Cassius POV

"You look stunning!" My stylist chirped. I had forgotten her name already. She was of little importance to me, so why should I bother to remember her?

She turned me to the mirror. She was right, of course, I did look stunning. But, then again, when did I not? She had outfitted me with Roman style bronze armor. The chest plate molded perfectly around my torso, showing off all of the muscles I had. The metal skirt? Not the best part. But it would be better than what Cato and the District Twelve girl. I wonder what they'll be this year, skimpy coal miners or coal. Whatever it is, I'll look better in my man skirt.

My stylist is putting the final touches on my outfit. She is defiantly a Capitol freak. Her green hair is swirled like a dollop of cream on top of her head. Her skin is dyed orange and her skin is encrusted with jewels. She places a winged crown on top of my head and fastens a heavy bronze chain mail cape to my shoulders.

Tillie knocks on the door. "It's time to go to your chariot! Clove is waiting for you." She leads me down a labyrinth of corridors the open to a large warehouse like room lined with chariots. Clove stands next to the second one in from the right. Her armor is just like mine, a perfect match. The girl she is talking to, District One, is wearing an insane amount of feathers and a glittery dress that reflects way too much light. The male tribute from One is eyeing Clove while she talks. My Clove.

In a few strides, I am across the room, not looking at any of the other tributes lined up against their own chariots. I wrap my arm protectively around her tiny waist. The girl from District One meets my eyes with her green ones and she flashes me a smile with perfect white teeth. I can't help but notice her glitter covered chest puff up a little when I flash her a sly grin of my own.

"What are you looking at, District One?" I ask turning my attention to the boy standing next to her. I pulled my Clove closer to me.

"Just admiring the wonderful job your stylists did. I wish I had your armor over my pink feathers."

I scoffed. "At least we aren't coal miners or lumber jacks." The group laughs.

"Of course! So, are we going to talk about the alliance this year?" District One shifts the conversation.

"I've decided that we aren't having one this year." I want to win this one on my own. Allying myself with them would just slow me down.

The boy looks surprised. "But there's always a Career pack! Every year."

"Times are changing, of course. It's the seventy fourth time we've done this. Isn't it getting a little old?"

"Of course." The boy turns around and helps the girl get into the chariot. I sweep Clove off her feet and set her down gently into the chariot. I swoop in and kiss her on the cheek. She smiles to herself.

District One's chariot begins to roll out, and mine follows after. I am met by adoring fans, blowing kisses and throwing flowers. I stare straight ahead, my arm wrapped around Clove. She smiles and waves at the fans. Suddenly, the fans are louder and louder. Nonchalantly, I turned my face to the monitor, expecting to see my face blown up on the screen. But instead, I see District Twelve. The tributes on fire have captured the hearts of the Capitol. Cato has stolen my honor once again.

I can't wait for the games to begin.