The 53rd Hunger Games- Two Words

5.Tule's Warning

The next morning, I wake just after sunrise. I spent an uncomfortable night tossing and turning, and am possibly more exhausted than I was when I went to sleep. My fear of the Games and meeting the tributes meant sleep was impossible.

When I go to the foot of my bed to retrieve my dress, I find it isn't there. I am mildly disappointed, but find something else to wear. Most of the wealthy residents in District Eight dress like something out of the Capitol.

I'm not wealthy.

I throw on a silky blue shirt and loose black trousers. My hair is only slightly mused, so I decide to leave it.

I walk into the living car, and fin a tension in the air. Gladius, Tule and Velia are up, but there is no sign of Wade. Tule spots me, and gives me a strained smile.

"Morning, Eunia. Come have a seat."

I sit next to Gladius, and push my hair out of my face. I help myself to the food on the table, putting more on my plate than I can probably eat.

"Gladius and I were talking. The Tribute Parade is tonight, which is why I need you to make a bang," Tule says. She looks like she slept even less than I did. Black and blue bruises are under her eyes. Her scar is more prominent against her pale skin. "I'm not sure what the stylists have planned, but let them do what they want. I'm sure you'll look fabulous."

Velia closes her magazine, and rolls it. She then raps it against the table. "And don't forget!" she says, "to smile! Wave! Act like all the citizens in the Capitol are your friends."

Tule sends another strained smile her way, then rolls her eyes when she turns back to us. "The day after is training. They'll stick you in the gym with twenty-three over tributes. Each of you has to show them that you're not a meal. Save something for the Gamemakers; you'll need a high score if you want sponsors."

Both Gladius and I nod obediently. Breakfast is minor at this point. I remember it, and start eating again.

"Because it's your first day, everyone will be...on edge. Do not anger any of the tributes."

Tule says it with such firmness in her voice, I almost drop my spoon. I've never heard her speak like that.

"If you do, they'll be aching for revenge in the arena. See if you can gather a few allies. If you have allies, you're safe. For a while, at least."

Gladius and I add our agreement. Tule looks so worried, it rubs off on me. Obviously she is concerned about us making the right impressions, but she needn't be as uptight as she is about it.

Then again, she is a victor for a reason. She knows exactly how important this is.

"You won't be able to get in with the Careers," she says, "but as you saw, there are plenty of other strong tributes. Try and be civil to them. Because you can't ally with the Careers, stay away from them."

Her words are so pointed, I can't help but think that maybe one of the tributes from the Career pack gave her the scar on her face, forever marring her features.

"We'll arrive in the Capitol between ten and eleven," Velia informs us. "Be here when you first see the city; I don't want to miss the expressions on your faces!"

I restrain myself from shooting a glare laced with poison her way. She's treating us like her pets, and I hate it.  

Tule's handing out valuable advice though, so instead of storming off, I stay put.

"Where's Wade?" Gladius asks. It's the first time I've heard him speak all day. He doesn't sound angry, just stressed.

"Still sleeping," says Tule. "I wouldn't wake him."