Chapter 46 –– May The Odds Be In Your Favor 1

AN: First off, I want to thank everyone for your patience. I hope to get back to my regular update schedule. It has been a very difficult two months with family issues keeping me from my writing. I hope this chapter won't disappoint. My thanks to the following who alerted, favored and especially the people who left a review––kelmikmag, LACR, Cassie Sharpie, pumpkinking5, Nai1987, jroseley, J, mar071, and guests. Thank you for the taking the time to leave a review. This chapter contains MockingJay, Rye and Katniss' POVs and is rated R for strong language. THG belongs to Suzanne Collins and any mistakes found are mine.

MockingJay POV ––

I knew I had to do it. I debated to myself the reasons why but it was more that. I should have done the moment I had the chance.

"Rye," I called out to the young man who was busy making dinner for our men. Since his arrival, he proved to be useful––making meals and helping Prim gather necessary plant and herbs for our medicinal supplies. Prim proved to be just as useful or more so. She was my little healer who contributed to our small faction, dispensing herbs and assisting the medic. As for Rye, though he was useful and was able to stretch the flour we had stored. The men and women appreciated Rye's presence as he magically produced bread for our meals. Bread that was lacking and missed in our daily diet––it made everyone homesick missing their district and family.

However, I knew it was time for Rye to go home. "I need to speak to you." I had donned my MockingJay outfit––all black pants, shirt, boots and hood. My face was painted with black paint to conceal my identity––only Prim, Rye and the leader, Eisenmann of this faction knew who I was. I chuckled as Prim as times struggled to call me MockingJay or sir. To her I was her father, not the leader of a revolution. I wondered how Katniss felt when she found out my secret? Anyway, I digressed.

"You wanted to speak to me," Rye said. I looked at the young man who risked his life so he could volunteer to help rescue his brother and Katniss. He was young, but his eyes revealed his maturity and years of hardship––both emotional and physical. He was so much like Peet in a way.

If anything happened to Rye, Jimmy will never ever forgive me. It was bad enough that Peeta was reaped and Graham was dead. Losing both of them devastated Jimmy. He had lost so much already. Rye wiped his hands with a towel perched on his shoulder. He looked tired and weary. Late a night I'd hear his conversation with Prim, how he missed his home, his family––Delly, Tyler and his father. I hadn't meant to eavesdrop but happened upon them before heading to bed.

Flashback ––

"Rye," Prim started. "I know you love Peeta and wanted to help him but leaving Delly, your pregnant wife? What were you thinking?" Her tone wasn't scolding but inquisitive. She had a kind heart and gentle soul––ever patient and understanding. There was no recrimination as she spoke while she sat across him in front of a small heating unit they shared. Her back was towards me. Quiet and darkness descended upon us as the light hum from the unit and the intermittent sound of crickets chirred like music around us. It was eerily comforting.

Rye sighed. A big loud and long breath escaped through his mouth. The sun had set hours ago and it was pitch dark and cold. Moonlight filtered through the tree line. Visibility was difficult but we managed as best we could. The condensation that blew from his mouth displayed how cold it had gotten. "Prim, I wasn't really thinking," Rye admitted. "I don't know if you could understand." He stopped as he closed his eyes then opened them a few seconds later. He flexed his fingers, a habit I noticed that he and Peeta did when they were trying to control their emotions. "I guess you can say I just reacted."

"Do you think Peeta would be happy to know that you left Delly and your unborn child to help rescue him?" Rye looked ashamed and guilty. Then a second later he looked angry. "I'm not judging you. I just want to understand why you…abandoned your own family? She needs you more than ever."

Rye leaned down placing his forearms on his knees for support. "I know my dad has been trying to get you to go back home. You should go back home to Delly and Tyler."

"I can't," he flinched.

"Why not?"

"I feel guilty and ashamed," he confessed.

"What? Why? What can you be ashamed about?" she asked. Her tone was one of surprise and curiosity.

"I love my family––Dad, Graham and Peeta." I noticed that he didn't mention his mother. "But I…we never said the words, expressed how we felt about each other. I thought saying it to them would make me look weak, sappy. We never discussed our emotions with each other."

"I understand," Prim replied.

"No, how could you?" Rye returned. "You, your sister and parents…you may not had a lot in your life but you had each other. I had…never struggled to eat, to survive because I had the bakery to fall back on, to make a living, but even with that kind of advantage, I didn't have what you had. Support and ease to freely love my dad and brothers. My mom made expressing love look hard and painful. It was…difficult to love my mom. I learned the hard way how love can be used against you."

"The fact that you still love your despite how she treated, that takes a special person to over her shortcomings. I'm sorry."

"Don't be. You're right. There were hard lessons to learn but I think my brothers and I turned out okay," Rye smirked as he interjected a touch of banter in their conversation.

"You turned out more than okay, Rye," Prim complimented him. "Delly is lucky to have you."

"Falling in love with Delly was different. She was easy to love," Rye said with a lightness in his tone of a man in love. "She taught me to love. That love didn't weigh on checks and balances."

"Huh?" Prim said.

"With Delly, I could love her without having to owe her anything. No expectations or agenda," Rye explained. "We would fight and she'd still love me. She wouldn't use love to hold back as some kind of bargaining chip." My heart broke for Rye and for Jimmy and Peeta as well. Evelyn's love was conditional. It's no wonder all three boys didn't end up like her––bitter and vindictive. I knew Jimmy's life was hard living with Evelyn but to hear her treat her children, her boys like some commodity and to bargain emotions as bargaining chip like Rye mentioned. I counted my blessings for the relationship I have with Lily and my girls.

"I still don't understand––"

"Peeta, being the youngest had it worse than Graham and me. Mom treated him badly, he received the worst punishment." I recalled seeing Peeta at the bakery with a bruise on his arms and face. The bruise–– the shape of a rolling pin were long and narrow. It took weeks to heal. "I tried defending him once and…after that Peeta swore me to never get involved. And…I didn't. I let her abuse him." Rye choked from his words and swiped his face with the back of his hand.

"You were still a child too, Rye" Prim commiserated. I hated the woman but listening to this made me hated her more.

"But I didn't stop her even as I got older and bigger," he said his voice filled with pain and remorse. "I just let things…let it continue. I let her…hurt him."

"You have to forgive yourself, Rye," Prim stated. "Peeta grew bigger and stronger too, but he still let her abuse him. Peeta didn't fight back."

"Peeta has always been more open, sensitive and gentle. He was…the best of us. We never really fought much. Don't get me wrong, he was no angel and had a temper of his own when he was pushed too far. Like family we know how to push each other's buttons. Peeta was…is the best brother any guy would be lucky to have."

"You're not so bad yourself. I can tell Peeta admired and loved both you and Graham. You're good a guy too. I mean you really got yourself a really good wife now," Prim complimented him. "I mean Delly is sweet and kind. She wouldn't have fallen in love with you if she didn't think you were worth it."

He snorted. "I got lucky. Delly loved me with warts and all. Even with my temper." He sighed as he twisted the ring on his left finger. "She saw something in me I didn't even see myself."

"But…why did you leave, Rye? You were done with the lottery. Even if you were eligible I doubt Peeta would have let you volunteer. He would have kicked your ass had you done so." Rye laughed a short burst of joy.

"No, that little squirt couldn't even if he tried. I'm at least 20 lbs heavier and can beat him in wrestling."

"I don't know, Rye," she reminded him. "You've seen his talent performance. I think he can." Having seen and heard of Peeta's performance I was more than impressed. With Katniss, I knew she would do well but Peeta surprised me. What he did with the bells not only took great upper body strength but focus and stamina as well.

"Maybe," he chortled back. After a few seconds he sighed. "I don't think I have ever seen my dad like….when Peeta was whipped, tortured and taken to the Capitol. Something in him broke. When Graham…passed way, my dad was devastated. I knew my father was not…a strong man, but I loved him. And when Peeta volunteered, something in him died. He hasn't been the same like my dad died too. He doesn't…"

"You can't be saying that he loved Peeta more––" Prim suggested.

"No," he interjected before she could continue. "I know our dad loved us even when he couldn't show or say it. He tried to keep peace at the worst times in our lives. I wished he was…more…" He stopped as he almost revealed his disappointment or shame. Even as a father who failed to protect his sons from their own mother, Rye defended and loved him.

"So you volunteering to join the rebellion and abandon Delly was because…"

"I don't…my family is broken and incomplete without Graham and Peeta. He was the youngest but I looked to him for motivation, inspiration and hope to be a better man. He gave me hope––that despite mother abusing him, he never became bitter, angry and resentful." Unlike Gale Hawthorne who grew up without a father but had a mother and siblings who loved him but grew up to be angry and hateful. "I want…to bring Peeta home for my dad because without him, my dad will be lost forever. Even though he has a grandson and another grandchild on the way, it's not the same. I'd lose him too."

Ah, it made sense why he left his wife and newborn child but he took a big risk, one that could cost him his own life. "So when MockingJay announced and told me and my dad his plans to rescue Peeta and Katniss. It was all I could think of. He's my brother…my dad… I could tell he wanted to help too but he had responsibilities."

"Like you did, Rye," Prim reminded him once again. "And what if…Peeta wasn't rescued? What if something happened to the both of you? How do you think your dad will feel if something happened to you both?" Rye looked sheepish.

"I didn't even think that," he began. "I wanted to help and rescue Peeta, but Jay won't let me." He sighed. "But at least I'll be here if…when it happens and not be waiting back in District 12. I wanted to be the one to bring Peeta home for my dad."

End of Flashback ––

I understood and couldn't blame Rye for wanting to be present when I rescue my daughter and Peeta from the arena. I just didn't appreciate him sneaking and leaving his family without telling them. They must be sick with worry. There were so many lives I was already risking to save Peeta and Katniss. I didn't want Rye to be one of them.

And when we rescue Peeta and Katniss from the arena, there will be repercussion for my actions. Snow will seek retribution and the people who will suffer will be District 12. Rye had to go back and be with his family. He was needed in 12 to help evacuate the district when the occasion arises. I know it will happen.

"I really appreciate all you've done," I said. "You've been an asset in this camp but I think it's time that you went home."

"What? Why?" He looked stunned and a bit angry.

"You are not a fighter. You haven't been trained––"

"Well, neither has Prim but I suspect you're not sending her back home," he said with derision.

"Well, first off, people think Prim is dead," I reminded him. "She is also working as a medic. And you…" I chose my words carefully. "I don't want anything to happen to you. Your father will never forgive me if …"

"I want to be here when you rescue Peeta." He had the intelligence to realize that he couldn't participate in the rescue mission. I gave him that, but him being here was dangerous for him. If we were caught in a crossfire or surprise attack he would be helpless and vulnerable. I knew he could take care of himself but in a stressful situation, you never know how you'll act. I was basically afraid for him he had no training. He was a liability.

"You don't belong here," I said in firm tone. "You belong at home with your family, taking care of Delly and your unborn child."

"But––"

"I am sending you home tomorrow morning," I informed him. A slew of emotions crossed his face anguish, loss and fury. "This camp will be shut down and closed. I am moving our location to another district."

"Let me go with you," he begged. His anguished face displayed tracks of tears wetting his cheeks. "I want to be…I…please let me stay." I almost caved to his request. But I knew I had to stand my ground.

"I am sending my team to the Capitol. Prim will be sent to the new campsite, the rendezvous point after the rescue. She is needed and you are not. You will be going home."

"Why are you doing this?"

"Because there's a man in District 12 who had already lost a son. Who was certain that he was going to lose another when his youngest bravely volunteered to make sure a young girl was going home or at least attempt to." I never doubted Peeta's determination and resolve to sacrifice his life for Prim, but he was against trained tributes. Children born to be killers. He was not equipped or trained to take a life. The odds of Peeta and Prim surviving were slim to none, but with Katniss; she had a chance to come home. She was a hunter with a few years of survival skills. Peeta was a baker. He could fight with his wrestling experience but that was not enough against knives, spear and a killer's instinct for survival and death. I didn't want his blood on my hands as Graham had already been spilt.

"I will not discuss this anymore. You are going home tomorrow," I ordered and decreed. I felt bad for Rye but I was saving his life and his father's as well. I made no room for debate as I made my decision.

My sleep was troubled and unrestful as I tossed and turned most of the night. By the break of dawn, I was wired and exhausted at the same time. By body ached but my mind was alert. "Sir, you have a message from Wingate," Eisenman announced through my tent. Prim was fast asleep on the bunk next to me. I looked at my little girl who was no longer the child I raised and remembered. Her experienced during the lottery and train changed her. She grew up so fast as if it was over night. I hated that her childhood was marred by memories of starvation and cold winter nights that caused us to sleep in the living room to share heat from the only of warmth––the fireplace. As child Prim thought it was camping out in the woods. But as she grew older she saw the reality of life in the Seam. That being born part Seam, there were already strikes against her. But even with poor conditions and disadvantages she never lost faith and hope for a better future. I kissed her forehead and greeted the day with anticipation, excitement and fear.

"This is Jay," I said over a small transmitter.

"Hello, Jay," a familiar voice blared from the receiver. The transmission was barely audible but loud and clear.

"Why are you breaking protocol, Antoine?" I asked with trepidation and annoyance. Antoine Wingate was a Capitol citizen whose family joined the rebellion decades ago. As both Desdemonna, his wife's family were long descendants of the Capitol, they hated Snow and his regime––the creation of the Hunger Games that was kept alive for 74 years to keep the district in check and the Capitol citizens wealthy. Through decades they lost family and friends through the games and from Snow's greed and tyranny. We were lucky to have as our allies. They were good friends with Haymitch whom they supported during his arena games.

There were a small group of Capitol citizen that joined our cause. Antoine and Desi were my most loyal friend and support. "I'm sorry, Jay but I got a call from Haymitch very early this morning," he announced. My heart stopped for a moment. 'Haymitch, why would he be calling Antoine at such an early hour.' I gasped so loud he heard me. "Don't be alarmed. Katniss and Peeta are fine." I blew a breath through my mouth out of relief.

"Then what's the problem?" I inquired. "I know you wouldn't be calling me at such great risk."

"We have a problem," he sighed. "This problem is one you're acquainted with."

"What is it? Don't be so cryptic."

"This problem is about 6' 2" dark hair and gray eyes. You know him. He's one of yours."

"What? Wait a second," I interrupted him as I gathered my thoughts. "What are you talking about?" Antoine proceeded to tell me that Gale Hawthorne was seen and caught sneaking into the Capitol. But not only that, he was there to do harm to Peeta. Then he dropped a bigger bomb––he was sent to discover the identity of the MockingJay per Coin's orders. My heart stopped and stomach plummeted. I couldn't believe it.

"Where is he now?" I said through clenched teeth, heat and anger seeping though my skin. My mind flashed images of Gale's attempt to hurt Peeta. And to hurt me even though he didn't know I was the MockingJay. Gale's actions reeked of betrayal and distrust.

"He's being sent to you, Jay," Antoine said. "Haymitch and I barely got him out of the city without any detection. He should be half way there."

"No reroute him to our rendezvous point," I instructed. Antoine hesitated.

"Are you sure?" he asked.

"Positive," I stated. " I don't have to time to meet up with him. Who's on watch?" Haymitch was able to procure two men to watch over Gale while I attempted with my plans to rescue Peeta and Katniss during the arena opening ceremony. My plans were complicated and dangerous for the members of the teams involved. I didn't need the distraction or aggravation of facing my old friend's son who had betrayed the MockingJay and in extension––me. I had to keep my anger in check and focus on my objective and first priority––Peeta and Katniss. I trusted my men to guard and watch Gale but with his betrayal I was filled his doubt and uncertainty. If the son of my old friend could betray the MockingJay, who else was involved to sabotage me? Who else was hiding in the ranks and working for Coin and District 13?

With a heavy heart I let the news sink in my mind. It was just so incredible after everything I had done for him and his family. Now I had the task of…the burden of my decision was heavy and heartbreaking.

An hour later, Rye appeared. He appeared tired and worn as his eyes were puffy and drawn. The men and women around us were packing up the campsite making sure there wasn't any evidence of us to be left behind. The ground was resurfaced with leaves, debris and earth giving it a natural setting––untouched by man. I noticed the look on his face as he watched Prim and her new friends as they prepared to travel to our new destination. She was speaking to both of them with a firma and determined look on her young face. I wondered what she was telling them when an idea struck me.

"Good morning, Rye," I greeted him.

"Sir," he said in a hollow and tired tone.

"I have a change of plans. You're not going home yet," I told him. His eye popped from his sockets filled with hope. "I have an assignment for you. One I know you will accomplish because you are the only person I can trust right now."

"What is it, Jay?" he asked in an eager tone and his spirits lifted. "I'll do the best I can to not disappoint you for whatever you need me to do." He smiled as I smiled back in return because I knew that with this assignment, he would not fail Peeta and me.

Rye POV ––

My stomach felt like there were a million butterflies fluttering with excitement. I was scared and nervous. To my relief, Jay had changed his mind about sending me home. He actually asked me to or rather assigned me to a task that I can was entrusted with. The camp was broken down and all equipment and supplies were packed. Jay said we needed to travel and reach an old airfield that was abandoned years ago. There, we would board a hovercraft that waited for us. The ship was an older version at least a decade old. I recognized it as it flew over us. I swallowed a ball of saliva in my throat as I remembered my first ride while I impersonated one of Jay's rebel soldier. I was sick to my stomach from the flight; throwing up everything I had eaten that day. It was not a pleasant memory. But, I stamped down my anxiety remembering that I was not going home yet.

"What's going on, Rye?" Prim asked. "You're jumpy. You look like I don't know…excited? You're excited about going home?"

As soon as my conversation ended with Jay the night before, Prim confronted me. I was mad, furious at Jay her father for sending me home. She actually had to calm me down. But with time, I did and I was resigned to going home. I miss dad, Delly and Tyler. I miss the bakery and my friends. I was resolved in going home. But by some stroke of luck I wasn't.

"Jay said that I'm going with you guys," I told Prim. "He…he gave me an assignment."

"Oh, okay. An assignment? What kind of an assignment?" A smile appeared on her face. She was happy for me.

"I don't know because he won't tell me until we reach the new base camp," I said. "But he did say that I was to help you while were on their mission." I didn't reveal that I was also tasked to guard and watch his daughter, Prim. He advised me not to tell her in case he offended her.

"What do you mean?" she inquired.

"I'm not sure but you do know that…" I leaned down to her level to make sure no one was listening. "…whatever it is he wants to me do is very important. Then once my duty is done, I am being sent home."

"And you agreed, I mean about being sent home after you fulfill your duty?" she returned. "Da…Jay wouldn't have changed his mind that suddenly. I wonder what he wants you to do?"

"I really don't have much of a choice now. And, I though about it, I am really feel out of place. As for my assignment, I'll find out when we get to the new camp." I realized that Jay was right, I should return home. And if he was right about Snow, District 12 was in danger once Peeta and Katniss were rescued. I had to go home and protect my family. I don't regret sneaking away. The past couple of days made me realize what volunteering for the rebellion entailed––the consequences and repercussions of joining the rebellion. I'm not a soldier or killer but I would defend my family with my life.

I'm not fighter or quitter, but I do have a place in the rebellion whether it was with Jay and his men or back home. This experience I will never forget because I won't wonder or imagine what it would have been like. I just know my place now.

Two hours later after a short hike and an hour flight, we were dropped off at an open field. "Everyone out now," Jay ordered as he exited the hovercraft. "We have ten minutes before peacekeeper ships fly over this area." My stomach felt raw, my forehead wet from perspiration and my hands shook as I ran out the ship. I stuck close to Prim who was flanked by her new friends, Shane and Maddy. I noticed that a few men wore black while the others wore dark green. Their faces were painted black underneath their hood to disguise their identity. On their hips were two guns attached to a holster and a knife sheathed on their legs. On their back were small compact duffel bags. They all looked imposing. I envied them. I almost wished I were going with them.

A hundred yards later, we reached a grove of trees that hide us from any drones or flying crafts scouting the area. When we stopped, my stomach lurched. "Here Rye." Prim extended her hand to me with a few sprigs of leaves. "You look kinda pale. Chew on this for a while, you'll feel better." I grabbed the small plants from her hand expecting it suspiciously. Not that Prim would harm me but the leaves didn't look appetizing and the though chewing on a bunch of leaves wasn't appealing as my stomach lurched once again.

"What is it?" I said as I placed them under my nose to smell. The scent alone eased my queasiness so I immediately shoved them into my mouth.

"They're mint leaves." A few seconds later, I felt relief.

Soon as the craft left our group separated.

"This is where we part," Jay announced. "Before I leave, I just want to say watch my little girl. I am placing her life in your hands. Keep her safe, keep your head down."

"Yes, sir,' I replied. Prim grew on me. After Peeta and Katniss got together, Prim became like a little sister I never knew I wanted. I realized why my mother longed for a daughter and resented Peeta's existence. She was sweet and gentle. Had I had a sister would our lives be different? Would I be different? However, I wouldn't trade Peeta for anything––not even for a sister like Prim.

"So are you going to tell me the rest of my assignment," I asked eagerness and excitement in my voice.

"My men will lead you to our camp," he said. "Once you get there you will be given your orders." He was so mysterious he made me more anxious and curious as ever. "Rye, what I'm about to order you to do is…very important for me. There is someone there I need you to guard, watch him and make sure he is unharmed. Please refrain from…No matter what, please remember Peeta. He is your priority, nothing else should matter."

"Sir?"

"Just…keep that in mind, once you get your orders," he continued. "I trust you to do what's right." He placed a hand––his real hand on my shoulder. "There so much going on right now and I wish I had the time to explain it to you, but please know this. You are the only one I trust right now. I have complete faith in you to do what I ask."

We took a long hike and finally reached our destination. That by the time we stopped it was lunchtime. The games had already began––the mission in progress. I recalled every detail Jay had planned, the people involved and the main objective––get Peeta and Katniss out of the arena. There were so many things that could go wrong. I was anxious and scared for my little brother because one part of the mission I knew he would not agree to. I just hoped that he remember his priority to keep Katniss alive. I knew for a fact he would die for her. He loved her that much that he would sacrifice his life for her just as he would have for Prim.

The long hike to the new camp was hard and agonizing as tried to concentrate and keep my mind away from the arena. 'Did they succeed in removing Katniss and Peeta from the arena? Were Peeta and Katniss safe? Where are they now? What if Jay's plans failed.'

I mentally groaned in my head. With the thoughts of the rescue plans buzzing in my head, I also wondered about my task. Why didn't Jay just tell me and not left me hanging?

A few minutes later, we arrived. The camp was…sparse and well hidden inside a grove of trees so tall, you couldn't see the sun or sky. My stomach grumbled. I didn't have much of an appetite during breakfast so I only had a piece of bread and coffee. I was anticipating going home and was preparing myself for the ride back to 12. Now I'm starving, tired and anxious. My hands ached to knead bread, my nose missing the smell of yeast and flour––I missed the bakery smells and sounds. Hopefully, there was flour and yeast in the camp so I can busy myself as I wait for…

"Are you Rye Mellark?" a tall woman with blond hair pulled back approached me. She looked hard and stern, a scowl on her face reminding me of Katniss. I nodded my head.
"Come with me." She gestured her head behind her to follow.

I looked at Prim who stood beside me. "Can I bring her with me?" I pointed to Prim. The female nodded her head. "I was told that you have access to this camp to do as you please, per Jay's orders. So she can come if you want her to." Relieved, I placed a hand on Prim's elbow as I followed the woman to a tent.

Inside the tent was a small table with a radio. Another table filled with large map of Panem and the districts. One large parchment was a map of a district I knew didn't exist but rumored to be active with survivors from the last rebellion––District 13.

"Sir, Rye Mellark and Prim Everdeen," the woman announced to another woman then excited the tent.

"Rye, Prim." She extended her hand. "I'm Commander Carla Reeves from District 3. I hope your travel was not too arduous." I shook her hand. "You're probably wondering why Jay didn't tell you the full details of your assignment. At first I was puzzled until he explained to me the complications or rather history of your charge. Why he was assigned to you." I was confused. The more she spoke, the more confusion settled in my mind. 'Charge? He? Who was he?'

"I don't understand," I admitted.

"Sorry, I guess I should just take you to him and I think you'll understand," she sighed. "But before we go, I was told to tell you that you are to be in alert at all times. He is your responsibility and Jay said and I quote 'do not lay a finger on him,' " Yep, my poor mind was utterly confused more than ever. 'Did Jay assign me to babysit? Really? Who and why? Why would I…'

"We're waiting for a transport to deliver back our prisoner to his associates," she finalized. "Then you will return to District 12 and wait for further instructions. And you, Ms. Everdeen. Are to stay away from him. The MockingJay's instructions and orders are very clear, soldier. You are not to be alone with him ever unless Mellark is with you, understand?"

Prim looked surprised and puzzled. "Yes, ma'am," she replied.

We walked out of one tent and headed towards a group of trees away from the camp. After a few minutes later, Commander Reeves stopped ahead of us and pointed to a very large tree. The trunk was at least six feet wide in diameter. There was a man sitting on the ground, his hands, legs and waist shackled together and tethered to wide tree trunk. My prisoner had his head down not revealing his face. 'Great, I was right. Jay assigned me to babysit––' The man raised his head as realized he had company.

"What the fuck?" I screamed between clenched teeth while Prim gasped besides me. "No fucking way. Hawthorne? I thought he was dead?" Gale Hawthorne smirked back. I wanted the smirk off his face the kick his ass. Then I would––

"Gale," Prim said her voice low and soft. A hand covered her mouth. "You're alive." I couldn't believe my eyes and she couldn't either by the way she was looking at him like he was a ghost.

"Remember Jay's orders, Rye. You can't touch him," Reeves reminded me before she departed. Her words barely registered in my head. My hands formed into fists. Rage filled me as I remembered Gale's treatment of Peeta. The fury I felt when I learned he tried to frame Peeta for Ivan's death.

"Rye," Prim said my name firm and loud. I felt her hand on my elbow as it tracked down my forearm to my clenched hand. Her delicate small fingers grazed my knuckles. I looked down to her face anxious and scared. "Rye?" Her small hands bracketed my fist like she was holding something fragile. I was close to…

"Remember what Jay said, think of Peeta." I did. I thought of my brother who was tortured by Cray. I thought of Peeta escorted by Peacekeepers because of Gale's jealousy and accusations. I thought of him as he volunteered to help Prim. The images didn't help because everything returned to Gale. All the things that happened to him were because of the guy who was right in front of me.

"And remember there a little boy waiting for you back home who needs a dad. Don't do something you'll regret. Peeta wouldn't want you to. He'd want you to go home to Delly, Tyler and your dad."

I took three deep breaths even as my eyes were transfixed to Hawthorne's face. He smiled––his lips in a thin line condescending, daring me. "What are you doing with Rye, Prim?"

"Hello, Gale," she greeted him. "I'm really glad to see you." She approached him. Gale tired to stand up but the shackles prevented him. "I cried when dad told me you were dead." Gale's smug face faltered.

"Sorry, Prim," he responded with shame.

"Don't be sorry, Gale. I want to why you are alive? Where have you been while your family have been grieving for you?" For a few moments, he explained––how MockingJay asked him to find District 13. How he was living inside an underground bunker after all this time while his family struggled to survive. I shook my head in disbelief. He continued to tell his story to Prim; and that all I could think of was Peeta and Katniss. The MockingJay and his team risking their lives to save them from the arena. I didn't want to spend any time or thoughts of Gale Hawthorne. Why did Jay order me to watch over him, keep him from harm when all he's ever done was put my family in danger? My rage so strong I never questioned why he was a prisoner and tied to a tree like a criminal.

All I knew was that I didn't understand the injustice and unfairness that Gale was still alive and my brother Graham was dead and Peeta in the Capitol fighting for his life and this mother fuc…

"How could you?" Prim's shout disrupted my angry haze. 'Huh, what happened?' "Why would you even agree let alone do that? Why?" Prim was upset her face twisted with anger.

"I'm a soldier, part of the resistance against the Capitol."

"But taking orders from District 13, President Coin. Where is your loyalty? What happened?"

"I don't need or expect you to understand what I was going through when I was at 13. I left so I can fight against the Capitol."

"But to turn your back on the MockingJay and…try to hurt Peeta––"

"What?" My ears deceived me. "Hurt Peeta?" Prim must have forgotten I was behind her. She turned her head her eye filled with disgust and anger.

"What the hell are you two talking about?"

"Gale was sent by Coin, Thirteen's president and leader to…to incapacitate Peeta before entering the arena." I was stunned for a few seconds. Her words swirled in my head because I swore I heard her say that Hawthorne was ordered to hurt Peeta somehow.

"Incapacitate? How?" I said as air blew from my nostrils. Then Gale explained how he was to use a needle to weaken him and to discover the identity of the MockingJay. Before he could continue I headed towards him my fists clenched together ready to beat the shit out of him. However, Prim stood between Hawthorne and me like barrier her hands raised in front of her. I could easily shove her aside but I didn't want to hurt her.

"Rye, stop, Please?" she begged.

"Give me on good reason, Prim. One good reason why I shouldn't beat shit out of him," I demanded.

"You're a man of your word, Rye," she reminded me. "You're good like Peeta. You wouldn't break your word to MockingJay."

"I'm not," I said as took a step forward. Prim grabbed my right hand with both of her tiny ones.

"You are," she said.

"Let him go, Prim," Gale baited me. "I can beat him even with my hands bound together." I grinded my teeth heat and rage filled me as I've never felt before.

"Rye, Peeta told me that he was lucky to have you for a brother. He looked up to you and Graham. He worshiped both of you––how you have a temper like a volcano." She smiled at her description of my temper, then continued. "…but he said you could never hurt anyone intentionally. That you are not a bully who would take advantage of someone." She eyed his shackles. I was dumbstruck. Peeta looked up to me––the brother who failed to protect him from our mother and assholes like Gale Hawthorne. My anger subsided enough that the anger I felt didn't wholly consume me. "Besides, don't you think it should be Peeta to…?"

She paused, a smirk on her face as she turned back to Gale. "He isn't really worth it." I begged to disagree but she was right that Peeta should be the one to beat the shit out of Hawthorne. And if luck were on our side today, he would have that opportunity though I doubt he would do it. Peeta was too kind hearted and forgiving.

My heart calmed as I took a deep cleansing breath. I had a job to do and I wasn't going to disappoint Jay though I would have had it not been for Prim. I would have broken my promise. "So what now, Mellark? Going to stare at each other all day?" Gale snickered. "When did you start taking order from a little girl?"

"No, I'm here to deliver you to your home," I answered him. His eyes grew wide.

"I can't go back to District 12," he said in a nervous tone. "The peacekeepers will want to know where I've been."

"Who said about District 12? My orders were to send you back to where you came from. I'm delivering back to District 13." He sighed in relief. "I don't understand why you look so relieved. I mean, what are you going to tell President Coin when you get back? That you failed to get Peeta and find the identity of the MockingJay?"

Gale's face dropped. His smirk replaced with embarrassment then anger. "Well, I'd rather be back there then be sent back to 12. Who wants to go back to that hellhole and a bunch of spineless cowards?"

"How can you say that, Gale? Your family still lives in 12?" Prim asked shock and disbelief on her face. "That was your home."

"What? I didn't mean––" I heard a slap resonant in the air. Gale was stunned and embarrassed.

"You're an…asshole, Gale." He gasped in horror. "I loved you like an older brother. I looked up to you for taking care of your family who you abandoned so you can be soldier for District 13 and President Coin. You aligned yourself with strangers, betraying MockingJay. I…I hate you." She turned around and walked away.

"Prim, wait. I didn't mean it," he started.

"You know, at least now I know why Katniss chose my brother, Peeta over you," I said with smug look on my face. This was going to be fun. I couldn't physically hurt Hawthorne because I promised Jay and Prim that I wouldn't, but that didn't mean I could hurt in him other ways. My way would hurt more than any punch or slap on the face. Hawthorne was big and muscular but his mind was small and weak, his ego even more fragile.

"What are you looking at?" Gale sneered.

"Nothing, absolutely nothing," I returned. I looked around and found a large boulder to sit on. Hm…where do I begin to torture Hawthorne? "You know, we never really got acquainted you being Seam and all."

"Well, you're Merchant scum. Why would we?" he snickered.

"Well, I mean. Katniss told me that she sees you like a brother. And well, you know she is dating my brother. We're almost like…family."

"Family? Never. Katniss would never marry," Gale spat. "She told me so herself."

"Oh how little you know Katniss," I began. "Doesn't matter I think I should tell you a little story about a boy of five years old whose name was Peeta, who saw a girl in school sing a song in her classroom. How he had a crush on her since that day––"

"Shut up Mellark." Gale flinched.

"How Peeta remembered that Katniss Everdeen wore a plaid dress and her hair in two braids…"

"I said stop talking." Hawthorne tried to place his hands over his ears but the shackles were too short. I chortled and continued.

"That when she sang even the birds stopped to hear her sing."

Katniss POV ––

After Peeta left I left anxious and scared. I knew that I would see him again once we entered the arena but being separated from him even for a short amount of time. It made me realize how much I depended on him; his presence calmed me. How I felt whenever I was with him––safe and loved. I never expected to feel that way with anyone. But he was Peeta and I knew he was like no other boy I have ever known. I could barely contain my anxiety as I longed to be with him.

"Hey, Girl on Fire." Cinna's voice interrupted my thoughts as he led me to the launching pad. Wordlessly, he fastened my MockingJay pin onto my shirt underneath my light jacket. "This is for luck. I'll see you later." I had almost forgotten the pin Madge gave before I came to the Capitol. It gave me some sense of comfort––a sense of home and my family who I missed. Who knew that a little piece of metal could mean so much?

Cinna had a small smile on his face with a twinkle in his eyes like he was holding back a secret he was dying to tell me. His demeanor puzzled me because I knew I'd never see him again. So I wrapped both arms around his neck.

"Thank you, Cinna," I said as I held him tight. "Thank you everything you've done for Peeta and me. I will never forget you." My throat ached as I held back a sob. 'This was it.' Cinna was the last person I will see before entering the arena. I wished Haymitch was here but seeing him would probably bring to tears and the last thing I needed was for Peeta to see me distress once we reunited. I shook my head. Fear and sadness were replaced by anger. I wouldn't let the Capitol catch me at weak moment to be displayed for all of Panem to see.

I stepped onto the platform taking notice of my surrounding. The room was small with the pad dead center. Two peacekeepers flanked the entrance with rifle on hand. I was startled as a circular glass tube enclosed around me. For a moment I panicked and wondered if I was going to lose air and suffocate, but a whirring sound of air filtered into the chamber. It was cold and stale.

Cinna raised his arm in the air, three fingers pointing upward like a salute. I have never seen that before and wondered if it was a special Capitol signal for goodbye. As I ascended upwards he flashed me a smile then turned around quickly and with a flick of his wrist he pointed to the peacekeepers first one then the other. I didn't understand until one fell onto his knees. Before I disappeared into the ceiling I managed to see slim silver objects lodged onto the peacekeepers chests.

A few seconds later, the second fell onto the ground. "Cinna? Cinna," I shouted. I was suddenly enshrouded in darkness. My breath was uneven and harsh. I didn't know how long the tube ascended but the next thing I knew I was blinded by light surrounding me fast that I lost focus. My ears were stuffed then popped as the platform stopped. It took a few seconds before I could open my eyes squinting as the harsh sunlight nearly blinded me. I smell the air thick with the scent of…trees and foliage. I almost cried in relief as my lungs were filled with the aroma that I thought I would never smell again––it smelled like home.

Once I regained my equilibrium I searched for Peeta. To my left at six platforms away, I could tell Peeta was struggling to regain his senses as he raised a hand to shield his eyes from the sun. "Peeta, Peeta. Open your eyes baby. Look at me." I said to myself wishing he heard me.

"Tributes, welcome to the 74th Hunger Games," Claudius Templesmith announced his voice piercing my eardrums. "May the odds be in your favor."

As if Peeta heard me, he opened his eyes then fell onto mine. A weight in my chest lifted as he smiled at me. With his hands he gestured pointing to his chest and towards me telling me that he was running to my direction once the signal bell rang. I nodded. I was so focused on Peeta that I didn't see the glare on Clove's face as she stared at me venom in her eyes. Nor did I noticed Cato's eyes transfixed on Peeta his mouth a thin line as he bounced on the balls of his feet. A clock read ten seconds counting down to nine, eight, seven, etc.

As the time ran out a loud sound rang in the air. I quickly stepped off and watched as Peeta ran towards me when a loud sonic boom exploded in the air. I didn't have the sense to see what it was because the next thing I knew something invisible hit me hard across my chest sending me backwards.

I closed my eyes right as Peeta was lifted off the ground flying backwards as well. My feet left the ground my body weightless. Seconds later, I landed on the grassy floor on my back with a loud thud. As soon the pain on my back eased, I opened my eyes and propped my elbows on the ground. I took a moment to catch my breath as I raised myself off the ground wincing as pain radiate across my back.

Before me was the cornucopia blown to pieces as all the weapons were scattered and destroyed. There was nothing left. Slowly a few tributes sat up. My thoughts were of Peeta as I looked for him praying that he was all right. But before I started to look, the platform that I ascended from disappeared into the ground and a few seconds later a figure appeared all dressed in forest green with a hood covering his head––a rifle held by both hands. "Oh my god," I said to myself. I recognized the outfit––signature attire of the rebellion, the MockingJay's rebels but in another color. Have they had infiltrated the arena? Another figure appeared at the platform next to me. She was shorter than the first one and also held a rifle in her hand.

"What's going on?" the male tribute from District 4 screamed.

"Katniss," Peeta screamed. "Look out." I turned my head just as Clove rammed into me causing us to land on the ground. She was tiny girl but because she had years of training and had an advantage over me. But little did she realize that I too had an advantage. My boyfriend was a wrestler back home in District 12 and during our two weeks of training he taught me a few moves to defend myself in situations like this.

Because of our height difference, I had Clove on the ground her face kissing the grass as I straddled her back and her arms bent backwards. "Get off of me." Her words muffled on the floor. She turned her head. "Cato, Cato!"

"You think I'm going to let you go?" I said. 'As if.' I was so focused on Clove that I didn't see the green-attired male figure approached me.

"Katniss, let her go." I was stunned because the stranger in green knew my name. "Let her go and let's get you and Peeta out of here."

Once he mentioned Peeta's name I refocused my thoughts. "Where is he?" the other figure asked as she stood right beside her companion. "We need to go. The opening will be down for only an hour. We only have 5 minutes to vacate this area." 'Opening?'

The male figure suddenly lurched forward as Peeta tackled him from behind. "Peeta, stop." The male figure said as he grappled him to the ground. "Peeta, wait. I'm here to help you." He was taller and bigger but Peeta managed to grab him by waist and slam him downward like a sack of flour.

Meanwhile I was distracted, Clove bucked sideways pulling me off of her. She had gotten onto her feet and was about to attack me again when the female yelled. "Stop, don't move unless you want me to put a hole in your head." Clove stopped and turned to her.

"Who the fuck are you? What's going on?" she screamed as her eyes scanned around obviously looking for Cato and her fellow tributes.

"I don't have time for this," the female said. She pointed her rifle on the floor and fired a shot near Clove's feet. She jumped in surprised and raised her hands. "I'm not here for you. So if you want to live, run. Run away as fast as you can." She fired warning another shot. Clove didn't argue and ran.

"Don't move," Peeta said. He had a rifle in his hand and aimed towards the female. Her partner was on the floor on his knees rubbing his head. "I'll shoot if I have to. Drop your gun." The female did what she was told. "Katniss, come here." I ran towards him.

"Peeta!" I cried in relief. The other tributes around us all started to move but remained on the ground. I guess the concussion from the blast still had them dazed and confused.

"Are you hurt?" Peeta asked as he pointed the rifle to the male and female. "Don't move."

"I'm okay, Peeta. I ache a little from landing on the hard ground but I'm fine," I assured him as I placed my hand on his back. He was trembling.

"Peeta," the male started as he rose to his feet. "Listen, we're here to rescue you. My name is––"

"I don't believe you," Peeta returned.

"Peeta?" I said his name, stunned and worried by his reaction. They were rebel soldier from MockingJay's army. Why was he––?

"The last time a person showed up dressed like you tried to poison me," he explained. 'Oh, yeah. That happened.' Gale betrayed MockingJay just so he could play soldier for Coin. "How do I know you're not here to hurt Katniss and me? That this is a trick, a game in the arena. I don't know who you belong to?"

"We blew up the Cornucopia to rescue you––"

"So what? You still haven't convinced me…who you're loyal to." He was right. This could be a trap designed as a rescue mission––a ploy to trick Peeta and me.

"Shane, we need to leave now," the female hissed. "We're running out of time."

"I know, Maddy but I'm kind of busy right now," he said irritation in his tone of voice. "Listen, Peeta. I don't know what you're talking about or who tried to poison you but I'm here because the MockingJay sent a team of people, people in the Capitol as we speak…to risk their lives and get you and Katniss out of the arena." Peeta hesitated but looked unconvinced.

"Shane!"

"Shut up, Maddy I know, damnit."

"The MockingJay…who is he?" Peeta asked.

"How the hell do I know? No one knows," he huffed in impatience.

I turned and looked around me. Several tributes milled around looking at the devastation. Others were looking for supplies and weapons which were destroyed from the blast. I noticed Cato, Clove and his crew staring at us. I hoped they had the presence of mind to stay away from us.

"Katniss," the woman named Maddy spoke as she took a step towards us. "You have a sister named Prim. The sister Peeta volunteered to protect for you. We rescued her from the train. We're her friends." I almost smiled as I thought of my sister. Prim had that ability to make friends so easily. I wasn't as trusting as her. But, if it wasn't for her friendship with Peeta, where we would be now?

"Everyone knows I have a sister and that Peeta volunteered," I scoffed.

"Try again," Peeta demanded.

"She's alive and is waiting for you at a camp where she is safe and away from harm." I sucked in my breath. They were with Prim?

"If you know my sister, tell me something about her that only I would know."

Maddy looked towards Shane. "Your sister Prim is blond and blue eyed. She said your parent's names are Lily and Garrett Everdeen and you live in District 12 in a section called the Seam. And when Prim was old enough she started to train to become a healer like your mom." I sighed. All the things Maddy said were true but anyone could get that information but I had to be sure. I shook my head. "And before we left, Prim said that you don't trust people, not anyone. So she said to me to tell you that she has a nickname that you gave her as a child. You called her 'little duck.' " I sobbed as my knees buckled from relief and joy.

"Katniss?" Peeta said concern etched on his face.

"She's right. That's what I call her," I confirmed. Maddy and Shane sighed in relief. It was obvious by the expression on her painted faces partially hidden by their hoods that they passed my test. "Where is she?"

"Listen, we need to leave now. No time to get into details," Maddy insisted as she picked up her rifle from the ground and ignored my question. "We need to leave now." Shane approached Peeta.

"I believe that belongs to me," he said. Peeta handed the rifle back to him. "Come on, we wasted a lot of time. "Let's go."

"But what bout the other tributes?" Peeta inquired. He turned around. Cato and company were nowhere to be seen. A few ran away but good number stayed behind looking at us. They weren't fighting each other but still suspicious that they gave each other a wide berth just enough to run away.

"We didn't come here for them," Maddy explained. "Our orders were to rescue you and Katniss." I couldn't believe my ears. MockingJay, my own father was abandoning the other tributes, like the little girl from District 11. How could he?

"I'm not leaving them behind," Peeta demanded as he turned around. I agreed as I stood beside him. "Hey, hey." He waved his hands. "We're leaving the arena. Come with us."

"Peeta," Maddy hissed. "We don't have much time or the resource to take everyone."

"Too bad because I'm not leaving them," he persisted.

"Peeta, be reasonable," Shane stated. "They'll slow us down." It was cruel and horrifying to realize that their lives were being overlooked for Peeta and me, like their lives didn't matter.

"Come on, follow us," I shouted with Peeta as I waved my hands. A few started walking toward us.

"Jay was right," Shane voiced in resignation.

"Figures," Maddy responded back. I didn't know what they meant but I stored the comment in the back of my mind to ask them later.

"Okay, they can come with us but they have to keep up with us," Shane admitted defeat. My eyes searched for the little girl as the grouped approached us. Everyone looked scared and anxious wondering what was going trying to figure out if they should trust us.

"What's happening?"

"Is this part of the games?"

"Why was the cornucopia destroyed?"

"Who are you?" A slew of questions were tossed at us. I noticed that more than half the tributes were present. Shane lifted his hand. "Listen, no time to explain you either follow us or stay behind," he said. "We are leaving the arena now." Scared and relieved the rest of tributes followed Shane as he led them towards forest. They didn't know where they were going as they placed their lives in our hands. I guess it was better than trying to kill each other.

Maddy stood next to Peeta. Too close to my liking but I was glad that she was watching out for him.

"Katniss," Peeta said as she grabbed my hand. "What's wrong?"

"The little girl from 11 is missing," I informed him. He looked around.

"Peeta, get moving. I was ordered to carry you by force if necessary," Maddy said in calm but firm tone. Maddy was slender, lean and imposing woman. She stood at least five foot and eleven inches tall. I didn't doubt she could carry Peeta if she had to.

I blew a long breath through my mouth. 'And why was 'Maddy' assigned to 'carry' Peeta by force?' I was going to have very long conversation with my…Jay once we escaped the arena. Once we reached the grove, spontaneous loud booming sounds exploded in succession one after the other. I lost count after three explosions resonated in the air. The ground shook beneath us as small woodland creatures scattered and birds fluttered away from their perches startled from the sounds. The forest came alive with activity.

"Run, run," Maddy instructed her tone hard and harsh. Shane duplicated her scream ordering us to run as fast as we can. We ran deep into the woods two rebels soldiers with more than a dozen children from the ages of 12 – 17 following them blindly. May the odds be in our favor.

AN: Thank you for reading this chapter. I hope that this chapter answered a few questions. My thanks for your patience and for following 'Destiny.' It will be a long and arduous trip for Peeta and company as they try to escape the arena with Peeta insisting on taking all the tributes with him. He wouldn't be Peeta had he not tried to save the other tributes as well.

Have a great week!