Hey everyone! Sorry this chapter took so long to churn out. It's definitely the longest chapter that's going to be in this story. I thought about splitting it into two parts, but I felt like that would ruin the flow.
Since the chapter is so long, I know that you might go over the word limit on your review and have to leave a second one. If you do this, I will count both toward your sponsorship points. I feel like that's only fair since you would get two reviews if I had posted the chapter in two parts.
Anyway, enjoy the chapter!
Tiger Emerald (18)- D1M
As I walk back to the front of the line, I fix my suit jacket and tie so that they are tighter on my body. My arms are exposed for the world to see and my blond hair is spiked up in an alluring way. I'm ready to show the Capitol my best my personal life and the third about my plans for the Games. It's a proven formula for success when it comes to the interviews; I've studied previous victors' methods for years and this is the way to get the Capitol on your side.
The tributes are standing around nervously as Caesar introduces the show, the screens on both sides of the hallway showing us the broadcast. This year's color is a bright sunflower yellow that hurts my eyes to look at. His hair, eyebrows, and suit are also the same blinding, disgusting yellow, and I'll have to look at it all night. I try to ignore Hadrian and Rufina's chatting next to me. I don't understand how Hadrian managed to get on her good side. She's the only one that he's managed to capture, it seems.
Tiffany stiffens in front of me when Caesar begins to announce his first guest. Two Avoxes begin helping her up the stairs, her long silver dress constantly tripping her up.
"Our resident beauty, Tiffany Silk from District One!"
Tiffany appears on screen as if she hadn't just been in front of us a second ago. She looks radiant on the screen, the color of her hair, shoes, dress, and jewelry all coming together to make her seem like a huge diamond. She shakes hands amicably with Caesar, a pleasant smile on her face the whole time.
"Welcome to the Capitol, Tiffany!" Caesar says and the crowd cheers again.
Tiffany's grin becomes wider as she crosses her legs in a ladylike way. "Thanks, Caesar. I'm glad to be here."
Caesar really does look like the sun when he smiles, his teeth an unnatural white surrounded by glaring yellow. "Your dress looks lovely!"
"Thank you, it's made of silk, just like my name!"
"Oh, do your parents make silk in District One?"
"No, we make jewelry. My mother made me this necklace." Tiffany shows off her sapphire necklace, the only piece of color in her outfit. The audience oohs and aahs in delight.
"It's beautiful!"
"I love making jewlery, too. I hope to open up my own clothing line and jewelry line after I win." Tiffany seems genuinely excited at the prospect, giggling.
"Wow! And how exactly do you plan to win?"
"By honoring the rules of the Games," Tiffany says, suddenly serious. "I take the Games very seriously. What they symbolize, what it takes to win, and the responsibilities that come with winning."
"And what kind of responsibilities are those?"
"Carrying the spirit of competition," she says solemnly. "Teaching others that in order to get something you want, you have to work for it."
The crowd loves that, going wild again. But Tiffany's time is almost up, so Caesar quickly thanks her for her time and sends her on her way. The camera follows Tiffany as she takes the first seat below the stage, where it will no doubt show her reaction to various things I say in my interview.
I walk towards the stairs, feeling my eardrums pound in my ears. I can still feel the stickiness of where my tears rolled down my face, but I think it gives me a certain glow. No one will know besides Rufina, anyway.
"Everyone knows him as the Reaped Career, but here we call him Tiger Emerald! Come out, Tiger!"
The audience is already screaming by the time I make it onto the stage. I keep my signature smirk plastered to my face, reaching out to shake Caesar's hand as the audience dies down. I'm glad to have a nickname already. It means I'm making an impact.
"So, Tiger," Caesar begins as a woman from the audience shouts, "I love you, Tiger!" and the crowd erupts into cheers again. My smirk grows wider as I wink at the woman. I then turn to Caesar, who is incredibly difficult to look at up close.
"As you can tell, you've made a good impression with the women in Panem," Caesar says with a light chuckle.
"I hope I did," I say. "I was afraid maybe all this time away from home made me lose my charm."
"No, not at all," Caesar assures me. "Attractive, strong, and reaped. Tell me about how that happened."
"Well, Caesar, the odds are unpredictable. At the time I thought it was terrible. The Reaping ball had stolen my moment!" I shake my fists comically and get a laugh from the audience. "But now I see it was a moment to show my strength. Every guy in One knows that I'm going to win, so they didn't dare volunteer for me."
"Well, you certainly convinced some people here as well," Caesar says, bringing more cheers from the audience. "Now, what made you want to volunteer in the first place?"
I keep my expression neutral and confident as I answer, purposely avoiding the topic of Blush. "Well, I was seven when Augustus Braun won his Games." The crowd goes wild at the mention of Panem's Cavalier Career. "He was such an inspiration to me. He's influenced everything that I am and everything that I want to become."
Referencing past, especially beloved victors is a sure-fire way to gain support. I can feel the Capitol's love absorbing into my body now.
"Will you be taking any of Augustus' tactics into the arena with you?"
"Well, I don't want to give away my strategy." I give Caesar a wink. "But let's just say that I've studied the Hunger Games ever since Augustus won, and I know the ins and outs of how they work. I know what the Games are really about. Let's get the blood flowing, already, yeah?!" I shout to the crowd, who erupts into wholehearted agreement. My timer goes off and I am escorted down to the seats, where Tiffany is waiting with a raised eyebrow.
"What the Games are really about?" she asks with a disapproving eye roll.
"What? I'm not wrong."
Hadrian Cato (18)- D2M
Rufina is going onstage before me, which means I'll have to stand backstage alone for a few minutes. Well, not technically alone, but surrounded by my prey. They all tremble at the sight of me, which is satisfying, but also a little tiring after a while. It will feel good to drive my sword through some of their fragile necks.
Rufina's interview is a fantastic one, as expected. Her banter with Caesar isn't common for Careers from Two, who usually go for a more tough image, so the Capitol will find her interesting.
"I'm so glad to be here, Caesar, but do you think you could have worn something a little less disgusting? You remind me of vomit!" is her opening line, and it's a killer.
"Whoo, and I though yellow was all the rage this season. Am I wrong?" Caesar asks the audience for approval, some of them agreeing and others booing playfully.
Rufina lifts her hands up in a questioning kind of way, her eyes widening. "They know I'm right! I don't care what's in fashion, I know what's ugly when I see it."
"Well, I hope you know beauty too, because you look beautiful!"
Rufina laughs goodnaturedly and stands to show off her dress, lifting up the hem in a barely-suggestive way. There are some whoops from the crowd and she throws her head back again in laughter. "I think red looks good on me."
"It does!" Caesar agrees as she sits down again. "Now, how about we talk about your ambitions. Why did you volunteer for the Hunger Games?"
"Well, Caesar I've always felt like I've needed to prove myself to my family," Rufina says. "I was adopted, and even though my family loves me, I've always felt like I needed to prove my worth."
The information is just enough to evoke sympathy as well as intrigue. Everyone will be dying to know more about her adoption. Hell, even I am a little curious. I know the story of Rufina's birth just like most people in Two, but her volunteering seemed a little rushed and not thought-out.
"Well, I think even if your family doesn't understand you, the Capitol understands your heart." The crowd coos in agreement.
"Oh, Caesar, don't be so sappy," Rufina dismisses him with the wave of her hand, getting another eruption of laughter from the audience. She's certainly got them in the palm of her hand. By the time it's my turn, she's warmed the crowd up nicely for me. They must know their next guest is going to be a real contestant based on the training scores. I have the highest score in the Career pack, and therefore the highest chances of winning. They'll be itching to see how I managed to pull that off.
Rufina descends from the stage to thundering applause as Caesar begins to introduce me. The Avoxes help me up the stairs to the backstage, where I shrug them away and adjust my jacket. The navy blue color goes well with the mature but deadly angle that I've been working on.
"And now, ladies and gentlemen, Hadrian Cato!"
I plaster a smirk to my face as I saunter out into the spotlight. I immediately feel the eyes of thousands of bloodthirsty people on my face and suddenly feel more at home than I have since leaving Two. Caesar shakes my hand before we sit in the plush chairs.
"Welcome to the Capitol, Hadrian," Caesar says with a grin.
"It's great to be here." I wave to the crowd, which responds enthusiastically.
"Now, about your name. Cato! The very same as the Cato we all know and love, and also the last name of another victor we've gotten to know in the past few years. What's with that?."
I sigh in a long-suffering sort of way. "What can I say, it's a common name in District
After my moment with Rufina, I have compose myself in my dressing room before returning to the line. I'll be the second guest, right after Tiffany. I'll have the entire Capitol's attention for three whole minutes. I need to make sure I look my best.
My interview is fully planned out. One minute making jokes with Caesar, the second Two."
"You must be tired of hearing about it. Your brother, especially." The implication is not only that the Capitol has made this connection and is very fascinated by it, but that I would have access to the Capitolite gossip, which I don't. But I just chuckle softly and nod my head.
"I am. Cassius have a bet about who can make more kills in the Games. He had five, but I know I can kill more."
"How many are you planning to kill?"
"Twenty-three."
The crowd erupts into laughter at my ridiculousness, and I throw my head back and chuckle as well. A mention of Cassius, a joke that shows I have a sense of humor as well as high goals… the Capitolites will be all over me.
I continue once the audience dies down. "I thought for a while my name was the only reason anyone was interested by me, but I know that's not true anymore." I wink at Caesar, hoping he understands what I'm talking about.
"Of course not, of course not! Not after that announcement last night!" The crowd roars in agreement. "How does it feel to be one of only three tens in the Games?"
"Quite frankly, Caesar I was a little disappointed. I was hoping for a twelve."
Even more laughter this time. Caesar doubles over, holding his stomach.
"Shooting for the stars is always admirable, even if you fall short." he says eventually, wiping his eyes. "Still very impressive. I take it you are very determined to win."
"Yes, winning the Hunger Games is all I've ever wanted. The glory, the fame, the way my name will live on forever… it's truly the best goal anyone could work towards. What's a better way to spend your life than gaining glory?"
My timer goes off then, and I'm led off the stage to glorious applause. I have them in the palm of my hand, I just know it.
Pixel Mackaby (15)- D3M
I can feel my whole body shaking, like something is trying to jump out of it. After Tesla is finished with her interview, I'll be next in line.
Tesla's yellow dress fits perfectly with this year's color, but her attitude is anything but sunny. She doesn't smile once as Caesar shakes her hand and motions for her to sit. The audience claps for her as they do for each tribute, but I can sense their intrigue through the screen.
"So, Tesla, how have you been holding up in the Capitol?"
"Fine." Tesla looks him straight in the eye as she says it, showing no emotion or providing any more information.
"Do you miss your family?"
"Kind of."
Caesar seems to catch on to her game, leaning back in his chair and matching her expression. The audience laughs faintly.
"Do you have any siblings?"
"Yes."
"Brothers?"
"No."
"Sisters?"
"One."
"Younger or older?"
"Neither."
Caesar's eyes light up. "A twin! Ladies and gentlemen, we have determined that Tesla Sherman has a twin sister. How about that? What an accomplishment!"
The crowd finds Tesla's game hilarious, and Caesar attempts to extract information from her for the rest of the interview. Unfortunately there doesn't seem to be much to extract. Tesla is silent on any subject about her plans for the Games, and according to the interrogation she doesn't have many friends or reasons to return home. The one thing she does say is that she loves her father.
Tesla's three minutes are up far quicker than I imagined. After her mysterious interrogation, the Captiol will be expecting someone equally intriguing. I posture up as the Avoxes lead me backstage, straightening me dark mustard suit. Apparently the stylists wanted Tesla and I to match.
"From District Three, Pixel Mackaby!"
My feet don't move until the Avox behind me gives me a little push, at which point my legs take over. I'm moving without thinking about it, my attention fixed on the roaring crowd that is applauding for me. The lights are blinding and I can't even tell where they're coming from. I'm by Caesar before I know it, shaking his hand and sitting down.
"Welcome, Pixel," Caesar says with a garish smile. "How have you been liking the Capitol so far?"
"I-I like it." Is the only thing I think to say.
"Well, that's good," Caesar says, nodding his head seriously. "What do you think your favorite part is?"
I wrack my brain for something intelligent to say. The only thing I can think of is, "Um, the fashion."
"Oh, really?" Caesar and the other Capitolites seem intrigued. I try not to focus on how I had just said the first thing that came to my mind, and that I don't care about fashion at all, and instead relish the fact that I have their attention.
"Tell us a little bit about yourself, Pixel," Caesar says after a moment, when it's clear I'm not going to elaborate.
"I l-love my family. And I work on machines at the factories in my spare time." Really, it's my job, but my mentor said that younger kids talking about their jobs doesn't go over well in the Capitol. Apparently they think children shouldn't work until they're of age, and even have laws against it in their city.
"Oh, what kinds of machines?"
"Any kind," I say, surprised at how quickly the words are coming to me. I feel thousands of ears listening closely to my words. "I've always done well in science at school, so the factory supervisors wanted me to help them with the broken machines. I can fix almost any problem."
"Well, that's very impressive," Caesar says, possibly exaggerating his facial expression to get the point across to the cameras, and it reminds me that fixing machines isn't going to help me win in the Games. What if the audience is just pretending to be interested? What if they hate me?
"I know all about electronics," I continue desperately. "I'm the top of my class and I love anything to do with engineering."
"A true District Three boy, I see!" Caesar says with a chuckle. "I'm sure your talents are much appreciated there."
My timer goes off and the crowd cheers for me, actually cheers, like they enjoyed the interview. Maybe they did. Maybe I'm just getting into my head again… I should be proud.
Tesla is expressionless as usual when I sit down next to her, not looking at anything and spacing out. She seems completely in control of her body as well, and I look down and see I'm still shaking with a fury. I hope it wasn't obvious when I was onstage, but it probably was.
Andrew "Drew" de Luce (18)- D4M
I still can't believe that my Flickerman interview, one of the moments I've most looked forward to in my life, where I'll get to tell the entire nation about myself, is ruined by my blindness. Tomas was trying to comfort me before the interviews started, but then he was forced back to his place at the end of the line. But what he doesn't understand is that I'm not sad or upset, I'm angry. I'm angry that my sight is gone after nearly five years of my operation, right before the biggest weeks of my life. I'm angry that the Capitol won't help me. I'm angry that my stylist gave me a stupid pair of dark glasses to wear with my black suit. I'm literally a gimmick, the blind kid that everyone expects to die in the bloodbath. I'm so angry I could scream.
Nikki has been holding onto my arm to keep me in line for the past fifteen minutes, but she hasn't spoken except to tell me where to walk. Once she goes into her interview, I'll be alone.
I wish I could see the interviews on the big screen, but instead I can only listen to them. The remaining Careers all did very well, which is clear without even seeing their outfits. The Threes are miserable as usual, apparently going for strange and told me Caesar is wearing a horrid yellow suit and hair today, as if I don't remember it from the Head Gamemaker's interview the night before the Reaping.
"I'm a Career, I actually pay attention to these things!" I had snapped at him, only realizing afterward that we weren't alone and everyone was probably staring at us. I had hoped to apologize to him, but it was too late. The Avoxes had taken him away and I talked to air for a few seconds before Nikki grabbed onto me.
Tomas is a lot to handle at times but I hope he knows I couldn't function without him. Everyone has been avoiding me, it seems, or stuck between wanting to help or ignoring me. Tomas is the only one whose treated me normally while still helping me things I can no longer do.
Suddenly, Nikki's arms leave me and I can only assume she's going up the stairs that are ahead of us. I don't know all of what she's wearing, but it's long and feels scratchy when it touches me.
"Our next guest, is from the fishing district, is the lovely Nicolette Anderson!"
The Hunger Games music plays as the interview begins. The crowd's screams are both playing over the TV and deafening loud just a wall away, so the sound is overwhelming.
"Nicolette, you look absolutely gorgeous, my dear."
"Thank you, Caesar! And call me Nikki."
The audience cheers loudly, either at her words or possibly a wink to Caesar.
"Now… let's get right into it shall we? Your parents…"
"Yes, my parents are Joseph and Josephine Anderson," Nikki says, managing to sound both annoyed and proud.
The audience fawns over her again, and I can't blame them. Nikki's parents are icons in the history of District Four. Her father won the 46th Games with nothing but pure strength, no matter what weapon was in his hand. Her mother won the 53rd Games by seducing the boy from One before killing him mercilessly with a throwing knife in his heart. After her Games, she and Joseph, who was one of her mentors, fell in love and got married. It wasn't the first marriage between victors, but their similar names and the fact that he had mentored her made it a particularly beloved story.
"How are they doing? Everything okay in paradise?"
"Well, I imagine they're eager to see how I'll do!" Nikki says, sounding chipper. "They've been looking forward to this for a long time."
"What about your brother Marcus?."
The crowd hushes down immediately, and I think I can hear Nikki sighing into her mic.
"Marcus did well in his Games, but I'm going to do even better. I've learned from his mistakes, and our family has recovered from his death stronger than ever."
"Well, I certainly hope so! If you win, you'll be the first victor who is the child of two other victors!"
The crowd goes wild, but I huff in amusement. I remember Caesar saying the same thing about Marcus four years ago. Sure, he did well, but Four hasn't had a victor in a long time and he was the best shot we've had in the last decade. A runner-up doesn't give the district any glory or riches.
"I hope so. I grew up in Victor's Village, but I'm ready to get my own house and move out!"
The audience laughs, making me roll my eyes.
"That's right, you're only seventeen!" Caesar says, sounding shocked. "Do you think your age will set you back?"
"Not at all," Nikki says confidently. "I have the highest score in the Games, tied with only two others, and I've been training for this all my life by two victors. I'm ready!"
The crowd gives an uproarious applause, and I can imagine them getting to their feet. The timer goes off and my heart rate spikes. It's my turn to show the Capitol that I'm not a weakling.
I feel a hand on each of my arms and I jerk away instinctively, but they hold on tight and bring me up a flight of stairs. I must trip twenty times, but I eventually make it to the top. The hands leave me and suddenly my heart rate spikes again. What am I supposed to do? Just walk forward?
"Our next guest has had a lot of mystery and speculation surrounding him since his arrival here in the Capitol. Hopefully all theories will be put to rest as we welcome Andrew de Luce!"
The audience starts cheering, and suddenly I hear something moving around in front of me and feel the heat of a bright light on my face. I still have some light and dark perception, so I can tell I should be moving forward. I keep my hand firmly at my sides as I try to navigate my way around the stage, which I can only assume I'm not on. The cheering continues, but lowers in volume after a while, and I'm still slowly walking forward. I should be moving to the right at some point, shouldn't I?
Suddenly another pair of hands are on my shoulders and I freeze, only to hear Caesar's familiar voice in my ear. "Don't worry, we can find your seat together!"
He leads me to the chairs, where I hesitantly sit down and feel the plush material. It's bigger than it looked TV, when I sat at home with my family and watched the show.
"Welcome to the Capitol, Andrew!"
"It's Drew," I say without thinking, forgetting to sound charming.
"Sorry about that. Now, it looks like the rumors are true. Are you having sight problems?'
"Well, I've had sight problems for many years," I say truthfully. "It started when I was around twelve. My left eye had cataracts and the surgeons had to operate on it to save my other eye. I lost sight completely in my left eye then, but now…" I trail off, unsure of how to breach the topic. Will The Capitol think I'm lying? "The day after the reaping I woke up with no sight."
The crowd gasps dramatically, and I can hear them whispering amongst themselves.
Once they quiet down, Caesar asks, "But you haven't give up, have you? What's your plan?"
"My plan was to fight alongside the Careers, but they rejected me." I feel my face turning red from anger again. "But I will still win. I know how to fight, and I've trained for this my whole life."
"A four is an impressive score for... someone with your condition. The Gamemakers must have saw something in you."
The crowd snickers and I feel my body temperature shoot way up. I feel my breath coming quickly, not from nerves but from rage.
"You should know that the Gamemakers rejected my request to have my eyesight restored," I say quietly, making the audience listen closely to hear me. "If they did, this wouldn't be a problem."
"Well, that's…" Caesar sounds like he doesn't know how to respond. "Prior medical conditions a tricky subject, but the precedent has been set that they shouldn't be messed with. Capitol work gives tributes an unfair advantage."
"They want ratings!" I say loudly, suddenly standing up. I know I shouldn't yell at Caesar, but my rage is clouding my judgement. "They don't care about odds! They want a show! I hope all of you have a great time watching me stumble around in the arena!" I shout at the audience. I storm off in the opposite direction from which I came, almost falling down the stairs but managing to walk down them and over to my seat, miraculously remembering where they are from my time watching the show.
The audience is whispering softly, and a scandal is surely brewing. I feel my anger slowly dissipate as I realize what I've done. I may have just sealed my fate in the arena. Surely the Capitol won't let this slide.
"Way to go," Nikki whispers in my ear, making me jump.
"Leave me alone," I hiss back as my timer goes off.
Amelia Waltraud (16)- D5F
If one thing is good about today, it's my outfit. My pale purple dress isn't something I would be able to afford in Five, but it's the kind of thing that I would wear if I could. My hair hasn't been messed with much, either, which I'm grateful for. My styling team said it was so long and pretty it would be a shame to do anything drastic with it. Instead, I have simple beach waves that cascade down my back to my waist, with minimal makeup to make me recognizable, and my half-heart necklace. I grab it for support as Caesar announces my name. I wonder if Elanor is doing the same thing back home.
I know what I have to do today, and it won't be easy. I've been living with secrets for far too long.
"Everyone, please welcome Amelia Waltraud from District Five!"
The crowd clamors for me more than I expected. Maybe they're relieved that the awkward encounter with Drew is finished. Or maybe they are just excited to see me die.
The lights and noise are overwhelming as I walk to my chair and I suddenly get the urge to curl into myself and disappear, but I push through it. I need to do this.
"Welcome, Amelia," Caesar says with a warm smile. "You look very pretty tonight."
"Thank you," I say, my voice coming out oddly croaky. "I think so too."
The crowd laughs a little at that and I realize that might have come off as conceited. Or maybe just confident… who knows.
"Are you enjoying the Capitol?"
"I.. yes." I settle on, wincing at my own hesitation. If I came across as confident before, then certainly that will change by the time the interview's over.
"What do you think is your favorite part?"
"Outfits like these," I say, looking down at my dress. "It's beautiful."
"Indeed. What kind of necklace is that? Is that your token for the arena?"
"Yes, it is." I reach up to touch it, breath coming in quicker as I find my words. It's difficult to gather any thoughts when there are ten cameras pointed at me and thousands of eyes.
"Does someone else have the other half?" Caesar helps me along, nudging the truth out of me.
"There is. Her name is Elanor," I say, deciding to look straight at the camera for what I'm about to say. "And I love her."
The crowd croons and awws and drinks in every second of it. I feel heat rise to my cheeks, but I try not to look down in fear.
"I never got the chance to say it before I left District Five," I say, still staring at a camera. "But I do love Elanor, and I hope we can have a life together after the Games are over."
"That's so beautiful," Caesar says, sounding choked up. I imagine it's fake, all for the show, but I can feel the audience's sympathy towards me, and it's real. I didn't expect that. I know the Capitol loves romance, but they also love heartbreak.
"There's something else I have to say," I say suddenly, feeling braver than I've ever felt. I'm tired of living under my father's thumb and hiding my identity. He might take his anger out on my mother, but I don't care anymore. If I don't survive, then he won't have a reason to visit her. And if I do… then she'll never need another penny from him again.
"Caleb Odalric, the boy from my district, is my half-brother."
The crowd turns to confused muttering this time. Clearly they were expecting something more about Elanor, or something entirely different.
"What do you mean, Amelia?" Caesar asks, leaning in closer to me. I wish he wouldn't, the powder on his skin more apparent up close.
"Our father had an affair with my mother while he was married," I say, suddenly feeling like I might cry. "And she gave birth to me. He wants to keep my existence a secret, but now everyone knows. I just wanted to let it out before the Games started."
"If you were a secret, then does Caleb not know about this?"
I shake my head. "No, he doesn't."
My timer goes off then, signaling uproarious applause from the audience. As I walk to my seat, I can feel my body shaking slightly from the adrenaline. I can't believe I've done it. I've told the world about my parentage and about my love for Elanor. If I return to Five as a victor, then I will have no secrets to bring with me. And if I die, I won't take any of them to the grave.
"Ladies and gentlemen, from District Five, Caleb Odalric!"
Caleb meanders onto the stage, looking shellshocked. Caesar shakes his hand and helps him sit as the crowd dies down, obviously eager to see my response. I keep my face neutral but hopeful since I know a few cameras are likely pointed at my face, looking for any reaction.
"Well, Caleb, how has your day been so far?" Caesar asks, teasing a laugh out of the crowd.
"It was okay until a few minutes ago," Caleb says, his face still completely blank and shocked.
"I take it you had no idea about Amelia."
I purposely don't react, staring at Caleb on the stage.
"I didn't. I… don't think it's real."
The crowd starts to murmur amongst themselves.
"Do you think Amelia is lying about being your half-sister?" Caesar suggests. I can feel the audience lean forward, hoping for a good taste of drama.
"She might be," Caleb says timidly.
The crowd's murmurs start getting louder.
"She isn't the kind of person to lie, though," Caleb says thoughtfully. "I've had a lot sprung on me at once."
"Well, let's talk about something else," Caesar sasy, waving away the issue with his hand. "I see you're wearing your token as well. Don't tell me you have a confession planned."
Caleb glances at his friendship bracelet and takes some time to compose himself. "No. My sister gave it to me."
"Amelia?"
"No," Caleb says firmly. "My sister Nina. She was killed in the 73rd Hunger Games."
The audience either hates or loves that. It's hard to tell with these people, but I think it's probably a mixture of both. Caesar leans back in his chair and lets out a deep breath, nodding.
"That's tough. How would you feel if you lost another sister?"
Caleb glances over to me in the seating area, and my breath catches when our eyes meet. "I think… it would be awful, but I don't quite understand yet. My father wouldn't lie about fathering another child."
I can feel the air in the room tighten up and it feels like I can't breathe. What have I done? Have a ruined any chance of survival that I previously had?
"I will need to talk to Amelia," Caleb explains. I hope his denial is brief and he will see the truth soon. I can't have the Capitol thinking I'm a liar.
Caleb's timer goes off and he walks down to the seats where the rest of us are waiting. I know the cameras will be dying to get our first interaction, so I don't look at him at all, hoping he won't try anything. Luckily, he simply sits down next to me, unnaturally still, and doesn't try to get my attention. I wonder if I will be on my own in the arena after all.
Jason Sparks (18)- D6M
Amelia's confession about Caleb is shocking, to say the least, but I can't get hung up on it right now. I have bigger fish to fry.
Nikki played the part of eager, drop dead gorgeous Career very well. Now it's time for me to bring in the sponsors who like the other kinds of tributes; the charming, likable kind with a compassionate side. Combined, we'll be unstoppable.
Attie is going before me, dressed in her classic baby blue dress that will certainly enchant the Capitol. However, I'm sure her personality will not. Attie has been nothing but rude to me since our Reaping, and any conversation about her family or life in Six will ultimately revolve around drugs. It will be a classic disaster, unless she manages to go in Tesla's direction of uninterested secrecy.
"From District Six, Antonia Montgomery!"
Attie struts to her chair in a way I've never seen her walk before. Her strides are calculated and her posture perfect, but a warm smile is fixed on her face. Caesar helps her sit down and Attie's grin grows.
"Welcome, Attie!"
"Thank you, Caesar." Her voice is soft but strong.
"Are you enjoying the Capitol so far?"
"I'm liking it fine," Attie tilts to her head to the side slightly. She seems self-assured and aloof through her voice alone.
"That's good to hear! What do you think your favorite part is?"
"I liked seeing all the historical place I thought I would never get to see," Attie says sweetly. "The President's mansion is so much bigger than I thought it would be. And I've seen this stage so often on television, it's strange to be here!"
I'm shocked at the sudden change in her demeanor. Just five minutes before going onstage, she had been brooding with her fists clenched, looking rather angry at the thought of having to do this. She always spoke sweetly with our escort, though. And the mentors love her since she used to sell them drugs, and hardly pay any attention to me. For a moment I realize how dangerous Attie will be if this interview goes well.
Caesar and the audience gobbles up her answer. "I never thought about that before! I guess we're spoiled in the Capitol, getting to see our beautiful city everyday."
"I have to be honest, I wouldn't mind visiting every year, if you know what I mean," Attie says with a wink, provoking a laugh.
The rest of the interview goes much smoother than I had imagined, brushing on her family without giving too much away, and carefully evading any questions about her homelife. They mostly talk about her relationship with her little brother, and she even gets choked up talking about him. I wonder if she's lying about wanting him to have a better life.
By the time the interview is over, I'm bouncing on the balls of my feet in anticipation. I just want to have this over with so that I can get a good night's sleep in preparation for tomorrow.
"From District Six, Jason Sparks!"
The crowd goes wild as I step out into the spotlight. I try to stay focused on where I'm walking and not on the thousands of people screaming my name. I keep my gait quick but unhurried, like I was taught in the Peacekeeper Academy. My mentors don't have much to do with me, but I thought on my own that associating myself subconsciously with Peacekeepers will cause the Capitol to root for me.
"Welcome, Jason!" Caesar says with a blinding yellow and white grin, motioning for me to sit. I do slowly, adjusting my simple black suit jacket so that the watch my father gave me before I left is visible. The picture inside of me and my parents likely is too far away for the audience to see, but the cameras must be picking it up right now.
"Thank you, Caesar," I say confidently.
"Now, there have been some rumors flying around about you as well. Is it true you were training to be a Peacekeeper?"
"It is true," I say, looking to the audience. "My father is a Peacekeeper, and I trained for three years to be one as well. And as you can tell from my training score, it paid off tremendously."
"Yes, that's right!" Caesar says with excitement. "A score of a nine is very impressive! You should be proud."
"I am proud," I say with a nod, folding my hands in my lap. "I'm just a little disappointed that I won't be able to use those skills in the actual line of duty."
Another good thing that comes out of my Peacekeeper training is showing the Capitol that I'm patriotic and loyal to the state. I'm a safe choice for a victor.
"Yes, that is a shame," Caesar says gravely. "But we thank you for your service nonetheless."
"Thank you. It feels good to hear that."
"Well, Jason, what do you do back home other than Peacekeeping training?"
"Not much in the past few years," I admit. "I finished school early to focus on my training."
"Not even so much as a girlfriend?"
I swallow as my eyes flicker down to where the other tributes are sitting. "Nope. I have a good friend named Olivia, but she is just a friend."
"Well, I'm sure she would kill to be your girlfriend. And if you win, you'll have the choice of any girl in Panem!"
Several female voices shout out to me, as if already willing. I smile at the crowd in what I hope is a charismatic way. The question about girls caught me off guard.
"You said your father was a Peacekeeper," Caesar continues. "Do you miss your family?"
"My father is the only family I have left," I say sadly. "And I do miss him." I look at the camera, hoping he's watching. He must know that I don't really blame him for my mother's death. I try to convey it in a look, but I know it's not enough. I will have to go back to Six to tell him.
"My mom always said," I say slowly, "be kind to everyone no matter what, and always be thankful for what you have. Because no matter how bad you have it, someone out there has it worse. I've been thinking a lot about that lately."
"That's a beautiful saying," Caesar says, just as my timer goes off. I stand and make my way down to the seating area, replaying the interview over in my head. I can only hope it's enough.
Willow Whitebeam (17)- D7F
I hate that the stylists are still making me associate with Seb. He's fun to joke around with, sure, but lately all he wants to talk about is alliances. It's like he's simultaneously disgusted with me and afraid for me.
Even though we aren't any longer, we look like a team in our matching green outfits. My green dress is brighter and more noticeable, while Seb's suit is a darker shade, but they're still obviously a set. The dress is pretty otherwise, long and flowy like wind blowing through the leave of a tree. I could do without the bulky jewelry, but that's just my taste. As for Seb, the cufflinks and tie match my necklace, making us clearly a matching couple. It's gross.
I try not to focus on him and instead practice my lines for the interview in my head. I'm not usually a planner, but I know I need to hit specific points to get sponsors. I need to be myself, but also mention my life in the Care Home to evoke sympathy, the fact that I built myself up from having nothing (though excluding how), and that I've been accepted into the Careers.
As Jason's interview wraps up, the Avoxes take me up the stairs to where I'm supposed to wait. I reach up to touch my hair, making sure the braids around my head are still tightly in place.
"Our next guest from the lumber district, Willow Whitebeam!"
The doors open and light immediately is shined onto my face. I walk forward with confidence, smiling as I take Caesar's hand and sit on my chair. I notice the crowd is definitely screaming for me specifically, not just clapping politely. It's good to see I've made my mark already.
"Welcome to the Capitol, Willow! How are you liking it so far?"
"I'm loving it, Caesar! It's so exciting. I never thought I would be able to do all these things and wear such pretty clothes."
"You do look beautiful," Caesar says, the crowd agreeing loudly.
"Thank you. I've never had the chance to wear stuff like this."
"Really? Why is that?"
"Well, there's not really a lot going on in District Seven except for cutting down trees," I say jokingly. "But I also grew up very poor in the Care Home."
The audience groans sympathetically.
"That's terrible!" Caesar says, his eyebrows furrowing in what must be fake concern, leaning in slightly. "How did you end up there?"
"I don't know. I lived there all my life. I guess my parents dropped me off there. I've never met them."
The audience seems to hate and love that. I shrug away their crooning moans with, "It doesn't matter to me. I've gotten to choose my own family and work myself up from what I was. Now I live with my best friend Juniper and we are independant and work hard for everything that we have."
Caesar nods encouragingly. "That's right. Working for something is always more rewarding, isn't it?"
"Yep! And now I'm ready to compete for my life! I'm fully ready, Caesar."
"That's wonderful! How do you plan to do it?"
"Well, I am in the Career alliance now," I say, hearing the gasps and whispers from the audience. "And we're going to work together to eliminate all the other competition."
"That's a strong plan," Caesar says seriously, sounding impressed. "An eight is a respectable score, and you have me convinced that you shouldn't be underestimated."
I laugh, hoping I come across as my usual laidback self. "Thank you, Caesar, that means a lot."
My timer goes off and I wave to the audience, even blowing kisses as I walk to my seat. I can hear chants of my name as the cameras pan away from me, like they usually do for the Careers. I try to keep a smirk off my face and seem unaffected so Jason next to me doesn't see.
"And now from District Seven, Sebastian Cassara!"
Seb walks out with his usual careless gait, lightly shaking Caesar's hand and not looking at the crowd once as he takes his seat. His white-blonde hair is pulled into a small ponytail that makes him look like a douche, but maybe the Capitol like that kind of thing. They liked Hadiran, Tiger, and Rufina after all. He crosses his legs as well and leans back, probably making him look confident and laidback to everyone else, but I know it's the opposite. He's trying too hard, which means he's uncomfortable and nervous. The thought makes another smirk appear on my lips.
"Welcome to the Capitol, Sebastian!"
"It's Seb. And thanks." Seb says. Several women in the audience croon, surprising me. They really do go for an arrogant man with silly hair.
"Oh, excuse me. Seb, then, I think we have to talk about your training score first. The only ten outside of the Careers! How did you manage it?"
Seb chuckles. "I thought I was supposed to keep it a secret."
The audience chuckles along with him, and I roll my eyes. How can they be so stupid?
"That's very true," Caesar says with a laugh. "So let's talk about something else. What about your family?"
Seb leans back even farther, almost imperceptibly, but I notice. Caesar must be reaching a sensitive spot. "I miss my girlfriend," he says tersely.
The audience cooes again, ever the sucker for romance. I wonder if they even care that this means they have a less of a chance with him.
"What about the boy you volunteered for? Who was he?"
"Her brother," Seb says, swallowing. "I live with her family."
"Oh, why is that?"
Seb's exhale is audible enough to be picked up by his mic. "Because… my parents are dead."
Noises of sympathy from the audience. Goddamnit! Not having a family was supposed to be my thing!
"That's too bad. When did they die? Did you know them?"
"I did," Seb's eyes flutter closed and he leans forward, finally sitting like a normal human. "They died about a year and a half ago. My father beat my mother to death and then…" he chokes off, and the audience is alive with noise and curiosity.
"And then what, Seb?" Caesar prompts him, keeping up a facade of concern.
"I killed him," Seb says finally, and his timer goes off.
The crowd is still reeling from his confession, though they do eventually applaud him as he sits down next to me.
"Way to go," I say through clenched teeth. "Stealing my thunder."
"What, we can't both have tragic backstories?" Seb snarks back.
I huff and cross my arms, awaiting the next tribute.
Sock Northsilk (12)- D8F
My dress is wildly uncomfortable, sticking to every part of my body and pulling on it, but that's not the worst part. The worst is how I know the stylists are trying to play me up as some kind of cute, helpless little girl. They don't think I have what it takes to gain sponsors on merit alone, but they're wrong. I earned a seven in training, and I deserve to show the Capitol who I really am. Not a princess, but a warrior.
I repeat this mantra to myself as I wait backstage for Caesar to introduce me. The sparkling cyan gown is pretty, but I have to show the Capitol why I'm going to win. I put on my warrior face as I hear Caesar's voice.
"From District Eight, Sock Northsilk!"
The audience applauds me as much as for anyone else, but I wonder if it's because they think I'm cute. I keep my warrior face on as I shake Caesar's hand, trying not to let the noise and attention get to me. I will stay strong. I have to.
"Hello hello, Sock!" Caesar says, smiling gently at me. "How are you today?"
"I'm feeling fine, Caesar," I say, not matching his tone at all.
"You seem a little tense; are you sure?"
"I'm very sure," I growl a little. I hear the audience chuckling a little at me, and I feel myself bristle.
"Well, that's great! Are you enjoying the Capitol?"
"It's okay.I haven't seen much of it."
"That's very true; they work you down to the bone here! That must be why you got a seven in training. It's impressive for a girl your size! How did that happen?"
"I trained hard," I say seriously. "I learned everything I could and didn't waste any time."
"Oh, that's a good strategy."
I can tell he's making fun of me. He thinks I'm cute, a little girl who's here for their entertainment before dying a bloody death at the hands of an older tribute.
"I learned as much as I can about weapons," I continue, my voice deep and angry. "I'm going to kill the Careers and topple the alliance. Then I'll kill everyone else until I'm the vicor."
The audience for once seems to take me seriously, murmuring amongst themselves as my timer goes off. As I walk in my little heels down to my seat, I try to tell myself this wasn't a waste of time. Now they know I'm not to be messed with.
Seb is looking at me fondly when I take my seat, but I ignore him.
"Good job," he whispers.
"Leave me alone!" I hiss. We wait a few moments as Spool is being introduced in his fake name. "You know, Tag and I accept your alliance."
I feel him turn to look at me, but I look straight ahead. "Really?"
"Yes. You are going to get tons of sponsors and you have experience killing. Of course we want you."
"And now our other tribute from the textile district, Tag Nylon!"
Spool appears onstage with his shimmery purple suit, smiling charismatically as he shakes Caesar's hand and waves once to the crowd. He seems much older than he is, despite the dyed fringe that matches his suit and the short height. He lounges comfortably in the chair, his legs crossed.
"Hello, Tag! Welcome to the Capitol," Caesar says, playfully hitting Spool's shoulder. "You're hair is matching your suit! I like it."
"Thanks, Caesar," Spool laughs. "I think the stylists did it on purpose."
"Your hair was like this at the Reaping as well. Do you keep up with Capitol fashion or what?"
"No, I did this just because I think it looks cool." Spool grins. "I do it for all kinds of people in Eight. It's one of business ventures."
Caesar laughs. "Ah, a business! You're a rather young entrepreneur."
"I've always kind of been that way. The Sock Knights have all kinds of businesses, dying hair, selling food and drinks, putting on puppet shows, etcetera."
"And who exactly are the Sock Knights?"
"Me, my brother Spool- who is awesome by the way- and some of our friends. We're named after the Knights of the Round Table. You know, the medieval stories."
The crowd coos at that, but Spool doesn't seem offended. If anything, he looks pleased.
"Maybe that ingenuity is how you managed an eight in your training," Caesar says. "That's quite impressive for a boy your age."
"I've always been rather mature," Spool says, his eyes glinting in a way that signals to me that he's joking, but the audience probably can't catch on. "I can't wait to show everyone what I'm made of in the arena."
"We can't wait either, Tag."
The timer goes off and the audience erupts into applause. It's easy to tell that they love him from the way they scream his name, but I don't understand how he isn't upset that they're not taking him seriously. They only think he's cute and funny, not an actual threat!
"Don't look like that," Spool whispers to me as he sits down. "They love all three of us."
"We're going to need to find a big cave or something to put all our sponsorship gifts in," Seb says quietly.
I sigh in frustration.
Grizelda "Zel" Weaver (18)- D9F
Hopefully, following the two twelve year olds will help gain my more sympathy. Seeing two little children and then a woman who is pregnant with one will surely make my case seem more urgent. They can't send my baby to die, no matter how much they want to see my throat slit.
My dress is probably the most beautiful thing I've ever worn, and I'm a seamstress. It's a light green color and made of a flowy, breathable material that's easy to move around in. It doesn't squeeze my belly tight, either, giving Reina plenty of room. My shoes are green moccasins, comfortable with my swollen feet that I've had since about three months into the pregnancy. My hair hasn't been messed with too much, either, left to hand in natural waves.
I bounce on the heels of my feet as I wait backstage for my name to be announced. I imagine Ezra and my family watching me back home and smile. I hope he thinks I'm beautiful.
"From District Nine, the glowing Grizelda Weaver!"
The doors open and I'm released onto the stage. I walk steadily to where Caesar is waiting, keeping my left hand on my stomach as I shake his with my right. I try not to focus on the screaming crowd. Though they clearly don't have a problem with sending me to my death, I do have my fans.
"Welcome, Grizelda! You're looking lovely."
"Thank you, Caesar," I giggle, taking my seat. "I think so too."
"Now, of course we have to talk about the elephant in the room! Oh, and I don't mean you. Sorry about that!"
The audience erupts into laughter. I try to smile as well, though the conversation is already making me uneasy.
"When is your baby due?"
"In about four months."
"Wow! Well, you look great. It's true what they say about pregnant women being more beautiful than ever."
"Thank you," I grin. I couldn't care less about how the pregnancy makes me look, but I know it's important to these people. "Her name is Reina."
The crowd awws at that, simply fawning over us. I place both my hands on my belly to accentuate it.
"I assume you and Reina have a special man back home that you can call your own," Caesar says, sounding like a father who is legitimately concerned to his daughter.
"My husband, Ezra. He's everything to me."
That gets more noises of sympathy from the crowd. I think I'm doing well. The thought makes me smile as I smooth a hand over my belly.
"I suppose you miss your husband. Is Weaver the name you took when you married him?"
"It is. My maiden name is Sasha. It's beautiful, but I wanted to become apart of Ezra's family after our marriage."
Caesar nods, his bright yellow eyebrows furrowed. My story isn't a common one for tributes. Very rarely are they married or pregnant, let alone both. I'll touch the hearts of the Capitolites for sure. I have to.
"Now, Grizelda. Reina is going to be an obstacle to victory in the Games, is she not? How do you plan to win?"
I swallow hard, my heart beating fast. "I don't think of her as an obstacle. She's what's pushing me forward. I'll do anything to give her life. Anything. I would kill anyone and endure anything to that my husband can hold his daughter in his arms."
My timer goes off before I can say anything further. I want to stand and scream at the audience to save my baby, but I stay calm and make my way down to my seat beneath the stage. The Eights are purposely avoiding my eyes, and I know why. It's the same reason that the Tens rejected my alliance. Knowing you'll have to kill a pregnant girl is uncomfortable, so they'd rather just ignore me.
Triple A's interview is next. Caesar introduces him with fervor, and the audience immediately gets a kick out of his outfit. I can't blame them, the little trooper outfit is hilarious, but the best part is how Triple A carries himself so seriously, almost like he's enjoying it.
"Welcome, Albert!" Caesar says. "You're looking very proper this evening."
"Thank you, Caesar. I like this, actually." Triple A looks down at his green sash. "I love nature, so I feel complete in this."
"That's good to know,"Caesar says. Triple A smiles softly. His quiet voice and self-assuredness give him a mature but easy-going demeanor.
"Is that how you nabbed a seven in training?" Caesar asks.
"I don't want to reveal anything," Triple A laughs quietly. "But I am very familiar with some of the survival skills that we were taught. I've always loved being in nature, and connecting with it."
"That's a beautiful way of putting it," Caesar says, sounding impressed. "What about people back home? Anyone else who loves nature as much as you do?"
"My sister Ellie too afraid to go with me," he says with a nostalgic smile. "But my friends Minka and Keesher are always up for anything."
"They sound wonderful. What about plans for the arena? Anything special?"
"It would depend on the arena itself," Triple A says expertly."But the best way to survive is avoid everyone else. Stick to myself, live off the land, and stay alive."
"That does sound like a good strategy."
The timer goes off then, and Triple A descends to us while the audience claps for him. They are clearly intrigued by him; his young age and high score are enough to gain him attention even without the mysterious aura around him.
Filly Marcoffe (18)- D10F
I give Denver an encouraging pat on the shoulder as the Avoxes take me backstage. I know he's nervous for his interview, but he'll do fine. I've been trying to tell him not to worry about it, but that doesn't work with most people. I imagine everyone, even the Careers, has been thinking about this moment since the Reaping. Personally, I'd rather just have a good time. If I die tomorrow, I don't want my last day to be full of worry and nerves.
My jumpsuit is a little ridiculous if you ask me, but I try not to think about it too much. It's not really for me anyway, it's for the Capitolites to look at.
"Everyone, please welcome Filly Marcoffe from District Ten!"
I'm pleased to see that the audience loves me, my supporters shouting my name and throwing things to me onstage. I grin and wave at them, cheerfully shaking Caesar's hand.
"Welcome, Filly!"
"It's great to meet you, Caesar!" I say excitedly, taking my seat.
"You look beautiful today!"
"Ah, thank you." I roll my eyes a little. "I'm not used to wearing girly things. This was my compromise."
The audience laughs and I grin at them again. How could anyone not like this? It's fun having so many people hanging on your every word.
"Why is that? Are there a lot of boys in your family?"
"All boys," I confirm with a nod. "My mother died when I was young, so I live with my father, brother, and Louie."
I don't realize the part about my mother could be sad to some until I hear the sympathetic noises from the audience.
"I don't remember her much, though," I assure them. "But everyday I remind myself to live carefree, because it could be my last."
The Capitolites murmur among themselves like I've just said something wise and unheard of. Maybe they don't think too much about their own deaths.
"I think that philosophy would be great for everyone to try," Caesar says approvingly. "Now, who is Louie? A boyfriend, perhaps?"
"Oh, no, Louie's my grandfather!"
The audience quickly shifts back to laughter. Once it dies down, Caesar wipes his eyes and asks, "So no boyfriend? Not anyone special for you waiting back home?"
"Nope. Except for my family. They are very special to me."
I can tell I'm killing it by the response that elicits.
"Of course," Caesar says with a smile. "Well, you have great odds with an eight as your training score, and a loving fanbase. But do you think that's enough to win?"
"I know I have what it takes," I say confidently. "I've worked with animals and nature my whole life. I know how to use weapons, and I'm strong."
"It certainly seems like it," Caesar says. My timer suddenly goes off, signaling uproarious applause from the crowd. I wave to them as I descend to the seats below the stage, then settle in comfortably. I'm glad this all went well. It seems everything is boding well for me tomorrow.
"Ladies and gentlemen, Denver O'Casey from District Ten!"
Denver is shaking slightly when he appears from backstage, his eyes wide behind his glasses. He extends his hand to Caesar but doesn't shake it, apparently too inside his head to realize what's going on around him. He stares at the audience when he sits down, a few people cheering him on after the applause dies down.
"Welcome, Denver! Have you been enjoying the Capitol so far?" Caesar asks.
Denver turns to look at him, his mouth hanging open a little. He swallows and says, "Yes, I like it."
"Do you miss home though?"
"Yes." Denver swallows hard again. "I miss my family and my pets."
"Your pets? What pets do you have?"
"I have a dog named Buddy and two cats named Alfie and Archie."
The audience coos at him, and I feel myself start to smile. One of the things that Denver and I have in common is a love of animals. Something inside me stirs at the thought of my horses. If I never see them again, they will never know why.
"They sound sweet," Caesar says. He's clearly putting on his little kid voice and mannerisms, smiling gently. "What kind of dog is Buddy?"
"He's a mutt," Denver says. "He's big and brown. Alfie and Archie are Turkish Vans."
I know the Capitol probably won't be impressed by the dog, since they only really care for purebred animals. All people in Ten know that the Capitol loves brand names.
"Oh really?" Caesar says with interest. "What do Turkish Vans look like?"
"Well, they're both white with orange heads and tails. And they're really fluffy and soft."
"They sound lovely. What about your family? Do you miss them?"
"Yes, I miss them a lot. My sister Daelyn especially. She's very funny and she's a great story-teller. We're best friends. This is her necklace." He reveals a necklace that was under his dress shirt. It's a small silver one with a heart charm on the end. The audience croons again, some applause starting again. It's a pretty necklace, but the simplicity of it probably makes it more endearing to the Capitol.
"I also have my brothers Paxton and Tallen and another sister Carissa. And my parents… I miss them all." His body is shaking a little, and his voice is wavering, but he's powering through.
"A large family is a blessing, isn't it?" Caesar says warmly. It almost seems like he actually cares about Denver. "Do you have any hobbies at home? Anything you like to do?"
Denver exhales loudly. "I do pretty good in school. In my family I'm the guy who likes animals. My parents are butchers, so that sets me apart."
There's some huffs of laughter from the audience. Denver smiles nervously. His timer goes off not long after that, and he jerkily stands up and comes down to the seating area. He sits down next to me and I can hear his quick breathing.
"You did a good job," I say with a smile.
Marjoram "Jo" Paella (17)- D11F
I'm grateful for my plain dress. It's a simple white one that ends at my knees, complete with a fluffy shawl around my neck and my hair done up in an elaborate bun. The hair and accessories remind me of Capitol fashion, but the simple dress makes me look like an angel that's accidentally fallen into hell. My makeup is minimal as well, making me more recognizable.
I hold my breath as I wait for Caesar to announce my name. I know what I need to do. Seeder and I have been going over my answers for hours. I just need to get through the next three minutes.
"Please welcome Marjoram Paella of District Eleven!"
The crowd erupts into applause, and I'm pleased to hear that it's slightly louder than some of the other tributes. My name isn't just causing intrigue then, but actual sympathy.
Caesar is waiting for me by the chairs, and I give him a pleasant smile as I shake his hand before sitting down.
"Welcome to the Capitol, Marjoram! Or have you been here before?"
Hunts of laughter course through the audience.
"Actually, this is my first time," I say with a smile. "I was born in District Eleven and I've never left until now."
Now the audience seems even more sympathetic. Caesar nods gravely. I wonder if they realize that other Eleven citizens never get to leave either, or if they only care when it comes to me.
"That sounds rough. Your parents are from the Capitol, though, aren't they?"
"Yes, they moved to eleven to be teachers," I say. "They love it there and so do I. I never really thought about this happening to me before."
"Well, you did volunteer," Caesar says knowingly. "Who did you volunteer for?"
"My friend, Marigold," I say, swallowing hard as I prepare to tell my rehearsed lie. "She's really sweet, but I didn't think she had what it takes to be a tribute, let alone a victor."
"So you tried your own hand at victory," Caesar says, nodding in approval. "Very brave of you. Are you going to show Panem how tough Capitolites can be?"
"I'm representing District Eleven," I say sharply before I can stop myself. "But… the Capitol holds a special place in my heart. I didn't think I'd ever get to see my parent's homeland."
More noises of sympathy. It seems that the Capitolites only care about people that are similar to themselves, even if technically I have nothing in common with them. Maybe they're thinking about their own children, and if they had moved to an outer district before they were born. And despite my disgust, I'm glad my strategy is working.
"Are you liking their homeland? Or do you miss your home?"
"A little bit of both," I say. "I miss my parents, but Eleven is nothing like the Capitol. I don't think I've worn this much fancy clothes in my entire life! And the parties look wonderful!"
"Yes, they are," Caesar says with a small smile. "It's a shame that you can't go to one before the Games begin."
"I know!" I pout a little in the cute way that the Capitolites like. "I guess I'll just have to win so I can experience the Capitol properly."
"That sounds like a good plan."
My timer goes off, the sound deafening, and I stand to blow kisses to my admirers. Several people shout my name as everyone applauds me, and I make sure to wave to them all as I descend to the seating. The other tributes don't look at me as I approach, which I don't know is normal or if they're giving me the cold shoulder. Even if they're angry at my choice of angle, they must know I have no choice. Everyone is doing whatever they can to survive.
"Our next guest is Tomas Fields from District Eleven!"
Tomas looks like a true Capitol man as well, his hair gelled back and glittering with gold, his dark blue tuxedo making him look like a Capitolite movie star. He shakes Caesar's hand without much emotion, apparently too shocked by the audience's screams to put on an act.
"Welcome, Tomas! It's great to have you here."
"It's great to be here," Tomas says with a forced smile. It isn't very convincing, and I'm wondering what his play is.
"Are you enjoying the Capitol so far?"
"Yes, I am."
"I imagine you miss your home, though."
"I… I do."
Maybe his strategy is to be withholding. Caesar has a small smirk on his lips when he asks, "Any special girls back home? You're a very handsome young man. Both you and Miss Marjoram are attractive for your district, are you not?"
Tomas' brows furrow slightly as he tries to understand what Caesar is saying. I can tell he doesn't quite understand it, my own anger burning deep in my chest, but he still says, "Yeah… but I don't have a girlfriend."
"No? Well, you seemed very upset at having to leave District Eleven. What was going through your head during the Reaping?"
It's clear Tomas catches on immediately this time, and I wish Caesar hadn't asked that question. I had learned very quickly that the Reaping ball incident was a touchy topic for Tomas.
"I was… just upset about leaving my home," he says slowly.
"Some people here think that your show was a display of strength and guts. What do you think about that?"
"I am strong," Tomas says, clearly at a loss of what to say. "I was angry because…" his brows furrowed, he trails off.
"Well, how do you feel now? Are you more confident in yourself?"
Tomas stares at Caesar incredulously. Then he abruptly stands and spits at his feet, storming off stage as quickly as possible. The crowd gasps and immediately starts whispering and rustling around. Caesar laughs nervously and stands as Tomas sits down next to me, his face red from anger.
"A gutsy show from Tomas Fields," Caesar says. "I guess one controversy wasn't enough."
The crowd laughs and Tomas huffs beside me. I wonder if he knows that he's continuously planting a target on his back for the Gamemakers every time he disobeys.
Rooker Holm (13)- D12M
Eryn has left and now I'm all by myself in the hallway. Last place isn't a coveted spot for anyone, but it's worse for me. I've been sweating for so long that now my back dress shirt is drenched, and my once-styled hair is flattened. My stylist will probably be disappointed in me, but I can't think about that right now. I have to make sure that the Capitol loves me, but I don't know how. Haymitch wasn't much help, and Effie only said that we should talk about things that make us happy so that the audience will be happy. I'm not sure what that means, but even if I did, I'm sure whatever makes me happy wouldn't interest the Capitol. They like fashion and blood and food, and I… like food. Maybe that could work.
"Ladies and gentlemen, Eryn Winters from District Twelve!"
Eryn looks mature and beautiful in her sweater dress, her eyes glittering silvery-blue from her makeup. She shakes Caesar's hand, and the contrast between them is shocking. Caesar doesn't even look like a person while he's next to her.
"Welcome, Eryn!" he says as they sit down. Eryn waves shyly to the crowd, causing more people to scream in excitement.
"How have you enjoyed the Capitol so far?"
"I like it a lot," Eryn says softly, clasping her hands in her lap. "My stylists are really nice."
"I suppose we have them to thank for how beautiful you look tonight," Caesar says approvingly, looking to the crowd for their agreement. They clap and whistle again, making Eryn blush.
"I like it too. It reminds me of home."
"Do you miss your home at all, my dear?"
"Yes," Eryn says, her eyes glistening a little as the camera zooms in on her. "I have a large family, with five sisters. One of them is my twin Merylla."
"Another twin! It's rare to have three twins here in one night. Maybe it means good luck!"
"I hope it brings luck to me," Eryn says shyly. "Not to them."
The crowd thinks that's hilarious for some reason, and I rub my palms together nervously. What am I going to do to make them laugh?
"You seem like a sweet, charming girl," Caesar says once he's finished chuckling. "What do you do at home?"
"My family makes candy. Maybe that's why you think I"m so sweet."
The audience loves that as well, and Caesar laughs while hitting his knee in an exaggerated way. "You're the quietly funny type, I see," he says with a smile. "And very sweet, of course."
Eryn's timer goes off not long after that and she drifts down to the seating area. I feel my hands start to immediately sweat again, my breaths coming quickly. I try to get ahold of myself, standing up straight as the Avoxes escort me up to the backstage. I decide my strategy is just trying not to throw up.
"Now for our final guest, Rooker Holm of District Twelve!"
The doors open and a cacophony of sound pours over me, almost enough to take my breath away. After a few seconds, I start to walk to where I know Caesar is waiting, watching the crowd cheer for me, unable to believe where I am right now.
"Welcome, Rooker," Caesar says, extending his hand to me. I shake it, and I'm glad he doesn't immediately wipe it off on his bright yellow suit. He sits down and I follow suit, trying to focus on his words.
"Did you get bored waiting for your turn? I always pity the boys from Twelve since they're always my last interviewee!"
I swallow, trying to find my tongue and think of something worthwhile to say. "I-I wasn't b-bored. I was l-listening. Watching."
Caesar nods. "Right. So, you have you liked the Capitol so far?'
"I think i-it's okay."
"Just okay?"
"I-I mean-!" I suddenly realize what I've said. "It's g-great! I-I wish I could l-live here." I can feel my body shaking and hear my voice trembling. I know I'm coming across as a terrible tribute, so I try to get it together, squeezing my hands into tight fists in my lap.
"Well, that is what every victor gets to do during the Hunger Games season," Caesar says, smiling kindly at me. "What will you do to become a victor?"
"I-" My mind goes blank. "I need to survive and- find food and water. And- and stay away from everyone else."
"That is a strategy that's worked for many past victors. Is there anyone waiting for you at home? Mom and Dad perhaps?"
"Yes, my parents," I say quickly, trying to show the audience that I can actually talk. "My dad is a coal miner and my mother is a teacher. I miss them a lot."
"I imagine their very proud of you."
The comment is so strange that I have no idea how to respond. After a moment, I say, "Yes."
"Do you have any friends in Twelve?" Caesar prompts me.
"My best f-friend is Flint. He's nice and smart. And his sister Gaia is- she's pretty and- nice."
Caesar takes the opportunity I've accidentally given him and pounces. "Oh? Is Gaia a lady friend of yours?"
"No-no!" I shake my head violently, sure that I must look crazy. "She's a friend. She's older than me."
My timer goes off and the audience claps politely for me. I know I've lost them as I sadly make my way down to my seat. I'm not smart or cute enough to be a real contender at my age. I guess I'll just have to rely on myself.
Whoo! I'm glad to have this chapter out of the way. Only one more to go before the bloodbath! Whose interview did you enjoy the most? Did anyone surprise you?
Since the Games are creeping up on us, I would check your sponsorship points on my profile to make sure your number is correct. If not, send me a PM and I will check it. I've been keeping up the best I can, but I know I've probably missed a couple reviews. After the bloodbath is posted, my inbox will be open to receive sponsors!
I also am going to start a poll on my profile asking who your favorite tributes are. Vote if you're interested! All readers are welcome to do so. You can choose three tributes who you like the best or who you would like to win. The results of the poll aren't going to change the outcomes of the Games (I already have the bloodbath all planned out), but I'm really curious about who is most popular so far, and I think it will be interesting for other readers as well.
One more thing: I have a Pinterest board for this story! I created it a few weeks ago and I've been posting on it regularly since then. I started the board just for myself, but I thought it would be fun to share it with you. It's just an aesthetic board for these Games, with pictures that I imagine being of the Capitol and various districts. But the best part is: there are also some hints about the arena. They might not be too obvious since there are lots of pictures of the districts as well, but maybe you will identify the hints right away; I'm not sure. If you do think you know something about the arena, please don't post them in your reviews as not to spoil it for people who don't want to know yet. I'm going to continue posting on it as the Games continue to give you a better idea of what the arena looks like.
I can't figure out how to post the url (lmao) but if you look up "Pinterest mischief739", you'll find my account. The board is called "Born to die" and it should be one of the first ones to pop up. You don't need a Pinterest account to look at it. If anyone would tell me how to post a url on here I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks so much for following this story for so long! It means a lot to me. Until next time~