DSITRICT 2 FEMALE - CLAUDIA REDWOOD

Claudia took a deep breath, smoothing out her mulberry purple dress. It had a purple lace sides with skin coloured material underneath. There was a triangle piece of purple material running through the middle and down into the short skirt and a black belt wrapped around her waist.

"Claudia, the only way you can win is if you get sponsors so make sure that you seem likeable "Okay get ready, your next." Her stylist looked at her once checking her makeup and dress before pulling her to the stage entrance.

"And now Claudia Redwood from district two!" Claudia walked up the short ramp towards the stage, still struggling to walk with the high heels that Aurelius had put her in. She quickly sat down on the seat and looked out at the audience smiling and hoping that she would make a good first impression to the Capitol. "So Claudia, How do you feel about going into the games?" Claudia turned her head slightly towards the host Vaelyn Xaiver.

"Well, Confident considering that I am a child of two past victors but nonetheless nervous, there are so many skilled people this year and we have no idea what the arena will be like." She nodded her head once and smiling.

"A daughter of two past victors, how exiting!" She said "So, what do you think sets you apart from the other tributes?"

"Most likely my ability to adapt to my surroundings and use what resources are available, since I have been training since I was young I am able to make use of objects that to others might just seem like something invaluable." Claudia turned her head towards the capitol smiling slightly hoping to make a good impression.

"So tell me about your family in two." She looked out to the audience and then back to Claudia waiting for her answer.

"Well I have a younger sister named Catia she's nine, ten in a few weeks. Then there's my mother, Annabel she won the eighty fourth games and my father, James who won the who won the seventy ninth games." Claudia smiled at the cameras that she noticed were moving to get a better view of the stage.

"So do you have any Allies yet?" Vaelyn raised one of her perfectly shaped eyebrows at Claudia.

"No not yet, I am planning on having one or two though. I would make it safer for me and the other tribute." Claudia shifted around in her seat trying to find a comfier position. Claudia knew that if she were allies with to many people she would get to attached to them all and they would be to hard to kill.

"Well I'm sure you will have many people who would like to take up that spot." The quiet buzzer went off signalling the end of the two minutes. "Oh what an interesting girl. Claudia is sure to bring heat into these games I can't wait to see more. Once again Claudia Redwood!" With that Claudia got off the chair and walked off the stage smiling and waving at the crowd as she walked back into the wings.

"You did great!" Claudia turned her head towards Aurelius.

"Do you think so?" Claudia smiled awkwardly and Aurelius nodded his head once.

"Let's go now, it's getting late and you need to rest before the games." Aurelius put his arm around Claudia and they both walked into the limo that was to take Claudia to her room.

~~~~

DISTRICT 4 FEMALE - ANASTASIA JEURLIA

I took a deep breath, and nervously combed my long, wavy brown hair with my right hand as I waited for the District 4 male tribute, Beckett to finish his interview with the host of the games, Vaelyn Xiavia. I jumped slightly when I heard Vaelyn's high-pitched voice call out, "And that is Beckett Malen, the male tribute from District 4!" I heard the audience clap and cheer enthusiastically.

Now, it's my turn.

As Beckett exited the stage, I heard Vaelyn call, "Now, let's give a big round of applause for the District 4 female tribute, Anastasia Juerlia!"

That's my cue. I took another breath and forced my wobbly legs to carry me up to the stage where Vaelyn sat. She gave me a reassuring smile which I returned. As soon as I sat on the red plush chair, I immediately felt my nerves relax. When the clapping and cheering faded, Vaelyn turned to me. Her emerald-green eyes seemed to sparkle in the lights and her light blonde curls seemed to catch the light. I subconsciously wondered if she had put any glitter in her hair to make it shine like that.

"So, Ana," Vaelyn began.

Despite the warnings from my mentor, I interrupted, "Actually, I like to be called Anastasia."

Vaelyn chuckled, "Well then, Anastasia, tell us a little about yourself."

I sat up a little straighter and make direct eye contact with the audience and cameramen, "Well, as you already know, my name's Anastasia, and-"

For no reason I could figure out, the audience laughed at this. I gave them a half-smile and continued on, "I'm 17 years old. I live with my family in District 4. My preferred weapon is a dagger, and some of my skills are staying still and surprising the enemy. However, I don't really like killing."

There were anxious murmurs from the audience at my last words and immediately I felt nauseous. Anastasia, you're not supposed to name your weakness! Say something else!

Vaelyn pursed her lips, "Really, Anastasia? How...interesting. But first, tell us about your family."

I decided that I don't like Vaelyn. Her hair sparkled almost blindingly and she wore way too much golden eyeliner, making her green eyes seem twice as large. Not to mention her puffy purple and green dress. I never got why citizens of the Capitol always dressed so...crazily. I was perfectly content with the blue strapless satin dress I was wearing today.

"I live with my parents and my younger brother, Cal. Well, actually his full name is Calviouys, but I call him Cal for short," I felt myself smiling at the thought of Cal-his adorable, sweet smile and his large, innocent blue eyes. Both of us have mother's eyes-bright blue, but Cal has father's shaggy blonde hair. Vaelyn seemed to pick up on my emotions, and seemed to know that there was a story there.

"Cal sounds simply delightful," she said, placing a hand on my knee, "Care to share? I'm sure everyone would love to hear about your delightful little brother."

"My brother-" I stopped as soon as I realized something. Cal had a learning disability, and it was no secret that I stood up for him numerous times. I could use this story to my advantage. I didn't like to use Cal as an example, but I knew it would give me a good image. A good image means sponsors, and sponsors mean more chance of survival. Plus I needed to reverse the damage I did at the beginning of the interview. I snapped out of my thoughts to see Vaelyn staring me expectantly.

"Cal, my brother, he has a learning disability," I began, sitting up straighter. There were numerous gasps from the audience, even a few 'awwws' from the more tender-hearted ones. Good job girl, I thought to myself, seeing that everyone's attention was now on me,Make them feel sorry.

"He gets picked on a lot, at school," I continued, "And I hate that. I hate bullies. So whenever I see him in trouble," I allowed a smirk to creep up on my face, "I make sure the bully doesn't bother him again."

The audience nodded in approval. There were a few cheers, but I knew I needed more than that to convince them that I was going to win these games. I could and I will!

I turned back to Vaelyn, who was staring at me wide-eyed. Well, I thought she was. It might've been the golden eyeliner playing tricks on me again. "I'm not helpless," I stated loudly, "I have skills. I may not look it, but I'm strong. I can fight. And I will fight!"

At my last sentence, the audience goes bonkers. They stood up, screaming, cheering, and waving their hats. When the crowd died down again, I could tell that I've made an impression.

Vaelyn pretended to wipe a fake tear from her cheek and sniffled dramatically loudly, "I'm sure Cal would be very proud right now of his beautiful sister. And something tells me," Vaelyn smiled slightly, "That with looks like that, and your tactical approach towards the games...you'll be changing your mind pretty soon. You just have too much in store for us!"

Before I could reply to Vaelyn's comment, the gong sounded, signalling that my interview was over. I stood up proudly and Vaelyn stands up beside me. She grabbed a hold of my right hand and raises it up forcefully so that my hand and hers are up in the air.

"Anastasia Juerlia!" she announced proudly. The crowd cheered again. We both stay in that position for a few more seconds before Vaelyn let's go of her killer grip on my hand. I dropped my hand down and give it a self-conscious rub on my dress. Vaelyn had really long nails.

I exited the stage as Vaelyn sat down again. As I walk away from the crowd, I felt a smirk creeping up on my lips. Somehow, I think the audience doesn't think of me as the 'girl who doesn't like to kill' anymore. They-or most of them anyway-now thought of me as the 'girl who protects' or the 'girl that would fight until the very end'. I was glad for that, because that was what I wanted to be known as. Not a whimpering fool. I want to be known as a warrior!

The clinking noise from my charm bracelet startled me back into reality. I looked down at my wrist where the charm bracelet sits. The fish pendant jingled slightly. At once, I felt the ever-familiar ache of homesickness for my family. My father, my mother, and Cal of course. My fingers grasped a hold of the fish pendant and gave it a tight squeeze.

I would come home. I would survive this and come home. I would.

I had too.

~~~~

DISTRICT 6 FEMALE - NARIAN ALICIA CARMILE

I play with the soft green material of my dress. I've always liked the idea of dressing up. It's probably the only girlish quality that I have.

Toby Winters is being interviewed currently and I briefly wonder if I'm going to be okay with the crowds when I get out there. I'm already nervous and my interview hasn't even started yet. It probably doesn't bode well for me.

Vaelyn Xiavia calls out my name. "Let's give a warm welcome to... Narian Carmile! She's one to ally with. Not many are aware of so much medicine and I believe Narian will get far."

The crowd cheers enthusiastically and I know I should be going onto stage.

I hesitate, panic forming inside of me, bubbling up and threatening to spill over. I quell it, stepping out into the light. If you aren't afraid to cut into people, then answering a few questions shouldn't hurt. I remind myself.

The crowd draws an appreciative breath, probably admiring my dress. I have to admit, though, I do look stunning in it. My stylist is really good at his job. It's a good thing, too, because I would never have worn anything like some of the costumes that other tributes wore.

It's a soft green fabric, which sets off my eyes perfectly. The sleeves slide over my shoulders and come to rest a couple of inches below my shoulders. The fabric of my skirt sweeps around and is pinned up by a slightly darker green bow. Other bows are placed strategically around the long skirt, just enough to look decorated, but not so many that it looks gaudy.

I grin out at the crowd, forcing the smile onto my face in effort to hide my anxiety. Vaelyn must sense it, though, because she leans over to me as I sit down and mutters, "You have every right to be nervous, Narian. I'll go easy on you. Just answer the questions and do your best to make the crowd like you." She flashes a smile and straightens.

"Thank you," I reply, letting a real smile replace my fake one.

"Let's get to it, then. Tell me about your home. Do you have anyone cheering you on?" Vaelyn's voice is soft, soothing almost. I focus on it, drawing strength from it.

"Not that I know of. I stayed separated there, but I'd like to think some of the people I helped are out there cheering me on.

"I'm painfully aware of how quiet and vulnerable I sound. Maybe it will appeal to some, but no one wants a weak ally.

"I'm sorry to hear that. Don't you have family?" Vaelyn almost looks sympathetic, but I know she isn't. Her eyes show her lack of sympathy clearly.

"No," I say. "Peacekeepers shot my mother and my father died when I was three." No use hiding the ugly truth from them.

The crowd boos and I decide that maybe they aren't all heartless. They just haven't been taught everything I have, about caring for other people and caring about life as if it's a priceless treasure.

"Oh. I'm so sorry. Let's try something else then. What was running through your head when you were called?" Vaelyn leans forward a bit, expectant.

"Well, I agreed with Azrael. The districts don't deserve this. I was ticked off, let's say. But I suppose everyone has their own opinions, and if you think that the Games are good, then..." I trail off, not sure what else to say.

The crowd is mostly silent, probably not sure how to reply to that. A few people cheer, but it doesn't catch on.

"Splendid. Well. Everyone has their own rights to their emotions. I believe that you are right about opinions too. But let's see if we can't ask you a question you aren't expecting. Something I haven't asked anyone else. I've saved this one just for you. What do you feel every time you save another life in District Six?"

I let out a slow breath, calming myself. "Elation. I feel victory. It's exhilarating, to know that I've managed to save someone from death."

"And what about the people you can't save?" Vaelyn's voice drops low, almost to a whisper, as if she knows the answer is painful.

"It makes me feel guilty, to know that I could save someone else, but not them. It makes me want to curl up and die sometimes. But if you help those you can help, then you're already doing your best, I suppose." My voice cracks a little and tears threaten to spill over. Memories of the day my only friend died of disease threaten to surface. I force them away and smile again, making myself remember all of the other lives I'd saved.

"You've been dealt a mean hand in the world, Narian, but you've shown a brave face through it all. I admire you for that."

"Thank you," I whisper hoarsly. The memories are still there, hiding in the back of my mind, dormant, for now.

"Let's move on to happier things, shall we? How do you like it here, in the Capitol?" Vaelyn smiles as the crowd cheers again.I look out at them and find my happier side. I smile. This isn't too bad. Maybe one day I'll get used to it. I tell myself.

"There's a lot more food," I say finally.Chuckles erupt from the crowd and I grin wider. "Everything you could ever want is here, and other things you couldn't even dream here. But it's nothing compared to home."

"What do you mean by that?" Vaelyn inquires.

"Home is where I belong. District Six is where I belong. I don't fit in here. You can dress me up and put fancy wigs on my head and call me one of you, but I'm just visiting, and I plan on going home as soon as possible."

"Well that's wonderful then. Our time is just about up, so I'll just ask you one last question. How did you fare alone, without anyone there for you on your darkest days?"

I think back to all of those days in my dark little alley, clutching the golden chain that my mentor and one friend had given to me. "It's good luck." He'd said. I still believe that.

"I held to my hope that one day, the world would be a better place one day soon," I find myself saying. It's a lie. I'd lost all hope of that happening years ago. The only thing that kept me anchored to this world was my mentor's golden chain and his last words to me. "Everything will be fine if you always believe that. And remember, if you ride the waves of life, you'll lose sight of who you are. Always remember that."

I realize Vaelyn had dismissed me and I get up, walking off stage wordlessly. I need some time alone, I decide. Maybe I can slip out.Toby Winters grabs my arm. I try not to flinch from the contact. Memories arise again, but I push them down, refusing to let them scare me.

"Good job out there, Narian." He mutters.

I smile and nod. "You too. Thanks."I slip past him and leave in search of my rooms. I already know my way around the place perfectly, so I try to figure out the route with the least amount of Peacekeepers so I won't get caught. Unfortunately, that includes taking the stairs. Before I get there, though, a Peacekeeper spots me and calls me over.

"I'm sorry. I just need some space. I was going to head to my rooms." I try to sound complacent, but it probably doesn't come off that way.

"No one leaves until the interviews are over, kid." He leans closer. "Besides, you may hear something there that you can use. Personally, I'd think it'd be nice if Six won this year; especially with such a beautiful lady as their female representative."

"Are you drunk?" I deadpan. "I'll go back, but you need to stay well away from me. I'm supposed to be a deadly killer, remember." I move away, but her grabs my arm and pulls me close enough that he can whisper in my ear.

"Watch out for Alexander in the arena, girl. I'd hate to see him kill you." His breath smells like alcohol, confirming my earlier suspicions.I pull back and shudder.

"Thanks." I mutter, before slipping back behind stage to join the rest of the tributes.

Demetriot touches my arm as I go past. "Are you okay?" He asks. He sounds genuinely concerned, and it makes me want to smile. It's ironic, that the only people I've met who seem to genuinely care about me are either dead or possibly going to be dead, if I was to make it home.

I nod wordlessly. "Thanks for asking."

"Any time," he replies.

I slip past and join Toby again.

He looks at me. "You were gonna leave." It wasn't a question.

"I wanted some time alone, but a drunken Peacekeeper stopped me. I decided to just come back here," I reply.

He shrugs. "Well, you're better company than some people here." He gives a pointed glance toward Alexander from two.

"Watch out for Alexander in the arena, girl. I'd hate to see him kill you." I decide then and there that if I meet up with Alexander, the first thing I'm gonna do is run the other way as fast as I can.

~~~~

DISTRICT 7 FEMALE - GLOXINIA CARVER

I pushed back a lock of my hair behind my ear, careful not to mess up the gloxinia flowers arranged as a headband and down till the very end of my loose and messy braid that fell down to my waist. I was standing with the other tributes in a single file waiting to be called up one by one for our interview.

Unlike, since the time I've come to Capitol I wasn't making conversation with anyone. I was too nervous to function, too terrified for the first time of being judged. I was raised to live in the Capitol, after all that's what my parents had wanted and things would've worked out if not for the miserable but perhaps for the better turn of events. I was charismatic when I needed to be but that's all I could rely on today or even through out the hunger games.

I wasn't trained to become a fighter but I had taught myself enough that should help me scrape through and with enough help I had a good chance of winning as any other trained tribute. Either I was sure of myself or I'd die being a comical narcissist, only time would tell.

Hopefully, all I needed to survive was quick thinking and lots of love from my sponsors then maybe I could make it. I hope I made it but what terrified me further was did I want to make it? Did I have anything to turn back to when I went back home? I'd have to continue my mundane existence of being perfect, pretending to have moved on, pretending of not having murdered a murderer.

I shook my head in an attempt to shake away the ridiculous ideas. I had to win and I would. To distract myself I tugged at the hem of my dress. It was short, shimmery and quite thin light green dress. It was tight around my waist and had off shoulder sleeves.  Every inch of my tanned skin that was exposed was covered in gold glitter and some parts of my face and the outer side of my legs were covered in an intricate pattern of branches that were stenciled out. My heels were quite high and were the ones which had to be tied up around the calf till the knee.

I looked like those mystical goddesses you'd come across in old books and I was sure I'd get sponsors for this alone. I went over all the tips my mentor had given me, nothing I wasn't aware off.

Impress them. Win them over and you'll win it.

I stared at the back of the head of the boy from district six. He was so tall and that's what I did till I was called, I admired him from the back, wondering if I should start a romance with one of the older tributes just for the heck of surviving and  getting us more sponsors and public love. The fact that people actually thought love could be found in a death arena where everyone has to kill each other is pathetic.

I made my way up the stage as I heard the crowd cheering my name. I bit back a smirk, instead put on a wide smile and waved at the crowd that made them scream out louder. Each year the place looked like a dream and got better. The lights were so bright you'd mistake the late night to be early morning. The balconies high at the corners make the room look larger yet the people sitting there looked so close. The camera crew positioned at their places as if they were those mechanical toys that move about in one place.

I took the extended hand of the host, Vaelyn Xiavia and kissed into the air on both sides of her cheek. Now, Vaelyn was an interesting character. She was a true reporter more than a host, she had a shrewd gaze and she'd do her best to get the inside story. She had her own way to make tributes look interesting and it was hardly ever a nice attribute. Her hair, eyebrows and eyes were a bright violet that somehow didn't contrast violently against her pale skin. She wore large red rimmed cat eye shaped glasses, a recent trend she had made quite popular in the Capitol. She wore a gold shimmery dress with the highest possible slit I had ever seen that showed her prominent hip bone and her large heels. Her violet eyes rimmed with green sparkly eyeliner.

"Gloxinia , what's is like being in the Capitol? What have you thought about it so far?" Vaelyn asked once we were seated. Unlike me, she hasn't crossed one leg over the other for which I was thankful for.

"Oh, it's beautiful! I could certainly see myself getting comfortable here." The crowd chuckled at that. Vaelyn raised an eyebrow and smiled timidly, obviously this wasn't her favorite question.

"What do you think will be the most difficult challenge for you in the games?"

"Bugs. Definitely big, icky, creepy crawlies." The audience laughed and I let an internal sigh of relief. Bored of the general questions, Vaelyn jumped the gun.

"Well, since your brother was here last year it wouldn't be surprising if you wondered what he felt like being in the same spot as he was." At that moment,I realized I had underestimated Vaelyn. I froze for a second. I should have been prepared for this question but I wasn't. Any reminder of Sawyer hurt and even after a year I couldn't talk about it. From the moment I was reaped I avoided any thought of Sawyer and how he must've felt.

How I couldn't help him. How I had failed him.

"It's hard," my voice quivered but I held onto my smile, "but he didn't die in vain and I've come to respect that, that things happen for a reason."

"And Dax? What was the reason of his death?" The three minute time limit must've stretched to a three hour limit as an exception for me.

"The same thing. I think the saddest part of my life have been broadcasted and spoken about enough for the past year. I'm hoping after the games I will be known for something else, something better."

"You can't run from your past nor can you run from what you'll face in the games, Gloxinia." Vaelyn gave a small laugh.

"Only if you aren't a fast runner." I chuckled and the crowd chuckled with me like an automatic machine.

"So those you kill won't die in vain?" Vaelyn asked not hiding her smirk. I smirked back and winked at the audience.

"Your betcha! Underneath this soft exterior is a warrior." Making the crowd roar with laughter.

"Hot bloody hell, this girl is going to be a grave competitor." Vaelyn said, I threw back my head and laughed because for the first time she actually complimented me.

"Watch me win the games with my flowery scent." I said, "but if I win it would mostly be from the love of the beautiful people from the Capitol and districts. Blessings take people very far."

"They surely do. May the odds be ever in your favour, Gloxinia." Vaelyn said and exactly at that moment the three minute time slot of mine was over as the buzzer went off. I stood up and embraced Vaelyn once more before I left the stage. I ran my hand through my hair pulling out a few of the gloxinia flowers and threw it at the audience giving them a small reminder of me.

I passed by the boy from my district and gave him a comforting smile and the rest of the tributes that waited nervously. I avoided looking at any of the younger boys. They reminded me too much of Sawyer and it hurt too much to comprehend and I couldn't afford losing focus right now.

I had carefully dogged the questions about Sawyer and Dax but there was so much I could run before the past caught up with me. Especially, when I wasn't even sure what was my reason to try and win the games. Was it a way of finding closure of overcoming Sawyers' death when Dax's hadn't? Would I be able to kill the little kids or any of the tributes and overcome my past by this sick therapy? I didn't want to kill but I knew I'd have to and some part of me was afraid I'd enjoy it more than I should and unleash a monster that I could never turn back from. I would bring pride to my fallen younger brothers' name but I knew being merciless wouldn't be just to Sawyers' memory.

I looked over at my allies and I was sure of one thing. We'd sustain ourselves till the moment we'd have to turn against each other and I'd be a shame to the name Gloxinia Carver if I didn't make use of them in the best possible way.

Let the games begin and may the odds be ever in my favor.

~~~~

DISTRICT 8 FEMALE - ASLANE KENWAY

Vaelyn Xiavia was the host for this years' interviews. She was exceptionally tall; her five inch stiletto heels served only to make her tower over most other people around her. Her dress was ridiculously beautiful, expensive, and decorated with swirls, gold and silver sequins, and tiny jewels of all colors. I wondered what kind of beadwork went into getting all the jewels to stay on the dress itself.

Glancing down at myself, I felt plain. I was wearing a white outfit, comprised of pants and a shirt in a military-cut style, but it was more relaxed, like a civilian outfit. It was supposed to show that I came from the same area in district eight where they made the Peacekeeper uniforms.

Instead of the typical black on white pattern, though, mine was white with a deep, dark royal blue. The cloth was a heavy silk that felt very comfortable against my skin. Rather than military boots, I was wearing high-heeled shoes, fortunately not as tall as Vaelyn's. Mine had a fancy, elegant design, and were also dark blue in color. Instead of the Peacekeeper helmet, my hair was twisted into an updo, with jewels and decorative chains braided into it. The jewels were all mostly sapphires.

I walked onstage, smiling brightly and warmly. The crowd cheered as Vaelyn announced my district and my name. She gestured to the chair beside her and I sat. I tried to remember what Olive, my trainer had told me about the interview.

"You're bubbly and fun so show them that! Just be yourself," Olive had said.

Vaelyn returned my smile with a blatantly fake one of her own. "What a lovely outfit! You look almost like a Peacekeeper!" she snickered, which received a laugh spreading through the audience.

Keeping my smile in check, I nodded. "I come from the same area in district eight where they make the Peacekeeper outfits, you know. My mother has actually worked at that factory her entire life."

Vaelyn cocked her head, feigning interest. "Well, what do you do for a living?"

I shrugged. "Oh, I've done a few odd jobs here and there. Whenever they need help at the factory, I give them a hand. I also work with my mother on the side."

Yes, I also have to help put food on the table, take care of my three younger siblings, pay the bills, make sure we have enough coal to last until we can buy more... Not to mention doing the household chores, I thought bitterly. And taking care of a mother who works herself to death and somehow managing to find time to spend with my boyfriend...

Vaelyn flipped her perfectly, straight, pink hair behind her back, before blinking her absurdly long eyelashes at me. "That's so nice, dear. I'm glad to see that everyone in your community is pulling their weight to help supply the Peackeepers with the necessary supplies." She smiled, but her eyes looked at me deviously.

I didn't reply. I couldn't. It was as if we weren't stressing to pay the bills on time, struggling to find enough to eat and to survive.

Hoping we wouldn't starve each and every night.

In the silence that followed because of my pause, Vaelyn crossed her legs. "That's all well and good, but what kind of training have you had? Do you think you'll be able to contend with the other tributes in the arena, especially the Careers?"

I couldn't hold back the laugh that escaped my lips. Her question was so typical. As if the petite, lovely girl sitting beside her was nothing more than good-looks and pretty smiles. "I've kept this a secret, even from my mother, but I've actually fought in many of the underground fighting arenas.  So I'm not some helpless, little country bumpkin. I've spilled my fair share of blood." Right after I spoke, I flashed the audience a toothy grin.

Let them wonder, I thought.

"Oh!" Vaelyn gasped. "Well, have you ever used any weapons?"

In response, I reached into the pocket of my uniform to pull out my pair of brass knuckles.

She didn't even ask where they'd come from, or how I'd smuggled them in there. As the buzzer went off, she stood up and reached her hand out for me to shake. "Other than those brass knuckles, you seem, well typical. Surprise us, girl, you will need it."

Anger slammed into my chest in a fury. I stood, smiling as brightly as I could and shook her hand.

I'll show her just how surprising I can be, I thought.

I kneed her in the stomach as hard as I could, making sure my knee rammed her belly button, driving her breath out. She collapsed onto the floor as I turned around.

Everything went completely silent.

All you could hear was Vaelyn gasping for breath, and my heels clicking as I slowly strolled off the stage.

~~~~

DISTRICT 10 FEMALE - BELLONA VIELLANA

I am dressed in an unembellished burgundy dress. There is absolutely nothing characteristic about it, nothing that shimmers when I move or anything catches the light. I was overwrought about it at first, but then Charisma, my stylist, said, "I want them to remember you, not your dress." I dimpled as I was placed into it and then my black boots. At least they weren't heels.

            All us tributes walk in a straight line until we reach the side of the stage. Already my peripheral vision is blinded by the nebula-like lights, and I'm all the way in the back. My district partner, Ayres, is in front of me and Demetroit is behind me. I don't care for either of them. For one, my partner declined my invitation of being temporary allies. Even though I always greeted him back home. For another, Demetroit, or Troy as he likes to be called, keeps asking me to be his Helen. It's disgusting and childish.

            We are seated and I see Vaelyn Xiavia. Only I think it is because I am still temporarily blinded. As my focus comes back, I see it is her. Her chocolate skin makes her bubblegum pink lips stick out like a sore thumb. I still don't know what that means, but that's what Wyatt, my mentor, said about me and my affection. It doesn't matter, I took it as a compliment.

            As every person walks up to the stage for their three minutes of fame, I use the tactic that Wyatt taught me: stereotype. Stereotype all of them and see which I like the most. I am usually right about people, so I'll know who I want to ally with.

            Azrael goes for stunning brute; Lulu goes for simple-minded. The pair from Two goes for frightening. You can tell that they're trying to deceive the audience. No one is that brutal or callous. And then quite suddenly, I am proved wrong. Acmetha goes up and becomes the most alarming tribute in the history of the Games. He's a psychopath! He even admits it himself. But I like him, he's ingenuous about who he is. I make a note to ask him about allying. We'd be an odd pair, but peculiar is good. In my books at least. His partner leaves no impression on me.

            The pair from Four does, though. Beckett and Anastasia. The first thing about him that is noticed is that he is handsome and personable. That'll give him some sponsors. Prepossessing faces always do. As he answers his questions, I become more intrigued. He is an even mix, like I am; he is both brains and brawns. She, Anastasia, is unpredictable. I fall in love with her stratagem mind. Even Vaelyn says she's one to watch for. And I certainly will.

            The tributes come and go, and they all sadly fall into one category: either smart or vicious, sexy or simple, memorable or not. I don't know what I'll fit in to. So far, no one seems nice and approaching. They're all cold and closed-off. I will be disparate.

            Vaelyn goes through some cue cards and twinkles warmly when she sees me approaching her. Now that I am closer (and that my vision is back), I take her all in. Her white hair only reaches to her chin, but it is still intricately curled. My hair is also curled, but it is loose.

            Her eyes are not green, but golden. I hope they aren't altered because that would just prove that the Capitol could create something pure and beautiful. The Capitol is anything but. Her lips are a nice, soft pink, but they seem too plump.

            Her skin is the most beautiful of all. It is not even the fact that it has no flaws from age or growing up, but it's the color! It is as rich as soil and probably as soft. I resist the urge to touch her just to see that she is real, but I manage to say, "Wow." She laughs softly and a few people chuckle.

            "Aren't you just a sweet heart?" She says and I grin naturally. Compliments are gifts.

            "Thank you."

            "So, Bellona, tell me. From what I've read, you aren't like most of our tributes here. You're different," she starts.

            "I can only hope you've heard good things, and that different is robust here!" Why am I so nervous? She's just a person. Stunning, but still human.

            She grins back, "Of course, only good things. Do you know the origin of your name?" I shake my head, "Well, in Roman times, Bellona was a warrior goddess. People prayed to her for luck and victory in war. Do you think you'll be a warrior?"

            "I'm a candor person, so I'll have to answer honestly," I start to say, "Yes. I hope I will. I mean, I wouldn't kill on first sight, but I will kill eventually. I just want to stay true to myself."

            She thinks about my response, "And who are you, Bellona?"

            Who am I? This should be the easiest thing for me. I know who I am, no one change that, "I'm Bellona. Just a simple, delightful girl from Ten. Although some people think it's an act. It's not. Of course I have some fight in me, I've killed before. But I'm still pleasant. I go out of my way to be pleasurable."

            "Why? Why do you try so hard if people don't appreciate it?"

            "Because this world is repugnant and repulsive; it needs some form of beauty, even if it isn't physically alluring or palpably aesthetic."

            "Such big words for a 'simple' girl." I beam from her friendly mimic, "I'm only joking. Can I add something?"

            "Of course you can, it is your show," I reply and then realize it was a rhetorical question.

            She frowns slightly, "Are you sure you aren't sarcastic?"

            I snicker with the rest of the crowd and riposte, "Sorry! It was a slip of the tongue."

            She continues, "I believe you're beautiful. Or as you said, 'palpably aesthetic.'"

            I am in stupefaction, "Me? Really. Thank you for your kind words, but I don't want to be physically beautiful. It would change how I view myself. Thank you though"

            "Ahh, here we have it folks. Wasn't surprised to see a sweet one in this pile of psychopaths and blood killers," Vaelyn finishes off, "Best of luck, Bellona Viellana. Be a warrior for me."

~~~~

DISTRICT 11 FEMALE - EBONY HOLBROOK

Everything Ebony owned was something somebody else no longer wanted. Nothing she had ever had was brand new, there just wasn't the money. Clothes didn't fit, lights never functioned; but because of it, she prided herself on her ability to innovate. She could make anything work; anything fit, and never consider anything useless. Now, standing in front of the mirror, she saw that she was no longer the hand-me-down of District Eleven. She had transformed into something new.

They had scrubbed her skin clean, stripped it of every hair that could have ever been out of place and somehow still made it glow with life. The untamable black curls that frolicked freely around her face had been pulled up for the first time she could remember. A delicate gold clasp held to the side of the bun that her stylists had miraculously wrapped. Her features were striking under very simple makeup-every sharp edge and defined curve giving her a hostile and unattainable beauty.

The soft gold of the evening gown had seemed out of place when they had first dressed her. By itself, it was beautiful. The material swept across the floor, rippling with the light as she walked. It held tight to her torso, slowly beginning to expand outwards to her feet. It made her look almost ethereal, like a delicate angel sent to save the souls of the world.

But Ebony was not an angel. Which is why a choker of sharp, black lace stretched across the front of her throat, connecting with the sleeves before spiraling down the expanse of the dress. The designs were razor-edged and fierce, hard glittering jewels reflecting a dark light back at those who looked on her. And suddenly, the angel was gone. In her place was something different. Something fearless and cold; who looked down upon the foolish and mortal world with not an ounce of mercy in her eyes.

The sound of applause pulled her out of her trance. She could hear the laughter of Vaelyn Xiavia as another tribute left the stage. Ebony turned away from the mirror, focused intently on the stage to her far left, where she would soon walk out into the eyes and arms of the Capitol.

"Now this next one, ladies and gentlemen, is a real treat." The accompanying voice was like honey over razor blades. Sweet, but every word was another throat slit. "She's a beautiful face to go with an even lovelier name, one we'll all be cheering for soon enough! And without further ado, all the way from District Eleven, I give you-Ebony Holbrook!"

She was not afraid. Even as she glided onto the stage, in the eyes of every person who lived, she was not afraid. If anything, she felt like they should be afraid of her. And they were. Even without looking at them, she felt like she knew them already-every petty secret and obvious lie, out in the open for her to bear witness to. Which is why she never so much as cracked a smile, eyes trained on the growing shape of Vaelyn Xiavia. These people were below her.

They were insects under her feet.

A woman in a red dress, with a skirt wide enough to swallow them both whole, sat in the seat beside Ebony.  Her hair had been dyed a clashing, electric blue, arms lined with black jeweled cuffs and skin sparkling with glitter. Although she knew the face of the host, it stirred no emotion inside of her. This woman was just another Capitol pawn. Another person trying to make a living in this circus.

Ebony sat beside her, smoothing her skirt as she focused entirely on her host. The woman smiled, red lipstick and white teeth turning upward into what she assumed was supposed to be a reassuring gesture. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Ebony. And my, how beautiful you look! Truly, hats off to your stylist." Vaelyn chuckled, looking out into the crowd, "To be honest, I'm a little scared to be sitting this close."

The audience laughed in agreement. The corners of Ebony's mouth twitched into a small, fleeting smile. "I wouldn't worry, Ms. Xiavia. Even if I were to draw blood, your dress would not be ruined."

There was a short-lived pause from the hostess, before she tossed her head back and laughed. "Thank God for small miracles!" Tremors shook her shoulders as she tried to continued, the thought still amusing to her. "So, tell us, how have you liked the Capitol so far, my dear?"

"It's nice," Ebony answered. She could tell that Vaelyn did not like this answer. It was clipped, not the kind of thing one would expect from a tribute. This was their one chance at salvation later on in the Games. Their chance to grab a sponsor's attention. But Ebony was not going to play doll for some colorfully dressed, bloodthirsty Capitol dog with too much money on their hands.

They would either or love her or hate her. She didn't care.

"Just nice?" She leaned forward, closer to Ebony, keeping a smile on her face, "Well, surely you've got to have a favorite part? What is it? The food? The clothes? The color?"

Ebony tilted her head to the side, mulling over the options. "I like the trees."

Vaelyn seemed surprised with her answer, "The trees?" The smile on her face grew then, "That's right! District Eleven. Trees must be your specialty."

"Yes, it is." Ebony's hands twisted involuntarily in her lap at the thought of home, and she resisted the urge to scold herself. She did not want to give these people any reason to doubt her strength. They could take her movement as weakness, which was unacceptable.

Finally, the hostess sat back in her chair, crossing her legs under the folds of her dress. "Well, the trees here are very beautiful, aren't they? But I'm sure you see more back at home, hmm?"

"Yes, I do."

Ebony could see her green eyes dart to the timer quickly, counting the seconds until she got to see the next tribute. "Why don't you tell us a little about home, Ebony? Since we're running short on time."

"Home?" Again, Ebony had to think. There wasn't much about home that she was willing, or able, to tell these people. They had seen most of it on their television screens on the day of the Reaping. Her mother had screamed when they called her to the platform. Which was common, of course. But it wasn't common for her to continue screaming for the remainder of the ceremony. "There's very little to say," she answered at last. "I support my mother and I, and make sure she lives comfortably. Other than that, you could easily read about my district life in any textbook."

There was a chuckle in the audience, but Ebony had not meant it to be a joke. "You must want to get back then," Vaelyn commented. "The Capitol is very exciting compared to District Eleven."

"I don't plan to win."

A silence settled across the audience, her words seeming to echo through the air as even the camera operators looked on in confusion. Her hostess chuckled, "Oh, come now! You can't give up before it's even begun!" she encouraged. Then, a sly smile crept across her face. "Wait, I get it." Vaelyn pointed her manicured finger towards Ebony, "You want us to think you're already out for the count, right? So then you can swoop in and take the prize!"

Ebony shook her head, and for the first time, a smile crawled across her features. "No, you don't understand." Her eyes focused on the audience at last, and she reveled in the silence of each and every person. "I know that I'm going to die-perhaps it will even be quickly. I can make promises of how I don't want to kill, but that's a lie. Once the Games begin-we're all out for blood. There's no one who wouldn't watch the arena burn if it meant they could go home."

She turned back to her hostess, eyes cold and unfeeling, "All I want to do before I go is light the match."