD PUNCHES AT ME! I DON'T NEED YOUR PITY! YOU OVERGLORIFED BOAR'S ANUS!" She screeched, as I winced on the floor from the volume of her voice. I didn't even have a moment to tell her an excuse, as she began stomping on me in rage.
While I have taken more severe beatings without even so much as twitching, when one anger an emotional female, who so happens to be a prodigy in close handed combat, and also know and memorized by heart the fifty-five practical ways of killing people, you are bound to feel some kind of pain. And, as the universe love me so much, I was on the receiving end of it.
Now, I am walking down the street to the square, bruised, battered, clothes all wrinkled up, and my once combed black hair now in different directions, having to be berated from my father for bringing dishonor to the family is the very least of my worries. With Aiko grinning in entertainment at my distress, people would think we did more than 'train'. While I may not give a snowball's chance in hell a second glance in gossip, rumors of a relationship, as they call it, with the son of the 'most honorable Carosso family' and the daughter of Hiroki Adachi will certainly be on the daily news page, and considering my love with whoever the bastard that runs my life deal with my luck, could very well be on the front cover.
Oh what a wonderful day.
"...what do you think?" Her voice caught my attention.
"What do you mean?" I asked her, as she rolled her eyes.
"I mean, the other Careers. Sure the outer tributes will bring little worry, but the other ones. What do you think?"
Ah, finally, I possible decent and sane conversation with someone.
"District 4 tend to send weak students, if some at all, compared to us and even District 1. They should pose no threat. District 1 sometimes send decent ones, which might cause some worry, but can be managed. My district partner though... I don't even remember much of her." I deduced. Aiko put her hand on her chin and began to think for a while.
"Well, her name is Reese Caspian if I remember correctly... Her family is supportive to the Capitol, and she barely appears for training."
I had to hold a snort. Aiko seems clearly more capable, but then again, I wouldn't want to face her in the arena, and the trainers and her father says she needs more experience.
"It seems like they choose anyone to volunteer nowadays." I said, and at this, she glared at me.
"There was two times we spar. And she beat me both of the times."
Now that surprised me. I know with me, it is child's play to win a match against her, but then again, I am basically the strongest one in the center, as it proves no challenge to beat anyone in the academy. Including the fact the Aiko even received high standing recognition at even the early age of fourteen, this Reese might actually be some sort of threat.
Aiko noticed my expression.
"Geez, Vivi', don't need to be so piss scared, you beat me easily, I couldn't even lay a blow on you. I am sure you will do fine!" Aiko grinned at me.
Aside from all the crap I have to put up from my life, having someone who believed that you can actually achieve really makes all of it worth my time.
We came to the sign up station, where a few kids were hurrying to get signed it. The whole square was filled with the citizens of District 2, and due to the clock in the center of it, we can see clearly that we are far in fact late. Bidding Aiko goodbye, I went up into the desk, gave my information to the Peacekeeper, and gave him my hand. I have come to feel pain so much, that I didn't even feel it when they pricked my finger. Going down the row and into the eighteen year old section. The Capitol video, which was playing while I was signing in, was over and the escort went back to the microphone.
I have never understood Capitol apparel, and it never ceases to amaze me on the fabricated grotesqueness about it. She was wearing a massacre of colors, and her hair was dyed rainbow-themed, from red to violet down her long hair. The make-up was so artificial and fake it was overwhelming and she when she talked about what an honor it was to be here, her voice was so loud and squealing.
Ah yes, me and that person who runs our existence sure love each other.
The mayor, a prickled old man with white hair, which is balding, and hunched back. He read off our eight victors and read the Treaty of Treason. He praised us for our diligence and work to being the District with the largest amount of Victors, and the crowd cheered. I don't like paying too much attention at Hunger Games glory, or for the fact why am I volunteering. I know it is because I was trained to and all but... why? To bring more honor most likely, but I could just be a high ranking Peacekeeper, that would have sufficed enough. Unfortunately, it won't. But even if it did, who said I had a choice?
"A beautiful message! So marvelous!" The escort exclaimed, swooning in awe. Even the most frantic of Capitol supporters can tell that she is overreacting. All for the cameras. "Now, time for the best part of the day! Picking two brave, bold, warriors to fight in the most upmost honor of the Hunger Games!"
The square erupted in cheers, as the escort waits excitedly for them to calm down. She walked over to the girl's bin and slowly puts a hand in. Before she can even touch a slip, a hand raised up.
"I volunteer! I volunteer as tribute!" A voice called out from the across the row, into the girl's section. A tall brunette walked forward with a grin on her face. I eyed her for a while, she looks fit, trained, and if this is actually this Reese, then she would make a formidable ally. When the escort, who is smiling from grin to grin about having a strong looking girl as the female tribute, confirmed of my suspicion that it was Reese. From the looks, she have the strength, but the mentality, she acts like all of it was just a game. Even the most arrogant or sadistic of Careers have some sort of look on their face that this will be not just fun and fluff. No, they have the look like they know that this will cause at least some trouble. No one gets out of the arena unscathed, either physically, or mentally. Most of the time both.
This girl, she doesn't have the look. And that alone, tells me she would cause some problems.
And again, what else did I expect? She dyed a Victor's undergarments pink. The same Victor that holds the records of the most kills in the Hunger Games for over twenty four years now, and possibly twenty five. I may be capable of beating anyone at the Training Center in even a five on one match, but not a Victor, even the weakest one, I can't barely beat without taking severe damage. It is a wonder how she is not dead yet.
Like always, whoever runs my life, hates me, and clearly favors her more.
The escort is already at the boy's bowl, and is about to put a hand in. Well, rather die in the Games, than by the hands of my brother, or possibly even my father. I had enough of near death beatings today than I ever did throughout my poor eighteen years of existence. Or it sure feels that way. Maybe the punch Aiko gave me still making my mind blurry.
"I volunteer as tribute." I announced, as I calmly walked over to the stage. The escort even smiled more, as now she have two strong tributes that represent her and her reputation. What more, I am part of the famous Carosso family, the one who is claimed to be the next Victor. Of course a Capitolian in a high ranking job as an Escort would surely not be content until he or she have the most epitome of them all. And that, to my great annoyance, is me.
"A strong hunk, right here!" The escort screeched, as I had to discreetly shudder, I found Aiko in the crowd, and it she have a furious look on her face. She is most likely upset about what the escort said, out loud if you don't mind.
"So, tell me, mind if you announce your name to Panem. Mark yourself in the history books?" The clinging escort asked. As I shrugged my shoulders nonchalantly. Taking a page off of my now District partner.
"Vivian Carosso." I answered simply. As the escort squealed in excitement,
"Perfect! We see winners this year folks! Ladies and Gentlemen, this year volunteers!" The escort cheered over the microphone, as the square applauded. "Shake hands, future Victors."
I faced Reese, as she let out a grin and shook my hand. There is a mask, like a hidden puzzle, about her. She acts careless, but I am not foolish. Something is off, she doesn't want me to know anything, if the looks on her face says so. I am not like one of the geniuses at the Nut, but solving problems would be of great use in the arena. And if I want to come back alive, I would need to know about my opponents. Same for the other Careers. Even if they are weaker, if they are chosen to volunteer, there would be something about them that makes them qualified, above their standards.
Some Games this would be...
1st POV- Mila Corinth- District 6 Female Tribute- Age of 16.
"Don't lose focus! If this fight continues on, you would be dead! Come back harder!" A voice ordered, as my hand gripped the sword, my forehead beading with sweat. Charging forward, I attempted to slash her through the side, but she blocked the strike with her knife.
Pulling back I tried for a different approach, this time trying for a vertical angle through her shoulder. She had brought the knife upward, deflecting the sword, and swept me under my feet. Landing on the ground hard, I rolled to the side before she could pierce me and swing my sword across. Effectively leaving a gashing cut across her arm.
Quickly getting up on my feet, I pointed my sword at her heart, and forced her to surrender.
"I guess I lost. You are more than ready. We will talk more in the train." Tabitha, my mentor, grinned at me. Nodding to her in appreciation, I washed the blood off me in the bathroom, and headed out of her mansion in Victor's Village. Craig, my dick of a father, lives right across from her. But I don't belong there anyways. I have a promise to keep to him though, and today was my time to uphold it.
It have not been a year yet since I have kicked myself out of the house. With my younger brother as well. But it doesn't feel so much different. Living with my friend Keith and Alexander, although it feels so much more better, aside from the fact that I know this year I will be going to the Games. A deal I struck with the bastard, to not lay a hand on him. Because he have a different preference. If it were like in District 1 I assume it would be okay, but here in District 6, as population is quite low, it is generally looked down upon, and it could make someone reputation diminish.
I never understood it. But my dad took it to the extreme, same for that slut of a stepmother.
No time dwelling in the past, need to prepare myself. I thought to myself, as I got out of Victor's Village and walked down the run down suburban streets of District 6. Normally it would be bustling with people, selling merchandise, the younger kids goofing off and making a mess out of things- which I don't mind, fun times pranking the mayor's family, or the Peacekeepers when I was feeling bold enough-, and the rise of those morphling addicts in the alleyways selling them. Never tried them, and hopefully never will. I don't want drugs to make me happy, I can very well do that by myself.
But today, the streets are silence, some people walking with each other, whispering solemnly, and some adults heading for the nearby bar. To take a shot or two for this day I supposed. It is all dreary, and it all just doesn't fit my mood. Especially when you know that you are going to be fighting for your life in a week, all just to continue this damned heritage for my sorry excuse of a dad, and stop him from hurting my brother just because he was different.
The smell of oil is still in the air, but only a lingering feeling, as workers are off today. I never really noticed it till now, when the smell of gasoline is only standing by, lingering from a busy day. I know for a fact that the Capitol won't have this aroma, and it won't feel like home. Nor will the other tributes, whom all except one will be dead by the end of the month, be welcoming, neither the tributes from the Careers District either. I will have to ally with them someway in order to stand a chance, but will I be able to play in their level. I might be the daughter of a Victor, but even so, they are trained by several. I have only been trained by two. One if you count the fact my father stopped training me after I left the house. And even then I can't trust them, last year, the girl from District 1 killed her ally, or what seems like friends, after she was bloodied and begging for help. To think such an unforgiving person won the Games.
I guess people will do anything to win, and I am not excluded.
Walking through the slums, junk littered all across the yards and lights off in most of the house. I come across my current home, and opened the battered door. The smell of a savory type of meat filled the air of the small house, as Keith, one of my friends and the owner of this house, is over the stove, frying a curvy and crispy looking meat on the pan.
Bacon, a rare delicacy in District 6. One pack of it have the same amount of value as a used car. In other words, expensive.
Keith doesn't noticed me, as I calmly walked behind him, peering slightly to the pan for a better look. The cooking oil under the meat is bubbling, as he flips it over with a spatula. Staying away from his line of sight, I slowly backed up and began getting his attention.
"How did you afford bacon? Don't tell me there is a secret stash in here." I asked while leaning over the counter. He jumped a little, as he turned to face me.
"Seems like your stealth is unpredictable. You are good enough to be my shadow you know." He chuckled, as I snorted at him.
"Would take the offer, but your girlfriend would be plotting out my death, and I don't want her on my back anytime soon." I commented, and at this he laughs.
"I feel you Mila. Anyways, Rachelle is in my room putting on some make up, and Alex brought Will out to do one of his mischief again. Might want to brush up before eating, they will come any minute now." Keith suggested, getting back to cooking the bacon. I walked down the narrow hall and into the room on the left and switching on the lights, revealing the tidy room, compared to the outside.
Well part of it. My long time friend Alex's side of the room can make the junkyard nearby the District look like those platinum buildings in District 1 and the Capitol. It reeks too.
There was three mattresses on the floor, and I took the one away from Alex's side and near the door, with my brother Will's in the wall and Alex's near the window. Let some of the putrid order escape through the window, it helps a lot. Walking over to wooden dresser, I opened it and took out a dark mahogany tank top, some jeans, and a leather jacket. It have been slightly torn from the times I wore it, but it still looks presentable enough not for the Peacekeepers to barge in our home and demand money.
Lacing up some leather shoes, I left the room and went back into the kitchen and dining room area to find that Keith have already set up the plates on the table, with him and his lover Rachelle, a very short girl who happens to be nineteen, nearly shorter than me, sitting on the table eating bacon and a bowl of can vegetables. Three other plates were set, and I decided to sit next to Keith, and began eating down the meal.
Oh, that reminds me, where is Will and Alex.
The door slamming open with the two guys in question, panting heavily as Alex quickly slammed the door shut.
"Remind me not to listen to what this guy offer me to do." Will deadpanned, as the whole table laughed.
"Will, you have been here for almost a year, if you have not realized that by now, you will need some help." Rachelle snickered, as he huffed and Alex was still gasping for air.
"Never, ever, engage contact with morhplings and drunk girls any given time. High possibility of being castrated, and an even higher chance of death." He said, plopping down on a chair and began eating.
Do I even want to know what happen?
"He groped a couple girls at the bar, claiming that it would be 'educational' and will 'motivate' me to 'go all out'." Will explained, as me and Keith sweat dropped and Rachelle glared at the culprit.
Yep, I didn't want to know.
"I regret nothing." He said with a grin as he chomped down at his plate.
In times like these, I know that I will miss this place for when I am in the Games. Surrounded by kids and teens I don't even know. Facing the imminent possibility of dying, and performing this all for the sick and twisted entertainment of the Capitol. Sure the some rebels are still alive after this time, but this have been going on for thirty years. Sickening. And to think that I am going this year.
But, I won't regret it, I promised my father that if I volunteer... and came back alive, he won't hurt Will. That is all the motivation I need.
And I plan on fulfilling that promise, even if it means getting my hands of innocent blood.
[One hour later]
I am grateful we came on an average time. The lines are simple, and the square, which is near District 6's train station, the largest one in all of Panem, and the Justice Building, which have been renovated each year for the Reaping. Even before two kids fates are sealed, everything need to look prim and proper for the cameras.
They can't hide the truth though, they can never truly conceal it. The forlorn looks on the faces of citizens, and the sorrow when the loves ones are reaped. They can't hide it with special effects, especially when it is live. And the fear expressed on the tributes' faces. No one can hide it.
Besides, nothing is hidden in the Games. Not when secrets are revealed, or betrayals are shown. All the Victors' moments are recorded. And everything they do in the Games, and after are monitored. Controlled mostly be President Cheren. Am I will also be watched by the President after I win the Games... if I win. Perhaps.
Well, that can't be all true, but everyone knows of my father's two kids. But they don't know what he do to them. Everyone knows of that whore he calls my stepmother, but no one knows she never stood up for me or Will. All they know of is my father's victory in the Hunger Games. All they know of is how my father killed the messed up in the head District 7 girl. They all know when he decapitated that boy from District 1 in the bloodbath. They don't know what is posted on the T.V or the magazines.
That brings little comfort, but not enough to relieve my stress.
Already signed in, I went into the sixteen year old section and stood right next to a girl with black hair and brown eyes, she was slightly taller than I was, and she had a cast over her leg, which explains why she is standing on crutches. I see the fear in her eyes, but this year, I know she won't be reaped, and will be healed by next year. For I am going to the Games myself, not her.
The clock hand turned to the one, and the escort went up to the stage. She had natural red hair, which natural hair is very rare to find in the Capitol from what I saw in the television, with an orange dress and shoes. The only impurity I find in her is the tattoo on her neck, I couldn't see that closely so I can't make the figure out, but it spells out a word, or is a bunch of shapes. Most likely the former, but considering the style those Capitol people wear, it is not generally improbable.
"Hello, citizens of District 6. It is an honor for me to be here to choose two brave young man and woman to represent us in the Hunger Games." I rolled my eyes at this, most, if not all, escorts want either District 1, 2, or 4. The Career Districts, and the people I will have to team up with if I want to increase my chances of survival. They tend to be bloodthirsty, from what I saw in the previous Games. Well trained and knows well about survival, which is another reason allying with them is a good idea. But they are also arrogant, and don't generally think logically, which tends to be their downfall most of the time. Underestimating an opponent. Though, in all the Games for the past seven years, the Victors have been Careers, and will be the dominating force in the Games.
Throw in the fact that they serve the Capitol's wishes, and is dosed in wealth, they are pretty much the Games. The problem for me is, how do I survive. Let the get killed off? Two or three will still remain after the final eight most of the times, so I can't rely on that fact. Nor will poisoning their food or killing them in their sleep will be a good option either. I might be able to fight one Career in an all out brawl and come out alive, two if I am at a huge advantage with either weapons or terrain, but three or all, I can't survive that.
I can't use the strategy of how my mentor and friend Tabitha won either. As she won in a time before the Careers were formed. Killing off the dominating forces first, the hulking mass of flesh from District 2. The spear wielder from 11. And later on killing the girl from District 10, who blew darts at tributes with pinpoint accuracy. But, that was eighteen years ago. The same tactic won't work now.
Thinking about these plans and strategy really took a toll on my attention span, as the list of Victors were already read. Only two, my father, Craig Corinth, and Tabitha Quentin, the video was played, and the Treaty of Treason was read. Now the escort is walking over to the girl's bowl and pulling a slip out. When she got to the microphone, I raised my hand high.
"I volunteer as tribute!" I yelled out loudly, as all eyes are focused on me. Ignoring them, I walked over to the escort, expecting a smile from her, as she got a volunteer. Surprisingly she only gave a glance before asking my name.
Whatever, not like it won't matter.
"Mila Corinth." I said, as she gave a small smile. I peered my eyes over to where my father and Tabitha are. On the Victor's stand. Tabitha had a neutral look on her face, and my dad had a grin adorned on his face.
So your only daughter is being sent to her possible death, and you have the audacity to smile? Twisted bastard.
Looking over to the crowd, I saw Alex first, on the seventeen year old section, with a shocked look on his face. I am guessing he, Keith and Rachelle thought I was going to volunteer when I was eighteen. But, I didn't told them clearly what the deal was entitled to, and made them totally unprepared for today. I owe an apology once I get to the Justice Building. Keith also had a shocked look on his face, then slowly went to somber as he realized that the day I was going was today. Rachelle just have her eyes widened slightly but with no other emotions.
The escort walked over to the boys bowl and picked out a slip, walking to the microphone, she unwrapped it and read out the name clearly.
"Jack McRenese" She called out. Slowly the thirteen year old parted to make way for a boy with black hair, and with a slightly developed build. I recognize him as a regular captain in PE for the middle schoolers, as I heard from Will. I see the shock look registered on his face, as he makes his way down to the stage. I noticed the shocked look of the girl who I stood right next to, as she stares in horror as Jack went up to the stage near the escort.
A pang went in my stomach, as I realized that they are brother and sister. It is now that much harder for me to be able to kill the kid if me and him miraculously make it to the final two.
I never understood why people in the Games betray one their friends, when not even close to the finals yet.
"Here is our tributes that will be representing District 6. Lets give a warm round of applause." The escort said over the microphone, as solemn clapping filled the air, as me and Jack shook hand. I won't be able to ally with him, as unless he shows some sort of skills, he won't get accepted into the Careers. And they themselves might kill him once the Games begin.
But, all to their own. I need to uphold my end of the deal, so my brother won't get abused by my father. He can be with whoever he choses to be, my father should have no say in this, even if it is looked down upon. And, for his freedom, my morals must be sacrificed.
We are lead to the Justice Hall, as all these thoughts are stuck in my head. Fear of dying, the danger to come. Will I even survive? I should not have doubt, as it will distract me from thinking clearly.
I guess that I will just have to find out if I am capable enough...
1st POV- Pauline Whisk- District 9 Female Tribute- Age of 12.
I couldn't sleep last night. Since the thoughts today had me gripping my pillow in fear. If I were chosen, I would not make it far, maybe not even past the beginning. I am afraid of dying. I am terrified.
I wept in my pillow.
I didn't want to get out of my bed. In fear of getting killed once I go outside. The images of the Games are vibrantly stuck in my head. The girl from four, gouging out that poor guy's eyes out. Or when in the Quarter Quell, I saw the boy from my home. District 9, head getting sawed off. Even last year, when the girl from one killed that girl from four, already on the verge of dying. I am sure that I will get a unique death of my own. No one can resist a mayor's daughter in the Games, and if I were picked, everyone's attention will be on me when I die.
Crying in the bed, the door quietly opened and my dad came into my room.
"Honey, breakfast is ready." Dad told me, as he comforted me in the bed. Nodding numbly, I wiped the tears from my eyes as we made our way down to the kitchen. Mom would have been here, but she is working in the office, being the Mayor of District 9, she is very busy, and my dad and I spend most of our time together. Sitting down in a chair, a plate of oatmeal and cornbread on the side rested on the table, with apple juice set near the plate. I took the spoon and began eating the meal.
Dad sat next to me, as we eat in silence. I am a bit okay now, but the thoughts of being reaped still haunts me. No one from District 9 won the Hunger Games, and most of the time at least one of them dies in the bloodbath. Even with the economy slightly improving from what I heard, there is still major poverty around the area. And the minimum work age is twenty, so most of us go to the Games without any skills to fall back on.
My mom and dad told me it would be alright, as I only had one slip, but twelve year old being reaped are not uncommon. They never past the bloodbath, and even when one did, they didn't make it far. Maybe if I skip the Bloodbath, I might survive, but I can't live off the wilderness. I have no training in it. Even though I heard that there are times in the Capitol we would train, I don't think it will be enough time for my to learn all of the survival tricks, and remembering them.
Besides, if I do skip it, I won't have supplies, and the Careers are sure to hunt other tributes down. Even if they don't get me, starvation, weather, or mutts will catch me. Thinking of this scares me even more, as I coughed a bit. Drinking some apple juice, I finished off my bread and oatmeal and washed my plate clean. Before I was going to go back upstairs to change, my dad stopped me.
"Don't be afraid Pauline... I don't think you will get picked at all. Just don't stress yourself out." My dad hugged me, as I held on tight.
We were like this for a few minutes, before my dad let go and went outside. I went to upstairs and into my room, where I am opened my closet and tried to find out what I could wear. They said I have to look nice, but I don't know why we should look nice. It is not a happy time, but rules are rules, and I need to follow them. Picking a baby blue dress, with some black dress shoes and white stockings, I went to the mirror and began brushing my teeth. Minty paste clears my breath from the odor of oat and corn, and I started to style my black hair into pigtails. Finishing all that up, before I went back downstairs, I looked at the mirror. I see myself staring back at me with fearful and curious eyes.
All the good things in my life, I saw at that moment, and I now, really, very, don't want to die. Tears sprung up again as I sobbed in the bathroom. What if I am reaped, what if I am going to the Games, what about my family? Or my friends? Will anyone really miss me? My dad and mom will, my friends will, but who else? I am too young, too unprepared. I just can't die. I know it is selfish to think I should go in the Games, as I am the Mayor's daughter, but I am just not ready. The Games are sick, twisted, leaves a grungy feeling in my stomach.
How could people enjoy watching other people die?
Wiping off the tears in the sink. I put on some perfume and went down to the front of my mansion, where my dad is outside, dressed up in a long sleeved brown shirt, with black pants and brown shoes. Which fits his muscular figure. Holding his hand, we walked away from our yard and into the short walk to the square. The mansion is nearby the Justice Building, where the Reaping will take place. The stage and cameras are all set up, as people from the Capitol makes sure everything is in check. I let go of my dad's hand and hugged him, while I went into the sign up area for the Games. I know that I will have to give my name, gender, and birthday, but the thing that scare me is that they are going to be taking a sample of my blood.
I am terrified of pain, and I am scared of how would they take my blood sample. Is it with a needle, or with a Capitol machine. Or worse, will they use a knife?
The line shortened, as it was the boy in front of me turn to go. He had short and curly black hair, and was telling his information to the Peacekeepers at the table. He then gave his hand to a Peacekeeper with a weird looking machine. I heard a buzz come from it and a click. The Peacekeeper then pressed his finger on the paper, then pulled it back up, revealing a red marking on the paper. Dismissing him, I was up next in the line.
"Name?" The raspy voice of the Peacekeeper asked me.
"Pauline Whisk." I replied, as he wrote my name down on a box in the paper.
"Date of birth?"
"April 30th, 19 ADD."
He wrote my birthday down on paper and grabbed my hand that was on the table. Fear swelled up in me as he held the machine to my finger. I felt a sting and it was pressed down on the paper. It hurts as he brought it back up and dismissing me. A red dot was on my finger as I put my other hand around it to soothe the sting. Walking over to the twelve year old section, I remembered that I still had a chance of being reaped. And now it all became so real now. No longer being in the side, with my father, but with the older teens and kids my age around me, all thinking about their chances of being chosen. With going to be dead in the Games.
I tried to relax myself as more teens filled the square. Nearly everyone have greater chances than I did, all the older kids have more than one, and some twelve year old have to take tesserae. And even if they aren't chosen, their brother or sister might be, and not everyone have the courage to volunteer. At least not in District 9, as we and District 12 are called the Bloodbath Districts, since we have no Victors, not even one. Are the kids over their thinking the same thing as well? Maybe so, I am not the only one as well.
The clock rung, as the funny looking escort came forward. She had too bright of a yellow hair to be called blonde, and her outfit is stylish with the colors of light brown and yellow. Her skin is an unnatural color of pale pink, and her face is full of makeup. She don't really have an excited expression as most other escorts have, but then again, we are one of the Bloodbath Districts, we are not always the cream of the crop.
"Good morning District 9, I will like to say what an honor for me to be here, and be sure to pay attention to the video from the President." She announced over the microphone, as the screen behind her displayed the Capitol seal.
"War, terrible war." It droned, as I watched the film. It went to talk about basically from what I can understand, the disasters from long ago, how Panem rose up among ashes and built a prosperous nation. The Dark Days, the destruction of District 13, and how they blamed us for the loss of lives. So the Capitol made the Hunger Games, twenty four children, a girl and boy from each district, will represent their district, in 'a pageant of honor and sacrifice' as the Victor is showered with praise, a Capitol model holding a sword in his hand.\, and a clip was shown from the first Hunger Games, as Ben Carosso emerged victorious, with bloodied fists raised in the air. It all felt wrong and sickening, as the video ended, and my mom came up and wished us luck for the Games.
It must be depressing to say that for a lot of years and none ever showed much progress. Mom read the Treaty of Treason, which I understood nothing about, and since we didn't have any Victors, she don't have a list, or a single name, to read off of. Passing the microphone back to the escort, she then announced that the actual Reaping will begin.
Terror struck me as she headed to the girls' bowl and dug a hand in. I watched as she took out a slip and walked back to the speaker. Forgetting about what my chances are or no, I am scared to the point where I feel nauseous. My body trembling as she read the name.
"Pauline Whisk."
Crash.
My whole world fell apart.
My dreams, my ambitions, my friends and family. All broken. Everyone turned to me, as I stared blankly around me. Tears come in my eyes, as I just let go. Kneeling down, I began doing what I was doing for the morning, sobbing, weeping, but to a whole new extent.
I was going to die.
A pair of strong hands grabbed me as I was carried to the stage. I couldn't see clearly, as my vision was watery, and my ears were blocked off by my misery. I didn't bother to look at my parents, nor my friends. That will just make them feel worse. Everyone knew I was going to die. Not even surpass the first day.
Death.
The thought makes me want to sob even more, but I realized that I ran out of tears and was still on the floor. Deciding that now I have no choice, I stood up as the escort called the boy's name out.
"Harvey Giles."
The crowd didn't part the way they did for me, as I am not familiar with the name. A boy, with black curly hair, walked silently to the stage. It was that boy in the line. He also had a terrified look on his face, but he wasn't crying like I was. But I know what is going on through his mind, the same as mine.
Death.
The escort looks clearly disappointed with us, as she told the square to applause for the tributes representing our district. Mournful clapping filled my ears, as my throat began to choke up. The escort looking back at us, quickly told us to shake hands.
The boy seemed friendly, at least, from the smile on his face as he helped me up and shook my hand. Could we be allies? I wanted to ask, but I doubt that we can make it far, even with both of us, what is some weaklings from District 9 going up against swords and knives from the Careers. We can't, we would die.
Death.
I sob reached escaped my mouth as we are lead to the Justice Building. The thought repeats all through my mind, my thoughts, my emotions, all based around this word.
I am not ready. I am not prepared. Please, oh please don't let me die! If someone have the ability to save me, please listen. I want to be with my friends, mom, dad, not to the Games. Please!
I can't run away, I can't escape, I am trapped. And I am up for slaughter...
Right... Sorry for the long wait. Nineteen days, twenty depending on where you live, the longest time between updates for this story I have so far. I plan on not repeating that, but school is really taking its toll.
Alright, I decided that there will be no sponsorship thingy. But there are ways to help your tribute out: following, favorite, and most importantly, reviewing. Leave a comment on your thoughts on this chapter, as I am always looking for way to improve my writing. Any questions? Leave them in the review box or PM me and I will answer to as soon as possible.
Lastly, Happy Hunger Games!
