Fluid Heart, Firey Soul (Peeta Mellark x Reader)

Chapter 8 - Allies

Peeta and I approach the knot-tying station where we are met with genuine enthusiasm from the trainer. It's clear that this corner of the room doesn't attract many tributes, making our presence a rare treat. His wide grin and excited gestures make me believe that we're the first in a long time to take an interest in this particular skill. As we settle in, he guides us through various types of knots, explaining their uses not only for trapping animals but also for ensnaring enemies. I'm incredibly proficient and by the end of his explanation, I'm able to leave another competitor dangling by one leg from a tree.

Peeta needs more guidance with the knots, his fingers fumbling over the intricate twists and turns. I scoot next to him and offer my assistance, gaining favor from the trainer and gratitude from Peeta. He gratefully thanks me with a smile. After about an hour of practicing, we have both mastered the skill and decide to move on to the next station.

Our next stop is an edible plant test. As someone from a water-based district, my knowledge of wild plants is lacking. But the girl from District 5, with her foxlike features and keen intellect, is already deeply engrossed in the task. Her fingers dance across the buttons, swiftly categorizing different plants. Her speed is impressive and I'm struggling to keep up with the botanical dance she performs.

Once she finishes, I approach her with Peeta by my side. We introduce ourselves and ask if she can help us identify at least a few plants to avoid. She tells us her name is Finch and launches into an explanation of how many plants give visual signs of their toxicity, but there are also deceptive ones that appear harmless. Finch then asks both Peeta and myself to take the test after her explanation. I score fifty percent, while Peeta scores seventy percent. Patiently, Finch goes over the plants we missed, pointing out the subtle indicators that distinguish them. Her knowledge is truly remarkable and if she could wield it like a weapon, she would surely win the Games.

I turn to face her and express my gratitude for her help. I propose the idea of teaming up, that our skills would be better used together. She returns the smile and I am relieved to have potentially found another ally who brings a different set of strengths to the table. Her fiery red hair reminds me of Bea, but it's not just the physical resemblane— Finch's intelligence and resourcefulness also mirror Bea's.

With a few people on my side, I make the decision to keep some distance for now. It's important to be discreet about these connections, avoiding any unnecessary attention or potential threats. I communicate this to Peeta, who nods in understanding.

"Don't worry," I reassure him, "We'll catch up later. It's just better if we're not seen together too much in front of the others."

"It's a shame but I get it," he says.

"I'm sorry, I don't want—"

"Hey, it's okay, honestly. You don't need to explain anything."

His reassurance puts me at ease and I am grateful for his understanding. I'm not very good at goodbyes. As he turns to leave, he surprises me with his parting words. "Oh, and just so you know, pink is definitely your color." The words catch me off guard and it takes a moment for me to realize he's referring to the flower I had woven into my hair. I reach up to touch it gently, feeling a warmth spread through my cheeks.

Alone once again, I make my way towards a fire-making station. I've always struggled to create a strong and lasting flame. The trainer offers valuable tips, guiding me through the process. After about twenty minutes, I successfully ignite a fire. I thank the instructor for his help before my attention is turned towards a group of robed figures who seem to have appeared out of thin air.

"Gamemakers," a voice startles me, and I flinch. It's Cato, his piercing blue eyes fixed on the Gamemakers who are scattered throughout the training area, scrutinizing the tributes. Some of them leisurely enjoy a lavish buffet, while the others are in the stands with a look of intense focus. My gaze falls upon one particularly focused Gamemaker who seems to be studying Peeta intently, scribbling down notes in a small notebook.