The First Annual Hunger Games

by Callidora Medea

Following the Dark Days, the President of Panem announces the beginning of the Hunger Games. District 4 girl, Cass, District 1 girl, Silver, and District 7 girl, Oak, are all thrown into the turmoil that is the first Hunger Games, and must choose their alliances; decisions that can mean life or death in the arena. All intend to win. But there can be only one victor.

23. Chapter 23- In the Catacombs

Chapter 23.- Silver Bellcreek

The nerves are getting to me. I ordered some bread from the food machine in my room, and I'm pulling fluffy bits off and eating them as I pace the room. I know I'll be okay, but I'm scared anyway. In half an hour the hovercraft will be here to get me, and Kensa too. Despite last night's enthusiasm, I'm terrified now. Glow comes in and I jump. "Hey, calm down, you'll be fine. We're allies, remember?" he says. I nod. "We'll both be fine, don't you worry." Cordia follows him in. "You two are the shining diamonds of the Capitol, don't you worry! And I'll get you some sponsors lined up, and you'll be fine." She actually has some twinkly tears in the corners of her eyes. Then she hurries us out. The hovercraft comes and gets me and Kensa. A lady on the hovercraft implants a chip in my arm. I glance at the clock on the wall. 9:20. Forty minutes to go.

We end up in the catacombs under the arena. Kensa gives me the clothes I'm going to be wearing in the arena. "It's good material. It'll keep you warm at night. From the looks of it you'll be in for some chilly nights," Kensa says. The outfit consists of a tight black shirt, short sleeved, a forest green coat that comes to my hips, black pants that feel sturdier than they look, and black boots that tie up to my ankles. "Don't you have a token, Silver?" Kensa asks gently. I shake my head. She pulls out of her pocket a necklace with a single diamond hanging from it. "Wear this to remind yourself that you are the Capitols' shining jewel." I throw my arms around Kensa. "Come back soon, okay? I know you can." I nod, suddenly teary eyed. She fastens the necklace around my neck, then helps me get into my arena uniform. Then we sit. And we wait. "Are you okay, Silver?" I give a weak nod. "I think so."

"Ready the Launchpad." I start and look at the plate I have to step onto. "Come on, Silver," Kensa says, taking my hand. I step onto the plate. "No tears. Be strong. I'll see you soon, okay?" "Okay." Then a clear tube rises up around me, separating me from Kensa. She nods and taps her chin upwards. Then the plate begins to rise and I can't see Kensa anymore.