Without a Reaping

Chapter 1

Every year when a person turns 18 one male and female are chosen to marry and are taken to the Capitol.

My name is Katniss Everdeen. I am 18 years old. In 5 minutes I may be married to someone I don't want to and engulfed in riches or wait till I'm 21 and get to pick.

Gale and me always used to talk about getting married. I told him I didn't want to be married and that I didn't want to have children. He told me I would be killed if I didn't. That is true. I would rather be dead. Hell with me I probably should be dead. I break the rules. Cross the fence. I do this so my mother and Prim doesn't starve. Prim is 13, one day she'll be in my position.

"You look very pretty," my mom tells me.

I roll my eyes.

"I wish I looked like you,"

Prim says when she comes up to me.

"Oh no little duck, I wish I looked like you," I tell her and smile.

Before she says anything the horns go off.

Our family leaves quietly.
We make our way down to the town square.

Most of the people ware gray dresses and shirts. We have no money for nice things let alone food.

When the Ceremony starts, Haymitch the drunk stumbles on stage along with the mayor Undersee, and Effie Trinket.

She announces that it is time to begin, and plays a video. The video explains why we do this. Once long ago people rebelled in the district. This caused the bombing of district 13. And for two people to be brought together. This shows that we all stand together as one.
After the video she starts with the two bowls. First the girls. Then the boys.
She reaches her hand in and pulls out the price of paper.

"Katniss Everdeen," she says, "where are you dear, come on up don't be shy."

Everybody clears a path way. I knew it would be me. I just knew it. I never wanted this. Why couldn't I starved to death or shot myself with an arrow. I make my way up to the stage. I can see Prim and mom. Prim has tears on her face, mom just stands there with a blake expression. I would expect that.

"Peeta Mellark," Effie calls out. I hadn't even realized that she was pulling another name.

Wait Peeta Mellark!

This can't be happening anyone but him!

Everyone clears out around him. He has a shocked expression. Guess he thought about marring he girlfriend.

He made his way to the stage.

And Effie started the marriage ritual.

"So today is the day were we bring two 18 year olds to be married. We all know that there is only one underage marriage. After this marriage you all will wait till you are 21. Then you will have a year to marry if not you will be a single. If you are a single you are not permitted to have any sexual relationships. If you are caught having sexual relationships you will be plead guilty and sentenced," she said, "now let's start the ceremony. Peeta and Katniss you have been chosen. Here is the rings. You may either kiss or shake hands the complete." Effie concluded.
We looked at each other and shaked hands.

I'm am officially married.