Peeta's eyes returned to hers and he immediately held his hands out.

"Sweetheart, why are you up? You should be-"

"Did you know?" She was crying, he knew, but her voice didn't shake; instead, it was ice-cold and stiff. Like she was trying to hold back her rage.

"Did I know what?"

"Did you know about your mother?" Peeta glanced at the file again.

"Katniss, let's sit and we can-"

"DID YOU FUCKING KNOW THAT YOUR MOTHER WAS INVOLVED IN MY FATHER'S DEATH?" He went pale, his eyes as wide as dinner plates and his jaw trembling. He took a step back, terrified of her fury. He could now see why she was the Mockingjay. He felt like he was witnessing a mythological creature, a snake with massive wings, rearing up to strike her next victim. Her eyes were narrowed and he could see thunderstorms brewing in those depths of grey. He took another step back, nearly tripping over his own feet. He held up his hands to placate her, as if such a powerful force could be calmed.

"Katniss, I have no idea what you are talking about," he said quietly and steadily.

"You better not be lying to me, Peeta. If you knew about this and you never told me, we are over. Finished. I could never forgive you."

"Then listen closely because I cannot live without you," he said desperately. "I don't know what that file contains. The only thing I have discovered about my mother is that she sold me as a child."

"And you don't know why she did that?" He shook his head, his blue eyes glassy and pleading.

"Katniss, you know I don't. We just talked about this yesterday. I have no idea why she sold me to Snow." She lifted her chin defiantly but he could tell she was weakening from standing on her injured ankle.

"Please," he took a step toward her. "Please sit on the bed so you're off that ankle, and we can read this together. Or you can tell me. Please don't think, for a second, I would ever betray you." He was caught in her fiery gaze for the longest time, until finally, she stepped back and sank onto the bed. Peeta approached her somewhat hesitantly, his hands still in the air as if she would attack again.

He sat on the edge of the bed and held out his hand for the file. Katniss gingerly handed it to him and pulled her knees to her chest.

"Before we do this, we should put more salve on your ankle. Is that alright?" He was hoping she would calm down a little before they read the file together. She nodded, her jaw clamped shut, and he hurried to the table and brought back the healing salve.

It was less swollen but still quite purple and Peeta grimaced. He gently spread the medicine over the bruised area, then quickly changed the bandages. She nodded mutely as he set the supplies on the table, then turned back to her.

"OK," he said gently. "Do you mind if I read it?"

"Go ahead," she said stiffly. "There are several tabs, with different papers relating to a topic. There is a section on you and your mother's agreement for the

Capitol to take you when you turned 16."

"But that's not what has you so upset," he chanced a look at her.

"Open to the tab with my father's name. I only skimmed, so go ahead and read aloud." Peeta obeyed and the first thing he saw was "Investigation of Ash Everdeen- Sources include Michael and Morgan Farville, M…Margaret Mellark, and Brenden Diggs". His brow furrowed as he looked quickly at her, then back at the papers. He picked up the top paper and read aloud.

"Ash Everdeen, Leader of the Rebel Party in District 12, "The Mockingjay", sentenced to death. The following is an account of witnesses' accounts. The ACCUSED has been seen attending and leading rebel meetings, filming propaganda for the rebel party, and teaching his daughter secret rebellious songs to become his successor." Peeta swallowed and looked back up at her. She was staring at the bed.

"Sources state that the ACCUSED has been involved with rebellious activity for at least 5 years. Known accomplices are Ronald Hawthorne, Thomas and Terra Ripper, and Victor Haymitch Abernathy." His wide eyes lifted from the paper and locked on Katniss's.

"Hawthorne?"

"Gale's father," she nodded. "I didn't know he was a rebel though."

"Makes sense," Peeta muttered under his breath. "Haymitch too. And Ripper? I know her husband died years ago but I never heard how."

"Keep going." He scanned the paper and picked up where he'd left off.

"Accusation came from..." he gasped and his eyes narrowed at the paper.

"From?" Katniss sounded impatient.

"Sorry. Came from Michael and Morgan Farville, with Margaret Mellark. Their original report is below:

To the office of President Corialanus Snow.

From the hands of the Farville siblings:

We siblings wish to report a crime. We are humble citizens of the Merchant class in District 12 and are loyal to the Capitol and to President Snow.

My dear sister, Margaret Mellark, made a shocking discovery exactly 2 months ago. She discovered a letter written by a coal miner by the name of Ash Everdeen. In the letter, he referred to himself as 'the Mockingjay'. The letter was addressed to District 13, and was found near the train station.

On the 3rd Saturday of last month, I, Michael M. Farville attended as a spy, a meeting of coal miners. This meeting was led by Ash Everdeen, who I quickly learned was the leader of the revolution. Yes, my gracious President, there is rebellion brewing in the districts. The coal miners discussed propaganda and how to deliver the message to the other districts. Ash spoke to the group about the need to overthrow the Capitol so the districts would no longer be oppressed. In my opinion-"

"Skip this bullshit," Katniss snarled. Peeta scanned the rest of the letter from his uncle and found Snow's notes at the bottom.

"Snow replies, 'We thank you and your brother and sister for your loyalty to Panem. We will certainly be looking into these accusations and such heinous crimes. As you know, District 13 has been completely destroyed thus there is little point of sending a letter. However, this rebellious activity will be investigated. Speak of this to no one'."

"Your uncles," she said bitterly. Peeta nodded miserably.

"I only met them a few times when I was little. They always glared at me and told my mother I was no good. I didn't feel comfortable around them so I tried to stay out of their way. When they came over to speak to Mother, I hid in the kitchen with Dad," he lowered the paper and shook his head, a terrified look covering his handsome face. "Katniss, I swear, I didn't know-"

"I believe you" she cut him off. "Keep going."

"OK, umm, here are four different letters, from someone called JabberJay to Ash Everdeen. Letters seized from rebel quarters. They all look like a warning. Look at this last one," he held it over his knee so Katniss could see it too. "Everdeen, this is my last warning. They are coming for you. You must leave District 12 immediately. If you do not, your family will be in grave danger. From, the JabberJay."

"But who was the JabberJay?" He shook his head, scanning the page, until he froze. He swallowed and picked it up to read.

"Today we discovered 'JabberJay' is in fact Margaret Mellark, sister to Michael and Morgan. Here follows her arrest statement, along with Ash Everdeen's and other accomplices. Farville brothers included Magaret in original accusation as Mrs. Mellark was the one to supposedly find the Mockingjay's letter. She will be sentenced along with the rest of the traitors.

DEATH BY HANGING IN TOWN SQUARE

Ash Everdeen

Ronald Hawthorne

Terra Ripper

Thomas Ripper

Margaret Mellark

Birch Underwood

Flint Wildersood

Olivia Springstreet

Spruce Thornerg

Ivy Collwert

Chip Pacegrove

Finch Bellwood"

"Death by hanging?" Katniss took the paper from him and studied it. "But that's… that's wrong."

"Here," he said softly, pushing the next paper into her hands.

"Advisors say do not mention rebellion or talk of it may spread. Let it die with the District 12 traitors. Haymitch Abernathy will be spared. His younger brother will be added to the list of the condemned. Instead of public execution, advisors suggest making it look like an accident.

Mines will explode in the middle of a work day, killing all traitors instantly." Peeta's voice hitched for a moment and Katniss adjusted the paper so she could read.

"Everdeen's daughter is 11 years old. Advisors argue against killing her right now. We will keep a close eye on her as she grows up.

Everdeen has a wife and two daughters. His wife is from Merchant class, daughter of Apothecary. Threats will be made against the Apothecary to ensure Everdeen's wife never inherits the business.

Advisors also suggest keeping a close eye on Victor Abernathy. He will undoubtedly want to help Everdeen's family."

Peeta set the paper down and let out a long breath.

"Fuck," he finally said.

"What are these pages right here?"

"Not sure… oh. An account from Peacekeepers confirming the mining accident was a success. Many dead. Threat has been eliminated. Medals of honor and food parcels will be delivered to victims' families." Katniss longed to tear the paper from his hands and rip it to shreds.

"Wait a second…" she glanced at his face and saw he had gone even more pale.

"What is it?" Peeta started to shake, suddenly unable to hold the paper in his hand. She gently took it and lay her other hand over his.

"Margaret Mellark was spared, as she does not work in the mines. Peacekeepers will arrest her at home.

"President Snow,

We visited the Mellark residence this afternoon and the woman became hysterical. She pleaded for us to spare her and promised she would do anything in exchange.

Mme. Mellark has three sons. Older two look built and strong. Youngest is slightly pudgy and only 10 years old.

We await your orders on how to proceed."

"Slightly pudgy," Peeta mumbled under his breath as Katniss continued to read.

"I visited the Mellark residence this past Thursday. Bakery is worthless, the building is run-down and will need renovations soon. Margaret Mellark begged for her life and I agreed to spare her, in exchange for one of her sons." Peeta's head shot up, his eyes wild. Katniss gave him a sympathetic look before looking down again.

"Should I read to myself?"

"No," he said sharply, before inhaling deeply. "I can handle it." She took his hand and squeezed.

"Advisors suggested taking one of the Mellark boys to train as a Peacekeeper. The oldest does not have the look of a soldier. I told the woman I would take the 2nd oldest and she threw a fit. She offered her youngest, 10 year old Peeta Mellark. After studying the boy, I announced that he would make a decent soldier when he gets older. He will, in reality, be transferred to the Gaul Laboratory for genetic experiments involving mutation and medical sciences. I told Mme. Mellark I would return to collect him the next day. Mme. Mellark protested, saying he was too young. I explained to her that he would be raised in the Capitol and would be trained as soon as he became of age. Contract included below:

I, Margaret F. Mellark, agree to transfer my son, Peeta Mellark, to the possession of the Capitol. All crimes against me will be pardoned and I will never speak of this contract to anyone, lest Mellark Bakery will be burned to the ground.

The Capitol may take my son as soon as they see fit to return to the Capitol.

I agree to relinquish all parental rights over Peeta Mellark and no longer see him as a citizen of District 12 but property of Panem and the Capitol.

Signed,

Margaret F. Mellark

Katniss lowered the paper and stared up at Peeta in horror. He looked like he was about to be very ill and seconds later, was making a beeline for the bathroom. He collapsed over the toilet as his stomach lurched violently. He didn't hear her footsteps behind him, and he jumped when he felt her hands in his sweaty hair. He shuddered as he leaned back and wiped his hand on the back of his mouth. Katniss sat behind him and wiped at him with a wet towel. He allowed her to pull him back into her arms while she gently tended to him. She wiped his mouth and the sweat from his cheeks, before folding it and pressing it against his forehead. He turned and hid his face in her shirt.

"You shouldn't be up. Your ankle-"

"Will you let someone take care of you for once," she bit back, but her tone was gentle.

"You've said that to me before. Real?"

"Real," she affirmed. "When you were whipped and we were trying to get you to the Capitol as soon as we could. You were dying in my arms and you still insisted on staying strong."

"I have to be strong," he said with a trembling voice. "People are looking to me to lead them. I have to protect them, and you."

"You don't have to be strong with me," she stroked his forehead. "Those papers were horrific. Sure we know the truth now but at what cost? My sanity has reached an endpoint and I don't know how you're still holding on, given everything you've been through."

"Let's take a little nap," he said, ignoring her statement. "We will finish going through the file later." She nodded and allowed him to lift her off the floor. He set her back in bed and took a moment to brush his teeth and wash his face, before he returned to her on the bed. They lay on their sides, facing each other, and Peeta reached out to stroke Katniss's cheek. At the same time, she reached up to trail a finger across his lips.

"All this time… I thought they took me because they thought I would actually make a good soldier. But they wanted me for experiments! I was sold for experiments! I was 10 years old and they-"

"Shh," she pressed a single finger to his lips. "Rest now. I'll watch over you as you sleep."

He wanted to protest but he was too mentally exhausted. He was still trembling and he peeked at her through one eye.

"Sing to me?" She obliged and he was out before she made it to the chorus.


Back in District 13, Coin answered the incoming call from the Capitol.

"Colonel Jackson," she said smoothly as she told them to put the call through.

"President Coin, ma'am. We have successfully landed and set up camp at the Capitol border. Our battle meeting is tonight and we will brief the second round of soldiers when they arrive."

"Very good, Colonel. The hovercraft will be leaving at 0400 tomorrow. I will send along more weapons and medical supplies with them."

"Thank you, Madame President. I will alert you when they have joined our ranks tomorrow." Coin disconnected the call and smiled at her Board of Advisors.

"Dispatch a message to the district. More soldiers will join the rebel ranks in the Capitol tomorrow. Hovercraft leaves the hangar at 0400. We are expecting many volunteers." Two of her soldiers bowed and swiftly left the room.


Bran picked up the roll from his tray and dropped it, wincing when he heard it hit with a thud. After several times of this, Margaret slammed her palm down.

"We get it, Bran, your bread is far superior to District 13's."

"I don't think Bran meant that at all," April frowned as she shifted her son in her arms. Bran blinked in surprise.

"Did one of you say something?" Margaret's face was flaming but April gave him a sympathetic smile.

"No Bran. But you should try to eat something. I notice you haven't been eating."

"Oh don't you worry your head about an old man like me," he gave her a smile. "I'm just fine."

"I married your son, Bran. All three of your boys are out there fighting. You can let your guard down around your family, you know. Kisra and I love you, don't we son?" He noticed she had intentionally left our Margaret, who also sat right there. He also noticed that his wife hadn't bothered to correct April.

"Let me see my grandson," he smiled as he reached across the table. Kisra turned in his arms and pressed his face to his grandfather's shirt.

"He looks like Bing for sure but he has so much of Peeta inside him," he said fondly.

"I know you must miss him," April said gently. "But it must comfort you to know that he is safe, and back with the woman he loves."

"It does," Bran nodded, cradling Kisra closely. "But it just makes me think I should be doing more."

"Then why don't you go to the Capitol and join our sons," Margaret said, sounding almost bored! April's face darkened.

"He does not need to do that. He-"

"Perhaps you're right, Margaret," Bran glanced up. "My sons are fighting in the war, why shouldn't I be with them?" He stood and placed Kisra back in his mother's arms.

"Bran, you don't-" April trailed off and her face fell as she watched her father-in-law hurry away. She turned back to Margaret, her eyes flashing.

"You have got to be the most horrid woman I have ever met. I cannot possibly comprehend how you gave birth to the three sweetest boys in Panem. Your bitterness is poison, Margaret. And I no longer see why I should eat my meals with you." She stood up, ignoring her mother-in-law's shocked expression, and carried her tray through the cafeteria. In truth, she had hoped Margaret would be better, after she had come to see her son a few nights ago.

Bing had told her his mother held the baby lovingly and had fondness in her eyes. She had hoped, with Kisra being her first grandchild, that the baby would warm Margaret's heart somewhat.

But that hadn't seemed to happen. She was as cold as ever and April just needed to get away from the woman.

She paused near the back, seeing a lonely looking woman sitting by herself. She hesitantly approached and her eyes met dazzling blue-green eyes.

"Hi Annie… my name is April, and this is my son Kisra. Do you mind if we join you?" Annie politely gestured for them to sit down.

"You're married to one of the Mellarks, is that correct?"

"Bing, the eldest," April nodded. "And Kisra here is just a few weeks old." She lowered her arms so Annie could see the baby.

"He's beautiful," she spoke so softly.

"I know you must be so worried for Finnick. Bing just left to join the troops and I just can't seem to stop crying."

"They know what they are fighting for," Annie replied. "What kind of world they are fighting for. I am sure Bing wants his son to grow up in a world better than the one we grew up in." April smiled down at her son.

"How do you like it here, in 13?" Annie looked around and shook her head.

"I miss the sea. The tossing waves. The sun always shining. I am ready to touch sand again."

"It sounds lovely," April said wistfully. "I think I would like to live near the ocean. Do you think after this war, we will be able to go where we like? No more travel bans?"

"If the good side wins, good things will happen," Annie said, slightly cryptic. April stiffened and stared at her. She had always heard that the young Victor was slightly… off. But Annie shook herself and then struck up a pleasant conversation again. April even giggled a few times, enjoying the company and grateful that she had finally stood up to her mother in law and sat somewhere else. She was sure Bing would be disappointed, always wanting his family to get along. But she'd had enough. Margaret was an awful person and there was really no excuse. She had been called the Witch back home and she could certainly understand why.

"You no longer sit with your in-laws," Annie observed.

"Oh… yeah, my mother-in-law is… a lot. And I think my father-in-law is going to the Capitol tomorrow. His wife encouraged him to do it."

"I have heard talk of her. Finnick says she is cold."

"Understatement of the year," April shook her head. "But she took a liking to me. Can't say I ever reciprocated those feelings but I at least tried to be a good daughter-in-law. It doesn't much matter to me anymore. My

husband is at war and I'll be damned if I allow that woman to treat my son the way she has treated her sons."

"Poor Peeta," Annie said, in that wistful, far-away voice. "So gentle and kind. To still be that way, after being raised by a woman like that." April couldn't help but agree. Bing had told her things about Peeta, and the way their mother treated him when he was young. Besides, she was no idiot. She had grown up close by and always saw the bruises on the youngest Mellark boy.

Her arms tightened around her son protectively until he made a little cry and she realized she was practically squeezing him.

"I'm sorry, sweet boy," she nuzzled his head. "I will never strike my child. Never."

"His world will be different, darling April," Annie said, her eyes glazing over. "He will know love like we have never known."

April had the uncomfortable feeling that the young woman was seeing right into her soul.


Katniss heard heavy footsteps and forced herself to open her eyes. She was entangled in a pair of arms, her back pressed to a warm chest. Soft breath tickled the back of her neck and she wanted to close her eyes and sink back into his embrace. Doctor Everett appeared around the corner and she struggled to sit up.

"Ah, my apologies for waking you, Mrs. Mellark."

"I was awake," she whispered, attempting to remove herself from Peeta's arms. "I'm glad you're here. I think Peeta might need something."

"Oh? Has he had another accident?"

"Not an accident, no, but he had somewhat of a panic attack earlier. He passed out as soon as we hit the bed."

"He seems just fine to me," he said, leaning over to inspect Peeta. "What about your ankle? How does it feel?"

"Sore," she admitted. "Peeta has been keeping me off my feet and we have been putting the salve on like you said."

"May I?" She nodded and he knelt beside the bed and took her foot in his hands. She hissed in pain and a flash of concern crossed his eyes before he continued to inspect her injury.

"The swelling has gone down a little but not much. Katniss, you will not be able to walk on this injury."

"The invasion is supposedly in 2 days! What if I-"

"You won't be healed by then," he said gently. "This is close to a fracture and if you further aggravate it, it could become more serious in the long run. I would feel better, and I know Peeta would agree with me, if you stayed close to HQ. Unless Peeta carries you on his back, you won't be able to fight the Peacekeepers."

"Can't you give me some of that super serum to speed up the healing?" Everett's eyes widened slightly.

"That serum was created specifically for Peeta. His blood is mixed into the concoction. I have no idea how it might affect you."

"Peeta thinks Snow will use it on his peacekeepers."

"Does he?" He cast Peeta a frown.

"Is that possible? I mean… what would Peeta's blood do to the soldiers?"

"It is not Peeta's blood that concerns me," he shook his head. "One of the reasons, I believe, that the serum worked on him is whatever magical properties are in his blood." Katniss's eyes widened as she sat up straighter.

"So you believe it too? That Peeta is some kind of magical being?"

"Mrs. Mellark, I have studied science and medicine for a very long time. I have seen some of the notes on the experiments they conducted on him. General Duartyr informed me how much tracker-jacker venom had been injected into him. I will say, in my professional opinion, that he would not have survived all of that if he wasn't magical. I refuse to betray his trust and study him, as was suggested, but I do believe something inside him is protecting him."

"So if that serum is used on other soldiers… the magical whatever in his blood could be passed on to them too," she said faintly.

"And they would be protected," he nodded. "It's a theory."

"You said someone suggested you should study him… who?"

"It doesn't matter. I immediately refused. The boy has been through enough."

"Damn right he has. But who wants to turn him into another experiment? Someone on our side, you mean?"

"As I said, it is irrelevant. I brought along a syringe of medical-grade serum that helps with pain and healing, for anyone who might need it. I will administer it to you if you wish but it would be… well, I won't lie to you. It would be quite painful. In your case, it's injected directly into the bone. Usually you are administered anesthesia beforehand but I did not bring anything like that."

"Do you think I would be ready to fight?"

"I cannot say, Katniss. This will speed up the healing but I don't know if the ankle will be healed enough for you to walk or run on."

"Give it to me," she said immediately, holding out her leg. He dug through his bag and withdrew a rather large syringe with an even larger needle. He glanced at Peeta and gestured toward him.

"You may want to wake him up."

"Why?"

"Because I am fairly certain your pained scream will wake him up and terrify him." Sighing, she leaned over and shook her husband awake. His eyes fluttered and he gave her a sleepy grin.

"Hey you," she leaned in close and kissed his forehead. "How are you feeling?"

"Better. Did you sleep?"

"Yeah, until Doctor Everett came upstairs." Peeta's brow furrowed and he leaned up, his eyes widening.

"Hey Doc."

"Peeta," the doctor nodded to him. Peeta then noticed the syringe in his hand and turned to Katniss with a questioning look in his eyes.

"Doctor Everett brought some pretty powerful medicine to help with the healing. It's going to be injected in my ankle bone, and he says it's pretty painful. I was hoping I could squeeze your hand if it's too much."

"Of course you can," he sat up, allowing her to lean against him. "Will this work?" He glanced up at the doctor. Everett had dragged a chair over and had Katniss's ankle in his grasp.

"As I explained to her, it will speed up the healing process, sort of working like your serum. But I do not know if she will be ready to fight in a few days. Peeta, give her something to bite down on." Peeta looked around, his brow furrowed in bemusement.

"Just bite down on my hand," he whispered.

"Peeta, no. Give me your belt." He bent down to search through the pile of clothes and withdrew his leather belt that had been provided to him in 2. He handed it to her and she gritted her teeth before positioning the belt in her

mouth.

"Take a deep breath, Katniss," Everett instructed. Katniss did as she was told and turned to look at Peeta as he lowered the needle.

Not even his loving blue eyes could block what happened next. Pain exploded, not just in her ankle, but her entire leg. She went white as she screamed in pain, the belt falling to the floor. She hid her face in Peeta's shirt but the soft material could not completely muffle her screams. He clung to her hands, ignoring the shooting pain in his knuckles as she squeezed hard.

"Bear with me, Katniss," the doctor was saying. "Just a bit more." He finished squeezing the plunger, which caused an agonized wail to echo off the walls. Peeta raised his hand to her lips and winced as her teeth dug into his flesh. Her scream was muffled by his soft skin and he didn't pull away when he saw blood trickling down his hand.

"Katniss?" Peeta heard Prim's worried voice on the stairs and rushed to answer.

"We're fine, Prim. Doctor Everett is here." Prim appeared in the doorway, looking concerned and Peeta glanced over at her. Katniss was shaking in his arms, her face buried in his shirt, and Doctor Everett was replacing the

covering on the needle.

"I'm leaving you some pills for pain, Katniss, in case that injection starts to burn a little. Continue applying the salve and new bandages and I'll inspect it before the fighting begins."

"Does Leo want you to stay around for the fighting?"

"He does, and Miss Primrose here has been ever so gracious in helping me set my office up downstairs. I've inspected the supplies that President Coin has sent and frankly, I'm a bit surprised. I'd have expected better medicines from District 13."

"Doesn't surprise me in the least," Peeta muttered.

"Alright, I need to check on Hawthorne's stitches and check on everyone else. Peeta, how is your injury?"

"Gone, Doc," he lifted his pant leg to show him. "I'm fine. But I was hoping to talk to you about the super serum."

"Katniss and I already discussed- Peeta, you are bleeding!" Peeta looked embarrassed and tried to hide his hand but Everett grabbed it and held it up to his face.

"Was the belt not acceptable?"

"It fell out of her mouth and she was about to grind her teeth to the point of disintegration," he protested. "She's not a mutt, my finger is fine."

"No stitches are needed but I'll put salve on it and wrap it up anyway. I need you to both stop getting injured, as the rest of the troops will be looking to you in their fighting." Katniss hid her face and refused to look at him as the doctor wrapped his finger.

"Doesn't look that serious. Now then, Katniss and I discussed the serum a little but it is something to include in the war talks this evening. Tigris is making dinner for everyone, so we will have the soldiers coming from camp."

"Wait, all of the soldiers are coming here? Who is going to watch the camp?"

"Leo said they will have perimeter guards. But this place will be very full, so I'm going to get started. Primrose, would you like to assist me?" Nodding eagerly, she allowed him to pass and followed him downstairs. Peeta's fingers gently massaged Katniss's shoulders and he helped her sit up when she started to lean away.

"Oh my god," she said through gritted teeth, her eyes still full of tears. "I am so sorry, Peeta. I can't believe I did that! I'm sure there will be a scar and-"

"Easy," he said firmly. "Your teeth aren't nearly as sharp as that mutt's was. But I'll gladly take any scar you give me, if it means you're in no more pain." He cupped her chin and gave her a sad smile. "I'm just fine, love. Let me put a pillow under your foot." She cried out when he lifted it as gently as he could. When he looked back at her, he shook his head.

"There is no way you can fight in that much pain."

"He said the injection would speed up the healing process," she grimaced. "I should be all healed by the time we move through the Capitol."

"Katniss-"

"Peeta, you can't talk me out of this. I am fighting by your side. I owe him so much. I want to deliver, and deliver well." Sighing, he pressed a kiss to her forehead.

"Ok my fierce songbird, we'll see. So you and Doc talked about the serum, did you?"

"I just basically asked him if it would be possible to inject the serum into the peacekeepers, and he looked worried."

"So it is possible?" She fixed him with a sympathetic look.

"He believes you have something magical in your blood and it could be passed onto the Peacekeepers, leaving them protected." Peeta tried to hide his frustration.

"I don't know why everyone insists on making me special, when I'm not."

"Peeta, THINK about it. Everett pointed out that you survived all those experiments in 2, all that tracker-jacker venom in your blood, everything you have been through! It's because you're magical." Peeta huffed and ran a hand through his hair.

"Let's keep going through this file then. Maybe there's something about… I dunno, finding something special about me?"

"Will you stop saying that," she said sharply as he leaned over to pick up the file. He turned back to her, surprised.

"You are extremely special. Everything inside you is special. And you have no idea how important you are to me.

Understand?" His lips curled up into a smile and he leaned forward to kiss her.

"My fierce songbird," he said again. "How I love you."

"I love you too." He sighed contentedly, his eyes slamming shut at the sound of it.

"Can I ask…" he opened his eyes, looking hesitant. "Can I ask you… why..."

"Why it took me so long to say it?" Blinking, he nodded. She could always know what he was thinking.

"My dad was the last person I said it to," she glanced down at the blankets. "The morning he died. I didn't ever want to say it to anyone else. I didn't really say it to Prim or my mom, and I couldn't say it to you. I loved you so much and couldn't say it. That night you were whipped… when you called me out. You said you knew I loved you but you asked why I couldn't say the words. I didn't want to say it then, because I was so afraid you would die. I was horrible, Peeta. I was awful to you and I should have said… I dunno, maybe the venom would have failed and you wouldn't have forgotten. I'm sorry it took me so long." He smiled as he wiped at her tears with his thumbs.

"Better late than never," he said with a smug air about him. She started to hit him when he pulled her closer so he could conquer her lips.

"You are my everything, Katniss Mellark," he panted against her lips.

"I love you, Peeta," she said before surging forward for another kiss. Peeta groaned as he felt his pants tightening and he reluctantly pulled back. She glanced down at him then back up into his eyes, with a smirk forming on her delectable lips.

"Don't give me that look," he growled. "Not unless you want me to take you right here and forget about all those people downstairs. Remember, I can be quiet but you seem incapable of holding back your screams." She gave him an indifferent shrug with a giggle, as she leaned back.

"Ok," he forced himself to calm down and focus. "That was all that was under that tab. There's one that is labeled "collection schedule of Peeta Mellark"."

"Let's try it," she said softly, moving closer to his side. He wrapped an arm around her shoulder and she straightened the file and papers out on her knees.

"Newest Capitol Acquisition: Peeta Mellark, 10 year old son of Bran and Margaret Mellark of District 12.

Dear Dr. Gaul,

I am pleased to inform you I have found you a suitable subject for human experimentation in your laboratory. Subject is a 10 year old from District 12 and his mother has signed him over to the Capitol. The boy comes from strong stock though he is quite chubby for his age (family owns a bakery) We will be collecting the boy tomorrow and will return to the Capitol in 2 days time. Please prepare any grants that are needed for muttation experimentation. When we spoke in my office last week, I was delighted to hear of your plans for this year's Hunger Games. Perhaps we can acquire more children to assist us with this experiment.

The boy has blue eyes and blonde hair, just so you are aware. Skin alterations have been approved, should you need to change his coloring at all. He is quite fair-skinned.

Fondly,

Corialianus

"Change my coloring," Peeta asked faintly, shaking his head in bemusement.

"These people are just… barbaric," Katniss muttered, remembering Cinna's words from when they first met.

"He planned to turn me into a mutt," Peeta said, looking horror-struck. "Like… an actual mutt, to hunt tributes down in the Games. I wonder if anyone would have recognized me."

"Stop thinking about it," she shook her head. "Look, here's another one, right below it.

Dear Dr. Gaul,

I'll admit my day ended with an unsettling tone. Upon leaving our newest acquisition's home, I stumbled upon an old woman as my soldiers and I were returning to our hovercraft for the night. I believe her to be a legitimate witch. Appearance was hideous to behold, but she pointed at Mellark House and warned me of dark magic stirring in District 12. That the district is protected by a magical force and that I should leave immediately. I called for the woman's arrest but lightning and thunder caught soldiers and me off guard. I asked her of the youngest Mellark boy and explained that he was to be a Peacekeeper in the Capitol. The witch knew I was lying, Dr. Gaul, and said she knew what I really had planned for the boy. She told me he was protected and that he was bound to District 12 by magic until his 16th birthday. After that, he would become a Peacekeeper in my army. On his birthday, the magic would break and he would be able to leave the district. Since I made arrangements with the boy's mother, the boy is supposed to return to the Capitol with us tomorrow. I will return in the morning, as planned.

Perhaps we should rethink his purpose. Surely there are ways to extract magical blood. Perhaps even torture, to test the boy's limits. You know, Doctor, I would, in most cases, refuse to take these steps toward a child but I believe this could be an excellent opportunity for the Capitol.

This boy could be the key to antidotes for sickness, or new weapons that we haven't even dreamed of. I will bring him straight to the laboratory, subdued and bound. I am excited for the possibilities.

Fondly,

Corialianus

"Sick son of a bitch," Katniss spat. Peeta was quiet, his eyes re-reading the words about him. About his almost-fate. It shouldn't be a surprise, really. Children were forced to kill each other on live television. What was the difference in that and torturing a child because he was thought to be magical?

Dear Dr. Gaul,

I ordered an escort to deliver the boy to the Capitol. We have just received word of the boy's escort's death, may he rest in peace. The boy returned to his house. I have written the boy's mother a letter, instructing her to keep him until his 16th birthday. We will return for him then. When he turns 16, we will drain his blood and cut him open to discover what protects him. Save all of your research for a few years, Doctor. We will have him soon enough.

Fondly,

Corialianus

Corialanus,

Enough with the back and forth. Since the boy is legally ours, I will arrange a hovercraft to take to 12, where we can conduct our experiments. With your permission, I can use Victor's Village for my lab. We don't have to wait until he is 16, we will begin the experiments immediately. I will ready the laboratory supplies.

Sincerely,

M. Gaul

Peeta inhaled sharply but he shook his head when Katniss offered to stop. She discreetly wiped tears from her eyes as the words swam in front of her.

"I want to know what is inside me," he said angrily., moving to the next page.

Here follows an account from soldiers dispatched to bring Peeta Mellark to the Capitol on his 16th birthday.

President Snow,

It has come to our attention that Mellark has not yet turned 16. This concerns us, as the last time an attempt to remove him from the district was made, the soldiers mysteriously died. We request an extension on the orders and wait until he has turned 16.

Please respond with how you would like to proceed.

Captain Orex,

Captain,

Proceed with the order. Bring the boy to Gaul Laboratory.

In the hand of Corialanus Snow, President of Panem.

President Snow,

My men retrieved the target and his brother tonight. They are transporting them to the Capitol as we speak. Their parents have been told that we are taking both of them for Peacekeeper training. You should know that both boys have a reputation for being excellent fighters and both look strong. They would, indeed, make fine Peacekeepers for your army.

President Snow,

My men are dead. They barely reached the border last night and all collapsed suddenly. The boys have been transferred to Peacekeepers from next district. Journey will continue.

President Snow,

The Peacekeepers from 11 are dead as well. More soldiers have been assigned to the mission and will continue the journey.

Will update.

President Snow,

Peacekeepers barely made it over the border of 10 before collapsing. Boys remained locked up in the wagon. We are transferring the boys to a hovercraft for the remainder of the journey but no pilot will agree to it.

Please advise.

Dear Dr. Gaul,

My nerves are at their limits. As you know, we have been trying to escort Peeta Mellark to the Capitol for some time now. His brother and he are on their way but their escorts keep mysteriously dying. I am reminded of the witch I met 6 years ago, when I first tried to bring the boy to you. My Captain urged me to wait, as the boy has not yet turned 16.

I am desperate for your advice.

Corialianus

President Snow,

Thank you for your correspondence. Hovercraft pilot did unfortunately pass away but the crew managed to land craft in 2. Peacekeepers drove the boys to Peacekeeper Headquarters. Commander Duartyr signed them in and assigned them bunkers. Please advise, if you'd like target to remain in 2, or be brought to the Capitol.

Update: Peeta Mellark has reached District 2. As it turns out, he turned 16 as they crossed the border into 2. No further magic should interrupt.

I received a call from Commander Duartyr of District 2, who reports that both boys are in good health and have the makings of good soldiers. I will allow Peeta Mellark to go through with training.

Instructions for experiments have been sent on from Dr. Gaul to Peacekeeper HQ. I am still fascinated by whatever protection that Mellark has inside him and have urged Dr. Gaul to continue the "super soldier" experiments from the Dark Days."

Peeta waited and when Katniss didn't continue, he held out his hand.

"What else?"

"It… ends there," she said, frowning at the paper.

"What?" He grabbed it and flipped it over, as if something were hidden on the back.

"So we still have no idea if they found anything in my blood. I just read all of this horrifying stuff about wanting to drain me because of my magic and I still don't know if I even have any!" Katniss turned to him and wrapped her arms around him. His face was flushed, his breathing was heavy, and his beautiful blue eyes had turned dark.

"That's enough reading. Let's go downstairs and see if we can help at all." His nostrils flaring, Peeta nodded and turned to move off the bed. Katniss watched him, his back turned to her, and she bit her lip.

"Peeta-" she reached out to touch his shoulder but he moved out of her reach quickly.

"I'm going to see if Tigris needs help with dinner. I'll be right back to take you downstairs." She winced at his clipped, cold tone. He didn't look back as he stomped down the stairs, his footsteps thundering in her heart.


Plutarch made his way through the crowd of soldiers who had come to the hangar to travel to the Capitol. Well, not soldiers exactly. These were farmers and miners and grocers and musicians. He spotted the Baker from District 12, polishing a rifle. The man was probably a bit younger than Plutarch was. Yet he was going off to battle.

The old Gamemaker forced a smile as he nodded and shook hands with the newest recruits.

"The Mockingjay needs you," he said jovially. "Your sacrifice will not be in vain. Together, we will create a new Panem."

Plutarch waved as the recruits made their way onto the hovercraft and he quickly turned away. He ran smack dab into Cinna, and blinked in surprise.

"Why Cinna, what are you doing here?"

"Chase and I want to fight," Cinna squeezed his husband's hand. "Katniss is our friend and we would rather be by her side than sit here in 13, making uniforms." He was about to speak when someone else surprised him.

"Mrs. Everdeen… are you quite sure-?"

"That those soldiers will need Healers during this war? Yes. My daughters are both in the Capitol, why should I stay behind?"

"Did- Did President Coin give you permission-?"

"I don't need permission to fight for my country," her blue eyes flashed. "I'm no good with a gun but I can tend to the soldiers who are. Excuse me, Mr. Heavensbee." Plutarch moved to the side as Violet, Cinna, and Chase fell into line.

Once everyone was strapped in and the hovercraft had taken off, Bran looked around the sea of faces around him. His eyes widened when he saw familiar blue eyes looking back at him, and he quickly unbelted himself so he could slide into the empty seat next to her.

"I'm surprised to see you here."

"I could say the same about you but since all 3 of your sons are fighting, it doesn't really surprise me. You were always a decent man."

"I feel better now, knowing if I get injured, you'll be there to take care of me." Violet blushed and looked out the window.

"Are you ready for all of this? So much is about to change."

"The country has been needing change for so long. Who would have thought that it would be our children to actually step forward to make those changes?"

"I'm scared, Bran." He looked quickly at her and saw silent tears streaming down her cheeks. His hand slipped into hers and gave a comforting squeeze. He was usually better with words but right now, all he could do was send all of his strength to her through his tender touch.