Welcome back for the fifth chapter of the story! As always, please review!
Disclaimer: I don't own "The Hunger Games" or "Naruto," they belong to their respective owners.
The Heart Yearns
It had been six months since both tributes from District Twelve had returned as victors. In those six months, their relationship had gotten stronger and they slowly adjusted to their new homes.
Oftentimes, Naruto would sleep on Edwin's couch with permission from the man of course. He just hated sleeping in that new home alone… it felt empty.
Edwin felt bad for the kid so he often obliged, not wanting to see his student suffer alone. He did so much for others and only had a few people he could rely on in return.
Naruto did try to make his new home as hospitable as he could. He filled it up with pictures of his parents that he gathered from his old home. He often invited Peeta's family over to enjoy meals… but it was never enough. He always felt alone at the end of the day.
As for Katniss, she was slowly adjusting but in a better way. The spoils given to her and Naruto had been contributed to their District.
Unfortunately, this created some unexpected consequences.
After their ending at the Games and Naruto's wish to help the other Districts, Snow decided to place some safeguards.
He had directed many more Peacekeepers in District Twelve alongside building new detainment centers. People were punished if they were out past curfew or caught doing anything illegal.
In Naruto's mind, it seemed as if Snow was paranoid, aiming to crush their spirit for some reason. If only he knew the paranoia going on in the man's mind.
The Seam, Hob, and Market sections of District Twelve were heavily patrolled each day for any signs of rule-breakers.
Naruto and Katniss hated these changes.
Today was a different day, however, as Katniss was hunting once again with Gale.
Gale had been working full-time in the coal mines to help provide for his family so he hadn't had the time to hunt as often.
Katniss was not able to see Gale often, if at all, due to his job. This was a rare day.
Gale had agreed to Katniss's request to go hunting because he wanted to speak to the girl. There were many things on his mind.
As for Katniss, she wanted to use this time to break to Gale that she was now in a committed relationship.
Releasing another arrow into a nearby deer, Katniss smirked. The animal had been hit dead center and dropped.
Skinning, gutting, and cooking the animal, both people began to speak.
They sat next to each other on a log, slowly roasting the freshly killed deer.
"So," Gale spoke as he roasted the venison over the fire they had, "What did you want to talk about?"
Katniss cleared her throat, "I wanted to say that… I had feelings for you before I left… and I don't know if you did too…"
Gale responded after a brief pause, "…I did…."
"But now… I'm with Naruto…"
Gale finally snapped, "But you don't have to be!"
Feeling startled, Katniss looked over at her friend.
"I know you played up the romance for the cameras, to get support in the games," Gale said, "But now that you are free and don't have constant death looming over you, you don't have to be with him."
Not liking where this conversation was going, Katniss spoke, "Listen, Gale, I-"
"No Katniss," Gale said with fever, "I don't want you to be with him simply because you feel like you owe it to him."
"I'm not with him because he saved my life," Katniss snapped back, "I'm with him because he cares for me. I can laugh with him, I can sleep in his arms. He gives me… hope. Hope that there's a shining light in this world."
Gale then turned his body to look at the Girl on Fire, "And you're my hope, Katniss."
Gale then wrapped his hand around Katniss's waist and pulled her in for a kiss.
This floored Katniss, who sat there stunned that Gale would kiss her so suddenly. It lasted only for a second or two, but it was enough for Gale who slowly retracted his lips. She didn't reciprocate at all.
SLAP
Gale's head jerked to the side.
"Listen, Gale," Katniss said while wiping her lips, "I'm in a relationship and you have to respect that."
Looking to see the sun was going down, she continued, "Anyways, I gotta go. I'll see you around Gale."
Standing up abruptly and leaving the venison behind, Katniss walked out of the woods and towards her house.
She didn't feel a spark at all when Gale kissed her. That was the confirmation she needed to know her feelings were pure for her boyfriend.
Walking through the District, Katniss decided it was time to head home. As she did, she saw Naruto and Haymitch speaking on Haymitch's porch.
Both men were in rocking chairs and shared a drink, laughing about something.
Quickly dashing forward, she sat on Naruto's lap and planted a kiss on his lips, desperate to cleanse herself.
"Woah," Haymitch joked with a drunken tone, "You just got here sweetheart, give the man some room to breathe."
After pulling back, Naruto just gave a cheesy grin. Being kissed never got old.
"So what were you two talking about?" asked Katniss while adjusting herself in Naruto's lap.
Haymitch took a swig from his flask, "We were just talking about the Victory Tour you both have to go on in a week. It's gonna be a pain in the ass I'll tell you that."
Naruto nodded, "Haymitch described how we'll be going to each District and giving a speech in each one. Our prep team is going to be arriving in five days to prepare us."
The three then spoke long into the night, having a laugh and sharing memories. It felt like they had known each other for a lifetime.
The hole in Haymitch's heart also started to slowly heal. These kids had brought the best out of him.
"Oh!" Naruto snapped his fingers. He gently scooted Katniss off of him and walked into Haymitch's house. Moments later, he returned with an acoustic guitar.
After taking a few seconds to tune it properly, he sat back down with Katniss.
"Want to hear my new song? I've been working on it for a while now!" Naruto asked excitedly.
He was pushed by Edwin to get a new hobby, something that didn't rely on combat. So, with that in mind, Naruto picked up the guitar. It was easy to get one due to the wealth that comes with being a victor.
After learning notes from the vendor who sold him the guitar, Naruto was ready to practice. He was still new and fresh to the instrument, but he was slowly getting better. Plus, it did help him keep his mind off of the visions of the dead.
Before Naruto could play, Katniss pecked him on the cheek, "I'd love to, but I have to run home. I've been gone all day and Prim's probably worried."
Her sister often had nightmares or panic attacks if she was gone for too long, something that occurred after she left for the Hunger Games.
It had gotten better and was manageable now, but she never wanted to risk it.
Understanding his girlfriend's priorities, Naruto smiled, "No worries, I'll have it ready next time. I may even play better than your singing," he teased.
Rolling her eyes, Katniss said her farewell and departed back home. She opened her door and kicked off her boots at the entrance.
"Welcome home darling," her mother called out from the kitchen.
"Hey Mom," Katniss said while hanging up her coat.
"How was your day? Anything exciting?" Mrs. Everdeen said while holding up a fake smile.
Confused at her mother's behavior, Katniss answered, "Yeah, I went-"
Prim then walked into the room and interrupted her sister, "President Snow is here. He wants to see you."
She couldn't risk her older sister incriminating herself.
Katniss then locked up in fear, wondering what the President of Panem was doing in her house. Prim then directed her to a part of the house that was the library. Walking off, Prim hugged her sister in support.
Taking a deep breath, Katniss opened the door to her indoor library. She walked in to see Snow taking a book off the shelf and inspecting its contents.
"Ahh, Ms. Everdeen," spoke Snow confidently and calmly, "I'm glad you arrived. I was beginning to get worried."
Katniss glanced her eyes over to the desk behind Snow. It had a small device playing a hologram of her and Naruto's near suicide in the arena. Over and over, it replayed.
Putting the book back on the shelf, Snow sat down behind the desk.
"Sit, please," Snow gestured to the chair across from him, "After all, it's your home. I would hate to make you stand."
Clenching her teeth from just being in the man's presence, Katniss pulled out the chair and sat across from him.
Snow then stopped the hologram replay with a click of a button.
"Before we begin, I think it would be best if we agree to not lie. Yes?"
"...Yes, I agree."
"Good," Snow's eyes shined darkly for a second.
Clearing his throat, he spoke on.
"You see Ms. Everdeen, we have an… issue on our hands. A problem that formed from your willingness to die with your tribute partner."
Katniss clenched her hands into fists under the desk.
"Now if Seneca had any thought in his brain, he would have eliminated you then and there…but here you stand, alive and well. I'm guessing you can tell that he's not."
Katniss slowly nodded while keeping eye contact.
"And now you've won, Ms. Everdeen. You put on a conveying show of love and won inside the arena. It was indeed a spectacular showing, many cheered for your name in the Capitol. They all bought your love as if it was real."
Katniss spoke up, "And you?"
Snow smirked, "I believe you've started something you don't realize the implications of," he stood up straighter, "In several Districts, many people viewed the double suicide as an act of rebellion against the Capitol."
This was her worst fear coming true, something that Haymitch warned her about long ago.
"Now that you're home and in good health, others could follow in your footsteps. The example you set shows that anyone could defy the Capitol and get away with it."
"It must be an unstable system if two people willing to die can break it down."
Snow chuckled, "Indeed it is… it's a very fragile system. But you're missing the big picture here Ms. Everdeen, and that's the consequences that resulted from your little stunt in the arena."
Snow stood up and looked out the window with his arms behind his back, "As you can see, monitoring has nearly tripled here in District Twelve…why do you think that is?"
Snow turned to look at her.
"Because you want to make sure nobody else rises."
"Exactly," Snow snarled out with a twitching lip. "You've set a dangerous precedent Ms. Everdeen, and it's up to you to fix it."
This was the out she needed, the solution she yearned for, "How do I fix it then?"
Snow slammed his fist onto the desk, "You FIX it on the Victory Tour. You and Naruto both explain that your final act was an act of love, not defiance."
Katniss jumped slightly at the noise but stayed silent.
"In other Districts, from one to eleven, murmurs have arisen. People speaking about rebellion. It's a dangerous thing.." Snow trailed off.
Snow calmed himself, "Tell me Ms. Everdeen, when did Naruto realize you didn't love him anymore? When will he realize your feelings are not as deep as his?"
"I do love him!" she barked back.
Snow chuckled, "Really? You do?" He started up his hologram once more but this time it was of an image of her "kissing" Gale.
Katniss stood up, "That's not what it looks like!"
Snow laughed, "I agree, but Naruto doesn't know that, does he Ms. Everdeen? I can make it look like you never cared for him if I wanted to."
Looking back out the window, he spoke, "I like that boy, he reminds me a lot of myself at that age. Hopelessly in love with a girl who will eventually strike him down."
"I wouldn't do that," she spoke in a low tone, "I would NEVER do that!"
"We'll see Ms. Everdeen…we'll see…" Snow then pulled out a white rose and laid it on the desk, "If you love him, you'll convince everybody on tour that you're hopelessly in love. Make everyone think that your act of defiance was an act of passion."
Snow then began walking out of the room, his boots making loud impressions on the wooden floor. Just before he turned the doorknob, he said his final words, "Please do convince them, Ms. Everdeen, convince me. If not….then we might just have a war on our hands."
When he was gone, Katniss sat down with her head in her hands. She was freaking out internally.
Snow had walked in and threatened her, and now she had to play ball. The worst thing is that she doesn't think Naruto knows about any of this. About how their act of "defiance" has caused an uproar in other districts.
Five Days Later
Katniss was feeling… calm at the moment. Digesting everything Snow had told her made her feel overwhelmed at the time but spending time with her boyfriend had calmed her back down.
She didn't speak about what Snow said to her because she didn't want to risk him hurting Naruto in some way. She couldn't allow him to hurt her lover.
As both individuals snuggled into each other's embrace on Naruto's living room couch, they heard a knock. Realizing it was Haymitch on the other side, they told him to come in.
"Look who's here!" Haymitch gestured while moving out of the way.
Breaking through, came forth Cinna, Portia, Effie, and their respective prep teams.
"Cinna!" shouted Katniss while running to her stylist. She gave him a big hug which he reciprocated.
Naruto then also walked over, "It's nice to see you again Portia,"
"Likewise," the stylist smiled back.
"We are going to be having our first impression on this victory tour in a matter of hours!" Effie clapped, "Let us get down to business!"
Chuckling at her behavior, Naruto gave Katniss a quick kiss. They would have to separate for now to prepare.
Each victor prepared in their own home, with Prim and Mrs. Everdeen even getting to meet Katniss's prep team. It was joy all around.
Naruto was surrounded by Portia and Haymitch while Cinna and Effie stayed with Katniss.
They would be getting cameras on them soon, they had to look their best.
"Remember," Effie said as Katniss stood by her front door, "Smile, wave, and show them your love! It'll be perfect!"
"Right…just convince the districts we don't want a war…" thought Katniss while wiping the sweat from her palms on her pants.
But Katniss wasn't faking her feelings. She just wanted to be with her boyfriend, take care of her family, and live a happy life. Now she had to quell a rebellion in the mist.
Two robotic cameras were on a swivel system outside the house of Katniss. Naruto was also awaiting his emergence from the house across.
These cameras were meant to film the duo as well as for them to hear Caesar just in case he asked any questions. It would be a live feed directly into his show.
"Welcome everybody!" spoke out Caesar Flickerman as he emerged on stage, "To this year's victory tour!"
"Oh, I hear him!" Effie said with a smile, "Get ready for your cue!"
Once the audience died down, Caesar continued, "This past year, we had one of the most interesting finales ever! Am I right?"
The audience clapped in agreement.
"Both tributes from District Twelve would have rather died than lose one another, truly a heartfelt story," Caesar then intertwined his hands, "We saw their strife, pain, and ultimately, their victory as a nation."
"That's your cue!" Effie said with a grin, "Don't forget to smile!"
Opening the door slightly for Katniss, Effie stepped aside. As Katniss walked out, she realized Caesar was in the middle of introducing her.
"-lease welcome the Girl on Fire, Katniss Everdeen!"
Katniss then put on a bright smile as she walked down the steps of her pouch, facing directly into the camera.
"And do please also welcome, the Golden Boy, Naruto Uzumaki!"
For a brief second, Naruto still hadn't come out. This freaked Katniss out immensely.
"Did Snow get him? Did something happen to him?" she internally asked herself while looking frantic.
Nothing of the sort happened however as Naruto walked out in the next moment with a large smile on his face. He had on a gray winter coat, and wore thick pants, black boots, and a golden belt.
Walking down the steps of his house, he also waved to the cameras. Once he reached Katniss, he placed one hand around her waist and gave her a quick kiss on the cheek.
"Aha!" Caesar cried out, "I love them! Love them!"
Naruto and Katniss then looked directly into the cameras, ready for anything.
"So, how is life back home? Hmm?" Caesar questioned.
"I-it's good, Caesar. We've been doing great." Katniss said with a small stutter, still thinking about Snow's warning. If she didn't convey their love… her family may be at risk.
Naruto smiled, "It's been wonderful Caesar, we couldn't ask for anything better."
"Indeed, and it was all thanks to the Capitol's generosity," Katniss added quickly.
"That sounded… forced?" Naruto thought in confusion. Katniss would normally never say something like that.
"Well, I love to hear it!" Caesar exclaimed, "We'll be checking in with you both throughout the Victory Tour! Until then!"
The cameras then went dead as the feed dropped, indicating they were off the air.
"Are you okay? You sounded unlike yourself?" Naruto asked in concern.
"I'm fine. Just a little nervous for the interview, that's all."
"...okay, but I'm here if you need to talk about anything."
Katniss nodded in assurance, she didn't want to drag Naruto into Snow's threat.
"Okay team, that was amazing!" Effie said as she walked out towards both victors. "Let us get on the train and start this tour!"
Nodding their heads, both victors gathered their belongings from their respective houses and loaded them onto the train. After saying goodbye to her mother and sister for the time being, Katniss joined Naruto inside the train car.
They would be visiting each District one by one until they were complete. Eventually, the entourage group of District Twelve all shuffled inside.
"What do you think this year's Quarter Quell is going to have?" asked Naruto while Katniss leaned into his arms. Both people were leaning on the wall of the train car's dining room.
"I don't know… and I kind of don't want to know…"
Ever since the Games happened, Katniss was sick of anything relating to the event.
Each Quarter Quell happened every twenty-five years and the next one was surely going to be something. They just hoped they didn't have to think about it.
"Fair enough," Naruto hummed back.
As the train car began its journey to their first district, everyone got ready for bed. It was late at night and they wouldn't have to prepare for their first destination for a few hours.
Going to bed together, Katniss and Naruto shared a room. However, this time, it was Katniss who couldn't sleep.
Tossing and turning in her sleep, she decided to get a glass of milk from the refrigerator.
Grabbing the covers off of her, she slowly placed her feet on the ground below. Naruto didn't even flinch because he was in such a deep sleep, something that rarely happened lately. He was always much better at sleeping when Katniss was around.
Opening their bedroom door, she closed it after her with a soft "click."
To her surprise, Haymitch was in the kitchen drinking alcohol and looking out the train car's window. Looking over, he spoke, "Couldn't sleep either?"
"Nope," Katniss shook her head. She decided to forget the glass of milk for now and sit across from her mentor.
Haymitch took another swig of his flask, "Me either."
Silence overtook the room once more as Katniss stared out the window with Haymitch. The constant rushing of trees and flatland filled their view.
"Haymitch," Katniss began, "I need to tell you something."
Haymitch nodded, indicating for her to continue.
"...Snow visited me personally a few days ago…he made me convince the world that my love for Naruto in the Games was genuine and not an act of defiance as some people made it out to be…"
"...Fuck…" was Haymitch's response in disbelief.
"...he told me to make it look convincing on this Victory Tour and I've been trying… but I'm starting to think it's hurting my relationship. I'm holding too many secrets back from Naruto and I don't want him to think I'm trying to be secretive… but I can tell he thinks something is off… I don't know what to do," she confessed.
"Why don't you tell the kid?"
"Because he also threatened to hurt Naruto if I didn't do what he said…I just don't know what to do anymore…"
Katniss burrowed her head into her hands. She just wanted a normal life, to make sure her loved ones were safe, and she got thrust into a rebellion she didn't ask for.
Haymitch sighed, "Keep doing what you're doing. It's clear you both have feelings for each other, keep at it."
Katniss digested everything.
"But I will say this…" Haymitch advised, "…I think it would be best to play this all the way up if Snow's still unconvinced….."
"What do you mean?"
Haymitch then stood up and aimed to go back to bed, "Get married, Katniss."
Katniss stayed there for much of the night thinking over the idea.
The Next Morning
"Hey… Ruto…" Katniss said as both individuals were eating breakfast together. She had come up with the nickname after Naruto had shortened her name to "Kat."
"Hmm?" Naruto said while chewing on some bacon.
"What do you think about… marriage?"
Swallowing his food in surprise, Naruto responded, "I mean I'd love to marry you, but you don't think it's a little too soon to decide that? We've only been dating for about six months now."
Katniss shook her head, "I don't think so. We could die any day and I'd rather spend the rest of my life with someone I love while I can."
Naruto leaned back into his chair, "Woah Kat, I didn't know you were so serious about it…."
He then brought his father's wedding ring from his necklace and looked at it. After clenching it tight, he looked back up at his girlfriend, "If you want to get married…. I think I would like that."
To Naruto, it was a sudden decision, but he also felt that Katniss was his soul mate. Someone who completed him. In his mind, they would eventually reach this decision in the future so it wouldn't hurt to do it sooner.
Katniss smiled but inwardly felt guilty. She wouldn't mind marrying her boyfriend, she truly loved him after all. But it was all being forced much sooner simply because Snow wanted it.
"We're arriving at District Eleven!" Effie shrieked, "Get your game faces on people, it's almost show time!"
Katniss then stood up and gave her boyfriend a peck on the cheek, "Just think about it, okay?"
Naruto nodded, "Okay."
Being transported into an armored truck, both victors were taken to District Eleven's main square. As they walked out of the truck and onto the main stage, they noticed a few things.
"The District almost feels… defeated…" thought the blonde while glancing around.
The security looked overwhelming, even for just a Victory Tour. Many people were harvesting in the background while only a small population of the District was in the audience.
The people looked angry, saddened, and fearful for their lives.
"It reminds me of our District…" Katniss sadly thought. It looks like District Twelve wasn't the only District getting buffed security lately.
The mayor of the District began his announcement, "Please welcome the winners of the 74th Annual Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen and Naruto Uzumaki!"
People clapped but both victors noticed it seemed forced, like they were devoid of any joy.
Standing on stage, Naruto could get a clear view of something that took him by surprise. There, down the main square, was Rue's remaining family. He could see her five siblings and single mother, staring at both him and Katniss.
Rue's image swayed in the back of the family, large for all to see.
"Fuck…" Naruto thought as he swallowed the lump in his throat. He still had nightmares about Rue's death, about how he wasn't there in time. This was going to be hard.
Katniss wasn't taking it any better, as she held back tears upon seeing the girl's image.
Thresh's image was to the side as well, with his parents standing on the platform ahead.
Both victors walked onto the microphone set for them. Naruto would be speaking first so he pulled out the note cards that Effie had arranged for him.
Clearing his throat, he began, "Thank you all for having us, we are honored to be here."
Nobody said anything in the crowd, looking dead inside.
Continuing, he said, "We take great honor in being here."
Once again, the District seemed lifeless.
Deciding that the best course of action would be to speak from the heart, Naruto quietly put down his note cards. Placing them into his right pocket, he once again readdressed the microphone.
"The tributes from District Eleven were both amazing people. Now while I didn't know Thresh very well, I saw the kindness he held for Rue. He was a person with a good heart who was forced to survive."
Taking a pause, he then looked directly at Rue's family, "As for Rue, she was a little girl forced into a game. I constantly have images of her and how I could have saved her… and for that… I apologize to Rue's family for not being there."
"...I'm scared to die…." Rue's words echoed in Katniss's mind.
"Wow," Cinna spoke as the District Twelve team stood backstage and watched the speech through a hologram, "Apologizing for not saving an enemy in a death game shows good character. Not bad."
Haymitch shook his head, "I don't think he's doing it for the cameras, the kid is genuinely remorseful."
"As a token of my regret, I vow to donate one month of my earnings to District Eleven, for the rest of my life. I know this can never replace the pain cause by their deaths, but I would like to help in any way I can."
Naruto didn't need all the wealth being sent his way anyway, as he often offered it to Peeta, Edwin, and others in District Twelve. He had his own money saved, overabundance was never really his style anyway.
If he could help the other Districts, he would.
"Why didn't he stick to the cards I made him!" Effie said in frustration backstage, "He's going completely off script!"
"Can he even do that?" Whispered Cinna to Haymitch.
Haymitch shook his head, "He can't, but the kid just did."
Taking his leave, Naruto left the microphone open for Katniss. Taking a deep breath, the girl on fire began her speech.
"I didn't personally know Thresh," she began, "But he showed me mercy when he didn't have to. He saved my life when it was better to take it. And for that, he'll always have my gratitude."
She then looked directly into the eyes of Rue's mother, "…I did know Rue. She was my ally and partner in the Games. But most importantly… she was my friend."
Katniss then chuckled while tears started streaming down her face, "I see Rue in the songs that I sing. I see her in the wind that passes me every day. I see her in my sister… She was a gentle girl, far too gentle to be in that arena…"
Rue's mother also nodded, having her tears stream down her face.
Feeling that Rue's memory should be honored and cherished, an older gentleman sang the tune that Rue and Katniss shared.
Hearing it, Katniss instantly darted her eyes to locate the source of the sound. She then noticed the same gentleman raise up three fingers into the air, using the same symbol that Katniss used in the arena.
Like a light switch had been flipped, the rest of District Eleven's audience raised their hands in solidarity. Even Thresh and Rue's family joined in with their support.
Immediately, all the Peacekeepers in the area pulled out their baton. They began beating those who raised their three-fingered salute while two other Peacekeepers went directly to the old man who started the tune.
Grabbing the old man, both Peacekeepers took him to the steps of the main square. They shoved him onto his knees.
Another group of Peacekeepers then rushed Katniss and Naruto back into the building behind them.
"Wait, what's going on?" Naruto resisted as two Peacekeepers tried shoving him inside the building.
"No please, leave him alone!" Cried out Katniss while being dragged away as well.
Before the doors closed, both victors could see a gunshot ring out as the old man slumped over. He had been executed before their very eyes.
More gunshots rang out, implying that even more people were killed.
"FUCK THAT!" Naruto shouted while shoving both Peacekeepers off him, "THAT'S BULLSHIT!"
An old man had died simply because he raised a three-finger salute, a symbol of unity.
While Naruto's reaction was that of anger, Katniss was that of sadness. Tears streamed down her face as she witnessed another death.
"NO!" Katniss yelled, "I DIDN'T EVEN DO ANYTHING! WHY DID HE DIE! I… DIDN'T EVEN do anything…" she choked out, slowly losing the passion in her voice as she sobbed.
Haymitch then arrived and grabbed Katniss from the Peacekeepers, taking her into a separate room to speak.
Before Naruto could swing on the guards that detained him, Cinna held him back and dragged him off while talking to him. He was the closest person with a reasonable amount of strength that could calm him down at the moment.
Arriving at the private room, Haymitch closed the door behind him.
"WHY! WHY DID THEY KILL HIM!" Katniss yelled at Haymitch.
Haymitch didn't take this personally, as he knew Katniss was just hurting and venting out in general.
Deciding to hug her, Haymitch spoke into her ear with kindness, "The Capitol is fearful of you. They're scared of whatever they deem a threat. But just know that you didn't kill that man out there, those people were already dead inside before we arrived. If anything, your presence here gave them the life they needed."
Katniss just sobbed silently, trying her best to calm down.
After a few minutes, both separated.
"It feels like everything I do isn't enough Haymitch," Katniss wiped her tears, "What do I do?"
"First off, stick to the script from now on, no more putting away the note cards," Haymitch then sighed, "What about the marriage idea? Is that still on the table?"
"I brought up marriage to Naruto and he seemed okay with it, but I don't think he'll propose soon enough for Snow to be convinced."
"I'll talk to him then, I'll see what I can do."
Now deep down, this made Haymitch feel disgusted with himself. They were both holding back this secret from the blonde in hopes of keeping him away from danger, but it felt like they were doing the opposite.
As they say, the road to hell is often paved with good intentions.
"Thank you, Haymitch."
"Don't thank me yet," Haymitch said, "We still have a Victory Tour to finish."
Hours Later
"Hey kid," Haymitch said to Naruto who was staring out the window of their train car. They were on the way to the next district. "How are you holding up?"
Katniss had already gone to bed, so Haymitch thought this was the best time to speak to the blonde in private.
Naruto looked over with bags under his eyes he had not had much sleep, "Doing alright. I talked to Cinna, he helped calm me down. Realized I would do more damage than good if I fought back publicly against the Capitol… but still…"
Naruto then clenched his fists so tight you could hear his skin tightening, "It makes my blood boil that they can do whatever they want to innocent people. That old man didn't deserve to die."
"I hear ya kid, I do," Haymitch said while sitting down and grabbing his flask from the inner pocket of his coat, "The Capitol is full of bastards."
The reason Haymitch could talk so freely was that he had checked their train car up and down for any bugs before this victory tour began. To his surprise, there were none.
Offering his flask to the nearby blonde, Haymitch was surprised when Naruto accepted it and downed a few gulps. "Looks like the kid's going through it…"
He looked at the victor with sad, understanding eyes.
After the blonde handed back his flask, he screwed the lid on and put it away. "Don't become an alcoholic, that's my job."
Both laughed at the dry humor.
"Listen, Naruto," Haymitch said while straightening his body, "I overheard your conversation with Katniss about marriage." He didn't, but he needed to find a way to start the conversation.
Naruto looked over and listened.
"So I wanted to ask what you think?" Haymitch said.
Naruto let out a deep sigh before answering, "I would love to marry Katniss, I love her…but I don't know if I would be rushing the decision. I don't want to ruin things between us."
"Well, who brought up the idea of marriage first?"
"Katniss did."
Haymitch then patted Naruto's back, "Then don't you think she might be ready for it already? Ready to make that commitment to you?"
Naruto blinked a few times, "I guess so, huh?"
They shared a good chuckle over that.
"If you want my two cents," Haymitch said while closing his eyes, "I say you propose to her when you both arrive back at the Capitol. The Victory Tour will just have ended and you both can become the Capitol's sweethearts. Who knows when that would be an advantage."
Naruto then thought about the idea of proposing much more seriously. If Katniss wanted to get married, and Haymitch pushed for it… would it be a bad idea? He loved Katniss and wouldn't mind spending his life with her.
It was food for thought.
"I appreciate it Haymitch, I do," Naruto said while standing up, "I'll think about it."
"Also," Haymitch raised a hand, "Stick to the note cards next time, we don't want a repeat of eleven."
Grimacing at the thought, the blonde nodded. He could do that.
Giving his mentor one last look of appreciation for the advice, the blonde walked back into the room he shared with Katniss.
"Fuck… I'm such a scumbag…" Haymitch thought glumly while taking another swig, "..manipulating that boy into marrying a girl just to prevent a war…what an asshole I am…"
The moral compass of this complex situation was going to be affecting everybody involved, all to prevent more deaths from happening.
The morning came quickly for the District Twelve group. As they emerged from their train car and entered another armored vehicle, they soon appeared in front of the District's main square.
Once more, their entourage was backstage, hidden from sight.
Going up on stage and speaking was slowly becoming more natural and easier for both victors. Their speaking order would always be decided before going on stage. Effie, Haymitch, and even Cinna made it clear to stick to the script from now on.
This routine went on and on as they continued their tour. Neither Victor was willing to allow more deaths to be caused because of their actions.
Much of the same happened through Districts Ten to Five. In each of these districts, Naruto and Katniss stayed true to the cards written by Effie.
In District Four, things had changed dramatically. While speaking, Katniss heard the audience below her began shouting.
"Say what's on your heart! Stop reading the cards! Speak what's on your mind! Speak the TRUTH!" They chanted.
Ignoring the growing chants of District Four, Katniss kept on speaking while reading her note cards. She tried her best to keep her smile, but it was slowly falling.
"Panem forever," Katniss closed her speech with a smile.
To help comfort his girlfriend who looked distressed, Naruto walked over and draped his arm around her waist.
The audience of District Four didn't listen to Katniss's words, believing them to all be forced propaganda. They were right after all.
Seeing a large-scale riot beginning to break out, both victors were immediately escorted onto their train car while more Peacekeepers went to deal with the outbursts of its citizens.
When District Three came around, things changed. As Naruto was giving his speech, he momentarily stopped when he heard a commotion. It sounded like Rue's tune to him. Looking towards the back of the main plaza, he noticed a man and woman holding up a three-fingered salute.
"No… no… no…" Naruto internally freaked out, this couldn't be another District Eleven situation.
Trying to not make it obvious as to what the pair were doing, he continued with his speech. Unfortunately, a Peacekeeper noticed their act and went to apprehend both individuals.
This time, Naruto did speak up, "They weren't doing anything, please, leave them alone."
The Peacekeeper ignored his words as he dragged both individuals away into the distance with help from some other guards.
Other citizens then turned their heads to see what was going on, which caused more ruckus. Some screamed out to leave them alone while others shouted things about a "rebellion."
It looked like District Three had deep-harbored feelings about the Capitol that were coming to the surface.
Just like in District Eleven, Peacekeepers escorted Katniss and Naruto back into the building behind them. While they weren't dragged this time, it didn't mean it was any less painful for the blonde.
He felt that his presence alone sparked a rebellion, and now he wasn't sure what to do about it.
Seeing her boyfriend's facial expressions, Katniss hugged Naruto when they entered the building. Thankfully, neither heard gunshots this time but it did make their stomachs turn when they heard constant shouting outside.
District Two was another difficult time for the pair. Katniss had a hard time looking into the eyes of Clove's family considering they both fought each other numerous times in the arena.
As for Naruto, he couldn't look Cato's family in the eyes as he had personally killed the tribute. He gave his portion of the speech without looking in their direction.
District One was much of the same, as Naruto had technically contributed to Glimmer's death. Katniss had killed Marvel as well, which made them both feel tense when speaking at the District.
Soon enough, the train car that housed the team of District Twelve headed for the Capitol to finish off this tour.
Katniss and Naruto meanwhile lay in bed, with Katniss placing her head on her partner's chest.
"I'm so tired of all this…" Katniss mumbled.
Naruto gave a kiss on the top of her head, "I know, me too. But soon, this will all be over and we can go back home. Then we can leave everything behind."
Katniss smiled with her eyes closed, imagining her own happy ever after. If only life was just as easy as fairy tales.
At the Capitol
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen!" began Caesar Flickerman, "I would like to welcome you all tonight to the closing of this year's Victory Tour!"
Applause, cheers, and laughter were shared throughout the ceremony.
"Now please do welcome our two victors, Katniss Everdeen, and Naruto Uzumaki once more! Please give them a warm round of applause!"
And so the crowd did, cheering their names.
Katniss and Naruto then emerged from the curtains, looking astoundingly stunning. Katniss wore a navy blue dress with faint red outlines while Naruto stood in a black blazer and gray undershirt combo.
"Please, sit, sit," Caesar gestured with his hand. Getting comfortable, all three began speaking in the interview. Both partners held hands while they sat.
"So, what was the most exciting thing about this year's victory tour for the both of you, hmm?" Caesar questioned.
Being prepped by Haymitch, Cinna, Effie, and even Portia on how to respond to these questions, both were prepared. While Katniss knew the reasons behind her preparation to answer questions, all Naruto was told was that it was to prevent any audience members from causing a ruckus like other Districts had. They also informed him that staying to a script would make the interview flow much smoother.
Katniss went first, "I enjoyed seeing the vibrant life in other Districts, how others could seem so content with their everyday lives."
Naruto added, "I liked seeing the different focuses of each District. Whether it was agriculture or technology, it was all fascinating to me."
And just like that, they had cleared the first obstacle in the interview. The first question was answered very safely.
"Very true, not many people get to visit all Districts, am I right folks?" Caesar panned over to the audience who clapped in support.
Katniss breathed a sigh of relief that nothing abrupt had happened so far.
"Now tell me," Caesar said with a smile, "Did either of you favor any Districts while on tour?"
"How could we?" Katniss said with a bright grin, "We loved all of them too much to choose!"
The crowd loved the response given their loud applause at the answer.
"So then," Caesar began, "Are there any important updates we should be expecting? Anything regarding the couple on fire? Get it, on fire due to your flames and his spirit?" Caesar joked with a laugh.
Katniss just gave a fake chuckle.
"There is something important I wanted to share Caesar," Naruto said.
With raised eyebrows, the host spoke, "Really? And what would that be?"
Without saying another word, Naruto let go of Katniss's hand and reached into his pocket. Getting down on one knee, he pulled out what looked like to be a small luxury ring box. It had black coloring and a white interior.
Opening the box, revealed Naruto's father's wedding ring. He had wanted to honor his father's memory by using the wedding band on somebody he felt his parents would be proud of.
He had purchased the luxury item box back in District One while on Victory Tour. After hiding it from Katniss, he inserted his father's ring inside after detaching it from his necklace.
Just like his father promised a lifetime of happiness for his mother, he wanted to do the same for Katniss.
Caesar widened his eyes exponentially, realizing what was about to happen. Even the constant noise of an audience quieted down to a whisper. Everybody had their eyes on the kneeling blonde.
Standing up out of her chair in genuine surprise, Katniss stood there shocked. She wasn't expecting this at all from her boyfriend.
"Katniss Everdeen, you make me the happiest man alive. I go each day thanking whatever lucky stars I have that you fell into my life."
Tears began welling in her eyes at the proclamation.
"Through thick and thin, you've always been there for me. In good times and bad, I've had you to rely on. I've had time to think and ponder my decision, and it always takes me back to you."
Naruto then looked directly into her eyes with a soft tone, "As long as there is breathe in my body, I will always love you, Katniss Everdeen. Will you marry me?"
"Holy shit, the kid did it!" Screamed Haymitch internally from the backstage area.
Cinna had wide eyes while Effie looked like she was about to scream from happiness. They made such a cute couple to her.
The world washed away to Katniss. There was no interview going on, there was no audience watching them, and even the thoughts of Snow's threats left her mind. Her boyfriend was confessing his deep love for her, and now it was her turn to respond.
"I-I-I… I would love to marry you," Katniss spoke with pure love and adoration for the man kneeling in front of her. Her boyfriend, the person she'd loved for so long, would now become her fiance.
Hearing what he needed, Naruto stood up and gave a deep kiss to his now fiance. As they kissed, Katniss cried tears of joy while Naruto nearly gave some of his own.
"I did not expect that when I asked my question!" Caesar joked, "But boy am I glad I got front-row seats to that!"
The couple didn't even hear his comments, too lost in each other's world to care for them.
Gently pulling her hand out, Naruto placed his wedding ring on Katniss. They were now officially engaged.
"Let's give congratulations to the now-engaged couple from District Twelve! May they prosper and succeed!" Caesar cheered on his microphone.
Once again, the couple were too lost in each other's eyes to care for his words.
Later that day, Katniss and Naruto ate at the President's mansion in the city circle of the Capitol.
The couple fed each other grapes, cake, and other luxury food items. They laughed and loved while spending time together.
Being engaged at seventeen felt foreign for the couple, but they both were extremely happy.
"It's kind of funny to see everyone wear the Mockingjay now," Naruto said while wiping some frosting from his nose. They had gotten into a brief food fight.
"It is, I was so used to wearing the symbol in secrecy but now that it's normalized here, it feels out of place."
The Mockingjay was proudly worn across the Capitol's citizens within the President's mansion. Some wore them as pins while others had the symbols stitched onto their clothing.
It had become a fashion accessory.
"I'm so full," Naruto complained while groaning in his seat. He had taken his fair share of the food and was good for the night.
"Oh, you must try this!" Spoke to one of Katniss's prep members who sat at the table with them. He handed Naruto a strange liquid in a wine glass.
"What's this?" the blonde asked.
"It's a type of drink that will make you throw up so you can eat more!" They responded as if it was an everyday occurrence. Which, considering the Capitol's greed, it very well could have been.
"Ahh… thank you," Naruto grimaced as he set the drink down on the table.
He didn't feel like subjugating his body to that.
Trying to change the subject, Naruto reached his hand out to his fiance, "Would you like to dance, m'lady?"
Giggling, Katniss nodded and both victors made their way to the ballroom.
It was nice as both individuals danced to the rhythm of the songs being played. Both just enjoyed the other's company.
"Can you believe it?" Naruto broke the silence while looking around during their slow dance, "The fact that these people throw up to eat more?"
Katniss nodded, "I know, it's so disgusting."
"I know some people back home who've never had a full stomach their entire lives, and these people gouge themselves to death."
The two continued to talk about everything. Their Hunger Games, the Victory Tour, their love life, life topics, and so much more. Neither realized they danced for nearly two hours straight, just lost in their passion for the other.
Eventually, Naruto felt a small tap on his shoulder. Turning around, he saw it was Portia, his stylist.
"Naruto! Katniss! You both must meet Mr. Plutarch Heavensbee!" She cried out in joy.
Both stopped their dance to greet the man.
"He's going to be this year's upcoming Head Gamemaker!" Portia added on.
Naruto and Katniss then thought back to Seneca Crane's fate, the previous Head Gamemaker. It had been publicly stated that he was found dead in his sleep. Many concluded his death to be a suicide, attributing an overdose of sleeping pills.
However, both knew better than to trust the media. They knew that Snow was involved in some way.
"I don't mean to take up much of your time, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to meet both victors from District Twelve," Plutarch said with a smile.
"It's nice to meet you Mr. Heavensbee," Naruto then gave the man a handshake while Katniss nodded as well.
"Please, just call me Plutarch," the man joked, "I sound too old with Mr. Heavensbee."
Naruto chuckled, finding the man alright for now.
"I didn't mean to take up much of your time, just wanted to stop by and say hi," Plutarch said, "I have a meeting I must attend to coordinate this year's Quarter Quell."
He then checked his watch, "The meeting begins around midnight actually, so I must get going."
His watch then briefly flashed a Mockingjay hologram, showing everybody for a quick second.
"Thank you for your time," With a nod, Plutarch exited the area.
"What was that about?" Katniss thought in confusion about the Mockingjay image.
Portia then made her exit as well, congratulating the couple on their engagement.
This left the couple alone once more. Reaching up to peck his cheek, Katniss spoke, "I'll be back soon Ruto, I have to go to the bathroom."
Naruto nodded, "Sounds good, I'll go get us some refreshments."
Both then separated to do their respective duties. As Katniss was only a few feet away from the ladies' restroom, President Snow emerged from around the corner. This made Katniss's body lock up in shock and surprise.
President Snow walked up to the Girl on Fire with a champagne glass in his hand.
"Greetings Ms. Everdeen, or should I say Mrs. Uzumaki now?" Snow said with a smile that didn't reach his eyes.
Katniss didn't dignify his question with a response.
"What do you want, President Snow?" Katniss spat out with venom, tired of the man who had been tormenting her lately.
"Why the hostility, Mrs. Everdeen?"
"Did I convince you?" Katniss whispered harshly, trying to cut through the small talk and get straight to business.
Snow clenched his jaw at the question.
"You were good Ms. Everdeen, very good," Snow said while hardening his gaze, "But not good enough to convince me. Each time you left behind a District, little ripple effects of a rebellion would form. Whether intentional or not, it is something I must deal with regardless."
Snow then sipped his champagne, "I hope you enjoy the rest of your night, Ms. Everdeen. Congratulations on your engagement, I'm sure it means the world to you. I also hope you realize it can be taken away as well."
With nothing left to be said, Snow walked off.
Katniss didn't know how long she stood there after Snow had left. She just remembered Naruto tapping her shoulder and breaking her out of her thoughts. "Hey, what's wrong Kat? You look like you've seen a ghost or something."
Indeed, all the color in Katniss's face had drained away.
Waving off her fiance, Katniss responded, "I'm fine, I just got distracted in my thoughts. Nothing to worry about."
Giving her an analyzing look, Naruto eventually relented, "Okay, but you let me know if something's up. We're a team now, and as a team, I'm here to help you."
Katniss then reached up to kiss him, "I will."
"Good," he nodded, "Sorry about the refreshments by the way, I kept getting swarmed by people in the Capitol so I gave up to find you instead."
Katniss felt at ease once more around somebody who made her feel safe. She wished that Naruto was with her each time she interacted with Snow, then maybe it would be different.
Sharing a quick kiss, both victors went about socializing for the rest of the night, keeping up their professional appearance. They would be leaving for their District soon.
The Next Morning
Katniss, Naruto, Haymitch, and the rest of their group were traveling back to District Twelve for the final day of the Victory Tour. They would be having the Harvest Festival in their home District.
Once the doors to the train car opened, everybody was greeted with a pleasant sight.
Kids were running around with smiles and toys. Adults were chatting while eating amongst themselves.
Because the Harvest Festival was an all-day event, District Twelve would be able to reap the rewards because their tributes were the victors after all.
It brought smiles to everybody on the train car. It felt like euphoria for both victors, long wishing to see something similar.
Even people who would normally be working right now were enjoying themselves. Shifts were canceled for this day only. Some decided to sleep in and enjoy the festival later on while others decided to enjoy it now.
"Let's go join them," Naruto said while grabbing Katniss's hand gently. He rolled his fingers around her wedding band.
"Yeah, let's go," She said softly while looking into his eyes.
They then spent the day talking to others, eating food, and enjoying the day. Unlike yesterday when they socialized to keep their image, they socialized because they genuinely liked the people.
It was a completely different feeling when compared to being at the President's mansion.
When the sun began to set, Katniss and Naruto prepared to enjoy their last moments of the Victory Tour. They had to have one final dinner with the Mayor at his home and conclude their tour.
Walking inside the house, they realized the home was rather spacious on the inside. It wasn't anything grand, but it did have more space than most homes in the District.
As they paced into the dining room, they noticed that Haymitch, Cinna, Effie, and Portia were already seated. The other executives in the District were also seated. They were all making small talk.
Haymitch was the first to spot them, "Look who finally arrived, the two lovebirds."
"Sorry," Naruto rubbed the back of his head, "We lost track of time, I hope we're not too late."
Effie shook her head, "You're not, you're a few minutes early. However, Katniss darling, could you fetch the Mayor? He's still in his study and the food will be served soon."
The food would be specially crafted by chefs from the Capitol, ensuring that the Victory Tour ended with amazing food.
"Of course," Katniss said before looking at her fiance, "Save me a spot."
He kissed her hand, "Always."
Smiling, Katniss let go of Naruto's hand and walked upstairs. She had been friends with the Mayor's daughter and rarely came over, but she did know where his study was.
As she knocked, she didn't hear an answer. Knocking once more, there was still no answer. Getting slightly concerned, she twisted the doorknob gently and cracked the door open.
Inside was the Mayor invested deeply into some paperwork behind his desk. Looking up, he said, "Oh greetings Katniss. What's the matter?"
"Dinner is almost ready, we wouldn't want you to miss it."
Shuffling his paperwork with both hands, the Mayor looked embarrassed, "I'm sorry, I must have gotten lost in my work. I'll be on my way."
Nodding her head, Katniss went to close the door. Just as it was about to completely close, she heard the television from the Mayor's study.
Faintly she could hear the announcer say something that made her heart drop.
"District Eight is in rebellion, there is an uprising that is costing lives on both sides."
WE ARE DONE AGAIN!
We are getting close to the action once more! I know this chapter may have felt like a filler for the upcoming scenes, but it was necessary to include it in the story.
Now the angle of the plot is a little different in this story. Originally, Katniss played up the romance for the cameras to quell a rebellion.
In this case, Katniss's romance is true but she now has to deal with the unintended consequences of her actions in the arena. Plus, she now has to juggle keeping Naruto away from the secrets she's hiding.
The suspense is building! Until next time!
Cheers!
