Cole Silverback
She's calling out to me. She's screaming my name as water rushes into her lungs. I try to reach her, but the moment I try to save her…She's gone. Lost to the ocean that she once called home. I shout, but soon my lungs fill up too. I struggle to fight against the raging water as it tries to drag me to its core. My attempts don't work though, and soon I dissolve into the cold grip of the ocean.
I wake up to the smell of slightly burning fish. Honestly, I'm amazed at my own skill of recognizing it's probably being charred a little too much. This shouldn't be too much of a surprise though, my dad's never been the best cook .I can't help but smile at the thought of my dad rushing around the kitchen trying to prepare breakfast. I hoist myself off my bed and grab some simple clothes for Reapings. I rush downstairs and run right into Nile Keeler, my very oblivious best friend, on the bottom step. "Nile's! Don't sneak up on me man," He flashes me his signature toothy grin, nods, and goes to sit down at the table.
As I sit down next to him, my dad can't help but comment, "You know Nile's, you spend so much time here, I'm thinking you should probably just start paying me rent." I can't help but laugh as Nile's quickly stuffs food in his mouth to keep himself from having to answer. I take a sneak peek at my dad to see if he has noticed Nile's behavior, but I notice a sad glint in his eyes. I turn away from him and start on eating the fish. I guess not even a good laugh could take away the overwhelming fear of the Reapings.
Before Nile's and I head to the Reapings, we make a pit stop at the graveyard. I manage my way through the sea of names that beg to be remembered. I pass the tribute yard, the place where all the tributes are buried. However, who I need to visit is not there. Instead I stop at a small limestone rock, something I remember my father paying a fortune for. I kneel beside it and brush away the dust.
Cape Silverback
Beloved Son and Brother
Gone But Not Forgotten
"We miss you buddy," I can't help but whisper to my brother. I always come here once a year, on reaping day. Even though it's been four years, Cape's death has left a tear in my heart. A funny little boy, taken by pollution infected fish. Caused by the Capitol's factories in almost every district. I remember how small he became during his final days, as he slowly withered away. I can remember how mom left soon after Cape's death, another way our family broke.
I can feel a gentle hand on my shoulder, "Come on Cole, Reapings will be starting soon". I gather my strength and I stand up, and then I slowly start my way to the District square.
Marina Mallette
"Music doesn't save your soul, but it makes your soul worth saving"
Lily dodges my first punch, which I expected. However she did not anticipate the punch that would land her flat on her back.
"Ok Marina, we all know you're great, now please stop using me as a punching bag and get changed." I roll my eyes and grab my outfit from my locker. This year, my mother finally let me choose what to wear, considering this is my "lucky" year. Like volunteering is such a great thing to do. Don't get me wrong. I love the thrill of knocking an opponent flat on their butt, but I love the rush of singing more. My band, The Aquatic Devils, has become quite a sensation around town, of being a slight failure. Yet, bringing music back into style has become one of my personal goals. Alas, my mom thinks making me a Victor will be more useful. I guess the money wouldn't hurt, my family isn't really part of the richer side of District 4.
After changing, Lily gives me a whistle, "Look at you, all grown up Marina". Before I can reply, I hear the distinguishable voice of my boyfriend, Liam.
"Babe! You missed practice today"
"I know, mom sent me straight here and made sure I worked a little more on my trident skills".
After I mention my mom, Liam drops his joking attitude, "Please, you don't have to do this Marina. The band needs you. I need you." I take his hand and give him a quick kiss.
"I'm not doing this just for my mom, I'm doing this for us." Liam gives me an understanding nod and hugs me tightly. I grab his hand and head outside, ready for just about anything.
I never liked how crowded I feel in the age section groups, but today it almost feels comforting. I glimpse over at the male section, wondering who will be joining me in the arena. Panic suddenly starts to trickle into me veins, and I let my eyes wander over to where the other citizens are located. I find my mother, and she gives me a reassuring smile. Swiftly all the panic leaves and I'm back to being myself again. Then the Reaping officially starts.