The living room was eerily quiet as we gathered to watch the score announcement. The Capitol presenter appeared on the screen, a sly smile on her face as she drew out the suspense. The screen flashed with the familiar seal of Panem, and then the scores began.

Each tribute's name scrolled across, followed by their respective score.

"Finnick Odair, eleven," the announcer chirped.

I glanced at the screen, trying to predict how the others would react to their scores. Most looked calm, but tension hung heavy in the air.

"Johanna Mason, nine."

Then the screen flickered again. "Emerald Arora, twelve."

I blinked. Twelve? That couldn't be right. I felt the eyes of the room turn to me, a mixture of admiration and suspicion flickering on every face.

"Katniss Everdeen, twelve."

My stomach twisted, and I leaned forward slightly, waiting for the final announcement.

"Peeta Mellark, twelve."

A twelve for all three of us. This was no coincidence.

The room erupted into murmurs, but I could barely hear them over the pounding in my chest. This was a message from the Capitol. It wasn't a sign of approval—it was a threat, a challenge.

Katniss stood, her jaw set in that determined way I recognized all too well. Peeta reached for her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

I forced a smile. "Looks like we're the Capitol's favorites."

Peeta chuckled softly, but his eyes betrayed his worry. Katniss just nodded, not saying a word.

Once the broadcast ended, I slipped out quietly. The air felt suffocating. I needed a moment to breathe, to think. I knew the high score was meant to draw attention to us—and to make us targets.

"Quite the show," Kactus's voice came from behind me. She leaned against the wall, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

"Yeah," I said. "They're setting us up for something big."

Paxton joined us, his expression more serious. "This only confirms that the Capitol's eyes are on you three. Whatever plan you have, be careful."

I nodded, thanking them before heading back to my room. Tomorrow, the interviews would begin, and I needed to be ready. But tonight, I needed to process everything.

Just as I reached my door, Raven's voice whispered in my ear, his red, yellow, and black scales glinting in the low light. "Careful, Emerald. This game is bigger than you think."

I paused, running a hand down his smooth back. "I know, Raven. But it's not just a game anymore. It's war."