Shine
Chapter 22
Interviews & Odds
Disclaimer: I do not own the Hunger Games, all rights belong to Suzanne Collins, etc.
A/N: One more chapter after this (a Capitol chapter, and a short one), and then it's… the 71st Annual Hunger Games! We're almost there! Before you read the chapter, who do you think will win or not win? After, have your perceptions changed because of the odds? Let me know!
The day of the interviews has arrived. The Tributes have been coached in the morning on what to expect, and their whole afternoon and evening have been swallowed up by their stylists, preparing them to look their best for the interviews that may well determine their fate. Dun dun dun.
Diamond Knowles –18- -D1- POV
I walk onto the stage in a long black dress with long sleeves and a low neckline. My stylist said that the sleeves were to hide my scars. "We don't want you looking too much like you've lived through the Dark Days," he said. Personally, I think that scars would make me look better. It would show that I'm not someone to be taken lightly. But whatever. The stylist, I haven't bothered to learn his name, probably knows more about the Capitol people than I do. Also, I don't have a choice. I walk towards where Caesar stands to greet me.
"Hello, Diamond," Caesar says, extending his hand. "Nice to meet you."
I shake his hand, and we sit down. "Nice to meet you as well, Caesar. I've seen you on TV for years, just waiting for my chance to sit down with the wonderful Caesar Flickerman.
"Well, I'm flattered," Caesar says, looking at the audience. "I never really thought that anyone would want to be here with my ugly mug, but clearly somebody does!" The crowd laughs at his joke and he waves them off. "So, Diamond, what have you been enjoying most about the Capitol?"
"I know it's going to sound a little weird," I say, "but I've been enjoying the training the most. I like getting to work with all of your well-trained instructors." Being this nice hurts. But I have to do it, I have to be charming and charismatic for three minutes. Only three minutes.
"I see," Caesar says. "So, Diamond, what inspired you to volunteer?"
"Well," I say, "I had always wanted to go into the Games since I was a little girl, but what really sealed the deal was last year's Games."
Caesar takes my bait and asks another question. "How so?"
"Well, do you remember Topaz Hazard?" I ask.
"Yes, I do," Caesar says. "He was quite the gentleman, actually. So sorry for him. Did you know him? Wait, you're not the Diamond, are you? The one he mentioned in his interview?"
"I am, actually," I say, trying to act sweet and unassuming.
"Really?" He asks. "So, he said that he loved you. Was that true? Did you feel the same way about him?"
"Yes. I mean, I believe that he loved me. I certainly loved him," I say.
"So is that why you're here? Because of what happened to him?" Caesar asks.
"Yes. Sort of. I mean, it had always been the plan for both of us to go into the Games, both be victors. I had always planned to volunteer this year, but now, I have an additional mission, a new prerogative, if you will, and that is to avenge his death," I say.
"So, his reason for wanting to win was that he wanted to get home to you, and your reason for wanting to win is to avenge him?"
"Yes," I say.
"Well, I'm so sorry for your loss, but can you believe it, people?" He gestures to the crowd. "In two years we've had both halves of this amazing couple on this very stage. It's amazing! Anyways, it was a pleasure to meet you, Diamond, but I'm afraid that's all the time we have. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor, and I hope to see you again." He stands up, and so do I. He offers his hand and I shake it.
"Thank you, Caesar. You as well," I say, before walking off stage.
Lustero Aldor –17- -D1- POV
"Hello, Lustero," Caesar says, as I walk onto the stage in a nice suit. I shake hands with him, and we sit down.
"Hello, Caesar," I reply. "How are you?"
"I'm doing just fine, thank you," Caesar says. "What about you?"
"I'm doing fairly well, Caesar. I'm looking forward to the Games tomorrow. I'm looking forward to winning," I say.
"Quite some confidence there," Caesar says. The audience laughs. "Is there a particular reason for that? Anyone you want to see back home?"
"Yes, actually, there is," I say. "Her name is Argenta Mizar, and… before I left I decided to tell her how I felt, and she felt the same way."
"Really?" Caesar says. "That's great for you. So, your motivation to win is to get back to this Argenta?"
"Yes, yes, it is," I say. "And to bring the glory back to District One, it's been a few years since we've won."
"Of course," Caesar says. "So, what have you enjoyed most here in the Capitol so far?"
"I've enjoyed everything, especially the training," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "So, can we presume that you'll be allies with Diamond, Giselle, Ares, and Falcon?"
"Yes," I say.
"Of course. And if you don't mind telling us, what is your strategy for getting yourself a Shine moment?" Caesar asks.
"Unfortunately, I do mind telling you," I say. "Sorry."
"That's alright," Caesar says. "But you do have a plan?"
"Yes, of course," I say. "I'm sure that you will all be impressed."
"I look forward to it then, Lustero," Caesar says. "It's been nice to meet you, but I'm afraid that that's all the time we have." He stands up, and we shake hands.
"Of course. Nice to meet you too, Caesar," I say, and then I walk offstage.
Giselle Serpentine –16- -D2- POV
I walk onto the stage in a light blue sleeveless dress.
"Hello, Giselle. It's nice to meet you, and if I may say so, you look beautiful," Caesar says.
"Thank you, Caesar," I say, and try to blush. I don't think it works. We sit down.
"So, Giselle, how have you enjoyed the Capitol so far?" Caesar asks.
"It's been wonderful. Everyone is very nice, everything is very pretty, and there's lots of food and nice clothes around," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "I may be guilty of indulging in the food a bit too much myself. What do you think, does it show?" He asks the audience, who shout encouragement at him. "So, Giselle, why did you volunteer? You're very young to take on something as challenging as the Hunger Games? Do you think you stand a good chance at winning?"
"It had been my dream to volunteer since I was little," I say, truthfully. "I had always wanted to volunteer at sixteen, just like Anna Thompson, if you remember her. She won, and I figured that I could too, even being sixteen. Now that I'm here, I still think that I should be able to win. I hope so, at least."
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, having confidence is good. Do you have anyone special for you at home?"
"Not really," I say. "I never had much time for boys."
"Of course," Caesar says. "What about your family? Are they supportive?"
Now I need to decide how much truth to tell him. I decide on all of it. "They say they are, but I could always tell that they really didn't want me to go. But when I come back a Victory, they'll be happy. They're just worried about me."
"I see," Caesar says. "You seem confident in your victory. Do you have a plan for getting a Shine moment?"
"Yes, I do," I say. "Unfortunately, I don't want to share it."
"Understandable," Caesar says. "And can I presume that your allies will be Diamond, Lustero, Ares, and Falcon?"
"You presume correctly," I respond.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, I look forward to seeing you in the Games, and it has been a pleasure meeting you, Giselle. Unfortunately, that's all the time we have."
"Of course," I say, as we stand up. "Thank you, Caesar. It's been nice to meet you also." Then we shake hands and I walk off stage.
Ares Moretti –18- -D2- POV
I walk onto the stage in a nice suit.
"Hello, Ares," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say, and we shake hands and sit down.
"So, Ares, how are you doing? Do you feel confident?" Caesar asks.
"I'm doing just fine, Caesar. I do feel fairly confident, actually. I really think that only one other person here can be a threat to me, and that's Giselle," I say.
"And you are allying with her, Diamond, Lustero, and Falcon, correct?" Caesar asks.
"Yes, I am," I say.
"So you think that you'll be able to get an advantage on her then?" Caesar asks.
"That's the plan, yes," I say. "Maybe we shouldn't be talking about this."
"Of course," Caesar says. "Wouldn't want her getting too many ideas about your plans. So, Ares, why do you want to win the Games? Is there anyone special back in District Two?"
I consider the question for a moment before answering. "Not really, Caesar. She probably wouldn't like me saying that, but I doubt that we'd ever go anywhere."
"I see," Caesar says. "And what about your family? Are they supportive of you volunteering for the Games?"
"They actually enrolled me in training," I'm not afraid, like most careers are, to say that I've been training, "because I was a troublemaker. At first, they wanted me to be a Peacekeeper, but let's just say that this… better suits me. I think they're okay with it."
"You mentioned that your family wanted you to be a Peacekeeper. Why is that?" Caesar asks.
"My father is one, and my sister is a liaison for them," I say. "They wanted me to follow in their footsteps."
"Of course," Caesar says. "Well, it's been nice to meet you, Ares. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor. I'm afraid that's all the time we have for tonight, but I look forward to watching you in the Arena."
"Thank you, Caesar," I say. We stand and shake hands, and then I walk off stage.
Clear Palatino –12- -D3- POV
I walk onto the stage in a long pink dress.
"Hello, Clear," Caesar says. "How are you?" We shake hands and sit down.
"I'm okay, Caesar, considering the circumstances," I say.
"I see. Speaking of the circumstances, I understand that after you were Reaped back in District Three, your step-brother was also Reaped. How does that feel?" Caesar asks. "And do you have plans to deal with that?"
"It's a little scary, to be honest, Caesar. Knowing that only one of us can win, knowing that even if I live, Bec will be dead, and wondering what that means for our family, for our parents back home," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, I am sorry. I can only imagine how hard that must be. All of my siblings are still very much alive. I hate to ask this," No you don't, I think, but don't say, "but do you two have a plan for dealing with that if both of you make it until the end?"
I feel tears starting. That's actually not a bad thing, I realize. I sniffle a bit as I say, "I- I'd rather not talk about that."
"Of course," Caesar says in a calm, reassuring voice. "I understand, that's alright. Let's talk about your plan to get a Shine moment if you have one. Do you have one?"
"No, I don't, unfortunately," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "Is there anything else you'd like to tell me?"
"No, I don't think so," I say.
"Of course. Well, thank you then, Clear. It was very nice to meet you, and May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor," Caesar says. We rise and shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar. It was very nice to meet you too," I say, then walk offstage.
Becquerel 'Bec' Grey –15- -D3- POV
I walk onto the stage in a nice suit.
"Hello, Becquerel," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. "Please, just call me Bec."
"Of course, Bec," Caesar says. "So, how do you feel, being here with your sister?" I notice that he didn't refer to Clear as my step-sister, just my sister. But I'm her step-brother. Interesting.
"It's a little scary," I say. "But I'm managing. With Clear's help mostly, she's the brains of the two of us."
"I see," Caesar says. "So, Bec, you were Reaped, just like Clear. Amazing odds, to be sure. But would you have volunteered, so that you could help her if you weren't Reaped?"
"That's a good question, Caesar," I say, and I prepare myself to tell a lie. The lie that I've been practicing for the past few days. But… maybe they'll like the truth better. I hope it'll make me seem more human. Let's hope so. "But, no. No, I wasn't going to. I wanted to, I really did, but I was frozen, frozen by fear. I was a coward, I wasn't even going to help my little sister. I was going to let her die and I was going to watch. And I'm sort of happy I got Reaped because I deserve it. We may not have always, or even most of the time, gotten along, but she was still my sister."
"Wow," Caesar says. "That's a lot. But it is noble of you to want to protect her. Can I assume then that that is what you're relying on for your Shine moment?"
"Yes, you can," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, for the record, I think that you're very brave, Bec."
"Thank you, Caesar," I say.
"Thank you, Becquerel. Unfortunately, that's all the time we have, but it was a pleasure to meet you. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand up.
"Thank you, Caesar. You as well," I say. We shake hands and I walk offstage.
Thia Zollis –15- -D4- POV
I walk out onto the stage in a light blue dress that compliments my blue-gray eyes, with a medium neckline and matching heels. My blonde hair has fallen down around my shoulders, in a way that looks natural, but actually took the stylists the better part of an hour to do. Now I understand why the interviews are done at night.
"Hello, Thia," Caesar says. "May I say that you look stunning tonight?"
"Hello, Caesar," I say. "Yes, you may. Thank you, by the way." We shake hands and sit down.
"So, Thia, tell me about your home. What is life like for you in District Four?" Caesar asks.
"Life is good in Four. Mostly. It was better before the Sixty-Ninth Games though," I say.
"Why is that?" Caesar asks.
"Well, I had a friend. I don't know if you remember him, Austin Fallon," I say.
"Yes, I do remember Austin. He was quite the charming young man. He teamed up with that girl from six, if I remember, Annabelle. Oh! Is that why? You said he was your friend, and he was killed?" Caesar asks.
"Yes," I say. "Yes, it was. I did find another friend, Lily. She's been a good friend too. But, the story gets better."
"Really?" Caesar asks, evidently intrigued. "You must tell me more."
"Of course," I say. "So, not to spoil her moment or anything, but you know Harper, Harper Satin?"
"Why yes, of course. She is the Female Tribute from District Six this year," Caesar says.
"Well," I say, and I see from Caesar's face that he's caught on, but he wants to let me tell the story, "her sister was Hailey Satin, who was also in the Sixty-Ninth Games. Hailey was actually the one who killed that Annabelle b-h. I'm sorry for my language, I just wasn't a big fan of… her."
"Of course," Caesar says. "It makes sense that you wouldn't be. But that is amazing! What are the odds that you would meet the sister of the girl who killed the girl who killed your friend in a Hunger Games two years later?"
"I don't know," I say, smiling, "but I imagine that they must be pretty low."
"I would imagine so," Caesar says. "Thank you for sharing that with us, Thia. It was very nice to meet you, but I'm afraid that it's almost time for Falcon."
"Of course," I say. "It was very nice to meet you too," I say. We shake hands and I walk offstage.
Falcon Lockdust –17- -D4- POV
I sneak another look at Vallory before I walk onstage. I can't help myself. I've been looking at her every chance I get, during training, anytime, really. I can't seem to stop. And I can't stop thinking about her, and -ugh. How did this happen? How did I develop feelings for someone in the Hunger Games, of all places? I know how. Because she could beat me in combat, because she's like me, because she's fun, and she's pretty. Like really pretty. And in what she's wearing tonight-
"Falcon?" Caesar calls from the stage. I walk out onto the stage in my suit, with my translator.
"Sorry, Caesar. I… got distracted," I say. We shake hands and sit down.
"So, Falcon, I can see that you have a translator for sign language. Tell me, how is it being mute, and how has it affected your training?" Caesar asks.
"Well, Caesar, I never really knew any different, so for me, it's just like being able to talk," I say. "As for training, it's been… interesting. The translators have helped a lot, definitely. But it's still hard sometimes. I can't talk when I'm holding something or fighting."
"I see," Caesar says. "I imagine it must be challenging, sometimes. Do you think it will affect your ability in the Games?"
"No, not really," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, I also hope it doesn't. I'm afraid that I couldn't learn sign language in time for this interview. That was my first question when they told me I had a mute Tribute, actually. So, Falcon, do you have any plans for getting a Shine moment?"
"I don't want to discuss those," I say.
"Of course," Caesar says. "And you will be allying with Diamond, Lustero, Giselle, and Ares?"
"That's the plan currently," I say.
"Currently?" Caesar asks. "Can it change?"
"No, probably not," I say. "Unless one of them drops out, that is."
"Ah, of course," Caesar says. Good. I managed to fix my mistake. "Well, it has been a pleasure to meet you, Falcon. Thank you, and May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor."
"Thank you too, Caesar. It was a pleasure to meet you also," I say, then we shake hands and I walk offstage.
Serena Holden –15- -D5- POV
I walk onto the stage in a black dress. I sneak a look back at Andrew before continuing. I don't think he has any idea that I like him. It's sort of cute, honestly.
"Hello, Serena," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say, and we shake hands.
"So, Serena, how has your time in the Capitol been?" Caesar asks.
"It's been good so far. I've had the most complicated shower ever – I work in a lab and I didn't get it at first – and I've made some new friends," I say.
"Ah, the showers. They get the Tributes every time," Caesar says. "Some say they're more deadly than the Games themselves." The audience laughs at his joke, and he continues. "So, Serena, how is the Capitol different from District Five?"
"Well, for starters, I actually have friends here, and not everyone hates me," I say.
"Why does everyone hate you in District Five?" Caesar asks. "You seem like a very charming young lady to me."
"Well, thank you, Caesar," I say. "They don't care how charming or not I am, unfortunately. Everyone back home judges me based on some stuff my brother did. And while I don't want to get into that, because it was pretty bad stuff, I do want to tell something to everyone back home."
"Go ahead," Caesar says.
I look directly at the camera before I start speaking. "I am not my brother. But since so many seemed to think that I was, maybe I will be. I will win the Games. And I will come back. You want a Monster? Here I am."
"Well, Serena," Caesar says. "That was quite dramatic."
"Yes," I say. "But it's the truth. They won't accept that I'm not a monster, so I guess that I may need to become win. If I want to win, I need to, anyway. But they will also see that I'm not a Monster. I don't want to hurt anyone, but if I need to, and I need to, I will."
"I see," Caesar says. "You mentioned that you had made some new friends here. Who are those friends?"
"Well," I say, "Andrew has really helped me. He's made me… less angry at my home than I was before. And Vallory has been nice too. We're actually allies, all three of us."
"I see," Caesar says. "You don't seem like a monster, Serena."
"I don't want to be. I'm not. I don't want to hurt anyone. But I'll need to. Does that make me a Monster? Maybe. I don't want to see anyone hurt. But it doesn't matter. As soon as I kill my first opponent, everyone will hate me."
"I see, Serena," Caesar says. "Well, I am sorry. That is also all the time we have. It was a pleasure to meet you, Serena. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand and shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar. It was nice to meet you too," I say, then I walk offstage.
Emery Colt –17- -D5- POV
A/N: For the best reading of this part of this chapter, google Hunger Games Panem Anthem and listen to it. You'll see why. (I take no responsibility for whatever else YouTube shows you. :) )
I walk onto the stage wearing a simple royal blue suit with a white undershirt and brown shoes.
"Hello, Emery," Caesar says. "That color looks good on you, it brings out your eyes."
"Thank you, Caesar," I say. We shake hands and sit down.
"So, Emery, tell us about yourself. What's life like back in District Five?" Caesar asks.
"Well, like Serena, I was a bit of an outcast," I say. "Not for the same reasons, not anywhere close, just… people didn't like that I had an… easier way to make money. That's all. I can sing. Apparently really well. And I sang for the mayor, and… people really stopped talking to me. I only really have one friend, although he's great. Hi, Luka," I wave at the camera, "and a great family. My mom, my dad, my sister, my cousins, my aunt and uncle, they're all great people."
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, would you mind singing something for us?"
"Um…" I stutter. I didn't expect that.
"Please?" Caesar asks. "We would love to hear your voice." Implied in his tone and expression is that it might help me gain Sponsors, much more so than being shy will.
"Uh, sure," I say. "You have a song, or…" I let my thought fall off.
"How about you sing the Anthem?" Caesar asks.
"Oh. Of course," I say.
"May I ask everyone in the audience to please stand for Mr. Colt's rendition?" Caesar asks. I hear shuffling in the audience. I stand up, and Caesar does too. "You can start whenever you want, Emery," Caesar says.
I start to sing, "The Horn of Plenty overflows/Panem shall rise above..." When I'm finished, Caesar speaks again.
"You may take your seats, ladies, and gentlemen," Caesar says, then, "Thank you, Emery. That was truly beautiful. You rival some of the best singers here in the Capitol. We don't have a lot of time left, but I did want to ask you if you have made any allies or have plans for a Shine moment."
"I have made allies, two of them," I say. "Kayne Lytch and Tontu Heinburg. We're actually united in our desire to get home to the young women we love. And, Mia, hi. I guess I do love you. This is uh, awkward, but I don't think I can leave before my time's up. Caesar, another question?"
Caesar laughs. "Of course, Emery. Do you have any plans for getting a Shine moment?"
"I do, but… I don't think I should talk about them. Nothing that's going to hurt anyone, but my allies might not want that much help. They're just going to have to suck it up," I say jokingly.
"Of course," Caesar says and smiles. "Well, thank you, Emery. It has truly been a pleasure having you, I hope that the Odds are Ever in Your Favor."
I shake hands with him, and say, "Thank you, Caesar. It was a pleasure to meet you and to be here. Thank you again." Then I walk offstage to thunderous applause from the audience.
Harper Satin –16- -D6- POV
I walk onto the stage in a black dress.
"Hello, Harper," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. We shake hands and I sit down.
"How are you, Harper?" Caesar asks.
"I'm good, thank you, Caesar," I say.
"So, as you heard, we already know that it was your sister who avenged the death of Thia's friend," Caesar says. "Did you already know that? I can't imagine how you would, but how did that come up in casual conversation?"
"I didn't know that, no," I say. "Actually, it came when I introduced myself. She remembered that Hailey's last name was Satin and that she was from District Six, and she just asked me if I had a sister named Hailey. And of course, I said that I do, then she told me that Austin was her friend, etc."
"Of course," Caesar says. "Well, I am sorry for your loss, Harper. Hailey was a sweet girl, just as beautiful as her sister." I blush slightly.
"Thank you, Caesar," I say.
"What made you volunteer though?" Caesar asks. "Was it because of Hailey?"
"It was, but not in the way you would think," I say. "I was reliving Hailey's Reaping – I'm the same age she was when she was Reaped – and I was thinking that I wish that I had volunteered for her, and then… the words just came out of my mouth, I guess, and I was volunteering. It's okay, I guess."
"I see," Caesar says. "That is quite the story. I have to say though, you shouldn't have felt bad about not volunteering. At only fourteen, you wouldn't have had great odds, and who knows, your sister may have been here anyways," he pauses, then, "I'm sorry. That wasn't polite. I think that you have much better odds now. What do you think?"
"I hope that I can win," I say. "I think I might be able to. I have two wonderful allies, Thia, obviously, and Rhylee Kaski," a flash of annoyance, and… is that pity? A flash of annoyance and pity sweeps over Caesar's face before he can hide it. Odd.
"Well, those two well be great allies, I'm sure," he says. "You and Thia being allies certainly defies the odds, doesn't it?"
"Yes, I guess it does," I say.
"Well, I hope that you continue to defy the odds in the Arena," Caesar says, rising. I rise. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Harper. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar. It was a pleasure to meet you as well," I say, then walk offstage.
Andrew Spayler –15- -D6- POV
I walk onto the stage in a nice suit. My stylist had wanted to do something with my brace, but I told him just to leave it. It doesn't matter that much anyway.
"Hello, Andrew," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. We shake hands and sit down.
"So, you know I have to ask, Andrew, what made you get that brace? And do you think that it will affect your odds in the Games?" Caesar asks.
"It was an unfortunate accident between my leg and a train car," I say. "A coal car. As for if it will affect my chances, I saw about getting it allowed for me to wear in the Games. I asked Athena, not the one from Nine, Athena Feere, I asked her if I could wear it in the Games. She's looking into it, so I hope it won't be a problem. Otherwise, I might not do so well. If I can't convince people not to attack me, which would-"
Caesar cuts me off. "I see. So, can you tell me about your life back home?"
So, they don't like any suggestion about not fighting. Okay. "It's okay. I don't have a family, or really any friends, just people who know me. That seems to be a theme this year, I guess. Outcasts."
"Why are you an outcast, Andrew?" Caesar asks.
"I'm just not that social, I guess," I say. "I'm not really an outcast, per se, rather I don't have many people I would consider to be more than work friends."
"I see," Caesar says. "And what do you do for work?"
"I work on the railroads," I say.
"And what happened to your family?"
"They died. A long time ago, most of them. Most recently, my little sister. She'd be nine now," I say.
"I'm sorry, Andrew," Caesar says. "Well, it was nice to meet you. Unfortunately, that's all the time we have. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor!"
"Thank you, Caesar. It was nice to meet you also," I say. We shake hands, and I walk offstage.
Vallory 'Val' Stensland –16- -D7- POV
I walk onto the stage wearing a dress of violet purple in a mermaid style. The sleeves are off the shoulder. The style of the dress is very simple and very sparkly. I also have a violet and amethyst studded gold necklace, a gold set of bracelets, and purple gem earrings. And high purple heels that are sparkly. My stylist has put dark, but not too heavy, makeup that sharply defines my eyes, mouth, and cheekbones on me, and slicked my hair into a low, curly ponytail. I stumble a little bit as I walk towards Caesar, but I recover.
"Hello, Vallory," Caesar says. "You look beautiful."
"Hello, Caesar, and thank you," I say. We shake hands and sit.
"So, Vallory, what have you enjoyed most about the Capitol so far?" Caesar asks.
"I've enjoyed everything, Caesar," I say. I don't really know what to say. I think all of this is a bit much. I don't enjoy anything, knowing it comes off the labor of the Districts.
"Of course," Caesar says. "Everything here is wonderful. So, tell me about your life in District Seven then."
"I'm not much special. I just work as a woodcutter, help support my family. I have two good friends, Mara and Whisper, hi guys, my brother, and my mother and father, and that's about it," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "They sound like wonderful people."
"They are," I say.
"I'm glad to hear it," Caesar says. "Have you made any new friends since you arrived in the Capitol?"
"You could say I have. I've meet Serena and Andrew, and as Serena mentioned, we'll be allies," I say.
"That's good to hear," Caesar says. "How does it feel to be here? Are you confident or worried about the Games tomorrow?"
"I'm definitely worried a bit. It's comfortable here, that's for sure," I say, trying to smile.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, I think you can win, Vallory. You have good odds, in my opinion. So, what are your plans for getting a Shine moment?"
"I don't really know," I say, "but I'm sure I'll figure it out." I have sort of an idea, but it involves not hurting people, and I don't know enough about Serena or Andrew to know how they'll like that.
"Of course," Caesar says. "Well, it was a pleasure to meet you, Vallory. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand.
"Thank you, Caesar. It was a pleasure to meet you too," I say. We shake hands and I walk offstage.
Aster Ochs –17- -D7- POV
I walk onto the stage in a nice suit.
"Hello, Aster," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. We shake hands and sit down.
"How are you today?" Caesar asks.
"Good enough, considering the circumstances," I say.
"Of course," Caesar says. "What have you enjoyed most about the Capitol?"
"I've really enjoyed the food," I say.
"Of course," Caesar says. "Our food is delicious. I myself have been known to over-indulge sometimes. So, Aster, what is life like for you back in District Seven?"
I've thought about this for a while. I think I might as well just tell the truth. I might not be coming back anyway, and lying won't do me any good. "I sort of live two lives, Caesar. To my parents, I'm a nice kid who likes poetry and writing, and to my friends, I'm the life of the party."
"And which one is really you?" Caesar asks.
"That's a good question," I reply. "Really who my parents think I am. I'm not really the kid who sneaks out to go to parties, despite that I sneak out to go to parties," I chuckle ironically at my own joke, "I am much more the poet and writer, but my friends never really encouraged that, so I did what they wanted. But that's me. If I were to make a poem about this, I'd probably call it 'Confession'."
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, that's quite interesting, Aster. I would ask you to write a poem about me, but I'm much too boring." The audience laughs at his self-deprecating humor. "So, do you have a plan for getting a Shine moment this year?"
"Well, I've met a pretty girl named Brianna," I say. Caesar nods for me to continue, "So my plan is just to defend her to the best of my ability."
"Well, that sounds like a good plan," Caesar says. "Have you met anyone else noteworthy?"
"Not really," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, thank you, Aster. It was a pleasure to meet you. That's all the time we have for today, unfortunately. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand and shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar," I say. "It was nice to meet you as well." I walk offstage.
Rhylee Kaski –16- -D8- POV
I walk onto the stage in a blue dress that reminds me of Thia's. She looked pretty in that dress.
"Hello, Rhylee," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say.
"How are you?" Caesar asks.
"I'm good enough," I say.
"So, tell us about your life back in District Eight," Caesar says.
"Well, I have a father, a few older siblings, my twin brother, Landon, hi, my best friend, Jenni, hi, Jenni, and my girlfriend, Lake. Hi Lake!" I wave at the camera. I look back just in time to see Caesar's grimace fade. Odd.
"I see," Caesar says. "So, we already know that you're allying with Thia and Harper, is that correct?"
"Yes, it is," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "What have you enjoyed most about the Capitol?"
"Probably meeting new people," I say. "And everyone here's so pretty. You, Tiffany, our escort, you know."
"That's nice," Caesar says. "It seems like you might fit right in here, Rhylee. Would you say that?"
"Oh, I don't know," I say, trying to not show that being with these people disgusts me and that I was lying before. "I wouldn't think I was refined enough." Gag. You know, he didn't even thank me for the compliment. What's going on with him?
"I see," Caesar says. "Do you have any plans for getting a Shine moment?"
"Not really. Not yet," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. That's all he's said during my whole interview. "Well, it was nice to meet you, Rhylee. I'm afraid that's all the time we have. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor!" We stand.
"Thank you, Caesar. It was nice to meet you too" I say. We shake hands and I walk offstage.
Silk Daisly –16- -D8- POV
I walk onto the stage in a nice suit.
"Hello, Silk," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. We shake hands and sit down.
"So, Silk, what have you enjoyed most about the Capitol?" Caesar asks.
"I've enjoyed the people the most. The other Tributes, the trainers, everyone," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "We are quite nice people, aren't we?" He laughs at his own joke, and so does the audience. "So, Silk, tell us about life back in District Eight."
"My life isn't much interesting," I say. "I live with my parents and my grandmother. My grandfather passed away recently. My mom and dad are tailors, and I like to make music. I can't sing like Emery, but I can play pretty much any instrument that you can put into my hands," I say.
"That's wonderful," Caesar says. "I would love to hear some of your music, but unfortunately, the only instrument we have nearby is a piano. Can you play that?"
"Sure," I say.
"Really?" Caesar asks.
"Yes," I say.
"Okay," Caesar says. "It's being sent out. While we wait, do you have any allies? Any plans for a Shine moment?"
"No, and I don't really want to say," I say.
"Of course," Caesar says. "Ah, the piano is here." A couple of Capitol servants bring out a- an actual grand piano. I can't believe my eyes. "There you go," Caesar says. "Play us something." So I do. I play a beautiful song, an original composition. When I'm done, Caesar says, "That was beautiful. Thank you, Silk. I'm afraid that's all the time we have, but thank you. It was a pleasure to meet you, and May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." I stand, him having already stood, and we shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar. It was a pleasure meeting you as well," I say. Then I walk offstage.
Athena Rye –14- -D9- POV
I walk onto the stage in a black dress. My brown hair has been curled more than it could ever have been naturally by my stylist.
"Hello, Athena," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I reply. We shake hands and sit down.
"How are you today, Athena?" Caesar asks.
"I'm fairly good considering the circumstances, Caesar," I say.
"That's good to hear," Caesar says. "How is life here compared to life back in District Nine?"
"Everything is certainly fancier here," I say, "but having the whole Hunger Games hanging over your head does sort of things."
"Of course," Caesar says. "Would you mind telling us more about your life at home? Do you have friends? A boyfriend, perhaps?"
"I do have some friends. Two of them. Hi, Aalia, Presley," I say, and wave at the camera. "My family life isn't the best, I'd rather not talk about it. As for a boyfriend, I… I never really liked anyone like that, but… someone did like me like that."
"Really?" Caesar asks. "And what happened with them?"
"Well, at first, I rejected them, but then, not that long ago, we got put in a situation that sort of… necessitated us being together. I guess that I didn't have to be with him, but he begged me. I would say… this is hard for me, sorry… I'm really shy, but I told myself that I would do this."
"It's alright," Caesar says, leaning forward. "It's just the two of us, Athena. We're friends, just the two of us. Now, what is it that you wanted to say?"
"I… I sort of think that I might have, maybe, I don't know, but I might have, like, I might feel the same way about him," I say.
"And who is he?" Caesar asks. "Might I know him?"
"You might," I say. "If you know who Isaiah Lemont is." Then my buzzer goes off.
"Well, well, well, Athena," Caesar says. "Perfect timing, I suppose. It was a pleasure to meet you, Athena. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand and shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar. It was a pleasure meeting you as well," I say. Then I walk offstage.
Isaiah Lemont –15- -D9- POV
I'm still reeling from what Athena said when I walk out onto the stage in a nice suit.
"Hello, Isaiah," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. We shake hands and sit down.
"So, Isaiah, let's get right to it," Caesar says. "Do you have feelings for Athena?"
"Yes, yes, I do," I say. "And I actually asked her out back home. She told me no. Sort of brutally actually. I mean, it wasn't – she has every right to tell me, no, you know. But – that's unfair to her. She wasn't trying to be mean. That's just the way she is, she's shy, and I surprised her, and – that's what I like about her actually. But, uh, yeah. After she was Reaped, I was… I was devastated. I didn't know how I was going to live. And then, well… on the train, I asked to be her ally. I had to convince her, she didn't want to be my ally. I mean, I get it. Who wants to ally with somebody who has an unrequited romantic interest in them? But I promised her that I wouldn't try anything and that it would be mutually beneficial. When that didn't work, I told her that I didn't think I could kill her, she finally relented. I… I had no idea that she started to feel the same way about me. But, Athena," for the first time in the interview, I look at where she's standing, in front of me, on the left side of the stage, from the audience's perspective. "If you get to drop a bomb on me like that during your interview, I guess I'll do that too." I pause for dramatic effect. Then I look back at Caesar, then at the camera. "I think I might love her." Gasps from the audience.
"Really?" Caesar asks. "That is quite the thing to say, especially here. Do you think she shares your feelings?"
"I honestly have no idea," I say. "But I didn't think she even liked me, so… who knows."
"Well, I wish we could get her back out here for some more questions," Caesar says. "But sadly, her time is up, and so is yours, Isaiah. It was very nice to meet you, and May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand and shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar. It was nice to meet you too," I say, then walk offstage to where Athena is waiting. I politely turn to face the stage and wait for the next Tribute.
Kayra Dawnbreeze –13- -D10- POV
I walk onto the stage in a long brown dress.
"Hello, Kayra," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. We shake hands and sit down.
"So, Kayra, can you tell me a little bit about your life at home?" Caesar asks.
"Sure," I say. "I live with my mom, dad, two brothers, and my sister. I really only have one friend, Neem."
"I see," Caesar says. "So, what do you do on a day to day basis in District Ten?"
"Go to school, the usual, you know. Not much," I say. I can tell that he's trying to help me, just like I could tell that for some reason, he feels bad for Rhylee. I don't know why, but he seemed both disgusted and sad when she came up. He's trying to help me, but it just makes me more nervous.
"Of course," Caesar says. "What have you enjoyed most about the Capitol?"
"Probably the food," I say. "We never had much of it in District Ten. My parents didn't allow me or my siblings to take Tesserae, so we never had very much food. They wanted to make sure we wouldn't get Reaped. You can see how well that worked."
"The Tesserae are the Capitol's gift to the Districts, to make sure that everyone has enough," Caesar says. "I'm sorry that your parents weren't wise enough to accept our generosity." I can't tell if he really believes the Capitol propaganda that he's spouting or not, but I don't quite think he does. "Is there anything else you'd like to tell me?" Caesar asks.
"I can't think of anything," I say.
"Well then, I guess that's okay. We only have about ten seconds left anyway. Thank you, Kayra. It's been a pleasure. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand and shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar. It's been a pleasure also," I say, then walk offstage.
Kayne Lytch –13- -D10- POV
I walk onto the stage in a nice suit.
"Hello, Kayne," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. "Nice to meet you."
We shake hands. "Thank you, Kayne. You as well," Caesar says. "So, Kayne, can you tell me about your life back in District Ten? Your family and friends? Anyone else special?"
"I don't have a family anymore. Both of my parents committed suicide," gasps from the audience, "after my brother went to jail – I'd rather not talk about that," I want to avoid saying that I agree with him, otherwise the Capitol might blow me up tomorrow morning, "but I have no family left. I do have a good friend in the foster system, his name is Jose, and although he's only eleven, you wouldn't know it. And… as far as anyone else special, that honor goes to… Kylie. Out of curiosity, what time is it, Caesar?" I know what time the interviews air, but it's better to engage Caesar in my interview. He is the interviewer, after all.
"It's around six pm, Kayne," Caesar says.
"Thank you," I say. "So, hi, Kylie. She's probably watching this in her living room right now, with her family," I smile at the thought of her in her living room, on her couch, "and I'm just going to say to them that if she wants, maybe they should put a TV in her bedroom. And I hope they won't need to, but having her watch from home might be better than school, because, well, because… after the Reaping, in the Justice Building, we… we confessed our love for each other. She's a year older than me, and the most beautiful person you'll ever see, and… I love her. She's my motivation, she's my motivation to get back home."
"That is heartwarming, Kayne," Caesar says. "So you want to go home to be with Kylie again?"
"Yes," I say. "She's the love of, and the light of, my life." I smile. "I can't not smile when I think of her."
"That's very touching, Kayne. Unfortunately, that's all the time we have," Caesar says. "It was a pleasure to meet you. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand up and shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar. I hope that the Odds are good," I say. "And it was a pleasure to meet you too." Then I walk offstage.
Brianna 'Bri' Tribiani –16- -D10- POV
I walk onto the stage in a medium-cut cream-colored dress.
"Hello, Brianna," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say. "Please, call me, Bri. Nobody calls me Brianna."
"Of course, Bri. And may I say, you look beautiful tonight," Caesar says.
"Thank you, Caesar," I say.
"So, Bri, how have you enjoyed the Capitol so far?" Caesar asks.
"It's been pretty fun," I say. "Everything is nice and comfortable, I've met a nice guy, had more food than I've ever had since I was kicked out, and been threatened to be killed by another Tribute, so mostly, it's good."
"There's a lot to follow up on there, Bri, but I think that first I have to go with the death threat," Caesar says. "Care to elaborate?"
"Of course, Caesar," I say. "Diamond Knowles, you talked to her earlier," Caesar nods his head. "Yeah, her. She threatened to kill me, said she would, because Athena shouldn't have won last year and I was as close as she could get to killing the – I'm not going to repeat what she said, but let's say it was a bad word –, as close as she could get to killing the – that who killed her Topaz. She threatened to kill me and did everything besides physically assault me, she pulled my sword out of my hands."
"That is disturbing," Caesar says. "She wants revenge, you said?"
"Yes," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, best of luck there. Next, you mentioned you were kicked out?" He says the first part with a rueful glance at the camera, like good luck to her, but it won't matter. It annoys me, but I do my best to hide it. I know that I need to be diplomatic if I want to win.
"Yes, I was. My father always hated me, and so did my brother. I know we're running low on time, so long story short is that my brother lied, got me kicked out, and then tried to kill me. Since then, I've been living on the streets with my friend Pat," I say, and quickly wonder if Pat is watching. I doubt it, she can't usually find a TV. Unless some Peacekeepers found her and forced her to watch. At least then she'd be getting food. I don't know which way would be better, and I quickly force thoughts about Pat out of my mind.
"Wow. You have quite an interesting history at only sixteen, don't you?" Caesar asks.
"Yes, I guess I do," I say.
"I see. Well, thank you," Caesar says. "It has been a pleasure to meet you, and May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand.
"Thank you, Caesar. I hope so as well. It was a pleasure to meet you too," I say. We shake hands, and I walk offstage.
Tontu Heinburg –18- -D11- POV
I walk out onto the stage in a nice suit.
"Hello, Tontu," Caesar says.
Hello, Caesar, I write. The Capitol has given me a fancy tablet to write, or as they say, type, on. We shake hands and sit down.
"So, Tontu, tell me about life back home in District Eleven. How is it, you, your family, and being mute?" Caesar asks.
Life back home is okay. I wish I could talk, but… that's just the way it is. I also wish that my dad hadn't died, but… same thing. I'm happier now though because… my one true friend, who I loved, she… she told me she feels the same way. And… about that, I couldn't be happier. I would be happier if I wasn't here, and I was there with her, but then I might still not have told her, so… I'll try my very best to win so that I can get back to her. My words are broadcast over the speakers in a computer voice, and Caesar nods when he sees that I've finished typing. I'm not a very good typist, and I've taken most of my time typing about Noami. I wish they had given me more of an opportunity to practice with the tablet before, but oh well.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, in that respect, you sound very lucky, Tontu. I'm sorry, I wish we could talk more, but, I think that what you've said is enough. It was a pleasure to meet you, and May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand and shake hands.
Thank you. You as well, I type, then I walk offstage.
Camelia Lloha –12- -D12- POV
I walk onto the stage in a long pink dress. I've tried to pull myself together, but it's hard. The closer I get to the Games, the more scared I become. I don't stand a chance and I know it.
"Hello, Camelia," Caesar says. I nod at him and feel myself starting to cry. "Camelia?" He asks. "Are you okay?" I try to nod, but I can't.
"I- I-" I run off the stage the way I came in tears. I barely hear Caesar trying to coax me out. Finally, my timer is over, and it's Char's turn.
Char Alfand –14- -D12- POV
I feel bad for Camelia, but at least she won't be a threat. I walk onto the stage after her timer expires in a nice enough suit.
"Hello, Char," Caesar says.
"Hello, Caesar," I say.
"How are you today?" Caesar asks.
"Good enough," I say.
"Of course," Caesar says. "So, tell me, Char, what is life like back in District Twelve?"
"It's okay," I say. "I have my parents and my sister. I also have one good friend, Dahla, hi. That's really it. We don't have a lot of food, but that's Twelve, I guess."
"I see," Caesar says. "And what have you enjoyed most about the Capitol?"
"I've probably enjoyed having enough food," I say.
"Of course," Caesar says. "And do you have any allies in the Games?"
"Kayra," I say. "That's it."
"I see," Caesar says. He likes that phrase. "And what is your plan for getting a Shine moment?"
"Just to defend Kayra as selflessly as I can, I guess," I say.
"I see," Caesar says. "Well, thank you, Char. It's been a pleasure to meet you, but I'm afraid that's all the time we have. May the Odds be Ever in Your Favor." We stand up and shake hands.
"Thank you, Caesar," I say. "It was nice to meet you too." Then I walk offstage.
Right after the last interview…
Isaiah Lemont –15- -D9- POV
I turn to Athena as soon as Char walks offstage and kiss her. She kisses me back passionately for a few seconds.
"You like me?" I ask.
"You love me?" She counters.
"You first," I say.
"Fine. I think I do," she says.
"And I think I do," I say.
"What do we do know?" She asks.
"I think we just keep doing what we had planned before, except that now it's less awkward," I say.
"Sounds good," she says. Then we walk, arm-in-arm, back to our floor, and our adjacent rooms. We kiss one more time before we each head to our separate rooms to sleep.
After the interviews… The Tributes are walking back to their rooms for the last night in the Capitol…
Vallory 'Val' Stensland –16- -D7- POV
Falcon runs up to me. That's odd. His translator is behind him, out of breath.
"Falcon?" I ask.
He waits for his translator to catch his breath, then signs so quickly that his translator runs out of breath again. "Vallory. I have feelings for you. Like, romantic feelings. I can't lie, and I also couldn't kill you. So I'm here to tell you that tomorrow, I..." he pauses, and his translator takes the opportunity to catch his breath again. "I'll go with you, any allies you have. I'm willing to be your ally if you want me." I think about it for a second. I'm not quite sure how I feel, personally about him. I guess it's possible that I could like him. I think about it for a second. Okay, he's fun, not that bad looking. Of course, from a Games perspective, the answer is obvious. Having a career on our side would be great. And… maybe I do sort of like him.
"Sure," I say. "Follow us tomorrow," I say.
"I will," he says. "Good night."
"Good night, Falcon," I say, then head off to my room.
(Author's Note: Here's how the Capitol odds work in my system, which I had way too much fun coming up with. So, a Tribute's base odds, everything being equal, would be 1:24. The highest odds go is 1:1, which in practice no one ever gets (since 1:1 means one in one, or that it is certain that they win, which never happens). Therefore, odds of 1:2.4 would mean that it's ten times as likely that that Tribute will win, whereas odds of 1:240 mean that it's ten times less likely. 1:48 would be two times less likely, etc. Capitolites can bet in one of two ways: Place betting and special betting. (That is on places, the main event, there are many side bets, ie, if Athena and Isaiah will stay together or break up, etc.). In place betting, you simply bet on a Tribute getting a certain place (Ex: Vallory will take 13th). This betting is heavily influenced by the odds. You can also take points on a bet, up to a limit. Points are essentially saying: I bet this Tribute will get x place, plus or minus three places. (Ex: Vallory will take 13th, with three points taken means that Vallory will take anywhere from 13th to 16th). You can also take points up. (Ex: Vallory will take 13th with three points down and three up would mean that Vallory will take anywhere from 10th to 16th). If you take points, and the numbers come out so that you lose the original bet, but are within your points, you only lose a percentage of the money tied to how many points off you were, instead of all the money if it's out of your point range. (Ex: You bet 1,000 Panem Monetary Units (PMUs) that Vallory will take 13th with three points in either direction. She takes 12th. You pay out 333.33 PMUS, versus 1,000 if you lost completely). The limits are no more than three points on 1st or 24th, and you can't reach to first or twenty-fourth with bets on any other place, and you can't take points for places higher than 20th that go down to below twentieth. There is also special betting, which is essentially place betting, but without points. It's most commonly used for 1st or 24th places when you're sure someone will win or die first. It's a lot of fun for those Capitolites who enjoy high-risk, high-reward. Another note: In any type of betting, you can't change your bet during a combat encounter. You can change your bet on a Tribute when they're not in combat if you realize they're not a good choice (say the careers are stalking them, or they can't find food), but if someone leaps out of the bushes at them, you've just lost your money. If the above seemed way too long, it is, and none of it besides the odds bit is important, sorry. Also, Capitol-published odds take into account all factors, interviews, alliances, training, etc.)
Official Capitol Odds:
Lustero Aldor: 1:6
Diamond Knowles: 1:10
Giselle Serpentine: 1:6
Ares Moretti: 1:6
Becquerel Grey: 1:240
Clear Palatino: 1:24
Falcon Lockdust: 1:36
Thia Zollis: 1:48
Emery Colt: 1:24
Serena Holden: 1:24
Andrew Spayler: 1:70
Harper Satin: 1:48
Aster Ochs: 1:94
Vallory Stensland: 1:24
Silk Daisly: 1:94
Rhylee Kaski: 1:118
Isaiah Lemont: 1:240
Athena Rye: 1:48
Kayne Lytch: 1:70
Kayra Dawnbreeze: 1:94
Tontu Heinburg: 1:240
Brianna Tribiani: 1:94
Char Alfand: 1:70
Camelia Lloha: 1:2400
