A/N- In this chapter, I mention technology that I know isn't possible as of today. I'm nt saying that it will be around at the point in time where this story takes place, but I thought it would be interesting if it ever is. Please try to be open-minded about this, but please do tell me if my description isn't well written.

Chapter 12

Rhea's point of view

"So they just... All closed up?" Rue's eyes widen as she repeats the information I just revealed. "Just like that?"

Nodding, I confirm. "Just like that. But here's the weird thing-"

Rue ducks her head, and I imitate the action, allowing my sentence to be cut off. The two of us, as well as a few other tributes who were considered strong enough to start a normal life here, are in a Panem history lecture. Since the majority of the country, with the obvious exception of Districts One, Two, and Four, the most of us are in the same level of classes. So far, they're going great, and despite being on the younger end- Rue is twelve, and I just turned fourteen- the two of us are already near the top of almost every class. Talking through one is something that we have never done before. But given what I saw last night, well, it's pretty necessary.

I drop my voice to a barely audible whisper. "After they injected the stuff, and the skin closed up, something weirder happened."

Rue looks around as if to make sure no one else can hear us before nodding at me to go on.

"The brain waves took on a new pattern," I get out at last. "I'm not sure what was made to be different, but still... When patterns changed that much, something changed. They seemed less complex somehow. I wouldn't be surprised if that was done on purpose."

"What do you think that would be for, anyway?" Rue purses her lips for a moment. "They're trying to get us in some sort of ideal physical condition, right? I mean, we were brought here to eventually fight against the Capitol, at least that's what Francesca said... Anyway, if that's the case, why would they take in ex-tributes? We're all so young, and most of us are weak."

I allow her to continue verbalizing her train of thought, though I can't focus. Once again, I'm lost in my own mind. One thing she said sticks in my mind. Ideal physical condition...

"Maybe that isn't the case." I pause for a minute, letting her finish her thoughts before I continue. "Maybe that isn't the case. What if they're trying to get us in the same mental condition? That would explain the brain waves. Everyone has been acting weirdly lately. Have you noticed?"

She nods slowly. "Mood, and stuff. Everyone seems a bit too calm, given the situation. But then, with the slightest provocation, we seem to lash out."

"I've noticed." I confirm.

"Rhea?" Rue looks at me, smiling a little. "I think we need to go get some answers."