Garo Versus Games

ESKK: Well a new chapter please enjoy it.

(Start Hidden Location)

The dark figure was no longer wearing a cloak as he sat on his chair observing the Tributes as they made their way to the Capital. He paid the world no mind as they prepared for the Hunger Games. The Seneca tend to focus on creating the field in which the games would take place. But seeing as he had become one of them himself he had no choice but to participate. Already he had the Gates strategically set up so when the Games began Horrors would join in no problem.

Though he still had other things to worry about such as staying out of the radar of the Order. He paid in little mind none the less seeing as everything was going exactly as he had anticipated thus far. But his curiosity grew over the subject of Garo... will the armor be tainted by darkness or will the user stand victorious over the dark. He cannot deny his curiosity was getting the better of him but for now he simply had to wait and see where this would all go. For now his best option would be to wait and see what the end result would be.

(Scene Break Train Ride Katniss)

Katniss sat on the train as it traveled across the tracks when Morning came. The Night before was one of revelations that she had not anticipated. Honestly monsters from Hell who possess humans kept secret to the world to protect it. Warriors of the armor devoted to hunting down these monsters. Even though she saw Alex don that armor as Garo and saw the Horror in person she still had trouble believing such things. And worst of all it was how he ended the tale was that got her worried.

"Someone wanted Prim in the games." Katniss said as she realized the selection was rigged somehow using the same 'magic,' that kept the Knights and Alchemists from being chosen as Tributes. Katniss realized she saved her sister from becoming a victim of this by taking her place and whoever did this she basically put a wedge in their plans. She found herself having trouble sleeping the night before after all that she learned. Her nightmares were of Prim either being eaten by one of these Horror or becoming one of them and slaughtering all of their loved ones. It truly was a nightmare for Katniss on either count because she held no illusion she'd try to protect her sister if she became a Horror... even go as far as to perform evil acts to keep her hunger sedated.

Katniss saw the TV in the room and saw the reporters on it speaking of passed Hunger Games and their favorite parts of it. As she saw this she turned off the TV and began to head out to meet with Alex and Haymitch. Despite the drunk being who he was he was still their mentor for the 74 Annual Hunger Games.

(With Alex)

Alex was sitting across from Haymitch as nearby Effie was powdering her nose and applying her makeup trying to look her best. The two boys were eating as Alex made sure to keep the Garoken well-hidden as a dagger under his coat. "Ok I get freezing to death is preferable then having a camp fire but did you consider defenses and traps for your camp or shelter?" Alex asked as he honestly wanted to punch this guy who clearly had a hangover right now.

"If you have time and find the tools sure." Haymitch said as he looked to Alex while trying to wake up with breakfast. "But 9 times out of 10 you won't get either." Haymitch said as Alex was willing to bet that he can do it easily.

'Keep calm, don't flip. Keep calm.' Alex mentally chanted to himself as Zaruba was a help with that thank God for that. "Then what do you suggest as opposed to freezing to death?" Alex asked as he was only asking for Katniss sake knowing full well she had a younger sister and a mother to return home to.

"Well other than starting a camp fire, you could keep close to your partner and share body heat is the best guess, as any other way is just a good way to get killed," Haymitch said as suddenly Katniss came into the car silently and made herself known as she said, "What's a good way to get killed."

"Oh joy, why don't you join us?" Haymitch said as he grab a jug and pour himself a cup of Joe as he said, "I'm just giving some lifesaving advice."

"Like what?" Katniss asked as she walk over to the table as Alex said, "Asking him of how to find shelter, so far not getting very far."

"Well it would come in handy if you were still alive," Haymitch said as he grab himself some more food for his plate as Katniss asked him, "How do you find shelter?"

Hay didn't answer her as he just looked around on the table as he saw what he wanted and said, "Pass the jam."

"How do you find shelter?" Katniss asked with a stronger tone as Hay drop his fork and said, "Give me a chance to wake up sweetheart."

Suddenly hay pull out a flask as he said, "This mentoring is very taxing stuff." as he open the flask and about to pour alcohol into his cup until Alex reach out and grab the flask and said, "And this will kill you regardless."

"Maybe but I least I get to enjoy my life a little longer than most others," Haymitch said as he reach out and took it back and pour it in his cup of coffee before he put it away and said as he reach out his hand, "Can you pass the marmalade."

before he could grab it Katniss grab the knife by her plate and stab it between Haymitch's fingers as Effie gasp out and said, "That is mahogany!"

"Shut up already, nobody cares. So unless you have something that is actually useful to add to this little conversation, then I suggest you keep quiet," Alex said as he was already tired of hearing that woman's voice as Effie just give a small scolding look before going back powdering her nose... like it needed more, as Haymitch said, "Look at you, you just killed a place mat."

He remove the knife from the table with a bit of force as it seem it was stuck in the wood as he said to the two, "You really wanna know how to stay alive? You get people to like you."

Katniss was a bit taken back by that with Alex had a calm look as it seem there was another element to the games that he didn't full know, as he knew people get equipment and more weapon in the games to finish faster or finishing it with some entertainment but he thought it could be how the games were set up with Haymitch said, "Oh! Not what you were expecting."

Haymitch reach for with the knife he just pulled out from the table and gotten his jam as he said while spreading the jam over his toast, "Well, when you're in the middle of the games, and you're starving or freezing, some water, a knife or even some matches can mean the difference between life and death. And those things only come from sponsors, and to get sponsors, you have to make people like you."

Katniss went silent after that as it seem there was the first task she and Alex needs to do is to get sponsors, And right now it didn't seem great at the moment as Haymitch said, "And right now sweetheart, you're not off to a real good start."

"Doesn't mean we won't get any, as if we can get at least one, then that could be the tipping point," Alex said as he knew what he is talking about as there was at least one sponsor that will support them, and that is the Makai order as if any other group could help them get out of the games alive it would be them.

Zaruba agreeing to this as whatever is happening in the hunger games, they chosen Alex for a reason and many others that are most likely to turn into horrors or be eaten by them, and the order would do everything in their power to make it so they can come out alive and if possible stop the hungers games completely and get humanity back to its peaceful times.

"Well at least you staying positive about, it won't help but at least you might feel good about this," Haymitch said as soon enough from the train car window Alex saw the capital in the distant as he said, "We're here."

Everyone turn to the window and saw the capital coming up as it was a huge city, surrounded by water. Alex never been to the capital before as he lived in and out of the 12 Districts with his before with his mother and father before, and now his siblings, his only living family he has left as Zaruba spoken within their mental connection, "I sense much Inga within that city."

Then we better keep our guard up," Alex spoken mentally as the site of the city vanish as the train enter a tunnel as light flashes in the train as they soon arrived at the station with many people were waiting and cheering out for them.

As Alex saw them all he knew why they were cheering for him and he absolutely hated it. He looked around the crowd while waving to them feigning interest and happiness at being here. If a member of the Makai Order was here he would spot them a mile away. It wasn't long until he saw one of the wealthy members of the Capitals people standing among the crowd calmly applauding the train blending in.

It was a female with blond hair pulled into an odd cut with one side being brazed and the other side flowing with ornaments hanging off her dress. But the ornaments were clearly Madou Tools as he saw their design and knew instantly he found his contact. She then walked up flicking her earing that had an idol like ornament on it as it rung about to which Zaruba added.

'I detect her magic she's the one we're looking for.' Zaruba spoke showing he was fully aware of who they needed to meet.

(Scene Break)

In a live show an interview was going on as the anchor looked to his guest. "Now that you've seen them are there any surprised we could expect this year?" The man asked as his guest looked to him unaware of a surprise guest waiting to me allowed in.

"It's hard to tell just from the reaping but I think this is a very interesting mix." He began to which his host nodded. "Whenever you have a volunteer from an outline district something you can't ignore." He said to which the anchor nodded.

"Well then there is actually someone who would say otherwise." The Anchor said surprising the Seneca. "Ladies and Gentlemen coming out of his early and well-earned retirement reintroducing Mr. Neo Barbados." The Anchor said and thus the crowd all cheered and even whistled as from the side of the stage a man with ebony black hair slicked to the side walking in wearing a black suit but clearly not funeral wear with hands covered in the oddest of jewelry and a pair of odd looking earrings on his person.

"Well this is a surprise." The Seneca said surprised to see Neo here of all times.

"Yes I had heard about our odd mix and I found myself intrigued by them." Neo said as he took a seat next to his newest partner in this project.

"Yes Neo is most famous for his part in producing the 70th Annual Hunger Games and I must say that one was a crowd favorite, after he later played an advisory role to the next 3 games before taking an early retirement leaving the shoes to his successor here." The Anchor summarized as Neo smiled to them as his smile made woman swoon and men envious.

"I'm actually taking a great deal of pleasure in my return to the spot light." Neo confessed as he looked to the Anchor.

"So should we expect a repeat of the 70th Hunger Games?" The anchor asked to which Neo smiled to them.

"I always favored surprise endings in these things and those last two games garnered an odd combination of tributes. The Third was a turn off I'm afraid considering the final tribute committed suicide not long after his fateful victory." Neo confessed as he looked to the side.

"Yes quiet the tragedy." The Anchor said to which Neo nodded.

"So when I had caught wind of a tribute who volunteered I had to jump and sink my claws in." Neo said as the Anchor nodded.

"Considering your reputation this will be full of surprises and I'm assuming you two will be working together on this project." He asked and thus the Seneca agreed.

"Yes it would seem so." He said to which Neo nodded.

"Hopefully he can keep up with me." Neo said making a jab at the Seneca next to him earning his ire. "But I have my absolute faith in him and hope it's not for waist." Neo added directing more attention to his new cohort. That way if things go south with Snow he had someone to shift the blame to and cover his own tracks.

(Scene Break Tributes)

The Tributes were all getting the spa treatment as they were getting bathed, waxed, groomed, and haircuts almost like pets at a groomer. While this was going on Alex was still clothed as he was clearly not giving these groomers room to work on him. Katniss saw this as Alex was causing a bit of a scene right now.

"Not happening." Alex said still in his clothing as they hadn't even hosed him down yet. Clearly Security was on the verge of being called as this wasn't the first time they dealt with a difficult Tribute. "It's only a haircut and a shave or we all walk the highway." Alex defended his stance as he clearly did not want to disrobe for ANY reason whatsoever. Either he was a prude or he had something to hide like an emberassing birthmark or something like a scar.

Katniss saw the event play out as the Golden Knight was putting up a fight right now using his arms to keep the groomers at bay. It was too late to replace Alex for a tribute since he's already been seen by the public when he arrived. Even then the reaping had ended the minute he and Katniss left District 12.

"Please we just need to make sure you didn't bring anything unsavory in." One of the groomers said as Alex glared at him with arms crossed while on a chair giving an aura of intimidation.

"Like I said a haircut and a shave nothing more." Alex said refusing to be hosed down like some common pet.

Katniss knew she had to stop him before he causes a bigger incident and thus made a small gesture to the girl doing her. "Can you stop for a moment I think I can talk to him?" Katniss offered as she hated doing this but if Alex didn't cool down they'd all be in trouble. The makeup artist seeing this let it be and allowed Katniss a chance to sit up. "Alex." Katniss called getting Alex attention to her. "Just let them do this if its privacy you're concerned for I'm sure they can get a full curtain for you and if you have personal belongings it will be kept nearby." Katniss said as Alex glared at Katniss but quickly softened to her glare.

"Fine." Alex said as he then stood up wondering how he was agreeing to this. "But if my stuff isn't where I left it we're having problem." Alex said as a threat like that would normally see someone like him shot and from the looks of it he's trying to edge the Capital on.

'Hold strength my friend.' Zaruba said as he knew what Alex was going in for.

'Yeah I'll need it.' Alex responded as he went to a changing area to put the scrubs on for his 'grooming,' for his murder.

(Later after the grooming with Alex)

Alex was in a private room as he was currently dressed in the scrubs they forced upon him. He hated this and most of all he hated the hand and foot treatment he got here like their just making sure he leaves behind a nice looking corpse. Thus as Alex waited for whoever it was who wanted to see him to arrive he soon heard the door open and from it he saw a dark skin male walk in clearly being some sort of designer.

"Great a guest." Alex said as he laid on his provided bench.

"Um my name is Cinna." The man named Cinna introduced as he walked up to Alex.

"Alex." The Golden Knight responded with a small wave. "If you're looking for Katniss she's in the next room." Alex said to which Cinna decided he was going to like this guy.

"I just finished talking with her and came to talk with you about your outfit for tonight." Cinna said as Alex heard this.

"Outfit?" Alex asked as he looked to the box with his stuff inside it.

"Yeah... I'm actually sorry all of this is happening to you and I'm here to help you in any way that I can." Cinna said as he looked to Alex surprising him.

"Huh... most people try to give me the whole, 'congratulations this is a huge honor crap,' when mentioning this." Alex said to which Cinna already was liking this guy.

"Well lucky for you I don't see the point in that." Cinna said as Alex sat up giving Cinna his attention liking this guy for his beliefs on this.

"So what outfit do I need tonight?" Alex asked to which Cinna began to explain things.

"So tonight we have the tribute parade they take you out and show you off to the world." Cinna said to which Alex paid attention. "I already talked to Katniss about this and let me just say I'm not here to make you two look pretty I'm here to help you make an impression." Cinna said to which Alex paid attention. "Usually they dress tributes in the cloths of their district." Cinna explained to which Alex smirked to this.

"Since my district does coal mining I'm guessing you have a few ideas." Alex said to which Cinna nodded to this.

"Exactly I Wanna do something they're gonna remember and Katniss told me you and I have similar mindsets to this." Cinna said showing he wanted to have Alex get an opinion on this. "Just remember it's to help you two get sponsors." Cinna said to which Alex knew what he wanted instantly.

"Yeah but making friends is a challenge for me." Alex said remembering Mr. Face Lift. "Anyway if you're designing I just have two requests for my outfit and Katniss outfit." Alex said as Cinna paid attention.

(Scene Break Outskirts)

The Wolf was following the tracks that were leading to the Capital as it sniffed about looking for Alex scent. As if found it the wolf looked to the pillar and the area around it making notes of pray to hunt and eat in order to keep its strength up. This beast was taking a long journey alone and like any lone wolf it will do so gladly until it brings others to form a pack. It was a lonely journey but the wolf hoped the loneliness will end soon upon its destination.

(Scene break the Capital that evening)

Alex and Katniss found themselves among the other tributes as they were dressed in black outfits akin to coal but with an added motif for both of them. For Katniss her outfit was more akin to a Mockingjay while Alex was that of a great wolf with some gold added in here and there for some ulterior purpose. As Alex waited he was next to Katniss as they both took notice to a little girl among the tributes which that alone made Alex clench his fist and grit his teeth.

"Now this is not real fire." Cinna explained as Alex looked at it. "The suits are built so you won't feel a thing." Cinna said to which Alex nodded.

"But it's just to make it look real right?" Alex asked as he smirked a bit.

"Exactly." Cinna said knowing this was simply to make them look good. "Now don't be afraid." Cinna said as he got them ready.

"I'm not afraid." Katniss confirmed while looking to Cinna.

"Guess it's time to say hello world." Alex said to which Katniss agreed.

"Just try not to get them angry." Katniss said to which Alex smirked a bit.

"No promises." Alex countered causing Katniss to smile a bit while rolling her eyes.

(Later Tribute Parade)

Everyone in the capital were enjoying the party that was going on before the parade starts, with them chatting up of this year hunger games while sipping on a glass of their favorite drinks.

In the upper area with Coriolanus Snow sat in his chair waiting for the tributes to come forth while enjoying the view.

Over at the news area with two news host were sitting with camera pointed on them going live as one of them started to say, "Over 100,000 craning, waiting to get a glimpse of this year tribute and the sponsors gets to see the tributes for the first time. The important of this moment cannot be overstated."

(Game control room)

The Seneca and Neo were going over camera view of the different area of the news casters, Mr. Snow himself, and many other area as well as the Seneca said, "Nice, very nice First chariot on my count in 15...14...13."

AS the Seneca count down Neo looks at the view and watch carefully, mostly the area where the chariots will come forth at and stay silent as he watch.

(The parade)

Everyone soon rises and cheer out as they see the first few chariots coming through the opening as the tributes were wearing strange and colorful outfits that matches the district where they came from, as some seem like royalty, nobles, and few seems like warrior types as they wear golden armor with wings on their helmets as the news crew said, "There they are."

"There's the tributes," the other guy said as he look in the direction his co-worker was looking at as the 2nd news caster guy said, "This is just giving me Goosebumps."

"Don't you just love how the styles they so clearly they reflect of each district?" the first guy said as they keep on watching the tributes coming in one at a time.

Soon enough when it came to Alex and Katniss turn everyone went crazy and awe to what they saw as they see district 12 chariot coming forth and their riders wearing unique outfit that seem to be on fire with Katniss outfit burning red, while Alex's outfit burns green while both of them wearing strange head bands as well that seem to have no point being there, but that wasn't all as the flames seem to have created animal like figure one being a wolf of the green flames and the other was a mockingjay of the red flames that follow beside them.

Alex looked around and could feel everyone eyes on them and knew they have gotten everyone's attention with Katniss looking at a screen that was on the path seeing herself with the fake flames showing, with Alex giving her a small nudge and whisper to her, "Grab my hand and don't get scared of what happens next."

Katniss was a bit against it but she knew if they want to make a great impression and it seem Alex had a plan for it, as she follow suit by grabbing his hand, the wolf and the mockingbird suddenly acted a bit strange, without them noticing, as Alex raise both of their hands in the air, the wolf and the bird rush out as they put on a show.

The mockingbird flew around making loops of flames as the wolf seem to dance around before it leap through the loops with ease before fallen back on the image ground it was on with the crowd cheering and the other tribute looked at them with a bit of envy.

Soon enough with both the mockingbird and Wolf did their dance and fire show, they turned around and rush back to their owner without warring with everyone not knowing what will be happening next.

Katniss was surprise by this as she wanted to duck out of the way, Alex held her steady and said, "Don't move, just watch."

Soon enough as the two animal came at them with everyone surprise to see where this is going as some looked away awhile some keep on watching thinking the two were going to be burn to a crisp by what they think is fire, but instead the animal suddenly change and fuse with their outfits.

Alex outfit change from the black and gold to a green and more golden look with a wolf theme armor made of fire engulf him with a helmet appeared around his head as well looking like the old Garo head piece while Katniss outfit change from black dress to a huntress outfit that crimson red with a hood appearing for it as well, no doubt something dealing with the strange headbands they are both wearing made it so.

Katniss looks at herself and wonder how the complete change of her outfit was even possible, no doubt Alex somehow gotten a few favors from the Makai order as well.

As the crowd throw money and their hat towards the two as it seem they really put on a good show with Haymitch that was in the stands with the other people around was surprise show his two disciples somehow shown during this event thinking they might survive this game yet.

Unknown to anyone else that same person that Alex saw at the train station watch the chariot carefully as she eyed both Alex and Katniss giving a silent clap during this event to blend in with everyone else while trying to find anything out of the ordinary.

(Game control room)

Neo just smile at the display that just happen as he thought, " I have to hand it to them to be so bold… or is it the golden one that the boldest of them all?"

The Seneca was surprise by the show as well as he said, "Well you don't see that every year."

"No you don't," Neo said as he smile knowing this hunger games would turn out something even better than any others.

(Back at the parade)

"No see that, that was a spectacular show. Two young people holding their hands and with that fire showing to the people I'm proud I come from District 12 we will not be overlooked we will hunt we will spread our wings! I love that!" The announcer called out as he saw the scene as he laughed in joy to this.

"People are sure going to be paying attention to them right now." The other one said showing the screen as Alex and Katniss rode in on their chariots.

(Control Room)

As Seneca saw this he got ready for the next bit and called it in. "And we're ready President Snow your live." Seneca said pointing out knowing it was Snow's time to shine.

(Parade)

As Snow got the message he rose to his feet as people saw this while the tributes all gathered before the President of all of Panem. As Snow made his way to the stand he made sure to wave to everyone but Alex noticed that I seemed Snow was struggling to get up there. As the parade ended Alex and Katniss put their arms down allowing the fire to be put out to which Katniss ended up smiling to Alex.

Alex returned the smile before directing a glare torts Snow the man responsible for this shit all because District 13 didn't agree with him. In turn he began his speech to which Alex was half tempted to jump up and throw something at him but knew that would be bad for all of them and thus let it be.

"Welcome." He began as his voice echoed about causing the people to start to quiet down in response to this. "Welcome." He repeated once the crowd's cheers was silenced. "Tributes we welcome you." He said looking down to the tributes unaware one of them could probably kill him 30 different ways before dinner if he was given the chance to do so with no repercussions. "We salute your courage and your sacrifice." Snow said as the people began to cheer once more to which Alex rolled his eyes to this.

'Sure make it sound like we had an option.' Alex thought to which Zaruba heard this and knew he could not disagree with the Golden Knight.

Snow continued to speak despite Alex opinion of the old bastard. "And we wish you happy Hunger Game and may the odds be ever in your favor." Snow said to which Alex was trying to keep himself from going off on the old man.

In turn the Tributes began to leave when the horses were given the signal to carry them back. As this happened Alex gave Snow once last glare ready to off the man if ever given the opportunity to do so.

(Later)

Once the Tributes returned Alex and Katniss got off the chariot as they walked up to Cinna who was walking up to them. "That was amazing." He praised as he walked up to them.

"We're all anybody is going to be talking about." Effie said as she walked up to them as well.

"So brave still wondering how you pulled that off." Haymitch said to which Alex smirked.

"Hey a magician never reveals his tricks." Alex said to which Haymitch heard this. "Translation none of your drunken business." Alex said to which Effie had to laugh at that one.

"You really don't like me do you?" Haymitch asked as he looked to Alex.

"Give me a reason to like you and we can talk shop." Alex countered as Katniss smiled to this.

'Alex.' Zaruba spoke through the link getting Alex's attention. 'I sense a mass of Inga nearby.' Zaruba spoke and thus Alex looked as did the others to see one of the other Tributes nearby giving them a look.

"Let's go upstairs." Haymitch said to which Alex nodded.

"Best thing you've ever said." Alex said as they took their leave of the area.

(Scene Break Later)

The group got out of the Elevator to their new apartment with Effie leading the way. Alex wasn't going to lie Effie was starting to grow on him oddly enough because she wasn't overbearing like most. As the group was given the grand tour Alex noted different escape routes he could use to get out and see the Watchdog. He saw some girls whom he assumed were here to help take care of them which Alex could already sneak around them. They were each given their own room with their own remotes for it and Alex knew getting out with be as simple as breaking curfew and getting away with it.

"Ok so let's hit the showers and go to sleep." Alex said as he made it sound like he was tired. "Gotta get up early tomorrow you know." Alex said to which Effie nodded.

"Smartest thing you said kid." Haymitch said while Alex smirked.

"Kind of hypocritical of you Haymitch considering you haven't said anything smart since recently." Alex said to which Haymitch glared at him.

"Maybe someday before this is over you'll be friends." Effie said walking by as it was clear Haymitch was the butt of the joke between him and Alex. When he was about to grab his flask he saw it was gone and then looked to see Alex smirking while walking away from it.

"I hate that kid." Haymitch said wanting to strangle Alex for all of this.

(Scene Break that evening Alex)

Alex was back in his normal gear as he jumped down a ladder and began to walk about. Sneaking out was easier then he thought. All the Golden Knight had to do was use the remote in the room to play relaxing music and leave a dummy under his sheets to cover for him. No one would suspect he snuck out... at least no one but Katniss would suspect. The girl was sharp Alex knew that and he hoped when this was over she would walk away instead of himself.

As Alex walked down the streets he had to admit the Capital was nothing like he expected it to be... save for the Inga floating around everything seemed peaceful here. So while Alex was walking he made sure to keep his eyes peeled for the Watchdog Sight while staying out of the view of any Peacekeepers or CCT Camera's. Didn't want it getting out that one of the Tributes may be trying to make a break for it before the games started. Though it was not like Alex actually wanted to stay in this place to begin with he simply had a job to do here for the games.

Keeping to the shadows and narrow area as Alex soon came to an empty area that seem no one had touched, and seeing a few reason why it was, there were seal that were carved into the walls, making anyone who is not a part of the Makai Order will automatically change or erase a person memory to forget why they came to the area and turn back around for any reason unless they are company by a member with permission.

He also see other seals to block out and cleanse to Inga, to a minor degree, so no horror could find or enter the area, no doubt because of the city is cover in it, it was thought out well and with no camera in the area and very few cameras around it as well making this places a good hidden place for a watchdog to reside in as he walk forth with the seal glow for a moment as Alex walk by.

Nothing happen but clean Alex of any Inga that was lingering around him as Zaruba said, "That was something I haven't felt before, but it looks like we came across something."

Alex looked around and saw on the ground, markings no doubt of a seal that give a warning to the watchdog of who was coming into the area as well as those other seals aren't fool proof.

Suddenly he felt something wrap around him as he soon saw some thin wire surrounding him, no doubt trapping the uninvited guests as before him the hidden door to the watchdog suddenly open up and Alex was pulled on through without warning giving a small yell as he was drag through before the doors quickly shut behind him silent all sounds.

(Later inside)

Alex was being held in the air, upside down inside of a room with little to no lights were around other than the one that was pointed at a spot where he can assume the watchdog was supposed to be as a voice call out to him, "Are you the one known as the Golden Knight Garo?"

Alex looked around the room to see if he can find who was talking but with his limited movement due to being hang in the air by the wire that still wrap around him as he said, "I am, tell me is this the watchdog capital sanctum?"

Suddenly footstep were heard that came around him as he soon saw a pair of legs before him as he look up, he saw the same member of the order he seen at the train station only without the get up and overly done makeup as she said, "This is. Welcome Golden knight, we have been expecting you."

"Well that's nice and all but could you let me down, I can only take so much blood rushing to my head," Alex said as the person said, "My apology, but we had to make sure of who you are, as here in the capital we cannot take much chances as we like."

The priestess pull out a knife and cut the wire with ease on Alex, he quickly catch himself and get himself up right as he shake his head a bit as the blood return back into his body he said, "Man that a real head rush."

"Follow me please, and keep up," The priestess said with Alex follow her as he soon said, "I'm Alex by the way, and you are?"

"You can call me Ava, I am the resident priestess of the capital, now keep up we have much to talk about once we meet the watchdog," Ava said as Alex said to her, "Alright."

"We had received the message from District 12 watchdog of the situation and we have started to investigate the current hunger games into figuring out what is happening," Ava said as Alex said, "So any result from it?"

"You will have to ask the watchdog on that," She said as she lead him into the Watchdog chamber as he saw a woman in an elegant white dress sitting upon a throne like seat as she said, "Welcome Golden knight."

"A pleasure." Alex greeted with a bow of his head to show his respect with one arm over his chest. Once Alex dropped the bow he looked over to the Watchdog that gave him a calculative look.

"My name is Gala I am the Watchdog who oversees the Capital." Gala said as she looked down upon Alex showing she was tired and who could blame her the Capital was the highest location for Horrors in Panem. It was a Horror breeding ground to some and no one even realizes it because they are so happy living in their life of luxury at the expense of the Districts. "Now as I am sure you are aware somehow someone or something had tampered with our seals to force you entry into the... Hunger Games." The Watchdog as the name of it left her mouth with venom. "In our investigation it seems your district was not the only one it had happened to." Gala said as she looked to Alex who was surprised by this and presented Alex a list of sort.

Alex began to ready over the list and saw every name on the list and from the looks of it no one volunteered save for Katniss since Prim was on the list. "At first we thought nothing of it but if all the seals were tampered then it was for an ulterior motive and thus we did a background check on all of them as well as a psychological check." Gala said as she in turn presented the data as holograms to Alex who looked it over and already he saw the pattern.

"They're all the most sustainable to become Horrors." Alex said as he saw what this was.

"Precisely each of these Tributes in the most likely case shall either become Horrors or become food for the Horrors that are spawned." Gala said as she sat on her throne while holding her hand on an orb.

"And being who they are it makes approaching them impossible if they become Horrors before the games begin." Alex said as he saw this was a fool proof scheme by a greater mastermind.

"Precisely." Gala said she knew this well. "Our duty prevents us from harming humans but we cannot allow them to become victims of a Horror but the entire scenario had made it so that we would have to sacrifice one of those tenants in favor of the other." Gala said showing that they were in a tough spot. "Even if they do become Horrors those few we protect will either fall victim to a Horror or one of the Horrors shall resolve to cannibalism to escape and feed more later." Gala said as whoever had made this so had covered all their bases.

"In other words an uphill battle where I can't win without crossing some line." Alex said s Gala nodded to him.

"I have spoken with the Senate as did the District 12 Watchdog and we have presented some... options that may help you." Gala said as she looked to Alex.

"Whatever it is I don't want it." Alex cut her off as this surprised Gala. "Right now leaving now after the games to another part of the world won't solve anything clearly a higher stakes game is at work here and whoever is the mastermind behind it, this is simply phase 1 of their plans." Alex explained as Gala understood at much.

"Very well I shall discuss this with the Senate before the games begin." Gala said as she knew Alex was shouldering a lot right now. "But in all likely hood the Senate may have to resolve to tell you to let some of those tributes become Horrors or be consumed by them if we wish to draw out this shadowy mastermind." Gala said as she said it with a tone that showed she was going to try to find another way to get Alex out of this without allowing this mastermind to escape.

"I understand but I will do everything I can to minimalize the damage." Alex said as he knew he had to let humans kill humans as it was not his place to be judge, jury, or executioner.

"Now then if it's not of any trouble we do have Horrors to cut down after all." Gala said changing the subject to which Alex nodded to her.

"Understood." Alex said as he was more than ready to hunt down a Horror.

"Good. Now a Horror has appeared within this district at the business section go forth and cut it down." Gala said to which Alex nodded and proceeded to take his leave of the Watchdog sight. Once he was gone Gala sighed and looked to the shadows and saw the shadowed figure of another Makai Knight.

"You sure he won't crack after this?" The figure asked to which Gala turned back and sighed.

"No I am not but Garo would not have chosen him if he was to break under such darkness." Gala said as she had faith he would pull through.

"I hope you are correct madam Watchdog." The young man said before he too took his leave of the Watchdog sight.

(Scene Break Capital Streets)

It was late at night as a woman could be seen walking home from an event of some sort. AS she walked she was calm as it was a quiet night and peaceful to. A lot of people were probably getting ready for the Hunger Games and the Watch Parties involved with it as it was one year away from the third Quarter Quell. Of course she had plans for a watch party as well that she was going over a checklist of anything else that maybe needed for it. But unaware to her a shadow prowled the streets as she remained blissfully unaware of it.

That was until she heard something being knocked over. She yelped in shock and looked behind her and saw nothing there. Once she had calmed her nerves a bit she continued to walk but the feeling she was being followed persisted. As she walked she then nearly jumped from her shoes when she saw a stray shoot out from an alley and run off in turn. Clearly the woman was starting to get riled up at least until she heard the sound of movement nearby.

She began to panic now as she picked up her speed to get home faster. Her heart was racing and her fear was becoming prevalent as the result. As she sped walk she soon passed by an alley which proved to be a mistake due to not going fast enough. From the shadows a hand grabbed her and pulled her into the darkness before pinning her to the wall with a knife to her face.

The woman began to panic but the knife in her face stopped her from moving. "Scream and you lose something precious." The man said as he glared at the woman before him. She was then dragged deeper into the darkness as the woman struggled a bit to get free somehow. Unaware to the two involved Alex saw the whole thing and was ready to cut down the Horror in question.

(In the Deep Alley)

"Now give me all of your valuables and no one get hurt!" The man yelled pointing the knife at the woman who struggled to keep her bag from being taken.

"No! Let me go you brute!" She yelled while trying to get free.

"I said give it here!" The thief yelled trying to take the bag from the woman.

Just before anything else could be done the red scabbard of the Garoken tapped the man on the shoulder getting his attention. He looked shocked and expected a Peacekeeper but instead saw Alex. When he did he had lit the Madou Lighter and thus the two humans looked to it deeply. Now one would expect it to be the mugger who was the Horror but his eyes did not show the marks but instead it was his would be victim in this case.

Alex with his hood up adding a small mask around his mouth saw this and put his lighter down. "Leave us." Alex said as he glared at the man with him.

"What you think you some sort of hero kid!" He called out swinging his knife at Alex who simply caught his arm and tossed him to the side a bit. "Why you!" He yelled only to stop as the woman began to shake violently before her entire body tore open revealing a demining Horror with serpent like hair and flame venting from her shoulders and what looked like a second mouth at her crotch area with fangs for breasts. To top it all off her arms and legs were adorned with serrated edges for shredding her victims no doubt.

"Tried to warn you, buddy." Alex said and thus the man took Alex advice and ran for it.

Once he did the Horror glared at Alex and saw the red scabbard of the Garoken. "Golden Knight?!" The Horror asked clearly seeing Alex for who he was.

"This is the Horror known as Goragos." Zaruba spoke getting Alex's attention. "Do mind her speed and the blades across her body they make a deadly combo with her flames and head tendrils." Zaruba urged as Alex understood well enough to deal with this Horror.

In turn Alex jumped back as the Horror went on the attack. True to Zaruba's word she was fast as she came at Alex using the blades on her body to try and shred through Alex. As Alex dodged the attacks the Horror jumped back and sent her tendrils at Alex. Alex dodge and blocked all the tendrils that came his way before he back flipped away from them. When he did so the Horror then unleashed a torrent of flames upon Alex just as he raised his sword skyward. When Alex cut an energy circle open the flames hit him seemingly burning him to ashes. The Horror was carful as she knew it was never that easy to deal with a Makai Knight especially a Golden Knight.

In turn her words proven true as from the fires of what Alex stood Garo stepped out glaring at the Horror. As Garo walked out he glared at the Horror as his armored shined forth when the azure blue circuit like veins of the armor began to activate. As Garo was out of the flames he took a battle stance by grabbing the Garoken in both hands and holding at the ready.

"Damn you Garo!" The Horror roared in fury and thus charged at Garo intended on ending his life here and now. Garo did the same and in turn the two began to do battle once more. Garo slashed against the Horror and dodged its attacks with ease before jumping to the wall. Once he did so he charged at the Horror while dodging one of its blades but while dodging the blade managed to graze the armor creating sparks but that's it. Garo of course managed to slash through the Horror causing it pain to make it stumble. During this Garo charged in and grabbed the Horror by the face intent on causing it even more damage.

Garo then began to grind the Horror against the wall causing it damage until he got to a tray stack of containers. Once he got there he smashed the Horror into them before tossing it to the nearby dumpster creating a dent in it. Once the Horror got down it was on all fours and in snarled at Garo before charging in once more. Goragos managed to knock Garo to the ground and push him across the ground creating sparks as this happened. Garo glared at his foe and in turn proceeded to kick her until she was loose enough to get off. Once that was done he got her off and grabbed her by her head tendrils and forcibly pulled her in and slammed her around. Once he was done he severed he tendrils from her head causing the Horror to cry out in pain from it.

The Horror in turn began to struggle as she got up and gave a hate filled glare at Garo. Garo paid in no mind and thus the Horror roared and charged at Garo using her speed for one last all or nothing gambit. Garo of course was ready for it as he then charged as well seemingly into the Horrors plan. But just then Garo leaped to the side and landed on the wall catching the Horror by surprised as she had built up to much speed to stop. Garo taking advantage of this charged at the Horror and cut her in two ending her with ease. When Garo landed on the ground his boots grinded and created sparks on it before stopping. Garo swiped his sword to the side just before the Horror blasted apart and was sealed into the Garoken.

As Garo did this he failed to notice a camera Madou Tool watching his every move. As he walked off the camera flew off to keep a close eye on him during this.

(Meanwhile unknown Location)

A cloaked figure sat in the darkness with many TV screens facing him as they showed not only the tributes but also Garo with Garo being the main focus right now. As he sat there he simply smiled and with black gloved hands held a bottle similar to what Neo had at the broadcast control room. "Let the games begin." Was all, he said while he observed the scene before him.

(TBC)

ESKK: Well chapter is over hope you all enjoy it and leave me a review before leaving. So as I always say on this ja-ne.