Phoenix Rise

Chapter 14: The Quarter Quells

Gale's POV

The next morning, I wake up warmer than ever before. I smile knowing where the heat was coming from as I wrapped my arm succoring Siobhan to my form. When I open my eyes, I saw my love resting her head on my chest, still asleep while her hand was on my heart and her lone leg tangle with mine. Last night was probably the best night of my life. To have a special moment with Siobhan and each giving something in return that only newlywed give. It started out strange for the both of us at first. When I carried her to her bedroom: including when removing artificial leg. But with tenderness, we got to personally know one another.

Siobhan stirs from her dream, that I started rubbing her back. She opens her green eyes and yawns before realization crossed her face that I couldn't help but chuckled. The chuckled caught her attention which she sat up quick exposing herself and bringing a pillow over to cover herself.

"Morning," I chuckled leaning up.

"Morning," she blushed closing her eyes. "It wasn't a dream?"

I sat up and kissed her on the lips. "Nope… do you regret it?"

Siobhan paused and thought about it. Her left hand went up to her lips then traced the trail were I kissed her stopping at the junction where neck and shoulder meet. The expression on her face showed a humble memory, the one she shows when thinking happy thought. Knowing the answer already, I sat up and place a hand over her. She looked at me as our hands entwined together and brought her into her hug, kissing her neck.

"No," Siobhan whispered. "I don't regret it."

She pulled back and kissed my cheek. "Though I'm a bit sore."

I nodded, letting her go take a bath while I got up and get dress for the day. I walked up to the desk when I spotted a small calendar with many 'X's' on it before noticing a few dots on today and a few more. I was confused until I hear Siobhan curse in the bathroom. She peak her head out of the door and looked at me embarrassed.

"Gale, can you go down stairs and grabbed some pads in the downstairs bathroom." She asked.

Realizing what she meant, I blushed as well. "Okay."

"Thanks," She chuckled nervously before going back in.

Well, at least we know she's not pregnant.

I sighed in relief going downstairs to fetch some pads for her, when I saw Mark in the kitchen having a cup of coffee while reading the newspaper. Oh crap, I hope he didn't hear anything. Mark didn't seem phase by my presences as I grabbed the things Siobhan needed and walked up stairs.

"Had fun?" Mark asked.

I gulped; there was no use in lying to Mark Underwood. I turned around to face him. "I love her."

Mark set his mug down. "I know just no more activity until after the game. We don't want another life killed unwilling."

I nodded what he meant and went upstairs back in Siobhan bedroom. I knock on the bathroom door, which her hand came out and grabbed the box of pads.

"Thanks," she said and closed the door. "Sorry about this."

"Don't be." I assured. Walking back to bed, to see a picture of us on the nightstand of us dancing at the banquet. I picked up the frame to see how happy we were in that one moment. To forget about the Capitol or the games, just us, "Don't be."

.o0o.

Two weeks later.

On the day of the reaping was the worst day in District 12 history along with the heat. Practically everyone came, sweating and silent, in the square with machine guns over their head. I looked across the stage to see Siobhan trying to hold herself as she cried knowing she was already qualified for the games. Madge stood next to her, being the mayor's daughter and rubbed her cousin back assuring her it was alright. I wish it was me comforting her but I was in another roped off area with Haymitch. Turns out there was another rule change to this year quelled? No, volunteering. So we knew who was going to be reaped if Snow rigged the poles.

The reaping was short as Effie digs her hand into the bowl for the male tribute. I could see she wished in catching Haymitch's name. Trying to cheat for us, however the odds were never in our favor this year. As she pulled out the slip and open it.

"Gale Hawthorne," Effie choked.

I hear my family screamed while others shouted their complaints. Except, they were ignored as Siobhan and I walked up and shook hands while the anthem played. However, I didn't want to shake hands, instead I brought her into a hug as she cried into chest. I tried to hold a strong face for us, when suddenly forced into the Justice Building. Instead of heading towards the crying room to say our goodbyes to our family Head Peacekeeper Thread stood center of the hall with a smile.

"New Procedure," he said with a smirk.

Before I could protested, we were ushered into the car and taken to the train station. The station was empty with no paparazzi as our Haymitch and Effie were escorted by guards. Being hurried in and shoved that the moment the door shut the trained took off. Siobhan and I ran up to the window, to see District 12 disappear, not able to say goodbye to our loved ones.

Mom, Vick, Rory, and Posy, unable to say goodbye and how much I loved them so and I are sorry. Katniss ad Prim as well, telling them to stay strong. All those words of advice and hollow promises tossed out the window. Siobhan hugged me, trying to loosen the tension.

"We'll write to them," She murmured. "Probably the best. Haymitch would deliver it to them."

I nodded and hugged her. I could see her shake in my arms for she desperately wanted to say goodbye to Mark, Katniss, Peeta, and Madge. For once those two finally got to be a family but no it was gone. Without thinking, we went into my room and lay in bed. We done nothing but comfort each other, as I hold her while the locket played the sweet melody. Soon we grabbed some paper and started writing our letters, writing goodbyes to our family. It was heart wrecking for both of us till I stop writing Posey letter. What can I write to my baby sister? Tell her that the world is a dark cruel place that there are mean people who wanted to hurt people?' A letter was shoved in my face from Siobhan as I read it was for Posey.

Dear sweet Posey

When you read this letter I'm afraid the worst has come between us. For we (Gale and Siobhan) aren't coming home to you with smiles and glory. The time has come to realized that the world is a dark place outside the home your family created in being happy and imagination. We are proud of you Posey, in being the sweet little angel that we know you are and hope you keep smiling hold a positive attitude no matter the situation. You'll understand someday that not all things are peaceful when the time has come. But know this; we love you and we tried to protect you from mean people. Though we may be gone, we are always there right beside you. Just placed your hand over your heart and think the good times we shared. How Gale gave you rides on his back or Siobhan and you doing princess tea party. Always stay in the good and never let those who oppress you win.

So be good for mommy and the others.

Love Gale and Siobhan.

P.S. We are with Daddy now.

I folded the letter and said thank you to Siobhan. She nodded, standing up to head back to her room and wash up for dinner. An hour later, Effie came to fetch us for dinner. Except, I felt numb unable to comprehend the world around me. So Siobhan took my hand and lead the way to the dining cart. Dinner was quiet while Siobhan and Effie occasionally try to hold a conversation.

"Like the new color of your hair, Effie," Siobhan said.

"Thank you. I had it especially done to match Gale's pin. I was thinking we might get you a golden ankle band and maybe find Haymitch a golden bracelet or something so we could all look like a team," Effie said.

"That's a great idea," Siobhan agreed touching her medallion. "But I already have a token. Though Haymitch, what do you think?"

"Yeah, whatever," Was all Haymitch could say. He wasn't drinking but he wanted to be. Our plan was compromised in saving Siobhan from the game. Back to the beginning in who to save which one; me or Siobhan. Truly I wanted him to choose Siobhan, no reconsideration unless….

"Shall we watch the recap of the reaping?" Effie suggested, cleaning herself up with a napkin.

.o0o.

Siobhan POV

I went to fetch my notebook and met the gang at the entertainment compartment where a television was. Since the history of the games, there has been on seventy-five victors. Only Fifty-nine remained. Some I recognized from previous games or mentoring tributes. By their age and appearances, half were old wasted from illness or addictions. However, that didn't stop a very large pool of victors in the Career district of 1, 2, and 4 unlike the rest of us underdogs who manage to at least have two victors of the opposite sex. I wonder if there wasn't a female victor in a district and this quell was called would they had to cancel it…or reaped a girl to play?

Anyway, the reaping goes by fast, as I put stars on the tributes that were selected. Haymitch had a hard time watching the reaping, as his friend Chaff was reaped while Effie made some commentary. After an hour I got the information needed.

District 1 victors were Gloss and Cashmere siblings who won consecutive years. Next District 2 ,was Brutus who proudly got reaped while in his forty excited to go back to the arena. Followed by Enobaria as his district partner. District 3 seemed like a challenge for they were Beetee and Wiress. Haymitch mention that they won by electrocuting people. District 4 tributes were Finnick Odair who won ten years ago while the oldest remaining victor Mags joined in. Although a young woman around Finnick age cried hysterically begging them not to go. District 5 and 6 were near middle age also Morphling. District 7 tributes were Johanna Mason only remaining female victor who won by pretending to be vulnerable while her partner was Blight. I felt sorry for District 8 though, the female victor who Effie called out Cecelia stood their trying to detach her three children. The same went this District 9 and 10 till district 11 came up with Chaff and Seeder. This was going to be hard for all of us, since they were Thresh and Rue's mentors and gave us bread.

Soon it was our districts reaping; I was called followed by Gale. The announcer gets teary saying the odds will never be in our favor, the star-crossed lovers of District 12. Then she pulls herself together and said, "These will be the best Games ever!"

Afterwards, Haymitch left the compartment without a word and Effie bid us goodnight. It was just Gale and me as I fiddle through notes until telling Gale go get some rest. He asked me if I would come, but I told him I got a few things to work on. He sighed disappointedly but understands. There probably won't be a female cult with the female Career this year, so I have to do what I can on information's. So kissing him goodnight, I grabbed a DVD and placed Finnick Game fast forwarding to his battle scene's noting his skill are based on Gladiator approach. Afterwards, Johanna in her merciless battle followed by: Gloss, Cashmere and Brutus. I grabbed the next DVD only to stop.

Second Quarter Quells.

This was Haymitch's game as well as Maysilee Donner. The game where Madge's aunt and my second cousin died in! People tell me I looked like her except for the eyes followed by battle tactics of Blowgun…but I never seen her face. Mom never had a picture of her side of the family after she married my father. Curious, I looked behind me to see if there was anyone still up. Only a Capitol attendant who walked in to see if there was anything he could do.

"Can I get you anything Miss?" He asked.

"Warm milk please," I asked kindly.

The Attendant nodded and left so he could get me some milk. It was sad on both parts of the playing field. Just seeing his face say's that the citizens from the Capitol don't like the theme of the quells. I sighed and stared at the DVD. Should I watch this or not?

I hear the door open then shut when two arms wrapped around me in a hug. Knowing it was Gale; I sighed and leaned back, "Bad dream?"

"Yeah," he whispered as he climbed over the couch and sat next to me. By the tone of his voice, I knew he didn't want to talk about it. We sat there watching the announcement of the second quell when president snow was younger when the attendant returned with warm milk. He set it the tray on the table with two cups of steaming milk.

"I brought an extra cup," he said.

"Thanks," Gale said.

"And I added a touch of honey to the milk. For sweetness. And just a pinch of spice," he added. With that said he left with unfinished words.

"What up with him?" Gale asked.

"… He feels bad for us?" I said.

"Uh huh?" Gale breathed taking a sip of his own cup.

"It's true. The people from the Capitol aren't happy about the games? They get attached to us victors." I explained.

Gale scoffed, "Yeah, until blood spilled. So what are we watching?"

"…. I want to see my cousin." I said pressing play. "The game Haymitch played in."

"Are you sure?" Gale asked concerned.

"It's the only Quell, better get a taste of it." I said sitting back down with a cup of milk in hand. We fast forward from the announcement to the reaping stopping at District 12. This was the Quell where the numbers of tributes were double for a life of a life. A woman who wasn't Effie started the reaping with "Ladies first!" The first Girl was from the Seam's and then next "Maysilee Donner."

I stared at her to see the similarities she and I had. Blond hair, fair skin, oval face, high cheekbones, and straight nose. She was sixteen when she was reaped while three other girls cringed to her so dearly. All blonde with blue eyes, merchant children. The girl who looked exactly like Maysilee had to be Madge's mom, the second Katniss mom, Mrs. Everdeen and finally the third…

"That's my mom," I whispered. Seeing the woman who bear me so many years ago only she was seventeen when this happen. Her blue eyes becoming teary while holding her cousin from behind.

"You look like her," Gale noted rubbing my back.

"People say I looked like Maysilee." I replied.

"Well, they were cousins," Gale assured.

Maysilee Donner hugged her friends and family before untangling herself from them. Holding her head held high as she walked to the stage shaking the other female tribute hand. I wonder how she could stay strong while people wept for her; especially her sister who became ill afterwards from continues migraines? Soon Haymitch's name came up last of the reaping. I couldn't but find his younger self attractive. I mean come on, young, strong, and hell of a looker. He sort of reminded me of Gale if it weren't for the hair of course.

The Chariot Ride come next- as the District 12 kids were dressed like coal miners. Afterwards it was the interviews. There was hardly any time for the others except for Haymitch and Maysilee in the interview. As Maysilee came up in a black lace dress shaking Caesar hand and talked. They talked about home and how she truly didn't want to kill anybody.

"She sure reminds me of someone," Gale whispered in my ear. I rolled my eyes and smacked him in the shoulder.

"So, Haymitch, What do you think of the Games having one hundred percent more competitors than usual?" Caesar asked Haymitch.

Haymitch just shrugged. "I don't see much of differences. They'll be one hundred percent stupid as usual, so I figured my odds will be roughly the same."

The audiences laughed at Haymitch answered as the brat gave a half smile. He was still the same then he was twenty-five years ago. A big fat jerk that was also arrogant. Indifferent. And snarky.

"Guess who he reminds me off?" I asked to Gale.

Gale rolled his eyes fast-forwarding the footage so we get to the Cornucopia. The arena was different compared to our generation version. For instead of a forest, ruin city, winter waste land, or desert. The tributes found themselves in a dreamland meadow. However, what's so beautiful doesn't turn out what they seemed. Guess the Gamemakers were having a field day on genetically altering the plants and animals of golden carnivorous squirrels who tried to scratch Haymitch faces, Poisonous fruits and water. Practically all edible sources were in the Cornucopia or from the rain. The bloodbath was horrendous as eighteen were killed and Haymitch got away from his motto. Run and stay alive. Head for the woods with a knife in hand. Maysilee seemed to have the same goal I had in the games grabbing the closes packs and run. Inside the pack she found herself with a blowgun, being resourceful by using the poison fruit as an added bon…

"Oh my god!" I gasped. "Zeek was talking about her!"

Gale just nodded as we watch day four of the games when the mountain erupted into a volcano killing a dozen tributes. This only left thirteen tributes remain who took refuge in the forest. Meanwhile two tributes were out in the open field.

A young girl crying over her district partner corps who got stabbed in the side, already dead. She tried CPR, pounding her hands into his chest begging to not leave her. How he promised to take her home, bring her home. However, he was dead in which she sobbed into his chest, covering herself in blood. That was until she heard a twig snapped. The girl looked up to see the female tribute from district one charging in with an ax. The girl took a deep breath, sitting up, and closed her eyes while the Career ran forward swinging her ax…and decapitated the youngest tribute. I gasped in horror, surprised how brutal the Careers were back then compare to Marvel, Cato, Clove, and Glimmer last year.

Haymitch seemed focused on continuing forward until he encounter three careers. He was able to kill off two however the third was about to slip his throat when a dart puncture his neck.

It was Maysilee Donner as she came out of her hiding spot. "We'd live longer with the two of us."

"Guess you just proved that," Haymitch said rubbing his broken nose. "Allies?"

Maysilee nodded as the grabbed the Careers supplies and headed onwards. They were just like Gale and me, they do bettered together. Taking shifts on rest, salvage rainwater, come up with plans, and share supplies. That was until Maysilee leaned against a tree tired of Haymitch determination on continues hike.

"Why?" Maysilee asked only to be ignored till tossing a rock at him.

"Because it has to end somewhere, Right?" Haymitch said walking back to her and looking her straight in the eyes. "The arena can't go on forever."

"What do you expect to find?" Maysilee asked.

"I don't know. But maybe there's something we can use," He said which got her to start moving again. Except…they ended up at a dead end. Stopping at a ledge with a hundred foot dropped.

"That's all there is, Haymitch." Maysilee sighed in defeat adjusting her blowgun strapped. "Let's go back."

"No, I'm staying here," he said in thought.

"All right. There are only five of us left. May as well say good-bye now, anyway," She said looking at his back while taking a step backwards. She had the opportunity to kill him however, she didn't. "I don't want it to come down to you and me."

"Okay," he agreed.

And so Maysilee walks away, not turning her back as she walked towards the battle field. Haymitch on the other hand became furious, trying to find a way out until he kicked a rock into the abyss. A second later the rock bounces back. This surprised him for a second before he grabbed another rock and tossed it out. The result was the same, as it bounced back. He caught it and laughed. Guess he found something he was looking for. Until he heard Maysilee screamed. My heart dropped knowing this was her death, to suspect district one girl killing her.

But it wasn't District one girl who killed Maysilee Donner. No, a flock of candy pink birds attack her skewering her next, slicing the jugular. I gasped in horror. That how she died, by mutation not from a tribute? So all this time what Haymitch and my family told me and Madge was a lie. That the Gamemakers killed Maysilee. Gale wrapped an arm around me as we watch Haymitch hold Maysilee hand as she died until canon fired. Past was rewritten from Maysilee death as it brought back memories in how Rue die, too late to save her.

When it came to the final two between District One and Haymitch the battle became brutal. As she stabbed him in the gut with her ax, creating a deep laceration that the intestines were coming out. Though, Haymitch was able to stab her in the eyes. He ran towards the cliffs and reached the edge the moment she throws the death blow. Haymitch stared at her neutral as leaned to the side dodging the ax. They stared at each other for a moment, till she stepped forward ready to kill him with her hand till a zap was heard. Haymitch sighed bowing down as the ax flies back and lodges into her head. Ending the footage with a cannon blow.

Gale grabbed the remote and pause the movie. "So he used the force field…cool. Didn't think Haymitch would consider it as a weapon… hey you okay?"

"No, it's because of that stunt many people were killed." I said hugging myself. "Also, how Maysilee died. My mom told me she died from District 1."

"Sio…" Gale stopped unable what to say.

"Also he used it not against the tributes but the Capitol as well. The Capitol didn't suspect that to happen in the arena. It made them look stupid and just like we challenged them on their word. There are consequences in this game and I know what happen to Haymitch afterwards," I snapped standing up to face him. He looked at me confused who thinks of what Haymitch was now today instead the twenty-five years on morning. "They. Killed. His. Family. We need to be careful, otherwise it would happen again."

"She's right," Haymitch said from behind us. Gale turned around to face us him inspecting to be angry in watching the tape. However, we saw our mentor just smirk holding a bottle of wine. Uncle Mark would be furious for the work in sobering Haymitch, now it's out the window.

We all knew the truth about each other. Gale, Haymitch and I. From all the training these past few months and learning about our competitors. The odds are unknown to our favor, for the Quells Arena was no simple amusement. It was a sadistic battle field that you have to watch your back not from the tributes. But from the arena itself.

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Hey guys, thanks for reading chapter fourteen. So far we are close to the games and you still have a chance to vote for Siobhan dressed. You can find the dress on my profile and look it up. So far Dress #4 is in the lead by three votes. So hurry up!

Thanks for reading and please leave a review.

Silent wolf singer.