Chapter 7: When Tomorrow Comes

Today is the final day of training, and to say I'm a nervous wreck would be an understatement. My night was mostly nightmare free, but I awake early again, only getting about six hours of blissful unconsciousness. Considering how hard sleep has been to come by since entering the Capitol, I'm thankful for what little I manage to get. The sun already illuminates the artificial Capitol sky, though by the looks of it, it couldn't have risen more than a few minutes ago. I don't bother trying to go back to sleep, instead choosing to get ready for the day early.

Peeta is the only one in the main room when I enter. He's sitting alone at the breakfast table, and I make my way over, taking a seat opposite of him. We bid each other good morning before we begin eating a quiet breakfast. The silence in the room is for once a comfortable one. Neither of us feels the need to fill the space with conversation. When we do talk, it's about the most menial of things. He doesn't force me to talk about home or the Games.

I'm incredibly grateful to know someone like Peeta. His presence alone has a way of reassuring me. It's a little strange to find myself this comfortable around someone that I barely know. I can't help but think of how ironic it is. I consider Peeta a friend, the second real one I've ever had, and we're only here because we were both chosen to die.

The TV is on at the far end of the room, and when a special airs about the engagement, he gets a sullen look on his face. Caesar's voice booms, asking questions about wedding venues, and Peeta just pushes the eggs around his plate with unfocused eyes. I don't broach the subject, but once again, I find myself wondering what's really going on between them. I haven't had much time to worry about anything other than Games, but I can tell that something is up. Whatever it is, the best I can do is hope is that it works out for them. I don't have the benefit of worrying about other people's problems right now.

Around 8:30, the rest of my team joins us. Everyone seems nervous, even the mentors. I'm reminded that this is Katniss and Peeta's first year in this position. At the least, in a few weeks time, three of their tributes will be dead. It seems almost as bad as having to go into the arena yourself.

"Alright, let's go over today's plan," Haymitch says as he walks into the main room. "The morning session will go just like every other day, but after lunch you'll have your private session with the Gamemakers. So if there was ever a time to stand out, it's now, kids. Make sure you show them a wide range of skills. Versatility is a good thing to have in the arena."

I give him a nod, trying to look confident. I don't think I'm very successful though. I've barely touched my food, and I'm jittery. I have no idea what I'm going to show the Gamemakers. They already have my time from the obstacle course, but now I have to show them actual skills. Something tells me they're not going to be impressed with my ability to start a fire. Haymitch is right. I can't just show them one thing. I'm not good enough with knives to get by on that alone, and survival skills are always weighted lower than weapons. I just hope I'm decent enough at both to get a score that's not lower than a five. If I score that low, I won't have any sponsors. I'll have to rely on myself in the arena. Unless…

"Hey, Haymitch."

My mentor looks up at me with a mouthful of pancake.

"I wanted to talk to you about an alliance."

He swallows and gives me a serious look. "I don't know if that's such a good idea, kid. Alliances are tenuous, at best."

I narrow my eyes slightly at him. "I know how they are Haymitch," I say surlily and

louder than I intended.

Everyone at the table stops what they're doing, and the silence that falls over us is

charged. The grip on my fork has tightened so much that my knuckles are almost white as I glare at my mentor. I can see what's going through his head: Amelia and Demetrius, and I tighten my grip even more. Of course I know how uneasy alliances can be. I've just spent the better part of the last week being painfully reminded of my sister.

He sighs and his expression softens. "What makes you want one?"

"Twenty-four of us get to leave the first arena. I don't have to be against everyone. I have a better chance of making it out if I have someone to work with."

Haymitch leans back in his seat, staring intently at my face. I think he's trying to decipher something, but I don't know what. Whatever it is, he seems to find what he's looking for. "Who did you have in mind?"

"The boy from Nine, Barden. And one of the girls from Six, Zeppina."

"Why?"

I glance around at the others sitting at the table. I don't want any of them to overhear what I'm saying just in case either of them had planned on keeping their skills a secret in the arena. Neither of them had seemed too worried about it in the gymnasium yesterday, and everyone at the table has moved back into their own conversation, but I speak quietly just in case.

"Barden is strong. He's really good with a sickle, and it translates pretty well to some of the smaller swords. And Zeppina's smart. She picks things up like crazy, mostly survival skills, but even some of the weapons."

Haymitch rubs a hand over his face as he thinks. I can't read his expression, and his silence is making me nervous. He needs to say yes. This is my only shot at surviving the first arena. If the Careers are really going to go after me like everyone seems to think, I'm going to need all the help I can get. A part of me feels bad for ignoring my district partners in all of this, but I know that an alliance with them would never work. I'd be too attached by the sheer fact that they're from my district, and if it came down to it, I don't think I'd be able to kill them.

"The first one could work, if you think you can trust him," Haymitch says with a pointed look. "The second one, I'm not so sure about. People like that can be cunning. When things get tough, they'll turn on you in a second."

He's only telling me things I already know, but I think over his words carefully. I'm not afraid of Barden. Despite this being a game to the death, I don't think he would have it in him to turn on his allies. But Haymitch may be right about Zeppina. I don't know much about her. I had noticed her once or twice on the first day, working at the knot tying station, and she was very good at it. She had also proven that she could pick up weapons pretty easily. Like me, she wasn't great at them, but she wouldn't be easy to take down either. She doesn't seem usually cold or ruthless, and she's incredibly reserved. But she's smart. And the way she quietly observes everything around her tells me there's more going on in her head than she lets on. She watches everything, cataloguing every piece of information for future use. Her gaze is always calculating, and I know that I'll have to watch her closely.

She may not be the most physical threat, but the sly ones are always dangerous, like the girl from Five last year. If it weren't for those berries, who knows what would have happened.

"I'll keep an eye on her, Haymitch. I'll keep one on both of them."

"Alright, if you're sure. I'll talk to their mentors today. But," he says, giving me a shrewd look, "the training score could change things. We may not get an answer until they announce them."

I give him a quick nod. I hadn't thought about that. My score will be mediocre at best, which doesn't do much for me besides get the Careers off my back. It won't get me more sponsors, because no one really cares unless you score above an eight. For all I know, both Barden and Zeppina are harboring some secret skill that could get them a high score, and they won't want to work with me. Usually high scores are enough to get the Careers to consider you as a potential ally or a threat, depending on how you act towards them. But since there are already twelve of them this year, a good score will only make you into a target. Which means that if Zeppina and Barden score well, it could be problematic for me.

I sigh. This doesn't change anything though. They're the only people I'll consider working with in the arena, so I just have to hope for the best.

The clock tells us that it's a quarter to 10:00, meaning that it's time for us to head down to the Training Center for our final day. The nerves hit me full force as I make my way to the elevator, and I'm glad that I haven't eaten much because I'm sure I would throw it up.

"Don't be discouraged if the Gamemakers don't seem to be paying attention to you," Peeta says as we wait for the elevator. "I know that this may sound bad, but they'll have already sat through forty-four other tributes, and they might be a little distracted when it's time for your session. Just stick to your plan, and it should be okay."

Great. It's another thing I hadn't thought of. My session is going to be lackluster as it is, but I'll probably look especially boring after they've already watched all the other tributes go. There's no way I'm scoring above a four.

I glance up nervously from my spot at the shelter making station. It's near the center of the room, so I've got a pretty good view of all the tributes. Now if only I could make myself move.

I had entered the Training Center with every intention of asking Barden and Zeppina about an alliance. I even practiced what I would say. But of course, as soon as I spotted him at the far end of the room, I chickened out because of yet another thing I hadn't thought of. Barden was at the wrestling station, talking to more people I don't know. Seeing him there, it hits me that an alliance may already be out of the question. Barden seems to know everyone, and there's a good chance he's already entered into an alliance with someone else.

Or he could just say no. He didn't seem too concerned about the Careers yesterday, but if he thinks that I'll attract danger, there's no way he'd say yes, no matter how nice he is.

So that leads me to where I am now; building a shelter out of something called palm leaves, while trying to work up the nerve to approach Barden and Zeppina. I groan. What is wrong with me? I'm not a shy person, and this really shouldn't be that difficult. It's not a big deal. Except for the fact that it might be my only chance of staying alive.

I huff in annoyance and push myself up from my knees. I need to get this over with. Steeling myself for the worst possible outcome, I take a breath and stride across the room towards the tree climbing station where Barden and Zeppina have migrated. They're having a conversation, but I can't hear what they're saying over the sound of the other tributes. I wonder if they're discussing alliances. As Barden is talking, I manage to catch his gaze, and he gives me a boyish grin as I make my way over.

His eyes are full of mirth as he turns to me. "Hey, Briar. What brings you over here? Come to show us how they climb trees in Twelve?"

I roll my eyes good-naturedly. "Just because Katniss knows how to climb trees, doesn't mean that everyone in District Twelve does. I've only done it a few times," I say with a shrug. "I'm not very good at it."

"You held yourself on the ropes pretty well yesterday, though," Zeppina says. "You'd probably be able to pull yourself up better than most."

I purse my lips and shrug again. "Maybe."

I need to stop talking about trees. I don't know how to approach the subject of an alliance though. I should have asked Haymitch.

"So, uh, are you guys ready for the arena?" I wince when the words leave my mouth.

Wow. Stupid question.

Barden looks at me with an amused expression, and Zeppina raises an eyebrow.

I groan aloud. It's best to just spit it out. "What I meant is..." I pause while I struggle to find the right words. "What I meant to ask is if either of you would be interested in an alliance…with me."

Even though I'm nervous, I'm determined to show them how serious I am. I make eye contact with both of them as they take in my words. Neither of them move for a few moments, and I'm convinced that they're trying to figure out how to tell me no, but then Barden smiles down at me.

"Sure."

Sure. That's all he has to say? Not that I'm complaining. If only I had known it was going to be that easy. I would have saved myself a lot of stress. I give him a thankful smile and turn my gaze on Zeppina. Her lips are pursed, and I can tell she's seriously debating her answer. She looks between us once before speaking.

"I'll have to talk to my mentor first."

I give her a quick nod and a small grin. "Yeah, okay. Haymitch⎯-my mentor⎯-said he would talk to your mentors today anyway."

They both give me a nod, and the conversation is over as soon as it started. Relief fills my chest as we make our way to another station. I'm sure they're both more than aware that going into the arena on your own, against forty-seven other people would be suicide, no matter what skills they have. But, that didn't mean they had to say yes to me, considering that I haven't exactly been Katniss Everdeen the last two days.

Zeppina hadn't given me a definite answer, but at least she's thinking about it. She strikes me as the type of person who would have no qualms about turning me down if she didn't think it was in her best interest, so I take it as a win. She hadn't been my main priority anyway. Barden seems to like her enough, but I don't know if the kid has it in him to dislike anyone. Even still, liking someone doesn't equate to trusting them. As much as I like Barden, I can't let myself trust him completely; I can't let myself trust either of them. I've seen where that leads, and I have no desire to go there.

When it comes time for lunch, the three of us sit by ourselves, and I'm glad of it. I don't want to sit anywhere near that kid from Three again. A lot of the other tributes are sitting by themselves as well, and the room is unnaturally quiet as we all wait for our turn to impress the Gamemakers. It makes it pretty easy to tell who's in an alliance with whom, but aside from the Careers, I don't think anyone cares much. All the kids from my district are sitting alone. It makes me feel bad, but I immediately push the thought from my mind. Sympathy won't get me anywhere in the arena. A good training score on the other hand…

The number in the room is quickly dwindling as each tribute is called out. The tributes from One, Two, and Four all stride out of the room with confident smirks on their faces, and the anxiety gnawing at my stomach grows worse with each passing minute. I can tell that Zeppina, and even goofy Barden, are becoming more and more nervous as well.. We all watch in silence as the first of the girls from Five is called into her session.

Barden seems unable to bear the quiet for much longer, turning and asking, "Do you guys have any idea what you're gonna do in there?"

I wish more than anything that I had an answer to give him, but nothing has changed since this morning. I still have no idea what I'm going to show them.

"I'm going to try and mix it up a little. Show them a couple different things."

Barden nods his head at my answer and turns to Zeppina. "I have a plan," is all she says, and neither one of us asks her to explain further. It doesn't really matter what she does in there so long as she gets a decent score.

The next few minutes pass quickly, and before I know it, Zeppina is called in. She looks to have paled a couple shades as she stands from her seat. We wish her luck as she gives us one last look before making her way to the Training Center. Barden and I don't talk after she leaves, the both of us just picking at our food. Soon enough, Barden too is sent off to the Gamemakers, and I'm left alone at the table to figure out exactly what I plan on doing in my own session.

As slow as the time seemed to pass before, it flies by after Barden leaves, and I find myself extremely flustered because I still feel unprepared. Both Collis and Karn have already gone in, and I know it's only a matter of time before they call my name. The room is completely silent now, as Thalia and I wait for our turns. She's sitting a few tables away from me, which I think is a good thing, considering she looks about ready to throw her lunch back up. Not that I'm feeling much better.

"Briar Kinross!"

I snap my head towards the door when the attendant calls my name. Slowly, I stand on shaky legs and start making my way towards the gymnasium. I pass Thalia on the way out. She's staring at me like a spooked animal, and I try to give her a small smile and a quiet good luck.

I walk into the Training Center with a determined look on my face, hoping to show the Gamemakers that I'm a serious contender, but as soon as I enter the room, all of my worries are confirmed. It's exactly like Peeta had said it would be. None of the Gamemakers are paying any attention to me as I move to the center of the room, all of them too engrossed in whatever loud conversation they're having.

I clear my throat loudly before addressing the group. "Briar Kinross, District Twelve."

Most of them barely look at me. A few of them give me a nod of acknowledgement, but I can't help but think that it's because they're expecting me to do something impressive like Katniss did last year. A large man in the center looks over at me from the box. He must be the new Head Gamemaker, Plutarch Heavensbee.

"You may begin, Ms. Kinross."

I remember what Haymitch said as I make my way over to the snare station. I have to show them versatility. It's good in the arena.

The snare I make is a complicated one. It's motion activated, triggering when the animal steps onto the noose and releasing the trap. I use a dummy to demonstrate, and I breathe a heavy sigh of relief when it actually works. I move to the shelter station next, quickly building the same one I had worked on earlier in the day with palm leaves. Most of them either look bored to death or have gone back to completely ignoring me by this point. I narrow my eyes at them as I practically stomp my way over to the edible food and insects station.

It's one station I'm particularly eager to show my skill at. I'm sure the Gamemakers still remember the girl from Five who died because of the berries, so I hope that they now consider it a relatively important thing to know. I breeze through it, easily remembering the little bits of information. One man in dark suit gives me a nod of approval.

I know that I'm running out of time, so I quickly make my way over to the knife station. I grab a couple different knives, all of them light, as well as a dummy, which I drag to the middle of the floor. I make sure to be extra loud as I place it on the ground. Satisfied that it catches the attention of some of the Gamemakers, I pace out 10 yards from the dummy and start throwing. I recall my work with Mr. Fairbain, and I try to aim for all the crucial points in the body, areas that are heavy in muscle or could cause someone to bleed out. By the time I'm done, I've managed to hit the thigh, twice in the stomach, and once in the neck. The hits make me look like a better shot than I really am, but it serves it purpose because a few more of them are looking over at me.

Plutarch Heavensbee nods at me again. "Thank you, Ms. Kinross. You are dismissed."

I try to walk out of the room looking as confident as I had when I walked in while a pair of Avoxes lead me out of the gymnasium and into the elevator. My brave facade is pretty much the only thing I have going for me at this point. I'm suddenly overcome with the urge to hit something or to cry. Possibly both. I wasn't impressive at all, and they barely paid any attention to me.

I'll be lucky if I get a four.

When the elevator door opens to the apartment, I hear the sound of hushed conversation. From where I'm standing I can that all the mentors are huddled together, whispering intently to each other. I stand where I am for a moment, not really sure what to do, before Peeta catches sight of me. They all straighten up when he looks at me, and their conversation stops abruptly.

"How did it go?" Haymitch questions from across the room.

The elevator ride wasn't nearly long enough to make me calm down. I want nothing more than to go to sleep and pretend like today never happened, but I don't tell them that. They'll understand soon enough when they see my score.

I try to keep a neutral front when I answer. "It was okay. I'll explain more later. I'm just going to take a shower real quick." I don't give any of them time to reply, before I turn and quickly walk to my room. I lock the door behind me before stripping off my clothes and making my way to the shower. The hot spray helps me calm down a little, but it doesn't make most of the frustration or dejection go away.

I don't know what I'm going to do now. I'm going to lose whatever sponsors I may have had before. No one wants to support a weak tribute. I let out a disheartened moan at the thought. I can't help but think about what Mr. Fairbain and Mabel will think when they see my score. They'll know what it means for me, and I know that I'll be letting them down. It's even more frustrating because I know that there's nothing I could have done to make my private session go better. That was as good as it was ever going to get. I really hope it doesn't make me lose my alliance. Then I'd be a goner for sure.

I shake my head and mentally chide myself at the thought. I have to stop letting myself get down so easily. I can't let this change anything. If this causes me to lose sponsors, if Barden and Zeppina decide that they don't want to be allies, I'll find another way because I have to. I'll prove to them in the arena that I'm determined to win the Games.

By the time I emerge from my bedroom, it's time for dinner, and everyone has migrated back to the main room. Thalia must have returned sometime during my shower. She looks sad again, and I assume that her session didn't go well either. By the looks of it, no one seems to think their session went too well. Even Karn doesn't look confident, which doesn't bode well for the rest of us. I spot Portia and Cinna down at the end of the table, as well as Gaius and Althea. This is the first night they've joined us for dinner. I assume it has to do with the announcement of the scores tonight. I can already imagine how disappointed they're going to be.

I make my way over to the table, and sink down into my usual seat. I must have missed everyone else explaining how their session went, because the table is relatively quiet. The only conversation going on is something about the interviews coming up in two days. I'm momentarily distracted by the smell of the food as I scoop some bread and chicken covered in brown sauce onto my plate. I'm starving thanks to my nerves making it impossible for me to eat anything earlier. Unfortunately, I barely have any time to take my first bite before Haymitch starts interrogating me about what happened in my private session.

"Alright, kid, how was it?"

I swallow the piece of chicken I had been chewing. I'm pretty sure my face has contorted into a grimace as I try to explain. "It was pretty much exactly like Peeta said it would be. They were being loud, and laughing, and no one really paid any attention to me. And I'm pretty sure I disappointed the few who were watching. They looked like they were expecting me to do something impressive. Which I didn't."

"What did you show them?" Haymitch asks with a raise of his eyebrows.

"I tried to be versatile," I say, "but I think I just came off as boring. I made a snare and a shelter. I did the edible plants and insects test, and I showed them the other thing we talked about. I got lucky on a few of the shots."

Haymitch shakes his head. "Doesn't matter. They don't know that."

Cinna sends me a smile from the other end of the table. "It sounds like you did fine. I'm sure there's nothing to worry about."

Their reassurance doesn't do much to make me feel better. I can't help but think that I've disappointed everyone. Katniss and Peeta both did so well last year. I won't even come close to their scores.

I don't say much else over the course of dinner, nor when we migrate over to the couch when the announcement starts. Caesar and Claudius' faces appear on screen, their voices just as loud and excited as I remember them. Slowly but surely, they begin to show the scores. Faces pop up as Caesar reads their marks. Everything goes pretty much as expected for the Careers. Mace gets a ten, and everyone else from his district gets a nine. Cato and both the girls from Two all get tens, while the other boy gets a nine. All the kids from Four score either an nine or an eight. They're going to be nearly impossible to beat.

Only a few other people stand out. Zeppina manages an eight, which doesn't come as a surprise to me. I knew that she had some other skills that she hadn't revealed. One of the boys from Seven that I remember from the reaping scores a ten. Probably good with an ax. Barden's face appears on screen, and Caesar announces a score of nine. Not entirely unexpected, but I wonder what this means for our alliance. None of the kids from Ten score well. I feel a little guilty for my smug smile when the rat-faced boy gets a four. Eleven is equally unimpressive, and Caesar announces that it's time for District Twelve.

I hold my breath as he begins to announce our scores. Collis receives a seven, which seems to catch him by surprise, though he's happy nonetheless. Karn manages to pull a nine, and I have to fight down the feeling of uneasiness it gives me. My face appears on screen, and I slowly let out the breath I was holding while Caesar announces my score. I somehow manage to get an eight.

An eight.

The sense of relief that overcomes me is practically euphoric. Everyone gives me their congratulations, and Haymitch even raises his glass to me. I smile back in return. After they announce Thalia's score of five, Caesar and Claudius sign off, saying that this year will indeed be exciting.

"You should all be very proud of yourselves," Effie tells us with a sincere smile.

Haymitch gives me a quick pat on the shoulder. "Nice job, kid," he says. "Must have done something right."

I don't know how I managed to get that score considering most of the Gamemakers weren't paying any attention to me, but I'm not about to start complaining. My time on the obstacle course must have really given me a boost. Either that or Haymitch must have been right, they were probably impressed by my versatility.

It feels like a huge weight has been lifted from my chest. I haven't disappointed anyone. An eight is considered a decent score—a good score even—going into the arena. It will help me keep my sponsors because I don't look weak, while simultaneously getting the Careers off my back because I no longer look like a big threat. It's a win-win as far as I'm concerned.

"I have news for you as well," Haymitch says after a minute. "You're in." He elaborates after seeing my look of confusion. "Both Nine and Six have agreed to the alliance."

My face breaks into a smile. This might just work.

The next day can only be described as pure torture. Everyone is given a day to prepare their tributes for the interviews tomorrow and as it turns out, my little session with Effie the other night does not count as a part of my preparation. Instead I'm put through a grueling three hours of Effie teaching me things like posture, eye contact, how to carry my dress, and smiling. I tell Effie I'm pretty sure I know how to do the last one already, but she just shushes me and tells me to practice in the mirror. Eventually, she comes to the conclusion that my best smile is my "shy smile," whatever that means.

Then she moves back to walking in high heels. I'm a little better this time, but I still wobble around like I'm learning to walk for the first time. I almost trip over my dress about three times, which only results in me throwing the stupid shoes across the room, and Effie almost having a panic attack while she chastises me. Then there's more talk about things like waving, sitting, and not sighing like I don't want to be there. I think that one is the hardest of them all.

After a quick lunch, I'm passed off to Haymitch for practice on the content of my interview. This part goes a little better considering I had gone over a lot of it with Effie earlier in the week, but it still puts me in a sour mood. It apparently comes through in the way I answer, because Haymitch stops asking his questions and stares at me for moment. I raise a brow at him, and gesture for him to go on.

"You've got to relax a little. You may be smiling, but your tone makes you sound resentful, and like you don't want to be here."

I huff slightly. "That's because I am resentful, and I don't want to be here."

He rolls his eyes. "But you can't let them know that. You have to make them connect with you, and you can't do that if they think you secretly hate them." Haymitch holds a hand up in my direction, no doubt predicting the words that are about to come out of my mouth. "Let's try something different. Pretend you're talking to someone you actually like. Good. Now, what about your father? How does he feel about having to send another child into the Games?"

The question takes me off guard for a moment. I had never considered that Caesar might ask something like that. What does my father think about it? I come up empty. "Um, I wouldn't really know. I haven't talked to him since before I was reaped," I say with a shrug.

I hadn't expected to him to come say goodbye. It's something reserved for people that actually care. He hadn't even wanted to come when Amelia was reaped. I practically had to drag him into the Hall of Justice.

Haymitch seems a little surprised by my answer. Or maybe it's because I left the anger out of my voice.

We work for about another hour after that. He asks questions about things like working in the butcher's shop, my friends, Amelia, Demetrius, and Cato. I try my best to sound friendly and smile. Haymitch doesn't stop me again, so I take that as a good sign. By the time we finish, I'm completely worn out, and Haymitch doesn't look to be fairing much better.

"Well, you definitely have the sympathy angle working for you, kid." He says it without any malice, more like he's talking to himself than to me.

I snort lightly even though I don't find it funny at all. Whatever it takes to win, I guess.

When I awake the next morning, I'm immediately whisked away to be worked on by my prep team for the interviews tonight.

"How is our favorite tribute?" Garric asks as he and the rest of my team scuttle into the room.

I resist the urge to point out that I'm their only tribute, and instead give them a small smile. "I'm fine. A little nervous about tonight."

"Oh you'll be wonderful," the small man says. "Cinna is going to make you look fabulous. As will we too, of course."

From there, everything seems to blur into different sensations of pain and levels of discomfortable as they try to make me look presentable. To my discomfort, I'm naked once again, and they set about removing every little piece of hair from my body, even though I didn't think there was any left after my first day in the Remake Center. Then I'm covered in a variety of lotions that according to Clio, are meant to literally make me shine on stage. At least I'll fit in with the Capitol people. Garric paints my nails in the same sheer color he did for the parade while Petronia pulls my dark hair to one side of my head and curls it, placing feathers throughout. Clio then sets to work on my make-up, covering my face in layer upon layer. The styling around my eyes is dark and sharp as is the make-up on my cheeks. I look as bird-like as I did for the parade.

Cinna enters shortly after with my dress, and my prep team practically swoons when they pull it out and slide it over my head. It's soft and light, and I'm surprised by its simplicity until Cinna tells me it's missing the final touch. He wraps a flexible sort of wiring around me, and Petronia helps me into my shoes. They're incredibly high, and I'm already terrified that I'm going to trip as Cinna leads me over to the mirror.

Once again, I am amazed by what Cinna has managed to do. The dress is even more gorgeous than the one I wore for the chariot rides. It's strapless, and the fabric of the dress is a mixture of earthy greens, yellows, and browns. The wiring he placed around me looks like golden branches and leaves twisting together as they wrap around my torso and drape over the skirt of the dress. It's enchanting, and I have no words to describe to Cinna just how thankful I am.

"Do you like it?" he asks me sweetly as we all admire the dress in the mirror.

"I…I love it, Cinna," I breathe out softly. "I don't know what to say. It's amazing."

He smiles at me. "You don't have to say anything. This is your night."

Not long after, it's time to head down. My prep team rushes out of the room as Cinna slowly leads me out into the hall. I have to grab his arm with one hand while I hike up my dress with the other, taking very cautious steps. The nerves are only making me stumble worse. The practice with Effie did nothing to prepare me for these heels.

The rest of District Twelve is already waiting for us by the elevator. I have to admit that everyone looks amazing. Thalia is in a knee length, pink dress that makes her look childlike and incredibly sweet, while Collis and Karn look strong and commanding in crisp black suits. Effie and the mentors all look good as well. I notice that Katniss and Peeta are once again dressed like the fiery couple they're known as in the Capitol.

"Are you ready to go out there, kid?" Haymitch asks me as the elevator begins to move.

I give a shaky laugh at his question. "No, not really. I don't know how to be the person they're expecting." I shake my head a little. "I don't even know what they're expecting."

"Just remember what we practiced yesterday, and you'll do fine."

I think I must look pretty bad if Haymitch is actually trying to make me feel better.

The doors open on the main floor, and I'm met with the sight of forty-four other tributes getting their final preparations for the interview. The four of us are quickly ushered into the line of tributes waiting to take the stage. I can't see Zeppina or Barden in the group of people, though I think I might see the back of Barden's head looming above the crowd.. I'm placed in between Collis and Karn, meaning that I'm once again going second to last. I can only hope that the audience isn't as bored as the Gamemakers were.

Some Capitol employee signals from the front of the line, and we begin our walk on stage. The seats are arranged in an arc with two levels of platforms for the tributes to sit on. I'm extra cautious of my steps, praying that I don't fall as I make my way to my seat. I'm pretty sure the entire audience can see how fast my heart is beating as I take shaky steps, finally finding my way to the chair. I cross my ankles and sit up straight. I'm sure Effie is proud.

My nervousness doesn't ease at all when I get a good look at the audience. The City Circle is overflowing with people screaming enthusiastically at us. And there are camera crews everywhere. I'm reminded that everyone is Panem is going to see this. I wonder if my father will be watching. Of course he is; it's mandatory. I hope that I don't disappoint Mr. Fairbain or Mabel.

The sound of music fills the circle as Caesar Flickerman waltzes his way onto the stage. If I weren't so nervous, I'd laugh at how ridiculous he looks. His orange hair is even worse in person, as is his usual blue suit with the tiny light bulbs. He is without a doubt, a very strange man. Caesar gives a brief welcome and cheer for the Quarter Quell. He wastes no time in beginning the interviewing process, calling down the first girl from One. Her interview is over quickly, and I'm simultaneously relieved and worried by how short the two minutes seem. It's all the time I have to make an impression.

Mace is up after her. His angle seems to be a mixture of sly and charming. I think he comes off as repulsive, but all the women in the audience are practically melting into puddles with every word he speaks. The next few tributes are no different, each working their angle to perfection. I try to block out most of what they say so that I don't psyche myself out. That is until Caesar calls Cato up.

He saunters his way towards Caesar, looking formidable in his shiny silver jacket and black pants. Caesar gives a theatrical wince as the two shake hands, and Cato gives a good-natured laugh in return. I try not to scowl. He's a good actor.

"So, Cato, how are you enjoying the Capitol so far? Everything to your liking?"

Cato chuckles. "Of course, Caesar. Everything's been great. There's no place like the Capitol." The crowd goes wild for that.

Caesar gives an outrageous laugh. "Right you are, my boy. So let's get straight to the point. How prepared are you for these Games? We all saw your score of ten. I mean, what a number!"

His face instantly becomes arrogant, and the cold-blooded look fills his eyes once again. "I'm more than ready, Caesar. I came here to win, and that's what I'm going to do." The audience is lapping up every word he says. They can tell that he's brutal, just like they want.

"We all know your brother, Demetrius." More cheers. "Hoping to follow in his footsteps?"

Cato smirks, but I can tell he's a little irritated. He doesn't like being compared to anyone, and we both know where this conversation is heading. "Like I said Caesar, I'm here to win."

"I bet you are." Caesar's face takes on a serious, but conspiratorial look as he leans in closer to the blond boy. "Now, Cato, we all know the circumstances surrounding your brother's win. So, I have to ask you about a certain other tribute." He turns towards the audience.

My pulse is thrumming as the crowd cheers, and I can feel more than one camera trained on my face. I try not to fidget in my seat. They don't need to say my name out loud for everyone to know that Caesar means me. "How do you feel about going against her after what happened in your brother's Games?"

Cato's jaw clenches, but he speaks just as confidently as before. "The situation is definitely unique, Caesar, but it doesn't change anything. Nothing is going to get in my way. I'm vicious, and I'm ready to go."

The volume of the crowd is practically deafening as the buzzer sounds, and Caesar raises Cato's hand. "District Two's Cato!"

He stomps his way back to his seat, even though it's clear from the pitch of the audience that they loved him. He played his angle as the ruthless killing machine perfectly. I'm relieved that he doesn't look over at me because I have no doubt that it would display just how much he wants to kill me. I've just stolen some of his spotlight, and he is not pleased. The thought makes the knots in my stomach tighten to a painful degree.

I scan the audience for any familiar faces, and spot my team over on a landing to the left of me. When I look over, I can see Peeta send me a smile and Haymitch make a gesture telling me to take a deep breath. It helps me calm down a little, and I try to relax into my seat.

Districts Three, Four, and Five go as expected. Three is relatively unremarkable, but I have to resist the urge to glare when Fuse takes the stage. Everyone loves Four. They're Careers, and they have the Capitol eating out of the palm of their hand. Five is the same as Three: unmemorable. The heat rises to my cheeks as I get more and more nervous, and I have to look over at my team again.

Then come Districts Six, Seven, Eight, and Nine. Zeppina looks elegant in a light orange dress as she slowly makes her way towards the host. She plays coy the entire interview, and I think it goes over well with the audience. They've taken interest in her because she scored an eight. The crowd loves the boy from Seven who received a ten. He looks strong and confident, but he's got a boyish face, and he speaks with a slight lisp. Caesar makes a joke about how it's endearing, and the people agree. The twelve year olds from Eight are nervous and shy, but to Caesar's credit, his does everything in his power to make them look good. The Capitol fawns over Barden when he takes the stage, and even I can't help a small smile. He's boyish and charming, but his training score tells everyone knows that he's skilled too. He's almost like a humble version of Finnick Odair.

Districts Ten and Eleven follow but they too are nothing particularly noteworthy. Before I know it, Thalia is being called up, and I see her make her way over to Caesar. She looks terribly nervous, but he does his best to put her at ease. She's surprisingly charming, which I credit to Peeta's mentoring. The buzzer sounds, and Collis takes her place. My stomach is practically in my throat by now. He's quiet, but sincere as he answers all of Caesar's questions about the Games and the Capitol. I feel like I'm about to throw up as he makes his way back to his seat, and Caesar calls my name.

My mind is immediately flooded with Effie's advice: shy smile. Pull up the dress as I walk, but not above the ankles, never above the ankles. Shy smile. Don't trip. Head up. Eye contact. Shy smile.

I slowly make my way towards Caesar, trying my best not to trip down the stairs. I'm legitimately worried that I'm going to waste my two minutes just walking to him. Finally though, I reach him, taking his outstretched hand in mine.

"Well, don't you look positively ravishing? Doesn't she, folks?" Caesar's booming voice calls out to the audience. I think they cheer, but it sounds muted with all the buzzing in my ears.

I swallow dryly before putting on my "best smile" and speaking. "Thank you, Caesar. It's all thanks to my prep team and stylist. They're amazing."

"Yes, who could forget about them? They did such a wonderful job at the Tribute Parade. Could you explain that outfit to us? It was quite different from the fiery duo last year, but equally as lovely."

I laugh lightly. "Well you see, Caesar, fire and I don't exactly go well together." I hold up my still healing burn for the people to see. The crowd roars with laughter, like I've just said the funniest thing they've ever heard. I'm thankful they're so easy to amuse.

"So, Cinna decided to dress me up like a canary. They help the workers in the mines. If the miners hear them singing, they know the canary is alive and well. They know that the mines are safe." I don't go into their symbolism. I don't think Snow would be too fond of me talking about freedom.

"I guess it's safe to say you don't plan to stop singing anytime soon." Caesar laughs at his joke, and I fake my own.

"So, we all saw that you scored a eight in training. You want to let us in on some of your secrets?"

I pull another shy smile. "I can't go revealing all my cards just yet. I've got to save some surprises for the arena." The crowd oohs and ahs at that, seeming to like my secrecy. I don't know where this person is coming from, because I still feel like I'm about to vomit.

"Now, Briar," Caesar says, his voice suddenly becoming serious. "I'm going to have to ask you about your sister." He draws each word out before turning to direct a painful wince at the crowd. For their part, the audience gives a low murmur of acknowledgment. I take a deep breath and steel myself. I'm prepared for this. I can do this.

"I can't imagine what you must have felt after being reaped for the Hunger Games, only to find out that the brother of the winner of the 69th Games, and Amelia's former alliance member had volunteered. Can you tell us what was going through your mind?"

I bite my lip, and try to keep my eyes trained on Caesar. I don't really have to act for this part. I remember what Haymitch told me yesterday, and I try to keep the anger out of my voice.

"I was shocked to say the least. Amelia was more than my sister, she was my best friend, and I lost her. It's been hard. I never expected to be reaped under circumstances like these. But like Cato said earlier, it doesn't make a difference. If anything, it only makes me more determined to win."

I tack on a smirk for good measure and the crowd shouts cheers of encouragement at me. Caesar takes my hand between his and gives me a smile. "I'm sure it does, my dear. I'm sure it does." He turns us to face the crowd as he holds my hand up, and the buzzer sounds. "Remember, our sympathy and our hearts are with you. The lovely Briar Kinross, tribute from District Twelve!"

I shuffle my way back to my seat as the crowd cheers madly behind me. My energy is completely drained, and I struggle to swallow the lump of emotion in my throat, but I manage to stay upright in my chair. I barely listen to what's said during Karn's interview, but I'm sure he's as cocky as ever if the cheers are anything to go by. I hear the buzzer sound and see Karn make his way back up to his seat. The anthem begins to play, and I hobble my way off stage and towards the elevator. I can't wait to be out of these shoes. I don't know how I've managed to lose my district partners in the short walk, but the car I'm forced into is filled with tributes and mentors and escorts that I don't know.

My entire district is in the apartment by the time I step out of the elevator. They rush over, or stumble in Haymitch's case, to me to give their congratulations.

"You were brilliant, Briar. Simply brilliant," Effie raves. "Thank goodness you took my advice. And the smile!" she says with an exaggerated gasp. "I knew it would work out for the best."

I accept Effie's compliments with a grin. Even if I don't want to admit it, I know that she's right. My interview would have been a disaster without her.

"You did good, kid. The Capitol loves you," Haymitch tells me with a small smile. It's a real one, and it instantly makes me feel lighter. I haven't disappointed anyone.

I take a quick shower before joining everyone at the table for dinner. The mood is surprisingly light, everyone trying to enjoy this as much as they can before the reality of tomorrow hits. I make sure to eat as much as I can, there's no telling when I'll eat another meal like this. About halfway through dinner, Peeta turns on the recap of the interviews.

It's different watching them play out on screen, but it's just as easy to tell whom the Capitol favorites are. All of the Careers are incredibly popular, and it's clear from the cut of the interview that the Capitol thinks that one of them is going to come out as the winner.

Zeppina's interview doesn't go as well as I thought it had. The audience enjoys her, but I don't think she was memorable. Both boys from Seven appear to be fan favorites. I don't remember the one without the lisp, but the interview is cut in a way that makes him look like a serious contender.

Barden's interview goes even better than I originally thought. The audience is nearly beside themselves with how charming he is. I'm glad to be in alliance with him because I wouldn't stand a chance if I were against him. I recognize Nox from the day I had lunch with her. Her interview looks much better onscreen than it did from my seat. She's mysterious and beautiful, and the Capitol loves it. I add her to the list of people to watch out for in the arena. Unfortunately for both Thalia and Collis, their interviews are forgettable. They look good, and they speak well enough, but it's nothing special, and it won't get them many sponsors.

My dress looks incredible as I make my way to Caesar, the crowd sounding louder than I remember it. I realize just how right Haymitch and Effie had been about the Capitol already having an interest in me. I look confident on stage, and I commend myself on my acting. You can't even tell that I thought I was going to be sick all over Caesar. When he brings up Amelia, you can see all the people waiting with bated breath for my answer. When I give my response, the camera flashes to Cato. He is the picture of calm, but there's a dangerous look in his eye that tells the audience and me that he is more than ready for the challenge. The whole situation ensures that I will be remembered when tomorrow comes. I hope it's enough to get sponsors. I pay close attention to Karn's interview because I hadn't been able to concentrate after my own. I was right to assume that he was confident. The arrogance practically radiates from him as he jokes with Caesar. He isn't charming though; he's just powerful. The people love it.

When Caesar signs off, he leaves us with a parting message about the beginning of the Quell tomorrow. The light mood is easily swept out of the room as reality begins to sink in. Early tomorrow morning, the four of us will be shipped off into the arena where we will have to battle for our lives. I could be dead in less than twenty-four hours. The thought makes me go rigid in fear.

I only force my body to move from its position when we begin our final good-byes. It's strange to think that I may never see these people again. I don't want to get too emotional though. I need to stay strong.

Effie is the first to go. She looks about ready to cry, but her voice is steady as she speaks.

"It was truly a pleasure working with all of you. I wish you all the best of luck. And may the odds be ever in your favor."

I hate the phrase, but with the way Effie's voice cracks on the last word, telling me that she means every word she is saying, has me hoping that maybe the words will be true; that for once, the will be in my favor. Giving us each a hug, she quickly flees the room, leaving us to say our good-byes to our mentors.

Katniss is the first one to approach me, wishing me good luck and telling me to remember what she had said on the roof. I nod and tell her that I will. It would be impossible to forget the words.

Peeta comes next.

"Got any good advice for me?" I ask with a weak laugh.

He gives me a small smile. "Listen to Haymitch. He actually knows what he's doing most of the time." He pulls me into a quick hug.

"Thank you, Peeta. For everything," I say as we pull apart. I hope he knows just how thankful I am for that night on the train; how much his silent support means to me.

"Anytime, Briar." He wishes me luck before going over to Thalia.

I turn my gaze to Haymitch just as he finishes talking to Karn and begins making his way over to me.

I give him a tentative smile. "So this is it."

He nods. "For now."

"Any last minute pointers?" I try to keep my voice light, but it shakes a little as I say the words.

"Don't step off the podium early, unless you want to be blown to bits. And don't bother sticking around for the Bloodbath, nothing good ever comes of it. Take advantage of your speed, and get away from the others." I nod, eagerly taking in his words. "Try to get to your alliance as soon as possible, and find water. You'll have enough to worry about in the arena. You don't need that too."

When it's clear that he has nothing else to say, I give him another soft smile and extend my hand out to him. He stares at me, momentarily confused, before he takes my hand in his and gives it a quick shake.

"Thank you, Haymitch," I say, pouring as much sincerity into the words as I can. He's done what he could to help me get the best possible start in these Games, and even though he frustrates me, I couldn't be more grateful. He's given me a fighting chance. I pull my hand back from his and turn to go to bed.

"One more thing, kid," he says before I have the chance to leave. I turn back to face him. His eyes are serious, but there's a ghost of a smirk on his features. "Give 'em hell."

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

Next up, the Games! Getting more into the thick of things now.

WhiteEevee: We're definitely going to see more of Barden and Zeppina in the next few chapters. Really liking that you love Barden lol. Thanks for the great review!

musicinmymind12: Thanks (: I'm excited to post more

There it is, you guys. Hope you enjoyed the new chapter. Catch the next one next Friday!