In this last chapter, the Battle is upon us and it is now time to see if Snow can keep to his Crown and if Crane's visions hold true.

I do not own the Hunger Games - This a multiple-POV chapter


In the Castle

Katniss stood before Haymitch. Her decision to be seen as a female was important.

"Are you sure?" Haymitch frowned.

"Yes, I'm sure."

"I am only concerned with your safety. We are headed to battle and during combat, men do not conduct themselves in a chivalrous manner."

She took a deep breath, before looking up into Haymitch's eyes. "I understand your point. In my natural form, many men will not listen to me, they will either overlook me or try to take advantage of me. However, I want them to know the truth. And if necessary Peeta will be my champion. It is my intention to bring him here so that he can be a witness when you remove the spell."

Haymitch said nothing, only let her talk.

"I want the world to know Snow tried to kill me, but thanks to you I'm alive, and that I am the heir to the throne."

"Let's get the boy then."

Katniss nodded, she thought of the last time she saw Peeta. He was standing in the forest watching her as she flew away toward the Olvidados stronghold. While flying overhead she had seen Snow and his army marching toward the castle. There were so many of them, that the moonlight reflected off of their white tunics. That didn't frighten Katniss as much as the two trebuchets that were sent ahead of the army. The huge siege engines combined with Crane's limited power meant the castle walls were vulnerable. It was imperative for the others to know of the danger that awaited them. She saw the strands of time flowing around her, though this time a strand of gold appeared from her middle and extended to a door that was within a tree. Katniss opened the door and found Peeta standing with Finnick.

As soon as Peeta saw her, he extended his arms toward her. Relief poured through her to see him waiting for her as she ran into his arms. It felt wonderful to be held by Peeta.

"You're alive?" Peeta whispered into her cheek.

"Yes. But we have to move fast. Snow has siege engines, I saw them moving from below. He will unleash them as soon as his army arrives."

They separated and Katniss turned to Finnick, "Thank you for staying with him."

"Fletcha, Ryder left a short while ago. They are slowly trailing behind Snow's Army."

"I still wish we had Plutarch with us," Katniss said in frustration.

"Don't be frustrated," Finnick grinned.

"Snow has spies, but we have a large contingent of men that have infiltrated Snow's army. They will be fighting for us when the time comes."

"How will we tell who they are?"

"They will fly under Darius' flags; and will all wear red and silver," Finnick replied. "I will let King Daniel know as soon as we arrive."

"Okay," Katniss said. "Hold onto Peeta, this will be different because I'm not using Crane's power. I'm using my own."

Katniss closed her eyes. She stepped through the other plane. She could see the door within the tree. When she moved Katniss felt a slight tug. Looking back she could see both Finnick and Peeta. Finnick slouched forward, he wasn't magical and couldn't move about freely in this magical plane. Peeta hefted Finnick over his shoulder.

Katniss took Peeta's hand.

Instantly Finnick was surrounded by a Blue light. Peeta's light was so pure it glittered like the golden halo the masters painted on canvas.

Katniss looked down and the golden cord she'd seen earlier was tethered to Peeta. He saw it and his smile glowed brightly. This was their soul bond. Katniss nodded at Peeta before they walked hand in hand toward the door.

She opened the door allowing Peeta to step through first with Finnick. She took in a deep breath, she could feel her power run through her body, it was almost as if she was energized in some way from being near Peeta in this zone.

As she slowly began to enter the real world, Katniss found she had transported them to the throne room. Peeta stood by his brothers. Finnick was on the floor, and Haymitch was near him making him drink some sort of potion. King Daniel and Ryker stood in awe staring at Peeta.

Katniss enjoyed watching Peeta reunite with his family.

"By Jove," King Daniel exclaimed. "Peeta," Daniel breathed out. "My brother has come back from the dead like Lazarus."

"Daniel," Peeta said, as he gripped his older brother in a tight embrace.

"Uncle," Ryker said in awe. "I cannot believe Fletcha has brought you from the past. He is a wondrous wizard!"

"Is this my nephew? The last time I saw you, you only reached my knees."

"It is," Ryker said, standing straighter.

"You are a man now."

Katniss wiped the tear that streaked down her cheek as the Mellarks reunited.

"You are truly divinely gifted, Fletcha." King Daniel smiled broadly. "I have never seen such wonder."

"Your majesties," Finnick grunted as he stood from the Floor. "As wonderful as this family reunion is, we must remember Snow is on his way."

"Finnick is right," Katniss said. "He has set up siege engines outside of the gate."

"We have been busy, concocting ways to combat what Snow could do against us," Ryker said with a mischievous look on his face.

"What are you planning on doing?" Katniss asked.

"Well we are going to open the doors," King Daniel answered.

"Well before we do that." Katniss turned to Haymitch. "I think it's time for them to see the real me."

"See the real you? "Finnick questioned.

Haymitch cleared his throat. "The lad you see before you is not a lad but a lass. I had to disguise her for she was the mirror image of her ancestor." Haymitch then waved his hand as he muttered, "Reficere cogitationis et reditus ad verum sui…"

Katniss began to glow and her clothing began to vibrate on her skin. She could see as they transformed into a long fiery gown with gold embroidery at the neck and a red velvety cape appeared with stars woven into it.

"You look majestic," Peeta said.

Katniss reached up to touch her hair. It was longer, and half of her hair was woven into a coronet. The other half fell in a curtain of luxurious dark locks.

"Here," Peeta said, handing her bow and her sheath of arrows.

"Fletcha is a she," Finnick blurted out loud.

"Fletcha means arrow," Katniss explained.

"I know what Fletcha means," Finnick said, flabbergasted.

"You look like Queen Paylor," King Daniel whispered in awe.

"I am the descendant of Paylor. My mother was her daughter…"

King Daniel took off his crown and bowed before her. At his gesture, all of the men bowed their heads.

"Please rise, I want to hear this plan," Katniss said.

They huddled together and disclosed the mad plan Ryker and Haymitch cobbled together in the two days Katniss had been gone.

In the distance, Snow and his army approached under the cover of darkness. The moon above a silent witness as a man proudly sat on an armored steed with a crown firmly placed on his head. A vast army followed the King like regimented ants along the earth.

As the procession moved slowly through the path that led to the castle, they disturbed a nest of sleeping birds. The birds took flight in the middle of the night and crossed the span of the moon's bright orb.

Below Snow tracked the birds as they rode toward the castle. If Crane were beside him, the man would have said the birds crossing in front of the moon was an omen. Snow could not be bothered with such dribble. Snow was only concerned with deposing Daniel from his throne. He acted quickly as soon as he heard that Crane had regained his powers Snow sent word to have the siege engines sent ahead.

The catapults and mangonels were brought to the front of the line. It was the news Plutarch was telling him. Snow was not going to solely depend on a wizard to take down the walls. He had waited two days for the weaponry to arrive. Snow wanted them to be ready for when he and his army arrived at the gatehouse.

They were not in a rush, as they wanted to catch King Daniel before daylight, and there were still several hours of darkness ahead.

"Apollo," Snow called out.

Snow could hear the hooves of the man's horse as it clip-clopped over to him. Apollo's horse neighed as he rode next to him.

"Your Majesty," Apollo greeted.

"I want to know the minute Plutarch joins our ranks."

"Yes sire," Apollo nodded before retiring backwards.

The castle could be seen in the distance, sitting on a large mound of earth. Unlike the last time, the torches were lit. The combination of bright moonlight and torches illuminated the castle.

With a critical eye, Snow took in the castle. Even in the moonlight, he could see the castle walls had been reinforced.

Snow resisted the urge to sigh. There would be no element of surprise this time. It was necessary to have all his army ready for battle. Snow frowned wondering where Plutarch was. He knew that when they left the camp he was doing security checks. Plutarch should have caught up with them by now.

"Sire Plutarch is approaching," Apollo called out.

"Good let him come forward."

"Yes, Sire," Apollo said before falling back.

Plutarch rode up to him.

"Your majesty," Plutarch greeted. "I was instructed to report to you right away."

"I am glad you were able to catch up," Snow said.

"Anything to serve, my liege."

Snow grunted. "What do you think of the castle and walls?"

"They have made improvements and they are clearly waiting for us."

"I suspected, as much."

"If I may speak freely, your majesty?" Plutarch inquired.

Intrigued, Snow said, "Please do."

"I want to scout the adjacent village, and make sure there aren't any surprises waiting for us."

Snow thought about Plutarch's suggestions. He had not thought about the village. Plutarch was always thinking ahead, and strategizing. Moves and countermoves, all angles had to be investigated. "Go, take your men."

"Yes sire," Plutarch said, bowing his head before falling back.

Snow looked to the moon and he narrowed his eyes at the silvery ball in the sky. "Bring me Crane."

"Yes sire," Apollo answered.

Snow straightened his back as they made the clearing that led to the castle. Crane came riding up, "Sire."

"I want to be inside of the castle before morning."

"Yes sire," Crane said.

"Good, go ride next to Apollo."

Crane nodded and did as Snow bid.

Snow looked forward as he guided his horse down the path. They were coming up on the Castle. He counted on Crane being able to take down the walls so that they could get inside.

The men were quiet as they marched. The riders on horses were having a hard time controlling their steeds. The horses danced about as they picked up on the nerves. Behind him he heard a loud neigh, he looked over his shoulder.

Snow watched Crane yelp as he was tossed off his horse. He laughed, it served the self-righteous little worm to fall on his arse.

Snow gripped the reins of his horse. The beast dared not dance or become uncontrollable, like Crane's horse. Horses, unlike humans, could sense power. They could sense a person's nerves. They became skittish when scared, and if the rider was scared they sensed that too. He needed to show his army that everything was under control. That everything would be fine.

When they reached the foot of the castle Snow brought his horse to the edge of the moat. The moat was connected to the river that spilled into the sea and was swollen from the moon. The drawbridge was lifted. Snow could hear the horns announcing their arrival.

The blast of the horns could be heard throughout the land. In the village, those who remained looked toward the Castle. They gathered by the gate that led to the inner bailey.

The creatures of the Land of the Forbidden Forest who had taken solace deep within took notice of the blast of the trumpets. There was no greater foe than the human that sat on Paylor's throne. One by one they began their journey toward the castle. Unbeknownst to the creatures on a hill near the castle, Plutarch and his company of men were stationed.

They were waiting to see what the ties of fortune would dictate for both King Snow and Daniel.

"Uncle, should we not be engaging in war?" Hilarius asked.

"The winner of this battle will determine our fortunes."

"Did you not believe the lad?"

"That child did not look like Eragon of Everdeen. I do not believe the Stone will glow."

"B…ut…," Hilarius stammered.

"We wait," Plutarch said, holding his glass to peer down into the bailey.

From his vantage point, he could see Snow and his army arrive at the Castle gates. He could also see the inner bailey. The men inside were calmly standing in formation waiting for orders.

There were archers along the battlements and hidden within the walls. The Olvidados were prepared for war.

The door to the palace was opened. King Daniel stepped out along with his son Prince Ryker. They ascended the short flight of stairs and stood looking up, waiting.

Haymitch came out and came to stand by King Daniel.

All eyes were on the door of the palace. Inside just by the doorway, Katniss stood taking a deep breath.

"Are you alright?" Peeta said, taking her free hand.

"How long did you know?"

"Mag's, Finnick's gran, had the sight. She told me my soulmate was the stone of Panem. I didn't understand until you appeared in my room. I heard from my father that Paylor could do that. I'd never seen magic like that and then you kissed me." He smiled down at her his eyes crinkled and a small dimple appeared on the side of his face.

"Will you kiss me now-" Katniss didn't get to finish her sentence as Peeta placed his lips on hers. At the contact of his lips, her heart beat swiftly in her chest and she could feel his calm energy sweep into her. Soon she was audibly sighing, pressing herself to Peeta's form. Greedily her hands reached up and gripped his armor-clad shoulders to deepen the kiss. Peeta grinned against her lips and pulled back.

"We will have enough time for romantic entanglements after this."

Katniss nodded her brain fuzzy. It took a few moments for her to calm down.

Peeta placed a tender kiss on her forehead.

"Later," she uttered breathily.

They looked meaningfully in each other's eyes. They would consummate their union after the battle was won.

"Let's go win this," Peeta said.

Katniss walked out onto the bailey. There was a gasp when those assembled watched her walk out. Peeta stood behind her. "I am Katniss of Everdeen, the daughter of Eragon of Everdeen. Snow sent his henchmen to kill me but I survived. At this moment he sits on the other side of the moat believing he will be victorious. But I say today will be his defeat. This is the day we will fight fire with fire. This is the day our children will mention as the day of our liberation!"

As she finished speaking Katniss turned to King Daniel who turned to his men.

"Prepare for battle."

The men assembled in the bailey roared before rushing to their battle stations. The moon sat in silent judgment in the night sky as it witnessed the camps waiting for war.

The heroic men and women under the banner of King Daniel waited within the castle preparing to defend hearth and home.

Plutarch's men who waited outside of the village were spectators watching to see who they would side with.

In the distance, another group, men of arms led by Prince Ryder were waiting for the right moment to attack.

The noble and ancient creatures who were going to defend the Castle stood at the ready, hoping for a victory but fearing a defeat. If the battle wasn't won today they would help those fighting for freedom escape.

And finally, the men under the banner of the imposter who wore the Stone of Panem under his inauspicious brow stood looking at the Castle.

Fate would deal her hand tonight. All of nature keenly watched, for tonight's balance would be restored in the land. In the dead of night birds and other woodland creatures scurried away from the palace as the army arrived.

It gladdened Snow's heart when he saw the walls of the castle. They would be no match for his siege engines. He gave the order for the men to queue up into their battle formations. Once all of the men were in position Snow gave the signal for the siege engines to be readied.

Snow urged his horse to turn so that he could face his men. He knew the image of him with his red and white fur-lined cape and the crown firmly placed on his head was powerful.

It was remarkably silent as he stared at his army. The army was comprised of a collection of foot soldiers, knights who had sworn fealty to him, some who were mercenaries, and others who were threatened to come.

"Tonight we shall victoriously take the castle. The days of old have passed and we march into a bright future. Settle your hearts and douse them with courage for come morning's first light; we shall be a united kingdom under the Stone of Panem once again."

A large roar rose amongst the men.

Snow turned his horse and grabbing his sword he thrust it into the air. He pointed to the castle and the siege engine unleashed various-sized stone balls at the gatehouse. The impact shook the very ground they stood on.

"ATTACK!" Snow cried.

The front line advanced with long shields. They dragged boats into the water and tied them together to build bridges so that his army could cross. Several men fell into the water. Unlike the last time, King Daniel and the Olvidados were prepared when arrows rained down on them, as his men struggled to build the pontoon bridge as quickly as possible.

Once it was done, another group of men ran forward. These men attempted to scale the wall.

Snow watched Crane position himself in front of the gatehouse. The man lifted his hands and a ball of energy crackled as it grew in his hands. Crane leaned back slightly and threw the ball at the massive doors. The structure creaked.

Between the siege engines, Crane, and the men climbing the walls it wouldn't be long before they were inside of the castle.

From above a raven glided through the night sky. Neither Snow nor Crane paid the raven attention, they were focused on crumbling the defenses of the castle.

Undisturbed the raven flew through the night sky until it spotted the shiny flash below. It dove toward the ground toward its target.

Rook put away the mirror as soon as he spotted the raven.

It landed just a few steps away from him on a boulder. He watched as the bird transformed. Haymitch coughed as he stood up to his full height.

The Rook removed his hood and revealed himself to the old wizard. "Hello, old friend."

"Eragon," Haymitch breathed.

"Here I think you should cover yourself up," Rook said, handing Haymitch a cloak. The man wasn't going to be amongst them long.

"I thought you were dead," Haymitch said, sliding the cloak on his shoulders.

"So does everyone else." Eragon had been going as the Rook for so long that it was hard to identify himself as Eragon anymore.

"Does Sweetheart know?"

"Yes. My daughter knows, I could hardly believe she was in the past."

"I thought she was going to destroy Snow in the past," Haymitch said.

"Not sure if you know this but my daughter never follows orders."

"Believe me I know, she's better when she's acting out of pure instinct."

"I know. Haymitch, about -"

"I am sorry - about your wife. I didn't arrive on time. I tried, I really did - it just wasn't possible."

"You saved my child," Eragon said. "She's the beacon of hope."

"I have a message from that beacon."

"Good I shall bring you to others." Rook led Haymitch to the army. "They know me as Rook," he said.

"By Jove," Haymitch breathed when he saw the assembled army. "When the boy said to look for the flash I did not expect this many men."

"Haymitch," Prince Ryder called. "What of the battle, when should we attack?"

"You should approach but do not attack until the signal."

"Who will give us the signal?" Prince Ryder said.

"Fletcha will give the signal. You will not miss it…then you will attack from behind." Haymitch then nodded to them all, "I have to return."

"Godspeed," Ryder said.

Haymitch muttered something under his breath then transformed himself into a raven. He croaked a raven-like screech before lifting his small body into the air and flying back toward the castle.

With determination, Haymitch flew.

His message had been delivered.

Things were not going to the plan he had originally made, they were going to be much better. Bolstered by the thought he pushed through.

The cry of war could be heard, within the Castle, Katniss used her arrows to pierce the heart of Snow's army. By her side Peeta put his considerable combat skills to use, vanquishing the enemy. Katniss looked at the wall that separated the village from the palace. Finnick and a reserve were on the other side waiting for a signal. They were all waiting for her to somehow win the day. Katniss was hoping for divine inspiration.

Katniss began aiming for a man who made it up on the wall.

The gatehouse exploded. Peeta caught her and stopped her from falling down due to the blast. Katniss stood and watched as wave after wave of men came crashing into the bailey.

Katniss's eyes narrowed on the wizard Crane. He was easy to spot; he had no armor, only his flowing blue cape.

"Have you spotted Haymitch?" Katniss asked.

"Not yet," Peeta said.

"I hope he arrives here soon, Crane just walked in."

Katniss and Peeta ran down from the steps to join the fray.

Across the bailey, Crane walked toward the frey feeling giddy. "This is what I foresaw in my visions."

Beside him, the King grunted. "The day will be won when King Daniel's crown is in my hand and his head is posted on a spike."

Crane nodded and watched the King ride off to fight.

Apollo rushed by him, he was followed by a man on a horse. Crane calmly walked toward the palace. He blasted his way through the crowd.

The cries of the men grew until it was a disharmonious cacophony. He could hear the clang of metal as men fought and he could also hear the groan of death as King Daniel's men fell. He hoped Snow was pleased by the sound of defeat.

Unconcerned with the reserve of his magical core Crane began to use his magic freely. They were winning, King Snow's army outnumbered King Daniel's forces.

Victory was within their grasp.

Snow's army poured into the bailey. They were clad in a white tunic underneath their armor. Those who fought under King Daniel's banner wore a washed-out red tunic that looked orange.

Katniss didn't fail to notice the irony that they were wearing Peeta's favorite color. A burly man came toward her wielding an ax. She nocked an arrow and shot him in the neck. She used her magic to pierce the armor Snow's army wore.

Katniss turned and saw one of Snow's men running toward King Daniel, Katniss quickly shot him down. She made a point to keep an eye out on King Daniel as he fought. It wouldn't bode well to have King Daniel go down, it would immediately forfeit the battle.

Katniss turned her head to find Peeta, as she countered another arrow. There were so many men dressed in white tunics now she lost sight of Peeta. Her heart beat quickly as her magic reached out to him. His warm magical reply caused her to settle. He was near. Her eyes sought to see his beloved face.

Peeta was engaged in a sword fight. They were not far apart, she made sure any opponent near them was vanquished. Peeta thrust his sword and the man fell. He ran to her side.

"There are more coming!" Peeta shouted to her.

Katniss turned to look at the opening, as she nocked another arrow, more of King Snow's army came in like waves of locusts. She saw two men approaching King Daniel from behind; she shot an arrow that pierced both men and downed another that was crossing his path.

"Any sign of Haymitch?" She asked as they withdrew back toward the castle steps.

Peeta briefly looked up. "Not yet."

Peeta jumped in front of and felled another of Snow's men. "Look!" Peeta said, pointing to the bird circling one of the towers. "Haymitch!"

Katniss looked up. The raven's dark wings made it look like a shadow dancing in the moonlight. Haymitch's bird form was landing on the tower. "Let's go into the castle!"

"Okay," Peeta said.

Katniss watched Peeta focus and make a fire with his hands. He began to cast a circle of fire around them, allowing them to move along the fray with total safety. They arrived at the castle. The fighting hadn't spilled inside of the Castle. They were able to run up toward the tower with no fear.

When they reached the tower Haymitch had transformed into his human form and was clothed.

"Well?" Katniss asked.

"They are waiting for a signal to approach. You need to signal now before it's too late. Snow and his men are winning."

Katniss nodded, they were losing this was not part of the plan. She heard the large creak of the siege engine as it released another boulder at the wall. She grinned like the cat that stole the fresh cream. "Peeta, I need to blow up the trebuchets."

"I guess that's the signal," Peeta said.

Katniss didn't listen to Peeta's quip, she turned to her mentor. "Haymitch, find Ryker and Finnick. Let Finnick know to attack when he sees the signal. Have Ryker start setting the barrels on fire as soon as we blow up the trebuchets. "

"Your wish is my command." Haymitch turned himself into a raven once more and flew away to the wall where Ryker was located fending off the men who were climbing the walls.

They set out from the tower. The cries of war could be heard from across the land. The creatures of the forest feared that good would not win that day. They anxiously watched from the tree lines.

On the road, Ryder reached the back of Snow's army. They were moments away from them.

"They are getting massacred," Rook said beside him.

"My brothers are in there, Rook. I want to throw caution to the wind and attack but I have to wait for the signal."

"I understand, I have been fighting Snow and Crane for a long time."

"Then we shall wait," Ryder affirmed.

The horses danced under the Rook's form as the moonlight shimmered from above.

Across the land the moon hung pristinely in the night sky, watching as man once more engaged in war. Twas a sad sight for the light was losing and darkness was encroaching rapidly. It seemed the whole of the world did not want the end of the battle, all nature hoped for a miracle. The moon hung in the night sky listening to the sounds of death.

The sound of soldier's shouts, grunts, and the clash of metal could be heard, on the hilltop. Plutarch and his men waited watching the battle forge forward.

Those who fought for King Daniel were losing. The men on the walls shot down at the infantry that was pouring into the bailey, but their efforts were nil. The crush of Snow's army was greater than the archers that were assembled.

Plutarch was not surprised by the siege engines Snow had gotten his hands on. The man was ruthless when in battle. King Daniel's intrepid endeavor was no match against the siege engines or the might of Snow's army. The force of the blows by the trebuchets was so great that it wouldn't be long before the castle walls came tumbling down.

"Hilarius, keep your arm steady," Plutarch commanded.

"Yes, uncle," Hilarius muttered as he held the lit torch higher.

Using his telescopic device Plutarch spied a column of men waiting to join the fray within the village. However, those men gathered were no match for the sheer number of fighters that were on King Snow's side.

"It's a valiant effort, but they will soon capitulate," Hilarius said by his side.

Plutarch did not respond as he watched a raven approach the castle. It was the same raven he had seen before. Raven's were not used for messages.

Only Queen Paylor had used ravens for messages. His heart raced at the hope that bloomed in his heart at the thought of Paylor somehow coming back to reign.

There was a movement on the steps leading up to the castle.

Plutarch leaned forward. He watched as a solitary cloaked figure stood at the foot of the stairs leading up to the keep. The figure held a bow, with two arrows. Plutarch watched the hood slide down to reveal a girl. With an ease he had only seen in one man she lifted the bow and drew back the two arrows. As she shot the tips of the arrows lit into flames.

The arrows, as if guided by the hands of fate, flew over the wall of the castle and landed on the siege engines just as the walls came down. There was a roar from both armies.

The engines blew up sending a plume of fire, ash, and smoke into the sky. As if the girl knew she was being watched she turned to face the spot where Plutarch stood with his telescopic device.

It was the face of the young lad he had met earlier. The girl had cleverly hidden herself to look like a boy. She had spoken with that authority that only Paylor had, she even looked like a young Paylor. Plutarch cursed his earlier stupidity.

That girl was the prophecy. She was from the line of Everdeen, a child who was the mirror of Paylor.

"The battle isn't over, boy," Plutarch said walking to his horse.

"Are we joining the fray uncle?" Hilarius asked as he doused his torch.

"We are," Plutarch said once mounted.

"Are we fighting for our King?"

"No, we are fighting for our Queen," Plutarch said. He lifted his sword into the night air and shouted, "We fight for our Queen, descendant of the most honorable house of Queen Paylor."

His men shouted and rode off after Plutarch, as the smoke and ash lifted up in the air. Even in the darkness, the plume of fire and smoke rose covering the moonlight. The flames were like two visible beacons from above and for those near the castle. Snow's army was in disarray as suddenly explosions went off in the field just outside of the moat.

From the road, Eragon saw the fireball and subsequent explosions. He grinned to himself, immensely proud of his daughter. He could picture Snow's and Crane's horror by the fact no matter how hard they tried the prophecy was going to come true.

Eragon couldn't wait to move his own mount forward to enter the battle. He wanted Crane and Snow to pay for the injustice and terror that they spread throughout the land. He wanted to reap vengeance for the lives of his wife and smallest child.

Besides him, Ryder shouted, "FOR FREEDOM!"

The smoke licked the sky. The earth trembled beneath the feet of the warriors fighting in the bailey at the explosions Ryker and his men were setting off. Katniss stood at the top of the stairs. Her back was straight, her arms extended with the bow looking like the goddess of war. The fighting stopped, and the men in the bailey zeroed in on her. Her hood had slipped down, allowing the moonlight to bathe her face.

"It's Paylor," the men who fought for Snow began to say in awe.

"Paylor's ghost," others cried.

"Paylor has returned," others said.

The whispers reached Katniss's ears.

Katniss turned to Peeta, his eyes were aglow with awe. She waved her hand, and Peeta manipulated a ball of flame in her hand.

It was Ryker's signal. He began setting fire to the barrels filled with something Haymitch said was highly flammable. Finnick came out of the city with his group and poured into the bailey. The fighting commenced.

Katniss walked down the steps. Thanks to Peeta's manipulation she was surrounded by flames but they did not lick at her clothing or skin. They branched out all around her, consuming everything that she passed. A great cry could be heard as her father's men arrived outside of the castle. Now there was fighting outside of the castle and in the bailey.

Plutarch and his men joined the fray, but they turned their weapons on to Snow's men.

Crane and Haymitch were engaged in a battle. Crane began to weave a spell at Haymitch. "CRANE!" she shouted, drawing his attention.

"YOU!" Crane shouted.

Katniss nocked an arrow and launched it at Crane as he launched the spell he had been conjuring for Haymitch toward her. Katniss didn't flinch; she met the blow, recalling Haymitch's lesson. She threw up a shield and his magic fizzled around her person. His eyes widened.

Katniss began attacking him along with Haymitch. Crane, although weakened, was still strong. She had to put up a shield to protect herself against Crane's attack.

"NO!" Her father cried as he came through the wall. "Protect her!"

Sir Chaff ran toward her. Crane aimed shot after magical shot at her. Her shields were weakening.

Goodwine Chaff shouted, "For my Queen!" As he threw himself in front of one of Crane's magical blows aimed at Katniss.

"NO!" Katniss cried.

At the same time a red-headed man, who wore a red and silver tunic, launched his ax at Crane. However, Crane stopped the ax in mid-flight and sent it flying back at the red-headed man. The ax struck him in the chest.

"JASPER DARIUS NO!" Dolphus shouted. He began running toward Crane with his sword unsheathed. Dolphus could not penetrate Crane's shields.

Katniss noticed that Crane became even younger-looking. The time to get rid of Crane was at hand. She looked about the battlefield for Peeta.

Suddenly Peeta joined in and so did Ryker, all of them combined were too much for Crane. Fire flew from Peeta's and Ryker's hands, lightning from Haymitch's, yellow from her father, and blue bursts from Katniss's hands. The fighting around them continued but their side was winning. She looked up at the moon and saw a Pegasus flying, it was a sign that the time for her to engage against Crane without assistance was at hand.

Peeta materialized by her side. He grasped her hand, and she could feel his gentle assurance and energy seep into her tired core. It was the magical boost she needed.

"CRANE!" Katniss shouted.

The battle around them stopped as they saw how Katniss's hair seemed charged and blew in the wind. The sky above began lightening, and the sun began to rise.

"This battle is between you and I," Katniss said. She was determined to finish this fight. To end the cruelty and tyranny, this man began years ago.

Crane was panting. He wiped his face, "Agreed."

A wide circle was made to watch Katniss and Crane battle. A tall giant stood looking at everyone. The giant removed its helmet and long blond hair fell down the giant's shoulders.

"Kill him," the giant said.

"Lyme," Crane shouted angrily. He shot the giant with a red flash of magic, the giant blocked his attack with the shield. Crane took a knife from his belt and threw it at Lyme.

The knife pierced the armor and struck Lyme in the shoulder. The giant grunted as it fell to the ground wounded.

"NO!" Hilarius shouted coming to the side of the giant.

"I will end you as I have done to others," Crane smirked.

Katniss did not speak, only gave him a steely look, she ducked when he sent the first bolt. The battle between them was fierce.

However, Katniss recalled the lessons of Haymitch. She did not use her considerable reserves of magical energy. She was deflecting, playing to her defenses. Using columns and other barriers to absorb Crane's magical strikes.

Somehow Katniss ended up on the stairs once more battling Crane. She watched him become younger and younger. She threw one more blue bolt and suddenly he crumpled on the floor. He looked now like a lad no older than ten-and-five years.

Snow's men, seeing that Crane had been defeated, began to run out of the bailey. The tide of the battle swung in Katniss's favor. King Snow, who had been battling outside of the Castle walls ran inside with a few of his men.

"I order you to fight!" Snow ordered.

Snow's forces once numbered in the thousands, but now numbered in the hundreds. Katniss's forces outnumbered them and only a handful fought while the majority left.

"FIGHT!" King Snow bellowed, "I ORDER YOU TO FIGHT!"

Katniss turned her attention to King Snow.

Snow ran toward her, his sword held aloft, to strike her.

Katniss aimed her arrow. It flew and pierced Snow's eye. He fell on the floor. When Snow died a great jubilant cry was heard from forces that fought under the banner of freedom. Katniss saw a movement from the corner of her eye.

Crane was standing, his hands positioned to throw a spell at her. But suddenly he began to foam at the mouth, and blood flowed from his lips. A small lad crossed the field and went to Crane's side.

"Page," Crane gasped.

"Sire?"

"Help," he croaked.

His page began laughing in Crane's face. "You killed my family. I've been poisoning you with nightlock and you have been foolishly consuming it…" his page removed the cap to reveal spiky brown hair. "My name is Johanna, my father was a Mason, and my mother and sister were sweet and meek. Yet you smote them because they had a spark of magic. I swore to kill you and avenge my family's death."

Crane gasped and his eyes widened as he took his last breath.

A burst of energetic magic exploded around them. Katniss flinched when she felt the burst of wind flow outward as if a bubble had broken. She was instantly transported into a room where it was just her and Haymitch. There were ribbons and doors around her, she could see a huge hourglass and Haymitch walked through the glass into the middle of the sand. Haymitch's hands began circling around an orb and she could see the way the ribbons of time flowed from the orb. Six different ribbons began to flow to her mentor.

"...tempus desinit, tempus incipit et tempus corrigit cum nix et Grus hac terra recedunt…," Haymitch said.

Katniss understood some of what he was saying. It occurred to her that Haymitch was trying to righten the timeline. The lines coiled around Haymitch's form.

They were too strong for him to control. Katniss walked into the hourglass and took control of the orb from Haymitch.

"Tempus desinit, tempus incipit et tempus corrigit cum nix et Grus hac terra recedunt," Katniss repeated.

The flow of sand stilled and she was able to weave the timelines together. Suddenly all of the lines converged and one line flowed. Katniss found herself standing once more on the steps of the castle.

Crane's lifeless body was strewn on the floor and Snow's body was where her arrow had struck it. Katniss made contact with Haymitch who looked relieved.

As they stood there, the men looked shocked as they came to realize the battle was over. White sparks began to seep out of Crane's chest. It formed into a white form. It floated to Haymitch and surrounded him.

"Maysilee," Haymitch said brokenly.

The white form then slowly disappeared.

"Her essence and power had been trapped within Crane," Haymitch said. Haymitch's other half was one of the many Snow's and Crane's victims. Maysilee's soul was now free to rest in peace.

Eragon clasped Haymitch's shoulder and lifted three fingers into the air to show his solidarity. Various people followed suit. Haymitch gently wept.

Katniss felt familiar arms wind themselves around her. She melted into Peeta. The dawn approached and the gentle rays of the morning sun bathed the bailey.

"Your Highness, forgive this old fool," Plutarch said, kneeling before her. He held the crown that Snow had unjustly worn before her. "You are the rightful ruler. I am sorry I did not see it before."

Katniss looked to Haymitch and her father who plucked the crown from Plutarch's hands. Her father smiled at her as he held the crown.

There before all the courageous men and women gathered her father lifted the crown above her head. Katniss lowered her head as before the gathered mass, Haymitch fitted the crown upon her head.

The jewel began to glow.

"LONG LIVE THE QUEEN!" King Daniel shouted.

Soon jubilantly voices join King Daniel, repeating the joyous shout. It was as if the chains that were oppressing all of the land were broken and the people were now set free. Men who had moments before been engaged in battle now clasped each other in forgiveness. They humbled themselves and on bended knees swore fidelity to the true ruler of who made the jewel of Panem light up once more.

The ancient creatures of the forest slowly emerged. Men stood still at the sight of unicorns and other long-forgotten magical creatures marched toward the castle. They wanted to greet their champion and protector. A pegasus flew down from the heavens and bowed before Katniss. In awe, the crowd gasped.

"Fletcha!" Ryder's voice boomed in the bailey. "You're a girl?"

Finnick grinned, "No she's our Queen."


I can't believe it's nearly finished. Thank you to lemonluvgirl and sommmee for proofreading the chapter before it was finished. And thank you to my beta Jrosely. All three of you were wonderful in reading, editing, and making suggestions on how to make this last chapter better. I hope my bestie enjoys this last chapter.

Only have one more chapter - see you next week!