a Message filled with regret

Chapter 8: the Interview

The Capitol's grand stage is awash in bright lights and extravagant décor. The audience, a sea of excited Capitol citizens, buzzes with anticipation. Caesar Flickerman, the charismatic and flamboyant host, stands ready to introduce the tributes. His smile is as bright as his sequined suit, and his energy is infectious. 

I feel sick to my stomach waiting for my turn, everything I try to do is scaring me further, I've never done something like this, as my mentor says, they know my strengths, and my weaknesses, and there is nothing to hide anymore, yet I'm scared. when it was finally my turn my stomach was a wreak, I felt like throwing up all over this nice little jumpsuit I was dressed in. following on the theme of electricity that I was dressed in for my opening parade. 

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 74th Annual Hunger Games Tribute Interviews! We meet the brave young men and women who will compete for glory in the arena tonight. Let's give a warm Capitol welcome to our next tribute, from District 5, Rowell Castor!"

The crowd erupts into applause as I steps onto the stage. I am is wearing a tight fitted dark blue jump suit with a cutting low neck line, exposing all of my chest. I takes a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves, and approaches Caesar.

Ceaser states, in his eccentric voice like normal "Rowell, you look absolutely stunning tonight! The outfit is perfect for you."

 "Thank you, Caesar. My stylist did an amazing job." the words feel like lies on my tounge, i look ridiculous, like a capital citizen

 District 5, the powerhouse of Panem, known for its electricity and technological innovations. How has growing up around all that energy influenced you?"

"It's taught me to be adaptable and think on my feet. In District 5, you learn quickly how to harness power and use it to your advantage, which I think will be a crucial skill in the arena." For once i wasn't lying, that was truth, i may have left out the part where I've trained for this, in case my name was reaped the way my sisters was, yet still. I was not lying

"That's wonderful to hear. I imagine those skills will serve you well in the arena. Now, tell us, is there someone special back home who will be cheering you on?"

I was expecting this question, hoped it would never come, yet expecting it, my mentor told me to lie, say something predictable, like yes i have a partner, or no i love someone who doesn't know i exist, yet i couldn't take it in me to do so, instead i told the truth. Even though i knew i would do everything in my power to come home, i knew Theo had to hear what i was about to say, "yes actually, my best friend, Theodore, we grew up together i love him more than life." 

"If you could say anything to Theo right now, what would it be?" I hated that he feels like he has the familiarity to call him by that name, that's my name for him.

 "I'd tell him to stay strong and brave, and that no matter what happens, I'll always be with him in spirit."

The audience applauds, some even shedding a tear at her heartfelt words. Caesar beams at Elara and leads the applause.

 "Thank you.  everyone! What a courageous young woman!"