The Hunger Games

Chapter Twenty

The two days passed quickly. I was released fairly early. I also had a visit from President Snow. I was instructed to apologize for my actions at the end of the games and claim that I was out of my head. That I just had a mental break down and I honestly didn't know what I was doing. I did tell him that is what happened and he smiled and told me he understood. He said that I reminded him of his granddaughter and that if she would have had someone close pass while she was there she probably react the same way. I don't know why he used that as an example, I guess him appear more human to me. Maybe convince me he wasn't a bad person even though he mad 24 kids fight to the death? I couldn't tell you. I stared at myself in the body mirror. Celine was pinning the dress I wore. It wasn't dark like the other ones I wore. I also wasn't covered in pounds of make up. I had light eyeliner, mascara with a gold shadow. My lips had a gloss placed over them and a light powdering of concealer was done. It was a lot better then the mask they put me in for the parade so I was happy. The dress was similar shade of blue as my reaping dress. It was the color of the ocean and had little stitching of gold. It was knee length and had off the shoulder straps that made me appear more mature then what I was. Celine stood behind me, finishing the last of my fish tail braid. She pulled a few strands out to allow them to frame around me face.

"There, now you look like the girl you should."

I smiled and surprised her by hugging her.

"Thank you."

She relaxed and hugged me back making me smile. The door opened and Ebinora poked her head in with a smile.

"It is almost time Kitty."

I nodded and pulled away from the hug.

"Ok, be yourself, no need to hide that charming personality of yours. You are a victor now."

I smiled and she led me to the door. I walked to the same place where I stood right before the games. I looked around, smiling at the faint memories of joking around with Borris and teasing Thia and Egger before they went on stage. Celine put a hand on my back guiding me back to the small room we all waited in before entering the stage.

"You will be find, Kit. Just take a deep breath. Also remember..."

She didn't have to finish and I nodded letting her know I understood. Unlike last time Caesar wasn't mumbled through the doors. The audience wasn't nearly as loud. I heard the introduction to the show play and the cheer of the crowd. Well that explains a lot.

Hello! Hello! These past 5 days 24 tributes fought for 3 only for one to survive. The other 2 days she fought for her life and is now healthy thanks to the metical team of the capital. Isn't that amazing folks!"

A rush of cheers broke out.

"Why don't we bring her out!? I present the Victor of the 66th Hunger Games!"

The doors opened and the blinding light caused me to squint against it. The applause was deafening. I approached Caesar with a smile.

"My, my, well doesn't our little warrior look beautiful!"

The crowd burst out in applause. I mouthed thank you to them and allowed Caesar to guide me over to the two cushioned seat.

"Your games. Were brutal to the say the least. You took an approach that was..."

"Oh Cesar you don't have to hide it, using a shovel as a weapon is a bit unusual."

The crowd laughed along with Caesar.

"My apologies, I just didn't know how to word it."

I laughed and smiled back at him.

"I wouldn't know how to word it either Caesar, I am still processing my weapon choice too."