Hey, nice to see you all again! Sorry it's taken the same time again, I didn't manage to update sooner and I feel horrible about that. I had yet another busy week of real life and plus I've been getting all these headaches, which makes me frustrated and leaves me feeling useless so the only thing I feel like doing is going to bed. I wanted to write but I couldn't think of anything and my ears would buzz with a weird ringing noise that just makes me want to panic. I think I'm getting sick. Whatever I post might be crappy, I'm just letting ya know ahead of time. I think I'm having those days that everyone has, so I will just have to try to work through it the best I can. I WILL definitely make Chapter 15 better, though!

Anyways you are all just so patient and I am so grateful for you sticking by this story all this time, or if you left a review. Means the world to me if you read/like/review this story :) You read this story and I read your reviews lol do we have a deal?

Bloodredfirefly-Thanks, glad to have you back again :) Your reviews always cheer me up! Aw shucks, thank YOU for your brilliant reviews, I don't even know what to say after reading them. And thank you for the name generator. I haven't really been writing all that much lately, but I am planning to work on 28th Hunger Games and this story as well. Maybe the other Katoniss will just have to wait for a 2013 release, I dunno

dragonflame-all I can say is LOL after reading your review(s)! They are funny and keep me on the edge of my seat. Cato plushie huh? I think I'll stick to the real Cato thanks though, and cyber cookies lol YUM. I updated asap (without the chapter being too crappy)

-Thanks for the review, hope you're enjoying the story! :)

Jawesome-I don't think your amazing analyzing is crappy! I love reading it and smiling at your love of this story. Aww I'm so sorry about your computer, that must've been awful! :( But at least you got some stories posted. I always thought Tom and Ginny made the perfect couple, not sure why but I just do! I'm also sure you're a great writer. Ooh can I tell you something? :) Kay, before I signed up for fanfic and all, I was wandering around the Tom/Ginny section and found your story. Of course at the time, I didn't know you and I had no idea guests could review, but I was interested and I read your story. It WAS GOOD! LIKE SUPER GOOD! It actually fueled my interest for Tom and Ginny :D Of course after that I moved on to Cato and Katniss but I still love Tom and Ginny! I'm thinking of writing a Tom/Ginny story, of course I'll need to visit Harry Potter again because I've been so caught up in the Hunger Games universe lol :)

Thanks for pointing out the mistakes! I know I said I'll go back and fix 'em, but I just didn't have the time. Maybe I'll go fix them later :D Yeah I really like Cano for some reason and I feel sorry for him because he had such a starved, unloved childhood while his siblings got all the attention. I'm trying hard to portray a unique personality for him. Then again, Cato and Cadis are very different. Cadis is such a pyschopath, it was fun writing for him almost like writing in the POV of a spoiled child. Only more deadly and insane. I know Katniss seems a lot more dependent, but since she's been through some very emotional things she's kind of in her own little cage. Cato is like the only one who she can talk to, the only one who doesn't prejudice against her. It was difficult creating this AU Cato. He had to be sensitive and introverted while also containing some of his original qualities. I wanted to make him realistic and likable but also Cato-like. He's been through some things himself and he needs love too :)Lol, really? I didn't know that! Now I want me some Canadian Sprite.

Aw I'm sorry! I didn't say who was reaped because I wanted to encourage my readers to pay attention to small details (they give much more insight into this story and can tell stories of their own). But you'll find out in this chapter I promise. And thank you thank you so much for everything for all the names for this long great review and for favoriting my story! I'm feeling so pleased right now :) I feel like singing! But I'll write, too. And if you post your story up someday, I'd love to read it.

AbbyMellark21-I didn't say so bluntly in the text because I wanted to encourage readers to pay attention to small details lol but you will find out I promise :)

thepinkmartini-Aamazing analysis! I hope you continue reading and thanks for the great and insightful reviews! I didn't comment specifically because I don't want to give anything away but wow you really got the triplets spot-on! Thanks for reviewing, as always loved it!

Youcan'tbandagethedamage-Thanks for reviewing! I don't think it's weird at all; I actually imagined Cadis kind of scrawny too and definitely not as tall or muscular as the other two. Cadis kind of reminds me of a blond Loki! Ahhh now that reminds me, I gotta watch Thor! But don't worry, I'll write Hunger Games too

HungerFan.1824-You reviewed again! Oh I'm so happy to have you back, welcome welcome! :) I love reading your reviews, they are so sweet and insightful. Thank you for trusting me, I'll try hard to please as many as I can, I think this chapter holds some things people weren't expecting :) Aww, your review was amazing to read and it made me feel a lot happier! In fact all the reviews did Thanks for taking the time to do so!

Catniponfire-Thanks for reviewing and don't worry, I will!

Cato

"What are you doing here?" I ask, throwing the door open. It slams violently against the wall but at this point I don't really care.

Cano doesn't step inside. He's holding a struggling bundle in his arms and of course, scowling his signature scowl.

"Gettin' rid of this groosling shit." He drops the bundle, revealing a small turkey-like bird. I stare at the groosling, the ugliest groosling I've ever seen. Its fleshy webbed feet barely held its fat body of rumpled gray feathers. A bald head perched on top of its scrawny pink neck. A pair of lopsided, beady golden eyes blinked and glared at its surroundings. It squawked loudly when it saw me.

"Quite a darling you got there," I say in my most nasal, sarcastic voice.

Cano rolls his eyes. "I picked him out of all the others just for you."

"I thought you were a blacksmith?" I say right back, rolling my eyes.

Cano's eyes narrow. "I also deliver grooslings to bitches. Not Mockingjays, though, sorry, you'll have to find a prostitute deliverer to do that."

I clench my fists. This was seriously not the time to anger me.

"Cato? Who's at the door?" calls a very sweet voice. Katniss wanders slowly over to me, looking concerned as she saw Cano. "Oh! Hello..."

"Hello, Mockingjay," Cano snaps in a very arrogant voice.

Awkward silence follows. Cano is glowering viciously at Katniss, who wouldn't glance up from her feet. I decide to end the silence.

"Katniss, this is my brother Cano," I say as Cano's scowl turns to me, "I'm sure the displeasure is all mine, though." I couldn't resist adding.

To my surprise, Katniss nods. "I know who he is."

"You do?" I say, dropping my sarcastic tone at once.

"We've met," replies Cano, "If you remember correctly, you sent the wench to take care of your problems."

"When did I ever do so?!"

"Are you calling me a liar Cato?"

"Are you calling me a liar, Cano?"

"I'm way too sophisticated to be engaged in a childish conflict," Cano answers, turning up his nose. "I do, however, rememember conversing with a certain Mockingjay who walked up to my shop. Let's just say it was quite an encounter. Niether of us understood the other."

I raise my eyebrows and turn to look at Katniss, who is biting her lip. I didn't know she had conversed Cano before, let alone walked into his shop. I never go there myself if not necessary. I haven't for years.

"After I just had my wing amputated," Katniss says quietly, looking from Cano to me, "I took a stroll in the village and I met somebody who mentioned that Cano lived nearby. Well, it was only a short time after the awful operation and I was upset, so I wanted to do something...anything...somebody to blame. Not myself and definitely not you; you saved me too many times. So I went to talk to your brother." She turns to Cano now. "And I'm sorry for acting like a child and a fool."

Cano doesn't stop scowling (because he is Cano) but just grunts. However after Katniss lowers her gaze again, I see him give the faintest of nods.

We are once again thrown into a moment of awkward silence before I give a little cough. "Thank you for the groosling," I say to Cano, "We wanted a groosling." In other words, I'm telling him I know he didn't come all the way up here to deliver a groosling to me. Something else had to be behind this.

Cano hesitates a little before he speaks. "You're, uh, welcome." He suddenly looks rather uncomfortable. Whatever it is, it must affect the both of us because there is no way he would do something for me.

I wait for him to continue, but he just shrugs. "I have better things to do," he resumes his arrogant tone, "I have no more time to waste with you."

"Visit more often," I say, more to myself than him.

I am closing the door good riddance to him when he suddenly whips around. His green and blue eyes sparkle with a strange intensity. "And remember, the residence sometimes goes boom when wickedness wants it to." With that he was off.

I shut the door, pondering over what he'd just said. It sounded like a mystery more than a riddle but nonetheless, a mystery to solve. And I don't like mysteries I can't understand how to solve.

Katniss and I both look at the groosling, which was now nipping away at a palm-leafed plant sitting near the entryway. Silently I go over and easily scoop it up into my arms. The groosling protests with loud squawks at first but calms down once my fingers stroke its huge bald head.

"Quite the charmer, you are," says Katniss with no hint of sarcasm whatsoever in her voice. She stares at the groosling with a hungry look and that's when I remember that Mockingjay ancestors used to hunt and feast on grooslings before the humans took the grooslings for pets. Even though Mockingjays are considered pets by some, the grooslings got the better end of the deal. They are not intelligent enough to communicate with humans as Mockingjays are and certainly not desirable, so they are usually given to children as companions. They're fed and taken care of and nobody thinks about eating them.

I can understand a bit of Katniss's contempt, but having ordered a groosling to entertain her I think she should give it a chance rather than devour it, which by the look on her face is something she would like to do.

"So, Katniss," I say, cheerily as I could because I hadn't forgotten the situation we're still in, "What shall we name the little groosling? I was thinking about Diasco or Rutabaga, what do you think?" Maybe a cute name would take her mind off eating the groosling and in time, the groosling would help her forget a little of the Mockingjay Games.

"I was thinking of Yam or Yum," Katniss mumbles, eyes locked on the groosling I still held. It was blinking its little eyes at Katniss as if it sensed that she was a Mockingjay. Pretty clever for a groosling if you ask me.

In the end I decided to name him Buttercup. Katniss agreed with every one of my suggestions, never taking her eyes off Buttercup for one second.

Katniss

I haven't tasted groosling in forever. I can almost feel the grease drip down my face and relish the sweet tender meat on my tongue. I must be an animal right now; my primitive instincts are dominant as of this moment. Maybe Peeta was right after all. Maybe primitive instincts are the only instincts you can trust. The others just let you down.

I can cry no tears. There is no more liquid inside me-an emotionless bucket of emotions. I wish I didn't have any emotions. There is no use for anything as of now. If I didn't have any emotions, I wouldn't feel. And if I didn't feel I wouldn't be hurt.

I'm thinking so unintelligently for a Mockingjay right now. But what else am I supposed to do? The world is out to get me. In two days I'm to do something disgraceful with a complete stranger. As if I haven't given enough of me, I'm supposed to spare another part for the half-human half-Mockingjay I am supposed to breed. An absolute outrage, a hybrid. This goes against everything I have ever been taught and everything I have ever known. Mixing has never turned out well for neither the Mockingjay nor the human. Except for Haymitch Abernathy, but he's the only one so that just proves my point even further. The Capitol just wants us to die of hate or heartbreak. All day long it's games, games, games. And we are no more than pawns.

I stop wanting Buttercup on a plate. Maybe Cato got a replacement for me. But why would he? He seems to care about me and besides, the Reaping was just today. Deliveries didn't come that quickly. Cato probably got him for whoknowshowmuch human money for me and here I am just wanting meat like a wild huntress with no compassion. But for once, can I be the one to blame?

I break down almost immediately after the Reaping. This was all too much, plus Cano's arrival reminded me that I am only a one-wing Mockingjay. I've lost half my honor and I'm going to lose the rest by having another hybrid that should have never happened. I would rather die out as a species than to mix with evil.

Would I, really? Perhaps I am thinking too selfishly. I do not want to end up committing suicide. I like honor but I like living even more. Ever since I was born I'd been hiding from humans. My life completely changed after I was captured. All it was hiding from the humans and thinking I am better than them. Maybe it was, maybe it was not but I am sick of being pushed around. Sick of playing the damsel in distress, sick of being let down.

I pull myself away from Cato's warm, enduring embrace. His gaze meets mine with surprise (and hurt?) but I remain as emotionless as possible. "I'm not going to let this break me." My voice is shaking just as much as I am on the inside. Am I really thinking what I am thinking? "I won't let them hurt me anymore."

Cato looks concerned.

"I will go to the Capitol. I will have the baby."

"Katniss..." His voice is steady, but I take it as a plea. "You are way too-"

"I can't not go...I know what they can do...what they are capable of..." If I refuse, they will probably murder everyone I know and care about. Including Cato. "But I won't let them break me. I'll hold myself together. I'll show them that they're wrong. That I'm stronger than they think I am. I know who I am. They don't. I won't let this kill me. I'll live through it."

"And come back." His whispery voice is hoarse. It's begging. Not to leave him. I don't want to leave him. The very thought of it upsets me so.

"And I'll come back."

I had no idea what I just said.

Cato

I am such a liar. I promised myself that I would never let anything hurt Katniss ever again but here I am dead wrong. I cannot tear my eyes away from Katniss as she prepares to board the train, gripping onto her little suitcase for support. The blank look in her eyes is enough to engulf me in a flood of misery. Those eyes used to be alive, full of emotion and dare I say it...laughter. Now the light has gone out. Now they look dead.

I know there's still something in there. A spark of light flickers inside her beautiful body, extinguishing itself at times but somehow always manages to flutter back. I don't know if I can say the same for me.

I swore to myself I'd never grow close to another living being, never care. Never fall in love. Love was what broke me in the first place. I didn't want to get hurt again. To be weak. The agony of love is traumatizing. I wasn't sure if this was love, but I can find no other explanation as to why I've been happy these past months. I don't know why I suddenly became myself again, and then I realize, it was the satisfication of taking care of another that completes me. I'm fond of her, I adore her kindness, I enjoy her companionship. Being with her takes me not to joy but to the point of utter bliss. I care about her. I have affections for her. She is exactly what I needed to save me from myself.

On the other hand, feelings can be astounding. I realized something. I wasn't suffering those years because of love; I was suffering out of fear. Fear of loosing more people I cared about. I was afraid of the world, of myself. I didn't see the purpose of life when risks were faced everyday. But now I see. You take risks because it is a part of life and you protect your loved ones from harm. That in itself is a purpose well worth living for. You live for others, maybe just one special other, and they for you. Love is not for just any two people, it's for two people who have a connection. Love (and a bit of curiosity and lust) was what kept this going. I don't fear feelings and affection, passion and caring anymore. Katniss has taught me that love is more powerful than fear.

And of course on this very day I realize I love her she is to be taken from me. I suppose that if you do not appreciate a blessing for all it is worth you will lose it someday. But I will never let Katniss go. I may have not realized it all before, but now that I have I will fight for what is mine...ours. Snow will not get away with this, I'll make sure of that. I may have to let Katniss go for now so they don't hurt her, but I will save her from the Capitol's cruel clutches. Even if it takes me all my life.

Before Katniss steps onboard the train, I pull her into me and give her a deep kiss on the lips. It is fueled by passion and all the things I have kept inside, which I just let loose onto those pair of soft pink lips like a fresh rose in full blossom. Through the kiss I let Katniss know that she doesn't belong to anybody, doesn't have any bond with anybody except me. And she seems to agree. We kiss and kiss and kiss and kiss and kiss and kiss until a Peacekeeper has to pry us apart.

And with one last glance back, Katniss boards the train. I watch her face getting smaller and smaller until I can't see her in reality anymore. But the image of her face remains in my mind, down to the very last curve of her jaw.

I should have told I loved her, but maybe it is too late now.

Katniss

I think I'm drowning in something totally surreal. To ignore all the feelings of pain and anger and shame inside me, all I have to do is to think about that kiss Cato gave me in the train station. It may have just been any little lusty kiss, but to me it meant so much more.

I miss Cato so much. I've allowed myself to get close to him, to have feelings for him, even maybe to love him. And I certainly gave up a lot for him. It's all great, but in the end, is this really something else? I can't love him can I? I mean it feels like I do, but in this world it's not like it can ever become of importance. I'm certain Cato cares about me but after I have the baby it is my instinct to take care of it and raise it. The man I am paired with will probably want to raise it too, maybe not, but the Capitol would surely interfere. And I must do my duty of protecting my child. A sudden thought strikes me. What if I take my child and run away? Somewhere far, far away, where they won't find us? And Cato can come along too, and...maybe not. It wouldn't be his child. He'd be kind, but it just wouldn't be the same. Besides, the child would be half-human. Walls of prejudice have been torn down inside me, but I am still not sure I can get used to the idea of protecting a child that is half-human. It'd need wings to help it survive in the wild, and it would be a miracle if it had a feather. And Cato is a human who is rather not fit to live in the wild. He's trained in weaponry, but can he find food and shelter? Can he survive the predators and keep himself sane?

I want to revolt. This is all so, so wrong, what they're making me do, what they're putting us through. I feel so useless and weak how I can barely do anything about it without getting into trouble. I don't want trouble. I just don't want to be a puppet anymore.

It might be best if I have the baby. Then after all this is over I can go back to Cato and forget about all this because I'm assuming the Capitol will care for the baby anyways. Who am I kidding? They might ensure the baby a healthy growth, but after it grows up it'll just have to reproduce. It'll also be entered into the Reaping or worse, automatically assigned a partner.

It's a tough job, life. It's also a tough job listening to Effie Trinket talk about "big, big days". I tell her that pearls don't turn into diamonds, and coals definitely don't make pearls. She was in tears when I glowered at her for staring at my wing stump.

"Mockingjays aren't very nice even for wild animals!" she wails stupidly.

Screw Effie Trinket. Think about Cato instead.

No, I definitely can't love Cato. Even if I do, I can't think about it. As painful as it is, I have to forget about him. Even if that breaks me completely. But no, I won't be broken. I plan to stay strong. Don't think about it!

What else can I think about? I wonder as I'm escorted back into the Tribute Building. I'm to meet with my stylist and prep team to 'doll me up' again, then to have a quick dinenr and then do the deed tonight.

The prep team greets me enthusiastically and then gets right to work. I'm scrubbed and pluckered and cleaned until I feel like a plucked bird, ready for roasting.

My reflection stares back at me like the empty glass it is as Venia, Flavius, and Octavia chatter away. They curl my hair into long waves falling down my back, each strand rolled and perfect after being sprayed by a million superficial liquids. My nails are done until they are shiny and pearly as glass. Flame designs are added to them, but I feel no fire within me. My face turns unrecognizable. It was airbrushed and brushed until my skin looked too perfect to be real. My eyes were smoldered with a smoky dark-eyeshadow look. Flavius added glitter and eyeliner wing tips for effect. My lips are this glob of sticky red seduction that looks as thick as oatmeal pudding. The prep team beams and congratulates me but I stay silent other than thanking them very quietly a couple times.

Cinna comes in and then they leave. I would be happy to see him if not for this circumstance. He seems to understand, as he makes no attempt at conversation other than a polite greeting. He brings over a bundle of clothing to me. At first I thought I would have my choice but then I am dismayed upon the realization that this is all one outfit. I'm grateful, though. Cinna doesn't help me put it on. Instead, he excuses himself from the room as I dress.

I feel revolting as I force myself into the padded cream bra and matching panties, which barely cover anything. The pantyhose fabric clings and squeezes my legs in an uncomfortable way. The heels are so high they should be illegal. Lastly I slip on a short, strapless dress the color of the sky. It hugs my body and feels like soft, shimmering mist, which I suppose I would've loved if only the circumstances were different. There is only one hole since I only have one wing. I swallow the lump in my throat. If I had two, I could probably bust out of here.

I don't look at myself in the mirror. I'm too disgusting tonight. I feel like a piece of meat being thrown to the dogs. I don't even know who I'm supposed to mate with. Mate. Even thinking of the word makes me nauseous.

I'm all finished dressing and I'm just thinking of grabbing some arrows and taking out as many Peacekeepers as I can when the door opens and Cinna enters the room. I see the sympathy in his eyes but there is nothing that can comfort me tonight.

"You're alright, Katniss?" He asks, sitting down on the glittering midnight-blue sofa across from me.

I bury my shoulders into the sofa. "You didn't need to ask that question, Cinna. You know the answer."

"Forgive me," Cinna says in a gentle tone, "I am being rash and thoughtless. You're going through a lot tonight."

I frown. Cinna means no harm. He is only trying to help. "I just wish things were less complicated." I kick off my heels. They land with soft thumps on the plush red carpet.

"Ah, don't we all?" Cinna bends forwards and scoops up the heels. He holds them out to me, but I don't take them.

"I'll just go barefoot. What's the difference? I'm just being turned into another prostitute like most of the Mockingjays before me."

"I wouldn't be so harsh on yourself Katniss," Cinna says quietly, rather thoughtfully. "You have nothing in common with a prostitute. You are your own Mockingjay."

"But soon I'll bear a hybrid," I groan into a pillow. Tonight, I am not myself.

"There is nothing wrong with a hybrid simply because it's a hybrid," says Cinna gently, "Haymitch Abernathy is a good man and friend. As a matter of fact, he was supposed to be your mentor this evening."

"What's a mentor?"

"Someone who trains and supports you. His job is to give you advice and explain what to do if you were to be stuck in a dire situation."

"But he's not here."

"True, he had some family matters to attend to and couldn't make it. That is why I have stepped in his place."

"You, Cinna? You're going to be my mentor?"

"I apologize for the inconvenience, Katniss. I'll only be a short awhile-"

"No, I didn't mean it like that. The situation is just...well, surprising. But okay. I don't mind. Go on. Do your job."

"Alright, well, the first thing to remember is to be on your best behavior tonight. I know that will be difficult but try to control your emotions. The less emotions you show, the less painful it will be for you."

"That's good because I've already decided I'm not going to show much emotion," I say.

"The second thing to remember is to talk to your...human. Get to know them before things happen."

I open my mouth to protest but Cinna interrupts me. "I'm sorry, Katniss. I know this is probably even more difficult for you, but try to keep in mind that humans are less hostile when they are interacting with familiarity. It is a part of our pyschology. Get to know him a little bit and tell him briefly about yourself. This will establish in his mind that you are another individual instead of an item."

I nod. My throat has begun to tremble.

"And the last and most important thing: keep your head. Act rationally. I know you are a fiery, lively soul Katniss, and I am sorry to degrade you. But you must think before you act, because here even the smallest defiance can bring serious consequences. And the goal for all of us is to get you out alive. I promise this will not go on forever."

I was not expecting this from him. "How do you know all this?" I blurt without thinking.

He smiles a watery smile, almost sad. "I only wish I can let you know sooner," he says in a kind tone, "I wish I could let you know now. But you must be told later for your own good. I am truly sorry, Katniss." He stands up. "But I know you're a strong girl. I'm betting you can make it through this. Go out there and show the rest of them I am right."

I stand up as well. "Thank you Cinna, for your advice and your help. I didn't think it was possible, but you made me feel better...even if it was just the tiniest bit, I feel better than I first did. Thank you."

Cinna's eyes glitter. "You are welcome Katniss." Then he puts three fingers on his lips and raises them to me. A gesture of friendship and farewell. I make the gesture back to him. He smiles. And then he walks out of the room. It's just me now.

Katniss

It's hard getting back into those dangerous heels again and strutting off to dinner, but I do it for Cinna. And Cato. I'd never thought I'd want to get back to a human this badly. Funny how fate works.

I sit down at an elegantly clad table set for one. Oh, well I suppose they want me to spend some time for myself. I'm served a good-sized meal by young women and men dressed in white. They kept the glasses and plates full, even the ones I hadn't touched.

The meal is rather extravagant. Deviled grouse eggs resting on palm leaves, slices of pale purple melon, roast crown and venison, cheese melting into sweet blue grapes, scallops dipped in black caviar, and cream potatos and olive sauce stuffed inside baked apple. A fountain of sparkling wine decorates one side. I refuse to touch it. I don't eat that much for the fear of loosing my appetite.

Halfway through the meal, the top at the end of the table splits open and a TV screen rises out. I'm reminded of Cato's living room because his TV had the same feature. Thinking of him is almost an ache, so I try and forget it as the blank screen suddenly plays an interview taking place in the middle of the City Circle.

The interview starts off with a man hopping onstage. He has a very strange outer appearance, for his eyebrows, lips, and hair are dyed a shade of deep blue. He announces himself as Caesar Flickerman and then proceeds to one of the two black armchairs set up onstage. He must be popular in the Capitol. They're going wild for him, screaming and cheering and applauding.

He has magnificent powers, this man. With one easy sweep of his hand he manages to silence the crowd. Most of them, anyways. They go wild again the moment he announces he's going to reveal the match for Katniss Everdeen.

I'm leaning forwards, hanging onto every word. My breathe comes out short and heavy. My stomach does a flipflop as the crowd goes silent again. We're waiting. Anticipating.

Waiting.

You could hear a pin drop in the stadium now.

You could hear peolpe breathing.

Someone muttered, "I know it's me, it's me, it just has to be..."

I hope it isn't him.

Drum roll.

"And the lucky match for the lovely Mockingjay Katniss Everdeen iiiiiiiiiiisss..." Caesar pauses dramatically, then leaps out of his chair applauding. "THE CAPITOL'S VERY OWN GAMEMAKER, OUR ONE AND ONLY, SENECA CRANE!"

You could hear many groans of disappointment among the thundering audience. They're stomping their feet, screaming out names, clapping their hands raw as a man dressed in a red jacket, black vest, and white pants comes onto the stage smiling. He waves triumphantly at the crowd, and my first impression above all of him is that he appears very confident.

I suppose that's not a bad thing, I thought as I inspect him. He has slicked-back raven hair, a pale, pointed jaw, and deep-set blue eyes the color of ice, even more piercing and intense than Cato's. He is actually very good-looking, but what captivates me the most is his beard. It's set in an interesting, intricate design and I can't stop looking at it. I know he wasn't born with a beard like it; he must've had it altered in the Capitol. Figures. He's probably a gazillionaire who spends all his time gambling. Alright, Katniss, observe before you judge.

It takes Caesar awhile to get the audience to calm down. Once the noise dies, Seneca settles down on the other armchair and the interview begins. Throughout it he is very composed and answers the questions in a very calm manner. From the way he and Caesar are interacting, one would think they were old friends. They probably are. I notice that every once in awhile Seneca would turn towards the audience and wink. Then a few women in the audience fainted. If circumstances were different, this would have made me laugh.

I pay special close attention when Caesar asks Seneca if he purposefully signed up for the Mockingjay Games.

"Oh, I most certainly did," Seneca replies, winking at the audience again, "I am Head Gamemaker, as you all know, and the conservation of a beautiful species is of upmost importance to me. It is my honor that I am chosen, and I will do my duties respectfully for our wonderful nation." Somebody wolf whistles. The crowd starts cheering again. The interview ends. The TV shuts itself off and disappears into the table once again.

A few of the serves come and clear away the table. I let myself sink deep into my thoughts. So this Seneca is a Gamemaker, not just any but the Head Gamemaker. I'll bet he had his say in the Mockingjay Games. In fact, I bet he signed up just so he could sleep with a helpless Mockingjay. He can certainly appear charming though. That's why the Capitol seems to love him. He's the highest of the high-class. But what hides beneath his good looks and silver tongue?

A server hands me a folder. It's a little resume of Seneca Crane. How thoughtful.

From the resume I learn that he is 26. Not too far away from my own age. He is a part of the Capitol Government (Head Gamemaker) as well as a musician and fashion designer. He's directed a few films (gooey, unrealistic Capitol romance that nobody wants to be near). He's actually done pretty well for himself, and maybe I wouldn't detest him as much if he didn't come up with the Mockingjay Games as a way of screwing innocent Mockingjays. It doesn't matter though. Now that I've been dolled up, have eaten and watched the interview, I am to be taken to his chambers.

They're not exactly his chambers. We are assigned a special room right in this very Tribute Building. The penthouse. Nobody is to disturb us, less punishable by death.

I am escorted by that horrific shallow woman Effie Trinket again. Her heels click in tune to mine as she leads me down the hallway and past multiple closed doors. "This is a big, big night," she says. I look at her. She seems to have forgotten all about the pearls thing, and for that I am grateful. However, walking behind her and her 2-foot wig can be hazardous because I can't see where I'm going.

Effie beams at me in the elevator. "Just look, a Mockingjay all grown up and doing things for her country. How pleased Cato would be with you!"

That was more than I could take. Thinking about Cato is the last thing I want to do right now. As if I could be in anymore pain.

The elevator comes to a stop with a ding and Effie leads me out into a wider hallway, decorated more lavishly with lights and frescoes. My heels sink into the plush brown carpet as I follow her down the hall. We stop outside a pair of double doors.

"Now, remember Katniss, this is your big moment! So shine like a star and do your best, and you will be rewarded with the generosity of the Capitol. Oh, isn't this exciting?! You're so lucky! I wish you many years of happiness with you and your little bundle of joy!"

Effie's smile is so rapturing that I couldn't help but give a small one back. She has good intentions, even if she has no idea what she's talking about. And that's my last thought as Effie opens the door and pushes me inside, the doors closing behind me.

I stand inside the dark room, my fingers fumbling the walls for a light. They end disappointed. But through the darkness I can see a shape of a large canopy bed. Slowly, I make my way towards it, every nerve and vein in me screaming to run. But if I do, Cato and me could be in a big trouble.

There is a figure lying on the bed. I don't need to think twice to figure out who it is. Once he notices my presence, he draws himself up into a sitting position. I notice something glinting in the dark. His teeth.

"You must be the lovely Katniss Everdeen. I have long wanted to meet you." His voice is soft, husky and smooth. Maybe since we're in the dark, I can pretend he is Cato. Maybe that will just be enough to save my sanity.

"Y-you too," I say, standing there awkwardly next to the bed.

"You seem a bit cold, dear. Why don't you come and join me? There is room enough for two." I swear I can hear the smile in his voice even though I can't see it.

My hand reaches for the covers but his voice stops me again. "Of course you'll have to remove your dress, there's simply not enough room for it."

I try not to growl as I slip off the gauzy, shimmering blue silk. It falls onto the floor, forgotten.

"There now, you may come in."

I lift the covers and slowly slip in, my body trembling but not from cold. I ignore the urge to scream as he turns and faces me. A pair of hands caress my shoulders, making me grit my teeth.

We make small talk for awhile. He gives me compliments and I answer his questions.

"Your beauty has quite captivated me, Katniss."

I freeze, not knowing what to say. "Er, thank you. A striking man such as yourself should have no problems getting women, though. Why settle on me?"

I couldn't resist bursting out. Great.

He chuckles, fingers running through my hair. "Why not you? You are the most beautiful I have ever seen. Human women envy and get surgery but whatever they do it cannot compare to the beauty of Mockingjays."

I'm about to reply when he adds, "I must turn on the light so I can see you better."

CLICK.

My eyes are temporarily blinded as a bright white light blinks on over the room. I see Seneca's face, devilishly handsome as ever, smiling down at mine. Those frosty blue eyes rake over my cleavage and up my upper body until their gaze rests on my wings. I see the awe, pleased expression vanish as they take in my wings.

I frown. Was something wrong with my wings? Why is he scowling at them? I'm not trying to brag, but people don't usually frown at my wings.

And why is he getting out of bed? And who's he dialing on his hologram phone?

"Yes, yes, this is Seneca. I wish to speak to the President, please. It is urgent."

He ignores my puzzled stare.

"Uh huh, uh huh. Hello yourself, President Snow."

My blood runs cold.

"Yes, as a matter of fact, I'm afraid so. I believe I was promised a Mockingjay? Mmm. Well, yes, yes, of course. My most sincere apologies, but I cannot fulfill the task with her. She is not a complete Mockingjay, for she only has but one wing. There will be no reproduction between us."

I'm sorry if it was horribly cliche and cheesy and too soft for them. After a week of emotions swelling up inside me (especially anger for no apparent reason, not at you but just in general directed towards the world) I was like a bubble ready to burst. I've been spending time reading some Movie Fanfics, collecting ideas for another Catoniss Fanfic (which shall be out soon), and reading Shakespeare. That is probably why this chapter is so affectionate and full of reflection. It's also probably not very good and filled with mistakes, which I am happy if you will point them out so I may improve next chapter.

Ooh fun fact, I'm mainly a poem writer so that's why I sometimes struggle a bit with this. I rely heavily on emotions but I'm trying to balance the emotions and action in my scenes. I've got action and emotion chapters but I'm going to try to combine the two next time. And sometimes, to confess actually, it can get difficult writing for Cato because I've never studied guy pyschology, which isn't as simple as it seems.

But nonetheless, may I beg for your opinions? What do you think? What of Cato's realizations? Is he too late? What will happen now? Were you expecting Katniss's match to be Seneca Crane? If not, who were you expecting? And don't worry, MOI shall protect Katniss from the evil Capitol (at least of right now). MOI won't let Katniss get pregnant with Capitol man! (Even if I have always viewed Seneca Crane as a more of a good guy. His appearance is based on the movie because it's interesting, but this story itself is based more on the book. The movie was okay, but as with Harry Potter I prefer the books much, much more)

Oh, and I also need to share something with you guys. When I was writing this story, I was originally going to have a much crueler Cato. The original idea was that he rapes Katniss on her first day but she eventually stops hating him. I'm really glad I changed my mind though, although I do plan on working in a darker Cato in another Catoniss story.

Also, awesome readers and reviewers, how long do you think I should make this? I have a couple other ideas of where to lead this and I have a solid destination in mind, but I'm wondering how much more you'd like to read. I was thinking of 30 chapters, maybe less, maybe more, I'm not sure. What do you think? And which Hunger Game characters would you like to see more of in the story? So far I have Peeta, Gale, Glimmer, Clove, Marvel, Cashmere, Beetee, Gloss, Finnick, and Annie. I intend to show a few more, but tell me which character is your favorite so far and why. Also do you like Cadis, Peeta, Finnick, etc. POV's or solely Cato and Katniss's?

I thought you guys had some great ideas for surnames but while reading Shakespeare I fell in love with the name Aufidius. Personally I think it goes with Cato so well and it's also a Roman name. By the way, did you know that one of the characters in one of Shakespeare's plays is named Cato? I also found Brutus, Enobaria, Cinna, Lavinia, Octavia, and Flavius! We all get inspiration from Shakespeare lol.

Again I am sorry for the really long wait. I was going to update much sooner but everything kept on getting in the way. I'm also tired of this stupid computer threatening to erase everything I write every 2 seconds (because it automatically logs me out for some reason every 15 min.) Sorry, I just needed to vent about that. For the next chapter I cannot gurantee when it will arrive as I wish not to disappoint you again. But don't worry about it too much because I'm not one to update like every month; I try to update at least once every week :) And in the meantime my other Catoniss story is coming soon and you can also check out the 28th Hunger Games, a Hunger Games story composed of my OC'S. Love you all and thank you so much for being so patient!

Happy (early) Thanksgiving by the way!