The Games We Played
Welcome back lovely readers. To those who've been with since the beginning to those who have just followed my story, I just want to say thank you. To those that review, I appreciate your words – whether it's to critique or encourage. Just knowing someone is reading encourages me to continue.
Sorry this took so long for me to post. I had two family birthdays this week, my sister and my husband. I took my husband out to dinner and a movie – Hansel & Gretel – Witch Hunters. Then we did a family dinner tonight at Applebee's. Couldn't pass up half price appetizers and drinks. Then my sister-in-law went to the hospital with stroke like symptoms but ended up being downgraded to a severe migraine. Can't wait to see what this week brings…
lincolnlog89: The whole 'Cato is missing' did what it was expected to do, lol. Had a lot of fun with the shower scene ;). As for them playing Duck, Duck, Goose – wanted to lighten the mood a little, bring in the younger family members of our ex-tributes. Yeah, Coin - Blah. Leonitus will be back – in the flesh soon so to speak.
yuntani: Johanna almost ended up on the chopping block, but I just couldn't do it. I felt bad killing off Annie since there is an infant involved, but there is a reason. I had fun trying to figure out the propo outfits. Then I pulled my husband's motorcycle jacket out from the back of out closet and inspiration hit. I'm happy the shower scene was liked. And thank you.
MangoMagic: I had a very nerve-wracking time writing the fight Peeta and Cato. I was very happy with what I posted in the end. Posy is one of my favorite characters to write for.
Chapter 17: Nightmares and Family Meetings
He awakens in room with a dim light coming from the bare bulb above him. He looks around; there is no one in the room with him. He hears sounds coming from the other side of the door. Or maybe from somewhere beyond the door.
He slowly tries to sit up, checking for any injuries. He finds no obvious ones, although his muscles feel a little weak. He tries to stand up but ends up on his knees. He slowly crawls over to the door to listen. He can hear voices, female ones, familiar ones. One sounds like Annie. She's crying softly for Finnick in a sad, broken way. The next voice sounds like Johanna. She's begging someone to keep the water away from her. The third voice is familiar to him as well. It sounds a lot like Enobaria. She's telling someone that she has no idea who took Finnick, Beetee, and Katniss from the arena or where they could've gone. It's a strange thing to be saying as Finnick and Beetee were never in the arena as far as he could remember. Neither was Johanna, Annie, or Enobaria for that matter.
He crawls back to the cot he was on when he awoke. He's really confused now. He's fairly certain there were no mentors in the arena with him, but he can't remember any of it. It's beginning to give him a headache, trying to remember the arena and who was there with him.
As he gets back on the cot to lie back down, he hears footsteps walking in the hall outside his door. He hears a voice saying that they need to get the boy, that President Snow has plans for him. Does the voice mean him? What could Snow have planned for him? The footsteps stop outside his door and he can hear keys being rattled. He hears a key being put into the lock. He watches as the doorknob turns and the door is thrown open. He watches as four figures dressed in peacekeeper uniforms walk in. As they walk over to him, he thinks he recognizes one of them. It looks like Leonitus. Surely he'll help him, tell him what's going to happen.
"On your feet boy!" one of the other peacekeepers says. "President Snow wants to show you something."
When he doesn't get up fast enough, two of the men pull him up. They grab his arms when they realize his legs are about to give out, unable to support his weight. He looks at Leonitus, hoping for him to do something, say anything to give him an idea of what's going to happen.
Leonitus doesn't say anything; he just leads the way to the door. The two peacekeepers holding him drag him along behind Leonitus. The fourth peacekeeper follows behind them all. They walk down a long hallway, passing several doors. He wonders who or what are behind them. He's led to the last door at the very end of the hallway. The door opens and the go in.
It's a fairly large room. There's a couple chains connected to the ceiling with handcuffs attached to them with more on the ground just under the ones hanging. A drain hole is there as well and a hose attached to the wall a couple feet away. There's also something hidden underneath a sheet nearby the chains. He doesn't even want to know what's under the sheet. He sees a stretcher with straps on it next to a chair that is bolted to the ground. On the chair are also restraints. He's led to the chair and strapped in by his ankles and wrists. He begins to get a really bad feeling about this room. As his head is strapped, he notices a TV screen in front of him. The four peacekeepers, including Leonitus, go stand against the wall on the other side of the stretcher. Moments later, President Snow walks in.
"Hello my boy!" he says in a sickly sweet voice. "Glad you could join me. There's a video I want you to see." The smell coming from the president – blood and roses – makes him want to puke.
He sees the President turn on the TV and watches as images of bombs going off, destroying what looks like a village. It could be one of the districts but he can't be sure. As he watches, he feels like he should recognize this place but doesn't. Then something catches his eye in the video, a blonde figure running from the bombs. He stares at the figure, knowing he recognizes it but can't place who it is or why he knows them. He searches his memory but comes up empty, only increasing his headache. He forgets everything as he watches the blonde fly through the air, flames licking the backside of the person. A scream escapes his lips, "NO!"
The video stops, Snow shuts off the TV, and comes to stand in front of him, "Now, you see what the people who took Finnick, Beetee, and Katniss did. I want to know where they were taken."
He hears himself say, "I don't know sir. I don't even remember being in the arena with any of them. Well, except maybe for Katniss. And I know there were others there too. I just can't remember. I'm certain that I don't remember Finnick or Beetee being there."
Snow looks at him, anger glowing in his eyes scaring him. "Listen here young man, you WILL tell me what I want to know. Even if I have to beat the shit out of you!" he spits as he motions the peacekeepers forward. Snow steps back as Leonitus steps up in front of him. He tries pleading with Leonitus using his eyes. Leonitus just smirks. He hears Snow speak again.
"I'm going to ask you one last time and I don't want to hear any excuses," Snow says from his new position. "Who took them and where did they go?"
"I don't know!" he exclaims. "How could I if I'm here with you?"
Snow shakes his head sadly. "You were warned," he says before heading to the door. He turns to Leonitus, "No facial damage please. He has an 'interview' with Caesar Flickerman later this week."
"Yes sir," Leonitus responds as Snow exits the room. He turns back to face the boy in the chair. "This is going to be so much fun," he says as his fist flies towards the boy's stomach, knocking the wind out of him.
The beating lasted for what seemed like forever. Each of the peacekeepers taking a turn. The boy learns that the most vicious of them was called Romulus Thread. The only thing that kept the boy sane was thinking of the familiar looking blonde figure in the video. He can't think of the name, but knows he's important to him somehow. He feels the need to keep that figure safe.
He's soon dragged back to his room and thrown on the cot, a groan escaping his lips. Leonitus walks up to the cot where the boy has laid down on his back. He squats down and says, "Sorry about earlier Sweetheart. It breaks my heart to see you in this condition." Leonitus then leans forward to place a chaste kiss upon his lips. "I'll see you again soon Lover," he says as he stands. Soon he's out the door and the boy can hear it being locked.
He lies there trying not to move because of the pain. He can hear Johanna screaming and realizes that when she screams, the light flickers above him. When the screams stop, Annie's ramblings begin fluctuations in volume. He tries to sleep but it's almost like someone knows that and do what they can to keep him awake. It gets so bad; he realizes he can't even remember his own name! Even worse, he can't get the feeling of Leonitus' lips off his own.
His days in the cell begin to blend together. He did the interview with Caesar but refused to answer any questions, which got him more beatings. And they cut back on his food. He can see he's losing weight. He's all but given up. The only thing that keeps him going is the boy with blonde hair and blue eyes he dreamt about one night. He knows the boy, knows he has feelings for the boy.
The peacekeepers come again to torture him yet again. This time things seem different. Leonitus is usually the leader and Thread brings up the rear. Today is different, the two men switch places. As he walks, he realizes why. Leonitus keeps grabbing his ass, sometimes pinching it hard. It makes him feel dirty.
There's something different about the room today. The chair has been moved and the stretcher is in front of it. As he's being strapped in, he realizes the stretcher is at eye level with him. It's then that he sees the screen partition. He can see there's a figure behind it.
Thread and Leonitus go behind the screen and bring the figure out. It's a male, wearing only a pair of boxers and a hood. There are bruises up and down his body, matching the ones the boy in the chair has. The boy is placed on the stretcher and is strapped down. Before the head is strapped, Thread pulls the hood off with a threat, "You speak, and we will remove your tongue." The boy on the bed nods before having his head turned towards the boy in the chair.
The boy in the chair gasps. It's the blonde haired blue eyed boy from his dream. The boy on the cot gasps as well. While the two boys look at each other, there is a commotion outside the door. The door opens to reveal President Snow and Seneca Crane. They can't see him as their heads were strapped to face the other.
"As you can see Seneca, I'm attempting to try a new method of getting the two of them to talk," the two boys hear Snow say. "Leonitus, my good boy, get Seneca a chair. He's going to join us for this event."
"Yes sir Mr. President," Leonitus says as he rushes out of the room. He returns quickly with the chair before heading to his spot with the other peacekeepers.
Once Seneca is seated, President Snow takes his seat and explains what's going to happen. "Since neither boy wants to confess where the others were taken when asked separately, I have decided that one will be punished while the other is punished."
"How do you know they'll tell the truth sir?" Seneca asks.
"Simple, the boys love each other. They don't want to see the other hurting," the President replies.
"What form of punishment are you using sir?" Seneca asks excitement in his voice.
"Leonitus, show Seneca the knife," Snow orders.
Leonitus grabs the knife from the table next to the stretcher and brings it over to Seneca.
"That looks very sharp. It should cut the skin easily," Seneca remarks.
"Indeed," says Snow. "Shall we begin?" Seneca nods his head. Snow motions for Leonitus to take his position next to the stretcher.
The boy in the chair barely heard the conversation between the two men after he heard the President call the beautiful boy on the stretcher his love. He could see the two of them together and believes what he's heard. The problem was he couldn't even remember the boy's name. Great boyfriend he is.
"Not going to answer the question, huh?" he hears Snow say. "Leonitus, you may begin."
The boy in the chair watches as Leonitus brings the blade across the upper thigh of the other boy. The boy screams in pain but doesn't say anything to any of them. The boy in the chair watches the tears fall down the other boy's face. He finds his voice, "Stop! I don't know anything! And apparently neither does he. Why are you doing this?" he screams.
"That's four more Leonitus." Snow says before responding "We know that you were teamed up with Katniss, Finnick, and Beetee. Johanna was also a part of your group. It's too bad she didn't stab Katniss in the heart. Instead, she just removed the tracker in her arm. Pathetic little Victor that she is."
The boy in the chair watches as four more slices are made on the other boy's legs. What the two of them realize almost simultaneously is that Leonitus is cutting a little too deep. The boy on the stretcher was expecting to die; he's been expecting it for a while now. How the boy in the chair knows this, he isn't sure. He just knows.
With each cut being made, the boy on the stretcher screams. This causes the boy in the chair to pull against his restraints, trying to stop the injuries being inflicted. The boy in the chair speaks again, "Please stop! We don't know anything. We just don't know," he cries, tears pouring down his cheeks as he watches the other boy grow more and more pale.
"Three more Leonitus," Snow says.
"I'm so sorry," the boy in the chair tells the other boy. The boy on the stretcher smiles a knowing smile.
"Make that a total of four Leonitus," Snow says waiting to see if more will be added.
The boy in the chair watches as Leonitus cuts across the abdomen four times. Each cut a little too deep. The boy on the stretcher screams with each slice. The boy in the chair cries. The two boys stare at each other. The boy on the stretcher mouths 'I love you'. The boy in the chair mouths it back. Soon the boy on the stretcher closes his eyes. There are so many cuts marring his skin now, the boy in the chair is surprised the other boy has lasted as long as he has. The boy in the chair watches as the other boy stops breathing. He waits, hoping to see the other boy's chest rise again but it doesn't.
The boy in the chair screams. He screams the name of the boy on the stretcher –
"PEETA!"
Peeta jumps awake when he hears Cato call out his name. He sits up and turns towards Cato, curious as to why the older boy yelled his name. Instead, he can hear him talking in his sleep. Some of the things he says confuses the younger boy.
"I told you, I don't know who took Finnick, Beetee, and Katniss!"
"It's not my fault! He cut him too deep."
"I'm so sorry Peeta."
"Can't I have just a moment with him?"
"I love you Peeta. I always will."
"Don't worry my love; I will avenge your death."
When Peeta sees the tears flowing down Cato's face he moves to wake Cato up. He shakes the older boy gently, "Cato, baby, wake up."
Cato sits up quickly, not sure where he is.
Peeta, not wanting to freak out Cato any more than he already is, talks softly to him. "Cato honey, you're okay. It was just a nightmare. Only a nightmare."
Cato's head whips around to face Peeta, startling the younger boy. With eyes wide and unsure, Cato hesitantly reaches up with his right hand and touches Peeta's face.
Peeta smiles as he leans into Cato's touch, loving how gentle the touch is.
"I watched you die," Cato says shakily. "I watched as you bled to death." He runs his hands over Peeta's face, shoulders.
"It was just a dream love. A very bad one from the way you screamed my name," Peeta tells him looking deep into the other boy's icy blue eyes. "Haven't you ever had a nightmare before?"
"Not since I was little," Cato admits. "And never anything like that. It felt like it went on for days." He looks over at the clock and sees it's a little after 2 in the morning.
"Would you like to talk about it?" Peeta asks gently.
"Not really," Cato says. "I'd really rather just hold you. Is that okay?"
"That is doable," Peeta says smiling. They both lay down. Cato's on his back and Peeta snuggled up against his side, his head on Cato's shoulder, arm draped across Cato's waist, and his leg over Cato's legs.
Cato wraps his arms around Peeta, pulling him as close as he can, "It was bad Peeta. I was being held by Snow. Johanna and Annie were there as well. He, he had me beaten and tortured by Leonitus. I couldn't even remember my name. Snow kept asking me where Katniss, Beetee, and Finnick were and who took them. I had no idea. Then you were brought in with me. Leonitus kept cutting you, several were deep. One was so deep that we both knew you were going to die. You told me you loved me before you died." Cato's voice breaking on the last sentence.
Peeta tilts his head to look up at Cato. He sees tears welling in the older boy's eyes. He adjusts his body so that he is half lying on Cato, leaning on his elbow to get a better look at his boyfriend's face.
"Cato, I know how you're feeling. I've had a few of those nightmares myself. Hell, I lived a real-life scare of you dying our first day in the arena," he says staring into Cato's eyes. "To me, that was more scary than any nightmare. And we weren't even a couple yet, though I had wished we were," Peeta admits shyly.
"Gale told me to be patient the night we fought. To give you time and let you come to me. It was so very hard. When I saw you on the platform, I wanted to swim over to you." Cato admits freely. "It wasn't until I saw you again on the beach by the cornucopia that I knew I never wanted to let you go."
"I was so happy when you opened your beautiful eyes after being thrown," Peeta smiles. "That is one of my favorite memories." He can see that remembering their happier times is helping Cato. "I'm thinking that whenever one of us has a nightmare, we should remind each other of one of our favorite happy memories."
Cato pulls Peeta so that he's lying completely on top of him, their naked bodies pressing together, "And then we can do this," he whispers huskily before pulling Peeta's face closer and kissing him.
The kiss deepens quickly and hips begin to grind together. Cato growls deeply and Peeta thinks it's the sexiest thing he's ever heard. Until Cato pulls away, looking up into his lust filled eyes.
"Peeta, I want you to make love to me. I want to feel you inside of me," Cato tells Peeta serious.
Peeta is stunned. It takes him a moment to speak. When he does, it's to ask, "Are you sure?"
"More than you'll ever know," Cato replies running his hands over Peeta's bare back.
"One more question," Peeta says. "Have you ever done that before? Been on the receiving end?" he asks, remembering his first time.
Cato sees Peeta's blush and finds it endearing. "No, but I know that I want to and I want it to be you." He takes Peeta's hand and places three fingers in his mouth, sucking them sensually causing Peeta to gasp.
Between the feeling of his fingers in Cato's mouth and the thought of being Cato's first makes Peeta harder than he's ever been. Once his fingers are good and wet, he slowly pulls them from Cato's mouth and gives him a quick kiss before moving down the older boy's body.
Cato puts his feet flat on the bed, knees bent, legs spread wide as he watches Peeta.
Peeta takes Cato's hard cock into his mouth as he places a finger at Cato's opening. Flicking his tongue over the sensitive spot just below the head, he gently pushes his finger in to the first knuckle. He hears Cato grunt and tighten around his finger. "Cato, baby, you need to relax," he says before wrapping his lips back around Cato's cock. As he slowly bobs his head, he also slowly pushes his finger in farther.
Cato listens to Peeta and before he knows it, he can feel more than one finger inside him, brushing against his spot causing a more intense feeling of pleasure. He wants more.
"Peeta, please, I want you now," he pants when he feels the younger boy brush against that spot again.
Peeta gently pulls his fingers out before using his own spit to slick himself and placing himself at Cato's entrance. He slides the head of his cock in and pauses a moment letting Cato adjust. He slowly pushes in, pausing only when he notices Cato flinch in pain, letting him adjust to the new feeling.
Soon, the two boys are moving in a slow rhythm, each reveling in the new experience.
Cato looks up at Peeta and begs, "Peeta, faster, harder, now, please!"
Peeta complies and begins to move his hips faster and pushing in harder. The increased speed and harder thrusts causes Peeta to consistently hit Cato's spot, eliciting loud moans from both boys.
"Oh shit, Peeta, I'm gonna…." Cato gets out, back arched, before his neck, chest, and abdomen are covered with his own cum.
The feeling of Cato's walls gripping his cock sends Peeta over the edge and he releases his own load while calling out Cato's name. Peeta slowly lays himself down on Cato, trying to catch his breath.
"Wow," Cato says in awe.
"I agree," Peeta says smiling as he slowly pulls out from Cato and slides to Cato's side. "Are you okay? Was that good?" he asks nervously as he gets comfortable.
Cato lifts Peeta's chin to look him in the eye, "I think it was great, why are you asking?" he knows something was different for Peeta but no certain what.
Peeta shifts his eyes from seeing Cato's and shyly replies, "That was the first time I have ever been on the giving side."
Cato leans down to kiss Peeta's head and says honestly, "I never would have guessed."
A few minutes later, and before they both fell asleep, Cato suggests taking a shower and sleeping in the other bed. It was 20 minutes later when both boys were snuggled together, asleep in the other bed.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XX
Following breakfast the next morning, Peeta and Cato joined the others for Coin's meeting. They were both a little tired from the activities, and nightmare, from the night before. Whenever they would look in the eyes of the other, they would share a knowing smile.
Coin walks in and gets right to it, "Good morning soldiers. Today you will go down and be tested on the firing range. From there, you will be divided into two groups. The first group will be the sniper squad and the other group will be the ground squad. Is this understood?"
"Yes, ma'am," they reply.
"Good. Now Soldier Canelos, after lunch today you are to join your father and begin helping with the beginner hand-to-hand combat training." Coin says looking at him.
"Yes ma'am," Cato replies.
"Soldiers Everdeen, Hawthorne, and Peeta Mellark, you will be meeting with Jackson after lunch. She will set you up with your weapons and tracking devices. You will have two hours. Understood?" she asks.
"Yes ma'am," they reply.
"The rest of you will follow your schedules and go to your appropriate classes. Are we all clear?"
"Yes ma'am," they all reply.
"Very well. You are all dismissed. Boggs is waiting for you." She says before going out the door.
Boggs leads the large group down to the firing range. But before they begin, he shows them the weapons they will be able to choose from. There are 3 hand guns and 2 rifles.
Boggs picks up one of the hand guns, "This is a Ruger P89. It holds 15 rounds of 9mm ammo in the magazine."
He sets down the Ruger and picks up the next gun, "This is a Sig Sauer P250 full size pistol. It holds 10 rounds of 9mm ammo in the magazine."
He sets down the Sig and picks up the final pistol. "This is a Glock 37. It holds 10 rounds of .45 ammo in the magazine."
He puts the Glock down and steps over to the 2 rifles. He picks up one of them, "This is an AR-15 automatic rifle. The magazine holds 30 rounds of .223 ammo."
Boggs put it down and grabs the other rifle, "This is a Sig Sauer Tactical rifle M400. It also holds 30 rounds of .223 ammo in its magazine."
He sets down the rifle and turns to the group that is gathered, "I'm going to put you in groups of 3. Each group will take a turn and shoot at the targets. Once everyone has gone, you may relax until lunch."
The first group consists of Katniss, Marvel, and Tavin. When they sit down, Clove, Gale, and Johanna take their turn. They're followed by Cato, Delly, and Peeta. When they finish, Madge, Rie, and Wheet go up. The final group to go consists of Enobaria, Finnick, and Haymitch.
"Okay soldiers, I'm going to go study these targets. I'll find you later in the dining hall to let you know who is in the sniper squad." Boggs tells them before waving them off.
Enobaria, Finnick, Johanna, and Haymitch decide to go visit Brutus. "Dr. Aurelius managed to save the leg, but just barely. Brutus will forever have a limp." Haymitch tells the group before he leaves with the other mentors.
"So, what do we do for the next hour or two?" asks Tavin. Ever since he decided to join the rebellion, he has been hanging out more with his brother Marvel and the other surviving tributes. He liked being part of the group.
"Why don't we go down and visit Foxface and Beetee?" suggests Rie, his cheeks turning pink when he sees the questioning look from Peeta. Luckily for Rie, no one else notices.
They head down the hallway to find the special weapons room. They cautiously make their way inside.
Foxface hears the door open and sees her friends walk in. She kind of misses being around them, especially those she spent so much time with in the arena. She leaves the office and rushes over to the group, "Hey guys, how'd it go at the firing range? Do you know who's on what squad?"
"It was really cool," Clove enthuses. "My favorite was the AK-15 rifle."
"I prefer the handguns myself," Delly inputs. "If I had to choose that is."
The others tell their favorite weapon of choice.
"So, it sounds like you don't know who made what squad yet. When will you find out?" Foxface asks.
"Boggs is going to tell us at lunch," Gale says as he checks out the room they were in.
"Ah, tributes, you made it!" Beetee exclaims as he sees them. "I'm sorry; you're no longer tributes but soldiers. Anyway, I'm glad you all came. I can now show you your specialty weapons." He gets ready to lead them to the weapons when he realizes something, "Where's Johanna and Finnick? I have weapons for them as well."
"They went to visit Brutus," Peeta explains.
"Well, I'll just see them later. But now, come, come," Beetee says as he heads towards a wall. He presses a button and the wall slides to reveal 6 bows, a trident, a spear, several knives, several swords, a couple boomerangs, a blow gun, a couple whips, an ax, and a couple sets of ninja stars. "Shall we start?"
"Peeta, my boy, since you are so versatile with weapons, I have designed several for you to choose from," Beetee says grabbing a bow, 2 knives, a sword, and a couple of ninja stars. "Each of these items does something special." He turns to Foxface, "Would you grab the bands dear?" She runs to the other room and comes back with a tray covered in silver looking bands and a wheeled table. She picks up the tray and Beetee places Peeta's weapons on the table.
"These bracelets are specific to each of your DNA," Beetee begins as he looks them over before grabbing one. He puts it on Peeta's wrist and the letters 'PM' begin to glow. "See how the letters glow? That means it recognizes the DNA. Foxface, would you make sure the others get theirs?"
"Sure Beetee," she says as she grabs the next bracelet and puts it on Marvel.
Beetee pulls the table over to a line marked on the floor and turning to make sure Peeta was following. "Each of these items does something special. Let's start with the stars." Beetee steps on a button near him and several dummies like the ones from the training center come out of the ground. He hands Peeta a star, "Press that button in the center and throw it at one of the dummies."
Peeta does what he's told and when the star hits the dummy, it explodes!
"Whoa!" Peeta exclaims excitedly.
"Each star does something different," Beetee explains. He grabs a star, studies it for a moment before calling Clove over. "Clove, you throw this one. Don't forget to push the button."
Clove takes the star, pushes the button, and throws it. It hits the dummy and the points begin to spin around like a chainsaw, cutting through the dummy before dropping to the ground.
"That was wickedly cool! Clove exclaims jumping up and down excitedly.
Beetee grabs the knives and hands one each to Clove and Peeta, "These knives are special too. Press the button on the bottom of the knife, wave the blade over your initial and throw them." Clove and Peeta do as they're told and then each throw their knives. "Now, run your finger over your initials," Beetee says smiling. They do and hear a clanking noise by their feet. They look down and see the knives they just threw. Both are stunned as they pick them back up. Beetee takes the knives and sets them back on the table.
"Marvel, grab the spear and come here. I'll show you your weapon real quick." Beetee says.
As Marvel grabs the spear and walks over towards Beetee, he notices the spear begin to glow. "Uh, why is it glowing?" Marvel asks nervously.
"It recognizes your DNA and bracelet," Beetee explains. "Go ahead and throw it."
Marvel throws it and 30 seconds after impaling the dummy it appears at Marvels feet. He picks it back up, smiling.
"One more thing," Beetee says. "See the button at the bottom? Push it."
Marvel pushes the button and the spear becomes the size of the throwing knives Peeta and Clove had. "Wow! This is so cool." Marvel says excitedly.
"It will make it easier for you to carry in combat and you'll be able to carry several of them at a time," Beetee says as Marvel hands the weapon back.
Beetee picks up the bow and hands it to Peeta, "Gale, Delly, Rie, Madge, and Katniss, please go grab a bow from the wall and join us over here."
Foxface grabs a quiver and hands it to Beetee as the others join Peeta.
"As you can see, there are six different colored arrows here," Beetee begins. He hands the each a different colored arrow. "Orange is fire, blue is ice, green is poison, red is explosive, yellow is electric, and the black is a combo of explosive fire. Fire when ready."
Peeta shoots the orange arrow. Rie shoots the blue arrow. Katniss shoots the green arrow. The poisonous gas is immediately sucked out of the room. Gale shoots the red arrow. Madge shoots the yellow arrow. Delly shoots the black arrow. They were all impressed with what they saw.
Beetee steps on the button and the damaged dummies are replaced by fresh dummies. He trades the bow Peeta was holding for a sword. "Cato, go grab the sword on the wall. Tavin, you grab the whips. The rest of you can put your bows away."
As soon as Cato and Tavin join Peeta at the line, Beetee speaks again. "Boys, please press the buttons on the bottom of your weapons."
Peeta's blade lit up in flames, Cato's blade crackled with electricity, and Tavin's whips also crackled with electricity.
"Tavin, your father told me you were training with whips at the academy in District one," Beetee says smiling at the look on Tavin's face. "Go try them out."
Peeta attacks a dummy causing burn marks. Cato attacks his dummy and it reacts as if it's been electrified. Tavin cracks his whips – one whip leaves an electric burn on the torso while the other wraps around the neck, cutting the head off.
Beetee takes the weapons from the boys after they push the button again turning them off. He turns to the group and calls Wheet over. Foxface brings over the boomerangs and hands one of them to Beetee who hands them over to Wheet. "I want you to try to throw these. Be prepared as they will come back to you. Watch." Beetee throws the boomerang, showing Wheet what to do. Wheet copies what Beetee did and watches as the boomerang cuts into the neck of a dummy before returning.
"There's a button on each of these. One has blades that come out and the other will cause an electric shock. I want you to come back and practice with them later." Beetee says. Wheet nods in agreement.
"Beetee, it's almost time for lunch," Foxface informs him.
"Okay. Let's get these weapons put away and head to lunch," Beetee replies. "Oh, would you guys leave you bracelets here? I have more weapons to DNA link you to."
Foxface grabs the table and takes it over to the wall to put the weapons away. Wheet follows and puts his boomerangs away. Everyone sets their bracelets on the tray before goi8ng to lunch.
As they head out, Peeta notices Cato looks a little down. He grabs Cato's hand and pulls him to the side, "What's wrong baby?"
"Nothing," Cato says before looking Peeta in the eye. He sighs, "I'm just worried about you leaving after lunch," he admits. "Plus, we're going to be separated until dinner. I'm going to miss you."
"First off, I'll miss you too," Peeta says before giving Cato a quick kiss. "Second, I'm a hunter. I'll be fine."
"But what if the mutts come back? I won't be there to protect you," Cato says concern for the younger boy noticeable in his voice.
"I love the fact that you want to protect me Cato, but you know I can take care of myself," Peeta says gently, hoping not to hurt Cato's feelings.
"I know Peeta. I just, after everything, well," Cato stutters unable to get the words right. He sighs before whispering, "I don't want to lose you. I'm still bothered by that nightmare."
"You're not going to lose me," Peeta replies touched by Cato's honesty. "I'm not going out there alone either you know. Gale and Katniss will be with me," he reminds Cato.
Cato just smiles at Peeta as they catch up to the others.
After grabbing their lunches and sitting at the table, Rie suddenly speaks, "Hey Katniss, isn't that your mother having lunch with Boggs?" Everyone looks.
"Yes it is. I wonder what that's all about?" Katniss says confused. They see them share a laugh.
"Looks like they're getting along well," Gale comments, smirking at his friend.
"Shut up Gale!" Katniss says getting upset. Gale throws his hands up in surrender before sharing a look with Clove.
Just then Fennel walks up to the group, "Sons, Delly, I want you to come to my room tonight, family meeting." He turns to Cato, "You can join us too Cato."
"Thank you sir," Cato replies respectfully.
Fennel nods and goes back to work, waving at them all as he walks away.
"That's weird," Gale says. "My mother called a family meeting tonight as well. Even invited Clove to join us."
"That is weird," Peeta agrees sharing a knowing look with Cato. They both smile.
"Alright, what's going on you two? Does Bread Boy and Muscles know something about these family meetings that the rest don't know?" Clove questions when she sees them smiling. She picks up her butter knife, "Tell us now!" she demands threatening them with her knife.
Before either boy could speak, Boggs walked over to the table and addresses the group. "Alright, glad to see you're all together. Makes this much easier. I have the list of the sniper squad. Starting tomorrow morning, you will be training with me. The rest of you will be training with Jackson. Do you understand?"
"Yes sir," they say in unison.
"Great. Tavin, Marvel, Katniss, Clove, Peeta, Wheet, Finnick, and Enobaria are now a part of the sniper squad unit. Congratulations. I will see you tomorrow." Boggs says before walking away.
"Shit Peeta Bread! Is there anything you're not good at?" Johanna asks. "Beetee told Finnick and I about your special weapons. And I've tasted your baking." She adds.
Peeta just shrugs and looks at Cato. Cato gives him a knowing smile but Peeta knows that Cato is upset that they'll be separated even more now.
Katniss stands up. "Let's go hunting boys!" she says before leaning down and giving Marvel a kiss.
Gale give Clove a kiss before standing up to join Katniss.
Cato grabs Peeta as he stands up and pulls the younger boy into his lap. He kisses Peeta deeply before whispering in his ear, "Please be safe."
Ignoring the catcalls and whistles, Peeta looks at Cato before whispering back, "Always."
Peeta stands up and leaves with Katniss and Gale. Clove moves closer to Cato.
"Hey muscles, are you okay?" she asks her oldest friend.
"Yeah, I'm fine," Cato replies watching the trio leave.
"Bullshit," Clove scoffs. "Let's go talk."
The two get up and go out the door. Once in the hallway, Clove tries again, "Cato, we've been friends for a long time. I know when something's wrong. You've been acting kind of weird all morning. What gives?" she asks.
He looks down at her and sighs, "I had a nightmare last night. In it, I was tortured and Peeta was killed in front of me. I couldn't save him. I haven't had a dream like that since I was little. It scares me and now I don't like letting him out of my sight. I don't understand why I feel this way."
"Oh Cato, you can't let your dreams get to you like that. And we both know that Peeta can take care of himself," Clove says studying Cato closely.
"I know Clove, but I can't seem to help it. I'm afraid he'll get hurt or worse – taken away from me," Cato admits.
"It's more than that though, isn't it Cato?" she asks seeing something in his eyes.
"What do you mean? More than what?" he asks a little confused.
"Oh muscles, I never thought this day would ever come," she says giddy with joy.
"Clove, what in the hell are you talking about?" he asks frustrated.
"Cato, what do you feel when you think of Peeta?" Clove asks, smiling. "And be honest."
"I don't understand Clove. I feel happy when I think of Peeta," He responds.
"Dig deeper Cato," Clove says, trying to get him to realize what she had figured out.
"Do we have to do this? If you know something, just spit it out!" he yells.
"I'm not going to tell you Cato. This is something you need to figure out on your own big guy. I know you'll figure it out soon," she tells him. "But you better get going now. Don't want to be late on your first day of teaching."
Clove leaves him standing there in the hallway, more confused than ever. How does his nightmare fit in with how he feels about Peeta? He cares about Peeta, a lot. But what does that have to do with watching him die in his dream? He feels a headache coming on from trying to figure it all out. He decides he better get going to help his dad with the class.
For Peeta, Gale, and Katniss, being able to hunt together again was like coming home again. Their teamwork was right back to what it was before the games. And shockingly, despite the mutts that had been in the area not too long ago, they were able to get quite a bit of game including 4 rabbits, 2 turkeys, and a deer. They set up many snares in hopes that they will be full tomorrow.
When their hunting time was up, they took their haul down to the kitchen where they saw Greasy Sae. She happily took their kills and promised them a special treat for dinner. They left her and headed to their rooms to get showered and joined their class for military training. They ran laps, climbed walls, and ran an obstacle course – just like they did in the training center in the Capitol. When they got a 10 minute break, Marvel came up and told them that Tavin and Wheet were in the hand-to-hand combat class taught by Cato and his father.
By the time they all went to dinner, they were exhausted. As promised, Sae had made the 3 hunters a rabbit stew. It was a taste of their old life and they missed it terribly. The others saw the stew and wanted to try it as well so Sae brought them all out a small bowl.
After dinner, Boggs informed Peeta, Cato, Gale, and Katniss that they had the rest of the night off as the trainers were going to a meeting with Coin to discuss the war effort.
Cato and Peeta joined Peeta's siblings heading up to their dad's rooms as Gale and Clove headed to his mother's room. They waited for about half an hour before Fennel arrived. Peeta didn't really want to be there. He just wanted to go back to his room with Cato and go to bed.
"Hey kids, let me get cleaned up and then we'll talk," Fennel says as he walks in the door and heads to the other room.
When Fennel comes back out, he sees his kids laughing and talking. It warms his heart. He hopes what he's about to tell them will go over just as well.
Wheet sees his dad first, "Hey dad, what's going on? What's up with calling a family meeting?"
"Actually, I'm expecting a couple more people to arrive before we begin," Fennel admits right before there is a knock on the door. "They're here," he says smiling. He rushes to the door and greets the Hawthorne family as he invites them in.
Peeta sits on Cato's lap to make room for the Hawthorne kids to sit down. Posy goes over to Wheet and climbs in his lap, twirling his hair in her hand. Gale and Clove come over and she sits on his lap so that Vick and Rory could sit between the two couples.
Fennel and Hazel stay standing side by side, smiling at each other sweetly before turning to their children.
"We each called this family meeting because we wanted to talk to you all together. Cato and Clove, you were invited because Gale and Peeta would probably tell you anyway," Hazel begins.
"Plus, not being direct members of the families, you will have a different perspective," Fennel adds. "Hazel and I have something we'd like to discuss with you all. Please hear us out before you say anything."
The older kids all share a confused look except Peeta and Cato, who try to keep a blank look on their faces.
Fennel looks at Gale, "I've been spending time with your mother since the night of the tribute parade. I've gotten to know her on a 'friendly' level," he gets flustered and stops talking, trying to find the right words. Hazel grabs Fennel's hand to give him the strength to continue. This does not go unnoticed by the kids. Fennel smiles down at Hazel, and before he can continue, Gale speaks.
"I'm sorry to interrupt you Mr. Mellark, but are you saying that you'd like to date my mother?" he asks as he realizes what's going on.
"I guess I am, with your permission of course. All of your permission, from both families," Fennel says, stumbling over his own words.
Gale looks over to Peeta who smiles and shrugs. "I'm okay with it," Gale says as he looks up and sees his mother smile at Fennel.
"Me too," Peeta says, laying his head on Cato's shoulder, a knowing smile on his face.
Gale and Peeta turn to Wheet, Delly, and Rie who haven't said a word yet. They just look stunned. Finally Wheet speaks first, "I say go for it dad, live your life."
"I certainly don't have a problem with this either," Rie adds.
"I'm not sure I have any right to have a say in this as we just found out that I'm a part of this family," Delly admits. "But I don't see why the two of you can't be happy. I say yes as well."
"Rory, Vick, Posy, you have a say in this as well," Hazel says to her younger children. "Is it okay with you if I spend more time with Fennel, eh, Mr. Mellark?"
"I guess it's okay with me," says Rory. He's a little shocked still to be able to have a say.
Vick looks at his mom and at Mr. Mellark. He can see how happy his mom is when she is around him. He doesn't quite understand exactly what is going on, but if she spends more time with Mr. Mellark the baker maybe they'll get more goodies. "Okay mom," Vick says.
"Rosy Posy," Wheet says to the little girl on his lap. "My dad would like to spend more time with your mommy. Is that okay with you?"
"Does that mean I get more cookies?" she asks.
Wheet looks confused for a moment. Then he answers, "I don't see why not. It might even mean you get to learn to bake them too."
"Really?" Posy asks eyes wide. She looks at her mom, "Okay mommy. When can I learn to make cookies?"
"Not tonight sweetie," Fennel answers. "I'll have to talk to President Coin to get permission."
"You should make the offer to teach all the younger kids a baking class. It might be something she'd go for," Clove suggests.
"That's a brilliant idea Clove. Thank you," Fennel says.
Gale signals to Clove to stand. "Well, I think we'll take the young ones back to their room and get them ready for bed. Enjoy your evening mother," Gale says to Hazel. "Come on you three, it's nearly bedtime."
"Aww, I don't wanna go bed," Posy pouts.
"You know you have to be a good girl to get to learn to make cookies," Wheet whispers to her. She looks up at him suspiciously and he nods.
"Okay," she says dejectedly before giving Wheet a hug and getting down.
"Hey Posy, where's my hug?" teases Rie.
She runs over to him and gives him a hug. She turns to Delly and gives her a hug as well. She then runs over to Peeta and Cato who are now sitting side by side and gives each of them a big hug. "Love you brother Peeta," she whispers as she hugs him. He doesn't have a chance to say anything back as she crawls into Cato's lap and gives him a hug.
After Clove and Gale get the younger Hawthorne's out, Peeta and Cato stand to leave as well. Wheet, Rie, and Delly follow their lead.
"Bye dad," Peeta says smiling at Fennel. "Good night Mama Hazel," he adds before taking Cato's hand and pulling him out the door, barely giving him a chance to say good bye. Wheet, Rie, and Delly each say goodnight as they quickly follow the two boys out.
"What was that all about Peet?" Wheet asks as they get into the elevator.
"I just wanted to give them some privacy," Peeta replies.
"Right. You practically dragged poor Cato out of there. Spill it baby brother," Rie says.
"Fine," Peeta relents. "Cato and I saw dad and Mama Hazel in the gardens before we got stuck in the cavern. They were holding hands. I don't know if they saw us there and I didn't want to find out."
"So wait, you knew about them?" Wheet asks incredulously looking between Cato and Peeta.
Cato looks down embarrassed, "Sort of. I think they look cute together."
"You guys don't think it's too soon for dad to be dating do you?" Peeta asks his brothers.
"Peeta, dad hadn't been with Mother for a very long time. In fact, He spent many nights sleeping in his office after she kicked you out," Wheet says.
"Besides, dad needs to be with someone nice," Rie adds. "And there's no nicer lady than Mrs. Hawthorne."
The five of them get off the elevator and see Katniss and Marvel sitting on the ground, talking quietly.
"Hey you two, what's going on?" Delly asks.
Katniss and Marvel look at the five others standing there. "I think my mom likes Boggs," Katniss blurts out.
"And that's bad?" Cato asks a little confused.
"No, not really," Katniss admits. "It's just weird. I mean, I never thought my mother would ever want to be with anyone other than my father."
"You think that's weird? Our dad called a family meeting to talk," Rie says. "And you know how Gale mentioned his mom called a family meeting as well?" Katniss and Marvel nod. "Well, it was actually a joint family meeting so they could ask us for permission to date."
"What?!" exclaims Katniss.
"Wait your dad and Gale's mom are now dating?" Marvel asks stunned.
"Yep," Wheet replies. "It must be something in the District 13 water supply," he jokes.
The elevator door opens and Clove and Gale step out. "Well, this looks interesting," Gale comments as he sees them all sitting on the floor. "What's going on Catnip?"
"Well let's see," Katniss replies. "My mother might like Boggs and your mom is dating Peeta's dad. I think that about covers it all."
Gale laughs, "Yeah, it's pretty strange but mom sure seems happier. So, Boggs and your mom huh?"
Before Katniss can reply, Tavin steps out of his room and sits with the rest of the group, "Hey guys, is everything okay?"
"Just a very odd night," Delly replies.
Johanna steps out of the elevator and sees them all sitting in the hallway. "Well, this is an interesting place for a party," she says as she sits down with everyone else.
"Hey JoJo, what are you doing roaming around?" Peeta asks happy to change the subject of his dad and Gale's mom. He didn't really want to deal with the others finding out he and Cato knew about the parents and never said anything.
"Not much. Was just visiting Brutus again. Dr. Aurelius says he should be out of the hospital in the next day or so," she tells him before turning to Wheet, "Hey Wheet Bread, can we go talk somewhere? Alone?"
"Sure," Wheet replies jumping to his feet before offering his assistance to Johanna. "See ya guys," he calls over his shoulder as the two walk away.
Foxface steps out of the elevator next and sees everyone sitting there. "Aww, a welcoming committee for me? I feel so special," she teases as she sits next to Rie.
"Hey, did you have a nice visit with your family?" Rie asks nicely. Peeta looks at his brother in shock. Was Rie flirting with her?
Cato grabs Peeta's hand. "I'm tired baby. You ready to go to bed?" he whispers in Peeta's ear.
Peeta turns to look at the sweet guy next to him and nods.
"Good night guys," they say before getting up and heading to their room. Once inside, they quickly shower together before climbing into bed snuggled up together. Peeta lays his head on Cato's chest, his heartbeat coaxing him to sleep.
"Pretty eventful day," Cato comments.
"Yeah, I'm really tired," Peeta agrees.
"You want to know my favorite part?" Cato asks sleepily.
"Sure," Peeta replies just as tired.
"This morning when you were on top of me," Cato says very nearly asleep.
"Hmm," is the last thing Cato hears from Peeta.
Sorry, I couldn't resist adding another sex scene so soon! Next chapter sneak peek: the sniper team goes on their first mission, lies will be told, we learn a new secret about Coin, and a new couple is revealed. Until next time…