Please... Enjoy...

Take Care and Stay Safe! ~CANGEL

***

The Capitol

Penelope Bright

     The city shimmered before Penelope Bright's very eyes as she stood beneath the towering marble archways of her building, waiting for her car to arrive. The Capitol was alive with its usual grandeur—streets lined with sleek, polished buildings, the air scented with a delightful medley of floral notes and a hint of citrus. 

     The soft hum of Capitol-perfected machinery buzzed in the distance, a reminder that they were in the throes of modern perfection. Everywhere she looked, the world glistened, as if every surface had been crafted with a perfect blend of elegance and efficiency. It was perfect.

     Yet, as she stood there, dressed in her very best—looking sleek in a shimmery silver, floor-length dress that hugged her corseted figure and perfectly complemented her spun up silver hair decorated with glitter—the slightest furrow formed between her brows. 

     The car—usually timed with flawless precision—was now late by a minute. It shouldn't be. That was their job, after all. If there was no order to things, or expectations to be met, the beloved Capitol would descend into disarray, much like those Districts who hadn't yet learned how to set their priorities.

     Efficiency, grace, and order.

     High expectations, manners, and ambition were the keys to respect and success, walking hand in hand to achieve the much-desired influence among their peers

     Only one exception lingered on her mind. She scowled slightly at the thought of that wicked, wicked child. She had given up with Scarlet—the Wicked Wolfe could simply not be taught—but Penelope was determined to work well enough with her to get another Victor home.

     After all, actions and results that garnered admiration needed to be replicated, otherwise, all too soon, the admiration would turn into ridicule. One Victor could be a fluke, but two? There would be no questioning her capabilities.

     Yes, there had to be more Victors to follow in the Wicked Wolfe's wake.

     With each passing second, the flicker of irritation threatened to shift into something uglier, but it dissipated quickly when the sleek silver vehicle finally glided to a smooth stop in front of her. Penelope smoothed the front of her shimmering gown, forcing herself to maintain composure as she entered into the car without a word.

     Her silence would speak volumes, she was sure.

     It was less a matter of her impatience and more an acknowledgement of her dissatisfaction. This driver had held up not only her schedule but also the carefully orchestrated timetable of the President himself.

     President Snow.

     Already, a weight settled in her stomach, the unease fluttering inside like caged butterflies. She had only had the honor of meeting their great President twice—once when she had been appointed as District 14's Escort, and again, to watch as Scarlet was congratulated for her Victory and officially bestowed her title of Victor.

     Each encounter had been a blend of awe and fear, and as she anticipated the upcoming meeting, the latter emotion loomed larger before. The plush interior of the car did little to quell her growing tension.

     The drive through the Capitol's opulent streets felt excruciatingly long. Outside the window, the perfectly paved sidewalks greeted her eyes, and sleek buildings passed in smooth succession. Vibrant colors of every shape and size fluttered about the sidewalks, their harmonious laughter filling the air as they tittered over the latest news. Penelope longed to be among them, eager to discuss the latest interview of Caesar and that mysterious new Head Gamemaker, Severus Vale.

     Alas, the simple times of her youth spent in idle street meandering had since passed; it simply was not an appropriate activity for someone of her status and importance in the upcoming Hunger Games.

     As the car glided closer toward its destination, Penelope adjusted her posture, reminding herself of her worth, her superiority over so many, even in the Capitol. She was a prominent figure in this grand Capitol. Her role as an Escort helped to keep Panem glued together—under the direction of their president, that was.

     After all, everything had its place. And only those at the top could see everything down below.

     Efficiency, grace, and order.

     She took a steadying breath, preparing herself for the meeting that lay ahead. Whatever happened, she would navigate this meeting with the poise expected of her. After all, she was a District Escort, appearances were everything, and maintaining her status was paramount. She would meet any demands and rise to any challenges.

     Penelope Bright would not fail. Not her Capitol, not her president, and certainly, not herself.

***

     As the car glided to a halt in front of the President's mansion, Penelope felt the weight of its imposing presence. The knot in her stomach tightened. The mansion loomed ahead, its white marble façade gleaming in the soft Capitol lights, its intricate gold filigree designed to catch the eye as it framed the tall arched windows.

     The entrance was flanked by lush gardens, where perfectly manicured roses, deep crimson in color—stood in sharp contrast against the immaculate greenery. Each flower seemed to whisper secrets of the Capitol's ruthless power, echoing the very essence of President Snow himself.

      Penelope was not a fool; she knew that there were truths woven into the whispers, but all power was kept through control. Order, was paramount to success. And President Snow had proven that he was very capable of keeping Panem united and strong, and the Capitol flourishing.

     Who was she to question his methods? She did so love basking in the rewards of his efforts.

     Still, she took a moment to gather herself. Anticipation welling and doubts seeped in. She had only ever tried to serve Panem, and she was determined not to fail...but what if she had already failed? Scarlet Wolfe had brought her nothing but grief, both as a tribute and as a Victor throughout the Victory Tour—what if she was to be reprimanded for Scarlet's actions?

     You're thinking too much, Penelope. She scolded herself lightly. First go in and find out what's happening—then find a solution to the problem—that is what you're good at.

     Taking a deep breath, Penelope stepped out of the vehicle, her heels clicking against the polished stone driveway. The air felt heavier here, thick with a mixture of floral scents and the unmistakable chill of absolute power. Penelope adjusted her posture, reminding herself that she belonged in this world—that she was a part of this upper class, yet a shiver ran down her spine as she approached the grand double doors.

     Inside, the entryway was a marvel to behold. Matte white colors, accentuated by gold, created a beauty tinged with nerve-wracking fear—Penelope was afraid to breath—much less walk in a place as magnificent as this—for fear of marring its cold perfection.

     Crystal chandeliers hung like frozen waterfalls from the ceiling, their prisms casting a myriad of colors onto the marble flooring below. Penelope's gaze flickered to the limited, but lavish décor—each detail meticulously curated to portray the wealth and power of their greatest president.

     She had been there once before, but this time felt different. There was no fanfare, no subtle congratulations for her role in guiding District 14's first Victor. No light conversations about the next Hunger Games, or quiet gossip about those that had performed less than optimally.

     It was all very hushed, heavy, the air brimming with unspoken tensions, and as she made her way deeper into the mansion, she was met by the silent gaze of Peacekeepers stationed strategically throughout the hall. It was intimidating to stand in their presence. Penelope was mostly used to seeing them in the Districts, but even in the Capitol—order needed to be maintained. The Peacekeepers ensured that the President's laws were followed.

     Penelope felt their eyes on her, a subtle reminder of the scrutiny even she was under. Every step felt weighted, every breath measured, as she navigated the expansive estate.

     Their presences—though necessary—was a sudden and sharp reminder of her purpose in being here—though that purpose remained frustratingly vague. District 14.

     Their upcoming tributes? Their newest Victor? Both?

     The Wicked Wolfe was the Capitol's newest beloved, yet she was Penelope's biggest headache. It would only be fitting that she would be the cause of this anxiety inducing meeting.

     A Peacekeeper gestured for her to enter a room bathed in warm sunlight. After the barest trace of hesitancy, she stepped inside, the doors closing behind her with a soft click, sealing her into the room. The scent of roses was even more pronounced in there, almost suffocating in its sweetness.

     President Snow sat behind a massive mahogany desk; his sharp features illuminated by the shadows caused by the bright light pouring in from the massive windows behind him. Though his stature was thin and frail, with skin as pale as bone, his presence was both commanding and chilling. Penelope felt the weight of his gaze as he looked up from the papers before him, reminded of the power he wielded. With just one word, her life could be stripped of her.

     She noticed the subtle movements of his fingers, brushing a collection of delicate rose petals—his signature flower—as she waited to be addressed.

     "Miss Bright," he said, his voice smooth as silk, yet something in his eyes made her stomach churn uneasily. He did not rise, nor did he offer her a seat immediately, making her stand under his unnerving eyes. "You've done well, of course, guiding District 14's first Victor to the crown. That was no small feat."

     Penelope bowed her head slightly, the praise swelling her chest, though her heart thudded with a lingered unease. "Thank you, sir," She replied, her tone steady and respectful. She forced herself to meet his gaze, masking her apprehension with the practiced poise expected of someone in her position. "It's been my lifelong dream to serve Panem this way. I'm very proud to have finally brough a Victor to District 14."

     President Snow's smile was as faint as ever, a mere shadow across his bulbous lips. "Yes." He agreed, but the pit in her stomach only grew. "You should be proud." He leaned forward in his chair just slightly, and she fought the urge to back up. "But pride, Miss Bright, comes with responsibility, does it not?"

     She nodded, her throat tightening. "Of course, President Snow."

     Snow waved a hand, finally gesturing for her to sit. She did so, her back rigid as she lowered herself into the plush chair opposite him. His eyes remained fixed on her, unblinking, appraising. The roses on the desk seemed to crowd the space between them, as if Snow's reach extended even through the floral arrangements.

     "You know why I've asked you here, do you not?" His tone was polite, conversational even, but it carried the weight of undefined undertones. She needed to tread lightly.

     Penelope swallowed, her silken-covered fingers lacing together in her lap. "To discuss District 14." She said quietly. "Sir, if I may ask, have I done something wrong?"

     President Snow's smile widened, but it was no more reassuring than the words that followed. "We'll get to that in a moment, Miss Bright."

     She swallowed, this time loud enough that it echoed through the otherwise quiet room.

     "I've invited you here to discuss the upcoming tributes from District 14, but also...to discuss the last tribute from District 14."

     Penelope stiffened, her lips pressing into a thin line. Scarlet Wolfe. She could hardly think of that girl without a flash of irritation. Of course, it would be because of her that Penelope's flawless performance was about to be tarnished.

     Yes, she had brought glory to District 14 by becoming its first Victor, but the way she had done it—the audacity, the rebellion simmering just beneath the surface, flaring at the slightest irritation, the way that she had strutted around like she was untouchable—had been utterly infuriating.

     "Scarlet Wolfe is a...complicated case," Penelope said carefully, trying to keep her true feelings from bleeding into her assessment. "But you see, we did come to an understanding, finally, and she is on board to being a mentor, committed to getting more Victors home to District 14. If she weren't so unpredictable, I'd not be so worried about the future..."

     "Unpredictable," President Snow echoed softly, his voice dripping with amusement that was nowhere to be found on his pale face. "Yes, she is that. And yet...the Capitol has taken quite a liking to her, haven't they?"

     Penelope's jaw clenched tightly for a moment. The Capitol feared her. But they did also love her. Because she was a spectacle—because she was everything a Victor should not be. Wicked, dangerous, and far too bold for her own good. But none of that seemed to matter to most in the Capitol. They loved her because she played to the darkest parts of their desires—saying and doing things they never dared to dream of.

     "Indeed," she said, her voice tight. "I worry that she may overstep her boundaries—if she hasn't already."

     President Snow's fingers pressed against one another as he leaned forward onto his desk, his eyes never leaving her face. "Precisely, Miss Bright. There is a boundary that she cannot cross. And that is where you come in."

     "Sir?"

     "Scarlet Wolfe has a role to play," Snow continued, his tone calm and almost soothing—if not for the hardness in his eyes. "The Wicked Wolfe, they call her, a truly fitting name for the child. The Capitol loves her ruthlessness; her defiance in the face of doubt, past Victors, and to the other Districts who have condemned her...But defiance is only tolerable when it amuses the masses; When. It. Amuses. Not compels; you understand?" He let the words hang in the air, their weight settling heavily on Penelope's shoulders.

     She nodded quickly, though her mind was still spinning with his words. "Of course, sir. I'll make sure that she remembers her place."

     President Snow's gaze sharpened, and Penelope shrank back into the plush chair she sat on. "That's good, but remember, it's not just Scarlet Wolfe that concerns you. The new tributes from District 14 will be selected soon, and they must not follow in her footsteps. There is a difference between inspiring fear and hope, and inspiring defiance. It is your responsibility, Miss Bright, to ensure that they understand the distinction, and their District is not led astray. They can hope for another Victor, but they must not become defiant of the system that has held us together for all this time."

     Penelope's stomach twisted. She had no love for Scarlet, and the thought of mentoring another pair of tributes who might follow in her rebellious footsteps filled her with dread. But President Snow's command was clear. If that was what she was given, she had to keep them in line, no matter what it took.

     "Scarlet may have captured the Capitol's attention," she said, her voice firm, "but I won't let the new tributes think that they can act like her. I'll make sure they know their place."

     President Snow leaned back in his chair, watching her closely. "See that you do. And as for Scarlet, when she returns to the Capitol, she must continue to be the Wicked Wolfe... but only within the confines of her role. She is not to defy Panem, Miss Bright. Her defiance will not be tolerated any longer. I will show no more lenience."

     Penelope nodded again, though her heart hammered in her chest. "I understand."

     President Snow's smile softened into something that was almost kind, but his eyes remained cold, piercing. "I trust you won't disappoint me. After all, failure has consequences."

     The veiled threat hung in the air, chilling Penelope to her core. She had seen what happened to those who failed President Snow. She had no intention of becoming one of them.

     "I won't fail you," she promised, her voice steady despite the fear clawing at her throat.

     His smile widened just enough to show his perfect white teeth. "Good. Now, enjoy the preparations for the upcoming Hunger Games, Miss Bright. And remember... I'll be watching very closely."

     She stood, her legs feeling weak beneath her as she bowed her head in respect. As she left the room, her mind raced. She had always been proud of her role as an Escort, proud to serve the Capitol and guide her tributes. But this task, keeping Scarlet in line and ensuring that the new tributes didn't follow in her footsteps, felt more daunting than anything she had ever faced.

     And behind it all, the cold, unrelenting gaze of President Snow followed her, a constant reminder of the consequences of failure.

     As Penelope stepped out into the glittering streets of the Capitol once more, she forced herself to breathe. She would not fail. She couldn't afford to.

     She would ensure her future role as District 14's Escort, for the sake of Panem—but more so, for the sake of herself. She had worked too hard and too long to fall now. No one—not even the Wicked Wolfe herself—would be the cause of her downfall.

-------------

Personally, I still don't like her. 

Just...throwing that out there...

I think that Penelope is okay with the treatment of the Districts as long as it means her own lifestyle can be maintained. To me,  she fully embraces the cruelty of the Hunger Games and uses the event to boost her own status and position among her peers.

To me, her only redeeming quality, is that she wants one of her tributes to win, which means she will do her best to accomplish that. 

Kindly, VOTE, and comment!

Take Care and Stay Safe! ~CANGEL