I hissed as the needle pricked my finger. My blood was then placed on the paper before me. Then, I was pushed aside so that Emerald could receive the same treatment. I sighed and looked in front of me. The Square was crowded with children and teenagers, all excited and hoping to be reaped. I was among these people, yet I knew it wouldn't happen to me. I could never be that lucky.

I looked down at my dress, a lavender gown that stretched to my ankles. The waistline was curved slightly, as was the torso, causing loose ruffles. The bottom was sleek and thin, creating a simple and straight skirt pattern. My dark bangs were Dutch braided back into a ponytail, which I found elegant, yet simple. Emerald's hair was curled, as usual and just as beautiful as ever. Her dress was solid white, with sparkles and glitter along the skirt. She looked amazing… and everyone knew it.

I shook my head, focusing on something other than appearance- The Games. I wondered who the tributes would be, what the Arena would look like, and so on. I folded my arms and watched as the District 2 escort appeared before us.

Vienna Goldenburg had an annoying appearance. Her hair was cut short, similar to that of a boy's haircut, which wasn't really all that bad. The color bothered me. Her hair was dyed bright green, which seemed to match her lipstick and eye shadow.

"Happy Hunger Games." she began, causing an uproar of applause. Not only was the crowd chatty, but they were also excited… more so than usual.

"We're here to select one young man and woman to represent District 2 in the 74th Annual Hunger Games." she explained. "But first," she began gesturing toward the television screen. "I'd like to show the history and origin of the Games." she finished. The television screen then came on and began to play footage… the same footage from last year… and the year before that… and so on.

When I finally began to pay attention again, she had her hand in a large glass bowl- the one in which my name was entered four times. She began to make irritating hand-model poses before selecting a slip of paper. She cleared her throat into the microphone, demanding total attention.

"And the female tribute for District 2 is…" she began, creating a dramatic pause. She smiled before finishing with, "Emerald Night."

The crowd erupted with cheers and chants. My sister was extremely popular and everyone wanted this for her. I, on the other hand, was furious. Not only does she get all the attention and love from Father, but she gets the glory of being reaped. Even though I knew she'd be in the Games, it was worse after it actually happened. The worst part was the smirk she flashed me. My heart began to ache slightly. I honestly believed that I died inside a bit at that moment. The envy was more than I could bare. I had to do something. Anything to stop it!

Then, my opportunity arose. "Any volunteers?" Vienna asked.

My hand shot up in the air, possibly the quickest movement I had ever made. "I volunteer." I called. Suddenly, everyone was staring at me. I heard angry murmurs followed by gasps and scoffs. There was nothing they could do now.

I walked up to the stage, watching Emeralds scowl as it grew. She stared at me in angry shock. Just then, I flashed the same smirk she had shown me earlier, a perfect taunt.

"So, tell the people you're name." Vienna requested.

"My name is Clove Night." I said into the microphone. I received boos, but mostly silence. I didn't mind though. I just wanted to be here.

"Okay then. Now we select a boy." Vienna said. With less grace than before she reached into the bowl and pulled out a name. "Mica Clearwater." she called.

A small thirteen year old boy responded, chanting for himself more than anyone else.

"Any volunteers?"

A familiar hand was raised quickly. "I volunteer." called a voice. I knew that voice… I couldn't exactly put my finger on who it was though. Then, he began walking and was revealed before me… Cato Pierce. I knew I was doomed in that instant. I had seen him training before and instantly, I knew he was the favorite to win.

"And your name?" Vienna asked.

"Cato. Cato Pierce." he replied. The crowd cheered and whooped for him just as they did Emerald. If this many people liked him, odds are, sponsors would too. I was as good as dead, but I would never stop trying.

"Give it up for your District 2 tributes, Cato Pierce and Clove Night!" she cheered. The crowd applauded as requested and we were taken to say our good-byes. I was not looking forward to mine.