Blaine Abernathy: A Canary Caged
Disclaimer: I do not own The Hunger Games
Chapter 30: The Victor's Banquet
Blaine's POV
Districts Three, Two, and One went well. Then again, District 3 had their noses in their inventions. During the tour, we were led into a lab. And for the first time ever, a victor was present. Although, I don't think the peacekeepers ever consider this victor a threat. It was none other than Hacker.
Hacker had his back turned until hearing the commotion of the reporters in the lab. He came out ready to chew them out for the noise until seeing Katniss and Peeta. The man of science simply greeted them courteously before returning to his lab. I thought I heard him mutter, "Not gonna bother." I merely chuckled. The Peacekeepers didn't bother as well, as the head scientist continued the tour.
I glanced over at Hacker. He showed the physical attributes of being from District 3. As he had black hair and ashen skin. He was in his late twenties or early thirties, winning his game at the 59th annual Hunger Games, making him a decade older than I. He was probably fifteen or sixteen…then again, he had his birthday during the game.
His game was not a very productive game. The theme was a burning desert. He did everything he could to survive, making himself shade using a tarp in his pack. He slept during the day and traveled by night. He used many methods to preserve water, even licking his sweat or…. filtering his urine. Hacker was not a warrior; he was a scavenger. Throughout his game, he sketched a mental map of the arena, locating where mutts were. If Careers were after him, he ran for his life, leading them to the mutts and dodging in random pits. He only had two physical kills; he found a tribute dying from venom and made a mercy kill. And his final kill when he and a male tribute from District 7 duel it out. Hacker managed to get his knife into the tribute's neck before rolling away and running. Not even bothering to confirm a kill. He ran for his life, not able to hear the cannon fire. It wasn't until Claudius Templesmith's voice boomed out, declaring his victory, he stopped.
Ever since then, Hacker evaded from going to the Capitol. Never mentored or even considered attending any special events. His mind was a great tool. He invented gadgets nonstop, the first being a water filtration for the outer districts. Hacker never stay in one area. One invention could be medical, while the next be technical. From what Wiress and Beetee said a few months ago, he was building a chip that correlates to a bionic eye to help the blind or at least those who physically lost their eye.
So, seeing him was rare since I only saw him twice. The first was during my Victory Tour. He gave me a simple greeting and a note on breathing exercises for panic attacks. The second was him creating a holographic image during my concert called Luminary. Where I had to sing more pop music. Although Hacker stated, he preferred my first album, Songs of the District, which was more folk-based.
A part of me wanted to walk up to him, yet a peacekeeper directed me to keep moving.
Next was District 2, as we had a tour of the masonry where stones from the earth were being carved into slabs. Once more, none of the Victors were present. Yet Katniss was disturbed as a girl who gave her flowers said, "One day, I'm gonna volunteer. Just like you did." Katniss didn't know how to respond, so Peeta escorted her away to give the speech.
Afterward, it was District 1, the last district to attend. Again, no Victors were in attendance. As the excuse was Gloss, Cashmere, and Augustus were in the Capitol doing a photoshoot. Or were paid to be prostituted.
Either way, tensions were high.
.o0o.
The team was back at the Capitol for the Victory Tour Banquet and Interview with Caesar Flickerman that'll be posted tomorrow. I sat on the couch with Cinna as she showed me his new designs for the next dress idea. The creativity and imagination Cinna possesses have fascinated me compared to the other designers. When he flipped the page, a new chariot outfit appeared to be a black gown with T-neckline. Although he showed me an alternative if the tribute was younger, having a thick halter neckline.
"More flames?" I asked.
"I don't know," Cinna replied. "Trying to stay away from the coal mining suit."
"Why not coal," I suggested. "I remember Chanel making the top part of my old outfit out of small pieces of coal."
Cinna thought about it as he wrote, "Coal?" In his sketchbook. He continued to flip through the pages when something caught my eye, and I stopped him. It was white with a fur sample, it almost resembled a cloak, but before the actual detail could be seen, Cinna closed the sketchbook. I protested when he pointed at Katniss and entered the sitting room with a grave face. She sat next to Peeta, who looked disappointed in himself.
Haymitch was not pleased with how the tour was going. None of us were, not even Effie, as she could sense the love between the two victors was dwindling. She excused herself, saying she was going to powder her nose. Once she was gone, Haymitch gave a glance to Cinna that read he needed a private talk with us Victors. Cinna took the hint as he excused himself and left. Once alone, Haymitch held his drink, glaring at the two.
"Snow is watching us," Haymitch announced. "If he wants you to pacify the districts, I promise you, he's not happy. Instead of being in love, you two sound like you're reciting from a drilling manual."
"You try reading that stuff that Effie writes us," Peeta countered.
"I have," I said. "And you all read it like a monotone robot. The Outer Districts could tell you were faking it. The last four bought it. Then again, they have more ties to the Capitol."
Both Katniss and Peeta bowed their heads, ashamed.
"Haymitch informed me of the situation. How will you impress President Snow when you see him in two days from now."
"I'm open to suggestions," Peeta countered, looking at me desperately.
"We could get married," Katniss suggested.
What she said shocked everyone in suggesting a public marriage proposal. It took a moment and a serious conversation to discuss this. Hello, they're not even seventeen! Even Haymitch was not impressed as he took a swig of his drink.
"That's not funny," I said.
Katniss looked at me, "I'm serious. It's like what Haymitch said, we're on this train forever. It's gonna happen eventually. Why not now?"
Haymitch bitterly chuckled, "It does make a statement. I'll give you that."
"They're sixteen," I reminded. "Make it a promise proposal."
"A promise ring does nothing," Haymitch countered and looked at Peeta.
Peeta's expression was neutral, but I could sense he didn't want to do it. Not like this. Not so soon. With irritation, he said, "Yeah, sure. Let's do it."
However, Peeta agreed to the idea before disappearing into his room. Katniss was about to follow him, but Haymitch stopped her, saying he needed to be alone.
"I thought he wanted it, anyway," Katniss said.
"Not like this," Haymitch replied. "He wanted it to be real."
Effie had returned, thus ending our conversation.
"I think it's best we all go to bed," I suggested standing up.
"Agreed," Effie said. "Tomorrow is a big, big, big day!"
After saying good night, I went to my room and pulled out my new tablet from the Gamemakers. It was more than a simple computer that let me search prices during the game and check on tributes. It held wireless communication. I pressed on the app of a white rose on the corner, which turned the screen black with a loading visual until ready for response:
What news do you bring, Canary?
I took a deep breath and typed down the current event.
Everdeen suggested a public announcement of an engagement, sir.
Thank you for your cooperation.
I sighed, about to turn off the tablet, when more words appeared.
What would your father think if he knew the actions you have committed?
Blood is thicker than water, sir. But it doesn't change the fact of who holds the absolute power.
You are adaptable. Goodnight Canary.
Goodnight, President Snow.
Logging off the app, I tossed the tablet on the bed and covered my face. I hated myself for what I had become. I didn't want to betray my friends. I didn't want to expose Katniss and Peeta. But I had no choice. If I didn't, the people I cared for in District 12 would be targeted. Hell, there could be another mining accident.
The tears fell as I cried quietly.
"I hate this," I whispered to myself. "I hate myself."
As I sat there all alone.
.o0o.
The last Interview was set on stage in front of the Training Center on the night of the victory. The now purple-haired and dark metallic suit, Caesar flawlessly guided the star-crossed lovers through the Interview. I sat in the mentor's booth, watching the show in pure loathing. It's not biased in holding a grudge on this poor excuse in manipulating Panem for the false love that one can't exchange, but something else.
As I watched, Peeta pulled out a ring that Effie managed to get under short notice. Katniss continued her act as she placed her hand over her heart, smiling. Meanwhile, Caesar stood there, being over dramatic on the proposal.
Prejudice towards Katniss Everdeen in the hell she put me and so many others through. Seneca was dead because of her. It was her fault that I was now in this disposition as she acted so innocent when she was selfish. Maybe not selfish as a career, but selfish on different terms that make me sick.
Then all of a sudden, President Snow made a surprise visit to congratulate the newly engaged couple. He slaps Peeta on the back and then embraces Katniss in a hug. Examining her tense posture, the President held her arm longer as they looked into each other's eyes. For a slight moment, fear crossed Katniss Everdeen's face after President Snow shook his head. It didn't work. The engagement didn't convince him, not at all.
President Snow raised his hand, silencing the audience. "What do you think about us throwing them a wedding right here in the Capitol?"
Caesar Flickerman asked about the date.
"Oh, before we set the date, we better clear it out with Katniss's mother," the President said. The audience laughed at his joke. "Maybe if the whole country puts its mind to it, we can get you married before you're thirty."
I doubt it, I thought.
If Katniss doesn't keep her promise, she will most likely die before she reaches twenty. I glanced at Haymitch, who noticed this as well. Our hands were full. Otherwise, Peeta will end up a widow before reaching the altar. And a year later, President Snow will find another usage from him besides his paintings.
I mentally groaned, feeling the pressure on my shoulders.
.o0o.
The next day everyone was getting ready for the banquet. I spent the morning going over etiquette with them. Explaining the Victory Banquet will not be like the District Dinners. The elite families, politicians, gamemakers, sponsors, and socialites will be attending. It was essential to keep the charade, for these people could be lifelines in saving future tributes.
Katniss scowled while Peeta nodded.
Thankfully their prep team arrived to prepare them for the banquet.
I spent my afternoon getting ready. Meanwhile, the screen on rewatching the Last Interview recaps with Caesar Flickerman. Caesar is on the screen, full of excitement, reshowing the proposal.
"Just when you thought things couldn't get more exciting going into a very special Quarter Quell, our two lethal lovers…my favorite expression," Caesar laughed in the last part, then continued. "…From District 12 has surprised us with a new twist in their love affair. Let's take a look."
Once more, the proposal was played.
"A fairy tale ending for two star-crossed lovers. That's beautiful. Beautiful. And then tonight, the tour that began in the hollows of District 12 will end where? The Presidential Palace."
I stopped applying my lipstick. "If only they knew."
I sighed, looking at myself in the mirror. Flavius, one of Cinna's Prep Team members, had come over to do my hair, putting it in an elaborate updo. Afterward, he left, saying he needed to get Katniss done. I merely nodded, before doing my makeup, keeping it to the Lady of Ashes motif. After applying the lipstick, I got up and put on the dress.
For once, it was black and gold. The bodice has a dramatically plunging v-neckline and luscious lace elbow-length sleeves with sophisticated pleated accents. The skirt was a dark shade of brocade gold that sparkles with gilded adornments and shimmers to the long high-low silhouette hem in rich, paisley patterned waves that almost resemble feathers. I put the dress on, noticing the massive cleavage, and put on a necklace to provide some distraction. Followed by simple black heels. I glanced at myself and sighed, hoping this would not distract me from the actual victors.
When I got out, Haymitch almost spewed his drink. But he didn't say anything as Katniss came out wearing a black dress adorned in a tight pattern with accents. She had cap sleeves that were made of feathers. As for the skirt, it had an ombre effect from solid to sheer down to her feet. Peeta wore a dark metallic gray suit while his hair was gelled back. However, Effie was a shocker. As she came out wearing a massive lavender frilly dress of tulle.
Before anyone could speak, she escorted us into the limo where Hermes was waiting.
It wasn't long before we reached our destination. As a Avox opened the door, we all got out with the paparazzi and news reporters taking our pictures. When we passed the gate, the Peacekeepers closed the door. Effie took the lead, with Katniss and Peeta on each side behind her, while Haymitch and I kept our distance though following along.
"The Presidential Palace," Effie praised. "The party of the year. Eyes bright. Chins up. Smiles on. I'm talking to you, Katniss."
I snorted at that.
We were getting closer to the estate.
"Now, there'll be photographers. Interviews." Effie continued. "Everyone will be here to celebrate you. My Victors."
Effie stopped watching the banquet happening with joy. Then again, it has been almost five years since she last was here.
"Breathe it all in, children," Effie murmured, facing the Star-Crossed Lovers. "This is all for you."
"It's cozy," Peeta muttered.
Effie scowled at that, "Attitude." She then faced the mansion. "Come, come."
Haymitch and I snorted as we gestured for the victors to follow along.
Once we got to the banquet, Haymitch vanished into the crowd. I was following the victors when people pulled me aside. I watched them go further into the crowd as Peeta took hold of Katniss's hand. As long as those two sticks together, they should be fine.
I socialized with the guests, being polite while keeping to the act. Everyone congratulated me for guiding the Star-Crossed Lovers to their victory and my first win as a Mentor. I smiled and thanked them. It was like this for the next hour.
Needing some air, I took a break finding an area to breathe while keeping a close eye on Katniss and Peeta. An Avox came by with a tray of drinks. I grabbed one and thanked them quietly. Surprised, they smiled softly behind that strange mask before walking away. I held my glass, seeing it was posca, a water-down wine with honey and herbs, for the light drinkers. I took a sip, finding it easy to drink.
It wasn't long before I heard footsteps approach me as the person leaned into my ear.
"And why is such a beautiful yellow bird alone in this timely cage?" Murmured a husky voice.
A shiver of disgust went down my spine.
"Hello, Augusta," I muttered, not looking at Caesar's son.
Augusta was one of my clients who had an obsession with me. He was my first sexual client, taking my virginity. He's the type who pursues and gets what he wants with money and riches. And he almost had it too, making me a regular, until Seneca stepped in, paid many dates, and bought my sexual freedom. Otherwise, I would have been a prostitute to Augusta with more bruises than ever before.
Finnick had declared him a sexual deviant.
"Ah, still babysitting, I see?" Augusta toyed, standing beside me, seductively tracing his hand over the back of my neck.
I ignore him as I watch Peeta escorting Katniss to the dance floor. Flavius and Octavia had insisted on them trying a macaron, yet Peeta had refused. Until Flavius handed Peeta a glass with clear liquid. The Vomit Shot, as Johanna liked to call it. It makes the drinker vomit so they can continue eating. Many find it disgusting since some Districts were starving and the Capitol was gluttonous. Peeta declined and led Katniss to the dance floor.
"Aren't they a little young to get married," Augusta said as his hand slid on my ass, about to squeeze it, except I grabbed his wrist, glaring at him. Augusta was a twenty-five-year-old womanizer with no resemblance to his father. From all the plastic surgery the Capitol is used to knowing, there was no trait of biological genetics except for blood. His facial features are perfect and angular - high cheekbones, a strong jawline, a straight nose, and full lips. Bright eyes that were impossible to detect actual color for they changed in different lighting while golden hair groomed back. He wore a black suit with pinstripes and a purple tie.
"Well, I'm not their mother." I shot back, shoving his hand away.
"Still feisty as ever, I see," he cooed.
"Is that what you told Hera and Demeter," I spat. "What do you want?"
"Just came to say hello," he said. "Also, rumor is that you are no longer dating and focusing on your music. Shame, especially after what happened to Seneca. Unless there's another lucky fella?"
"There's nobody," I answered. "Even if there was, the first moment I met you, you're arrogant and conceited. Your selfish disdain for the feelings of others made me realize that you were the last man in Panem I could ever consider for any companionship. Especially after what you have done to me."
Augusta pierced his lips, "You are one lucky bird to have free will to speak to me like that. Being the president bird and all. Although, I do miss tying you up."
I glared at him. The last time we were intimate, it was a paid prostitution night. He had tied me up in different positions and hurt me badly. Using sexual tools that brought pleasure and pain. However, all I felt was pain and frustration. My body was bruised, and I couldn't walk when I returned to the Training Center. The Avoxs had to take care of me. To which I was thankful for. A few days later, Seneca paid for a coffee date…he must have seen a marking and heard the rumors that he bought me the most ever since then. That was a year ago.
I turn my attention to Katniss and Peeta. Augusta followed my stare as well.
"Well, there goes another chance with a female victor," Augusta muttered.
"You're disgusting," I hissed.
"Ah, but it doesn't stop the value of money," he countered.
"And what would happen if money ends up being nothing," I said, clenching my fist.
Augusta gave me a dark look. "It's money that keeps this country going."
"You're wrong," I said and regretted it as he shoved me into a pillar away from the audience's view and pinned me down.
"Then tell me, Canary, what is better than money?" He demanded.
"Hope…" the word slipped out, and that horror consumed me while I held a strong poker face. "You will be surprised by what an idea can do."
Augusta sneered, pulling back, "You better know your place, Canary. Otherwise, what you are protecting won't be worth it anymore."
"Like you know," I spat.
Augusta didn't reply, instead gave a shove before leaving. Leaving me alone in the corner. I took several deep breaths feeling the anxiety.
All I can do is focus on my mission and try to protect everyone as possible.
The sound of the anthem played as all the attention went to the mansion. Everyone clapped as President Snow came out pleased as he welcomed his guests. He then began his speech.
"Tonight, on this, the last day of their tour, I want to welcome our two Victors. Two young people who embody our ideals of strength and valor. And I, personally, want to congratulate them on the announcement of their engagement."
The guests applauded.
President Snow stared at the young couple, "Your love has inspired us. And I know it will go on inspiring us every day for as long as you may live."
He raised his glass. The guest cheered as those who had a glass raised theirs. All oblivious to the message that President Snow had given. Soon fireworks went off, distracting the guests to turn around. However, I kept my eyes on President Snow as he stared at Katniss, who looked back at him. He shook his head.
She had failed.
.o0o.
Later on, throughout the party, it was your typical Victor's banquet at President Snow's mansion. The grand illusion of heaven as a musician floated on clouds that I had to hold back a scoff. It wasn't long before men asked me to dance. Names were useless since there was no purpose when they changed their appearances on a daily basis. Once the song ended, I excused myself and headed toward the buffet. There were countless options for eating, so I grabbed a small portion and walked toward a table.
"May I join you?" asked another Gamemaker.
"If you like," I replied in my charades. He was a large man with platinum blonde hair. The new Head Gamemaker, Plutarch Heavensbee. "Nice to meet you again, Heavensbee."
"Likewise, Blaine," Plutarch said, sipping his wine. "How have you been?"
"I'm doing excellent, sir." I lied.
"I noticed your new records have intrigued the adolescence in the Capitol." He noted with a laugh, "Including some new singles?"
"You know I can't tell you," I snickered.
"Simon?"
"Simon," I agreed, mentioning Simon, the Capitol's most famous music producer in Panem, if not more.
Plutarch and I just held a simple conversation, though some topics were…. unusual compared to the previous discussion. Cinna and Portia soon joined us, and Portia offered the new Head Gamemaker if he liked to meet the victors. Plutarch said that would be lovely, leaving Cinna and me alone.
"Is it me, or are we being set up?" I asked bluntly.
"I believe so," Cinna agreed.
I chuckled. After Cinna confessed his identity, our friends tried to get us alone in public. Well, Effie and Portia have, while Haymitch just shrugged. So, we keep our friendship neutral in public. Cinna offered a hand, asking for a dance. Nodding, I accepted his offer as he led us toward the center of the dance floor. Dancing to a simple waltz, his hand on my waist while the other held my hand as I grasped his shoulder. Green eyes stayed focused on my livid blue eyes, seeing the veil of masked emotions that was difficult to decipher.
Cinna leaned closer to whisper in my ear, "What are you thinking?"
"Trying to figure you out," I answered.
He smiled, "And have you found anything?"
"None so far," I said when he suddenly dipped me when the music changed.
"Maybe there are things you are not meant to know," he murmured.
I glared at him, "Wrong dance position for a waltz."
Cinna gave his signature smile, fixed our posture, and followed the music. "You act like you're being watched. I think there's more you are hiding secrets than me alone."
"I'm adaptable," I whispered in his ear. "And it's best to not get your nose into it."
"What do you mean?"
"You will be surprised by the knowledge I possess that could parish another great empire."
"You are in deep with the wrong people." Cinna whispered, pulling back as he gave me a concerned look.
"You don't know a thing about me." I countered. "And you better watch your tongue in certain areas. People might consider you…" as I leaned up and whispered in his ear, "A rebel."
A hand tapped on Cinna's shoulder to be President Snow. "May I cut in?"
Cinna obeyed and let President Snow into the next dance. The air around us became tense in the waltz as we looked each other hard in the eyes. A warning projected in those snake eyes, "You look lovely, Blaine."
"Thank you, sir," I replied calmly.
"I see you and your stylist Cinna have taken an infatuation with each other far greatly," he said.
"I wouldn't disagree with you, sir," I said with a fake chuckle for the public or curious ears.
President Snow smiled, "That's nice to hear. It would be a surprise if the stylist and singer on the same team collaborated and became official."
"Seems somebody has ideas," I breathed, though I panicked mentally, hoping not to get Cinna deeper into the discussion.
Once the song ended, President Snow stepped back and kissed my hand. He looked sharply into my face and touched my ear where the snowdrop earrings were. "What lovely earrings."
"Thank you, they were a gift."
"I'm sure the person who gave them to you is proud." And with that said, he left.
I closed my eyes and held back a lone tear. Instead of standing alone on the dance floor, I went to join my father by the bar and get a strong drink. Haymitch ordered a brandy while I had a cosmo. We didn't say anything, just drank away in alcohol. Drowning the guilt out. At midnight, two Capitol attendants came up, announcing it was time to go.
Being giddy, I smiled and jumped onto my feet, ignoring the protest of the force from the heels. At the same time, the two Capitol attendants dragged my intoxicated father. Once we join the others, Effie groans at our state while the two young victors look at me as I sway softly to the music.
"Is she drunk?" Katniss whispered to Peeta.
"I can hear you," I sang.
"Not like skunk as Haymitch," Peeta replied back.
Cinna shook his head and wrapped his arm around my waist. "Like father, like daughter."
.o0o.
Back on the train leaving the station, we sat in the sitting car as Effie discussed and blabbered about the schedule. I was still in my happy mood from the alcohol, not giving a care in the world. Although, Cinna had gotten me some carbs, that I didn't get hung over. Cinna ordered some tea and sat beside me as Katniss and Peeta sat across from the loveseat.
"There's a Festival in District Twelve to think about. So, I suggest we drink our tea and head straight to bed." Effie announced.
I couldn't agree more as I returned to my room and took a long shower, Letting the hot water wash away the makeup, perfume, and exhaustion from my body. After a very long shower, I got out and went into my room to put on a slip when my tablet beeped. An important news announcement. Tapping accept on the screen showed instant news about a riot going on in District 8. The News reporter says the textile district has started a revolt and caused the security to go on a level two alert.
"Level two," I whispered.
The scene changed to showing factory workers storming out of the complex while the assigned peacekeepers tried to contain order. Hearing the local peacekeepers discuss the level stages of riots. One would be people stopping working. Two, the people leave their posts and cause mild damage with protests. But when you get to level three, it's a battlefield. A mob with mass destruction in fire and death.
I hope it doesn't happen.
A knock on the door was heard.
Quickly I turned off the tablet and adjusted my robe before answering the door. It was Cinna.
"Hey, Cinna," I greeted. "What can I do for you?"
"Saw the lights on and wanted to check on you," Cinna replied.
"Thanks for your concern, but I'm fine," I said, leaning against the door.
"Good," Silence between us. This was another awkward situation for both of us. He breathed and leaned down to kiss me on the cheek. "Get some rest, Blaine."
I blushed, "You too. Oh, and Cinna…."
"Yes."
"In a few weeks, I'll be back to the Capitol for a Concert and other events. I was wondering if you wanted to be my escort. It's optional." I said nervously.
He smiled, tucking a strand of hair off my face, stroking his thumb on my cheek. "As you wish."
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