Chapter 61 – Destiny 1: The Hunter

AN: Hello my followers. I first want to thank you for your patience. The last few weeks have been very difficult for me as RL hit me hard. Now that some of my difficulties have come to pass, I can concentrate on my writing. Unfortunately as I started to re-edit this last chapter of Destiny, I realized that it was too long for an epilogue so…this is not the last update. I have decided to cut chapter 61 in half so it's not so overwhelming. I hope you don't mind?

Thank you to those who alerted and followed Destiny. Also to the following who took the time to leave a review: LACR, Buttercupbadass, pumpkinking5, kelmimag, Aqua Rules, baldcoder, triojediknights, Browniangel, B Dizzy and guests. Your comments and reviews have kept me inspired to keep writing even through the tough times.

This chapter contains Katniss POV and is rated. The Hunger Games belongs to Suzanne Collins. Any mistakes found are my own.

Katniss POV ––

I sighed, long and deep inhaling the fresh scent of leaves and earth as the sunrays warmed my face. High up in the trees I felt free and relaxed even if it was momentary. I needed the relief and peace the woods provided. Everywhere I turned I was surrounded by the beautiful landscape of green lush trees––tall and wide filled with critters and birds.

I closed my eyes and let the sounds of birds chirping around me clear my mind from negative thoughts that swarmed in my head. Images of the past weeks flash in mind. Being chosen, my reunion with Peeta and our training, other images pulsed into view––Cinna, Portia and everyone we had encountered at the Capitol were in the forefront of my thoughts. So much had happened that it was difficult to categorize. I felt everything at once from joy, pain, sorrow and anger. All my negative thoughts and emotions were directed to Snow and the Capitol.

My heart lurched and ached when I was informed by Effie that Cinna hadn't arrive. We didn't know where they were or if he and Portia were safe. Their fate was uncertain. I'm filled with rage and sorrow that it's difficult to separate these emotions.

The sound of leaves rustled below me. Then voices followed. I sighed again. I was tired and ached all over not because of sleeping on a single cot that Prim and I occupied but the fact I laid in bed wide awake from my nightmares. Most of all I missed sleeping with Peeta. Everything changed once we arrived at the base camp.

Flashback ––

Six Days Earlier

The ride on the ship was long and uncomfortable. Prim sat beside me her hand tightly clasped onto mine as if she was afraid I wasn't real. Peeta's hand lay on my thigh warm and firm as my arm wrapped around his waist, resting my head between neck and his shoulder.

"You and Prim should get a bit of sleep," he said as his warm soft breath caressed my face. He smelled of mint as Prim handed him a sprig once he felt nauseous. I never knew he had a bad case of motion sickness whenever he traveled be it by train or hovercraft. Sleep was the last thing on my mind but I felt safe and happy to have the two most important people with me safe and sound. For the first time in weeks I was relaxed and not scared out of my wits wondering if I was going to survive the arena let alone watch Peeta die. I wanted the savor the peace and calm before reaching the base camp.

"I can't sleep," I admitted as I nuzzled my head on Peeta's shoulder. In the corner of my eye, I noticed Prim's smile on her face. "I'm too wired and I keep thinking of…"

Peeta nodded his head in understanding. "You should try. This trip will take two hours and after that who knows if…." He looked at Prim then whispered in my ear. "I don't think they'll let us sleep together. This maybe the last chance that you can be with me and be together."

My eyes widen. He's not thinking what I think he thinking? "I mean you know, to be able to be sleeping together in the same bed." He blushed. I smirked wondering why he was shy about our sleeping together. Then I realized we were no longer in the Capitol chaperoned by our mentor and reaping escort. Despite the rules, I forced the issue and slept in Peeta's bed. No one stopped me even though Effie tried relentlessly.

For a few seconds I thought of Haymitch and Effie and wondered if they were okay. Surprisingly I miss both of them. I sighed and thought of our dilemma.

"I think you're right," I admitted to my dismay.

Mom would certainly balked at the idea no matter how much I pleaded or begged. I doubted Mr. Mellark would permit us as well. I had gotten used to waking up with Peeta beside me so the thought of us not being together didn't sit well. We were finally safe but the threat on our lives wasn't over. There was a war against the Capitol led by my own father.

"Sleep, Katniss," Peeta cajoled me. "I'll be here when you wake up." The soft smooth of his voice and warm breath soothed me that I didn't even realized that with a few words I blinked then fell asleep.

Hours later, we reached our destination. Peeta gently awoken me as his hand caressed my face. "Katniss, wake up," he said. I groaned in despair. "We're here." I adjusted my eyes to the light that seeped through the portholes. It was dusk as dust mites danced against the sunlight, shafts of light pointed at the compartment floor. It was empty as Prim, Maddy and Shane had already exited the ship. We were alone.

Soft lush lips caressed my forehead. "Did you get some rest?" Peeta asked. He said rest not sleep. I could sleep all day and night and not get any rest. There was a difference. When I slept next to Peeta, I slept and rested. Without him I tossed and turned not being able to keep the nightmares at bay. I nodded my head and pressed my lips on his neck.

"Thank you," I groaned.

"No need to thank me, Katniss. We protect each other."

I stood up and stretched rolling my shoulders. Peeta picked up our backpacks. "Come on, Prim is probably waiting for us." I crossed the threshold of the ship door when a voice I haven't heard in weeks surprised me. My mother appeared hair in a bun, dressed in black pants and shirt. I was not used to her attire––in pants and rubber boots. She looked militant dressed like a soldier. There was a white armband on her left bicep with a red cross. She was attired like Prim.

"Katniss, Prim!" my Mom screamed once my foot touched the ground. She ran towards Prim and me embracing us in a tight hug. There were tears of joy and laughter. She kissed our foreheads like she used when we were children. "I missed you both so much."

"I missed you too, Mom," Prim and I said at the same time.

"Let me look at you both." She looked our face and body. There was a flicker in her eyes as she scanned us from head to toe. "I'm so proud of you. I love you both so much." I couldn't help it as tears tracked down my eyes. I've been so busy trying to survive after Peeta and I escaped from the arena that Prim, Dad and Mom barely surfaced in my mind. I couldn't think of them without forming an ache in my chest––missing them and hoping they were safe from harm. They were pieces of my heart that I kept in the back of mind. I love my family, but Peeta…he became my world and my focus.

But now, we're reunited and our family was whole again. The only person missing was––

"Peeta Mellark," Mom called out to him. Her tone startled me. She sounded angry, her eyes hard. "Come here, young man." She placed her hands on her hips.

"Mrs. Everdeen," he greeted her back as he took a step forward. Peeta looked scared his eyes round like saucers and his hands in his pockets. Sweat beaded his forehead. I felt bad for him.

"What do you have to say for yourself?" She was angry and I didn't know why. Mom looked at Peeta like she wanted to kill him as if he did something wrong. My stomach churned. Something was wrong. I didn't understand her attitude with Peeta as he had done nothing wrong unless she sensed the change in me.

"I don't know––" Peeta began. I wasn't about to let her reprimand Peeta. For what? Did she have some sixth sense that we…had sex? How did she know?

"Mom, what are you doing?" I asked. I was about to step between my boyfriend and mother when suddenly she wrapped both arms around him. The gesture startled Peeta that he yelped in surprise.

"Thank you, Peeta. Thank you for keeping my girls safe," she cried again. "Thank you for saving Prim. You put my girl's welfare before your own. You took care of both of them. Thank you. I…don't know how to repay you."

"I couldn't live with myself if anything happened to Prim," he returned and smiled at me, toothy and wide. "And, being with Katniss is all I payment I need." I drew a breath in relief.

"I wish your father was here to see you. He would be so proud of you." Peeta smiled against her shoulder as he slowly returned her embrace. "Thank you, Peeta."

"You're welcome Mrs. Everdeen," he said. Mom continued to hug him. She held onto him a little too long to my discomfort. A pout surface on my face and Prim snickered. I wasn't jealous that Mom appreciated Peeta, but she didn't have to hug him that long. I waited for her to release him. Just as I was about to pry her away from him, Prim joined in the embrace. I scowled. Ugh…what is it about women that even my mother and sister feel they could touch and––

"Katniss, don't be mad and stop scowling," Prim chortled. "We can't help it if we love Peeta too." Both my mother and Prim giggled. They giggled while they encased Peeta in a hug. Peeta, my Boy with the Bread who was love -starved from any affection from his mother now had my sister and mother's devotion. How could I deny him of that? As a matter of fact, Peeta seemed amused, embarrassed and pleased.

"Alright, that's enough," I said as I loosen their embrace around MY boyfriend. "Why do women think they can grab Peeta anywhere we go." I said those words under my breath. But Prim heard me.

"Maybe because he's gorgeous and smart, and sweet and has an ass that you can bounce––"

"Prim!" I cried out, horrified that my baby sisters was ogling at my boyfriend in such a matter.

All right, all right, Prim," Mon said, "Stop teasing your sister." I reached over and tugged at Prim's braid.

"Go get your own boyfriend and leave mine alone," I teased. I wasn't worried, much.
"Where's Dad?" I tucked my head under Peeta's chin as he placed his arms around me.

"You're Dad is not here, Katniss. He had to…work," Mom explained. A sliver of resentment and anger churned in my head. Why couldn't he take one single moment to meet me? Was I not important enough to him? Then, I remembered he orchestrated our escape. He saved Peeta and me. He was the Mockingjay. I had to adjust my thinking that Garrett Everdeen, my father who I loved and admired was not only the husband of Lily Everdeen he was also the leader of a rebellion. He was the symbol of hope and soldier in a war that had existed long before I was born. Men and women looked up to him. Garrett Everdeen is the Mockingjay. How could I reconcile with the man and the legend?

I had no choice but come to terms that he didn't just belong to us. My mother, sister and I had to share him with the rest of the Panem.

End of Flashback ––

I slept peacefully and comfortably in Peeta's arm during the ride to the new base camp. Since then my sleep was riddle with nightmares. I was missing Dad so much. My tenuous relationship with my Mom was back as we argued every day. I tossed and turned in bed missing Peeta. It didn't help that Prim had nightmares as well. Her source of comfort was mom while I had none. Mom wasn't at all sympathetic to my situation as I begged her to let me bunk with my boyfriend. Five nights later, I haven't slept much or if at all. What made matters worse was that Peeta and I barely saw each other as we were given tasks at the new camp. Everyone had a job to do: I hunted and Peeta baked. The rest of the day was cleaning and helping with the construction of the base camp. There was so much to do to make the camp livable.

The camp itself was an old abandoned town built one hundred years ago. No one knew what happened to the inhabitants but the buildings were still intact just as they left it. They were well hidden deep in the forest 400 miles away nestled into the base of a mountain. Tall trees surrounded us. They were lush, dense and plentiful. Amazingly, some of the buildings where carved into the trunk of the trees. Others were built on the larges branches. Those were the living quarters while the commissary, laundry, storage and supplies were built on the ground. Unlike District 13 which built their home underground, the rebel base camp was structured high into the trees. It was a tree-house community. Oddly there was a green mesh covering the buildings on the tree to serve as camouflage. They were made with rope and bits of rock sewn into the net. I noticed that the net/mesh were used like a gate or fence around the perimeter of the camp. Some of the mesh were 12 feet high. They reminded of the net used at the seaports in District 4, Finnick O'Dair's district.

Why had Snow not discovered this place was a mystery? Surprisingly, it was equipped with running water and electricity. The tree house we resided was reserved for the Mockingjay and his family. The place was well guarded with four rebels always on watch. Sneaking out to Peeta's residence wasn't a possibility. I found out much to my dismay how difficult it was to sneak into Peeta's residence. The Mellark home was reserved and furnished but only Peeta lived in it alone.

Peeta and I both rose early missing each other. I saw a glimpse of his blond head earlier this morning as he baked bread and prepared breakfast for the camp. Our only contact was a long lingering kisses on the lips as I headed my way into the woods to hunt every morning.

"Be careful and shoot straight," he said while he caressed my braided hair in his hand.

The noise below grew louder. I sighed again and closed my eyes. "I really don't need a babysitter," I said in a bitter manner. Both Shane and Maddy accompanied me as per order by the commanding officer of the camp, Commander Eisenman. He was in charge until the Mockingjay returned from his mission. Speaking of which, Dad was due to arrive days ago. It was not like him to not get in touch because he knew we would worry. Thus, this added to my stress and anxiety.

"Sorry, Katniss," Maddy voiced her apology from below me. I shook my head in annoyance but I realized it wasn't their fault and I shouldn't be angry with her and Shane.

I took one final inhalation of the fresh clean air before descending down the tree with great reluctance. Once I planted both feet on the ground, I squared my shoulders. A wild turkey and three pheasants hung on a tree trunk––my bounty after two hours of hunting. Shane and Maddy carried a bag each of berries and medical plants that Prim requested. . Somehow Prim trained Shane to pick out certain plants and vegetation to use for medicinal purposes. His knowledge of plants and herbs surprised me. He was a quick study.

Shane Roman. I wondered and worried about my sister's relationship with the young rebel. He was a kind and gentle man, a lot like Peeta in some ways. I could see why Prim had a crush on her new friend. I wasn't oblivious to know that my beloved sister had a crush on Peeta long before he and I got together. Why wouldn't she? Still, Peeta and Shane were both sweet. So that is why I was a bit suspicious of Shane's intentions. Peeta however, without my having to tell him of my concern had a 'little talk' with Shane days before. Afterwards, he assured me that I had nothing to worry about.

"This is Foster," Maddy spoke into her head microphone. "We're on the move. Taking Everdeen back to base camp. Lead the way." Maddy nodded her head. "Over and out."

"Where's Shane?" I asked Maddy I had her attention. She didn't looked pleased, agitated more likely. There was tension between them and it was obvious. All morning during our hunt Maddy had her eyes on Shane while he avoided her looks and stares. Were they having a lover's quarrel? Was Shane oblivious to Maddy's behavior towards him? I flinched as their interaction reminded of Peeta and me a few months ago.

Maddy drew a breath through her mouth. "He was…fidgety that he was getting on my nerves so I told him to go ahead." Her scowl turned melancholy. Loss for words I winced as I wondered how to console her. I didn't have many girl friends in school. My only friend was Madge. We never discussed girlish things like crushes and boys. I didn't want any part of it and Madge knew it.

But I'm different now. I have Peeta. I knew what it was like to be at odds with your boyfriend. I hated it even though we really weren't together at the time, but we…I pretended to be his girlfriend. The silence between Maddy and I was uncomfortable. I cleared throat and opened my mouth but nothing came to me. I tried again. I wasn't very good at comforting people. Family wasn't a problem but strangers?

However, Maddy was no longer a stranger but a 'friend' who had risked her life to help Peeta and I escape the arena. She was troubled and I did want to help her. Hell! What do I know? If Prim was here, she would know what to do or say.

I looked around for the rest of my 'security detail' six bodyguards that kept their distance as Shane and Maddy were my primary 'protector' whenever I went out to the woods to hunt. The arrangement annoyed and frustrated me. How could I hunt with a company of eight on my tail scaring away all the game? One was even worse then Peeta whose treads were like an elephants in the middle of the forest. Peeta! How he managed to slip into my thoughts so simply and quickly.

I exhaled a deep breath. "Are you okay, Katniss?" Maddy inquired, a look of worry on her face.

"I'm fine, Maddy?" I sighed. This was my opening, "Are you?" She flinched. "I can't help but notice…that…um…there's tension between Shane and yourself." Why was this difficult? I mean, we're two grown woman simply having a conversation. "Did you two get into a fight?"

"Yes, no. Don't mind me," she started. "Just me opening my big mouth and saying something stupid just when we were finally getting somewhere…I mean, it isn't as if we're officially together and me making an assumption that we were––"

"Oh, wait. I'm confused," I said. "I thought you two are together."

"We're not. I was hoping that we were working our way to but again as I said, I've managed to say something that angered Shane and he's mad at me." I wasn't a nosy busy body but I was curious.

"What did you say?" Maddy was quiet. I had certainly delved into something private. "Oh, sorry. I didn't mean to stick my nose into your business." Surprisingly, Maddy's face was neutral for a few seconds then suddenly she sobbed as tears brimmed her eyes. 'Oh, great. What do I do now?' I wondered what Prim would say or do? Even Peeta would know what to do? Thinking of him made me miss him. I really miss my Boy with the Bread.

"Maddy?"

She sniffled, wiped her nose and eyes. "Sorry. I'm not usually like this. I know who I want and get what I want. It's pretty selfish of me but…." Her voice trailed into a whisper. Then for the next few minutes, she revealed to me her relationship with Shane. Once she started she couldn't stop. She revealed things to me things that resonated with my relationship with Peeta.

To my horror, I couldn't help but react to how she treated Shane when Maddy was with Seamus. How she used him and took advantage of his love for her. I have treated Peeta abominably but not to the extent that Maddy treated Shane. I was afraid of my attraction to Peeta. I didn't want to admit that I loved him. But I knew how it felt like to be ignored or rejected by the one you love. That gut wrenching feeling Maddy felt was something we had in common.

"You must think me weak and stupid for reacting like this over a man. I know I treated Shane…and I how I…" She repeated herself as if she was saying a mantra. "I know I did wrong…"

"I understand how you are feeling," I returned. Then suddenly, I did something I never thought I do with a stranger. I reached out and touched her forearm as a gesture of comfort. And, words escaped from me that I didn't realized I needed to vent. To rant about things I held on for months. Things I never admitted to Madge and Prim––two very important and significant people in my life.

As we walked back to the camp, I told her of my tumultuous beginning with Peeta. How he loved me from the moment he set his eyes on me. How a little boy with curly blond hair was enamored with a little girl two years older him. Peeta was mesmerized with a girl from the Seam with long jet black hair and gray eyes. It didn't matter to him what I looked like but had a crush on me since the moment he heard me sing. How he continued to love me as he grew from a boy to a young man. I started to choke up when I revealed how I reacted to his attempt to befriend me. All he wanted and hoped for was a chance despite the social divide between us and how he was willing to have a friendship with me. My heart ached and my throat was dry by the time I told Maddy how I repaid Peeta in kind by my hatful behavior towards him.

Talking about it lifted a weight I never knew that was still harbored in my mind and heart. It was all in the past but I clearly remembered how we got to this point in our lives. Maddy didn't have to know about Ivan, Cray, Snow and every sordid trauma Peeta endured because of my father and me.

"I know I'm very lucky," I admitted with a big toothy grin on my face. 'So very lucky to be loved and love Peeta.' "That Peeta has a heart and soul so gentle. He forgave me and gave me chance. If I were him with the way I treated, I wouldn't have forgiven me." I clutched my bow so hard my knuckles were white. "He's so like Prim––kind, open and sweet. He and my sister, Prim are love personified."

"He sounds so much like Shane," Maddy blubbered, her eyes glossy with a smile on her lips. "He so perfect sometimes." I giggled and wondered if that was how I looked when I thought of Peeta.

"No one is perfect. Mind you, Peeta is not perfect," I said in a serious tone. "It takes a lot to get Peeta angry but once he is he like the rest of us." Peeta never grew angry often, not with his sweet disposition and even temperament.

"Yes, that sounds like Shane as well." We were fast approaching the camp. I sighed in relief as I couldn't wait to see Peeta and hold in my arms. To breath in the smell of flour and yeast on his skin mingled with his sweat. I relished the way he held me, strong but not tight like I was precious. 'Ugh, when did I become this person?' a voice sounded in my head as both in reprimand and giddiness. I wouldn't have it any other way.

My longing for Peeta magnified. I remembered the nights we snuck out into the wood before curfew or the hours sneaking during the day. We stole precious moments before returning to the base and our own beds. I shook my thoughts of Peeta off my mind. This wasn't about him or my missing Peeta. I refocused and turned my attention back to Maddy. She looked sad and miserable.

"I want him. I didn't want to admit it since he is younger than me. And I know I used him and took advantage of him. But, I'm trying to be better, patient even. I just don't know if it's too late for us."

"Do you think Shane still loves you?"

"I know he does. I can see it in his eyes and the way he looks at me, but I know I hurt him so much, repeatedly. I know I hurt Shane so badly that he's afraid to trust me again. To love me the way he used to." It was difficult to reconcile my image of Maddy now. She was close to tears and forlorn. Not the outer image of a young strong woman who held a rifle in her hand, a long serrated knife sheathed on her belt and dressed like rebel fighting against the Capitol. "I don't know what to do to convince Shane that I won't hurt him, intentionally." She wiped her nose with the sleeve of her shirt. "Do I keep trying or just give up?"

We walked in silence for a few minutes. A cool breeze rushed through us calming my nerves. "What should I do?" she lamented.

"I'm not the type of person who interferes or gives out advise," I turned to Maddy. "I only know of my own experience so I can't really say or tell you what to do."

"What would you do if you were me?" she asked. I was about to say I wasn't her, that I didn't treat Peeta the way she treated Shane. Our circumstances were vastly different and yet it was the same as the pain of knowing that the one person you loved was keeping you at arm's length.

"I'll ask you two questions," I stated. "Do you love Shane enough to stick by him and wait? Is he worth fighting for?"

Before she could I answer, I detected something in the air 200 yards away from us so I ducked behind a tree. Maddy mimicked my actions as she positioned herself beside me.

"Katniss?"

"I saw something..." I started. A flicker of light like a star shone in daylight. It caught my attention. "Something shiny in the sky." Maddy gasped. She knew what I meant. Something shiny in the sky meant it was a drone––it was Capitol. Maddy peered over and looked into the scope of her rifle. My heart raced and my mind spun. 'How did they find us?'

"Shit," she exclaimed. She confirmed my suspicion as she turned on her microphone. "Everyone stop where you are and hold your position," she spoke into the devise.

"What's up, Foster," a voice returned.

"We have company," she answered. "Two hundred yards southeast from our position. A bogey in the sky. Please confirm."

"Confirm. What do you want to do? Are you guys okay?"

"We're okay. I don't think it spotted us. Scout your area. Track if you can. I'm taking Everdeen back to the camp. Over and out."

At the camp, Maddy ran towards the command office to report about the drone. I went straight to the commissary where I knew Peeta would be located. . It was close to lunchtime so my longing and eagerness to see him was palpable. I needed to see Peeta after what Maddy and I discovered. I was scared. Scared for him but also for the camp.

It was obvious that Snow was still looking for us. With Peeta and I at the camp we were placing everyone and the rebellion in danger.

The commissary kitchen was filled with people. I strained my neck searching for my boyfriend. Luckily he stuck out in the sea of bodies preparing food as he wasn't wearing the black uniform. He had an apron around his slim waist. His blond curly hair was disheveled, his cheeks pink from exertion.

"Peeta," I called out to him. He was at the end of the kitchen elbows deep in dough. He heard me from the din of voices amongst the staff. He looked up in surprise then smiled.

He walked over to greet me as I grabbed him around the waist. "Katniss, are you okay?" he inquired. "You're trembling." He noticed the wild turkey and pheasants. "What's going on? Are you hurt?" I was numb and scared as he hurled questions of his concern.

I clutched his hands and led him away from the kitchen. Once we were alone I voiced my fear. "Peeta, we're in danger. They found us. We need to leave the camp."

"What? What are you talking about?" I was scaring him. I could see it in his eyes. "Leave? Why? Who found us?"

"In the woods, Maddy and I spotted a drone?" That was I needed to say and it was enough as Peeta gasped in horror.

"Where?"

"Does it matter? It's here and searching the area. We have to do something," I persisted.

"And your solution is to leave? Leave Prim and your Mom?"

"It's looking for us," I hissed in anger. Not at him but of my fear and frustration.

"Of course it is. But it could be looking for Mockingjay too," he reminded me.

"Exactly, Snow is looking for us. You, me and my Dad," I added. "We…I don't know what to do, but leave." It was difficult to sort out my emotions––anger, fear and frustration. They were al jumbled together. Angry at Snow and the Capitol for their relentlessness in hunting us down. Fear for everyone in the camp especially for my family. Frustrated at not knowing what to do and where to go.

"Katniss, calm down," he said as his hands rubbed my arms in a soothing manner. "Tell me everything." I related my discovery in the woods.

A few minutes later, Peeta led me to the war room where Eisenman was located. I wasn't surprised to see Shane and Maddy. But what did surprise me was that they were arguing in front of the commanding officer.

"I'm your partner, Shane. You should have told me," Maddy hissed. She was confronting him toe-to-toe, her eyes narrowed.

"I made a decision and acted not to hurt your ego," Shane spat back. " I saw it, okay? Our priority was to protect and keep Katniss safe and I knew you would protect her. You had the other guards with you."

"But you left to go on your own," Maddy explained. "You still should have told me––"

"Enough!" Eisenman sputtered clearly annoyed with the bickering. "Shane was right. Priority is Katniss and her safety. The safety of the camp, actually. But Maddy was right, too. You should have told her what you were doing and not left her unaware of the drone." Both Shane and Maddy were not pleased.

"What's going on?" Peeta inquired.

"Just a dispute between my soldiers, Mellark," Eisenman answered.

"Peeta and I need to leave the camp," I started. I wasn't about to endanger everyone. "It's obvious the drone was sent to search for us."

"And where would you go? It's already searching the camp. You leaving wouldn't resolve anything since it already in this area."

"So what do you suggest we do? If you shoot it down, they'd know someone is here," Peeta stated. "It'll keep searching this area." He sighed. "Katniss is right. She and I need to leave. Our presence here is endangering everyone."

"Listen, kid," Eisenman began. "You don't think that drones never appeared in this area before? We've been here for a while. We know how to protect this base."

"So you have a plan? A safety measure?" I asked.

"We've been in this camp for close to 20 years. You don't think we made any measure to ensure our safety?" he returned. "Listen, go back to your duty and leave the problem to us. No one is going anywhere."

"But how––" I started.

"Listen, Everdeen. I swore to Mockingjay to keep your family safe, to keep this camp safe. I appreciate that you would leave, but it's not necessary." He stomped his foot like some bull making a stand. "This, I will not make any compromises. You will stay here. You are safe. Trust me."

That was the problem. I didn't trust anyone, but my family and Peeta. After years of trying to survive and fighting the hate and animosity from the Merchants, it was difficult to open myself to anyone. I only began to trust a handful of people with Shane and Maddy added just recently. Haymitch, Effie, Cinna and the prep team I sort had to trust by force. But this was my father's men who he had entrusted with our lives. I relented.

"Everyone back to your work. We are done here," Eisenman ordered. "You two?" he directed to Shane and Maddy. "You're both dismissed." Shane exited the room without a backward glance as Maddy trailed at his heels. Whatever conversation they were about to have I didn't want to be witnessed of it.

Reluctantly, Peeta led me back to the commissary. With his flour covered-hand in mine, we walked back into the kitchen. I still was unconvinced to remain at the camp but–– I loved being out in the woods, However, the presence of the drone scared me. What was once my place of escape was no longer a haven. I appreciated the fact that Peeta fought with Eisenman to allow me to hunt in the woods in the condition that I had several bodyguards. It was no easy feat.

Flashback ––

Two days after our arrival at the camp, I was exhausted from lack of sleep and missing Peeta in my bed. Peeta was assigned kitchen duty and I with the assignment in the laundry room. My hours were filled with sorting and folding everyone's unmentionables and daily wear. I was restless, bored and grossed out touching filthy garments all day. Peet and I met as often as we could with the time and schedule that would allow us.

No one was allowed to leave the camp––no one with the exception of the soldiers that scouted outside to patrol the base.

With this knowledge that the rebels left the camp to scout, I thought it wasn't a bad idea to ask the commander of the base if I could accompany them to hunt for game. I was humming with anticipation and excitement as I was surround with trees, foliage and earth. It wasn't home or the forest in District 12. Since being trapped in the Capitol for two weeks and Peeta and I were running for our lives, I couldn't appreciate the beauty that surrounded me, until now.

My request was denied, vehemently using the excuse that my safety was the issue.

"You're father left me in charge to protect you, Everdeen," Eisenman explained. "I cannot agree to let you hunt in the woods and have something happen to you." I looked at Peeta for support. His eyes were downcast as he stared at his feet.

"I've been hunting for many years. I had peacekeepers to worry about back in 12," I told him. "I was careful and I was never caught."

"Yes, but no one was looking for you. Having a target on your back," he returned. "I can't risk it."

He was an authority figure––someone I should listen to but weeks of being without my woods made me broody, sulky and temperamental. I was going out of my mind from being denied my freedom, now that that I had a taste of it. The war against the Capitol was inevitable now that my father declared himself. There was no more hiding. I wanted to take advantage of what little freedom I had before the revolution escalated.

"You know, Commander. Unless you agree Katniss is going to sneak out," Peeta said. I gasped in horror as I felt his betrayal. Peeta knew me. He was right. I had already formulated in my head to sneak out. Peeta's betrayal stung. It hurt knowing that he would reveal that information and betray me. Peeta avoided my death glare. 'Look at me,' I sent to his profile. He didn't as he continued to speak as if I wasn't there.

Anger boiled inside me. How dare he––

"I know, Katniss," Peeta continued. "You can't keep her from the woods or from hunting. It's what makes her breath. She's a hunter, the woods is her…haven."

"Sorry, Mellark," Eisenman persisted. "It's too dangerous."

"Would you rather she snuck out because that is what Katniss will do, no matter what you say." I'm going to kill Peeta. He was making matters worse. It was bad enough that have Maddy shadow me.

"If she does sneak out I'll lock her up," Eisenman projected. "Simple solution."

"What would Mockingjay say about that?" Peeta threatened. "You placing his daughter in lock up."

"I think that Mockingjay would agree with me to keep his daughter safe," he exchanged.

My blond hair boyfriend shook his head and crossed his arms. "You throw Katniss in lock up and I'll walk out of the kitchen," Peeta promised. Inwardly, I gasped in horror not showing my emotion. "You can't force me to work in the kitchen."

Eisenman narrowed his eyes staring at Peeta with a stern hard look on his face. "You are assigned to kitchen duty. Everyone has a job here."

"As I see it, Katniss and I are civilians," Peeta stated. "We didn't volunteer. I'm not a soldier to obey your orders and neither is Katniss, as a matter of fact." Peeta reached out and grabbed my hand. What anger I felt at him diminished. He was on my side.

"We abide by the rules out of courtesy and sense of duty. To keep this camp safe and from harm. I volunteered my service even though you assigned me to kitchen duty." 'Hey, wait a second. I never volunteered to laundry duty.'

"No one in this camp is without a purpose to keep this camp functioning. I don't carry deadweight. Everyone must earn their keep,"

"Listen, sir. I've seen how you ration food and supplies. Everything is portioned, measured and controlled."

"Get to the point, Mellark." Eisenman was losing patience. I could tell he wanted to tell us to fuck off but he was Peeta Mellark, a celebrity at the camp. And I was the Mockingjay's daughter. So he listened against his better judgment.

"Katniss isn't asking for much. Just a few hours in a day to hunt. She is a hunter; it's in her blood just as I am a baker."

"You're asking for special privileges," Eisenman sneered in disgust. "Other than the fact of who you both are, we would not be having this discussion at all."

"Well, it is because of who we are that I am asking you politely and with regard for Katniss's request. You already have scouts in the woods. Katniss is no amateur. She can take of herself. Just give a chance."

"And if I still say no?"

"Then you might as well place both of us in lock up," Peeta suggested. "I don't have to work in the kitchen and Katniss doesn't have to work in the laundry room" It was a bluff and we both knew it.

"Peeta, don't––"

"I should both put you in lock up anyway for insubordination," he threatened.

"Well, then this is a problem. As see I it you're treating us like…Katniss and I are your soldiers. We're not. Did you volunteer, Katniss?" I shook my head. Eisenman opened his mouth. "I know I didn't volunteer so, we really don't have to take orders from you."

The commander of the base grew quiet, but I could tell he was brimming with fury. "I could still place you under arrest for civil disobedience––"

"For not doing your laundry and kitchen duty," Peeta snickered. "Sir, with all due respect. I appreciate your concern for Katniss's safety. And I agree that she shouldn't hunt, but…" He tightened his grip on my hand. "But I care about her well fare, her state of mind. Let her hunt. Order as many guards to escort her. Send Shane and Maddy. I trust them to keep her safe."

"Peeta––" I said his name in frustration. "I don't need bodyguards or babysitters. I can't hunt with an entourage of people." I loved that he was on my side and was fighting for me but bodyguards while I hunt?

"I know it's not what I you want," he returned. "But what is the alternative, Katniss. I'm scared when I think about you out there in this precarious time. You need to hunt. This is the only way."

He was right. If I wanted to hunt I had to agree to the terms Peeta suggested or rather demanded on my behalf. I nodded my head. "Okay."

"Just a second, I didn't agree to anything," Eisenman blurted in frustration.

"You're only alternative––solution is to lock us up because if Katniss isn't allowed to hunt, I'm not going back to kitchen."

Eisenman balked but thought about it. Since working in the kitchen and with the little resource supplied, Peeta managed to bake bread every day. He woke up early morning before everyone and prepped to make loafs of bread and biscuits.

It was like heaven to wake up to the smell of bread in the morning, all the more making me miss Peeta. In turn, my baker was making everyone happy. From what I heard and from Prim, Peeta was a welcome addition to the meal preparation. The meals were met with content faces and bellies. The morale in the camp was lifted and not sullen or down-trodden. My dad was right––an army marches on its stomach. People, men and women alike fell in love with Peeta to my chagrin. And, the number person one who benefitted was Eisenman. Peeta personally brought over a loaf of bread to his residence every morning.

A few seconds later we were on a stand off––Peeta and I against the commander of the base camp. I tried not to snicker because I knew Eisenman would cave to Peeta's demands…um…suggestion. It worked. I found a bow and quiver delivered at my residence after dinner. To appease commanding officer, I reserved game for him in exchange for my hunting privileges. Suffice it to say, I awarded my boyfriend with a make out session that left me yearning for more.

End of flashback ––

"Everything is going to be okay, Katniss," Peeta tried to assure me. Something was hovering in the back of my mind. Maybe it's just me being pessimistic and feeling like this was a calm before the storm. Now that my father revealed his himself, I felt more stressed and anxious than ever. It didn't help he hasn't communicated in days. I was worried that something was wrong.

Peeta wrapped his strong firm flour-scented arms around me while rubbed his cheek on my temple. I sniffed the skin on the crook of his neck. He smelled divine like fresh bread at the early morning hours––flour, butter and yeast with a hint of cinnamon. 'Wait a second!' He smelled of cinnamon––a very expensive spice that was difficult to come by, like chocolate.

"Peeta?"

"Hm..."

"What were you baking before I interrupted you." I pulled back to stare into his eyes. There were half-lid as he had a smile on his face.

"Um…bread?" I narrowed my eyes I suspicion.

"Why do you smell…" I took another whiff. Peeta laughed. "Why do you smell like cinnamon?"

"Oh, Katniss," he whined. "I was going to surprise you for dinner." He grabbed my hand and led me to a closet full of supplies. It wasn't large but big enough to fit the both of us. My mind suddenly flashed images of things I shouldn't be thinking about. Like was the height on the stack of 100 lb bags of flour tall enough for Peeta to bend me over and––

"Now I made this very early this morning so no one knows I hid it here." Peeta reached over a shelf revealing a brown carton. He opened the lid. "Take a look," he instructed. A wave of sugar and cinnamon assaulted my nose. My eyes bulged in surprised. Inside the box was a stack of cinnamon rolls. My mouth watered. "For dinner this evening I thought I make dessert."

"You made cinnamon rolls?"

"I'm going to sneak this out and take it to your place after lunch." He returned the box to the shelf. My stomach grumbled from the mere sight of the treat. I couldn't wait as the aroma of confectionary sugar wafted in the air.

The day was long with a few hours of laundry duty. Lunch was chicken soup with a slice of bread. It wasn't filling but satisfied my hunger. By dinner I was so hungry my stomach ached. Mom prepared the pheasants I caught earlier this morning. She prepared the meal at the commander's residence as to not be disturbed at the commissary kitchen. Rank had it privileges.

During dinner, I kept staring at the empty space that would have been my dad. I missed him so much, but I knew not as much as Mom. She wept at night long after she thought Prim and I were asleep. I realized how difficult it must feel to be the wife of the leader of a rebellion. That and the fact we still have not a heard a word from him or Haymitch. The feeling of helpless and anxiety multiplied as each day passed. I whined and complained about not spending enough time with Peeta or sleeping in his bed but in truth I knew I was lucky. I had him with me safe and sound with an army to protect us.

I sat close to Peeta his left hand on my right thigh, my hand over his. The few spare moments that we shared in the afternoons walking in the forest were marred with the presence of Maddy and Shane as they trailed behind us. We had no privacy. Not a single moment alone since the last time we were together at the base camp. We had that one afternoon together while Maddy and Shane kept their distance. That time wasn't enough. I miss him. Dessert was served with coffee and tea.

"This is so good, Peeta," Prim swooned, her mouth full of cinnamon roll. Gooey sugar dripped from the side of her lip. I smiled. Prim was so happy and healthy. I was afraid her time away from family affected her negatively. It didn't. She made friends in the camp and found purpose. She was a healer like mom. People turned to her for help. "I could eat this all day." I giggled at her joy, her sense of contentment. She was back with family. It was all that mattered to me to see her happy.

Me, I wanted only two things; Peeta and our freedom. Freedom to be with him without repercussions or the weight of the world on our shoulders. The time of the Hungry Games were over but now we were at war with the Snow and the Capitol. We are homeless and targeted. With a full belly and Peeta by my side, I felt content. Peeta looked content as well as he placed an arm around my shoulder. I could tell he took a shower earlier as there was a hint of soap was on his skin, his hair combed back. He wore a simple light green button down shirt and dark khakis, not the uniform of all black shirt, pants and boots the uniform women and men wore in the camp. Clothes I washed and folded for the past few days. I wore a dark green dress that fell on my knees. He looked like my Peeta from District 12 before Cray and Ivan. He was still to skinny from lack of sleep as there were dark circles under his eyes.

Peeta turned and placed a kiss on my temple. I sighed. Our moment of peace was disturbed a few minutes later when someone was pounding on the door. A voice shouted, "Peeta, Katniss open up. It's me, Shane." He sounded frantic. Did something happen to Maddy was my first thought?

Peeta tore the door open as I stood behind him. Prim and Mom stood as well but kept their distance but close enough to see Shane. "What's wrong, Shane?" he queried. Peeta's face was calm but underneath his cool exterior I sensed his trepidation, his mouth in a thin line.

"I'm sorry to disturb your dinner, but Commander Eisenman sent me to fetch you," his announced. "All of you, that includes Mrs. Everdeen and Prim." He glanced at my sister and Mom, a grimace on his face. Something was wrong I could tell on Shane's face.

I held onto Peeta's hand for comfort, our fingers interwined. Each step I took caused my heart to pound hard. Cold crisp air gathered in my lungs as condensation seeped through my nostrils. It was so cold I hardly felt it as sweat beaded my forehead.

Inside the command room stood all the officers that were under Commander Eisenman's command. Everyone had grim looks on their faces. The air around them was tense. "Everdeen, Mellark. Thank you for joining us," he addressed us. Shane immediately stood next to Maddy.

"What's going on, Commander?" Peeta asked. I was afraid to let go of him as I placed my left hand over our clasped hands. Ordinarily, I balked at public displays of affection. I wasn't a needy type of person, but I was scared and his touch calmed me.

Eisenman glanced at Mom and Prim before setting his eyes back to me. "We heard from your fath…from Mockingjay," he explained. My heart lurched from excitement.

"Where is he? Is he all right?" Mom blurted. Her face was deathly pale as she wrung her hands in front of her.

"When is he coming back?" Prim questioned. Eisenman paused before he answered.

"I have bad news. There was another attack in District 12," he explained. For the next few minutes he reported what had happened to the Merchant quarters and the Seam. For more he explained, the angrier I grew. Mom and Prim were devastated. Peeta was stoic. "They couldn't send any transmission in fear of Snow intercepting any interactions and locating our position. As for now, he ordered radio silence and quarantine in District 12. No one can enter, no can leave."

"We have to help them," Mom suggested.

"They are under quarantine," Eisenman reminded her.

"Can we send them any medical help?" Prim asked. "Supplies. If my…Mockingjay destroyed the train, how are they getting any medical assistance?"

"We were given orders by Mockingjay himself to stay away."

"Surely, he wouldn't deny medical help for the survivors," Mom countered. "You can send drones to drop off supplies they need."

"They have been shooting down any drones entering the district, Capitol or not," Eisenman returned. "Mockingjay isn't taking any chances."

"We need to do something," I snapped.

"There is nothing we can do for now. Listen, I know this is hard to take. They took a risk in sending this information alone."

"How? How do you know all this?" Mom inquired.

"Mockingjay sent a couple of soldiers to District 13. To report to President Coin of the situation in 12. And to help them figure out how to find a cure for the contagion."

"How many are infected? How many are sick?" she asked.

"As of three days ago, they estimated 38 percent of the remaining population," he revealed. Mom covered her mouth in despair. Prim gasped horrified at the high percentage of people affected. Thirty-eight percent out of five thousand survivors. And they still had no idea what it was or how to contain it.

"What about family?" Peeta finally spoke. I was too angry and scared at Snow that for a moment I forgot about his feelings. I had Prim and Mom with me. He was missing his family––his dad, brother, sister in law and nephew.

"Listen, I know you have a lot of questions," Eisenman started. "Questions I don't have answers to. So he sent this." In his hand was small disc. It was small about two inches wide in diameter. "We were told not to watch unless all of you were present." Eisenman then inserted the disc into the side fifteen-inch monitor.

Static appeared on the screen at first. Then the face I haven't seen in three weeks was displayed. He wore his Mockingjay suit minus his hood as he was sitting down with his hands folded in front of him.

AN: Thank you for reading this chapter. I will post the last chapter before Christmas Day. Tons of gifts to wrap since I've done all my shopping early this year. Thanks again for your patience and understanding. I hope to update soon. Definitely before the 25th. Have a great weekend.