Chapter 1
When I wake up, my bed shakes from the rails beneath me. My head aching from the last couple
of days of traveling from district to district. Those being emotional for me as I had to pull
families apart. To see the tears of the families and friends as their loved ones were pulled away
to what was in all essence their deaths it... Well, it hurt. Truly these days have made me question
what my life choice has been. Why a peacekeeper out of all things?
I was not given the chance to think on my thoughts, as I was interrupted in my musings by a soft
knock on my door. Standing up quickly I check if I'm decent, white t-shirt, camo sleeping pants,
and unruly hair. I sighed and shrugged mumbling ‘Heh, two out of three, good enough.' before
replying to the knock with a polite, "come in."
The door slowly opened up to reveal Effie Trinket. It was still early in the morning apparently
because she wasn't in any extravagant dress like usual or wearing vast amounts of makeup.
Although she did have a nice blonde wig on that ended at her shoulders making hair look much
more natural. Truthfully she was quite beautiful without all that extra garbage on.
With that in mind, I stood there waiting to be spoken to before speaking to her. I may be a
peacekeeper but the woman in front of me was not someone to take lightly with her influence in
the community at the capital. So I stood stiff as a board waiting to be addressed. A minute passed
until she walked up close to me before slapping me on the chest. "Stand down child no reason to
be so serious with me while we're in private." With a small nod, I relaxed my stiff body and
looked down and smiled at the shorter lady. "There you go. Relax boy. You're only 17 and you
act as if you are my age." She said laughing softly. I felt myself smile and nod to her.
With a small laugh, she snapped her fingers. "Oh yes, I wanted to tell you that we are soon to
reaching district 12. So please be ready." I merely nodded with a smile. "Of course Effie." A
bright smile took over her face before hugging me tightly.
"What would I have done without you being by my side." I shrugged while hugging her as well.
"You know.. If what happened back then didn't I wouldn't have you as a friend." She said in a
sad tone.
I shake my head, "Don't speak like that Effie. What happened was evil and shouldn't have
happened… But I guess you're right." I say as I close my eyes remembering that day.
-FLASHBACK‘Second night and I still can't sleep.' I thoughts as I rubbed at my headache. Two days without
sleep is not good for the body. Plus with the added boredom of not being able to do anything
until my next shift. Which come to think of it was supposed to already have started. Usually, the
other guy would wake me up and tell me it was my turn, so I was confused.
Deciding to find out, I got up out of my bed and decided to find out. Opening my door I look
around in the dark not seeing the man who usually covers the hall where Madam Effie slept. So
being curious I walked down the hall only to see the Madam's door opened and could hear
struggling from the other side. Opening the door I saw the guy that usually wakes me up holding
down Madam Trinket, who was trying to fight off the man with little success. From what I could
see nothing to sever happened yet.
Reacting quickly I ran at the man causing him to look up at me most likely due to my footsteps.
He made to react but was too late as I slammed into him throwing his body against the window
of the train. I quickly looked at Madam Trinket. "Get help now!" She frighteningly nodded
before running out of the room screaming for help. Turning back to the issue at hand I quickly
grabbed the bedside lamp and swung it at the older man who easily caught it with his
experienced reflexes.
The man responded with pulling out his button that was strapped to his side. He swung it at my
head. Quickly ducking underneath it I retaliated by throwing a left hook striking his face causing
him to stagger. Grabbing the hand with the button I jerked it quickly snapping it at the wrist
making him lose his grip on the blunt object, seeing it fall I snagged it out of the air before
whacking him on the back of the neck before he fell to the ground unconscious
I could only take a few breaths of air before at least a handful of peacekeepers barged into the
room, Madam Effie safely behind them being comforted by a female peacekeeper. The others
seeing the older male unconscious quickly got into defensive stances.
Effie seeing the actions of the guards quickly spoke up. "He.. he's the one who helped me. The
man on the floor is responsible for attacking me." The peacekeepers merely nodded before
detaining the man and dragged him out of the room leaving me standing before two other
peacekeepers alongside the woman and Effie.
A silence hung in the air for some time before Effie let out a sob holding herself tightly. The men
looked away to be respectful while the woman peacekeeper tried comforting the now crying
Effie only to come short.
She was a mess. I was surprised she wasn't hyperventilating or having a panic attack. But seeing
a woman cry was a weak point for me ever since I was a boy. And seeing someone cry who
nearly everyone at the capital considered a powerful woman was both surprising and sad. And I
couldn't handle it. I stepped forward gaining the male peacekeeper's attention. Putting my hands
up placatingly I walk towards her before slowly lowering myself to my knees reaching eye level
with the quivering mess of a woman.
Seeing me through her tears she choked back a sob. It didn't help with her though. But being so
close I realized something. She was beautiful. And seeing that look in her eyes, it... It broke my
heart seeing the look of fear. And I couldn't handle it. So I reached out slowly with my hands
bringing her into a hug rubbing soothing circles on her back. With nothing to do she laid her
head on my shoulder, wrapping her arms around my body squeezing me with all she had.
Some time passed before her sobs reduced to mere shakes and shudders. I could feel her soft
breathing on my neck as the other three looked on. Madam Effie pulled her head away showing
off her puffy eyes and tear-streaked face for all to see. She looked a mess but she had a small
smile on her face.
"Thank you." She said. "I.. I really needed that." I gave a soft smile and wiped away her tears. I
stood up slowly holding her hands in my own bring her up with me.
I walked her to her bed before laying her down. "Madam get some sleep. My shift started a while
ago so I'll be watching over you for the remainder of the night." I quickly finished as her face
became frightened. Luckily though her face went back to a smile before giving a nod. I nodded
back before walking to the other three occupants of the room. Giving them a firm glare. "Listen,
no offense but I would like only for the female guard in here while I'm gone. Please understand
it's not you but with what just happened could make her... Less than happy to be alone with you."
The men were upset but understood so left the room leaving the woman peacekeeper to stand
watch until I got back. I quickly gave a thankful nod to her which she gave back before I quickly
made my way to my room before getting dressed.
Five minutes later I was ready to go so I went back to Effie's room thanking the woman who I
now knew was named Chloe. A wave to her I step into the room before sidestepping to the side
of the door taking up a guard position that Chloe deemed safe. I agreed fully and asked if she
wouldn't mind watching the hall as was per usual. She agreed and was now watching it while I
was stood within her eye level through the doorway.
So taking my spot I watch Madam Effie turn back and forth on her bed before she shoots up
sweating. Her eyes were wide and worried-looking around the room until she saw me back
straight against the wall with no helmet on to see my face.
She relaxed somewhat as seeing me I could tell. I saw she was sweating quite a bit. I poked my
head out the door and asked Chloe to get a maid to change the bedsheets for Effie. She agreed
and went to complete the task.
Shortly after a woman came with new sheets and blankets. The madam seemed embarrassed but
stood up anyways before walking to me making sure to be only a arms width away. I smiled
slightly. It seemed I was her safety blanket in away.
Soon enough the maid was finished and left. Leaving me and Madam Effie alone. She stood
there seeming like she didn't want to move to her bed. So being the gentleman I am I walked
next to her before grabbing her arm softly before walking her to her bed. "Get some sleep, Ms.
Effie. You need your rest." I said.
She nodded softly laying her head down. "May I know your name?" She asked.
Nodding my head I respond, "My name is Eric Palm." She nodded and asked me about my age.
"17. Just recently actually."
"Oh, that is wonderful. Happy Birthday." I bow in thanks at her kindness before turning to walk
to my spot next to the door.
She seemed to be watching me the whole way. Probably making sure I don't leave. The Madam
shifts on her bed so she's facing me before asking me a question.
"Would you like to be my own personal escort?" Shocked I asked. "Madam... I'm honored you
would even consider me, but why?" The look she gave me basically asking, ‘Are you serious?'
She sat up and sighed at me. "Because I don't think I could have anyone else be my personal
guard right now or maybe ever again. What happened earlier was the farthest any man has ever
gone." She curls in on herself slightly with a shudder. "But you were there to stop him. You a
mere boy risking his life to keep me safe." A smile comes to my face. "If you weren't here then I
can only imagine what would have happened." She went silent for a second before looking up
into my eyes with hope in her own. "So please would you be my guard? Would you please keep
me safe?"
-FLASHBACK ENDSo here I am now 10 days later as her personal guard. And I'm happy. I feel like she was as well
as she had more of a natural cheerfulness around her.
Sadly though that night wasn't the last attack on her. Not even 3 days after that night I had to stop
three other peacekeepers from getting to Effie and by the end of it, only one of them was
breathing.
That night Effie decided to throw anyone who attacked her off the train. Which didn't deter
anyone from attacking her. Getting tired of the annoyances I officially had all-male guards
transferred to new posts while recruiting an all-female detail. Well, all beside myself and Kyle
Simms. Him being one of the only guys I could trust around Effie without attacking her. The
reason being he's gay and rather talk about how certain outfits then look at any woman on board
the train. Besides Effie when commenting on how she looked.
But back to the now. Pulling away I step back and gave a shooing motion getting a hurt look
from Effie making me roll my eyes. "If you want me to be ready to escort you to the reaping I
recommend you leave me to get dressed."
Understanding what I meant she said goodbye and I got to work on putting on my special
peacekeeper clothes. Instead of the usual white getup with helmet, Effie got me a specially made
suit which was finally finished after District 11's reaping. ‘Poor girl' I shake my head
remembering the Rue girl who was chosen. Stupid games.
My new outfit consisted of overall the same things but was significantly lighter. Instead of being
of all white it now was dark grey with the trim of it being automatically changing in color to
match with the color of Effie's clothes. Instead of having a helmet I had a cape only slightly
darker than the suit with the same trim as the rest.
Overall I liked it a lot and gave my thanks to the maker by letter. I think their name was Cinna or
something like that. Funny enough apparently there is supposed to be some secret but I haven't
found it yet. Something about fire or whatnot.
After getting dressed I stepped out of the room while trying to get my hair to a more stable
condition but alas it was not to be. "Sigh, why does my hair always do this to me in the
mornings?!" I mussed to myself.
A hand came into my path and stopped at my chest making me look up to see one of the female
guards. I think her name was Sarah or something like that. "You aren't going out there with
Madam Effie with that monstrosity on your head."
I pouted. "I can't fix it. I've tried but I can't stop it from just spiking back up into... THIS." I yell
frustrated with my failure to quell my ‘lovely' hair once again.
Apparently, Sarah found my suffering funny because she giggled right in front of me. When she
stopped she gesturing for me to follow her. Ending up in the makeup room where she pulled out
her comms and called in someone. Soon another peacekeeper guard who I didn't know the name
right off the top of my head off smiled at me before telling me to sit down.
"Now, I was told that your hair has been bothering you." I nod. "Well, I'm here to help so just
give me an idea of what you want."
Thinking about it I could only shrug. "I don't really know. But whatever you decide would be
fine with me." I heard a gasp of shock before turning around and seeing a wide-eyed... Tyra?
Yeah! It's Tyra. Knew I knew it.
"How can you be so uncaring about what I do!? I could make you bald or something." Really?
Was she that surprised.
With a sigh, I turn and look at her. "Tyra, I don't know anything about hair or anything like that.
From how you just reacted I can tell you know about this stuff. So please just go with your own
judgment. I won't be disappointed, I know it."
A resigned sigh released from Tyras' mouth as she got to work. Sarah watching from the
sidelines making small remarks every now and then about what should be done.
Within the hour they were finished and I was admiring my now shorter and tamer hair.
Personally, it wasn't bad and I approved greatly from the mess from before. Turning around I
bowed slightly. "Thank you for helping me. It is quite nice looking." I received a bright smile
and wave of the hand from the two women in front of me.
With a farewell and a promise to see them later at the reaping I left and headed to Effie's room.
Opening the door I saw she was wearing a mix between pink and purple colored dress with a
light pink wig adorned with a similarly colored rose as her dress. Her face was covered in a layer
of white makeup.
I could only smile at my friend. She was elegant but a little outlandish with her looks. I cleared
my throat gaining her attention.
She turned around only to see me in my new clothes and hair. She did what I expected her to.
Gasping dramatically she swiftly walked towards me before walking around me a few times
before standing before me with a lovely smile on her face.
"Wow.. you look absolutely dashing. A befitting look for my personal escort. Although who did
your hair it looks quite nice so I know you didn't do it yourself."
I hung my head in mock sadness before looking up with a sad look. "But Effieee. You know I try
my hardest with my hair." She merely laughed at me softly before hugging me and asking again
who did my hair. "A girl named Tyra. Another of the Peacekeepers watching over the train." I
answer.
She nodded her head and made a mental note to speak to the girl. But now wasn't the time.
Stepping back from me she spread her arms out. "How do I look? I know you don't like all the
‘extra crap' as you so brilliantly put it, but it needs to be done."
I knew that, but I still liked her natural look over the clown get-up which many seem to think is
elegant. But I couldn't be rude... Well to rude so I just smiled. "You're right. Still I rather you
wear what you usually do onboard." I rather not admit it but I pouted slightly. It seemed Effie
ignored me in favor of putting on her footwear.
"There! I'm ready to go now." Nodding I offer my arm which she graciously accepted with a
smile and a gesture to leave.
We walked towards the exit of the train before stepping out into the cloudy sky of District 12.
We slowly walked down the line of Peacekeepers before making out the way to what I believe to
be the Justice Building. This is where we will be waiting until it's time to start the reaping for
District 12.
Walking into the room assigned to Effie I quickly lowered her to a chair before taking guard next
to her. Soon at least half of the train guards came into the room before standing straight waiting
for orders.
Moving in front of them I smile gently at them. "Listen, ladies. We're going to do what we have
done for the last 8 Districts. All you will be located on the stage and at the stairs. The Keepers
that are usually here will be taking up every other position needed for the ceremony.
Understood?" A chorus of "Yes sir." Resonated back. With a smile, I dismissed them to relax for
the next 20 minutes before they are needed.
Sitting back I breathe a sigh before leaning against Effies' shoulder getting comfortable. While
she leaned on my head before we both drifted to sleep.
-15 minutes laterI was woken by a soft hand on my shoulder which gently shook me awake. Following the hand,
up to the arm, it was attached to and my gaze landed on the soft smiling face of no other than
Chloe my right-hand man.. Eh.. woman. Smiling I stretch releasing a groan before looking to my
right seeing Effie sleeping peacefully on my shoulder. But it couldn't last. Sighing I shake her
gently till she rouses awake.
She opened her eyes softly before giving a small sigh at seeing me. "We have to go don't we." It
was more a statement than a question. I laughed softly nodding. "Yeah, we got to go." She stood
up and quickly smoothed her dress before gesturing for me and Chloe to follow her out.
We reached the door to the stage quickly. This may not be known by many, but Effie Trinket had
some severe stage fright. You wouldn't really think so from how she acts on tv but she was a
mess before stepping out. I realized this on the first day of myself being her personal guard.
And nothing changed much since then. As usual, she was shaking slightly and was mumbling to
herself. But I now had experience with this so I stepped next to her and grabbed her hand and
stroked the back of it gently. She looked up to me with wide eyes before they relaxed. She
pressed herself close against me and relaxed even more. Her breathing evened out while her
shaking stopped altogether.
One of the many people there signaled me that they were ready so I slowly pulled away and
kissed her forehead. "I'll be there the whole time right behind you. Okay." She nodded before
turning towards the exit and nodded to the people at the door before they opened it up to the
outside.
We walked outside to the quiet town square of District 12. The scene was sad and dim like the
majority of the other districts. Just looking around at the faces ranging from ages as low as 12 to
as high as 18 was just sad. The girls all were some kind of light blue dress or something close
while the guys were what I could only describe as just horrendous. Like seriously they looked
like Nazi kids… Wait. What's a Nazi?
Shaking my head I realized Effie was speaking. "It's time for the drawing." She says as she
always does. "Ladies First!"
If you didn't know her personally, you wouldn't have recognized the false glee she was giving
off. No one may know this but she hated picking people to die. She told me once, "It's not that
I'm not honored to have the position... It's just that it gets to you after a while of seeing those
people you get to know die on a tv screen." That night she expressed that she was happy I
wouldn't be going through the reaping. You know capital life and all that.
I followed her movements as she stepped over to the Sphere with the girls' names. I watched as
she put her hand in and swirled it around a few times before stopping. Plucking out a slip of
paper before stepping back to the podium. Slowly opening the folded up paper she read,
"Primrose Everdeen."
Chapter 2
As usual, when the name was called gasps followed. It was a sound and a sight I've seen a lot
recently but still makes my heart hurt. The look in the young girl's eyes was so frightened that I
could barely look. But I did.
From what I could see she looked only 12. The youngest age possible to be in the reaping. Funny
enough a girl named Rue from District 11 around the same age was chosen only a day before, yet
it seemed that history would repeat itself.
I watched as the girl looked back at a wide-eyed 16-year old before slowly walking towards the
stage. The crowd making a path for her to walk. My eyes watching as she moved I didn't notice
when the older girl started running after her until...
"Prim!" She yelled. "Prim!" She yells once again before reaching the younger girl right before
she stepped up the stairs. With a quick move of her arm, she pushed the younger girl safely
behind her.
Taking quick action just in case it was a ruse to harm Effie I step in front of the stairs blocking
them. But what the older girl said next surprised me.
"I volunteer!" She gasped. "I volunteer as tribute!"
Stopping from pulling out my baton I could only blink. An actual volunteer. A person is willing
to give their life for another to survive. Well, albeit it's her sister but still.
"L-lovely." I hear Effie say before stepping back next to her. "But I believe there's a small matter
of introducing the reaping winner, and then asking for-" She stops as I put my hand on her
shoulder stopping her and pulling her softly away from the mics' before stepping up myself.
"May we know your name?" She nodded. "Katniss Everdeen." I smiled softly at her. "So she is
your sister," I ask although I'm a hundred percent sure they're related.
"Yes, she is my younger sister. Please let me take her place."
With a quick look back at Effie, I could immediately see she was conflicted on what to do. So
being the good friend I am. I decided on her. "Yes, you may take her place as the female tribute.
Please step up here." She nodded before looking back at her sister.
I watched as a small conflict occurred between the two before a guy around my age stepped in
and pulled Primrose away from Katniss. Not being hindered in anyway Katniss stepped onto a
stage before standing to the left of me. Giving a quick nod to her I turned back to the mass of
people.
"There will be no more volunteers. Sorry, but the games have to have at least some mystery to
them." A voice I heard went silent and I nodded. "Good. Now Madam Trinket will be finishing
this reaping." Stepping away I looked towards Effie and gestured for her to continue.
She happily obliged seeing the confusion ended and everyone calm. She straightened her back
before clearing her throat. "Now we shall choose-" But again she was cut off as a man that I
personally thought to be pretty funny stepped up from his chair before putting an arm around
Katniss who looked repulsed by the mans ‘manly' odor. And began yelling, "Look at her, look at
this one. Lots of... Spunk. More than you!" He says releasing her and pointing at one of the
camera's that are recording the event. He walked towards it, "More than you." He said before
promptly falling off the stage and knocks himself unconscious. I could only shake my head at the
mans ridiculous.
Haymitch the only man I actually let around Effie without my supervision. Reason being I knew
he wouldn't hurt her. In fact, they've been friends for some time now… although she's not a big
fan of his hygiene problem or his drinking issue.
While he was being carted off I could hear the female guards around me snicker at the
intoxicated man's actions. Although Effie looked a little annoyed at her friends' drunken stupor.
But alas things needed to be moved along so, "W-what an exciting day!" she says in fake
enthusiasm trying not to show her annoyance. "But now it's time to choose our boy tribute."
With trained elegance, she glided towards the sphere containing the names of the boy tributes.
Quickly grabbing one of the slips to avoid any more embarrassment she moved back to the
original spot just as quickly before opening the paper ready to get this over with. "Eric Pa-.." She
stopped and froze on the spot. People were confused about why the woman didn't announce the
name. The female guards knew exactly what the name was and were shocked, to say the least,
but held their tongues. This was not a place to voice their disagreement.
Yet, even though she stopped I knew what the name was. It was obvious, just by looking around
I could see all the guards not under my command watching me with their hands on their weapons
in case I retaliate and do something. That was enough information to know for sure. But just in
case I stepped up behind Effie looking over her shoulder and read the paper. Sure enough, my
name was clearly on it.
A sigh escaped my lips shaking Effie out of her shocked state. She turned her head and looked at
me over her right shoulder, obviously holding back the tears that were fit to spill any second
from her beautiful blue eyes which were only enhanced by the wetness caused by her un ushered
tears.
The look in of itself broke my heart into pieces. The very woman that I couldn't stand to see cry
was close to doing so. And it was all because of me. It hurt more than anything and all I could do
was comfort her to the best of my abilities. I grabbed her shoulder twirling her around before
hugging her close to me.
Not wanting to waste time Effie immediately released her tears in front of the hundreds of
spectators. The scene the capital would have seen was a distraught woman crying onto her most
precious guard. Who in fact has gained popularity for his actions in saving Effie and becoming
her own guard.
Soon enough though I caught signs of movement from the other guards. Not wanting to cause a
scene I pulled away from Effie who adjusted herself to be holding onto my arm while I stepped
up to the mic causing the other peacekeepers to stop their advancements.
"Well.. it seems that I will be the male tribute for District 12." A silence went through the
previously rowdy crowd. "Heh... it's a good thing though." shock passed through everyone
including Effie who squeezed my arm even tighter. Looking down I smiled a small smile at her
before kissing her forehead before looking back to the crowd.
"It seems that my popularity over the last couple of days garnered me more attention then I asked
for." A soft chuckle escaped my lips. Though it was hollow to those who cared enough to pay
attention. "So I suppose I am to step down as the personal guard of Effie Trinket. But before I do
I would like to put in some final orders so my own regiment doesn't lose their heads without me.
May I do that at least?" A higher ranked peacekeeper nodded making me nod back. "Well, then I
suppose that I will be taking my position as District 12's male tribute. I rather have this then have
to see another little child be picked as a tribute." A shocked looked passed many faces of the
crowd making me blink away the tears. "Even though I love protecting which in all essence my
mother figure." Shocked gasps passed throughout the crowd. "I have to do this willingly and win
as well... For if I don't then who would protect one of the last things that are precious to me."
Finished with my speech the anthem started playing as I turn around and walk into the building
signaling my girls to follow me Effie still being attached to my arm didn't really need a signal to
follow. Katniss followed right next to me. Taking a quick look over to her I could see she was
holding up a strong front so she didn't look weak. Yet, I felt she was stronger than what many
thought.
Soon enough we reached the visiting room quickly followed by Chloe who immediately tore her
mask off showing her both enraged and teary-eyed visage. Before I could say anything to her she
barreled into me wrapping her arms around my midsection finally letting her tears fall alongside
Effie.
Not long later she backed up and wiped her eyes before putting her arms behind her back. "Sir..
what are your final orders until you retake your position?"
It was a simple question but underneath it was a promise that I knew was a risky one to take. But
whoever said I wasn't the risk-taking type. So with a smile, I told her what I wanted, "Chloe...
During my absence I want you to take up command of the protection of Effie Trinket." Seeing
she was ready to protest I quickly continued, "She alongside you are my most precious people.
You being like a sister to me... albeit a lesbian one." A fist connected with my shoulder which I
quickly shrugged off. "And Effie being the mother, friend, and love I longed to have my whole
life."
At that Effie cries lessened in intensity while she holds tight onto my midsection. Looking down
I see she has puffy eyes, which was common when crying. Alongside it, her cheeks were
sporting pretty decent blush.
"That's right Effie. I. Love. You." With each word, I moved closer to her face before pressing my
lips to her own. Finally, I got to express how I felt for the woman that held onto me. Finally, I
got to see if she felt the same. And I was not disappointed as her hands, one on the back of my
head and the other holding onto the front of my suit, pulled me closer to her as she kissed back
feverishly as if she was starving for such a thing.
Yet, all good things must come to an end as we finally pulled away from each other before I put
my head to hers. But it seemed she had a question of her own. "Do you mean it? I am older than
you. I could be your mother" The look of playfulness that most would have seen at that moment
was not what I saw. What I saw was a mix of two things which I hoped never to see again.
Scared and heartbroken.
And without my forethought, a bark of laughter was released from my lungs. "You think ‘hah'
that I care about your age." My voice dropping to a softer tone. "Effie... I have loved you since
the first time I heard your voice. Heh, since the very first time I set my eyes on you." I slowly
cup her chin looking into her eyes. "So, please... Never doubt my love for you."
She nodded as our lips met in a soft touch. Both enjoying the moment as much as they could
before having to attend to other matters. When we finally parted Effie unwrinkled her dress
before approaching Katniss. "Ms. Everdeen." Said girl raises her eyes up from the ground where
they were during the oddly romantic scene that played in front of her. "You will get to see your
family and loved ones before we go off to leave."Katniss seemed to show little emotion besides
nodding softly.
Effie may have not noticed her odd demeanor but I did. When Effie went to leave I hug her
before whispering in her ear, "I'm going to talk to her. She seems off somehow." Pulling back
Effie turned to look at the near-emotionless girl before nodding her acceptance and leaving. But
not without a goodbye kiss. Chloe followed her out.
With the gone, I looked over to Katniss and sighed softly before grabbing two chairs from near
the desk and walking over to her. "Here." She turned her head to see me set down both of the
chairs. "Sit down and relax the best you can." The look she gave me was all it took for me to
slump into my own chair with a sigh.
"Listen... I'll answer any question you have, okay. Just please sit down." She seemed to think it
over for a second before sitting down. I smiled at her and gestured with my hand for her to ask
away, and soon enough she broke the silence. "Did you know who was going to be picked?" Her
voice was low and the question came out more as a growl then words themselves.
My eyes snapped to hers with a glare. Seeing her eyes look away I relax a little before I shook
my head. "No, I don't. If I did I would've known I was going to be a tribute." She seemed to be
less upset now but I knew she had more questions. And soon enough she asked, "Why are all the
guard's woman?" At that one, I frowned. I didn't like talking about what happened, but she was
going to be my partner and most likely my only friend for this experience so she at least deserves
to know. So I told her.
Five minutes later
"So after everything that happened I decided to just have female guards." I finished with a shrug.
Seeing a small smile grace her face I couldn't help the one that came to my own. After that, she
asked me some common questions about the capital and how long we would take to get there.
Soon though we were interrupted by both Primrose Everdeen and what I suspected to be their
mother. Taking my eyes off the mother and daughter I see Chloe motion for me near the door the
two females walked through. With a nod and a quick look back at the embracing trio, I walked
towards my second in command.
"Sir." She said with a salute, which I quickly waved away. "What is it, Chloe?" She doesn't say
anything besides handing over me some documents. Looking through them I understood what
they were and sat down to get them done with.
A few minutes later
Rolling my wrist around I relaxed back into my seat. Handing over the documents to Chloe who
nods and walks away. Before long I stand and walk over to the small family talking to each
other. I noticed a white suit in the corner of my vision before waving at the female peacekeeper
who smiles tearily back. ‘Carry must be the escort for Katniss's family.' Looking back to the
family I stop a few steps away from them hearing their discussion end with, what I believed to be
a promise of Katniss winning. With a clearing of my throat, I had all their attention. A calm gaze
from Katniss, a cautious look from Primrose, and finally a glare from their mother.
First off was the sister. I felt bad for what was happening and even more so when there was a
little girl upset. Giving a half-hearted smile I look at Prim. "Primrose was it?" She nods but said,
"Yes, but I like Prim more." I give a nod of understanding. "Well Prim, I would like to get in that
little promise of your's."
"What do you mean?" She asked. Slowly sitting on the carpeted ground I gave her a smile. "I
promise that your sister will come back from the games." Saying that a look of happiness
appeared on her face, but before she could say anything a duel response of, "And what about
you?" Came out of both older sister and mother.
Not being surprised by the question I shrugged. "Truthfully I have no idea. I might die or I might
find a way for both of us and maybe that girl from district 11 to win altogether." Seeing shocked
faces I pressed on. "I rather that then not keeping a promise. Especially not one to a little one like
you Prim. So again I promise that your sister will come back."
I was surprised when I was wrapped up in a hug by little Prim. So surprised I couldn't hold in the
chuckle that escaped my lips as I rubbed her head softly while smiling down at the head of hair I
could see.
No sooner than she hugged me she let go and gave me a smile before standing up and leaving the
room with her mother close behind who looked at me one last time before she finally left the
room.
Now alone with Katniss, I take one of the seats and sit down with her next to me staring at me
like I was the most mythical being to ever exist. That thought alone made me release a chuckle.
Seeing the look she gave me I shake my head side to side. "Your little sister is a sweetheart. I'm
not surprised you volunteered for her." Again I saw that face. That smile, and just like last time it
was gone before a blink of an eye. But even with that brief second, I knew that she was at least
human.
Chapter 3
Soon after that, a girl I guess was friends with Katniss walked in like a woman on a mission.
"They let you wear one thing from your district in the arena. One thing to remind you of home.
Will you wear this?" She holds out a circular pin with a small bird on it.
"Your pin?" Asked Katniss. She seemed confused and a little of something else that I couldn't
put my finger on.
"Here, I'll put it on your dress, alright?" The girl doesn't wait for an answer and puts the pin on to
Katniss's dress. "Promise you'll wear it into the arena, Katniss?" She asks. "Promise."
"Yes," Katniss responds before the girl leans down and kisses her on the cheek before looking at
me before giving me a nod and leaving. I decided not to comment. I knew how close female
friends could be just by being around them for the past week or so.
Soon enough another person entered turning out to be the guy who helped out earlier with Prim.
No sooner he entered he opened his arms and without hesitation, Katniss was in his arms getting
as close as she could to him. She seemed so safe, but at the same time weak. I couldn't help the
small smile that came to my face. It reminded me of my mom and me. Or when I was with Effie
when she needed me. "Listen," he says. "Getting a knife should be pretty easy, but you've got to
get your hands on a bow. That's your best chance."
"They don't always have bows," She says, most likely thinking of the year there were using
specific weapons.
"Then make one," says the guy. "Even a weak bow is better than no bow at all."
"And if there isn't any wood?" A good question on her part. There was that year that the arena
was in a desert. A nasty game that was.
"There's almost always some wood," the guy says. "Since that year half of them died of cold. Not
much entertainment in that."
The guy had a point. That game while severely sad was also pathetic. But I do understand the
issue with changing things up. People wanted something new and they delivered. Albeit not that
well since it was just a ‘see who becomes a popsicle last' contest.
"Yes, there's usually some," She says.
"Katniss, it's just hunting. You're the best hunter I know," says the guy.
"It's not just hunting. They're armed. They think," She says.
"So do you. And you've had more practice. Real practice, " he says. "You know how to kill."
"Not people," Katniss says. Oh, so that's what she's skilled at. I should have guessed from her
build alone. A hunter was a very good profession to have when you go to these games. Now I
know I have a reliable partner for the future.
"How different can it be, really?" says the guy grimly.
The awful thing is that I knew where he was coming from, I've been in those very situations.
Where you shut off your emotions so it will be no different at all from killing an animal.
Selena another peacekeeper under my regimen is back soon enough. The guy asks for more time,
but she shakes her head softly before her and another guard grabs his arm and begins to force
him out.
"Don't let them starve Gale!" Katniss cried out, clinging to his hand.
"I won't! You know I won't! Katniss, remember I —" he says, and they yank them apart and slam
the door.
I couldn't help the look that came to my face. The guy loved Katniss. That was adorable, but it
seemed Katniss didn't know that. Hmmm. Should I tell her?.... Yes, yes I should.
"He loves you." Simple and straight to the point. How it should be.
Her head whips around to me. Eyes locked on my own before she glares. "What?" I couldn't help
but smile softly. "He was saying to remember that he loves you before he left."
She was going to refuse but she went quiet as she thought over what I said and I let her be. Soon
enough we were escorted to a car and were on our way to the train station. It was a short ride but
it was a nice one from the storm that was approaching. Looking over to Katniss I saw she still
looked deep in thought of what I said. Feeling kinda sorry I decided to tell her, "When we get to
the station there will be a lot of reporters and the like. Make sure you have that mask of yours
on."
She turned to look at me but seeing the seriousness on my face decided to comply and slowly her
face became indifferent even bored looking.
When we finally got there we quickly got escorted out of the car and into the entrance of the
station where sure enough were reporters. With a breath, I take my steps being guarded by the
patrol with us as we make our way through the crowd face with a soft smile and a nod to anyone
who called out my name. When asked questions I shook my head softly and said, "Maybe later."
That seemed to placate many of them, but their sights were then set on Katniss who just ignored
them.
We reached the train fine enough where we stood in the doorway getting peppered with photos
before we're allowed in to be finally out of the flash of the lights. The train begins to move.
The takeoff was easy for me to handle but it seemed Katniss was caught off guard. Not
surprising really as the train was faster than anything she could of possibly rid upon. I grabbed
her shoulder and let her steady herself before she pulls away and gives a nod which I return.
I was lead off to the room where only less than two hours ago I was a peacekeeper, but now it
was for what was in all fashions a prisoner. I shook my head at the thoughts. It wasn't the place
or time to feel like that. Standing up I grab some clothes before jumping in the shower enjoying a
nice warm shower. Actually thinking about it, this was going to be one of the last showers I have
before the games start. Heh, well that sucks.
Turning off the water I get out before drying my body and hair before grabbing some nice cool
clothes consisting of a black undershirt with a pair of loose white jeans. Getting ready to walk
out I quickly check my hair to see if it looked okay, surprisingly it did. With that, I left to meet
for dinner with Effie and Katniss wondering if anyone else would join else. "Maybe Haymitch...
If he's conscious that is." The thought of what happened made me chuckle. It was an amusing
sight and just the thought of it made me want to laugh for a day or so, but I stopped myself from
doing so.
Reaching the dining area I saw that there was no one there besides a couple of the girls who I
greeted with a hug to each who returned the embrace tenfold. Giving them a smile I struck up a
conversation between them all. Soon though my love and Katniss entered the room making me
smile softly at both of them. It seemed to make Katniss calm sightly to see someone she was ok
with. Effie, on the other hand, rushed over to me and jumped and hugged me on my seat asking
me if everything was alright and a whole bunch of other stuff. Seriously together for less than an
hour or two and she's already so worried. God, I love this girl.
After calming her down and sitting her in her seat I kiss her cheek and quickly stand and lead
Katniss to her seat before sitting down myself.
"Where's Haymitch?" Effie asked curiously.
"No idea really. Any of you see him?" I asked my question directed to the three girls in the room
who nodded.
"He retired to his room for the night." Spoke who I believed to be Ella. A nice girl with a kind
heart who wished to care for animals but ended up in the peacekeepers. How that happened I
have no idea so don't ask me.
"Well, he did kind of faceplant off a stage. Not forgetting the exhausting day today." Effie
commented with a sigh. I ran my hand up and down her back causing her to hmm with a smile.
Soon enough the food came and we began to eat. Soon enough I had a thought and gestured for
Samantha to come over which she did. Whispering in her ear for a moment she stood up straight
before nodding and walking away. I got a look from both Effie and Katniss but I waved their
curiosity away and told them they will know in a few minutes.
Not long after all the guards quickly entered the room before they started to push tables together
and pulling out chairs before sitting down. Katniss looked confused but everyone else just smiled
at me. Gesturing to the room I say, "Eat up everyone. This will be one of the last meals we have
together so enjoy yourselves." They all nodded and began eating.
And for the rest of the meal we talked, laughed, and generally enjoyed ourselves. Hell, even
Katniss responded to some questions… well, when she wasn't stuffing her face mumbling, "So
good." After every other bite. And for a second I felt some normality for maybe the first time
since my name came out of that bubble.
But before long I saw that Katniss didn't look so good. Standing up I walk to her side of the table
before patting her shoulder softly gaining her attention. "You shouldn't have eaten so fast." The
look I received was quite scary but I waved it off. I knew why she ate like she did but still, she
needs to take her time. "I know it's good but take your time. Here." I lean over the table and grab
a glass bottle with a calm-looking woman's face on the cover before presenting it to Katniss.
"This should settle your stomach. The other one though…" You point towards a clear bottle with
no real identification to it. "Never. And I mean never drink that." "Why?" My face twisted into
disgust. "People drink that to become sick. It makes you vomit so you can eat more." The face of
disgust she returned to me made me smile. "Happy to see you agree with me. Disgusting." After
going back to my seat I continue chatting and eating.
After eating we left to go to another compartment to watch the recap of the reapings across
Panem. Seeing everything pulled on my heartstrings more then it should of. I've already seen
these happenings in person so it should hurt less to see Rue from District 11 get picked. But.. it
didn't