Chapter 7
When training starts, we all rush for the weapons. It's kind of pathetic. A bunch of kids, hair dyed, too much make up, and mostly no muscle, trying to hold up a sword correctly or point an arrow. I'm definitely a sorry sight with a bow. Mercury, on the other hand, picks up on the bow like a pro. I try throwing spears, I meet Rom at that station, he is good, I throw like a three-year-old. It is the same with throwing knives. I don't even try the weights, where Balthazar Millea and Agatha Crane are dominating. I originally didn't want to try the sword, but there wasn't much else to try. I call for a training partner to spar with.
"Go easy on me," I say, as I level the sword I picked out from the bunch.
The trainer nods, and charges immediately. I block his swing awkwardly and back away. I take a deep breath and focus. He charges again, but this time, I'm ready. I block both of his blows with too much ease than I expect. I kick him in the stomach, as a natural reflex. He staggers backward, smiles and says, "Good."
I charge this time. I swing once, he blocks it. Then, I fake a swing to the right and hit him with the dull side of my sword on his shoulder. He falls off the platform we're standing on and into the plush below.
"Again," he says, getting up from the foam, "but this time, I'm not going easy on you."
By the end of the day, I know I'm going to use my sword. When we finish, I go to my room and take a shower. Being dirty for a long time irks me. I should probably get over that soon. Then I go to dinner. Both Mercury and I arrive at the same time.
After we've eaten most of our meal, Peeta asks, "So, How'd training go?"
"It went well," I say. "I think I'm pretty talented with a sword."
"Pretty talented?" Mercury asks. "She was awesome. Her training partner only beat her once."
I shrug and blush. "You did a good job with that bow."
"Eh, I missed a few," Mercury says.
"Yeah, like three."
"That's good, both of you found weapons to use." Peeta says. "Just remember to focus on survival skills tomorrow. I suggest learning how to make a fire, tie a knot, and finding out what berries are good and bad."
We both nod. The next morning, I'm awakened by Effie's clicking heals. I freshen up and change into the clothes laid out on my bed. I eat breakfast with Peeta and Mercury and report to the Training center. I catch Mercury at the fire making station and decide that it's about time to talk about solidifying an alliance.
"Hi," I say sitting at the other end of his attempt at a fire.
"Hey, what's up?" he asks as I grab some wood to start trying to make a fire.
"So, about alliances, are we one?"
He nods, "I hope so."
"Okay," I say, "should we have anyone else?"
"Did you have someone in mind?"
"Well, she won't help much, but I just feel obligated to protect-"
"Telly Templesmith?" he asks, smirking.
"Yeah, if that's okay," I say.
"Sure, we could take a freeloader," he says, in the most serious tone.
I glare at him.
"I'm kidding," he says, smiling now.
"Anyway, do you know anyone we could trust for most of the Game?"
"Hm…" he ponders, going through a list of people in his head. "Not really. Maybe we'll just pick someone up along the way, and if not, the less people we become attached to the better, right?"
It's kind of a twisted way of thinking, but it's the only way you won't end up killing yourself before the games end. (That thought was also twisted.) Then, as if she knew we were talking about her, Telly approached me.
"Hi," she says, barely a whisper.
"Hey, Telly," I say, trying to smile. "We were just talking about you."
Author's Note: Yay! we're getting closer to the games! Next chapter will be the private session with the Gamemakers then the next chapter will be the interviews and the night before the games. I'm excited! Are you? You are? Then review please!