Rated Adult for Violence, Language.

008A

Brenton

The hallway is darker than I remembered as I make my way past the colorful tapestries and the anxieties I've been suffering for the last few hours is to a boiling point. Every bit of will power I have keeps me moving forward as I finally reach the tall wooden doors.

I take a few seconds before I push the doors open, a deep groan emanates from the doors. I keep my hands on the right side door as I walk over the threshold. I remain near the door frame as I search the office for its inhabitant.

I find him standing in the corner with his back to me. He seems unaffected by my presence as he holds a book flipping through the pages. I debate on whether to exit or to walk in further, but I decide on the latter.

I clear my throat, assuming he'll finally turn around instead he extends his free hand pointing behind him towards me.

"Close the doors, Mr. Mellark."

I nod, turning around slightly to reach the doors and pull them closed behind me. I release the knobs and turn back to facing where he remains to stand.

I begin to walk towards his desk which sits in the middle of the room. He turns around to face me his slender build glides up toward where I stand. He still holds the book as he approaches the desk, setting the book down gently.

He looks down to where the book now lays a piece of his dark hair falls out of place to lay against his jaw line. He reaches up with nimble fingers to smooth it back with the others. He looks to where I wait, my hands shoved into my pockets.

"I suppose you have questions to why I have asked you to come here at such a time."

"The thought has crossed my mind."

He studies me for a few seconds before he furrows his brow," You haven't been sleeping, have you?"

I shrug indifferent," Sleeps not really a concern when you're hours away from your execution."

Plutarch watches me closely," Such a bleak outlook?"

"It's a bleak time."

Plutarch rounds the desk ending up at my side," It doesn't have to be."

"What would you suggest to change the fact I am going to be sacrificed in the name of entertainment on the sole fact of who my father is?"

"There's nothing I can do to change the course of events which are to unfold, but I am willing to help ensure some faith in yourself which you are lacking."

I begin to open my mouth to question his meaning when he unfolds his hand slowly. Curiosity has taken over when I peer down into his hand. A golden pin with a bird in the middle clutching an arrow in its beak lies in the center of his palm.

"It's a piece of jewelry."

He shakes his head," My boy it's more than just a pin; it's a symbol of free thought. A symbol of how some things cannot be silenced. It's the epitome of resilience."

I raise an eyebrow," You get all of that from a bird pin?"

Plutarch shakes his head and I think I almost see the start of a grin," You are so much like your grandfather," this perks my interest and I begin to question him when he continues on," Do you know the story of the jabberjay?"

I nod," Yes, my mother told me of it. The Capitol created these birds to be spies but when it was discovered by the Capitol that the birds could be fed any type of information even false details, they released the birds into the wild to die off, but instead they thrived by mating with female mockingbirds to create the mockingjay bird," I run my hand through my hair confused," What does it have to do with anything?"

Plutarch extends his hand hovering it above my closed fist, as he waits for me to finally open mine as he drops the pin into my palm. It's lighter than I would have assumed and I look up to him questionably. He nods toward my hand, as he crosses his arms.

"Turn the pin over to where the clasp lies."

I furrow my brow, as I roll the pin over in my hand, when the clasp is facing upwards I squint to look where he has instructed. At first I don't see anything until I look a bit closer. Very faintly a name is scrolled and it takes me a few seconds before I can even make out the lettering.

My mouth moves slowly as I carefully sound out the letters," Luka Mellark," I allow the name to roll of my tongue as the realization sinks in," Peeta's father? My grandfather?"

"Yes, this pin belonged to him," Plutarch looked down taking me aback as it's the first time I've ever seen him lower his guard," He was a good friend of mine. We both served on the council together, but Luka was always of pure character. He was better than the rest of his fellow Capitol born."

I study him for a few minutes before I ask him the question I've wanted to utter for a while," Why are you telling me all this?"

"Because you need to know who you are, where you come from, who has come before you, before you can fully evolve into your potential."

I wrap my fingers over the pin, as I extend my hand to his," I think you have me mistaken with someone else, I'm not who you would assume me to be."

Plutarch pushes my hand back to my chest," I'm not wrong in my faith of who you have the fate to be."

"I'm sorry but I'm not Peeta or Luka Mellark. I'm not who you're looking for."

"Perhaps the problem is not with my predictions but with the lack of faith you have in yourself, Mr. Mellark?"

"I-"

"You are this pin, Brenton. You are resilience, and you thrive in hostile surroundings. There's a fire in you, and the only fault I see in you is your inability to allow this inner fire to roam free. Your own fear will be the thing which kills you."

I squeeze the pin tight as it presses into my palm," Well, I suppose after tonight one of us will be proven wrong."

Plutarch looks at me dead on," I pray to the spirits, it will be you who is proven wrong."

008B.

Brenton

It's a long walk back to the training area from Plutarch's office than I would have assumed. When I enter the training room, all of the weapons and training dummies are put away. The room looks as if it did before I ever set a foot inside of it. I still hold the pin in my palm and I'm half determined to drop it on the floor and leave it to be picked up or stepped on.

Plutarch's intentions were noble but they only remain as a constant reminder that I fall short of all the expectations everyone seems to have of me. The more I learn of my lineage the more I feel invisible. I feel the surname strangling me, and all I want is to be able to breathe.

I almost miss him leaning against the wall, startling me which causes me to trip over my own feet which pitches me forward a few feet. Haymitch shakes his head as he places the silver flask against his lips.

"You better hope you have more grace than that in the arena."

I ignore his quip as I right my footing," What are you still doing here? I thought the mentors were supposed to already be in the Elective's box by now."

"Elective's box," he scratches his head as if he had misplaced something," Oh, yes that over indulgent rat den. It's not hard to understand I have to be drunk around that frilly lot, but they don't have the good sense to stock it up with liquor that can actually do some damage, there's only colorful fruity swill."

I roll my eyes," My heart goes out to you, really Haymitch. Your biggest problem is having to pass out on water down concoctions when all I have to deal with is not getting my throat slashed."

Haymitch stands up, his face scrunched," You're mean when you're grumpy."

"Grumpy? I think frightened was the word you were looking for."

Haymitch walks toward me," What do you have to be scared of?"

I let out a short laugh," Are you kidding me? I'm about to be thrown into the lion's den and you're treating it as something as mundane as taking a stroll through the forest!"

Haymitch stops in front of me, sighing," Kid, all you have to do is have a little faith in yourself. You're ready."

I look him straight on," Am I?"

Haymitch takes in a deep breath, as he looks down at his feet than back to me," I'm not wrong in assuming you viewed all of the tapes of my games," I shake my head as he continues on," It was different for me, I didn't have a family waiting for me on the outside, hell I hardly even had a mentor for training before I first stepped a foot into the arena.

I had a few skills from before I came to the farm, but what I really took from was my anger, the huge knot of rage inside of me. It wasn't about surviving for me it was about spreading the pain around. I wanted everyone to feel the over powering grief I felt every day. So when I would fight it was from somewhere primal and eventually I was lost in it.

After awhile all the bloodbaths and killing ran together, there were times I would lose days. Finally I was released from the farm, but I was so far gone I wasn't even a shadow of who I had been. After a few years of scavenging I met someone who showed me the way, he helped me find my path.

He used to tell me that there are no victories only battles, and the most important thing is where we chose to make our stand," he motioned down to my clutched hand waiting for me to unfold my fingers to reveal the gold pin within," You hold his pin now," The shock on my face is obvious as I search his face," The real question is Brenton, is this where you make your stand?"

"All I know is if I'm going to die I want to still be who I am, but that's the point I don't know where I begin. I have no idea who I am."

"Well today is as good a time as any other."

"What if I do find out and I don't like what I see?"

"Look kid, it's no shock that I don't like most people," I can't stop the sharp snort which sounds between us," but I see you. I watch how you are with the younger codes, how you look at Daria. You have a quality in you that's not seen around here very much… you're honorable and that will carry you further than any type of rage ever will and that's what you need when going up against Snow. You're good kid; show them how good you are."

"What if I enjoy the killing? When I was beating Cray, I felt vindicated. I liked it. What if I become lost too?"

Haymitch reaches down folding my fingers back over the pin," Then I'll be there to pull you back, like your grandfather did for me."

008C.

Brenton

The corridor leading to Cinna's studio is significantly more vacant than it had been before. The sounds of the footsteps behind me echoed underneath the under tones of the wind howling outside. I glance behind me to clarify the Keepers are still close, regretfully the men keep a close proximity to me and I roll my eyes at their presence.

I was shocked when they had come into the training room unannounced; arriving seconds after Haymitch had left. He had given me one last look before gave me a curt nod, as he vacated the room. I stood there frozen watching the space he had occupied, until the Keepers had moved me along with the threat of shooting me in my place.

I quipped about the unfortunate inconvience they would have to suffer if Elective Snow learned of their executing his new rising star primarily because neither one had the patience to wait a few seconds. Neither one responded and I thought it best not to instigate anything.

The halls are still washed with color and I snicker to myself the irony of a place so bright in color but so dark with its actions. We finally reach the doors; I reach out pushing them forward. A sweet smell hits me head on, and I can't help but smell it in deeply.

I spot him before I'm able to set foot into the room. He's hunched over, his hands are working on something and I feel almost rude to be interrupting him, as I clear my throat loudly. He gives a sharp turn of his head to peer behind him; his face is concentrated and stern until it registers who I am.

A small smile comes over his features and he waves me in, as he turns back to his work laying something out before standing to turn. I'm still standing in the door frame when he waves me again as he approaches me.

"Come in, come in," I step through, the Keepers follow but Cinna holds his hands up," No, not you! I can't have all those guns about when I'm trying to work! Out, the both of you!"

Both of the Keepers look like scolded children and I try to hide the smile on my face. I step further into the room as the doors close behind me with a resounding click.

I hook my thumb behind me," Snow's afraid I'll try to make a run of it. He's making his drones sure I don't make it so. He doesn't want to miss out on his blood bath."

Cinna nods slowly," I assumed so, but you're not the running kind are you Brenton?"

I shake my head," No."

Cinna rubs his hands together, clearly pleased as he starts to circle me.

"I've designed and created what you'll need to wear for the arena as well as any individual specifications you'll need regarding your weapons of choice."

"I didn't know preparing to die warranted such an affair."

Cinna stops his movement as he looks at me," Are you?"

This catches me off guard," What?"

"Are you preparing to die?"

"Cinna let's be realistic, here. I know my place, I'm the sacrificial lamb. The last nail in Peeta Mellark's coffin. Snow's using me to finally destroy any fraction of power the resistance has. If I was any other code I would be on wash duty."

"Perhaps you should see this as being reborn?"

"I don't follow."

"You're going to be tested in the arena. You'll discover depths to your psyche you never knew existed, and the real choice is how you venture through those toils and snares? Will you allow yourself to merely be lost or beaten or will you draw a sense of power from them?"

"I'm afraid I'm not strong enough for this."

Cinna walks toward where he had been working before," I'm betting you are."

The side of my mouth rises slightly, before I become solemn again. I watch him closely as he reaches up to a garment bag unzipping the vinyl slowly. He reaches in with his free hand pulling out a leather breast plate dyed red and black.

He walks over to me after he's discarded the bag holding onto the armor with extended arms. He stops in front of me speechless as I observe the intricate designs. Over each strap is a type of lettering following by what seems to be flames.

The center of the piece holds an oak tree with flames surrounding it. I reach out to trace the stitching with my fingers. I linger on the writing, before I look up to Cinna as he studies my reaction.

"What does the lettering say?"

Cinna looked at me seriously as he inhaled slowly," I am not who I am by accident. I am my actions, my choices. I am the voice of my own destiny," his fingers traced each word as he spoke periodically glancing up to me as if he had memorized the words," I will not go quietly, I am a resounding scream against injustice, and I am more than a piece in the game of tyranny."

"I like it."

Cinna holds the piece out to me," I thought if anyone could wear these words with truth, it would be you."

I take it tentatively, it's surprisingly light, " Thank you."

He walks back over to a bench which has fabric and more garments bags strewn about. He picks up a pair of simple black pants, similar to ones I wear now. He scans the area quickly, before he turns back to me.

"The prep team will be in shortly to help clean you up properly, so I can begin my work."

"I want to be optimistic but I have a feeling you have more in mind for me than this."

I hold the light armor up, as he nods a twitch of his mouth his visible.

"Tell me Brenton, are you afraid of fire?"

008D.

Brenton

My entire body is warm but I assume it's more of my perspiration from anxiety than the flaming cloak I now wear. I had initially been weary of Cinna's ideas to engulf myself in flames, but I decided to trust his vision.

After the prep team had covered me in every product in their arsenal, Cinna had fitted me for the armor and the black pants, thankfully he allowed me to wear the boots I had, they were already broken in and the last thing I wanted to deal with in the arena was a pair of shoes I wasn't comfortable in.

Granted it sounds bizarre to be concerned with something as incidental as foot wear but when you're more concerned with the pain in your feet than the person hurling themselves at you with fury, it helps to be comfortable.

The prep team vacated the room, although not before woman bathed in green was able to linger around my stomach. Cinna tried to hide his grin as he scolded here softly. When they were finally gone, Cinna helped me with the armor on, as well as tying on a brace for my arm which would allow me to shoot more accurately.

The breast plate slid on easily over my bare skin, as the sides were snapped on securely. The cloak had come last and I had to adjust it accordingly over my body, the weigh had more volume than I would have expected and I was curious as to why.

Cinna explained a layer of fluid was laced through the fabric, but wouldn't have contact with my skin or hair. I swallowed hard as he situated the cloak, and I genuinely prayed to spirits not to be burned to death. After I was dressed, a Keeper came to escort us up towards a tunnel which would lead to an open pathway where I would be presented to the Capitol as a competitor.

I heard the crowd before I saw the tall archway, light burst into the sky and I tried not to be unnerved by the spectacle of it all. The cloak's hood was over face, only my lips were visible, as I waited my turn to walk down the way. An announcer was filling the sky with its voice but the words became lost in the booming sounds cluttering the air.

The Keeper from before motioned for me to come forward, I moved slowly as Cinna followed. When we approached the opening, I peered out, a gasp escaped my lips as I saw the thousands of people clapping and chattering.

I felt sick and I could have passed out easily if I wasn't concerned with not displeasing Haymitch. I turned to Cinna as I heard my name being announced; an array of cheers and hisses filled the auditorium.

"Tell Daria that I-"

He held out a hand to signal me to stop," You tell her after you come out of the arena."

I nod sadly; I can only assume the pain in my eyes," Alright."

Cinna holds out the lighter to my cloak, as I hear him say one last thing before the fabric sets a blazed," Good luck, boy on fire."

I square my shoulders as I leave the protection of the dark tunnel. I try to keep my eyes forward but I can see the intensely colorful crowd waving their arms and clapping. The raring of the crowd id deafening as my name is once again announced and I'm afraid of tripping over my feet as I carry the heavy flames engulfed cloak on my back.

My skin is becoming warmer and I pick up my pace to make it to the other archway, allowing me to discard the cloak. I can barely hear my moniker announced over the loud speaker.

"Brenton Mellark, the Destroyer of Worlds!"

The pathway is long and daunting as I will my legs to take me the last hundred yards. I can see citizens blowing kisses my way and calling my name as if they knew me. It's pretend to them, their own paper dolls to dress and play with until they become tired and bored, trading in the tattered doll for a new one. However for the rest of us, this is our reality, it's another string connecting to the knot of our daily struggles, and the Capitol is another hurdle when we have to overcome.

I give the crowd a sideways glance before I make it to the archway. My cloak is still on fire, and I reach for one of my throwing blades to cut the cord free. The fabric falls from my body, the gravity taking it to the ground until it falls around me like a ring of fire.

The flames extinguishes as soon as it hits the ground and a cloud of smoke surrounds me. I try not to cough as I hear the crowd cheer even louder, and I realizes I have unknowingly presented myself to all of them. I look back to the other archway where I can faintly see Cinna nodding.

I return a sharp nod before a Keeper leads me down the corridor to a door, I stop walking to question him, and he looks at me calmly.

"This will be where you wait until you are called to enter the arena. Another Keeper will be waiting on the other side to instruct you."

I don't wait to thank him as I push the door open, to present a small room filled with nothing but the concrete on the floor and the making of the walls. It's small and I hardly have room to turn around. I search the room, trying to get an understanding of my surroundings, as I notice it lying there against the wall with a full quiver.

I take in a breath as I take in how beautiful it is, I had assumed I would be using the one from training, but the red designs dancing over the black pearl is exquisite. I pick it up getting a feel for the weight, and it feels like an extension of my own body. I slip the quiver on as I set the bow down at my feet to reach into my pocket.

The pin is light against my palm but I can sense the power it possesses, and I have the fleeting thought of my grandfather being at my side. I unhook the clasp to secure it on the strap of my armor directly across from my heart.

I placed my palm against it when it's settled and breathe in deep. There's a knock at the door in front of me and the door pushes open to reveal a Keeper waving me on. I pick up my bow walking through the door as he motions for me to stop. He presses his pointer finger against his ear, as if he's getting feed through an ear piece.

He nods animatedly before he waves me on, walking in front of me. I follow him as I grip the bow tightly and try to compose myself. My bangs fall around my face, and I'm too distracted to move them away.

The Keeper stops at a massive wooden door and the architecture of the walls surrounding it make me wonder exactly how old it really is. He stands to the side as the doors open, motioning for me to step forward I'm standing at the center of the threshold as I take the arena in.

The circumference alone is more than the compound of the camp doubled, as the ground is covered with sand. I'm pushed from behind as I stumbled past the doors; I regain my footing as the close behind me.

I look up assuming I'll see the peculiar faces of the Capitol citizens from earlier but I'm met with only sky. I walk out to the center griping the bow tightly, as I put my guard up, I'm not accurate of where the attack will come from but I'm positive one will soon show itself. I can't help the reflux of arming my bow when a booming voice sounds through the arena.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the first elimination bout! Let the Vanquisher Games Begin!"

My arms are raised as I take my stance, ready for anything. The arena is eerily quiet; I can feel the perspiration forming on my brow. My body darts to the side when I see about a dozen people on separate landing pads being risen up through the ground.

All of which have full armor on and like myself are armed. I recognize a few from the competitor quarters, and it's when I notice the one to my right, causing me to swallow hard. He was one of the careers who had joined Serkan in the meeting party, my first day at the farm.

I'm in the center of the arena, as I'm circled by all of them. I know I have no technical advantage and the only way for me to gain any upper hand is to get on the outside, so I can move easily. I have more than one spear pointed towards me, when I suddenly hear crying from the right.

I chance a glance towards the sound to see about a dozen codes pushed together in a cell of sorts. I remember what Carr had said about most codes being used as expendable deaths for the competitors and careers, when the front of the cell rises open and a rush of young men and women come running out, toppling over each other's body.

I can feel the panic rising through me but I try to keep calm as I call over my shoulder, my bow still raised for attack.

"NO! GET BACK BY THE CAGE!"

My words are too late as about half of the competitors have already made their way towards the codes as a flood of blood stains the arena floor, mixing in with the sand. The cries are unimaginable, as swords meet with flesh and bone. The other competitors are ripping their way through the crowd easily as the codes show no aspect of fighting back.

I foolishly turn towards the bloodbath to train my arrow at the throat of a career that has just decapitated a female code. I release the arrow, it flies through the air breaking through the sky and blood to lodge itself into his throat he drops his sword, as he lands on his knees, his body eventually drops into the pool of bodies and blood. I can now feel my adrenaline running through my veins and I send three more down the same way.

The codes who have survived the attack retreat to the far side, their bare feet stained with blood as the sand sticks to their feet. I don't allow myself to hesitate or to think as I dart behind the codes to follow. It's difficult to aim and run backwards than I would have imagined, but I'm able to take down another two competitors as they run towards us. Although I do miss a few times, before the competitors fall to the ground.

The codes have stopped near the far wall to catch their breath as I pull another arrow from my quiver. A burly man in armor comes barreling towards us, and my eyes sting from the sweat pouring into them. Everything is in slow motion as I see the other competitors have turned on each other.

I can hear only my own breathing and heart beat as everything becomes stalled in motion around me, as if I'm watching myself from the outside. My fingers holding the string back have already started to bleed, and I try to control my shaking.

I can hear some of the codes behind me yelling for me to release as he approaches, but I mentally shake my head, waiting for my time. I want him close enough for me to send a message, I need for the others to see the brutality, a warning to leave the children behind me be. I wait until I can see the color of his eyes until I let go, the arrow lodging into his eye as it sends him back with a blow.

I let the breath out I had been holding as his body hits the ground with a resounding thud. I reach back into my quiver, but my hand comes back empty. I start to reach for the blades at my waist, when the ground underneath me starts to shift.

I look around but on the far side the other competitors continue to kill each other unaffected by the tremors. I don't have enough time to turn around before the ground beneath the codes gives way, as half of them fall into a cavern of nothingness.

I drop my bow to the ground and leap forward landing on my stomach hard as my right arm extends out, my hand catching a young girl with dark hair by her forearm. She's shrieking as she kicks her legs and I yell at her to stop as the sweat of her body as well as my hand causes her to slip from grasp.

I look over as a young boy tries to get hold of the ground to lift himself up but his upper body strength is lacking. His nails scrap the sand before he finally plummets down. I'm struggling to pull the girl up, as she looks to my left screaming.

I glance over my shoulder to see a competitor with a sword rushing towards us. I begin to pull her up quickly, but I'm not quick enough before she slips through my fingers. I watch her scream as she falls and all of the air floods out of my body as the space between us becomes wide.

I don't have enough time to morn her before the competitor with the sword is almost upon me. I roll on my side to get away from the ledge; the sand sticks to the sweat of my body and embeds itself into the cuts and deep lacerations I have.

I make it to my feet before I have to jump back and miss from being slashed against the chest by the side of his sword. He advances on me and I side step to miss the sword, as I grab hold of the underside of his elbow, bringing it down to my knee, his arm instantly breaking. He calls out in pain as the sword drops, although his other arm makes a fist sending a couple of punches towards my face.

The pain is intense as I feel my nose crack, a barrage of blood flows into my mouth, and I spit the blood mixed with saliva and sweat into his eyes to get out from under him. His hands go to his eyes as I slip a knife from my waist, as my left hand goes to his shoulder for leverage as I sink the blade into his gut swiftly. He head butts me, my head snaps back but I have it in too deep for him to survive and he eventually falls to the ground.

I still have hold of the handle of the blade, as his body slips from it. I watch him lie there as he spits up his own blood, staring up at me until his breathing slows and his eyes go blank. I reach for my nose with my free hand, my shoulders slumped. I begin to fall to my knees as I see someone approaching me. I try to straighten my posture as I throw my bloody knife at their chest. They deflect it with their spear, as they barrel toward me.

A bronze helmet shows my own reflection as the career comes close to me, the spear is pointed at my throat, and I'm quick enough to reach for it as I try to wrestle it from their grip. I rear back kicking them in the gut as their hands leave the spear.

Their back lands on the ground, I'm posed to send the spear into their body when a long collection of blonde hair comes flowing out of the helmet. My eyes are wide and I hesitate giving her enough time to throw a blade I hadn't seen at me, it lodges into my leg and I call out in pain, causing me to drop the spear.

She starts to get up slowly, still dizzy from my kick, as I reach for my waist. I search for a blade but come up empty. I grit my teeth as I pull out the blade in my leg, a rush of blood comes flowing out and I can't help the shaking that starts to take over my body.

I flip the blade in my hand, before I send it towards her, causing it to plant itself into her thigh. She stumbles back, landing on her back once again. I wipe my mouth clean with the back of my hand, before leaning down to pick up the spear.

I walk over to her with a limp as she's struggles to take out the blade. Her eyes are wide as I stand over her the spear rising in the air above her. I can feel the tears starting well up in my eyes and I take a deep breath.

My voice is low and raw," I'm sorry."

And with all of my strength I send the spear down into her chest piercing her heart. I close my eyes as I grind the blade deep. I can feel my legs shake, as tears mix with the blood and sweat of my face. I take a few seconds before I open my eyes to look at her, as she lays still her arms spread out around her.

I let go as I stumble back almost landing on my back. I almost fall as a loud gong goes off, and what was the sky melds into a stadium full of Capitol citizens. The roar of the crowd is overwhelming and I try to block out the sound as I look around me. On each side is a massive screen showing a live feed as I stand on wobbly legs in the center of the arena.

I finally find the clear box as Elective Snow claps his hands slowly, and I search for Haymitch, but come up empty. The announcer comes over the speakers, as the sound vibrates through my body.

"Ladies and Gentlemen this concludes round one! Please give applause for the competitor Brenton Mellark!"

I shake my head as I limp towards the exit, I keep my eyes forward. I can hear the announcer fumble over his own words as I ignore his and the crowds attempts to get my attention. I try to not look at the carnage of the arena, but I find myself having to step over different parts of people.

When I make it to the archway I push the doors open, the Keeper standing posts looks at me with wide eyes.

"You're supposed to be congratulated by Elective Snow and there's a presentation to be made."

I shake my head," Not this time. Not with me."

I drag my leg down the corridor, making my way back to where I could find any type of medical care. I would be forced to kill for them but I wouldn't give them the satisfaction of enjoying it.

008E.

Daria

My body aches as I serve a right cross to the head of the practicing dummy. I know resting would be the reasonable thing to do right now, but I'm anxious and if I stop moving all I can think about is the charming, albeit self deprecating, boy with dark hair.

It infuriates me how he seems to get under my skin, and I feel lost when he's not around. I haven't seen him since I returned from the Capitol, although some part of me is thankful. I'm confused as to how to act around him after I imagined being so intimate with him.

He has a way about him, and even if I deny it to myself I feel a pull towards him. I shake my head trying to clear it as I send another punch to the dummy. We had been obligated to watch the battle on a screen in the yard; normally this wouldn't have concerned me.

I was used to seeing the death of the arena, but as I watched him try to save the younger codes, and when the one's hand had slipped from his, I could see the pain in his eyes. I had to look away more than once, as I sat on the cold stone wall.

Usually I would have been taking care of the younger girls, allowing them to cling to me, and telling them when they could open their eyes, but I wanted to be alone in case I couldn't control my emotions. And it was there as I sat on the stone wall, that I realized I truly did love him, and it wasn't just something I thought in my head like everything else I felt.

I sat my hands on the dummies shoulders as I forced my knees into his gut. I wanted to feel the adrenaline soon, because I hadn't stopped worrying about him after he walked out of the arena, limping and bloody.

I had snuck into the courtesan quarters to change into a pair of exercise clothing, black pants and a racer back tank top. I knew it was risky being in his training area, but I wanted somewhere I could hide out and being the hell out of a training dummy seemed as good a pass time as any.

The door suddenly opening caused me to jump, as I turned quickly. I was preparing to come face to face with a Keeper, but instead deep blue eyes found me. He was wearing his competitor uniform of black pants and shirt again with his dark hair brushed back.

He stood in the doorway for a few seconds watching me before he stepped through, still sustaining his limp.

I try to keep the anxiety out of my voice," I was assuming you would have looked worse than you do."

He manages a quick grin," Well it so happens the competitors have a capable medical staff," he glances down to his leg," Although my leg is still a bit stiff, they said it'll be fine by the next time I compete."

I nod, " Good."

He turned slight as he kept eye contact with me as he shut the door. I kept my place as I watched him walk to the center of the room, the space between us less. My breathing quickened and I could hear my heartbeat in my ear drums.

I could see him fidget slightly, as he started to open his mouth to speak before closing it, and then sighing heavily. His eyes were pleading with me, as he started to walk towards me, but before I could control myself I ran towards him, my dark hair flying behind me until my body collided with his, almost knocking him down, my hair flooding around my face.

Brenton tightened his arms around me, as I laid my head against his chest. I slowly snaked my arms up to his broad back, my fingers hooking the material of his shirt. The heat of his body made me dizzy, as he laid his own face against the top of my head.

I could hear him breathe in slowly, and I couldn't stop the smile spreading over my face. I hear his heart beat and I feel so close to him. He took in a deep breath before, moving his fingers to tangle in my hair.

"I missed you."

My smile widened," I was so worried about you."

He began to pull away from me, his fingers leaving my hair, and I fought the urge to pull him back. I righted my body as he did his. He pushed his hands into his pockets, as I crossed my arms, my nails digging into my sides.

"You didn't have to worry Daria. I made it through."

"What's bothering you?"

"When I was in there I wasn't sure I would be able to kill until it was already happening," he moved his hand up to his hair, running his fingers through," It was as if I was outside of myself, and all I felt was survival, it was almost primal like Haymitch described. And when I had to kill that girl, I wasn't scared during or concerned for her, I was glad it wasn't me," he looks at me dead on," And do you want to know why? Because all I could think of was getting back to you. I thought about how I never kissed you."

"Brenton-"

"It makes me selfish."

I take him by the face, forcing him to look down at me," I saw how you were with the codes, how you tried to save the little girl. You gave up a technical advantage, you made yourself vulnerable. You did that to save someone else, that doesn't make you selfish."

"What does it make me Daria?"

"It makes you honorable," his eyes are burning through me, as his bangs fall around his face," It also makes you dangerous."

"Why?"

"You show hope, and that's not something the Capitol…Snow can afford."

"But I'm not any of those things; I was just trying to survive."

I move my hands to the back of his neck as I lean forward on my toes. I can see the questions in his eyes, as I inch my face closer to his. Everything rational in me is screaming at me to stop, that I can't afford to be emotionally entangled to someone like him, but all I can understand right now is the overpowering need to feel his skin against mine.

Our lips meet barely, and at first each of us is hesitant until he leans into me increasing the pressure. I'm afraid to move as he slides his own hands onto my cheeks, his fingers tangling in my hair. I'm still frozen as he presses his tongue against my lips asking for entry until I part my lips.

Our tongues tangle into each other's fighting for dominance, as I lean into him more. A moan escapes my lips and I can feel him smile against my lips. It's gentle at first but the tension begins to take root and the kisses become feverish.

I pull away from him first; I don't want to go any further without him knowing what I am. He's breathing hard, and my own breathing is labored. Brenton leans his forehead against mine, as he closes his eyes.

"I've wanted to do that since I first met you. The only reason I survived this long is because of you," he smiles softly," I think I've waited for you my whole life."

I take in a deep breath," I know how you feel."

008F.

The tunnel is dark as Katniss makes her way to the door leading into operations. She was thankful when Peeta had assigned her, her own authorization code granting her access. He had been awkward after their kiss, like ducking his head or trying to engage her in small talk.

She couldn't help but smiling at him, which only increased his embarrassment. The tension between them had lessened but the issues were still as parent as they had been. There was a silence between them in the room after he had pulled back from their kiss.

Katniss tried to busy her idle hands as she cleaned up the medicinal supplies, while Peeta pretended to be occupied by a stack of maps. After Katniss had situated the items, she had walked over to Peeta. She could see him darting his eyes over to her, while his hands fumbled with the thin paper.

Katniss had laid her hand over his pulling his fingers to twine with hers, the maps falling to the floor. He was still at first; she could tell he was hesitant as she stepped inside his personal space, her face tilting up to his. Peeta was frozen in his place as Katniss placed her lips ever so softly to his in a chaste kiss.

With their fingers still intertwined, she pulled back from him staring into his blue eyes. They stood there for the longest time, neither one moving as they watched each other. Finally, Peeta had brought their conjoined hands to his chest as Katniss once again stepped into him.

Katniss lips began to quiver and she could feel the air between them become thick. She could feel the heat of his body through his shirt, and she began to feel dizzy. Although her mind was clear and she couldn't wait till his lips were on hers again.

All of a sudden the door to Peeta's quarters began to open, resulting in the both of them to pull from each other rapidly; their fingers lingered beside each other for as long as they could before they severed the tie. Finnick looked rushed until he took in the both of them, a small grin coming over his face as Peeta cleared his throat rubbing the back of his neck, while Katniss' eyes looked anywhere but at the two men.

Finnick scratched the side of his face, as he began to walk towards Peeta but not before giving Katniss a small smile.

"Uh, Peeta they're starting. The procession is almost over, which means the arena games will begin."

Peeta nodded slowly," Ok. Thank you, Finnick."

Finnick looked to Katniss who had turned her back towards him," No problem."

Finnick let himself out without a word, closing the door behind him. Peeta looked over to Katniss sadly, as he began to walk closer to her.

"Katniss-"

Katniss turned toward him quickly before he could reach her," You should go. I just can't watch."

Katniss enveloped her arms into her body as Peeta stepped near her, pulling her side into his chest. He leaned down to kiss the top of her head.

"It's going to be fine, he's strong. He has you for his mother."

This grabs her attention as she moves her body to face him, her hands going to the sides of his face. She smiled faintly as she shook her head.

"No, he gets his strength from you."

Katniss sighed bringing her back into the present as she punched in the stream of coding to grant her access to the room on the other side. The beeping sound was insistent as the door let out a rush of compressed air, as it opened slowly.

Katniss pushed it open the rest of the way before she let herself in. The room was even more jolted with activity than it had been before, and she looked up to the screens hesitantly. Thankfully all there was featured was the Capitol emblem, the golden leaves entrapping the full winged bird.

Katniss couldn't helped by scoff at the symbolism of the majestic creature bounded by bines of someone else. She could hear Peeta's voice and she rushed over to him, pushing her way through a couple of people. He saw her before she approached him, answering the question she was attempting to ask.

Peeta let out a deep breath," He made it through."

Katniss body collided with his as he gathered her in a hug. She snaked her arms under his to lay her palms flat against his back while his fingers tangled in her hair. He breathed her in and he could feel her body begin to wrack with sobs. Peeta pulled back holding her face in his hands, his lips barely forming a smile.

"He's strong. He just came away with a few injuries."

Anxiety took her over and Peeta could see her panic," How bad is it?"

"Just a broken nose and a knife wound to the thigh. He's going to be fine. They'll want him healthy for the next time."

Katniss pulled away from him as she covered her face with her own hand. Peeta looked up to see Finnick motioning to the screen where they had been conversating at the center of the room. Peeta gives him a sharp nod as he places his palm against the small of Katniss' back leading her toward where Finnick waits. Katniss stops at the screen table in front of her, as she sees Finnick watching her.

"I'm glad he's alright."

She nods," Thank you."

He exchanges a look with Peeta quickly before motioning his hand over the screen.

"I've looked over these blue prints about a thousand times. It appears when Snow made a fortress he wasn't sparse with the details," Finnick waves his hand to the right causing another set of blue prints to appear," He completely had everything redesigned after you helped almost the entire code population escape," he waved his hand over the maps," There's just no way out."

Peeta nodded," That's alright," Finnick raised a brow as Katniss tilted her head just as confused," We don't need to worry about anyone getting out," Peeta leans over sliding his hand over the screen," We need to get in."

Finnick sighs," That's all well and good, Peeta. But we need to have an exit strategy."

"I agree. Then it's good we have the one person who actually escaped from the farm solely by herself."

Peeta turns to his side to look to Katniss who is at a loss for words as Finnick can't hide his own shock. Katniss' mouth hangs open as Peeta gives her a nod of encouragement, she shakes her head negately.

"Peeta no."

"You're the only who's ever succeeded."

"It took me a year of planning. I was on competitor quarters maid duty for six months before I even made my first move. I memorized every Keeper formation, the times they left their posts; everything was down to the wire. And when I finally made it to the tunnels around the arena, I waited three days underground in the sewage system, before I attempted to make it off the grounds," Katniss turned to Peeta frantically," Brenton doesn't have that much time."

Peeta laid his hands on her shoulders trying to calm her," Katniss I'll get us out, you just have to get us in."

Katniss motions to the screen," Peeta everything I could describe to you has gotten a face lift. It's entirely remodeled. Snow knew what he was doing. He's crazy not stupid."

Finnick leaned over the screen, looking to Peeta," She has a point Peeta."

Peeta looked down to Katniss, his eyes sure," You can do this. I know you can."

Katniss sighed nodding," How are going to get in?"

Finnick rounded the table screen to stand on the other side of Peeta," All the entry points are coded. And they're changed every two hours, so even if we were able to get our hands on a sequence it would be useless."

"That's why we go to the source."

Finnick shakes his head as he holds up his hand," Wait. Peeta the only people with the coding boxes are council members and Snow. What do you want to do? Just go up to them and say " hey, can I borrow this because I want to use it to break my son out as well as all the young victims you use for your own pleasure and entertainment on a daily basis?" Huh?"

Peeta shrugged," Well maybe not like that."

Finnick threw his hands up as Katniss sighed," Then how?"

Peeta looks to Katniss as he tilts his head to the side," We need to get up close and personal."

Finnick rubbed his face harshly," And who would be doing this?"

Peeta turns to Finnick," It won't be your daughter…I promise. Besides I don't want to blow Cinna's cover," Peeta turned back towards Katniss," I'm going to go."

Peeta could hear Finnick object behind him,"No way! Capitol citizens know your face better than they know their own."

"He's right Peeta. It can't be you."

"Then who then?"

Katniss breathed in deeply," I'll do it."

Peeta's eyes widened," No! It's not going to happen!"

"Excuse me?"

"No, Katniss."

"She's right Peeta; a woman would have an easier time getting close to one of them."

Peeta kept his eyes on the screen," Then we'll send someone else."

Katniss leaned into him to look into his face," Who? Everyone here is probably on a watch list. I haven't been seen in the Capitol in nearly two decades. I can do this."

"Then I'm going with you. Someone needs to have your back.

Finnick walked around Peeta to stand behind Katniss," I'll have her back. I've kept you alive all these years. I think if I can keep your stubborn neck out of a noose than the lady here is no problem. Plus, I know how to navigate around the Capitol. I know how they think, it tends to happen when they use you as a throw away napkin for years."

"I don't want you to be in harm's way."

"Peeta, I care about you and I appreciate your concern, but it's not really your decision."

Peeta turned to face her," Alright. We start in a few hours."

Finnick leaned over her placing his hands on her shoulders," Do you know how to be seductive?"

Katniss pushed his hands off dismissively," Don't insult me."

Finnick walked to the other side of the room to prepare for their assent into the Capitol, as both Peeta and Katniss stood watching each other. She wanted to reach out to him, but she knew how much he was hurting at the moment and she knew she had something to do with it.

Peeta cleared his throat;" Do you still know how to use a blade?"

Katniss nodded," Like a pro."

008G.

Brenton

I lean into the velvet material lining the seats of the train, every car is heavily decorated much like the corridors within the compound that connect to an officials office. I run my hands over the front of my suit jacket, wrinkles are already forming.

My suit is completely black except for the red lining the ends of the jacket. I was thankful Cinna decided to dress me in something simple and tasteful; I wanted to look the furthest from a Capitol citizen as possible. I had first objected when the prep team had stormed into the training area informing me I was expected to attend a gathering in the Capitol.

I was stubborn in my decision even more so when Flavius voiced Elective Snows wanting to see me immediately. I was glad Daria had left before they had burst in; she was flushed and anxious after we had kissed and I could tell she wanted to tell me something, but for whatever reason she was unable. I simply leaned over planting a soft kiss on the top of her head.

Her hands had lingered at my chest before she pushed from me to walk to the exit. I had expressed my interest in seeing her again before she left; Daria gave me a faint smile before nodding. I leaned my body forward, trying to keep sight of her for as long as I could.

It felt impossible to think of anything but Daria as I was escorted to Snow's office. The doors were closed as usual, and I waited for one of the Keepers to push it open. I was abruptly assaulted by the sickly sweet aroma of Snow's office, but I was steadier on my feet than before, causing my nausea to ebb.

He was sat behind his desk, as he pushed the chair back allowing him to straighten his posture. I stepped over the threshold, the doors closing behind me. I scanned the room for any other occupants but I was surprised being left alone with him. I kept my back straight as I looked him dead on.

"Do you think it wise to be left alone with a competitor?"

Snow sat forward in his chair as he began to laugh; his feet found the ground as he proceeded to stand," If you were to kill me, you wouldn't leave the grounds alive."

"I may be misinformed Elective but isn't it a punishable act to threaten your well being?"

He continued to become amused which only infuriated me more," For anyone else, yes. But you're an exception aren't you Mr. Mellark? You're unlike any competitor we've ever had, and not only based on your lineage. I have never seen such commotion from the Capitol before when regarding someone from the arena. You and I could do great things."

I had to shake my head," Are you trying to enlist me?"

Snow rounded the desk to stand directly in front of me," You could be powerful, anything you ever wanted. Privilege, money, women, anything you would desire-"

"As long as I stayed on my leash? I'm not foolish, I know you're the one pulling all the strings, and I don't want to play."

I can see Snow tense up, as he folds his arms over his chest," You're the fool, boy. You think you have any say in your actions?"

I lean forward narrowing my eyes," I've said no to you more than once haven't I?"

"You're to attend a social gathering tonight in the Capitol."

"I not in the partying mood."

"Find it or I'm sure Thread would be more than happy to find another female to shoot for his own liking."

I swallow hard," Fine."

Snow leans forward this time," You didn't say no."

I felt as if he had punched me in my midsection with his remark, as I turned to vacate his office. The halls were dark and void as I made my way back to the training area to be prepared for the Capitol engagement. The entire process was a blur, as my mind wandered.

Snow was becoming even more erratic, and I couldn't stop thinking of Daria, or how I was going to react to the narcissism of the Capitol.

The side door opening of the car gains my attention as Haymitch walks through, sliding it back behind him. He gives me a weak smile as he sits down next to me, his silver flask in his hand.

"You did good kid."

"So well I'm having to attend a party with people I openly detest, and a place that should for all purposes be burnt to the ground."

"Don't hold bad kid, let everyone know how you feel," he takes a swig of liquor as I glare at his sarcasm," Brenton you're going to have to act a certain way around some Capitol people. I'm not telling you to become what they are, but holding your tongue would be beneficial."

"You are aware of how hypocritical you sound right now."

"You're young kid, so right off you think you have everything figured out," Haymitch places a hand on my shoulder," Believe me, you don't know shit."

The rest of the train ride was made in silence, as I stared out the window watching country side form into great structures. I can hear the snoring coming from my side clearly and I assume Haymitch feel asleep when the train abruptly stops. I turn to my side to push him awake or give him a light slap to the face when he jumps up stretching his arms over his head as he yawns. I look to him a bit terrified by how quickly he woke, while he places his hands on his hips.

"Do you remember what I told you?"

"I don't know shit?"

Haymitch let out a hearty laugh," Yes, but I was referring to the other one."

I nod slowly," Ah, yes. To behave myself."

Haymitch snaps his fingers before pointing to me," That's the one!"

Shortly after a Keeper comes to the clear sliding glass to accompany us to the establishment of where the party will be held. When we exit the train I can't help but gawk at the structures around us, everything is alight with color and motion.

Massive screens, I'm later told by Haymitch they're called jumbtrons, are spread all through the complex we walk through, and as we walk pass one I spot a picture of Peeta, his name written in dark red bold letters. I try to linger below the screen but I'm ushered forward to the doors of a tall glass building.

When we enter everything is clean and simple, the opposite of the districts, without any real character or depth, but I suppose this is what the Capitol really is…flash without substance.

I can hear the commotion of the party before we ascend up the stairs. My hand grips the glass railing and I can feel Haymitch's hand on my shoulder. I glance to him as he walks behind me, as he gives me a reassuring nod, I slowly return the sentiment.

We aren't to the top of the landing before I'm bombarded by a slew of Capitol citizens; they're all talking at once, while their drinks slosh out above the rims of their glasses.

Haymitch walks around me as he stands behind the crowd, giving an assured look to me before he disappears into the crowd of people. I grit my teeth, as my jaw muscles flex, my irritation towards him leaving me around these people is not wavering.

But I assume this is much like the arena and I have to present a show to the ones watching. I sigh before smiling and pretend to be listening to what everyone is saying to me. Hands are touching my chest and arms, while they talk of how brave and handsome I am, even if my father is a known criminal, and how trying it must be for me to overcome such adversity, seeing how I'm district born, although it is troubling and sad how the only true Capitol born in my lineage was a traitor.

I want to spit back the atrocities of their statements but I merely nod silently. A woman washed entirely in blue is feeling my muscles underneath my suit jacket, when a man with peculiar facial hair grabs me by the arm. He pulls me through the crowd of upset citizens, waiting to talk to me after we're free from the others.

"It is so pleasant to have the Boy on Fire, to my gathering. I am Seneca Crane, I'm on the council."

I debate on pulling away from him until I raise an eyebrow in confusion," Boy on Fire?"

He nods," Yes that's what much of the Capitol is calling you," He waves his hand in the air to have the crowd part, allowing us to walk through," I throw this party after each bout, for the worthy competitors, interesting enough you're the first guest of honor to not be a career. I usually never bother with the district born contenders," I have to grit my teeth from speaking as he carries on," There's anything you wish to have here, refreshment, food, and even the company of a woman."

I try to hide the disgust from my face at his last statement as he leads me deeper into the room. Smoke lingers in the air and the heat from the crowded bodies is causing everyone to perspire. Most of the attendees are already intoxicated, and most are already participating in sexual acts at the edge of the crowd.

I try to avert my eyes, but I spot the courtesans quickly outside of the crowds as men and woman attack their bodies like animals. I see a flash of blonde hair, and I push the bile down my throat, the little girl from the hall comes into my mind, and I have to will myself not push through the crowds and beat the life out of the man who has his body against hers. I feel small and useless as the man with the beard leads me up a flight of stairs.

He lets go of my arm when we're halfway up, I'm thankful to have him away from me. I stop a few steps up when he starts to descend. He notices my confusion; a small crooked smile curls at his lips.

"I sensed you're a bit tense. I arranged for you to have comfort and a way to relieve any stress before you join us again."

I shake my head," I-"

His voice is hard as he points past me," Go."

I watch him disappear into the crowd, debating if I should sneak out a back entrance, but I don't want the girl beyond the stairs to be punished for my insubordination. I take in a deep breath as I take the remaining stairs by two at a time.

I make it to the top, where the bed room is, as my eyes land on a young woman standing at a window. Her back is to me, but I can't miss the flood of dark wavy hair at her back. The dress is made of what appears to be chain links which hides nothing as it dips down her back to stop just above her bottom, and it's not until she moves, that it's clear to me who she is.

I feel sick, I shut my eyes hoping for it to be a nightmare, but when I open them again she's still standing there.

My voice is raw and hoarse as I speak," Daria?"

She whirls around, to look at me and I have to advert my eyes when the cleavage of the dress slips from her chest, revealing her breasts. She moves the dress back in place, her eyes wide.

"Is this in my head again?"

I shake my head confused," No."

Her hand flies to her coral colored lips,"Oh no!"

I take her in fully for the first time seeing her this way. Her hair has been fashioned in slick waves as it surrounds her shoulders. She has minimal makeup on but her eyes are lined in silver and her lips are bright coral. She looks nothing like the girl I knew back at the camp, no longer is there strength, and I feel outraged.

"Are you a courtesan?"

She begins to walk toward me, her eyes are bright and I can see her beginning to cry, " Brenton-"

I walk away from the top of the steps toward her," Are you?"

She stops in front of me, her mouth opens to speak, and I can see how terrified she is, but I'm consumed with my own anger," Yes."

I run my hands through my hair, gripping at the ends before, looking to her," So everything with me was a just a lie? Something Snow put you up to, to distract me and punish me?"

"No! I would never do that! What happened between us was real, I meant everything."

"Coming from a known liar and actress? Isn't that what being a courtesan is? Playing your part?"

I hear the strike before I feel it, the connection of her hand against my cheek sends my head to the side. Her face is up against mine when I finally turn forward again. Her eyes are manic and angry, as the tears run down her face.

"..Me! You're so narrow minded."

I grit my teeth, before speaking," You're right I don't know you at all."

I don't wait for her to respond before I descend the stairs, and slip out around the crowd to find a back exit. I finally find one going toward the south end; I walk out of the building and back toward the train to wait for our ride back to the camp. I know I could escape now and find my way back home, but the only thing I feel now is heart break, and all I feel like doing now is dying.

008H.

Daria

I push against the door leading into Cinna's quarters, it opens slowly and I slip my body through the slim separation. The door closes behind me, after I give it a slight elbow from behind. I try not to wrinkle the dress in my hands, I suppose if you could call it such a thing.

Cinna had been upset when he fitted me for it, supposedly the order to dress all of the courtesan's in nothing but chainmail had come straight from Snow himself. Even after all the years having complete strangers see me naked, I was still embarrassed for others to see me so exposed.

I do however wonder if my feelings towards the clothing has anything to do with a certain boy with blue eyes and dark hair. I shake my head clear, as the tears begin again. I walk over to the far wall where Cinna keeps most of his creations and lay the gown down on top of a pile of garment bags.

My hands go to my face as the tears begin to fall down my cheeks, I use my left hand to wipe my eyes as I knock myself in the forehead with the heel of my right. I suppose I brought the pain on myself, I knew better than to feel something for another person.

I shouldn't have let Brenton in and I deserve the pain I'm feeling now. I wipe my eyes again, before I glance over to Cinna's drawing board where he keeps his sketches. I breathe in deep, before making my way over, where the sketches are spread out.

The sketches are undeniably of Brenton, and I curse softly, coming to the realization I may never be able to escape him. I reach out and trace the edges of pencil and marker with my fingers. I let out a hollow laugh to myself, knowing I would eventually fall for someone who would never love me back.

I slip my hand underneath a stack of sketches, picking them up. I flip through the different profile and advantages Cinna had drawn of him, as a few from the middle fall out. I let out a huff of air as I place the remaining papers on the desk to bend down and retrieve the others.

I fall to my knees, my body weak and empty, and proceed to collect the sketches. My eyes linger over each one before I extend my arm to place them back to their place. I scan the area for any others when I spot one underneath the desk. I sigh before ducking underneath, my fingers curling over the edges.

I'm about to back out when I notice a taped envelope above me at the bottom of the desk. I stare at it for a few seconds before laying the sketch down to pull the envelope free. I come free from the desk landing on my knees; I look around me before opening the envelope. I peer inside to what only appears to be papers, I assume they're more sketches; Cinna is a designer and stylist after all.

My curiosity gets the best of me, as I reach in and pull out the contents. I place them on the ground in front of me, and move each paper to the side to examine the next.

They aren't sketches or anything relating to designing clothing. Each page lists a council member, a time and a sequence of numbers. I assume it's a code before I begin to recognize the names as well as the dates. Every encounter I've had with a council member or high ranking Capitol citizen is looking back at me.

I feel sick and I clutch my stomach, he's been documenting everything for what seems to be years. But it's not until I examine each line that I begin to connect another set of numbers which I recognize as longitude and latitude. I recognize one coordinate to be of a supply base for the Capitol, that I know had been rated by a resistance party at the date listed.

Unlike most courtesans I keep my ears open for anything resistance related and when Capitol citizens become intoxicated, or even more so when they take advantage of you sexually, some feel obligated to divulge some information. Everything begins to become clear to me, and it almost feels surreal. The opening of the doors startles me, and I scramble to pick the papers up.

I look to my right to see Cinna staring at me blankly. He then begins to rush towards me; I jump up backing away from the papers. I'm ready for an assault when he bypasses me to pick the papers up from the floor.

He doesn't look at me, as he organizes the papers accordingly. He keeps his eyes from me as I back away again. I watch him closely before I begin to ask the obvious.

"You're a spy aren't you?"

He turns to me quickly, before he points up. Cinna reaches over to the back of his desk to push a button which gives a high pitch wail before he stands up looking to me.

"I had to make sure no one would hear us."

"Why would it matter?"

"Because some of us can't risk some people knowing certain things about us."

"So what you activated something making it impossible for anyone to hear or watch? Where do you get something like that?"

He smiled softly," A friend."

"Would this friend be the one you spy for?"

He reaches for me, "Daria-"

I back up from his grasp," All those dates are the ones when I was in the Capitol. What so you spied and gathered information while I was being raped and beaten?"

"I never wanted to put you in harm's way-"

I shake my head, as the tears flood out of my eyes," No,I get it. I was a means to an end, I was an available distraction."

"Daria no one can know about me."

"I won't tell anyone Cinna. I wouldn't have anything to gain from it."

He looks to be in deep thought before he speaks," Your father is coming for you."

My confusion is easy to see," What?"

"He's been working with the resistance for years. None of us really connected the two of you until recently. Snow had been so paranoid after Brenton arrived, he had all of the codes DNA sequencing put back through the readers," Cinna steps toward me," He's coming for you. Everyone is going to be get out soon."

"This is all to save Brenton isn't it?"

He tilts his head," I would of all people you would want him safe."

"I do, but he's not as concerned with me anymore," I can see the question in his eyes," He found out what I am tonight."

"Daria-"

I back up from him with my hands held up as I move toward the exit,"Tell my father not to bother coming for his daughter. You tell him I'm already gone."

I can hear Cinna trying to speak to me, as I close the doors behind me. I lean my head back against the closed doors before I walk back towards the barracks. Every step I take makes me feel farther away from who I had once been.

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