Growing up in District 12 is the worst thing that can happen to a child of Panem.
In the capitol, and the wealthy districts, children sought the aprobation of their parents. In the intermediate districts, children sought to be useful to their paren...
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Visitation days were the only reprieve in our grueling schedule. Those happened on Sundays, and although we trainees weren't allowed to leave the Academy grounds, our families could come to see us. It was a bittersweet reminder of the world beyond these walls, of lives we could barely remember or imagine.
This particular Sunday, the atmosphere in the common area was almost party-like, turns out today was a local festivity therefore non of the parents worked. Trainees reunited with their loved ones, voices mingling in laughter and tears. My friends had all gathered their families around, introducing me to their parents. Despite the vast differences in their backgrounds, each family was correct and respectful toward me. I was, after all, a Victor.
The Cardew twins, Calista and Cassius, brought their parents over first. Their father, a tall man with graying hair and an air of authority, nodded politely. Andromeda, it's a pleasure to meet you. My children speak highly of you," he said, extending his hand.
"Thank you, Mr. Cardew," I replied, shaking his hand and forcing a smile. "Your children are exceptional."
Mrs. Cardew, a refined woman with elegant features, added, "It's reassuring to know they have someone strong like you by their side. The Academy can be a harsh place."
I nodded, feeling the weight of her words. "We look out for each other. It makes things a little easier."
Next were the Phipps siblings, Ophelia and Orion. Their mother was a statuesque woman with an air of quiet authority and intelligence, her features even shaper than her kids. "Andromeda, we've heard a great deal about your determination. You've seem to be shaking things up. It's an honor to meet you," she said, her voice warm.
"The honor is mine, Mrs. Phipps," I said, grateful for their kindness. Mr. Phipps, a tall, lean man with kind blue eyes, simply nodded, offering me a reassuring smile.
Aura, introduced her parents with a flourish. Her father, a charismatic man with a charming smile, extended his hand. "Andromeda, you're a remarkable young woman. Aura has told us about your remarkable fighting abilities" he said, a hint of curiosity in his tone.
"Thank you, Mr. Monty," I replied, feeling a pang of sadness as I thought of my own family. Mrs. Monty, a petite woman with a gentle demeanor, offered me a sympathetic smile.
The conversations flowed easily, but eventually, someone asked the inevitable question.
"Andromeda, where are your parents?" Calista inquired gently. "Is it because of the distance to District 12?"
I hesitated, the familiar ache surfacing. "No," I said quietly. "They're dead."
An uncomfortable silence fell over the group, sympathy and awkwardness mingling in their eyes. Before anyone could respond, a voice called out from the doorway.
"Well, well, if it isn't our little Star."
I turned, and there stood Haymitch Abernathy. His appearance was a jarring contrast to the polished Capitol parents—disheveled and slightly tipsy, but his eyes were still sharp. "Haymitch," I said, a mix of surprise and relief washing over me. I get up quickly and hug him, his strong arms returning the gestures.
