THE BALLAD REBORN | Hunger Games

FIVE

As I stepped into the dressing room, my heart raced with a mixture of excitement and nerves. The time had come for the tributes' interview, a crucial moment that could determine how I was perceived by the Capitol and the viewers. Tigris greeted me with a warm smile.

"Cordelia, darling, you're looking positively radiant today," Tigris exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I have just the perfect dress for you, my dear."

I returned Tigris' smile, feeling a surge of gratitude for her expertise. She had been my constant companion during my time in the Capitol, guiding me through the intricacies of fashion and helping me navigate this high-stakes world. Tigris had become more than just a stylist; she was a trusted friend.

As Tigris rummaged through the racks of exquisite dresses, my eyes widened at the sight of the stunning baby blue feathered creation she pulled out. It was unlike anything I had ever seen, delicate and ethereal.

"Tigris, this dress is absolutely breathtaking," I breathed, my voice filled with awe. "But will it make a statement?"

Tigris chuckled softly, her expert hands gliding over the feathered fabric as she began to work her magic. "Oh, my dear Cordelia, this dress will do more than make a statement. It will capture the attention of everyone in the Capitol and beyond. Trust me, you'll be the talk of the night."

As Tigris skillfully adjusted the dress to fit my figure, she continued, her voice filled with confidence. "This dress represents your strength and resilience. The feathers symbolize your ability to rise above any challenge, to soar higher than anyone expects. You're not just a tribute, my dear. You're a force to be reckoned with."

Her words resonated deep within me, reminding me of the determination that had brought me this far. Tigris had an incredible talent for capturing the essence of a person through her designs, and this dress was no exception.

Once she finished the final adjustments, Tigris stood back and admired her creation, a satisfied grin spreading across her face. "There, my dear Cordelia. Now you're ready to shine on that stage. Remember, be confident, be yourself"

As I made my way towards the line of nervous tributes waiting for their turn to be interviewed, my mind was still filled with Tigris' words of encouragement and the confidence her dress had instilled in me. However, I couldn't ignore the anxious flutter in my stomach as I approached Haymitch.

Haymitch, ever the gruff and seasoned veteran, greeted me with a half-smile and a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. "Cordelia, my dear, the time has come for you to work your magic. Remember, this is more than just an interview. It's a chance to win the hearts of the Capitol citizens, to make them want to see you succeed."

His words struck a chord within me, and I nodded, eager to hear his advice. "How do I do that, Haymitch? How do I make them fall in love with me?"

Haymitch leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a low, confidential tone. "It's all about making a connection. Yes, you're beautiful, but there are plenty of beautiful faces in the arena. You need to show them that you're more than just a pretty face. Share your story, your dreams, your struggles. Let them see the fire in your eyes, the determination in your voice."

I listened intently, the weight of his words sinking in. Haymitch had survived the Games himself, and his experience held invaluable wisdom. He continued, his tone firm yet compassionate.

"Make them understand why they should want to sponsor you. Give them a reason to believe in you. Show them that you're not just a tribute, but a force to be reckoned with. Highlight your strengths, your skills, and let them see the passion burning within you. People love a good underdog story, Cordelia. Give them that story, and make them root for you."