Originals 1. Trailer Preview

**Disclaimer: I DO NOT own The Originals or The Hunger Games or its characters. Just using them and the plot in The Hunger Games for this story I had in mind. **

**77****th**** Annual Hunger Games: Trailer/Preview**

Playing: TTL Deep Shadow- The Hunger Games

Hayley Marshall (narrating): "They did this every year, something inexplicably wrong and terrifying but amusing and pleasant to them. The Capitol, the wealthy one in Panem, leading and ruling the twelve poorer districts. Because of our history with them…each year…we all must pay the price."

….

_President Snow: "It was degreed that each year, the districts of Panem shall offer their tributes, one young man and woman between the ages of 12 and 18 to be trained in the art of survival and to be prepared to fight till death. It was degreed these games would be called __**The Hunger Games.**__"_

….

Hayley Marshall (sitting in her room, eating dinner with her younger brother and sister): "Eat your food. That's the last good meal you'll get to eat for the week." (Whispers in sadness)

Jake Marshall: "I am not hungry. It's not fair! Why does this happen every year?"

Lucy Marshall (Crying): "I don't want to be picked when I am 12!"

Hayley Marshall: "It's your first year, Jake and you need to understand that they can't just pick you out of everyone in that bowl. It's okay." (Comforting him)

….

Hayley Marshall (narrating): "Our mother abandoned us when I was 12, unable to provide for us and scared of the annual reaping in which each district chose its tributes. She wanted to stop caring about us completely, hoping that if either one of us got picked and had to fight in those games, and our death would bring her less suffering. She had enough of that. Our dad abandoned us for good when Lucy was born."

…..

Mikael Mikaelson: "This year, you must do it! You're 17, boy! You ain't got more than two chances for this. Make this family proud for once, like your brother, Elijah wants to."

Niklaus Mikaelson (growling): "Elijah betrayed our district and moved to another. How is that pleasing the family?"

Mikael Mikaelson: "I have invested good money in your training when you were kids and your training has paid off. This year, no matter who is chosen, you must volunteer, as your brother will!"

…..

Effie (representative of District 12): "The time has come for us to select one courageous young man and woman for the honor of representing District 12th in the 77th Annual Hunger Games. Ladies first!"

Effie: "Hayley Marshall!"

Jake Marshall: "NOOOO!"

Effie: "Come along now, dear." (Grabs Hayley's hand) "And our male tribute shall be…"

….

Jake Marshall: "You promised you would never leave us!"

Hayley Marshall: "I won't ever leave you!"

Lucy Marshall: "Come back to us!"

Hayley Marshall (whispering with heartache, hugging Lucy): "I promise I will try."

….

Gora (District 2nd Representative): "Our male tribute…Jordan Elson!"

Niklaus Mikaelson (whispers) "No."

Mikael Mikaelson: "Do it, boy!"

Niklaus Mikaelson (steps up in the crowd): "I volunteer as tribute!"

….

Hayley Marshall: "You are supposed to be here to tell me what to do. You won this thing before! You have to tell me how to get out of this. I have a starving brother and sister to take care of!"

Kieran: "I would if you would sit down and realize what you're up against."

….

Katherine Pierce: "You got us into this. I don't care what we had in the past, Elijah. It's over now and we're in the games. You better do something so we can win!"

Elijah Mikaelson: "Agreed."

….

Rebekah Mikaelson: "Why would you listen to Father? You know he's talking rubbish."

Niklaus Mikaelson: "He is! But I just saved myself from a year of beating."

….

Kieran: "You make sure you leave people out there with a good impression of your style and I promise you that everything is going to be okay."

Hayley Marshall: "What am I facing?"

Kieran: "The tributes from Districts 1 and 2, the most dangerous, whom you never want to meet."

….

Hayley Marshall: "Give me back my sword or I swear you will be the first on my blacklist when I get in that arena!"

Niklaus Mikaelson: "Not until you tell me your name, gorgeous."

….

Kieran: "You trust no one, understand? No matter how good and nice they may seem at first, they can be the exact opposite on the inside, waiting to use your skills and intellect for their own gain. Same goes for your partner."

Hayley Marshall: "I understand."

….

Main Gamekeeper: "What I am expecting this year? Show and action! That is what everyone in Panem wants and of course, one victory, one victor, a representative of hope."

Caesar Flickerman: "Of course that is what we want! Do you think everything will be the same as it was before the second attack of the rebels in the 75th edition of our games?"

Main Gamekeeper: "What those people have done was a big mistake and that is why President Snow has chosen me this time, to make sure it doesn't happen again."

Caesar Flickerman: "It's a shame. We lost some fine victors in that edition."

Main Gamekeeper: "Like I said, this year, we get to keep everyone in complete control."

….

Kieran: "They will want revenge for everything that your fellow tributes did in the past, including Katniss Everdeen. They are looking at you as her successor who must keep her beliefs going. At this rate, your survival is that much less possible."

Hayley Marshall: "I agree with what Katniss said. I just can't afford to think like that."

….

Hayley Marshall: "What makes you different from the rest? You are all pawns of the Capitol."

Niklaus Mikaelson: "So like for District 12th tributes to judge books, meaning people by its covers."

….

Lucy Marshall: "What if she won't make it?"

Jake Marshall: "She's going to make it. She promised."

….

Main Gamekeeper: "Countdown starting…"

….

Katherine Pierce: "I am scared."

Elijah Mikaelson: "I was trained not be scared of anything."

….

Kieran: "Stay focused and you can win this."

Hayley Marshall: "Who am I kidding? I can never be like Katniss was."

….  
Mikael Mikaelson (to Niklaus): "You better make this district proud, you hear?"

….

Hayley Marshall: "You're a dick."

Niklaus Mikaelson: "I know."

….

Main Gamekeeper: "10…9…8…7…6…5…4…3…2…1…"

….

Kieran: "When you hear that canon go off, it's just you. No one else matters but you, do you understand what I'm saying?"

Hayley Marshall (nodding): "Yes."

….

*Sound of the canon*

President Snow: "Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favor!" 

**77****th**** Annual Hunger Games**

**Coming Soon!**

**Are you excited for this? Please leave me reviews and tell me what you think of this preview and your thoughts about what you think will happen.**

**So, basically, in my story, after the rebellion in the 75****th**** Hunger Games, the games still haven't ended as Katniss was supposed to do. This takes place after two years since the failure. **

**Yes, there will be some things taken out of the original Hunger Games books and movies but this is my own story and I will be doing it my way with different plots!**

**Besides the main pair, let me know what other pairs you might like because plenty of people from The Originals will be in this, not just the ones in the preview trailer. **


	2. Our History Makes Us Who We Are

**First chapter of the 77****th**** Annual Hunger Games. Are you excited for this? It's going to be a bumpy ride and I hope you will stick to this story as it will be a long one. Enjoy it my friends and leave me reviews after the first taste. Happy Hunger Games! And May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor! **

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Day Before The Reaping **

"They did this every year, something inexplicably wrong and terrifying but amusing and pleasant to them. The Capitol, the wealthy one in Panem, leading and ruling the twelve poorer districts. Because of our history with them…each year…we all must pay the price." I whispered, rubbing her chin as she looked in that store. There was almost nothing left to buy. People here believed that after the second rebellion, led by none other than our savior, Katniss Everdeen, things would end. We were wrong, just like we were wrong 77 years ago, when this competition first started for the districts of Panem. This is where we were staying. District 12, the one where food and supplies were hard to find.

"Hayley! I like this one!" My little sister, who was only 10, Lucy called out to me, staring up at me with the set of gorgeous emerald green eyes that matched mine…and our mother's. She was twirling in front of me with a second hand dress she found, a very cheap one, but to her, it looked like the most stunning dress you could ever find. It looked the same way to me. I smiled at her enthusiasm and twirled her as well. I loved Lucy with all my heart. I couldn't imagine life without her. My little brother, who was now 12, Jake came to us with ragged clothing on. He looked into his pocket for a couple of coins, but he didn't have any.

He wanted so desperately to buy something, anything that would make him feel better about himself but there was nothing. It's true that Lucy and I were closer as sister, girls and Jake felt left out sometimes. I did my best, as the one nourishing and taking care of the last part of my family, to try and make him fit in. "I have a couple left, Jake, if you want." I whispered and looked down at my also ragged clothes and pulled out of my pocket six coins and handed them to him. Jake just shook his head no. This is what I loved about Jake. He was too modest and he understood how poor our family was. He couldn't be selfish as to take those coins that could be used for food and water, instead of some toys he wanted to play with. I hugged him, sadly in return.

"I think that next week, I am going to get some more than what they are actually paying me. You can have that toy if you want then." I told him and Jake just shook his head. "No. Forget the damn toy. I just want us to stop suffering." Jake was very mature for his age, something that he picked up from our father, I was guessing because our mother didn't have it in her to ever act like a mature adult. I acted the same way as Jake. Lucy was the one who was most like our mother. Remember how I said that I was the one nourishing and taking care of our family? That was the truth and not because our mother had passed away or was too ill to do anything to provide for us. It was something else.

Our mother abandoned us when I was 12, unable to provide for us and scared of the annual reaping in which each district chose its tributes. She wanted to stop caring about us completely, hoping that if either one of us got picked and had to fight in those games, and our death would bring her less suffering. She had enough of that. Our dad abandoned us for good when Lucy was born. Yes, I was talking about the annual reaping of The Hunger Games. I had survived 4 of them until now. My name had not been extracted from that bowl and I had 3 more years of luck if I was to survive and get back to my life." Lucy got back into her regular clothes and put the dress away.

"Hayley, do we have money for this?" she asked me with that angelic face of hers. I couldn't turn her down. I was about to tell her that we would buy it, even though that would cut us loose of the food I could have bought for us tomorrow, but Jake stepped up with anger in his eyes. "You think that we should waste our money on that stupid dress of yours? It's not worth it, Lucy! We barely have money to eat. Hayley is the youngest one working in a coalmine and you think as to be so selfish as to spend her good money on that dress?" Jake was being mean to Lucy, as he always has and I was the one who had to maintain them. "Jake, stop it!" I told him and he looked at me with an apology written across his face.

"But you know it's true, Hayley. We have to work even harder now." I nodded and pulled him in a hug. What Jake had said about me was true. I was the youngest coalminer in District 12. Before the rebellion, women weren't allowed to work at all as coalminers. They left that to the strongest men and children under 18 weren't allowed to work at all, but that also changed 2 years ago. I was put to work as punishment for the second rebellion to which I had participated and I was glad. Since our mother abandoned us, without money, food or shelter and just disappeared, I had to make my own living, not just for me but for Jake and Lucy too.

We had been on our own for 4 years. I was getting worried about our mother, who I believed had moved to another district, but that was something illegal to do right now. Before, it was okay, but since the Third Quarter Quell of The Hunger Games, a lot of things were changed by President Snow and the Capitol.

Lucy was given a hug by me too when we suddenly heard the call of the manager of the store. "If you are not going to buy anything, get out! No one wants you here!" he yelled out. People have stopped being as nice as they were years ago. Everyone was scared, even more hungry and frightened as The Hunger Games continued. I gave that man a death glare as he continued looking at me with hate. "Go on, out! And if you continue behaving like that, maybe you'll not be allowed to come into this store ever again!" he was yelling as Jake turned his palms into fists and was ready to give that man a good punch. I pulled him away from that man and out of the store before he could strike him. Jake may be young, but people should know better than to mess with him when he was angry. "Let's go now, Lucy. Come on!" I told her and kept her to my side as she was longing for that pretty dress. Her blonde hair was tied to her back with a white bow. Her hair was our father's. Our mother was brunette and Jake and I inherited it.

It was in Mom's best interest to teach us a couple of things and she has taught us a lot, but not as much as we needed. We needed more than just her words of support. We needed serious help. We got to know the father who left us when Lucy was born from our mother who told us great stories about Jack Marshall. He met Annabelle Dawson at a young age and the two fell in love, got married and had us three. I kept thinking how lucky my parents had been to have been kept away from The Hunger Games and not have been selected those years when they were young. My mother used to tell me it was petrifying to wait for the announcement. She told me that your heart stops and starts beating again when they finally call out a name. She told me of people that were selected and had almost forgotten their names in shock.

_"You must always be prepared for what's to come. No matter what happens, you have to face the probability that you can be selected as one of your district's tributes for The Hunger Games." _Annabelle used to tell me when I was little and she was right. Those days when I sat in the crowd after they took a small sample of my blood, by pricking my finger, thinking that any second, they could say my name. And my life would pretty much be over because if you are chosen, you know for sure that you are never going to see your family again, whether you win or you die in the arena. "Hayley." I snapped out of my thoughts as I looked down at Lucy who was calling me. "Yes?" I said to her and she wrapped her arms around me. "What do we have for dinner tonight?" she asked and Jake rolled his eyes at her question. It couldn't have been much and it hated me to say it. "Bread, Luce. Just loafs of breed." I said with tears in my eyes.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Day Before The Reaping**

"Rebekah, what's for dinner? I'm starving!" I exclaimed as soon as I came into my house after the last day of training for me. I put down my equipment and rubbed my fingers together. "Nik, are you home?" Rebekah called out to me from the kitchen. "No, you don't say!" I exclaimed back, sarcastically. "Shut up and clean yourself up before dinner. You know that Father doesn't like it when you reek of mud and sweat!" I rolled my eyes at her proposal but somehow knew that she was looking out for my best interest.

There were a lot of us in the family. Mikael Mikaelson was my father, a great warrior for our district and won The Hunger Games when he was 18. He told me how he slaughtered all of them. But Rebekah and I both knew that year that my father won was the year that the poorest selections were made. Most of the tributes were 12 and 13, while my father was always ruthless and cunning, he was able to slaughter all of them and live until the end. He kept his crown in his room that he was given by the Capitol as a reminder of how proud he has made this family. He met Esther, my mother, after he won and they got married somehow. That was when our family began to grow. Elijah, my 18 year old brother was born first, I was born second, 17 now while Kol and Rebekah are twins, both 16. Esther and Mikael never got along and the time had come when Esther chose to leave District 2 and move to District 1, who was just as rich as District 2, our home, but at least she was away from Father. We barely spoke since then. She took Elijah and Kol with her while Rebekah and I remained with Mikael here.

I washed my hands and my face with frustration. "Might as well take a whole bloody shower." I mumbled and looked at my bows and arrows, as well as the swords that Father bought for my training. Mikael had pretty much disowned Elijah and Kol after they left with Mother and now, he was looking onto me and Rebekah to get in The Hunger Games and win the bloody thing, to prove that our district is rich for a reason, it has the most powerful people, as well as District 1, in comparison to other districts. I saw the state in which other districts were and I was thankful for being here, with a father that even though was strict, he provided a lot for us.

"Dinner's ready!" Rebekah called out from the kitchen and she finally told me what I had been asking for all along. "If anyone wants to know what we're having, it's steak and French fries, and if anyone is really hungry, spaghetti with fruits and chocolate muffins for desert!" Rebekah explained and I knew was most likely talking to me. I cared for Rebekah a lot, the one I cared for the most in my family and I knew that the feeling was mutual. Our father, after all the beatings he gave me as a kid, teaching me how to "be a man" in his opinion, I could never really learn to love but to accept. Our mother was just as strict, but at least she didn't like to beat up her children and sometimes I wished, she would have taken me with her to District 1, but I couldn't leave Rebekah with Mikael. Now, even if I wanted to switch districts, I couldn't. No one was allowed anymore thanks to that rebellion in the 75th Hunger Games.

I heard a growl and a door slam and I knew that Father was out of his room and gone to the kitchen. I had to hurry up. He also didn't like when I was late for dinner. "Niklaus!" I heard him call out and I finally, pulled some regular clothes on and met my sister and my father in the kitchen. We all sat down, said grace and then we started eating all of the delicious food on the table. I ate like an animal as Rebekah giggled and ate her own food seriously. Mikael was looking at me out of the corner of his eye as I ate. "You've grown quite an appetite. I suppose that training is really paying off, doesn't it? You know what you must do tomorrow at the annual reaping, Niklaus." I stopped eating as soon as he said that. Yes, I had been on a training program, an illegal training program for The Hunger Games ever since I was born, along with my brothers and my sister. Mikael paid all these years for us to be fully trained. "Father, I don't want to volunteer this year."

"And why the hell not. I'll wait for next year when I'm 18, just like you." "Oh no you're not! Elijah is going to volunteer this year at the reaping for District 1 and I want you to show him and your mother up. There is no way that I am waiting until next year for you to compete. You are competing this year against your brother and that is final!" There were a couple more moments when I heard him again. "This year, you must do it! You're 17, boy! You ain't got more than two chances for this. Make this family proud for once, like your brother, Elijah wants to." "Elijah betrayed our district and moved to another. How is that pleasing the family?" I argued with him. "I have invested good money in your training when you were kids and your training has paid off. This year, no matter who is chosen, you must volunteer, as your brother will!" Mikael demanded. It was best as to not cross him.

I rolled my eyes. It wasn't like I was scared or anything. I was just hoping that I would get a little more time to myself before I enter the arena to make the Mikaelson name proud. Mikael had reached the Capitol and had been working for them for a long time, ever since he won The Hunger Games and that's how we were so rich; we didn't know what to do with all the money, except invest it in our training to continue the generation of victors. I smirked as I thought about me going out there and showing Elijah up, slaughtering anyone who got in my way. I wasn't the sentimental kind of guy, I never was so I really didn't care for Elijah that much as to not murder him out there. For Rebekah though, I did care a lot and I didn't want her to be forced to volunteer as I was, or even worse, picked. I knew she was a good fighter but I didn't think that as a girl she would have much chances of winning. I never mentioned that in front of her because I knew how mad she would turn out to be.

"Father, about me…" Rebekah began but Mikael cut her off as he ate. "You keep training there, Rebekah. I will not ask you to volunteer this year. I want you to become your strongest to face your brother Kol in the arena when the time is right." he told her and Rebekah gulped. Even though I was her closest sibling, there was something about twins that I could never really understand, they had a special bond and I didn't think Rebekah would ever feel comfortable with cutting Kol down with her sword. But right now, she was more worried about something else. I could see it in her eyes. "Father, why if I get picked?" Mikael just shrugged. "That's too bad; you would have had 2 more years of training." "But it wouldn't be my fault!" she snapped and Mikael eyed her. "I never said that. Calm down and eat your meal, Rebekah!" I looked at the two of them and thought about defending Rebekah, but it was best to stay quiet.

Rebekah was sitting in the balcony, after dinner. We were up high and our district had amazing colors and lights. We are absolutely rich and there was no one that could do anything about that. That is why I loved my life, because I was one of the lucky ones. The same couldn't be said about Rebekah who was obsessed with the poorest districts 10, 11 and 12. "Sometimes I feel like we should be helping them. It is not their fault they're poor." she whispered and I rolled my eyes. "Yes, it is. We worked hard to achieve what we have. They didn't do a God damn thing and chose to create rebellions." I groaned when I thought about the last two years and what had become of this nation. "That girl on fire destroyed it all."

I used to be telling myself and I knew District 12 to be a bad influence on others. Whoever their tributes were this year, if I were to volunteer, I sure as hell would mark them as first to go down on my list to show that Girl on Fire up that her "successors" aren't the greatest warriors you can meet. Our district had produced the greatest warriors and I was going to avenge the two tributes that died on the 74th year she participated. I was going to show them all what a great tribute I was going to be!

"Go to sleep, Rebekah!" Mikael called out from the living room as he watched the news on the Hunger Games reaping that would be the next day. "Do you think I can sleep? Just the thought of that witch picking my name from the bowl makes me shiver. Aren't you the least bit nervous?" Rebekah asked me with jealousy as she saw that it didn't affect me half as much as it affected her. "No. I am supposed to volunteer tomorrow anyway, remember? Papa's orders." I told her and got to my room without another word but then I heard my father from the other room, "Niklaus, come here! I need to speak to you." I groaned as I recalled that Father was going to give me another one of his speeches about how he won The Hunger Games. "It's not an option, boy! Get over here right now!" I got out of the room as fast as I could.

He was sitting on the couch and watching the reaping from the year he had won The Hunger Games. He was grinning like a maniac as the people of Panem saw him as their victor. That was very impressive. I wanted that just as much as anyone from this district while other poorer districts, I knew were trying to avoid competing in these games. "I just wanted you to see what you are in for once you won The Hunger Games. You are not making your name proud but your district proud as well. You will share all the fame and riches with your family as I have. You will have a wife and money and more heirs to produce." "What does this have to do with getting a wife, Father?" "Once you win, you become the one any woman wants, therefore gives you the chance to pick the best one to produce you Mikaelson heirs." He smirked. "Yeah, sure. Look at you and Mom." I said and I immediately regretted having said it. "To bed at once, boy! You need to be well rested for tomorrow!" Mikael ordered and I did what he said.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**At Dinner Before Reaping**

I could barely munch on the own bread that I had managed to get from the store with the money we had. We shared it between us as brothers and ate it piece by piece. "I don't know what you did this time, Hayley, but this is very good." Jake complimented and I shrugged. "I got a pretty good deal at that bakery. The owner knows me and I think he has started to take a liking to me. I just used that to my advantage." I told him and Lucy smiled. "You are very beautiful, Hayley." she said and I smiled back at her. "You are the most beautiful, Luce, don't forget that." We ate in silence after that and little did I know that The Hunger Games was in everyone's minds right now. The Hunger Games. What would happen tomorrow? It would be Jake's first reaping. I would have to let him know on what to do and what he shouldn't be doing while there. Each one's action reflects the district since the new laws were enforced two years ago. People from the Capitol who were the ones "feeding" us had made the rules stricter since the 75th Annual Hunger Games. Everything wrong one did, reflected badly on the rest of us.

Jake had suddenly stopped eating the loaf of bread that belonged to him and stared at it in anger. Lucy stopped eating her loaf of bread too and looked over at him, wondering what was wrong with him. I thought that he was about to complain about how little we had to put on the table, but I knew that Jake was too generous for that kind of stuff and he was too selfless and understanding, for a boy his own ago. He wouldn't, but still, he looked at the loaf of bread like it was the devil himself. It got me worried. "Eat your food. That's the last good meal you'll get to eat for the week." I let him know.

"I am not hungry. It's not fair! Why does this happen every year?" he responded and suddenly, I knew what he was talking about. Just then, I heard Lucy drop her loaf of bread and cry out "I don't want to be picked when I am 12!" I put my hand on Jake's and he looked at me in the eyes. "We're going to be fine, Jake. We are going to get through this together. Just remember that this being your first year, your name is only put in there once. The chances of you getting picked are slim to none, you have nothing to worry about. I promise that you don't. They're not going to pick you, okay?"

Jake finally settled down and we continued eating. Then, I started thinking about myself. I knew how many times my name would be put in that bowl, after the many things I have managed to steal for my brother and sister to eat, the things I had stolen from the Capitol and I was entered more than once in that bowl. I guess that odds aren't exactly in my favor but they will be for Jake, I knew it. I got up from the table and went to wash up, putting on a long and white shirt and getting under the covers as Jake and Lucy got under theirs. Neither one of us could sleep. "Hayley." Lucy murmured and I shushed her. "Let's just go to sleep, guys. I don't want anyone to continue thinking about tomorrow. Everything is going to be fine. I will make everything fine, I promise."

I heard them move in their beds and then heard Jake's voice. "Hayley?" "Yes." I whispered. "You're the greatest big sister in the world. I never want to lose you." I smiled at that comment. "And you're the best smaller brother one could ever have. We won't lose each other. We'll always be together. All three of us." I held deeply onto that hope.

**A/N: That's it for now, folks. Leave me reviews and tell me how you liked the first chapter. I am dying to know to be honest. This is the first time I have done this kind of fanfiction, and I love The Hunger Games very much which is why I can't resist. So, who do you think will be chosen as tributes from District 12 and from District 2? **


	3. The Selection

**Last chapter, we got to know a little bit more about the main characters of this story. Klaus is the type of guy from District 2 who is extremely rich, especially since his father won the Hunger Games once and has spent all his fortune on getting his children trained since they were very little to participate on their own and win The Hunger Games. Hayley is a poor girl from District 12, with no money for anything else other than some food, no parents but at least she has a job even if she's only 16, so she can take care of her brother, Jake and sister, Lucy. Different lives and different objectives. Now it is time to see what the future holds for them as the annual selection of the tributes has come. In this chapter, we will learn more about some troubles in Klaus' family and get to know Elijah and his own life. Please review when you finish reading. I love this story myself and enjoy it! **

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Day of Chosen Fate**

Lucy had been talking all morning about how she wanted to come with us. The problem was that only parents were allowed. And the way our mother hadn't been there for me for the past 4 years, I knew for sure that she wasn't going to be at the reaping this day. "Let me find you something to wear." I whispered to Jake and got him in a room where I could find him some good clothes. I had some clothes of our late father's that remained. Our mom kept them for some reason, never wanting to give them away. Jake was playing with his fingers, a bit nervous of what was going to happen to us this day. Our fates would be decided by the people sent by the Capitol. My brother could be in danger after the reaping and I wouldn't be able to do anything about it. I thought about our last tribute, Katniss Everdeen, how she managed to find the courage and volunteer for her little sister when she got picked. She was there in the crowd and she was watching. She made a huge sacrifice for her little sister and took a huge risk of never seeing her family again. I couldn't do the same thing for Jake even if I wanted to. He was a boy and I couldn't volunteer for a male tribute, always a female tribute. My eyes watered a little as I pulled out the suit my father used to wear and sowed it so it would fit Jake.

He sat down on the bed, watching me as a sowed and cut gently and swiftly. Lucy was in her room, most likely making a tantrum that she couldn't be there with us. It wasn't like she was allowed. She was a minor and she was only allowed if she had adult supervision and we pretty much had none of that. "Do you think it could happen? Me getting picked?" Jake asked and I shook my head. "No, it's not going to happen to you. I promise that you're not going to be in those games." I finished the suit and made him try it on. It fit him perfectly. At last, I found an old dress for myself. It looked more like a white nightgown but I didn't mind. It was perfect for this occasion. I let my hair fall over my shoulders in splendid brown curls. I have always been admired for them, for some reason. That is one of the reasons why I had begun to love them being shown. There was some noise outside. A helicopter! I knew what this sound meant. I heard it for 4 years already with my heart beating fast and chills running down my spine. "They're here." Jake whispered, thinking the same things I was thinking. I nodded. "Yes, they're here." "Hayley!" Lucy came inside with tears running down her face and hugging me tightly. It was as if I was going to die or something. I hugged her back nonetheless as Jake rolled his eyes and turned his hands into fists. He really needed to give her a break.

"I am scared." Lucy wept and I kissed her head. "Nothing is going to happen to me, I can promise you that. "What do you think is going to happen to us if you get chosen?" Lucy asked me and I didn't know how I should be answering her. "You just need to have hope and faith that it won't ever happen." I whispered to her and kissed her head again. "And I want you to come back home too." Lucy whispered and pulled Jake into a hug. It was the sweetest thing I had ever seen. Jake pulled her off of him and headed to the door. "Let's get this over with." he mumbled under his breath and I followed him outside, waving goodbye to Lucy who was staring at us depart. For someone as young as Jake, only in his first year of selection, he was pretty brave.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Day of Chosen Fate**

"Nik!" Rebekah called out and ran into the yard. I saw her looking at me with a smile on her face. I was facing 10 dummies and in less than five seconds, I slayed them all with my sword. I had completed my task for today after all. "Come inside, Nik! I have some clothes laid out for you for the reaping." I nodded and climbed up the stairs, and washed my hands as Rebekah watched me, curiously. "What's the matter with you? You looked excited last night that you will volunteer." "I wish I wouldn't have to. I hate myself for acting out so brave and courageous all the time." "Well, that's what makes you the best, Nik and you are going to win The Hunger Games. I just know you will." "And what if I don't? What's going to happen then? I am just supposed to leave you here with…" I refrained from saying anything rude about my father and even Rebekah put a finger to her lips. She knew what would happen if I said a word.

"Father really appreciates you, you know? He's proud of you." I could see it in her eyes that she was lying. "Do whatever the hell you want, sister. But just don't lie to me. He was never proud of me and he never will be." "How can you say that? You are his son. Of course he is proud of you." I stopped washing myself and I remembered that day, that day I first cried and the last day I ever cried. I remembered what my mother had told me before she left for District 1 with my brothers whom I haven't seen in a long time, Elijah and Kol. What she had told me changed my perspective of things. I couldn't bear to look in Mikael's eyes that day.

_"Son, I have sinned a lot in my life but I never once failed in raising any of my children the right way. I will miss you, Niklaus. You will always be my son." "Why do you have to go, Mother? Can't you talk things through with Father?" I asked her and she just shook her head, smiling down with tears in her eyes. "I wish it could be that simple. He is very cruel and vindictive. But he wasn't always this way. Yes, he always had pride in himself and he always showed off his wealth and fortune after he won The Hunger Games but he was kind to me and that is how he got me to marry him and have his children. After we got married, I've been treated horribly, especially when I was pregnant with you, my son. I wanted to be loved. I wanted to have a man who loved me and…I did. Cheating was forbidden but I did it anyways. I gave myself to the man I truly loved all along, and who loved me back just as much." I looked shocked. "Who is this man, Mother? Why haven't you told me before?" Esther just started crying all over again and kissed my hands. "It's what I am trying to tell you. I am telling you something that you can't tell anyone else, especially not Mikael. You tell no one, understood? Not Mikael, not Rebekah, no one!" I nodded, eager to know. "You are not the son of Mikael, Niklaus. You are the son of the man I loved, but died after I gave birth to you. Your father never knew about this affair and you must not tell him ever about this, my son!" _

My eyes watered a little as I remembered that. My own mother had lied to me for years. All this time, I had believed Mikael to be my real father when he really wasn't. Once my mother left, I kept that secret to myself all this time and still acted like I still saw Mikael as a father. I have always disliked him as a child but I thought that he was still my father and I should love and appreciate him for that, but as soon as I found out that he wasn't my biological father, I grew only rage and anger for him and for the way he treated my mother and I had no idea. "Nik, are you okay?" Rebekah was asking me. I turned around and saw her standing there, looking firm and tall, whispering, "You know that Father does not permit you to cry." I shook my head and tears continued to stream down my cheeks. Rebekah pulled me into a hug. "Maybe there is a little emotional boy inside of you after all. You just never show it, keeping it under that hardcore mask of yours." she whispered to me and I nodded. I realized just how much I missed my brothers and my mother, but because of Mikael, I had to act like they were the enemies now. "I agreed to do this for the family, Rebekah and I swore to myself that I would avenge the tributes that were killed from District 2. I will do that. The tributes from District 12 this year better hope they stay out of my sight. Father told me to do something and I accept to do it."

Rebekah sighed as she held me. "Why would you listen to Father? You know he's talking rubbish." "He is. But I just saved myself from a year of beating." Rebekah knew that I was right. "Take care of yourself, brother. You know that you must. You must win The Hunger Games. I can't bear the thought of losing you." "And I can't bear the thought of having to see you alone here with him. I will be back; I promise and in the meantime, try to stay out of trouble, little sister so that he won't have any reason to hurt you." "Okay, I will. Now, get dressed." "You won't get picked, Rebekah. You don't have to worry about that." Rebekah wiped away some tears which also left her eyes. "How do you know that?" "I just do. You won't get picked." Rebekah sighed and nodded to me, still pointing at the suit that she had laid out for me. "Father wants you to wear this. He wore this when he himself volunteered to be the District 2nd tribute of The Hunger Games." I growled when I thought that now I would be forced to wear anything that once belonged to Mikael. I hated his guts and hated his pride. But for once in my life, I did agree with him. For the loss of Clove and Cato in the 74th annual Hunger Games, things had to change and I had to be the one to avenge the best tributes that there have been in those games. It was my duty to turn my hatred to the tributes from District 12, whoever they would be. I looked at the suit Rebekah had laid out for me and without hesitating this time, I put it on with pride.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**The Day of Chosen Fate**

I was watching what could have been the greatest day in District 1st's history. Kol was watching it along with me that morning. It was the recording of the 74th Hunger Games. "I cannot believe that they actually shot Marvel." Kol mumbled as he watched the scene. "It was that girl, the fan favorite, Katniss Everdeen." I didn't usually like saying the girl's name. She wasn't my taste. She had defeated our fellow comrades and I just couldn't respect her for that. "What happened to the kind and noble Elijah I used to know?" Kol joked as he watched me. "I can't be that person when it comes to this girl. This year, I am going to make this district proud of me." "What if you don't get picked?" Kol asked with a smug look on his face. "I am going to volunteer." "No, come on! You know that's a sap thing to do here. Most of the people from Districts 1 and 2 actually want to participate. It depends on luck. If you chose to stand up and take someone else's place as the tribute, don't expect this District to support you after. Here, its' all about luck. When it comes to the poorer districts like 10, 11 and 12, volunteering is considered something rare and noble for someone to volunteer and save someone else's life. They're such pathetic cowards…unlike us!" The video had ended and I closed the hologram.

Our mother walked inside with fresh clothes. "Get going and be safe." Esther told me and I nodded as she smiled. "You are brave my son and this is your last year to participate. Don't volunteer." "It's the chance of a lifetime to be part of these games, Mother. I am 18 and this is my last chance." "I know. You have that ambition and strength in you that your father had when he won the games." Esther said, smiling as she combed my hair. I sighed and rubbed my eyes as Kol smirked at me. "I will do what I must do, Mother." "Good. Now before you leave, come into the kitchen. You have good meals prepared for both of you to give you strength for this." Esther told us and we both nodded as she stepped out of the room. Kol commented on my suit. "Hey, not bad! Looking good, grandpa!" I just rolled my eyes and put on a good tie.

We ate breakfast in silence. Kol was not the least bit concerned that he was going to get picked. He had been training since forever on Father's money. Then again, so have I. We were both prepared but Kol was only 16. He had 2 more years to choose to participate besides this one. Even though he would still have 2 more chances of getting picked or choosing to take the chance and volunteer himself, he wouldn't mind if he were picked this year but I would never forgive him for taking the chance of a lifetime from me. "I wonder if Nik is going to participate this year. You all know Father will most likely make him." Kol said as he chewed the meat covered with rich sauce. I looked over at Mother and I saw how she was starting to tremble. I knew that she missed her other children so badly. We hadn't seen them for a couple years. "Please, eat your meal, Kol and stop talking about your brother." Esther said. "Why? We barely talk about Nik or Rebekah. I just want to know how they're doing, that's all. Just because you cut yourself from their lives, that doesn't mean that we have to as well." Kol said to Mother and I saw fury on her face. I was angry as well. "Kol, shut up!" I commanded him and he rolled his eyes and finished eating.

Our mother was going to come with us, but she told me that she would be caught up in some problems and would join us later. I grabbed Kol and we headed outside as we heard the sound that spread throughout all districts. It was like we were in the army. The sound represented nothing more but death. I looked over my shoulder and I saw 3 girls leave the same house. I knew whose house that was. The girl I used to date and loved, Katherine Pierce. Her dress was beautiful and her brown and long hair brought out her shinning green eyes as they caught mine and she quickly looked away. She found an excuse one month ago to break up with me because she didn't want her family to be associated to the Mikaelsons but I knew that was not true. There was something that she was hiding. There was something she was scared of and she wasn't telling me, and Katherine was not the person to be afraid of something. She was fierce, tough, beautiful and strong. She wouldn't let anything stand in her way when she wanted something. She had two other sisters. Her twin sister, who was Elena. She was younger than Katherine by 10 minutes, but they were both 17 and Katherine's older sister who was 18, Tatia. Tatia was not as pretty as her twin sisters, even though she had almost the same face features.

"I will catch up to you in a minute, Kol. Go right ahead!" I told him and turned towards the girls. I saw Kol catching Elena's eyes and winking at her. Kol didn't mind to flirt with girls who were older than him and Elena was one year older than him. Elena was blushing. Katherine and Elena were almost inseparable and only I could tell the difference between the two. It was all about the expression on each other's faces. Elena looked more childish than Katherine. Now, everyone knew that Katherine always curls her hair and so Elena lets hers straight so people could tell who is who. "Katerina." I whispered. It was how I loved to call her. It sounded more soothing than Katherine and I loved to make her feel soothed. "Elijah, it's been a long time." Katherine said politely. "I really need to talk to you." "There is no time for that. Everyone must be at the reaping in 10 minutes." Katherine whispered. Elijah grabbed her arm before she could walk away. "Why did you do it…last month? What's the real reason?" I insisted and Katherine immediately pulled her hand away. "Let's go, girls." she told Elena and Tatia.

Tatia gave me a huge smile as she walked past me. She had always tried to get my attention, but Katherine was the one for me and not her older sister. "Elijah!" I heard Kol call out to me and I turned around and saw him standing there with his arms crossed over his chest, and he was smirking. **"Citizens of District 1, make your way to the selection at once!" **We heard someone yell out. Katherine, Elena and Tatia walked away as I went back to Kol. "Why do you think she broke up with you?" Kol asked. "I don't know." "Did you two have a fight?" "A difference of opinion about the 74th Games female tribute of District 1, Glimmer." "What happened?" "Katerina wanted to be just like her. She wanted to act tough like she did, go out in those games and kill. I didn't agree with the way she was bloodthirsty to kill people. We got over it. But it's not it. I know it's not."

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Reaping**

Jack and I headed to the selection. I was holding his hand and I felt his body tremble. I didn't know if it was either from the cold or because he was nervous. "You don't have to be afraid. I will always protect you, Jake." I whispered to him and he shook his head. "I am not afraid!" "Good." I knew that he liked to act tough and responsible. It made me think about how this would have been our dad, had he still been alive. I think of him every time I walk towards the reaping. I wished I could have someone close to me. A parent, anyone besides Jake, who needed someone just as much as I needed someone.

We finally arrived. The place that haunted me for months. The place where the people from the Capitol gathered around all the young men and women from the district between the ages of 12 and 18. This was the 5th time that I was forced to be here. I took Jake's shoulders with my hands and made him looked at me as I got down on my knees to look at him straight in the eyes. "This is it. This is where they are going to take a little bit of blood from you, alright? They will just prick your finger and that's all. Then, you have to follow the rest of the kids your own age." I told Jake. "You mean that you won't be with me?" Jake asked and I shook my head, kissing his cheek. "No. Here is where we part until after the selection. We are divided by gender. The boys are on the right and the girls are on the left." I informed him and he nodded. "Go ahead." I whispered to him and he went where he was supposed to. I watched as those people from the Capitol, all dressed in white, pricked his finger and got a little blood as DNA and proof that he had attended the selection. This is how they kept track of everyone, to make sure that everyone attended. Anyone who didn't would be punished with death.

My finger was pulled and I wasn't even looking at the woman who pricked my own finger for blood DNA. I was looking at my little brother the whole time there. He tried not to look nervous even though he was a little bit nervous. After everyone's finger had been pricked for blood, they arranged us just like I said, in two different places. Girls on the left and boys on the right. It was how it was now. Before the 75th games rebellion, it didn't used to matter that much. I thought of what a brave woman Katniss Everdeen had been but after the rebellion, she and her family lived in hiding along with the boy she loved, Peeta. The Capitol had never heard of her since the failed attempt to take down the Capitol. I wish they had succeeded for all of us. We would have all lived a whole different life. My brother and my sister wouldn't starve if things were different. There was a _"tap tap" _that could be heard from the stage right in front of us and I snapped out of my thoughts as I saw the woman standing there, looking down at us. It was Effie. The woman from the Capitol who represented District 12 and after she had chosen the competitors, she would be in charge of guiding them until they reached the Capitol which would take a day at the very least to get there, from what I've heard. Effie didn't look as happy as she used to be ever since she picked out Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark from us to be the tributes. She had grown fond of them and in my opinion, I didn't think she appreciated the games as much as she used to. "Welcome!" she exclaimed and she forced a smile at all of us.

"Happy Hunger Games and may the odds be ever in your favor!" Effie declared and then quickly said "We have a special film brought to you all the way from the Capitol, just for you." she declared and the film started as President Snow narrated it and explained all about the rebellion before The Hunger Games started. I had watched this film so many times that I had grown tired of it. But at the end of it, they showed something new. The woman I most admired. Katniss Everdeen and how she fought in The Hunger Games and then against the Capitol. I growled a little as I heard how badly she was spoken of. She was a hero and I hoped that wherever she was hiding, she was safe and happy with Peeta. _"A symbol of our generosity and our forgiveness." _President Snow ended the film and Effie clapped quickly. "I love this film!" I was beginning to think that she was told what to say to the people every time. It angered me how the people from the Capitol could talk about generosity and forgiveness when it came to the victor of each year's games. They were killing innocent people!

"Now, the time has come for us to select one courageous young man and woman in honor of representing District 12 in the 77th annual Hunger Games!" Effie declared with a fake smile to the people. I breathed in deeply and put my hand to my neck and thought about my father, something I always did during the selection. "As always, ladies first." Effie said in more of a whisper. I looked over to the boys' side and saw Jake standing there, tall and firm. I liked my little brother. He was so brave and I loved him with all my heart. I turned back to Effie who was approaching the girls' bowl and started searching inside for a piece of paper. _"Father, please guide me. Tell me what I should do. Tell me to be strong. I ask you to be here for me, even if you haven't been as you were alive, be here for me from the dead in the most difficult period of my life. Be there for Jake and Lucy, your son and daughter as well." _This is what I thought to myself whenever I thought about my father, whenever I was here. I asked him to protect me and Jake and Lucy from the other side. Effie finally picked out a piece of paper, showed it to the cameras and then returned to her place at the microphone. She opened the piece of paper.

My breath got caught inside and I couldn't exhale at that moment. The name! I needed to know the name on that piece of paper so I could exhale. "Hmm." Effie said through the microphone and I already knew that she was doing the suspense thing for the show. This was on film as well, so might as well act like we were really eager to know who's name was written on that paper. "Hayley Marshall!" Effie exclaimed and my breathing hitched. My mouth was slightly open in shock. What? Had she just said my name? What was my name? Why was I having trouble remembering my name? "Where are you, my dear?" Effie finally asked and everyone turned and looked towards me. Then, I remembered. It was me. I was Hayley Marshall. "Come up here!" Effie finally called out when she spotted me. I breathed in deeply and looked at the ground. It was me. I had to do this. Slowly, I walked out of the group of people so the soldiers of the Capitol with their white helmets could grab a hold of me and lead me to the stage. I could hear a scream in the back. "NOOOO!" It was Jake. I knew it was Jake. I looked back and I saw that he was trying to get to me but the guards wouldn't let him. "Stand aside, boy!" they exclaimed and pushed him back. "Jake!" I called out to him and whispered, "I'm sorry." He just shook his head and wiped away his tears as he stepped back into the group.

I finally managed to get on the stage and Effie grabbed a hold my arm, taking me to her left. "There you go, my dear." She saw the way I looked down to my feet, still wasn't able to process what was going on. "And now, for the boys!" Effie said this time and I gasped, thinking that Jake might as well be one of the candidates in that bowl. What if Effie were to pick him? What would I do? What would happen to Lucy? There was no one to care for her. She was only 10 years old but even Jake was only 12. Tears formed in my eyes as I finally realized that I was going to the Capitol as District 12th female tribute. Effie picked a piece of paper out of that bowl and looked at me. "That was your little brother?" she asked in a whisper and not at the microphone as she was supposed to. I nodded with tears in my eyes. "Yes." She looked down with sadness and went back to the microphone and spoke up. "The male tribute from District 12 is…" She opened up the piece of paper, read the name, looked at me and smiled and it looked like there was relief on her face. "Joshua Rosza!" she called out the name and I sighed as I realized that it was not my brother. A boy my age, who looked like he would be scared of a fly, opened his mouth in shock but was quickly pushed onto the stage by the Capitol's men. "Shake hands now!" Effie commanded and I turned to the boy named Joshua and shook his head slowly, as he was still looking in shock. Effie started clapping as the other people in the crowd showed us the rebellion sign, three fingers pointed up. They looked sorry for me. I had no idea what I should say to them. "Very well! We now have our two tributes from District 12, Hayley Marshall and Joshua Rosza! Happy Hunger Games…and may the odds be ever in your favor!"

They opened the door to my room. I saw who was standing there. Jake and Lucy. Lucy had ran immediately into my arms, crying and hugging me. I hugged her back and whispered to Jake, "Why did you bring her here?" Jake frowned. "She's supposed to be here. Family members. We are the only family members you have." "Please don't go." Lucy whimpered and I cried into her neck. "It's okay." I whispered and wiped my tears away. I had to be strong for her. Jake was standing there with his arms crossed over his chest. "You promised you would never leave us!" "I won't ever leave you!" I contradicted. "Come back to us." Lucy whispered, still crying. "I promise I will try." I told her and tried to smile, kissing her cheek. "You need to be strong, Luce, just like I told you. You can do this. You can survive on your own with Jake until I come back. This isn't something permanent. I will come back." I told her and prayed to God that I would keep my promise. I didn't know what I was going to do but I was going to survive. I looked over at Jake who looked at me with tears in his eyes and I knew what he was thinking. I let go of Lucy after kissing her forehead and moved to Jake and hugged him too. "You are the man in the family now, Jake. You must take care of Lucy. She is your responsibility now. I have money saved up for you too. I put it in the cookie jar above the cupboard. Use it to buy food each day that I'm gone, alright?" "When will you be back? You promised, Hayley." Jake said through tears as I kept him close to me. "I will be back. That is a promise that I am going to make to you right now. You cannot survive this life without me. I am going to be there for you. I won't leave you like Mom did. I won't ever do that." "Goodbye." Jake whispered and at that moment, the white guards came inside and pulled Jake and Lucy out of the room. "It's time to go." I covered my mouth with my hand, thinking about what I was going to do.

**A/N: Well, that's it for the second chapter. I hope I have given you a lot more information about the Mikaelson family because at the moment, they are much more interesting than the Marshall family. In the next chapter, we will see the reaping of Districts 1 and 2. Thank you for reading and I hope that you are going to leave me reviews after this chapter because I am dying to know what you think about the story. And most importantly, what do you think about Klaus and his secret that his mother told him? You will notice throughout the fanfiction that Klaus has two sides, two personalities. Sometimes, he can be the charming, arrogant and sexy womanizer type of guy and the other time, he can be like Rebekah put it "a little boy". He only acts kind to the people that he cares about, just so you know. Don't expect to see this soft side of Klaus more often, because it won't be like that. Review and let me know! I love you all and thank you!**


	4. Career Tributes

**Welcome back to the next chapter, everyone! The last time, we got to know a little bit more about the Mikaelson family and we got to see the selection of the tributes from District 12. Jake and Lucy have said goodbye to Hayley and now, she is responsible of getting back to her little brother and sister. Her partner is going to be Joshua (Josh) Rosza. We will get to know more about him in this chapter too as we set off to see how the annual reaping for other districts went, besides Hayley's. Thank you so much. I have read your reviews and I am glad that you want me to continue. For the moment, the main pairing is the only one who I am sure of, as for the rest, I will try to follow your likings of other pairings and see what I can do to make them happen. Please review and enjoy a brand new chapter!**

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Annual Reaping **

**"Citizens of District 2, make your way to the reaping at once!" **I heard the announcement. I looked at myself in the mirror and smirked. "Today's the day." I said to myself. I always hoped that I would get the honor of hearing my name come from that woman's mouth. I wanted to be chosen, not to volunteer myself. I wanted to be chosen to fight and avenge my fellow tributes that were killed. We had the best warriors here in District 2, even better ones than the ones from District 1. Mikael grabbed a hold of my arm and whispered in my ear, "You better do what's right this year." I pulled my arm away from him and went outside where Rebekah was waiting. She was dressed very elegantly. All the women from Districts 1 and 2 had the best clothing, due to the wealth we all had. We were strong and powerful and the Capitol was proud with us. "Let's go, Nik." Rebekah whispered and took my hand in hers. I nodded and together we stepped to the place where we were all supposed to be gathered. I knew that Mikael was following right behind us and when we arrived at the place, we were pricked so they could get blood from our fingers. Every year, the same procedures, I was getting the hell bored.

Rebekah took her place next to the girls; there were a lot of them that she saw from the Academy that we all went to. Nobody was scared in our district. It was an honor to get the chance to participate in The Hunger Games and everyone knew that. I looked around at the girls and I saw the blonde girl that I used to date once, Caroline Forbes. She blew me an air kiss when she saw me and I shook my head with a smile. She never really got over it even when I had to explain to her that we were broken up and that there wasn't going to be anything between us anymore. We had some sexual attraction in the past for over a year but that was it really. She just didn't understand that. She actually thought that I was still willing to see her. Rebekah was standing right next to her. She never really got along with Caroline and saw her as a very shallow little princess. My little sister was glad when she found out that I had broken up with Caroline. I smiled over at Rebekah and she smiled back but I could tell that she was really nervous. The lady who was at the microphone was smiling wildly and I always commented that with her makeup and her frizzy hair, she was impersonating a clown, which is why I couldn't help myself but start laughing as she appeared on the stage. She was all white and with blue eyeliner and lips. She looked like a ghost sometimes. Her name was Gora and she was representing District 2 every year. "Welcome, welcome!" she exclaimed, clearly excited for this. "Happy Hunger Games and may the odds be ever in your favor!" The same thing over and over again. Rebekah caught my eye again and she rolled her eyes. "Now, we have a special film brought to you from the Capitol!" she exclaimed and clapped as the hologram showed it once again. I knew all the words from the film by heart, the words that belonged to President Snow. Mikael had made me watch numerous times. I sighed and was glad when the film finally ended.

"Now, the time has come for us to select one courageous young man and woman for the honor of representing District 2 in the 77th annual Hunger Games. Let's start with…ladies first!" Oh, there's a shocker! She always picked the girl's name first. I looked over at Rebekah and the other girls around her. They were all smiling and looking proud. Rebekah was the only one hoping that it wouldn't be her. Gora looked into the bowl and picked out a piece of paper which she showed it to everyone. She unfolded it gently and looked at the name. Rebekah was breathing harder than ever, I could tell. "Our female tribute…Camille O'Connell!" Rounds of applause were heard as the bookworm, Camille O'Connell took off her glasses and jumped up and down excited as she stepped up on the stage. I could see other blondes like Caroline who looked very upset. Caroline looked like she was ready to volunteer but didn't have the courage. I knew Camille very well. A lot of people liked to call her Cami or Bookworm, because she was absolutely obsessed with books and education. I couldn't believe that out of all the hot chicks, Gora had to pick Camille. I knew that she wouldn't last a day in the Hunger Games with those books of hers. She didn't get the proper training like others. I smirked as I saw that she had taken off her glasses to look more like she was mature and strong. She was bluffing. She wasn't mature nor strong, even if she did read the encyclopedia thousands of times. Still, with her knowledge of the outdoor and surviving skills, she might actually have a shot and shouldn't be underestimated. She had long and blonde wavy hair and if she were to get a facial, she might actually look pretty hot without her glasses. "Very well." Gora said with a smile as she took her by her side.

"The male tribute now, shall we?" Gora asked and there was silence all around the place. Here it came. The parents were sitting in the back and I turned my head to see Mikael glaring at me. Gora went over to the bowl and looked inside. She hesitated for a moment before she put her hand inside and took out a piece of paper. She opened it up and went to the microphone. "Our male tribute…Jordan Elson!" she exclaimed and there were rounds of applause. I groaned as I looked back at Mikael and he exclaimed, "Do it, boy!" I had to do this to please him. In his eyes, I was stinging the family name but volunteering to take someone else's place was…well… I stepped out from the crowd and yelled out with as much force as I could, "I volunteer as tribute!" Everyone stopped applauding and they all turned around to look at me. Gora recognized me and smiled as she exclaimed, "Well, District 2 has a volunteer! And I see who it is. Come up here, boy!" Elson growled and turned back to his place. He missed his shot because of me but I couldn't care less at that point. With a smirk on my face as I knew that I was soon going to be praised, I raised myself on the stage and Camille frowned at me. I ignored her and went to stand next to Gora as she put her hand on my shoulder. "Niklaus Mikaelson, 17 I believe and the son of the one and only, Mikael Mikaelson who had one of the most splendid winnings of The Hunger Games in his time!" Gora said and they all started clapping again for me and for Mikael. "That was very good! Such courage to volunteer and choose to participate!" she said and then looked at everyone else. "We have our 2 tributes from District 2, Niklaus Mikaelson and Camille O'Connell! I wish you all the best! Happy Hunger Games and may the odds be ever in your favor!" At last, she took us to our special rooms where we would wait for relatives as always.

Rebekah came inside with a smile after a couple of minutes and hugged me as Mikael came in after her. "What were you hesitating for?" Mikael asked me and I frowned, choosing not to answer him. "Are you happy you didn't get called on?" I asked Rebekah and she nodded, much to Mikael's disapproval. "Win the games! You know you can do it! I will be rooting for you every day for always, Nik!" I smiled at her and nodded as Mikael stepped over to me afterwards and pulled me into a hug as well. "Well done, son! You better win these games and make your family proud, you hear me?" "I will, Father!" I said with determination. I was going to win the games but I wasn't doing it to please Mikael. I was doing it so I could get back to Rebekah and not leave her alone with her monster-like father for the rest of her life and I was going to go out there and kill for our passing tributes, Cato and Clove. "You are a Career Tribute, you hear and you are going to be treated as such. You will receive fame and glory and you won't have trouble receiving support once you get there. Make alliances, not friends, you hear?" Mikael was telling me and I rolled my eyes at his instructions. "Father, take it easy!" Rebekah told him and he stopped. She turned back towards me and kissed my cheek. "Goodbye and come home soon with that golden crown on your head, champion!" Soon, Rebekah and Mikael made their departure and I was left in that room to think, until they would pick me up and take me on the train to the Capitol, just like the other tributes.

I heard another knock on the door and then the guards opened it up. I was allowed to have two visits as the rest of the tributes. The door opened and it revealed someone that I never expected to see. "Klaus!" Caroline exclaimed and flung her arms around my neck as she giggled. I pushed her off me and asked, "What are you doing here?" I asked her. She looked confused but she still smiled. "What do you mean? You volunteered. You were so brave. I am here to say goodbye. I asked the guards outside to make an exception and leave me more minutes in here." She whispered and then winked seductively. I rolled my eyes at her attitude. This was exactly the reason why I never saw her as anything more than a fling. "So…you should know that I would have volunteered had I found out first that you would participate. Anything to be with you." Caroline put her hands on my chest and started rubbing them slowly. I eyed her sternly. I wasn't in the mood for her games. I took her hands and pushed her away. "What is wrong with you, Nicky? Why are you being like this with me? Are you mad at me?" Caroline asked with that pout of hers that I knew well. She put her hands on her hips and waited for my response. "Listen, Caroline…we had a thing alright? But it's over now." Caroline looked shocked. "You're breaking up with me?" "I had broken up with you some time ago. I am sure that you can remember, but with that fish memory of yours…lasts about 3 seconds." She gasped and was about to slap my face but I stopped her. "Get out, already! I don't want to see you again, alright? I told you many times before. We had our fun but it's over and I don't need you on my head right now. I have to fight for my life out there now." She once again didn't get my message and cupped my cheeks and gave me a long kiss while I grabbed her shoulders and pushed her off. "Okay, now you're really getting out of line." "I will be rooting for you. I know that you are stressed out. I understand and we can continue our relationship when you get back. I won't stress you out anymore. I'll go. Goodbye, my champion!" She said the same thing as Rebekah. Caroline always had that kind of jealousy when it came to Rebekah because at that time, I was spending more time with my own sister than my so-called girlfriend. And even now, she still didn't get the memo. I slapped my forehead as she left the room. When they said that some blondes are just born dumb, they weren't kidding. It doesn't matter now. I had to focus and get my head in the game. I would slaughter anyone who got in my way of winning.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**The Annual Reaping**

They lined us up and we waited. Kol got his finger pricked and joined me, smugly. That's how our district was. We were happy to be loaded and having such fine women in our lives. I was in the front row this time with Kol right next to me. Our mother was in the back with the rest of our parents. "Oh boy, this is going to be good." Kol whispered to me. I didn't look at him. The only thing I could do was glance over to my right where the girls were waiting and I could see the twins, Elena and Katherine. Tatia was standing behind them with some of her friends from the Academy, all wearing rich and expensive dresses. Elena was smiling and looked very excited for what was about to happen, but Katherine didn't look excited at all. All she could do was look at her feet and touch her curls once in a while. She was not excited as she was supposed to be. When she talked to me a couple of months ago, she wanted more than anything to be a part of the games this time and get fame and fortune. Now, she looked disinterested. What interested me even more was that Katherine wanted to do this for her good friend Glimmer who was the 74th Hunger Games, District 1st Female Tribute. Glimmer used to be a good friend of hers.

The woman who was supposed to be guiding the District 1 tributes of every year was Nina, dressed all in red and the lipstick she was using made all of us believe that it was blood, not real lipstick. Her hair and her clothes were all red, including the make-up. "Welcome, welcome! Happy Hunger Games! And may the odds be ever in your favor, my darlings!" The girls looked absolutely thrilled about this. Elena looked over at Kol and she smiled to him. I knew that Kol was always flirting with girls but he seemed to take a special interest in Elena lately. I decided to say nothing as the woman Nina played us the film she played us every year from the Capitol. Kol loved the film, but I couldn't see the point of it at all. I looked up at last and I saw what was going to happen with the tributes, going to be thrown in a bloodbath. I shook my head as I thought of 23 people dead and only one being alive. "I will volunteer if I must." I whispered to Kol and he just shook his head. "That is disrespecting your district, brother. Don't say I didn't warn you. It's not that you're not allowed but you really don't want to upset the district, your home, that's supposed to be rooting for you if you volunteer." Kol told me and for once, he was right. I hoped though that I wouldn't have to volunteer and just be chosen.

The film ended and Nina clapped really hard, smiling too big for her scrunched up face. "I just love that! Now, let's move on to the reaping. I can tell that you are all excited you who will be the two lucky people who will honor District 1 this year." Nina said and went to one bowl. "First, we have the girls." She searched through the pile of names and found one that she liked, holding it up. She smiled at us widely and I hummed slowly, getting really impatient. "Our female tribute of District 1…Katherine Pierce!" Nina exclaimed and I gasped and looked over at her. She was standing there and she looked absolutely terrified. People were giving her looks of shock, especially Elena who apparently couldn't understand her attitude either. They were expecting someone of her value to be happy about this. Apparently, for some reason, she wasn't. I could never remember her be this unhappy about getting chosen.

_"Come on, Elijah! Catch me!" She fluttered away from me in her beautiful gown and I was left to catch her. I knew that I would eventually. I caught her arm and we landed on the soft grass. I looked down at her as she was still smiling. "I keep thinking about this year. I want to be in The Hunger Games this time. I have to avenge Glimmer." she whispered and kissed me, standing up. I stood up with her. "If you go, I will have to come with you, to protect you so we can make it out together." Katherine raised an eyebrow. "There is only one winner, Elijah. You would have to kill me in the end to survive and get back home, you know that." "I would never do that. I would rather let you kill me so you can get back home." "Stop lying." "I am not lying; I would sacrifice myself for you." She smiled smugly and kissed me once again. "Good. Because I would sacrifice myself for you too." She said in a whisper and then added, "But don't let anyone know that I told you that." She then raced back to her home with me left chasing after her the way she always liked it. I knew I would love and chase her till the end. _

"Katherine Pierce, come up here my dear!" Nina demanded and the white soldiers were ready to move in the group of girls and force her out. Why was she hesitating? What was wrong with her? I saw her eyes meet mine and she looked scared, so terribly scared. Maybe she hadn't meant what she told me about wanting to participate in those games. Why would she be so scared right now when this was her chance of a lifetime, what she wanted? "What the hell is she doing? I'm getting bored here." Kol mumbled under his breath and saw the soldiers finally realize who was Katherine Pierce and they pulled her out of there, taking her on the stage next to Nina. She looked at her and asked. "Are you in shock, my dear? Do you need some water?" she asked and Katherine just shook her head as she was still only looking at me. "Well, it seems that we've already wasted enough time so I will immediately pick the name of the male tribute!" Nina exclaimed and moved to the other bowl. Kol was keeping his fingers crossed. Nina took less time than usual and she looked really tired. I looked at the frightened Katherine there. I remembered what I had promised her. I would always choose to sacrifice myself for her. Whoever it was, I would volunteer, for her. "Our male tribute from District 1…Elijah Mikaelson!" I looked up and everyone clapped. I realized it was me and I didn't hesitate to move up on the stage and go to Katherine, but Nina put me on the other side of her. Kol gave me the thumbs up with a smile on his face and clapped along with others. "Our tributes from District 1, Elijah Mikaelson and Katherine Pierce!" She then grabbed both of us and we were off the stage and towards the rooms where we were supposed to say goodbye to our families.

My mother, Esther came inside and Kol came in too. "You have 5 minutes." The soldier told them. I knew that other poorer districts had only 3 with their families. My mother pulled me in for a hug and began crying. "Don't cry, mother! I was going to volunteer anyway, remember? Nina spared me the shame and picked me." I told her and she nodded, whispering, "I just…I just know that Niklaus will be a tribute this year and…you haven't seen him in such a long time and…" She began crying really hard and I understood her worries. The last thing she wanted was watch her sons trying to kill one another on television. "Mom, I am not scared of anything that might happen to me, you hear me? I will do what I must to protect myself and I will protect Katherine until the end too. I will see to it that we both make it home, whatever it takes!" I promised Esther and she nodded, hugging me again and then stepping back to let Kol hug me goodbye as well. It wouldn't be long now and I will be on the train to the Capitol. We were the closest district to them so it would only take us a couple of hours. "Hey, you take care of yourself out there, bro and if Klaus is there…I…I don't know. Do what you think is right." Kol told me and hugged me once again before stepping back. "I love you, my son! Don't forget that." Esther whispered and she stepped back to leave along with Kol. They waved goodbye to me.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**On The Train**

"Step right inside, young ones!" Effie said and we boarded the train. The moment we did, the doors closed and train began moving. I knew how long the Hunger Games could last. And my brother and sister were going to see me on television. What would happen? What if I died right in front of their eyes? What would happen to them? They have no one and nothing. They would be orphans and no one would love them. I refrained myself from crying now as we entered the main room. The train began moving and you didn't feel it move at all. It was as though we weren't moving at all but we were. All I saw in these chambers were sweets I have heard about but have never tasted before. This was very good food that I had never dared to taste and I wouldn't start now. I knew what a shame it would be to do so when Lucy and Jake were starving at home and I was here, in for a treat, as Effie put it to taste wonders and walk through fame and fortune just because I was a pawn now in the Capitol's games.

I looked over at the guy who was standing next to me. He gaped at what was right in front of him and soon enough, he started grabbing lots of candy and pilling them in his mouth like an idiot. I was about to be sick. Effie just chuckled. "Be careful or you will spoil your appetite. Dinner is in 2 hours. But until dinner is served, I think it would be best if you just sit here, relax and I will bring in your mentor." Mentor! I was really hoping that it would be Haymitch, the one that taught Katniss everything he knew and she won the game with his help. This could be my chance to win if I had him. The boy, who was Joshua or something, was not stopping. I couldn't take it anymore and I yelled at him. "Hey!" I exclaimed and he stopped and looked at me as if I was his mother and his hand got caught in the cookie jar. He gulped and put the rest of the candy, donuts and whatever those sweets were down. I refused to eat anything! "Sorry. Did you want some?" Joshua mumbled and I sighed. Was this boy aware of what was happening to us? How old was he anyway. He looked like he was about 15 but he was acting much smaller for his age.

"Do you realize what is happening? Are you aware that our lives are at stake right now?" I asked him and he lowered his head. "That's why I am trying to make the best of the time I have alive." he whispered and sat down and I rolled my eyes. "What kind of man are you, Joshua?" "I am not a man, alright and I like to be called Josh, not Joshua. I didn't ask for this." "Do you think I did? At least I am not acting foolishly enough as to eat all of these things as if I now have everything I ever dreamed because you don't. You are letting these people play with you and manipulate you." "You know what…Hayley or whatever your name is, I don't need your advice alright? We may be partners for now but out there, we're each one for ourselves and I do whatever the hell I want." Josh said to me and I realized he was right. Why was I doing this? I should be worried about me and not him. This was about me!

In that second, the doors opened and Effie walked in and saw me with a grumpy look on my face and she was standing with a man who was not Haymitch. Oh no! How would I know if this guy is just as good as Haymitch? And wait a minute! "I would like to present Kieran! He has won for District 12 when he was only 13 years old. Can you believe it? Of course, he's 45 now…" Effie began and then looked down, sensing herself as a useless person. "Seeing as how your district is the farthest one away, it will take us a whole day to get there. So, take care and enjoy your time with your new mentor, Kieran!" Effie left before I could ask something. Kieran looked at me as though he was expecting a question. "I thought that Haymitch was the only one left to train us from District 12." Kieran nodded and sat down on a chair in front of us. "What is your name?" he asked me. "Hayley…Marshall." "Hayley, I am very sorry that this happened to you. I promise that I will try to help you the best I can now. Haymitch is taking a leave of absence and I know that you would have preferred him to train you but I can do just that. I am going to help you two. I have never been mentioned before by this district because of other issues." I nodded and took as seat as well as Josh was sitting next to me and rubbing his temples. "So…" I began but I saw Kieran walking around the place and taking some of those sweets, eating them himself. I watched him as he ate and I realized that no matter what I said at that moment, he would not pay attention. I growled and sat up and Josh looked at me in shock. I was getting angry because my life was at stake here and he was eating all of that fancy crap that I would never dare touch!

"Are you going to listen to me?" I asked him angrily. Kieran turned towards me and nodded. "Of course I am going to be listening to you. Just give me a minute. We don't have to start right away." He told me and I got really angry. This is why I would have preferred Haymitch. He may have been an alcoholic, but I think he would have listened better. Josh didn't seem to mind at all his attitude. "You are supposed to be here and tell me what to do. You won this thing before! You have to tell me how to get out of this. I have a starving brother and sister to take care of." I told him and just mentioning them made my heart drop. Kieran looked over at me and said, "I would if you would sit down and realize what you're up against."

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**On The Train**

We were finally on that blasted train. Gora came over to us with our mentor. He looked very majestic and he was rich in gold. He gave us some pretty cool tips and then left so he could get some rest. I was now sitting in the main living room of the train where they actually had television and a screen flat TV with touch systems on the remote. Very classy. I liked it. I buttoned through the channels until I found the one that was talking about The Hunger Games. I was curious to know if they were going to say anything about the tributes, especially about him since he had volunteered to be in this all because of his father, who was not really his father.

Camille came over with a book and sat down next to me on the couch. She had her glasses back on and she was reading the book carefully. I looked over at her with my eyebrows raised and sighed. What was it with this girl and her reading? "Camille, if I wanted to be bothered, I would have asked Gora to come here and keep me company. She glared at me and asked, "So what, now you own the couch or something? Being near you doesn't really bother me but if it bothers you, maybe you should be the one to leave!" she snapped at me and went back to her book. "What's with you?" I asked her. "You shouldn't have been that mean to Caroline before we left. She was just trying to say goodbye to you in a nice way. You could have told her politely that you don't want to be with her anymore." I sighed and rubbed my eyes as the ones on television kept on saying some general things about the games, nothing specific. "Listen here, bookworm! I don't really need your advice on how to handle her alright? I told her a long while ago that we were through and she just doesn't seem to get it." "Maybe because she doesn't want to accept it. Maybe you haven't made yourself clear enough." Camille argued. I looked at her for a while and realized that neither this blonde was as smart as she claimed to be. I sighed and thought about how I would have to spend the rest of my time with her now. Why couldn't have Gora chosen someone else? Anyway, if Caroline would have volunteered like she said she would have, I would have killed myself before entering the games, no doubt about that.

At that moment, Gora entered with another plate of treats to give us. "Dinner is in an hour okay? Have fun you two!" she exclaimed and then before leaving she said, "Niklaus, you might want to switch to channel 2, you are all everyone is talking about." Gora told me with a wink and I did as she asked. I saw my face on TV and then a small video of the reaping from District 2 with none other than the presenter of The Hunger Games, Caesar Flickerman talking over the video about me. _"Niklaus Mikaelson, 17 years old, has chosen to be courageous this year and volunteer for the games even though the prestigious districts like 1 and 2 do not really recommend it, as it could affect the support given to him by his district. Let's not forget that Niklaus Mikaelson is in fact the son of the infamous Mikael Mikaelson who honored District 2 by winning when he was only 18 the 57__th__ Annual Hunger Games! That was exactly 20 years ago!" _

He put on the footage of Mikael winning The Hunger Games and I saw how he brutally killed every single child that stood in his way of winning. "Wow." Camille mumbled next to me. "Your father is a legend." She then said and I rolled my eyes. Flickerman continued talking. _"And what a surprise that both the oldest Mikaelson brothers are going to compete this year?" _I snapped. What did he just say? _"Elijah Mikaelson, the oldest son of Mikael Mikaelson, who lives in District 1 after their parents' separation, with his mother, Esther and his younger brother of only 16, Kol, has been chosen to participate this year as the male tribute of District 1 alongside the female tribute of District 1, Katherine Pierce." _I could believe my ears. Elijah was competing. I saw his face and I could barely recognize him. _"We are expecting quite the fight between the 2 siblings this year! Let us remember that due to Mikael Mikaelson's great performance in The Hunger Games, he was awarded greatly and the Mikaelson family is one of the most richest families in all of Panem. We eagerly await the confrontation between the two brothers!" _I switched the channel at that moment and Camille sighed next to me. "Why wouldn't they say anything about me? They mentioned the female tribute from District 1, but what about me?" I could barely think straight after what I've heard about Elijah participating.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**On The Train: Dinner**

Dinner was ready as expected and I could feel my stomach growling. I didn't want to starve myself, even though I felt stubborn enough not to take any of this food from the Capitol. This was food that they had stolen from us. Jake and Lucy were starving at home and I had all the food in this train that you could think of. I went to the dining room where Josh, Effie and Kieran were already eating silently. There was roast beef, turkey, lamb chops, banana and apple pies, fruits, sweet lemonade, and everything you could ever want over there, along with the sweets. Effie smiled when she saw me standing there and I was almost salivating. "Come in here, dear and eat up!" she called and Kieran and Josh but looked over at me. I sighed and entered the room. I knew that if I wasn't fed well, there was no way I could win The Hunger Games.

I was really hoping that I would get the chance to deliver some of this food back home to my family if I could, but I had a feeling that the people from the Capitol wouldn't let me. I sat down in the seat next across from Kieran, as Josh and Effie were sitting at each sides of the table. "I have just been having some talks with Josh about how you might like to find water out there, food and medicine, anything you might want. Would you be interested in hearing some tips from me?" Kieran asked me softly and I looked up at him. I actually believed that he wanted to help me so I nodded and let him show me whatever he wanted. He told me what I should be doing the moment that I stepped in the arena and how I was going to get sponsors. I nodded, understanding the same procedure that I had to go through as Katniss had. "You make sure to leave people out there with a good impression of your style and I promise you that everything is going to be okay. The only thing you need to work on is being more pleased that you're here. Act more excited!" Kieran told me and I nodded as I bit in the wonderful roast beef. It was something I had never tasted before and I tried eating easily and not stuff it down my throat like some homeless person seeing real food for the first time in my life, which was exactly my case. I looked over at Josh and it seemed that he was doing the same, after I had snapped at him.

"What am I facing?" I finally asked Kieran and he took the remote control from Effie and turned the TV from the dining room on to channel 2 where the one and only presenter of The Hunger Games, Caesar Flickerman was speaking. He showed a man who looked like he was 17-18 years old. "The tributes from District 1 and 2, the Career Tributes. They attend a special academy until they're 18 and they volunteer to participate. This one here is the son of Mikael Mikaelson. Have you heard of this Mikael Mikaelson?" I nodded. I knew all about his family and how he won The Hunger Games, making his family the wealthiest and the most respected family by the Capitol. _"Niklaus Mikaelson, 17 years old, has chosen to be courageous this year and volunteer for the games even though the prestigious districts like 1 and 2 do not really recommend it, as it could affect the support given to him by his district. Let's not forget that Niklaus Mikaelson is in fact the son of the infamous Mikael Mikaelson who honored District 2 by winning when he was only 18 the 57th Annual Hunger Games! That was exactly 20 years ago!"_

I sighed and shook my head at this handsome young man who would volunteer for such a thing. "His sons are all jerks! I heard Mikael's daughter is the only one who is a bit okay but she can be a snob as well." Josh told me as he looked at this Niklaus Mikaelson's face with disgust on his face. "So, the problem with Career Tributes…" I began as Kieran closed the TV. "…is that they win this thing every year. Well, almost every year because they know what they're facing and they are trained since they are little by the Academy." Kieran finished. "Yes, but isn't this illegal?" I asked. "It is but the Capitol permits it since Districts 1 and 2 are their favorites." Kieran explained. "So, I say that you better get well trained so you can beat them. I am going to guide you and please rest assured that I know what I am doing. I may not be Haymitch but…I really can help you." Kieran said and I nodded with a smile. This was exactly what I needed. Someone skilled enough to help me get home to my little brother and sister. I wondered what they were doing right now. I gave them money so they wouldn't starve and I knew that Jake was a smart kid and he and Lucy would both be okay without me.

My room was very nice. Effie was right. You couldn't feel at all that you were moving. She came over to me and showed me my wardrobe from where I could choose to wear whatever clothing I wanted. I chose the simplest pajamas and touched the wonderful bed and the soft material. I had never slept in something like this before. "Goodnight. Sleep well and know that will be arriving at the Capitol tomorrow morning at 10 AM." She told me with a small smile and was about to head out when is topped her. "Hey, thank you." I whispered. I didn't know why but I felt as if she really needed that. She smiled at me and then left. Before I could go to sleep, there was another knock and I opened the door. Josh was standing there. "Hi. Can we talk?" he asked and I nodded, showing him in. He looked around the room, not really impressed. "Mine's the same." he said with a small smile. "What do you want?" I asked. "I just came over to say I'm sorry for what happened between us earlier today. I didn't mean to be such a jerk. I was still very much overwhelmed that I was chosen and…" "I understand, Josh. I am sorry I acted like that too."

"So, you have siblings, right?" he asked me and I nodded. "Jake, 12 and Lucy, 10." I whispered and he nodded. "God bless them." he whispered and I thanked him for that. "What about your parents?" "My father died when Lucy was born and my mom left us when I was 12 because she couldn't bear to risk seeing us in The Hunger Games." "So she just left?" I nodded. "Rough. I'm sorry." "What about you?" "No siblings. I just have an overprotective mother and my father is a coalminer. I think they're both grieving right now." I nodded. It felt nice to talk to him. He was easy to talk to. Maybe we could end up being very good partners after all. Josh stayed there looking awkward with his hands in his pocket before he said, "Right, maybe I should go. Um…I'll see you tomorrow at breakfast." he said and I nodded, smiling a little. He was a good person, after all. "Goodnight!" he called out to me. "Goodnight, Josh!" I answered.

**A/N: So, tell me what did you think of this? Klaus and Camille are the tributes I have chosen for District 2 and for District 1 are Elijah and Katherine. What do you think Katherine is hiding from Elijah and what do you think will happen now that they are in the games together? What do you think of Caroline? Hayley first saw Klaus on television and already has a bad impression of him because of his district and his family. What do you think of the Hayley and Josh friendship? Do you think it will last? Review please and tell me what you liked or disliked about this chapter. **


	5. Welcome To The Capitol

**I suppose a lot of things happened in the last chapter. It was a very long one and I tried to cut some parts of the story as to not make it so long. We have our tributes but that's not all. Once we reach the Capitol, we will get to know other tributes from other districts as well, don't you worry about that. I just wanted to focus on Hayley and the Mikaelsons for now. **

**In this chapter, Hayley and Josh will experience things at the Capitol they've never experienced before and it's going to be a long ride to see what will happen before the real competition begins. The main characters haven't even met yet. There is a long way to go before the actual Hunger Games. I will keep in mind the pairings you gave me. **

**Thank you for reading and please leave me reviews! It really helps me get inspiration and motivation to write :)**

**D****istrict 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Next Morning**

There was something new and odd about the smells and the sounds and my bed felt way too comfortable. I opened my eyes and I looked out the window. I was in a train and I was moving. I immediately stood up and looked around, my memory finally coming back to me. I was on the train that would take me to the Capitol. I took in a deep breath as I examined the perfectly good clothes on me. The material was so soft. I had no idea clothes like these even existed. The wardrobe was open and there were so many outfits to choose from. The bed was perfectly well shaped and it looked absolutely gorgeous and rich in colors. The whole room did actually and this was just something on the train. I wondered what would happen when we would arrive at the Capitol. I was chosen as my district's tribute along with Josh. I looked at the clock and it showed that it was exactly 9 AM. Effie told me that at 10 AM, we would be arriving at the Capitol. I sighed and grabbed a good pair of clothes, getting out of the room.

To my surprise, Josh's bedroom door was wide open and he was already at breakfast. He didn't look like much of a sleeper. As usual, Effie, Kieran and Josh were having breakfast together. I entered the room and sat down at the table with them. "Once again, you manage to be late, just like you were last night for dinner." Kieran commented with a small smile as I sat down. I smiled back at him and put some of that good butter on toast and started eating. Just because I hadn't eaten this kind of food before, that doesn't mean that I had no idea how to eat. "I am excited to see the Capitol. I've heard so many things about it and seen it on TV." Josh exclaimed and offered me a smile too. I thought that he was speaking to me this time. "I suppose." I mumbled. I was not excited to be going there, the place filled with people that have killed other innocent children with these games and many more will follow them to the grave this year. I hated them especially that president of theirs. "Come along now! Eat up the lot of you. We have a very big day ahead of us." Effie exclaimed and I nodded, decided to listen to her as she knew best. Getting there with an empty stomach was not in the plans.

"Don't get too excited, Josh. It won't be what you expect. They will be gullible to you and they will try to sweeten you up but what they're really after is completely different. Every person in there has at least two faces and they will want to test you, they will follow your every move. Once you're there, you are under their control. They can do whatever they want with you. You have to resist until the games when it comes to publicity. You will be shown on television almost every night so don't go around doing something that you fear will cost you sponsors or even your life." Kieran informed him and then looked at me. "Now, I know that boys may be interested in alcohol and I am warning you, Josh…" "Yes, I got the message." "…but you are different, Hayley." "Because I am a girl? What could I possibly do?" "Just don't let yourself be influenced or fall for someone's charms. It won't end well for you." I shook my head. "I am not that kind of girl, Kieran. You don't know me at all." I whispered.

Breakfast turned out to be quiet afterwards and things between all of us were solved very easily but once again, Jake and Lucy came into my mind. I shouldn't be having a good time with these people. As long as I was here, I was to act as emotionless as possible. My mother told me when I was younger that you feel less pain that way. She knew from past experience I suppose when my father died. "I hear that you used to have a job, Hayley." Kieran whispered and looked at me, confused. "I was allowed, yes. With the new rules and everything…especially since our mother abandoned us and our father is dead. My brother and my sister needed special care and as the eldest, it was my responsibility." I whispered. "Are they in good hands right now? Who did you leave them with?" I shook my head. "With no one. We have no one. No relatives." I whispered and continued eating, mostly enjoying the homemade bread. "I see…"

"Would it be possible for me to send some of this delicious food to them?" I asked. Kieran shook his head. "A lot of tributes tried this before. It's not permitted. Only the tributes are allowed such fame and nourishment because whether you like it or not, you will need good food in training." "Training?" "You didn't honestly think that you are going out there without days of actual training right?" Kieran asked surprised and Josh looked at me as if I've grown another head.

"Oh, we are finally here." Effie said, looking at her watch. I looked out the window and got up from the table, same as Josh. We had finally entered the Capitol and there were people, very colored people cheering for us. "What are we supposed to do?" Josh asked. "Do what you must. Smile at them and socialize. Act very excited and act strong in front of them. They are your fans after all and they plan on getting to know you better for the next few days that you'll be here before entering the arena for The Hunger Games." Kieran explained. I watched them all how they were smiling and looking like they were the happiest people on Earth that we have finally arrived. "So we are supposed to just suck up their love and friendship for the next couple of days? What if I don't want to? These people look so shallow." I commented, crossing my arms over my chest. "Well, let's put it this way. If you don't, you won't get sponsors meaning that no one will root for you to win, meaning that you will be the most likely one the die in less than one hour in that arena, meaning that you will never get to see your brother and sister again, meaning that you will leave them alone and starving meaning you breaking your promise to them that you are going to be there for them." Kieran said rather quickly. I sighed and realized how right he was. Katniss was never known as a very sociable person but she looked amazingly friendly on television from what I remembered. Maybe this really was just an act after all to survive. I could do the same thing, as Kieran proposed but it would be very difficult.

The train stopped and Effie made us come with her to the exit. "Do not worry about the rest of the things on the train. They will be brought to you very soon." She told us and we followed her. People were yelling and screaming excitedly once we stepped out of the train. They weren't allowed to touch or speak to us yet and I couldn't care less. I didn't care about giving them a smile of mine now. All I cared about was finding a way out of this place so that I could go back home. Josh was doing the exact opposite in fact. He was trying to get people's attention even though Effie was trying to get him to move along with her and ignore the crowd for now. Josh must have been really desperate to get these sponsors that Kieran was talking about. "Just keep going, Hayley." Kieran was whispering to me behind me and I nodded.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Next Morning**

I found myself sitting on the sofa to my new room at the Capitol. We had arrived yesterday pretty quickly and I had immediately gone to watch what these people on television were saying about the tributes. Most importantly, I was looking to find the District 12 tributes. I knew very well why. I had to keep myself focused and focused on them to avenge Cato and Clove. It had been 3 years but the agony that I couldn't do anything in that time really haunted me. All they were doing was praising Districts 1 and 2 for their amazing effort to maintain the peace and we were praised for our loyalty to the Capitol, therefore, we were filled with riches. Everyone knew that. I smirked as I saw my face appear once again and my brother's face too, but not as often as mine. The Mikaelsons were the most popular loyal family to the Capitol and I was proud of that. Camille came in at that moment and again sat down on the couch beside me. I had no idea what I was doing that made it so damn interesting to her.

"What are you doing? Still watching yourself on television?" she asked me with a smirk. "Why do you ask? Are you jealous that you don't appear?" I asked her and she smiled and shook her head. "You are so full of yourself." "You're not the first person to tell me that, Bookworm." I whispered. She snapped her book shut. I think that I finally managed to hit a nerve. "You really are a jerk you know that? The only blonde that you seem to respect is your sister. You didn't respect Caroline and you sure as hell don't respect me." Camille said and I sighed. "You can wish to be the kind of woman that can survive in the games but you're not and I hold no respect for people who just come here to make me look bad." "Make you look bad? I am perfectly capable of looking out for myself out there. Take a hike, Klaus!" "You take a hike, sweetheart and realize that the most you'll be able to do is hit someone in the head with that book of yours." I told her with a devilish smile, knowing that I really pissed her off. She finally stood up and looked at me. "You know what, I came here because our mentor recommended us that even though we don't like each other, we can at least try and be partners and look out for one another in the games." "Sorry but I don't partner up with people like you. If I am going to get myself allies out there, I am going to do it my way and not because I am supposed to be stuck with you. Face it, Camille, you don't stand a chance." I told her and she huffed. "Oh yeah, we'll see about that! When you're in danger, don't you dare call out for me to help you out because I won't!"

Gora came into the living room at that moment and put her hands on her hips. "You should not be treating her like that. Whether you like it or not, you are her partner in the games. Districts 1 and 2 don't operate like the other districts do, remember that. You are all going to be sticking together out there." She explained and I shook my head. "In case you haven't heard, the male tribute from District 1 happens to be my oldest brother, Elijah whom I haven't seen in years and we loathe one another since we were born. There is no way in hell I wish to lay eyes on him, much less partner up with him." I told her and she scoffed. "I am going to talk to Camille. And you should know that we should be taking both of you to the salon instantly to get cleaned up." I shrugged. "What's the point? I took a shower." "It's more than that, boy! You will be appearing on television for the whole period of The Hunger Games and as a Career Tribute, you need to look splendid and so does Camille. Go ahead and get dressed. You're coming with me."

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**The Next Morning**

We have arrived at the Capitol in about an hour the other day and I had seen my brother on television. He was the most praised, being a Career Tribute who finally had the courage to volunteer for the games. I knew what he was up to. He wanted to avenge his tributes, and he was acting just as repulsively about this as Katherine was. I couldn't believe that she was right here with me. She had barely spoken to me and went straight to bed, choosing to sleep quite a lot. We got the apartment on the first floor, being from District 1. The view wasn't that great. It would have been majestic had we been put at the penthouse but that was where the tributes from District 12 would be staying. They must have arrived this morning, being the furthest one away from the Capitol, literally and figuratively speaking.

Katherine came out of her room and I looked at her a bit worried. "What do you want, Elijah?" she asked me immediately even though I hadn't done anything but look at her. "What is going on with you? How many times do I have to ask you?" She just shook her head. "Nina says that we have to get to the salon to do us a complete makeover for this blasted television show. You should get ready." She wanted to leave but I stepped right in front of her face. She smirked at me, that smirk that I used to love when we were dating. "What is it, Elijah? What do you want from me? Do you want us to pick a fight before The Hunger Games have even started?" "Do not play with me, Katerina. Not this time. I am asking you to tell me what is going on. You have been praying for a lifetime to get in The Hunger Games and avenge your friend. What happened now? Why aren't you excited that your dream came true?" She looked at me like I'd grown another head and that was bothering me even more. I didn't mind this side of Katherine. I accepted her for who she was but sometimes, she could be a little too cruel.

"Katerina, listen to me! Whatever it is, I can help you." "No, you can't and you shouldn't, really because I think that right now you have bigger problems to deal with and by that, I mean your brother, Klaus. You are competing against him this year, remember? Focus on that and don't focus on me that much." Katherine told me and turned her head where Nina was there with our mentor watching us. "Let's get to work! We have some real grooming to do, not that you really need it, being from the best and richest District and all." Nina said with a sweet smile. "I can groom myself, Nina." "Nonsense, Katherine. You will be taken care of. You know that you have the Tribute Parade tonight. You need to look your best." "And what of our costumes?" I asked her. "I don't know. That will be up to your stylist but I don't think that there will be much change from any other years. You will most probably be wearing the same glamorous pink furs that represent royalty, dignity and the wealth of District 1." Nina told us. "I like pink, but maybe I can make a few suggestions to the stylist to add some black to it." Katherine said and looked back at me. "Shall we?" she asked. She held out her hand and I took it, trying to be polite and led her out of our room, with our mentor and Nina following.

We had been washed in some machines and taken care of so that we looked very stylish. "That's wonderful! He's glowing!" Nina exclaimed with a smile as he watched me. I got myself out of the bath and I couldn't believe the way they were handling me as if I was in fact a woman, with manicures and pedicures… "Is this really necessary?" I asked Nina and she smiled. "Only the best for my 2 tributes. It's a television show, darling. It's supposed to be this way. You need to look your splendid." She told me and at that moment, I saw Katherine getting out of the bath and she was glowing, breathtaking…beautiful. I gaped at her as she made her way to get her nails done and she glanced at me with a small smile, a genuine smile this time. I began to realize why I had fallen in love with her years ago. I loved her still and she could never understand that. I also couldn't help but think a lot about what she said to my brother. I would be fighting against him. I would have no choice and we were both Mikaelsons who had to honor the family name. Our stylist sighed. "Alright, there is nothing more I can do to you. I will have to think of costumes for tonight though so we'll keep in touch. You're free to go now."

"I am so glad we have this salon made especially for us. I could have used a lot more pampering but I guess it's enough for one day. So what would our costumes be like?" Katherine asked our stylist and he shook his head. "The regular, I guess. It's supposed to be something that would represent your district and I guess we will stick to the pink fur." "Then make sure to add just a little tiny detail to it." Katherine replied. "What?" "A little more black for cunningness." I smiled at her this time. She was exactly the same old Katherine that I remembered.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Salon**

I couldn't believe that I was doing this. It wasn't necessary at all, but they were supposed to make me look good on TV so I wasn't complaining that much. Camille, on the other hand, was complaining that they didn't get her hair right or her nails or whatever the hell she wanted. This time, even Gora was rolling her eyes at her. She was being too picky for a girl like her, not a step away from my ex-girlfriend, Caroline. I sighed and rolled my eyes. They were all the same. "It's just the tribute parade." I groaned at her and shook my head as she was looking over the manicures and pedicures. "Yes, and I need my make-up all done, if I am going to get people to sponsor me. Don't you know how it goes?" Camille snapped at me and I smirked. It wasn't like I needed to try. I could easily throw them a dashing smile and I would win more sponsors than her.

"Our theme of the district has always been masonry so you are going to wear those golden and special Roman themed armors, alright?" The stylist told us and I grinned. I kind of liked the idea even though Camille didn't seem to enjoy it. "District 1 always has that pretty pink fur costumes. Why can't we?" she complained. "Because that is not our theme, don't you hear? Luxury is their theme and even though we are pretty rich ourselves, we have a different theme and we stick to the Roman Armors whether you like it or not." I snapped at her and she turned away from me as the people there were still making her pedicures. "Alright, I think we have enough complaining. Your mentor will explain to you what you need to do the minute that you go out there for the first time and you're being shown to the world." She might have said some other things but I wasn't paying any attention. All that perfume in the salon was making me sick. "I need some air." I told Gora and headed for the door and outside the salon.

I was finally seeing with my own eyes the tributes that I wanted to inspect. The tributes from District 12 were being led by the Capitol woman and their mentor towards the salon. The boy who was representing District 12 didn't pose much as a threat. He looked skinny and weak and from the look on his face when he saw the salon being this big, he was to be considered very stupid. "Piece of cake." I whispered to myself when I thought about how easy it would be to kill that guy to avenge the death of the other tributes from my past. Then, my eyes went over to the girl. She looked to be about 16 years old and she was looking around, very amazed by what she was seeing but only her eyes showed that. Her mouth was straight and she looked serious. Whether I liked to think that way or not, she was in fact beautiful, no doubt about that. Her thick and glorious brown hair would make that happen and her piercing green like emerald eyes. "Hmm." I thought as I watched her. She didn't look like much of a threat either, despite her looks that could kill anyone, but then again I didn't consider the shy girl, Katniss Everdeen, much of a threat either and she turned out to be the victor along with her partner.

They were moving fast and I realized that it must have taken them quite a while to get here, a whole day by train, I believed. Then, the girl's eyes met mine and she frowned slightly as I turned my direction to something else out there. She frowned at me as if she recognized me from somewhere. I sure as hell didn't know her, but there was something odd about her as I watched the Capitol woman and the mentor lead both of them into the salon. There was indeed something captivating and mysterious about this girl. Nevertheless, I had to keep reminding myself that she was Katniss' successor and she should be considered by the Careers the main enemy. I knew that I would see her soon and I would have to find out what she's up to and what she's capable of. At that moment, Camille came out with her hands on her hips. "Just so you know you are wanted back inside, now!" she told me with a smirk and I smirked back. "What do you want from me, Bookworm?" I asked her. "First of all, I need you to stop calling me that. I have a name and secondly, I want to be your partner. Is that so much to ask?" "Alright, fine! I'll be your partner in this." Camille was smiling up at me and whispered, "Good to know." Before she winked at me and turned back to the salon. I rolled my eyes. What was that about?

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Salon**

"What is going on here?" I whispered as I saw so many different people with colored hairdos and covered with makeup were waiting for us. "We are running out of time, my dear and we are already behind schedule as we are the last team to arrive here at the Capitol. Tonight, you know what will happen. There is a Tribute Parade in which you will go out on chariots and you will be presented to the world, to all the people of the Capitol, including the President and the people at home who watch our television show. "So, you are going to groom us or something?" Josh asked and smiled as he looked around. "Please remember why we are here, Josh." I told him in a whisper. "So what? You think that just because my life is in danger that I am just going to stop enjoying it? I don't mean to say anything, Hayley but you have some issues." Josh told me and I shrugged. Maybe I did but I sure as hell was the only one thinking clearly around here.

"Okay, if the 2 of you are going to stop bickering, you should know that Effie and I have some business to attend to so we are going to leave you in the hands of our professional stylist, Rona!" Kieran introduced us and then they left. Cinna was the one I was hoping to see but I remembered that he was killed during The 75th Hunger Games. This girl was also African American and she didn't look very friendly. "Alright, we'll start off with showers and long hours of scrubbing in places you could never imagine. It would have been easier had I had the ones from Districts 1 and 2. They're the cleanest people I have seen in ages." Rona commented. "Because they have money given to them by the Capitol because they're their favorites." I told her and she looked at me in shock of the way I was speaking but didn't seem to mind. "Well, you're right about that but don't let other people hear you say that." she whispered with a smile. We got put in showers, my hair was brushed and my eyebrows were arranged, I was waxed everywhere for the first time in my life. "Ahh!" I yelled out when she waxed my second leg. "Oh my goodness, girl. Where do you two live? With rats or something? You're both going to need a lot more of washing before we even begin with the makeup." Rona said and that bothered me.

"So, what are our costumes going to be like? Are we going to ride out there in flames like Katniss Everdeen?" Josh asked with a goofy and excited smile. Rona shook her head sadly. "Listen, kids, if I am going to help you out on this one, you need to understand something. Cinna was one of the best stylists on the planet and Katniss was sure as hell lucky to have him, but I am not him alright and I can't do as much as he did and so flames are out of the question." "Why? They're just fake flames but they don't need to know that." Josh argued but I gave him a stern look. "So, what can you do for us?" I asked. "Dress you up as coalminers, what your district represents." Rona told me simply. I knew just how boring that was going to be.

It couldn't happen at all. Kieran had told me that I needed to show everyone my style to get sponsors. Coalminer costumes sure as hell wouldn't do that. "Dress us up in silver." I finally told her. She looked at me kind of shocked. "What does that mean? What does that represent?" she asked me. "It symbolizes peace and justice." I told her and she softened when she thought of it. "Just silver? I can't let you go out there just in silver. You need something else added to it. It's too plain that way." She then thought for a moment and nodded. "I heard on the news that there would be a full moon tonight. It's perfect. I know what to do. Leave it to me."

That night, we were out there and Rona was hoping that she would make us stars. Josh and I were both dressed up in sparkling silver costumes and she did well to put us good makeup on. I felt so different and on one part, I loved being dressed up like this but on the other part, I needed to think about Lucy and Jake and what I would need to do to survive The Hunger Games. Rona was standing with us near our chariot as the other stylists were standing with their tributes. Rona finally pulled out a box and spread some hot liquid on us. "What are you doing?" Josh asked. "Just trust me. Keep the liquid on and don't freak out once you get out there." "What's going to happen?" I asked. Rona smiled. "The moon will reflect on you and it will make you shine the way you never expected. You will certainly get the crowd's attention with this." I smiled at her and whispered, "Thank you, Rona." "Don't thank me. It was mostly your idea. You wanted it to represent peace and now everyone will know exactly what you're talking about."

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Tribute Parade**

I was not dressed up in the same old and gold roman costumes that every tribute from District 2 has worn in its history. Camille had complained about why we couldn't wear something new. With her geek routine, there was no way in hell that it would be easy for her to get sponsors. She needed a perfect costume for tonight, and it wasn't like she got it. All I would need to do was wave and flash a couple of smiles to get attention. I was a Career Tribute. Everyone would bet on me instantly. I was standing there, proud and tall as I looked over at the other tributes. I finally eyed my brother. Elijah. I hadn't seen him in a very long time. He was looking good and strong and so was the female tribute with him, Katherine or something from what I heard on television. I didn't know what I was going to do about my brother. I didn't even know if he saw me and I couldn't care. We would settle this in the arena when the time came.

Looking over at the other tributes some more, I finally spotted the ones from District 12. The stylist was explaining something important to them because otherwise, they wouldn't have been listening this closely. I couldn't stop looking at that female tribute from 12 though. She had a beautiful smile on her face and finally hugged her stylist which I took as in complete shock. It wasn't like she had done her a favor. She was doing this because she had to. "What do you keep staring at?" Camille asked, glancing at the tributes from District 12. "Ah, I see! This is about avenging the former District 2 tributes, right? Don't worry. You'll get your chance soon enough. Honestly, when I look at that girl from a distance, I can say that she looks exactly like Katniss Everdeen to me. Can't wait to slip my claws into her hair." Camille was giggling but I wasn't paying attention. I was still looking at her and admired what she was wearing. "Doesn't seem like they are dressed up as coalminers and I don't see any of that flame." I told Camille. She scoffed. "It's a little pathetic if you ask me. They're not even dressed according to their district. They should be coalminers. The public will surely disrespect them for not representing their district properly like we are." Finally, I shook my head and looked away from them.

The parade had begun and the people were surrounding the place, waiting excitedly for us to appear. All the tributes have boarded their chariots and were assembled in line according to district and waiting to be given the cue to enter and start with all that waving and smiling crap for sponsors. "Don't try and mess this up for me." Camille whispered as she finally got up on the chariot next to me. "How could I mess this up?" "I don't know. Just don't do it. You have a very good chance of getting sponsors and this might be my only chance. Don't ruin it for me." "Thanks for the warning. I will try not to keep that in mind." I said with a smirk at her. Before she could respond, came the countdown and we were set off to enter the arena on our chariots. The doors were wide open and we could hear people screaming, throwing red roses and clapping at us. My brother and Katherine were right in front of us wearing those horrid fuchsia fur costumes. They were both waving calmly at the crowd with small smiles. Then came me and Camille who did the same thing. Well, my partner added some air kisses and huge laughs to back her up. It still didn't seem to help her that much. I did my best and flashed that smile of mine across the place and people were blowing me kisses in fact.

Finally, after we had moved a while, there were sounds much louder when the tributes from District 12 made their appearance. They were showed on screens as they laughed, smiled and waved at the crowd, holding their hands up in victory just as Katniss and Peeta had done with their flames, only this time, these 2 were shinning the way it would make your eyes burn. I looked up in shock as I saw the full moon reflecting upon them. "Oh my God! They can't do that!" Camille was saying as she looked up at the moon and the way it was reflecting only the tributes from 12. "Apparently they can." I whisper and looked back and caught the girl's eyes from a distance. She was beautiful now glowing with the moon in silver. _"You know, silver is in fact a very promising color that symbolizes peace, freedom and the calm moon at the same time. Do you think these 2 young tributes are trying to send everyone a message? Anyway, the stylist from District 12, even if she is not our lovable Cinna, God Rest his Soul, has really done a fabulous job of impressing us!" _I could hear none other than Caesar Flickerman saying that over the radio that could be heard by everyone out there. They only filmed those 2 and almost completely forgot about the rest. _"Once again. District 12 manages to outshine the others."_

We all stopped once we reached the ending of the way and we looked up to see President Snow standing there with a grin as he saw us. There was something about him that I hated even though he has done a lot of good to my family. "Welcome! I welcome you all!" he exclaimed into the microphone with a smile and rounds of applauses could be heard from everywhere. "I welcome you, our tributes who have come here, chosen and destined for greatness to show us the true meaning of courage, bravery and sacrifice! Happy Hunger Games…and May the odds be ever in your favor!" he declared and then he waved goodbye as the chariots were taken out of the arena, announcing the end of the parade. "Are you kidding me? That was it? What am I supposed to do now? Grr, those blasted tributes from 12 are going to pay for this. They completely outshone us. Are you just going to stand like this and do nothing?" Camille was speaking to me. The stylist had helped us out of our chariots and I was still looking at the tributes from 12, especially at that emerald eyed girl. There was something about her… "Well, are you going to do something? We're partners in this, Klaus and you have to help me!" I nodded as I continued to look at those 2 from a distance. "Oh, I will do something…but at the right place and at the right time." I told Camille and she seemed to have calmed a little.


	6. Shinning Like A Star

**What did you think of the last chapter? I think I did pretty well the characterization of each new character and I can assure you that we will get to know more characters now in this chapter as the training for The Hunger Games will soon begin. Elijah and Katherine will get to talk about one another's problems, as Klaus and Hayley will be seeing each other more often but not exactly meet yet. We have some way to go until then. **

**Josh is going to get himself into some trouble and he will be getting more negative attention than he deserves, especially from Hayley. You will see what I mean. Kieran won't be pleased with his ideas and Josh will cause more trouble for them all. **

**As some of you asked, this chapter is also going to show what happens with the characters left at home in their districts like Hayley's brother and sister, Jake and Lucy. We will also get to see from District 1 the impressions of Esther, Kol, Elena and Tatia. While in District 2, we will explore more of the father-daughter relationship between Mikael and Rebekah. Fasten your seat belts, because this chapter will be a blast. **

**Thanks for reading and when you're done, please leave me a review with your thoughts and ideas about where this fanfiction is going. Thank you very much for this!**

** District 2: Hayley Marshall**

** After The Tribute Parade **

The parade had ended quicker than I expected and I noticed how smug President Snow looked down on us. He knew that he would have the greatest pleasure of sacrificing 23 of us by the end of the games. All because of our stupid history, 23 people had to die every year. Rona did a great job at putting our costumes in the center of attention. It didn't really represent our district but Josh loved them very much and so did everyone else. I stepped out of the chariot and Josh followed after me. "Did you see that?" Josh asked with a grin on his face as Effie and Kieran stepped forward. Kieran nodded. "Yes, I did. But don't get your hopes up. There are many more steps to follow before you can even hope to get sponsors. This is just the time where you created their first impression of you. They'll follow you through your training and inspect you closely before they'll start betting. You won't get sponsors that easily. I hope you can understand." Kieran told us and he looked deep into my eyes when he finished. I nodded, understanding very well now that to survive, I had to get the crowd's attention. "Hayley, you did great, my darling." Effie pulled me into her arms and hugged me tightly. "I hope we didn't go over the top." I whispered and looked over at the other tributes from other districts.

"They might as well be jealous." Josh mumbled under his breath but Kieran cut him off. "You really wouldn't want something like that." "Why not? Why do we care?" Josh asked, stubbornly. "Because the more enemies you make here, the harder it will be for you to survive out there. I think Hayley understands this, but you don't seem to get it." Kieran told him and Josh finally took back his words. I looked over at the dress I was wearing, never feeling anything like this. "So…I think that we should be going now." Effie finally whispered and grabbed my hand. I looked around at the other tributes near me and then caught someone's eye. I recognized him at once as the Career Tribute from District 2, Niklaus Mikaelson. I remembered seeing him on television on the train here. I growled a little as I thought of his family and what his father is known for doing. The whole Mikaelson family practically belonged to the Capitol.

His eyes met mine and he looked like he was studying me closely. His partner was a young and blonde woman who looked like she was ready to rip people's heads off. All the people from Districts 1 and 2 were the same. No one could be any different. They were known for choosing to be here, and killing other innocents without mercy. Frankly, I felt like I couldn't wait for me to get out there and show these people what I got…but I remembered how Kieran told me to be. I wasn't supposed to attract any negative attention towards me from the public, the Gamemakers or even the other tributes. I would have even less chances of getting out of this alive. "You must be tired, my dears. Let me show you up to the penthouse." Effie was saying and I finally looked away from the District 2 male tribute. "Penthouse?" I whispered in disbelief. "Yes. I thought you knew by now that each district gets their own floors. Remember that you are from District 12 so you will get the top floor which is none other than the penthouse!"

Great! I was staying in a marvelous penthouse while my brother and sister were starving at home. I couldn't feel guiltier than that. Josh put his hand around me. "I think that maybe we should talk." he whispered to me and I looked a little shocked at the way he was touching me. I nodded, anyways thinking that I might have gotten the wrong impression of things and entered the penthouse with him. Effie and Kieran followed behind and watched us gulp at everything we saw. We looked like we were rich celebrities. The finest silk and china everywhere and only the finest clothes staked in our closets. The dining room was huge, so was the bathroom with a Jacuzzi inside of it as well as our rooms which were really great and spacious. I touched everything I could even though it seemed weird. "Just think that this will all be yours for a couple of days!" Effie said, trying to sound excited. I didn't appreciate her enthusiasm, considering that Josh and I would soon be thrown in a lion's den, but I did like that she was offering me some optimism. I really needed that.

Rona came over to look at the place and she helped us out of our costumes. She had a sad look on her face but I smiled anyway. "I want to thank you again for what you've done for us. We wouldn't have managed to get this much attention if it weren't for you." I told her but she just shook her head. "You received too much attention. Too much is dangerous so be careful what you do around here before you get thrown in the arena. Don't do anything improper and don't disrespect the Capitol. In fact, don't even talk about the Capitol ways with anyone, do you understand?" She almost looked like she had tears in her eyes. I slowly nodded and she backed out of my room with my costume in her hand. Kieran came in after her and looked over at me. "I heard what she was saying. Are you alright?" he asked me and I just shrugged. "I think so…considering that I've just been warned by my stylist not to do anything wrong around here. I am not even sure what I am allowed to do and what I shouldn't be doing." I said to him and he made me sit down on my bed as he sat down with me. "I have a lot of faith in you, Hayley. You are a very beautiful and smart young woman and you could make quite an impression out there, you know. You have all the equipment you need. Now, you need to figure out how to use this equipment. Out there, act friendly with anyone. Anyone who comes forward and asks you questions, pretend to be excited and when you get the chance even thank the Capitol for everything they have offered you." I scoffed. "I can't stoop so low. Not after everything…"

Kieran stood up and closed the door to my room and then came back to sit down next to me. "I understand your fear, sweetheart. I really do. I understand that you hate the Capitol. To tell you the truth, I have never been a fan of it either. You have no idea the things I had to go through out there. They disgraced me because I wasn't considered as popular as Haymitch was. That is why, no one ever talked about me and no one even knew that I exist. I do exist, Hayley and I am here to help you in any way that I can." I looked down and understood. "I don't want you to feel the pain and misery that I felt during and after the games. I just know that you are going to survive. You are smarter than the majority of other tributes here. You have a great chance of winning. Don't let anyone discourage you. To win, you have to play by their games." I spoke up immediately. "Katniss never played by their games." "Don't compare yourself to Katniss here, sweetheart. Even if some people view you as her successor, don't you even dare, alright? You are Hayley Marshall, a different fighter. A future warrior. You are you and you won't be compared to others." I liked the way that sounded but… "I am not looking to become a warrior or a savior. I just want to get back home where I belong to care for Jake and Lucy. They need me. We are orphans." Kieran sighed and looked at his hands for a minute.

Then, he stood up and looked at me in the eyes. "Lucy and Jake Marshall from District 12? I will find them and…if…that is a big if, something happens to you…I will take care of them. I promise you, Hayley." I couldn't contain my happiness. He would take care of them. He did care. He was a good person. I got up from the bed and hugged him. "Thank you." I whispered and he hugged me back, setting me down. "So, you know what you need to do now, don't you? You saw what people were doing at the Tribute Parade and how they chose their favorites, correct?" he asked and I nodded. "Good. Now you find a way to continue that sort of charade while you are here. You will have many chances. And stay close to Josh. I advised him on that too. The best thing you two can do is stick together to survive out there the longest. And if you get the chance to ally with some other tributes, don't waste it." I understood and nodded. "But remember, Hayley…You trust no one, understand? No matter how good and nice they may seem at first, they can be the exact opposite on the inside, waiting to use your skills and intellect for their own gain. Don't trust any other tribute." "I understand." I responded. Finally, he smiled and left to the door, opening it. "Get ready for dinner. It will be ready in fifteen minutes."

No sooner did Kieran leave that Josh walked inside my room. "Hey, you needed to talk to me?" I asked him and he nodded. He stepped inside and closed the door. "Listen, I have been putting some thought into this whole publicity thing and I think that we should do more together." he told me and I frowned. "I don't really know what you mean." I responded and Josh sighed. "I think that we would attract a whole lot more attention if we were to go out there and pretend like we are a couple." he finally told me and my mouth practically dropped.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

** After The Tribute Parade**

We finished and got out of our costumes, handing them over to out stylist. Nina made us follow her to the hotel room on the first floor. It looked amazing and just like I picture it would be. "What is going on?" Katherine asked me when she saw that I was thinking about something else. "I miss my home, my mother and my brother. And today at the parade, I had the chance to see Niklaus, my brother whom I haven't seen for years since I moved to District 1." I responded. Katherine didn't know so much about my history. I hadn't had the chance of telling her. She put her purse down and faced me. "Look, Elijah…you got us into this. I don't care what we had in the past. It's over now and we're in the games. You better do something so we can win."

I couldn't believe what she was saying to me. "What do you mean that I got us into this? I did no such thing! We were chosen by chance. I did not volunteer and I didn't make you volunteer for this either." Katherine sighed and closed her eyes. "I know. I'm sorry I am talking like this. I feel…ill because of all of this. I don't think that I am going to make it, Elijah. I need help." Katherine insisted and cupped my cheeks. I was starting to see her again, the woman I had been in love with all this time. "Do you believe me?" she asked as tears started falling off her cheeks. I caressed her face in return and nodded. "We will get through this." I told her in a strong tone. "How are we going to do that?" I wanted to have a plan but…maybe I didn't.

At that moment, Nina stuck her head inside and announced that dinner was ready. As we sat down, we saw the food was more glorious than in our district. Everything was delicious, and everyone believed it was…except Katherine who was looking at the meal as if she was going to be sick. I put my hand on hers. "Are you alright?" I asked her and she shook her head, standing up and running to the bathroom, letting everything out. I followed her and saw what was happening. She was throwing up for some reason. "What is going on? Have they done something bad to the food? I will have the cooks reported for this! They can't make a tribute feel ill like this!" Nina screeched and went to make phone calls as I sat down in the bathroom with Katherine, holding her strongly. I could feel her shiver for a while but relaxed at my touch.

"I remember the way we used to talk about being tributes in The Hunger Games together. At that time, everything seemed to be very exciting. It's not exciting for me anymore and I have to do it. I guess you better be careful what you wish for." Katherine whispered to me and I shushed her, trying to get her to calm down. "I promise you that I can protect you. What about a doctor? Why don't I call in a doctor for you?" I asked her and she shook her head at once. "No! No doctor please!" she insisted and I frowned. She had never turned down a doctor before. She always needed to know how she stood with her health. "Why not?" "I just don't want them to start inspecting me. I need you here. Just you, Elijah, please." I smiled and kissed her forehead softly because I was starting to like the sound of that. She wanted me to be here for her and I would be here for her if she wanted me to. Katherine finally stood up as Nina entered the bathroom and looked at us, confused. "Are you two done? How are you feeling my dear?" she asked Katherine and she just smiled. "Never felt better in my life. I think I will skip dinner this time though. I am sure it's nothing, though." Katherine said in a good way. I was not very sure that she was alright and I was determined to find out more about this.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

** After The Tribute Parade**

"The second floor is all yours, my dears!" Gora said as she led us in the elevator. The hotel was big but it wasn't anything special. I was used to getting all of these goods back at home. I checked out my muscles and noticed how good they were in fact and how they would get better once the training starts. Camille looked worried as hell after what happened back there. "Why do they get the attention? What? Just because of that Katniss Everdeen?" she asked Gora shushed her. "Katniss Everdeen is in the past. The kids who are from 12 do not represent her. They represent themselves and they are not special at all. They are not Career Tributes." "But Katniss wasn't one either and yet she and Peeta managed to get the public on their side." Camille's arguing was pointless. The doors opened and we entered our hotel room. "I don't want to hear another word on the other tributes. They had luck! You have greatness because you're from District 2!" Gora insisted as she eyed the two of us. I growled at Camille.

"You have a few minutes to freshen yourselves up and then come to dinner." Gora said to us. I sighed and immediately picked out the left room which was wider and the bed looked manlier, as well as the balcony it had that led to the outside world. I liked to sit on the balcony at night and look up at the stars. It wasn't something that I would normally admit to anyone. I never told anyone except Rebekah about my usual likes or dislikes. Rebekah was always the only woman I could trust and count on. I felt I could always trust her with anything. What was she doing now? How was she coping with my disappearance like this? Was she getting along with Mikael? I always knew that Rebekah needed to be protected and I wasn't there anymore.

Camille stormed into my room and threw me a dirty look. "So what are you thinking of now? Are you thinking of a way to get the attention those brats from District 12 are getting back towards us?" she asked me with her arms crossed over her chest. "No. I am more trying to figure out a way to get you the hell out of my room. Who said you could come in anyways?" I asked her, getting away from the balcony and standing in front of her. To tell the truth, I wasn't planning on disrupting those tributes because there was really no reason for me to. They weren't good opponents and even though I had to admit that the girl from 12 looked intriguing, like a mystery waiting to be solved, I knew she would be no match for me either. What was the point of hitting your opponent when he was already down? I wasn't that cruel…not that I ever wanted to admit it to anyone…but Rebekah. Camille opened her mouth to say something but at that moment, Gora had called us for dinner. "Hurry up before it gets cold!" she exclaimed.

We were sitting there with our mentor and with Gora, eating up everything as we watched the television, which gave some news about the Tribute Parade that took place an hour before. _"The costumes were divine! And I have to admit that the way the tributes from District 12 were presented was not something that I ever expected! They looked amazing. Let's have a look at the footage once again." _Flickerman gave us the small video in which the tributes from 12 were presented. The moon shone on them, making their silver outfits more glamorous. _"What could possibly be that liquid? We must make sure to ask the stylist about it." _Camille's hand turned into a fist on the table as she ate. I continued to look closely at that girl who looked like she was having a good time, just like the boy next to her. Or maybe they were smart and got the message to act that way in public. Surely they couldn't be happy that they were sent to be slaughtered. Without any kind of warning, Gora picked up the remote and turned the TV off.

"What the hell?" I asked, without being able to stop myself and Gora frowned at me. "Language, Mr. Mikaelson. You may be your father's son but it won't be acceptable for you to start speaking that way around here. You must be proper and well-mannered." Gora was telling me and I mumbled. "I am not my father's son." It was true. I was not his son, not that anyone knew the truth, except me and my mother, whom I haven't seen in years. Luckily, no one at the table heard what I said. "So, what are you planning, Klaus?" Camille finally asked and I looked at her with question marks shown on my face. "I told you that you have to find a way for us to get publicity." "Well, I have no problem with that, love. I am a Mikaelson and I happen to be quite a charmer so lady sponsors will be plenty for me. As for you, Bookworm, I can't say the same." "Language." Gora mumbled at the table. My mentor turned towards me and said, "You and Camille are partners now whether you like it or not. I suggest that you start getting used to it. Help her to gain sponsors, Klaus." He told me and I rolled my eyes.

Camille looked at me sort of pleadingly. "Look, I know of your success out there and that is why I really need your help. You told me that you have it easy getting sponsors. If we are to be together in this, you need to help me gain sponsors too. I am just trying to survive here. Sorry if I seem too insecure." There was a minute of silence at the table and Camille was looking at me so I could give her an answer. "You know that there is only one winner right?" I finally asked and looked at her with a grin on my face. Camille scoffed and left the table at once. Gora was looking at me warningly. "What? She was asking for it. Everyone knows that there can only be one winner in this competition and that winner is going to be me!" With that, I finished eating and I left the table as well. I went back into my room and went out the balcony, looking up at the night sky. It was beautiful and calming for me. I liked to just stand there and think. There was only one winner in this competition, right? Yes, there was only one winner. I had to eliminate everyone else and make my family proud. But what of Elijah? I saw my brother for the first time in years today at the Tribute Parade and we completely ignored each other. I thought about going over to his room, talking with him. But then I remembered that I was talking about a brother whom I haven't seen in ages, a brother that could very well double-cross me and stab me in the back when I am not looking.

He could have changed for all I know. I couldn't trust him and I would make sure to not even interact with him, even in the days of training. I could actually hear Camille weeping in her room and I groaned. I was a bit too harsh but it was the truth. What was the point of all these alliances and all this help and support if you know that you don't stand a chance? You're just wasting your time and postponing your death. It doesn't change anything. At the end of the day, you die anyways. Not me. I made a promise to myself and to Rebekah that I would not die. I would survive. Whatever it took, I would survive and I would defeat everyone out there and even though Mikael was not my real father, I hoped deep down…that I would make him proud of me for once. And I felt I would be proud to wear the Mikaelson name at last. Slowly, I closed my eyes and let the wind blow against my face and I let myself hear the sound of crickets.

**District 1: Kol Mikaelson**

**The Night Without Them**

Maybe I was losing my head but after just one day, I could actually hear that night, my brother calling out for me and needing my help. Elijah was thrown in the games and I knew that there was a possibility that my family could lose him, but I trusted that he would make it. I knew that he would find a way to make it. There was a knock on the door to my room and a gorgeous girl with a sweet smile on her face walked in. It was none other than Elena Pierce herself. I had no idea what attracted me to her in the first place but something did. She was stunning and she had the most attractive lips I had ever seen. She was Katherine's twin, but ten minutes younger.

Her hair was straightened as always so people would not confuse her for Katherine. "How are you holding up?" she asked me and I shrugged, putting on that flirtatious smile on my face. "Elijah is Elijah. He'll find a way out. What about you? Do you think that your sister will make it?" I asked her about Katherine and Elena's smile disappeared as she sat down next to me. "She was keeping something from us for two months now. I could tell. I don't know if she is going to be alright…but I do know how Elijah still feels about her and he might protect her out there." Elena whispered and I shrugged. "You know that all's fair in love and war. There can only be one winner right?" Elena offered me a frown and stood up. "Wait!" I called out to her and held her hand. She looked at me a little offended and I let go of her arm.

I was never good with the ladies. They always had a way of treating me like the inferior one in a conversation. "I didn't mean it like that, darling." I tried telling her. "You are saying that my sister can die so that your brother can live?" "No. I am just stating the facts, alright. There is only one winner here. Katherine and Elijah can't win both. One of them will most likely fall if not both." The words that were coming out of my mouth hurt, especially for me to say them. Elena looked at me sympathetically for one moment and then whispered, "I am sorry that you have two brothers out there. It must be hard for you, Kol." I remembered seeing Klaus on television for the first time in a long time that day. My mother even flinched when she heard Father's name all over the news. It was horrible the way he had been treating her, which is why we had to move away. Tatia opened the door and let herself in. I never liked her much, especially since she had been trying to get it on with Elijah and hit on me multiple times. She was jealous that her younger twin sisters had more success in men. "Am I interrupting something?" she asked and Elena shook her head. "It's okay, Tatia." "Esther told me to tell you dinner is ready now."

Elijah told me that I had to be gentler with women if they were to show any sort of interest in me. I didn't want just any woman. I wanted Elena, Katherine's twin, but I didn't know how to persuade her. I had everything that a woman could want. I had my father's fame and the fortune he left for us and the protection of the Capitol as well as more goods from them. I had my life set out for me. With the way things were going, I didn't even think that I wanted to participate in the Hunger Games anymore and was hoping to get to stay here and try to win Elena over, as I always tried to do. It was hard for Mother to eat. She looked like she was about to throw up when they mentioned both Niklaus and Elijah on television and presented them as the _Legendary Rival Brothers, _just because they haven't seen each other since forever. The Tribute Parade looked promising and I could barely see all the tributes because of some light that shone on the last two. I knew both Elijah and Klaus had to be there in the front. Elena was looking at the television desperate to hear something about Katherine, while Tatia didn't even care if her sister lived or died. She may have figured she would have a chance with Elijah. That guy Flickerman started talking about our pop and Esther quickly turned off the TV.

**District 2: Rebekah Mikaelson**

** The First Night Without Him**

It was our first night alone since I can remember. "Father, dinner is ready!" I called out to him and he came almost at once. "Have you heard what these people are saying on the news? My boy is all around it. They barely say anything about Elijah. Ha!" I looked surprised at the way my father looked proud of Nik. He was never proud. "And let's not forget who his father is. The all-time champion of The Hunger Games. I won it and I won it brutally, Rebekah. That is the only way your brother is going to win it. Brutally!" he exclaimed and dug into his meat. I was a bit disgusted with the way he was talking about my brother. Niklaus was not my only brother. Elijah was my brother too and he was out there with Nik. Father didn't really care. Ever since our mother left, Father pretended that Kol and Elijah weren't even his own sons anymore.

Mikael finished his food and turned on the television where they showed the Tribute parade that apparently took place a couple of hours ago. I smiled as I managed to see Nik with Camille beside him in that chariot, dressed in roman warriors, all in gold and waving at the crowd. Niklaus had that smug look on his face and I knew that he was laying out the charm thick so that all the women would sponsor him and bet on him. He needed sponsors to win this whether he liked to admit it or not. Camille looked like she was desperate for attention. I sighed and shook my head as I watched her do her best to look lovable. This girl wouldn't make it out there for sure. I wondered how Nik was putting up with her. "Look at him out there! That's my boy alright!" Mikael exclaimed and grinned but his grin disappeared when we saw the images of the tributes from District 12 who looked like the full moon was shining down on them. They must have won a lot of popularity this first night. Mikael growled and said, "Who do they think they are to outshine a Mikaelson! I ought to call the people at the Capitol to set them straight."

"Father, stop! You promised me that you would not interfere with this! You promised me that you would soon enough step away from the Capitol." "The Capitol is our family, Rebekah. Everything you have, they gave it to you. We owe them our lives." Father growled at me, but I didn't think so. I knew that they were doing terrible things with The Hunger Games, killing innocent people, but I would never admit something like this to my father. I just responded, "Fine! But you should remember that I have another brother out there as well. I don't want Elijah to get killed." "He is not your brother anymore." "Why? Because Mother left you?" I knew that I had angered him a lot and tried to get myself out of this but it didn't work. There was a knock on the door and I went to get it immediately. I opened it and saw the one woman whom I was hoping to never see again after Nik broke up with her, Caroline Forbes.

She came inside with that sweet smile on her face. "How are the Mikaelsons doing this evening?" Caroline asked me, trying to move to the kitchen but I stepped in front of her with my arms crossed over my chest. "We were doing fine until you came along! Give it a rest already, Caroline! Nik broke up with you. Why can't you just leave this family alone?" "He did not break up with me. We are just going through a little bit of a rough patch." "Yeah, keep telling yourself that!" I told her and moved her towards the door. "Nicky and I will be back together soon! You'll see!" Caroline yelled out before I closed the door to her face. And this is why Nik decided to dump her. He did not like to be stalked and with Caroline around, he had no life at all. I was just hoping that he would finally find a girl to love him for him and not to be interested in him because he wore the Mikaelson name, because of his wealth and fame, like Caroline did. I smiled when I thought of Nik getting out of there soon and coming home to us.

**District 12: Jake Marshall**

**The First Night Without Her**

Lucy and I had watched the Tribute Parade together in our home on the hologram. Hayley looked absolutely beautiful and I was glad to see her happy. I missed that smile of hers when she used to tuck me into bed and kiss my cheek and then tell Lucy bedtime stories that she made up in her mind. She was a good sister. Scratch that! She was the best sister in the world. She cared for us more than anything in the world. We didn't know what we would do now without her. If she hadn't left us some money, we would have starved by now. My little sister came inside with a big chunk of cheese in her hands. She looked very frightened and told me to hide this chunk somewhere safe. I did as she asked and told her to get under the table. There were some people that passed our house, but ignored it and carried on.

"Did you steal this? What the hell where you thinking? Do you want to get us killed, Lucy? Hayley specifically told us to stay out of trouble." Lucy started trembling as she came over and hugged me. "I'm sorry. I was hungry." She whispered and I hugged her back. "You didn't have to do that, you know. We have the money Hayley saved up for us." Lucy shook her head. "No. We have to save that for the future. We have this cheese for dinner now. Let's eat and forget about everything else." She told me. I pulled the chunk of cheese out of the hiding place and some bread. We were about to say Grace and eat when there was a knock on the door. Lucy begged me not to answer the door but I did anyways and I couldn't believe who was standing there. She was a woman with long and blonde hair and she looked tired and hungry. I knew who she was. I hadn't seen her for 4 years and she changed a lot. "Mother?" I asked, shocked. Lucy came to the door and gaped at her just like I did. We haven't seen her for years.

Our mother had a small smile on her face and she looked very weak. "Would you let me in?" she asked me and I moved Lucy out of the way so she could enter the room. I didn't know what to think of this. Lucy started crying and hugged our mother, offering her the chunk of cheese to eat. Obviously, she needed it more than we did. "Your sister is in the games now, I see. My poor child." Our mother whispered but I wasn't impressed. "You have a lot of explaining to do. Why did you leave us? You told me that you would always be with us." "Yes, Jake. And I've always loved all of you. After losing your father when Lucy was born, I was afraid of the Hunger Games. I couldn't bear to watch my children get picked so I tried staying away from all the pain. I couldn't anymore. And now that I heard your sister has been chosen and there is no one that can care for you…" "You thought what? That you can come here and beg us for your forgiveness? You won't get one from me." "Jake!" Lucy suddenly snapped at me. I was surprised. Lucy was always too shy to do that. "Go and rest, Mother. We have a bed back there." Lucy whispered and kissed our mother on the cheek. "Thank you, sweetheart."

I turned towards Lucy once she left. "She cannot stay here!" I insisted and Lucy looked at me angrily. "She will be staying here because it is what Hayley wants." "How do you know what she would want? You're just a baby!" I snapped at her, childishly. She started ignoring me after that and went to tend to our mother. I wondered what Hayley was doing right now and if she missed us because we missed her terribly. What would she think of our mother being back home? I didn't like to think that she would be pleased about it.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

** Before Dinner**

I was shocked at what Josh was proposing. "Are you serious? Is this what you really want? You want us to appear as a couple in public?" I asked, not believing that Josh would think something like this. I didn't like it. I had never been with a man and I wouldn't start now, not when my life was at stake here and I needed to get back to Lucy and Jake. "This is the only way!" Josh was insisting but I shook my head, stubbornly. "I don't think so! I am not doing that, Josh! I don't want to act like we're in a relationship just for publicity!" I yelled at him that even Effie and Kieran heard what we were talking about. "Hayley, this is just a television show and this is exactly what the public would want. Josh is smart. He knows how things go here." "I don't care! I am not doing this! This is going beyond my limits!" I insisted.

The subject was closed as Effie invited us to dinner. I had a feeling that after that heated up conversation, Josh and I wouldn't look as tight as we used to look before. He looked like I was his only chance of surviving. I didn't want to fake something like this. For me, being in a relationship with someone you love is something to cherish. I didn't want to fake being in love with someone when I actually wasn't. Josh would soon enough understand. Kieran looked over at the TV which was turned on. "Louder." He whispered and Effie raised the volume.

Caesar Flickerman was talking to the Main Gamekeeper from this year. _"So tell us, what are you expecting this year?" _Flickerman asked him and the Main Gamekeeper grinned. _"What I am expecting this year? Show and action! That is what everyone in Panem wants and of course one victory, one victor, a representative of hope."_ This guy was so full of himself. Show and action huh? I would give him a piece of my mind. Killing innocent people was show and action to him? I clenched my fists on the table as I listened to more. _"Of course that is what we want! Do you think everything will be the same as it was before the second attack of the rebels in the 75__th__ edition of our games?" "What those people have done was a big mistake and that is why President Snow has chosen me this time, to make sure it doesn't happen again." "It's a shame! We lost some fine victors in that edition." "Like I said, this year, we get to keep everyone under complete control." _The interview ended with laughs and jokes and Kieran turned the television off. "I hope you heard all of that, right? What the Gamemakers want?" he asked and looked at me. I shrugged and said, "If they want show and action, why don't they let me do a little demonstration on them with knives and arrows?" Effie glared at me for a moment. I couldn't believe that she was still taking their side, after everything she had been through with Katniss.

"Hayley, you don't want to get on the wrong side with these people. You haven't been out there and you haven't even started your training yet. You don't know them like I do. You don't know what they are capable of. Stay alert, my dear!" Kieran informed me. I was beginning to be tired of all these instructions from him but I knew that he means well and he was going to help Jake and Lucy and for that, I would forever be grateful to him. Josh stood up from the table and went to his room. He was obviously still pissed about earlier. Maybe he meant well too and I hadn't realized it. "You both need to get some rest. Your training starts tomorrow." Kieran informed me so that I would be ready.

**A/N: So, what do you think? This chapter was packed with a lot of things. I know that you have been waiting for so long and I can promise you that Klaus and Hayley are going to meet in the next chapter. It is going to be intense because so far, they've only caught glimpses of one another and saw each other on television. We'll see how they'll be face to face. What do you think of Hayley's mother being back home? Most importantly, what do you think is wrong with Katherine? We will have a long way to go before we really find out. What about the other characters from home. How do you feel about them?**

**Leave me a review and please let me know what you think about the characters. Kisses! **


	7. Training Day 1

**There was the tribute parade and both Hayley and Josh showed themselves to be very impressive**. **Everyone loved the moon that shined on them and made them look magnificent. After lots of spectators applauding, Hayley and Josh made their way to their apartment that belonged to them until the start of the games. Hayley had refused the proposition Josh had made her to pretend to be a couple in public so they could earn sponsors. Hayley would do anything to survive, win the games and go back home to Lucy and Jake but this was beyond her.**

**As far as it goes for the relationship between Katherine and Elijah, it is not easy because Elijah feels a need to protect her, even though there was nothing left between them. There is also something very wrong with Katherine medically and we will soon be looking into that. **

**In this new chapter, we are going to see the first day of training for our champions and with this occasion, Hayley and Josh are going to be introduced to their opponents in the games, especially the Career Tributes for which Kieran had advised them to look out for, Niklaus Mikaelson and Camille O'Connell (District 2), Katherine Pierce and Elijah Mikaelson (District 1). The two brothers might finally meet as well as other new characters. Prepare for the first day of training!**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The First Day of Training**

I opened my eyes after a face had appeared inside of my head. I had seen her before. Of course I had seen her. She was my mother, but she had not been seen by anyone for over four years. I sure hoped that she wouldn't find a way to get back into my life. That was not the way it was supposed to be done. She had to earn my respect and my trust back if she did make another appearance. Lucy and Jake. They were the only family that I had left. The thoughts of them being punished because of me by the Capitol or me leaving them forever, only to meet again in the next world, were buzzing around in my head. No. Failure was not an option. Not for me. If I truly had nothing left to live for, I would have accepted this. I would have let them deal with me how they wanted and I would have to take my chances. But not this way. This was me, a sister, a role model and I had to continue the Marshall legacy for my father. I would fight to get back to my brother and sister. I could care less about the fame and fortune that came with the victory.

There was a knock on my door and I stood up, covering myself up with a purple robe. Kieran walked inside and looked at the clock. "You do know that it's 6:30 AM, right?" he asked me and I looked at the clock as well, nodding afterwards. "Then you do realize that you should have been up half an hour ago, right?" he asked me and I slowly nodded my head, lowering my head. Kieran shook his head as he stepped over to me. "No. Not like this. That is not the face that I am allowing you to start your day with." He came over to me and pushed a strand of hair above my ear, making me smile a little. "You are a fighter. Act like one, Hayley and you will be fine." When he saw the look on my face, he was prepared to say more but Effie called out from the kitchen, "Breakfast is ready!" Kieran clapped his hands together and pointed to the door. "Let's get going! There is no telling what she'll do to us if we don't come."

It was filled with food and my mouth watered once more as I looked at it. Josh was already there and he waved at Hayley in a friendly way. "Morning, stranger." I whispered with a smile and sat down next to him. "Morning." He greeted me as he stuffed his mouth with waffles. I had gotten used to these eating habits of his. Effie was looking at his in a disapproving way. I giggled a little as I saw it and everyone at the table looked at me. Kieran smiled and said, "It's good to see you in this mood for a change. You've been grumpy and upset ever since you got here." He told me and I rolled my eyes. "Well, I have been sent here to take my chances in front of death. How can I not be upset, especially when I have a starving brother and sister at home and I am here, eating things of such value and comfort in my stomach that I had never tasted in my entire life? What hurts me more is that I can't even share this with them." Rona came through the door at once and everyone's heads snapped up. She also had a smile on her face. She had become quite hopeful that either one of us would win The Hunger Games, since the manifestation with the moon during the Tribute Parade.

She looked at us and asked, "Not too early am I?" "Not at all. Please, do come in." Kieran nodded and motioned for her to join us for breakfast. Rona sat down and grabbed some food for herself, after she set down the outfits she was holding in her hand. I pointed to them on the couch and asked, "Um, what are those?" Rona looked back and smiled. "Those are for you. You will be starting your training today and you need the proper outfits for that. Don't worry, all the outfits have to be the same for all tributes. It's nothing special this time. Just the number which represents your district." I nodded, seeming really excited to try them on. "Oh, that's awesome! I can't wait to see what they are going to teach us." Josh exclaimed, excited. Kieran just shook his head. "Don't sound too excited. It's nothing much." I looked at him and chewed slowly on my bacon. "What do you mean? They are put there so they can train us!" I argued and Kieran slowly shook his head. "They will just give you the basics. You will be training yourselves." I looked over at Effie in astonishment and she nodded her head slowly. "It's true."

"So this is their plan, then? To kill us off easily because we are not trained? And of course those who have been training since they were small children like those from 1 and 2, the Career Tributes, are rewarded for doing something illegal." I snapped and chewed bitterly. Kieran put his hand on mine. "They are not rewarded for that. They are simply…advantaged because they are already trained. While others, who have only known hard labor all their lives…have disadvantages, Hayley. That's the way life works." I nodded and put down my fork and knife. "I know that life is not fair. My father had taught me that once. But I am not going to let it get the best of me." Kieran smiled and said, "That's the spirit! Now, even though they will only be giving you the basics in this training, you need to understand that what they will be telling you will be extremely important. Pay very close attention." "Alright! Got it!" Josh said and then continued eating. How could he eat so much at a time like this?

**District 12: Jake Marshall**

**Awaiting the Games**

I watched as Lucy put some warm covers over our mother as she lay down in Hayley's bed. I growled a little and Lucy frowned at me, making me back away from the room. We went to the kitchen, where Lucy started making something to eat. What else except bread and cheese? "Hayley wouldn't like her to be with us. I told you that she is bad news. I don't want her here. I am the oldest and I am telling you to tell her to leave before I do it, Lucy." She just shook her head and whispered, "I am not cruel like you." "That woman left us when we were fighting for food, just because she was afraid that we would enter The Hunger Games. She didn't want to watch. Hayley is in and now, our mother is watching. Where is the logic in that? Why is she here and what does she want from us? Does she want us to care for her and tell her we love her just because she is making promises that she will never leave us again? She will, once the games are over. If Hayley…" I avoided saying something that might scare my little sister.

Lucy looked over at me and put a hand on mine. "We have to help her, Jake. She is still our mother. And is sick and needs us. As her son, you would help her too. Please." She whispered, calmly. That was one of the thing that she and Hayley had in common. They were both able to get me to calm down. Lucy put down the knife we had and took the bread and cheese to the room where our mother was lying still. "Jake, forgive me." Annabelle slowly whispered and tears filled up Lucy's eyes as she looked at me as well. I sighed and looked over at my mother as she ate. She really wanted my forgiveness. "Where is Hayley?" Annabelle suddenly asked and looked around. I furrowed my eyebrows and sat down next to her. "Hayley is at the Capitol, Mom. You know that…don't you?" Annabelle looked over at me and slowly nodded her head. "Yes. I think so." Lucy looked over at me and whispered, "What is wrong with her?" I had no idea.

Seeing as everyone had to have a projector for The Hunger Games, some people from the capitol brought one for us to watch the games as well. For the ratings, they were willing to do anything and they knew that every district would be watching The Hunger Games every year, which is what, permitted them to continue it for so long. I turned it on and hoped that I would see something about my sister. Caesar Flickerman was on and he was indeed talking about The Hunger Games but he wasn't talking about the tributes. I sighed, left it on and then old Lucy to bring Mom there so we would all watch together. "When does your sister start the games?" Annabelle whispered, as she munched on more of that cheese. I hated how Lucy just always offered whatever we had in the house. We needed food for ourselves too.

"What did you sister tell you?" Mom asked us and Lucy and I looked at each other, surprised. "What do you mean?" I asked her and she just shook her head, with tears in her eyes. "Was she upset that she was chosen? Did she say that this is all my fault?" Lucy grabbed a hold of her and hugged her tightly. "She said that she will come back to us." "Then she will." "How do you know that? The spot in the victory tour is not reserved for her, you know?" I asked her and she started shaking her head as we watched Caesar Flickerman show us some shots from the Tribute Parade. "There is Hayley!" Lucy exclaimed at once and pointed to the picture. I smiled when I saw her. She was glowing in the moonlight with her partner, Josh. I knew that she would do just about anything to get back home, even please the people that she hates. "She looks like a real Queen." Annabelle whispered as she looked at her. I still couldn't feel sorry for this woman. Why should I? She abandoned us when we needed her the most! I didn't care like Lucy this.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The First Day of Training**

Our mentor had us up first thing in the morning. He said he would enter our rooms and wake us up himself, if it was necessary. Little did he know that I was up before 6 AM. Waking up, I looked at the clock and noticed that it was just 5 o'clock. Grinning, I whispered, "Perfect." It was just the right time for me to start my own personal training. Using one of the special swords that my father had bought for me for this, I did the basics, as I had been taught at my school. I chuckled just thinking of the way I was going to show everyone up today. Hell, like Mikael always says, "No one can beat the Mikaelsons!" I ran my tongue over my lips for effect as I got out of my closet a couple of dummies and chopped their heads off in seconds. Until 6 AM came, I focused on push-ups only, to make sure I would be prepared. Before I could get myself a glass of bourbon to calm my nerves, the door opened wide and Camille was standing there with her hands on her hips, in her nightgown. "What are you doing here?" I groaned when I saw her. She shrugged and stepped over. "I am just curious to know what you were planning on drinking now. I suppose you don't know that our mentor has forbidden us any sorts of beverages that include alcohol?" she asked in a know-it-all tone. I smirked and started drinking right from the bottle.

"Tell that to someone who cares." I brushed past her, forgetting to put on a shirt, and revealing to everyone in the apartment my abs. It was something I was fond and proud of. "I care, you genius! You said that while we will be out there, you are going to protect me. I wait for that to happen. And in order for that to happen, I need you to be healthy!" "In case you haven't noticed, I have other and more important things to worry about, sweetheart. You don't even make my second priority at the moment, maybe not even my third. I don't know. It depends on you." Camille scoffed at me and crossed her arms over her chest. "And what is that supposed to mean?" "It means that if you continue bothering me, I will just cut you from my team." "No problem! There are plenty of other tributes that I can get to team up with me." "Your intellect may be of use to some but are you really going to trust someone who is not even from your district? That wouldn't be a good move if you ask me, love."

Gora came over to us with a frown on her face. "Breakfast, now! And I don't wish to hear anymore bickering between the two of you. Whether you like it or not, you are going to be working together out there. This is how we are training you. Career Tributes have always looked out for one another." As we sat down, Camille gasped, "You mean that we have to team up with the tributes from District 1 as well? You brother?" she looked at me and grinned. I knew exactly what she had in mind. Whenever she didn't get something she wanted, she always resorted to seducing and the last thing that I wanted was to watch her try to seduce Elijah with her intellect during training." I chuckled as I imagined it and whispered, "I think that you should be more focused on growing some muscles in that weak body of yours today. Your intellect can only get you halfway out there." I commented. "That is why I have you."

Our mentor came to the breakfast table and opened the TV for us to watch the latest reports and news. "They are already placing bets before the training had even begun. Klaus…you're a grand favorite." He told me with a smile and I smirked as I saw that on television. Gora ordered more food to be served as she showed us the training outfits that had been brought out for us. "What people are mostly excited about is to see you and your brother fighting against one another. But what we want is to see you as partners." "That is never going to happen." I responded and Gora stopped eating. "You really don't have a choice, dear. We all know of your family's history but whether you like it or not, Elijah is still a Mikaelson son, even though he lives in District 1 now." She said and sipped her tea. "I don't see how it's fair that he should represent District 1 when he was born clearly in District 2." Camille responded and I threw my fist on the table as I looked at her, angrily. "My family is none of your concern, Camille!"

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**The First Day of Training**

Katerina has been acting weirdly ever since that day when she showed me how sick she was feeling. I feel like she was always hiding something from me since the day I first saw her after our break up, at the Reaping. She was sick and she didn't want me to help her. Nina had helped and she had punished the cooks for giving us supposed "poisoned food". I did not believe one minute of it. It was the big morning. After breakfast, we would be immediately directed to the training center. They would train us for the worst that was yet to come. Katerina was in her room and she was supposed to see what was coming to her. "Why are you up so early? You should be resting." Katherine rolled her eyes and stood up, coming over to me and brushing her fingers slightly over my cheek. She used to have this sort of effect on me. But not anymore. "I never knew you would be this worried about me, Elijah." Katherine whispered.

"I suggest that you get yourself ready, dear. It is going to be a bumpy ride." I whispered to her as I sat down at the breakfast table with Nina and our mentor. "Elijah, there was another interview today. Very early in the morning. It's about your relationship with your brother, Klaus." I stopped eating and looked at Nina and Katherine who were looking directly at me. "What was it about? I have nothing to say to these people. I am aware that my brother is competing against me this year. I am aware." "What you are not aware is that the two of you are the favorites of winning the games based on a statistic that was made. People from all over The Capitol were asked who they believe is going to win the games. You and your brother are tied to first place." The mentor told me. I could barely chew as I heard the news. Katherine decided to step in and she said, "But how can they just already express their opinion which seeing the training results yet?" she asked. "People are people. But trust me that you have nothing to worry about. The tributes from Districts 1 and 2 are always the top ones. As Klaus and Elijah are tied in first place, you are in second, Katherine and the District 2 female, Camille is fourth on the list."

"What about the tributes from District 12?" Nina asked our mentor and my eyes showed confusion at once. Katherine frowned at me. "What did you expect? They made quite a show with the way their costumes reflected the light of the moon at The Tribute Parade. I suppose that they are the public's favorites now?" she asked the mentor as well and he shook his head. "Not exactly. Like you said, the show was spectacular but not enough for them to get enough votes to reach the top. The statics are not going to change, trust me. Over the years, the tributes from 1 and 2 have always been in the top. That is not going to change even after your training results and marks." I wanted to know more about this. "But we did have someone from District 12 to win a couple of years back before the second revolution. Katniss Everdeen, you remember perhaps?" I asked and the mentor lowered his head. "That subject is to be ended. Katniss Everdeen is the one who started the war and it frankly, it was not necessary. We were doing just fine. Because of her and he people, lots of lives were lost in a battle which made little sense."

I saw it again. She was not feeling well. As green as she was, Katherine spit out her food and ran to the bathroom as fast as she could. Nina gasped and stood up as well, following her to the bathroom. "This can't be right. The food is not poisoned. She is he only one affected. There is something wrong with her." I concluded and told the mentor. I was going to get to the bottom of this. If she was sick, she needed to have a medical examination, but she refused to see a doctor. There were loud yells that were coming from Nina's mouth as Katherine exited the bathroom. "I told you that you need to see a doctor! Don't you turn your back on me!" she screeched and Katherine's eyes were suddenly full of tears. "I don't want to see a doctor, okay? Just leave me alone. I am fine." The mentor tried to calm her down. "If you don't feel well, you must not participate at the training today." "I can't!" "We can't have you get sicker than you already are!" "But I am going to lower my chances of getting sponsors if everyone finds out that there I something wrong with me that I am not training. Besides, I am fine. Just a stomachache."

She moved to leave but I grabbed her hand and moved her towards me, dangerously close. "I have known you for a very long time. We have had an intimate relationship for a long time. You tell me right now what is going on, Katerina. I am serious." I whispered to her face. She looked affected by the way I called her Katerina and not Katherine like everyone else and that was exactly the way I wanted it to be. She wanted to say something again but finally decided against it. "What is it?" I snapped at her. "We are in a competition, Elijah. Remember that just because we are partners and belong to the same district, we are still competing against each other to survive in the games." I growled a little and tightened the grip on her arm. "And you remember how much I loved you once and I still care for you and want what is best for you. Whatever it is, I can help you with it. You don't have to act strong in front of me." I let go of her arm and made sure that I made a point. After a long moment of awkwardness and silence, Nina pointed at the outfits that were lying on the sofa. "I will need you to get dressed now. The training is to begin."

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The First Day of Training**

It was 8:30 AM and all of the tributes were now waiting outside the training center for the doors to be opened and for us to enter and start our training. "You will have four days of training before the supreme test. After they are going to test you, they will give you a score from 1 to 12, just like the number of the districts. If you get a score from 8 to 12, you have high chances of getting sponsors. If your final score is lower than that, I am sorry to say that you have no chances." Kieran whispered as Josh and I were standing with Effie, ready to enter. I sighed and nodded. "But just remember that the ones who are going to evaluate you at the end and the ones who are going to assist in every training day are going to be the Gamemakers themselves and they can be very subjective." I nodded at ones. "They prefer the ones from districts 1 and 2." "Exactly, but that does not mean that you can't win them over because you can."

I giggled a little and whispered, "And how do you propose I do that? Am I going to do what Katniss did and shoot an apple over their heads with an arrow?" Josh groaned and said, "Stop comparing your situation to the one Katniss had. You said so yourself. You are two different girls." "Yes, you're right. I was just trying to lighten the mood." I answered and Kieran smiled at me. "I like your sudden spirit and your excitement is exactly what is going to help you win the Gamemakers over, especially when the time comes that you have to take that interview on TV with Caesar Flickerman." I groaned and covered my head with my hands. "I hate that guy." "Me too. His face always looks like he is trying to get people to punch it." Josh agreed with me. Kieran rolled his eyes. "I don't really care. When the time is right, you have to make yourselves pleasant." "And don't forget about your manners that need improvement. Both of you." Effie warned us. Yes, this really was the same Effie that I knew on television.

The doors opened and we walked inside. The mentors were left outside and we all walked as though we were robots, all wearing matching black outfits but with silver numbers on our shoulders. There were different numbers representing our districts. A lot of us gasped as we watched the inside of the training center. I had never seen anything like this. It was absolutely majestic and I loved it. It gave you some sort of vibe that made you fight to be here, fight to win the games. There was a dark colored skin woman waiting for us who was wearing matching outfits along with other trainers who would be taking care of us for the next four days of training. The woman was waiting to give us the same speech that she gave all the other tributes each year during The Hunger Games.

I was looking around to see if I could spot out the ones that Kieran had told me were the dangerous ones. I noticed the two tributes from District 1, standing side by side, both with the arms crossed over their chests and were looking serious at the woman. The male looked to be the oldest from around here and he had an aristocratic face with a muscular physique. He was his father's son alright. I knew Mikael Mikaelson pretty well. Everyone knew who this man was. I personally considered him a murderous cheater of the Games but apparently, he had murdered so violently and had been so keen on being a part of the Capitol that President Snow and the others had accepted him and now, his whole family was famous. His boys were known for wanting to continue his legacy. The girl next to him had long and curly dark brown hair and she looked a little sick but strong. The ones from District 2 were easy to spot as well. The female had long and blonde hair and she looked like she would be a pain in the ass to anyone. She had to be Camille. And the man next to her, even if he was 17 going on 18, Niklaus Mikaelson looked like he was already a man over 20 years old, with the same muscular physique as his older brother…but that was it. He looked nothing like his father, but as a man, he was attractive in his own way. His smirk was devilish and it was something that I didn't like about him. I knew he would be like the typical son of Mikael, selfish, ruthless and full of himself.

The woman had started speaking and Josh pinched me so I could snap out of my thoughts and pay attention. "In two weeks, twenty-three of you will be dead. And one of you will be alive. Who that is depends on how well you pay attention over the next four days, especially to what I am about to say. First, no fighting with the other tributes. You'll have plenty of time for that in the arena. My advice to you is, don't forget the survival skills. Everyone just wants to grab a sword…but most of you will die from natural causes. Ten percent from infection and twenty perfect from dehydration. Exposure can kill as easily as a knife." I couldn't help but look over at the tributes from 1 and 2 and see their reactions. They were all grinning from ear to ear. I knew they would be happy that Mother Nature would eventually make their work a hell of a lot easier. But I was not going to let them destroy me. I would work my hardest to survive out there. I was terrific at knowing what to do to survive in forests and in nature in general. My muscles were not well developed but…I did have my own advantages.

"Off to work! And if you need any help, my men and I would be right here in case you need help in learning how to use any weapon." The woman smiled at us. I looked up as a heard a round of applause. The Gamemakers were up there, sitting in fancy chairs and drinking champagne like I knew they would. Just seeing them like that made my blood boil. I didn't want them to act so superior like they controlled our lives. All of the tributes scattered around the arena, trying to find any sort of weapons with which they would find things to do. Josh was standing there, next to me with his hands crossed over his chest. "What are you thinking about? Aren't you supposed to start your training?" "Aren't you?" I shrugged. "I don't know with what I should start." Josh whispered to me. "I had started my training a long time ago." "What do you mean? What have you done?" "Just some research on our other competitors. I know the majority of the tributes here." "You know about them all?" I asked, intrigued. "Everyone except 4, 7, 8 and 10." Josh responded and I rubbed my hands together. "Fill me in, please. I do happen to be your partner."

"We have from District 1, Elijah Mikaelson, the big head Mikaelson boy, age 18. He got chosen in his last year to participate. Lives with his mother and his smaller brother, Kol in District 1 after the rough divorce of the Mikaelsons years ago. His female partner is Katherine Pierce. Don't know much about her except that she has always wanted to be in the games. She is also very good in using an arrow. Better watch out for her in that domain. District 2 presents to you the baddest Mikaelson son, Niklaus. He prefers to be called Klaus. A master in all weapons, just like his brother. There is nothing going past him. Lives in District 2 with his father and with his smaller sister, Rebekah. He also volunteered to be a part of the games, influenced by his father, I heard. Camille O'Connell, known as desperate for attention but she can be just as deadly with her mind as any other Career Tribute. District 3, Thierry, the man with the trumpet. Really good at that and good fighting skills inherited from his father. Davina Claire, his partner. I know of her as a sweet gal who never wanted to be a part of the games. District 5 with Diego, the black dude over there, just as deadly and the girl, Gia. Gia comes from a wealthy family and she is a good fighter. District 6, I know that wicked girl, Monique. She is a gypsy and really scary from what I heard. You don't want to be anywhere near her. She's a freak. I don't know the male partner. District 9 holds that redheaded girl, Genevieve. She can be just as twisted as her face. Her partner's name is Kaleb. And at last, we have the poorest District, 11 with Marcel Gerard and Sabine Lenore. And then…there's us." I nodded and clapped my hands together. "Very nice. Where do you know about them?" "I saw my dad before we left for the Capitol and he holds that kind of info. I guess I'm lucky."

"Guess I am lucky to have you as a partner." I answered him and started walking around, observing everyone. "So, what are you going to start with? I want to head over to the survival area. I need some help in that domain. I have no idea what I am supposed to do in the wild, how I am supposed to survive." Osh told me. "Well, luckily for you, I know and if you play nice for the next few days, I am going to give you the basics. These trainers don't look like they want to help just anyone. They are more focused on helping Districts 1 and 2." I told him. "Do you want to join me there, then?" he asked and I shook my head. "No, you go ahead. I am just going to stick around here for a while." "You want to become an expert in swordfights?" he asked me with a joking smile on his face. I nodded. "There is nothing wrong with wanting to learn how to defend myself." Josh finally agreed to go on without me.

There were not many people who were in the swordfight area of the training center. I entered the place and recognized the three people from what Josh explained to me earlier. That guy Thierry, from District 3 was there, mastering his sword techniques. He had a really deadly look on his face. The guy Kaleb from District 9 was there was well, and last but not least, the last one I wanted to see, Klaus Mikaelson. The three of them looked like experts. Of course they were. You weren't going to catch a girl in this area besides me. It seems that instead of training on the things that you don't master, the tributes have a way on going over to the places with the weapons and the skills that they already master in order to show off. I did not want to show off. I wanted to survive. I couldn't care less that the trainer in the swordfight area gave me a weird glance like I was not in the right place.

Noticing some boxing bags in the corner, I decided to first try and warm up before I could try to pick up a sword and cut off a dummy's head. I put my hair up into a nice and long ponytail and started working on it. I punched the back a couple of times really hard and I believe that I did it in anger. I would not tolerate being discriminated and treated like this just because I come from a district with lower expectations. Fighting as much as I could, I punched the bag again and again in anger. The trainer was not even looking at me. He was showing that guy Thierry a new trick. I guess the higher the number of your district, the higher the chances you get help around this place. I growled in anger and punched the bag once more. The trainer finally noticed me and came over to me. "What do I have to do to get you to stop ruining this new punching bag?" he asked me and I looked at him angrily. "If you don't mind, I could use some help."

"Need help with a sword? Sorry, darling, but unless you already know the basics, there is nothing I can do to help you. From the way you look, I bet that you can't even hold a sword in your hand the right way." "You have been placed here to help the tributes who don't know." "Choose to learn something else." The trainer told me and that was the last thing he said before he left me there, openmouthed. I looked down at my hands and sighed as I saw blood on the sides. "I don't even know how to hit a punching bag." I whispered to myself. How did I become this person? I used to be different before I left home, before I left Lucy and Jake. It was just like Kieran said to me, _"The Games change you."_ Everything about me was simpler and I wished that I was faced with the problems from my district than the problems I had here. I just knew that no one would ever give me a real chance. Furious at the thought, I hit the punching bag one last time before hearing a cackle of laughter from the back of the room. I turned around and there was Niklaus Mikaelson standing there with his arms crossed over his chest. Now was the time that I noticed that we were the only ones left there. The idiot trainer, Kaleb and Thierry had left the station.

"Am I keeping you from something?" I growled at him and gave him a cold glare. He shook his head and went back to whatever the heck he was doing. He was acting so tough, it killed me. Furious with almost everyone, I went over to the station where Thierry had been and picked up his used sword, whooshing it around and trying to nail it in a dummy but failed. I was getting tired already. I had no muscles. My body was too weak for this. Before I could raise my sword to strike again, it had been taken right from my hands. I gasped as I watched him play with it and use it to make me mad, by swiftly cutting down three heads of the dummies at once. "Give me back my sword or I swear you will be the first on my blacklist when I get in that arena!" My threat did not affect him one bit and he replied, "Not until you tell me your name, gorgeous." I had to stop myself from giggling. Who did he think he was? "You're a dick." I finally said and he smirked at me with those gorgeous icy green to blue eyes of his. "I know." He responded.

Before I could say anything rude, he came over to me…too close for that matter. He placed the sword in my hand and whispered, "Your body is weak. You have no developed muscles and you're aiming the wrong way." I was surprised at what he was saying. He swiftly came behind me as I was holding the sword in my hand. I was completely frozen in shock by his actions and I felt chills crawling on my spine as I felt his sweet breath on my neck. I had never felt anything like this. As I held the sword in my hand, he used his hands from my back to twist my hands so that I was holding the sword correctly. "Not an expert in swords but I suppose you could take after your predecessor, Katniss Everdeen…with strength in bows and arrows." He whispered in my ear. I gasped a little and before I could say anything, he was already gone…and I was left in the swords station all by myself.

**A/N: So, each chapter from now on is going to be a training day until we finally get to the supreme test and we will see what scores the characters are going to get. So, I introduced a lot of new characters as opponents, some known at the villains of the show and some are the heroes. In the next chapter, in the second day, perhaps we will get to meet and learn about others. **

**What do you think of the first interaction between Klaus and Hayley? It is not like they haven't examined each other before, but this was their first real confrontation with one another and boy…was it just me or was the sword station getting somewhat hot for some reason? ;) We'll see what the mentors have to say about this if they find out. Do you think Kieran will advise Hayley to stay away from Klaus? What do you think Josh will say?**

**Please review and let me know what you think! **


	8. Training Day 2

**Previously, the first training day had taken place. After a lot of effort to get Katherine to admit her problems to him, Elijah got angry and warned her that he would find out eventually. Josh and Hayley were instructed by Kieran and Effie how to act and how to present themselves on the first day. As the drama with Hayley's mother continued at home, the female representative from District 12, had the opportunity to meet her competitors in the games, with the help of Josh. Being ignored by her trainer, Hayley finally got some good points from the bad boy male representative from the enemy District 2, Niklaus Mikaelson.**

**This chapter will show the aftermath of that event and how Hayley will deal with Kieran, Effie, Rona and Josh regarding her meeting with Klaus and Mikael and Rebekah will share a heartfelt moment as well, interrupted by Caroline which is going to shake up a bit things around the home of the Mikaelsons, especially when they see Niklaus' last performances in the training center. At last, after talks with his mother, Kol will make an astonishing discovery about the Pierce sisters, Tatia, Elena and Katherine, which will make him rethink about his obsession with Elena Pierce. But is he ready to give up on her just yet? **

**Klaus is going to come face to face with his brother, Elijah as Hayley deals with her plan for survival in this year's Hunger Games! What will she do with one Mikaelson trying to get in her life? Will she let him in? What will be the consequences of that action?**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Still the First Day of Training**

It was something that I had never experienced before. A stranger had been allowed by me to touch me in very remote places and I was comfortable with it. Niklaus Mikaelson, the baddest of them all and the already favorite at winning the games, had me wrapped around his finger for that one moment. And then, he just left me there, feeling the way I have never felt before. The sword was still in my hand and at once, I felt this strength in me when I directed it to the dummy's head and chopped it off. The obnoxious trainer that had refused me before walked by and looked impressed with my way of handling the said sword. I was ready to show him a smug face but before I did, this guy showed me a sincere smile. I was absolutely confused. I thought that he didn't care much. I was from District 12 after all.

Before I could ask the guy a question, I saw him heading up to the place where the Gamekeepers were sitting and enjoying the view. I followed him with my gaze and saw him whispering something in the head Gamekeeper's ear. The man looked shocked and his eyes met mine in seconds. If there was one thing that I couldn't stand was to have people whisper behind my back. The bell rang for the end of the first training day and to make a point, I swung the sword one more time at another dummy and chopped its head off before throwing the sword on the ground and left the station in anger. I could feel the Gamekeepers staring at me as I walked out. Josh had caught up with me in seconds and looked weirdly at the face I was making. "Hey! Are you okay? What happened in there?" "Nothing!" I snapped at him and continued walking. The doors opened the mentors were shown, ready to take their tributes home. Effie and Kieran were waiting for us. As soon as he saw me with a frown on my face, Kieran rubbed his forehead and whispered, "What happened?" "Nothing!" I snapped again and grabbed a towel from Effie.

The way back to the hotel room was silent. We took the elevator and got to the penthouse where we belonged. There were only a few hours left until the end of the night and we had to rest for now. Effie was doing her best to smile in this situation and showed Josh and me some invitations. "I would like you both to look over these. Invitations to parties for tomorrow and the day after tomorrow. I believe that you have the right to attend, if it is okay with your mentor, of course. Josh's eyes lit up at the sight of the invitations and exclaimed, "COOL!" I simply took my invitations and stared at them. Two night parties after the second day of training and the third. The first was an all-black and white party and the second was a masked ball. I rolled my eyes and asked, "What is the point of this?" "Sponsors." Kieran said and I nodded at once, understanding the whole point. "Come with me and let us have some dinner now. But first, you need to freshen up after a hard day." Kieran stopped us from walking and looked at us, saying, "You will need to inform me of everything that happened today. For your own good, I need to know every single detail and I want to hear your impressions and analysis as well. It's going to be a very hard four-day training for the two of you. Next will be the evaluation for you to get your final score. The higher the score, means sponsors for you." "I get it." I whispered at last and set down the invitations.

Effie came over to me with a smile and said, "I hope you washed up like I asked. Dinner is ready." I gave her a look and went to the bathroom, stripping down all of my clothes and getting in the tub. I let the warm water flow through my head, something that I rarely ever felt since before I was chosen as a tribute. We don't have much warm water back in my home, you can imagine. After I finished my shower, I got out of the tub and wrapped a towel around me. There was one thing that I could remember and feel and that was his breath down my neck and his hands on mine as he showed me how to deal with a sword. "Hayley! Come on! What are you doing in there?" I heard Josh yell and I finally realized that I had been standing like this for too long. I put on a fresh nightdress and some slippers and then I headed to the kitchen where they were already sitting down and eating.

"Young lady, would you care to explain what your problem seems to be? I am not in the mood for your attitude tonight." Effie said to me while she was eating. I made another face at her as I dug in my chicken, realizing about now how hungry I was. Kieran was looking at me with a nod. "Yes, I would like to hear how your training went. Josh already told me all about his. Not gotten into any sort of trouble, have you?" he asked me a little afraid and suspicious. "I don't think so. But I did get noticed of course." I responded calmly and Josh groaned. "I told you not to go in the sword section. You were too stubborn to listen to me." "Josh, we go there to get better at the things we are not good at. I have problems using a sword. I needed the training and if you must know…the only people who were there were Mikaelson from 2, Kaleb and Thierry as well. The trainer completely ignored me." Kieran nodded and replied, "That does happen. You are not exactly seen as a good tribute of theirs with Katniss Everdeen in your district's history. Don't expect any of them to help you. Now, President Snow hates the ones from District 12 the most." "And he favors the Mikaelsons." I told him and Kieran finally looked strangely at me.

"Since when do you keep referring to the Mikaelsons?" "What do you mean?" "You keep mentioning them." I didn't say anything as I finished my chicken and Kieran put his hands on the table. "Hayley…have you spoken by any chance to Niklaus Mikaelson today in training?" What exactly was the point of lying? The mentor was here to help me and tell me what I should be doing to survive. "Yes. He came to me." Effie stopped eating and so did Rona. They were all looking at me. "Did he lay the charm on thick?" Rona asked and got shushed at once by Effie. "This is not even allowed to be considered as a joke." Kieran was looking at me a little scared. "We just talked. And he was a dick." "What did you talk about? I need to know everything." Kieran gulped down some wine. I sighed and said, "The trainer would help me with the sword and he came over, wanting to help me instead." "And why would he offer to do that?" "I don't know, but I know that he was just trying to confuse me and make me feel vulnerable." "In what way?" I finally got exasperated by his questions and yelled out, "DOES IT MATTER?" I realized what I had done and felt bad about it, somehow. "You need to understand something, sweetheart. This is not a game for you. Your life is at risk…but this is a game for all of these people in the Capitol who watch it and bet on the tributes. The Mikaelsons have always been the family who supported the Capitol the most. You are associating with one of those Mikaelsons which does not leave you in good hands." "We were just talking, Kieran. Plus, nothing else really happened. He just showed me how to work with a sword." "And the Gamekeepers saw it." "And what's the big deal?" "The big deal is that this Klaus Mikaelson is the most dangerous son of them all and knowing you're from 12, he is most likely the one trying to get you out of rhythm or get you to trust him, and so when the day comes on that arena, it will be that much easier for him to slaughter you." I gaped at him and couldn't find words that were willing to come out of my mouth. Kieran eyed me warily. "The Capitol and President Snow hate you for being from District 12. The Mikaelsons are their biggest weapons. Stay away from Niklaus, Hayley. I mean it!"

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Still the First Day of Training**

Camille and I had finally reached our rooms and she wouldn't stop looking at me. "What is going on with you?" she asked me and I gave her a dark look, meaning that she should stop annoying me or I was so not going to help her when we reached that arena. "I had a long and busy day. Stop trying to make me guess what you're thinking, Bookworm and get to the point already! I am losing my patience with you." She crossed her arms over her chest and said, "Too bad, because I saw you with that skank from 12." Gora appeared to us at once and asked, "What skank?" I rolled my eyes and said, "I was checking out her techniques, to see if she could be the next Girl on Fire." A burst of laughter came from Camille which I ignored and continued. "Turns out that she is weak. She doesn't have a chance out there." Gora smiled. "Excellent! It will be that much easier for you to take down Hayley Marshall." My gaze snapped to her at once. "This is her name?" I asked and Gora nodded. Camille frowned. "Why do you care?" "Not that I care, love but unlike you, I look forward to know every single detail about my enemies in these games."

I finally got her to shut up, stripping down of my shirt in my room and started doing my own personal training outside of those stations so that I would be in perfect shape. There was a knock on my room and my mentor entered, holding an envelope in his hand. "What is this?" I asked and came over to him. "I suppose it's someone from your family." He replied and handed me the letter, leaving the room. It must have been from Rebekah. I was sure of it. Who else could it be? I looked inside and I recognized the signature and the handwriting at once. It was not from Rebekah. I couldn't believe that I was hearing from this woman after such a long time. At once, my knees started trembling and I felt weaker than ever.

_My dearest son, Niklaus, _

_Please note that I only ever wanted the best for you. The separation from your father does not mean that you are not my son. You are…and I will always love you just as much as I love Elijah, Kol and Rebekah. My heart broke for you when I saw you volunteering to enter the games on Mikael's will. I was hoping that I would get to tell Mikael the truth about you before I would leave him so I could take you with me but I knew would enrage him more and our side of the family would be targeted. I hope that you have not told anyone about our little secret. It would surely be a revelation that would end up on the news and I do not want that sort of publicity for you and I surely do not want to think about the fury that Mikael would be ready to unleash upon this family of ours, especially on you, my son. _

_Your brother, Elijah, has been selected to be in the games with you. I wish him well every day and I hope that he is going to come out of this as a victor. It is the same that I wish for you. I do hope that you have seen your brother and you have spoken to him. If you have not, I would strongly recommend it. It is for the good of our family and I can promise you that nothing bad can come out of this if you try to ally with your brother for the games. It would make me so happy and it would give me more hope that I miracle can happen and I can have you both home safe and sound. _

_Take care and my the odds be ever in your favor,_

_Your mother, Esther_

I set the letter on the table, barely able to breathe. "Talk to my brother?" I exclaimed in fury and kicked a chair that went crashing into the wall in seconds. Gora and my mentor entered the room. "Is something wrong?" she asked. "Just leave the goddamn room and leave me alone!" I yelled at them both and sat down on my bed and held my head in my hands. Why was I forced to tolerate this? My mentor came over and set down two invitations to the parties the next day and the day after that. "You will attend in the name of your family. It will make a good impression and it would be a good time for you to gather as many sponsors as you can." He said and then he turned to Gora and led her out of the room. I greatly appreciated the privacy. But what was I going to do about him? What was I going to do about Elijah?

**District 2: Rebekah Mikaelson**

**Still the First Day of Training**

It was a night when I thought about many things, but most importantly, I could only think about the honor that my brother was receiving out there in the games. But I wanted to reach him. What if I sent him a letter to let him know how things went around here? I thought many times about sending Elijah a letter as well. Perhaps he would answer back. He has always been the most decent brother out of them all and even though we were now fighting for different districts, we were still brothers. The real problem remained of course, my father, who seemed more and more hungry for power each day that passed. I didn't know what I was supposed to do or say with this. I was supposed to be strong for what was left of this family. I could already hear my father getting busy with the phone calls to the Capitol.

"Father!" I exclaimed and headed down to the kitchen where the servants were already preparing our meal. Father was right there and he showed me the sign that he was busy. I sighed and I heard the doorbell ring. Seeing that my father was busy and so were the servants, I fetched it. Opening the door, Caroline was standing there, wearing a too beautiful dress. I gaped at her and asked, "What are you doing here?" "I came here for dinner. Your father invited me to come and support Klaus." "Why would he invite you? Niklaus broke up with you, remember, or does it seem impossible for you to understand?" "Rebekah, let her in!" Mikael exclaimed and Caroline looked smug as she walked past her.

The table was set for three and Caroline sat on the end that she loved best so she could watch the news on television. "What do you want to know about exactly?" Mikael asked her and she shrugged. "I just want to know what he has been up to. Our relationship was left so frozen the last time that we saw each other. Nik didn't say anything to me. I told him that if I knew that he was going to volunteer, I would have volunteered and gone into those games with him instead of Camille." I rolled my eyes as I ate my dinner. "Yeah! I am sure you would have." Caroline just gave me another one of her dirty looks that she always used to give me when she was in fact dating Niklaus. I felt like I had already given up on trying to get her to understand that she was no longer Niklaus' girlfriend. Mikael nodded and whispered, "I am surprised that he had not mentioned you the last time we spoke. He could have told us to take care of you but he hadn't, why do you think that is, Rebekah?" It was my turn to smirk at Caroline and I said the best way possible, "I simply suggest that maybe they aren't in a relationship no longer." Both Caroline and Father were going to say something at the same time when the news went on and they showed images of today's training. They first showed Elijah…the brother that I had not seen in a very long time.

Father turned his attention away from the screen at that moment and I knew that it was hurting him to think that he would not be able to speak to Elijah ever again. I missed him too. But District came first. Then, they showed Katherine Pierce, one of the famous Pierce sisters and I knew that she was the one Elijah had dated since about a couple of months ago. I wondered what happened between them. Elijah loved her more than anyone else and he seemed so breath taken by her. Camille was shown next. She was not interested in picking up any sort of weapon and using it. For her, it was more important to learn as much as she could about the survival skills in the forest. Caroline started laughing as she saw her. And then, another image was shown…and it was one that shocked the lot of us. There was Niklaus…and he was showing the girl from District 12 how to use a sword.

I absolutely loved the look on Caroline's face at that moment but I was curious to know what Nik was doing with this girl. This wasn't like him, to show some and especially someone from District 12, our greatest enemies at the moment, how to use a sword. Mikael growled at the table as he whispered, "What does he think he is doing?" Caroline was ragging with fury as well as she stared at the image. "Perhaps the photo is taken out of context, Father. You know how Caesar Flickerman is. He tries to make anything look like a love story in these games. He is obsessed with them and creating drama is his thing." "This was not taken out of context, Rebekah. I can see it very clearly. My son…is helping a helpless girl from 12, a girl who is the descendant of Katniss Everdeen, a girl whom he should see as the enemy!" Mikael stood up from the table and left. Caroline stood up and I came towards her. "I think we've already established that Niklaus is over you…get out of our house." She didn't need to be told twice.

Father had not come out of his room and he was once again making phone calls to the Capitol. I was surprise that he didn't try to speak to Niklaus himself by now. What was he waiting for? Then, I realized what I had to do. I had to finally write him a letter, explaining everything that went on around here. He did in fact; ask me to keep him posted in case Father went mad again for some reason.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Second Day of Training**

Waking up, the light shone brightly on my face and it was making it impossible for me to see. I looked at the click and realized that it was 7 AM. I gasped and got out of bed at once. I was not allowed to sleep so much. I needed to be at the training center in a couple of hours. The only thing that I was hoping for was that I could have a better day this time. There was no way that I was ready for more drama with the other tributes and the warnings that Kieran had given me the other day were enough for me. I made a promise to myself that I would not allow myself to get this wrong. I needed allies, not friends and especially not enemies. But enemies do have a way of following you everywhere and then…there was Niklaus Mikaelson. I was sure that the other day could have just been a misunderstanding. It was not going to happen again. He was supposed to be with his kind and he wasn't just going to get me interested. Niklaus Mikaelson was nothing but a dick, waiting to get advantage of me so I could be his play toy. Not going to happen. After getting in the tub for a shower, I went to the kitchen to have breakfast.

Kieran and Effie hadn't said anything to me this time and they barely even looked at me. I wondered what that meant. Josh, on the other hand, looked very excited and pleased with himself. I didn't know how he could feel that way. "What is it with you?" I asked him and he stared at me, shrugging afterwards. "I don't know what you're talking about, Hayley." "You're joyful. What can you be joyful about?" "Getting good at what I do. Maybe you should stay away from swords today and head to something you might be able to master like…bows and arrows." I shook my head. "No. That will only give the impression that I am this games' new Katniss Everdeen, which I am not." This was the first time that Kieran spoke up. "No. It will be giving you an opportunity to get some people on your side. There were a lot of people who loved and respected Katniss. You can have the same amount of respect and love as well."

Once we got to the training center, they took no time at all to open the doors and let us in. I could tell that we were the only ones that were late, because we slept in. Effie hadn't yelled at me for that matter but I don't think she did mind and realized that we needed our sleep. The colored woman came over to us and shook her head in disappointment. "Punctuality is a quality that is greatly needed in the games, and one I suppose you don't possess. Better luck next time!" Josh rolled his eyes and I had to agree on that one. These people should really stop acting like they cared whatever happened to us. Except for the tributes from Districts 1 and 2, we were pigs ready for slaughter around here. And the Gamekeepers were happy to do the slaughtering themselves. I looked around and tried to catch sight of him but he was nowhere to be found. "Taking my advice with the bows?" Josh asked me and I finally nodded. "I might as well give it a try. What the hell do I have to lose here?" I whispered under breath.

But there he was. Niklaus Mikaelson was trying in the bows and arrows station today. Once Josh saw him, he immediately froze and started backing away but I grabbed his arm and held him still. "I can't believe that you are just going to let this guy get to you like that." "Hayley, I am useless in comparison to him. He is dangerous and Kieran said we should stay away from the Mikaelson brothers." "Yeah, well, I want to show them up!" Klaus caught my eyes and smirked before he got back to work. I could remember that it was him who in fact suggested the bows and arrows. I could have been giving him the satisfaction now that I went his way, which meant that he had some sort of control over me. Without realizing what I was doing, I went over there to him and put my hands on my hips. He smirked at me once more and said, "I can see that you took my advice." "And I can see that you are trying desperately hard to keep fit, but it's not working." I told him back. Josh was trying to make himself invisible and headed over to the survival skills center. "Not much bravery in that one, huh?" Klaus asked me as he watched Josh scurry over there. "Not exactly but I think he is too proud to be seen with someone like you." I whispered.

Klaus smiled and opened his mouth to speak but I had already taken a bow and some arrows, that I started shooting perfectly at some dummies. The Mikaelson son looked impressed, but not enough to treat me as a dangerous opponent. Not quite yet. "I told you that you have it in you. I suppose you all District 12 women are the same, like to shoot darts around and break men's hearts." He chuckled and went back to work. He was shooting perfectly as well. Of course he did! Since he had been illegally training for the games, he was practically a master at each and every one of them. "I really can't figure out what makes your hate so strong for me, sweetheart. Am I breaking your heart already?" Klaus asked me with a charming smile, which sent me to direct an arrow towards the place where the Gamekeepers were sitting and I accidently let go. "NO!" I yelled out and then covered my mouth as the arrow missed them by inches. They looked down angrily at me and now I knew that I blew it. Without expecting him to, Klaus came forth and told them. "Don't worry about it! It was just an accident. But practice makes perfect!" He seemed to have convinced them and then he turned back to me. I was not smiling and not prepared to thank him. I just turned around and got back to work as the Gamekeepers have started to ignore me again. But Klaus looked like he was more than prepared to face me. "What are you doing, love? I just saved your Goddamn respect you get from these people." I couldn't believe his words.

"Respect? Man, you really are thick! I don't get respect around here the way you do. I am nothing to these people, just some meat they are willing to sacrifice. You on the other hand, have it all and you're just like the rest, spoiled and selfish with the undeserved pride you get." I told him and prepared to shoot when he put his warm hand on my arm and made me feel weak and I slowly backed down the bow. His eyes looked soft for that one moment and he was prepared to say something when I caught him off. "What makes you so different from the rest? You are all just pawns of the Capitol." He rolled his eyes at that remark. "So like for District 12th tributes to judge books, meaning people, by its covers." I scoffed at him. "I know what it means!" "I wouldn't be so sure about that…little wolf." My eyes snapped up at him and he smiled, pressing a finger on my neck, where I had a wolf tattooed to my skin. I finally understood where this nickname thing begun and I was not troubled with me. To tell the truth, I actually sort of liked it to be perfectly honest here. I sighed and turned back around to speak to him, but he was already gone. What was it with him? Why did he keep on disappearing like this?

**District 1: Kol Mikaelson**

**The Second Day of Training**

Things were cool and normal here in District 1. I was waiting for the perfect moment when I would head over to the house where the Pierce sisters were living and scoop Elena off of her feet. Sure, here in District 1, you don't exactly care about falling in love with people. What you truly care about is fame and fortune, and of course, to find a beautiful wife whom you don't necessarily have to love, but to start a family with…so you can have children. That was the way it was exactly for Mom and Dad. I do think that Mother loved him but I have a hard time believing that her feelings were not just one sided. Since I was younger, all I could think about was her. She was very fetching, with her angelic figure, yet she had the devil in her eyes that all of the Pierce sisters had. But even so, the three were so completely different. Tatia was always the jealous and profitable one, not bearing to be outshined by her smaller twin sisters. She was willing to do anything to get any man she wanted and she had her eye on Elijah for a long while now, but my brother was never fooled. Katherine was the wild and sexy one. Elijah had always loved her and will always love her for who she is. And then, there was my Elena, Katherine's smaller twin and yet she looks to me even more beautiful than Katherine, with her glowing chocolate brown hair and her piercing eyes that are always asking me to come over to her and make her mine.

If Katherine was the wild and sexy one, Elena Pierce was the angelic and calm one, but she had a little thirst of excitement in her just like her sisters. She was never completely innocent and I knew that. Mother was sitting down in the kitchen and she was looking a little worried. "What's going on?" I asked her and she just shook her head. "Just thinking about Elijah…and Niklaus out there." "Hey, Nik's my brother just as much as Elijah is, but you have to root for Elijah. That is the way it is. You can't have both of them and even I know that, Mother." She looked at me a little angry and whispered, "Where are you planning on going?" I pointed to the door and said, "I am going out into town…to see Elena." Esther shook her head and locked the door. "Kol, you have to stop obsessing about that girl." "What's the problem here? I come from a wealthy family and Father always said that I do have the right to choose any woman I wanted. Elena comes from a wealthy family as well and I want her."

"Elena is not the girl for you. Your father had no idea…" "And why is she not the girl for me? I am sure that I can win her over if I…" "It is not about that, Kol. The Pierce family is…working more for the Capitol than you think." "What are you talking about?" "It's President Snow." "What?" "Just sit down. I think it is time that you know the truth." I decided to take a seat, even though I rarely do listen to Mother. "President Snow has had the idea…a couple of months ago." "What idea?" "The women that have been born in the Pierce family have always been the most beautiful in District 1 and 2. President Snow had decided that he wants them…to be the bearers of children for his sons…and other famous men from the Capitol." "What?" I couldn't believe my ears. "I suppose this is why Katherine broke up with Elijah a couple of months ago and didn't tell him the truth. She, Elena and Tatia are set to be married to men from the Capitol, wealthy and extremely powerful men. I am sure that President Snow will find some men for them so they can have their children. That is what he wants." "I don't believe it!" I told her, angrily.

"Believe what you want, Kol. This is the truth and I am sorry that it is coming from me and Elena didn't have a chance to tell you. Besides, she is looking forward to this. Being married and having the child of someone like President Snow's sons means everything in the world. It's a shame that Katherine was selected to participate in the games and most probably, will not survive, so President Snow wants to keep Tatia and Elena protected." I stood up from the table and left the house before Mother could stop me. I did not believe a word that she was saying. Elijah would have surely known about this if this was the reason that Katherine left him and this was stopping Elena from being with me. I had shown her many times before how much I wanted her but she would never show me anything back. Perhaps Mother was right. She was destined to be someone else for the Capitol. Just like we all have a purpose. I knocked on the door to the mansion where Elena, Tatia and their mother now lived. There was no answer, but the door was open, so I went inside, looking around the place. "Elena!" I called out to her.

Going up to her bedroom, I looked at her in shock as I saw in bed with another man, a man who looked a lot like the District 1 Capitol favorite all-time champion, Damon Salvatore. They were kissing and going at it like animals. I banged the door open and they abruptly stopped. Damon's eyes glowed with anger as Elena looked shocked that I was here and almost immediately put on her robe to cover herself and stood up from the bed. "What the hell are you doing here?" Damon raged and I was about to raise my fist and punch him when Elena shooed me out of the room. "Give me a minute." She told Damon and then, she closed the door behind her. She crossed her arms over her chest and I grabbed her by her shoulders. "What the hell is this, Elena?" "Who gave you the right to come in here like this? I should have you thrown out, Kol. You are a family friend and you know I care about you but you have crossed the line this time, coming into my house and into my room when you clearly see that I am with someone." "Spare me the lies. My mother told me everything about your deal with President Snow." Elena opened her mouth to speak and then she whispered, "He is taking care of me and making sure that I have a bright future ahead of me." "As what? As a baby-giver?" "Kol, it is none of your business." "Why didn't you tell me about this before? I could have gotten you out of this." Elena gently shook her head and said, "Kol, Damon is going to be my husband soon. I suggest you start accepting that. Now, please leave my house." She pointed to the door and I had no choice but to turn around and leave. I hated this feeling, the feeling which told me that I was not in control. Elena was supposed to be mine. Since we were smaller, people always said that we would be husband and wife one day, by choice. What was I going to do now?

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Second Day of Training**

Hayley was one of those women that you could not let have control, but couldn't help and let her have some. I called her "little wolf" as a way of symbolizing how strong and brave she was, matching her small tattoo on the side of her neck. I left her in that station, practicing with her bow, as I headed over to another place for something more important that needed to be done. "Brother!" I called out and Elijah finally looked up from his spear training and watched me smirk as his expression remained emotionless. "Hello, Niklaus. It has been a long time, hasn't it?" Elijah asked me and pulled up his spear for me to notice how sharp it was and that he was ready to use it. My brother was literally mocking me. I pulled up my sword and started to play along, as I paced in front of him. "You know that I…received a letter from mother the other day…a letter in which she specifically requested something from the two of us."

Mother's word had always meant everything to Elijah and he seemed more confused that she had been writing to me instead of him, I could tell. "What does she want?" Elijah finally asked. At last, I could notice the one and only, Katherine Pierce who was standing there, and was looking at the two of us curiously. I remembered a long while ago when I was intending on courting her, when Kol was always looking forward to getting together with her twin sister, Elena, before I realized that she only ever had eyes for Elijah, so I got together with Caroline instead. She was not the same Katherine Pierce that I remembered her to be. She was different. She was far less challenging, wild and sexy. Now, she looked like she was cautious and scared of anything, having Elijah as her protector. "I suppose she wants us to work together in the games. She has specifically requested that we form an alliance, in the name of our family." Elijah frowned when he heard this. I wasn't expecting him to go back on his mother's word and I knew that he wouldn't…but he wasn't willing to give me a straight answer now. He turned around and looked at Katherine as she was training on her own and then, he looked back at me.

"Right here, the only thing I care about is getting myself and Katerina out of this mess…so I will consider your proposition. Perhaps I shall give you a straight answer tonight…at the black and white party." Elijah suggested and I fake smiled at him and said, "As you wish…brother." I turned back around and noticed Hayley stopping what she was doing and watching me closely. I winked at her before turning around, and heading back to the sword section. "I saw that." Camille said to me as she came over. I groaned as her presence was more and more infuriating. "What exactly did you see? Me and my brother talking?" "No. You and Hayley talking…again. I hope you are planning the fastest way to take her down once we reach the arena because that is the report that I am going to offer Gora and our mentor as soon as we get out of here." I groaned and said, "Don't you have anything better to do, like, figure out what you are going to wear tonight? White if you're good, dark if you're bad." I smirked at her and she huffed.

As we finished our day, we set back the weapons that we had used to train. The colored woman came forward to us all and exclaimed, "I am very proud to call you all the tributes of this year's games! Most of you are doing just fine and you're already ready for the supreme test! The others, you still have two more training sessions in which you can improve your skills so don't fret! Have a nice day and I hope I will be seeing you all at the festive party our President Snow is throwing for us tonight!" I saw Hayley walk past me and towards Josh, the two of them heading to their mentor. I smirked as I knew that I would be seeing a lot of her for the next few days. But I didn't quite know what I was planning to do.

**A/N: The second training day has ended and in the next chapter, we are going to present the black and white party where the tributes will of course have to dress, in black and white. So, what do you think about Hayley and Klaus' relationship? What do you think about the relationship between Elijah and Katherine? Do you think it will ever go back to the way it was? What about Kol and Elena? Will Kol put an end to this madness and get the girl he wants? **


	9. 3rd Chapter Of Our Lives

**In the previous chapter, Klaus helped Hayley during their second day of training and Hayley had to face the consequences of interacting with her most dangerous opponent in the games, Niklaus Mikaelson. Klaus has had to deal with the letter from his mother, in the meantime, in which Esther told him that she wants him and his brother, Elijah to reconnect and be allies in the games. Mikael, Rebekah and Caroline had dinner together at the table and discovered Klaus' "intimate" interactions with Hayley during the first day of training, infuriating Mikael. Elijah and Katherine seem to be at odds like never before while Kol isn't having luck winning Elena over. **

**This chapter presents the black and white ball that the tributes will be attending, some dancing together, some acting as friends, some as enemies. It will become a real festive and interesting party with new interactions between Klaus and Hayley. Will everything go as expected or will there be chaos? What about the family members of the tributes in Districts 1, 2 and 12?**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Night of the Party**

I didn't have what it takes for this. I stood in front of the mirror and I was somehow trying to admire myself but there was no use. I was pretending to be someone I wasn't, while Jake and Lucy were at home, the hunger seeping through them. Who was going to take care of them if she didn't get home soon? I had only spent a couple of days here and it already felt like an eternity. I had made friends, enemies and everything you could possibly imagine. What now? What was I going to do next? I was going to attend a black and white ball where you mingle around and make people like you? I wasn't able to make my mom like me. How could I get sponsors if I am weak and can't socialize properly with people?

Effie eyed me for a moment and said, "Twirl." I rolled my eyes and shook my head. "Twirl, my dear!" she raised her voice and I knew that I had to do it this time. I did as she asked and twirled, showing off the black dress I was wearing. "Is this supposed to mean that I am not a good person?" I asked her and she frowned. Rona came inside the room at that time and smiled. "I know what you're thinking, Hayley. Don't worry! I can guarantee you that the bad girls attract the sponsors more. You are a bad girl, in the field I mean. And look at you. You're wearing a One Shoulder Black Chiffon Long Night Dress. How lucky are you? " I shook my head at that one. "You have it all wrong, Rona. I am weak." "No you're not! You just haven't discovered too much about yourself yet!" Josh called out to me, as he was arranging his tie. Kieran came inside to watch us and nodded at me. "He's right, you know. You need to start believing in yourself, Hayley. I know you can do it. You can win sponsors tonight." "By saying what in particular? The only thing that I have attracted so far is trouble." I responded.

"How about you just put a smile on your face and be happy with the time you have for fun. You will be working again tomorrow and the day after the tomorrow before you get in the arena. Be careful who you attract tonight. You need to find people you can count on the field. You need to find people who you can trust." Effie said to me. She looked over at me and clasped her hands together. "Darling, you look magnificent. I am sure that you will catch the eye of every single boy there is out there." Kieran decided to intervene and he said harshly, "Hayley is not here to find herself a boyfriend, Effie!" "You know what I mean. I was simply telling her that she looked magnificent that everyone will be looking at her." I had a feeling that Kieran was going to start again with that type of conversation and he did. He came over to me and looked at me directly in the eyes. "I want no funny business out there with the Mikaelson brothers, do you understand me?" "Yes, I get it. I know what I have to do." "Then why have you been seeing Niklaus Mikaelson?" Josh asked me. "Are you crazy? I have not been seeing him. He happens to take an interest in me and helps me during training. I need someone like him. What's the big deal here?" "The big deal is that you need to understand what is at stake here." "I do understand. The only thing that I care about is getting home to my brother and my sister. They need me." I said, suddenly on the verge of shedding tears.

The others were watching me closely as I instantly grabbed a napkin and wiped away my tears, breathing in deeply. I felt Josh put his hands on my shoulder and whisper, "I get your pain. I feel the same way. All of us feel the same way." Kieran nodded and handed me another napkin. "If you want to stay alive and get back home to your brother and your sister, I can guarantee you that you need to keep your head in the game. I don't want you to go anywhere near Niklaus Mikaelson." I stood there and looked at him before nodding and leaving the room, dragging my dress behind me. After washing my face and letting Rona apply make-up, I realized that I didn't look so bad after all. This might just work for tonight.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Night of the Party**

The night was young and all I could picture inside of my head was the hidden letter that my mother had sent me. I knew she was scared for me, scared for Rebekah as she was alone, having to deal with Mikael's outbursts. I looked at the letter once more, trying to make myself understand why my mother would possibly want me to trust Elijah in this mess. I didn't need him. I was more than capable of bringing him down in seconds. For the games, I needed stronger allies, to protect myself. There was a knock on the door and Camille stepped inside. The way she was prancing around in her goody-two-shoes white dress was making me roll my eyeballs another time. "Have I told you that you could come in?" I asked her bitterly. She turned around and smirked at me. "No. But you did said that I should knock before I enter and I did." She responded. "That makes no difference. I could have been without a shirt."

She noticed the grin on my face and frowned. "You're hilarious. What are you planning on doing tonight anyway? It'll be a waste of time for you. You already have sponsors, pardon me, women sponsors who are more than willing to help you without you even asking them. Your presence tonight is pointless." "Getting a tad bit jealous, are we, love? It certainly isn't my fault you're hobbies happen to be burying your nose in books. Knowledge can only get you half way. You are going to need strength and muscles in the next part of your task to succeed. That is something you don't have." "Which is why I need you." "No thank you, love. I am not a willing participant." Camille groaned and stepped over to him with her hands crossed over her chest. "You have to be!" "Is that an order that you are offering a Mikaelson?" I stepped over to her with my angry expression, which made Camille take two steps back. How dare she talk to me like that?

The door opened and Gora walked inside, rolling her eyes at the angry looks on her tributes' faces. "What is going on here? You have to be ready to be at the party in an hour! I want smiles and your mentor would like sponsors, if you please." I smirked. "I don't think I am the problem here. You should be addressing to Ms. Perkinson here." Camille stomped out of the room at that moment and I couldn't help but chuckle at her attitude. Gora eyed me with a frown. "She is your partner." "I never asked for her to be the one. I think I would have had a better chance controlling my ex-girlfriend than her." I replied, thinking about another blonde that used to get on my nerves but used to have as a girlfriend, Caroline. Even now I wondered if she did get the message of our break-up or she was still holding onto hope. "You don't get to control as partners. You work together to kill the other tributes. If you would let go of your pride and ego, you would realize that even though Camille doesn't have many chances to win, she does posed qualities that you might need." Gora explained and I smirked once more. "So, you are practically asking me to stop being rude to her and use her? She is a tribute of this district and I thought that she should get as many chances to win as I do." "But she is not a Mikaelson, dear." Gora ended with a smile on her face.

Vincent, my mentor entered the room and came over to arrange my tie. "You are indeed a Mikaelson and everyone, including your father is expecting you to win." "I am not the only Mikaelson in this competition." I reminded him and he shook his head. "Elijah does not have the same pride and he is not as worthy of the name Mikaelson as you are. He was raised by your mother. Your mother is a Mikaelson through marriage but not by blood." "Elijah is still my mother's son and my brother." Vincent sighed and handed me a letter. "It's from your father. You better read it now. It is said to be delivered to you as a very important note. I will leave you to it." The envelope was ripped and I growled. "Have you read this?" I asked my mentor and he shook his head, saying. "I haven't but it had to be inspected to make sure that it was safe before handing it over to a tribute." I nodded, but still pissed at his ideas. Who needed him as my mentor? Who needed my mother? Who needed Elijah? Certainly not me. I could win this war all on my own. I made my way out of the hotel room with the letter opened.

_I thought I had told you that your main purpose in this competition is winning. You do not make any friends, you make only alliances. You better watch out, boy! There are cameras everywhere and you have been seen on television teaching the female from District 12 how to use a sword. I am greatly disappointed in you…but for the sake of you being my son, I am more than willing to rectify this mistake of yours and you make sure it does not happen again. You also had Caroline see you with that girl on television. What impression do you think it gave her? _

_As for your brother competing with you, you have nothing to worry about. I spoke with your mentor and he knows just how to play it. Elijah stopped being my son the minute he was taken to be raised by Esther. Show that you are indeed your father's son and get in the center of the attention, be the best. That is what a Mikaelson does._

_Be prepared for anything and don't let me down! Don't destroy my legacy and show that you have true Mikaelson blood inside of you, my son!_

The letter had no name but I knew at once from the words chosen it was definitely my father. So what if he had seen me with her on television? The whole point of this event was to manipulate others and catch them off guard before killing them. This was exactly what I was doing. And Caroline? I groaned when I realized that Mikael had just as a hard time believing that I didn't consider her as my girlfriend any longer, as she did. He claimed that should make my family proud because I had Mikaelson blood in me. If he only knew the truth…that I was not his real son and that my mother had lied to him. What would happen to me? What would happen to Rebekah? Father had always managed to take his anger out on either one of us when he felt like it. I had to protect her. There was no possible way that I would let her become the target of Mikael's anger. Rebekah is the only woman I ever truly loved. She is my sister, my best friend and the only one in my family who could ever possibly understand my strengths and my weaknesses. I looked over at the letter, frowning before crumbling it up and throwing it in a garbage can I found in the hallway. Before I could return to my dorm, I heard footsteps approaching and I saw her. A grin appeared on my face as I had forgotten all about Mikael's letter in seconds.

She looked absolutely stunning in a black night dress. "Ready for the spectacular attention you will be receiving, little wolf?" I murmured as I crossed his hands over my chest and lay against the wall to watch her more closely. Attention. I had thought about it myself and it seemed like she would be once again stealing the spotlight with her beauty. Hayley looked over at me as she stopped walking and rolled her eyes, wanting to go on but I grabbed a hold of her hand to stop her, pulling her away from the place where most people would probably see them. I had no intention of creating chaos and I didn't want any more disappointment letters from Mikael. "What do you want, Klaus?" Hayley sighed and tapped her heels. He shrugged and smirked. "Perhaps I am more than looking forward to sharing a dance with you this evening." She looked at me, smiling for a moment before shaking her head and whispering, "That is not going to happen. And stop calling me little wolf. I do not want to hear it." She moved to leave but I wouldn't let her and grabbed her hand again, keeping her in place. I could tell that she wanted to stay…but there was something preventing her from giving in to her wishes.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Right before the Party**

"I presume that you have been offered some lectures after been seen with the enemy during class." He threw that puppy face at me which immediately sent me laughing without wanting. I placed my hand on my forehead; still with a smile on my face when I realized that there was no way that I was going to get rid of him now. I really asked for this myself. I was supposed to leave him alone and mind my own business but he had knowledge about the games that I could really use in order to win and get back home to Lucy and Jake. Now that I had him interested, I wasn't going to back down. If manipulating opponents was his strategy, why couldn't it be mine as well? He may have the name of Mikaelson, but that didn't mean that his mind was working as rapidly as mine was. Still, there would always be something about him that would leave me without words, and make me feel the way I never felt before. This was why I had to remind myself to be careful around him. I couldn't risk being exposed.

"Yes, I have, Klaus. And please stop calling me little wolf." I told him. His smile disappeared and he put on a pouty and adorable face. "What's the problem, sweetheart? We both know that you can't find a pet name better than that." "And why is that?" He got closer to me with that smile on his face, whispering, "Because you're gorgeous, smart, you have the heart of a wolf, you're just as cunning as one. I happen to love the pleasure of your company, the company of such a remarkable woman." He was laying the charm on thick, I had to admit that but I wasn't going to fall for it. "Thank you for the compliments, but they are not going to get you anywhere with me, unfortunately." I tried moving past him but he stopped me once again and I felt mesmerized by the way he was studying my features. What was he up to?

"Am I to understand that the reason why you're backing away from this is due to the advice of your mentor to stay away from the big bad Mikaelson?" "You understood correctly. Kieran wants to help me and he has been giving me very helpful advice so far. If I am supposed to stay away from you during these games, I will do so." "Afraid of a challenge, love?" I smirked. "Who said that I was afraid? I am simply doing my best to survive in a very cruel and cold world. I have been on my own for many years, having the need to look out or myself while you have been pampered and spoiled by your rich parents. We come from two different worlds and that is not going to change. Knowing your past and knowing your father, even if Kieran hadn't advised me, I would have still preferred to stay away from you." I could see his smirk being replaced with a frown on his beautiful masculine features. He didn't like what he was hearing from me but it was the truth and I was not going to back out now just because I made him feel bad. I still couldn't understand his obsession with me. Maybe this was just his tactic, trying to get me to let my guard down so he could have me where he wanted. That was not going to happen. "Enjoy the party." I finally whispered and left, walking faster down the hall than I ever had before.

Like I said before, there was something about him that was just fascinating. He was supposed to be the enemy for me, I understand that, but he hasn't acted like my enemy so far. Moreover, it looked like he has always tried to befriend me after our little incident in the training center. I closed my eyes and remembered Kieran's words.

"_Darling, you look magnificent. I am sure that you will catch the eye of every single boy there is out there." Kieran decided to intervene and he said harshly, "Hayley is not here to find herself a boyfriend, Effie!" "You know what I mean. I was simply telling her that she looked magnificent that everyone will be looking at her." I had a feeling that Kieran was going to start again with that type of conversation and he did. He came over to me and looked at me directly in the eyes. "I want no funny business out there with the Mikaelson brothers, do you understand me?" "Yes, I get it. I know what I have to do." "Then why have you been seeing Niklaus Mikaelson?" Josh asked me. "Are you crazy? I have not been seeing him. He happens to take an interest in me and helps me during training. I need someone like him. What's the big deal here?" "The big deal is that you need to understand what is at stake here." "I do understand. The only thing that I care about is getting home to my brother and my sister. They need me." I said, suddenly on the verge of shedding tears. "I get your pain. I feel the same way. All of us feel the same way." Kieran nodded and handed me another napkin. "If you want to stay alive and get back home to your brother and your sister, I can guarantee you that you need to keep your head in the game. I don't want you to go anywhere near Niklaus Mikaelson."_

Nowhere near Niklaus Mikaelson, they all said. I rubbed my hands together nervously as I looked in a mirror and noticed how indeed wonderful I looked arranged by Effie and Rona. This was my night and I had to do whatever it took to look my best. Sponsors were something I needed to get back home to my family. Lucy and Jake were now waiting for me. "I will be back." I promised in a whisper.

**District 1: Kol Mikaelson**

**The Night of the 2****nd**** Day**

I stormed inside the house and noticed Mother was preparing dinner for me. "I guess it's just us tonight once more, huh?" I asked her and she preferred not to say anything. I sighed and set down my coat, sitting down on a chair at the table and turning on the TV to see any more news on Elijah. My brother was not mentioned. The other brother…the one I had not seen in so long, Nik…he was everywhere. He was the new fan favorite to winning the games, Elijah being in second place right after him. I knew damn well what made Nik so pleasant to the eye. It was his way with the ladies, his devilish charming way in which he got what he wanted. I smirked as I realized how alike the two of us have always been.

"How did it go?" Mother suddenly asked me and I looked at her with my eyebrows raised. "You want to know how it went with Elena dearest." I asked her and set down my cup of wine. "As a matter of fact, yes, Kol, I do. I care about you. You are my son and I don't want you to get hurt. I was hoping that you would understand the situation from the first time. I know you have always held some sort of affection for Elena for a very long time…but you have to come to accept…that she will never choose you." "I do not wish to talk about it, Mother." "Then what do you suppose we do this evening? We simply eat? You are the only son I have left and…" "No, don't start that with me again. You have me, you have Elijah and you have Rebekah and Niklaus." Esther gulped and I could see her hands trembling. "Rebekah and Niklaus are no longer my children, unfortunately." I nodded and smirked. "I know you don't mean that." "I do." "Really? Is that why you wrote Nik a letter and sent it to the Capitol? I didn't know that we were allowed to be in contact with the tributes." "Only the ones from Districts 1 and 2 have special privileges, my son."

"I see." I whispered and drank a gulp of beer. "So, enough about me and my former obsession with Elena." "Former? What happened, Kol?" Mother suddenly jumped me and I looked at her, surprised that she would want to know so much. "What do you care?" "I care about your feelings. I am your mother. Tell me what happened." "Simple. I caught her in bed with that Salvatore guy, Damon." Esther nodded. "Yes. That is the man that she had been set to be with by Professor Snow." "So he is taking advantage of their beauty?" "It is not like that, Kol. You wouldn't understand." "What is there to understand? Where is Tatia?" "She left a while ago. She was given permission to marry a very important man in this district." "Damn, Mother, I don't care any longer." I stood up and walked towards my room but she came after me and held on my arm. "I want to help you. If you need anything, I want to be there for you."

"Mother, you are desperate that you are never going to see Elijah again. You are desperate because you know that you are going to lose at least one son in these games this year. Nik or Elijah. I know you love them both and you still love Rebekah as well." "You are my top priority now." Esther insisted and the more I looked at my mother, she seemed like she was really possessed. I gulped and patted her back whispering, "Mother, why don't you lay down on the couch for a moment, alright?" I set her down and watched her go to sleep. What the hell was I going to do? I knew at that moment that if either Elijah or Nik would die, she would never get over it. She might even lose her mind.

To be selected in the games meant glory but for others, I knew what it really meant. We had no choice. Nik would have made it out of this, had he not volunteered. I had to do something. I felt like I had to do something in order to get this family back the way it was. There was nothing left now for me to stay here and do nothing. I had even lost the fight for Elena. I had to get my family to depend on me. And there was only one way to do it. I didn't know what had come over me the moment I picked up the phone and called him. "Good evening, sir! This is Kol Mikaelson." _"Yes, I know you. One of Mikael's sons, of course." _"Yes. The reason why I was calling is because…well, I was hoping that you would do me a favor, in the name of the Mikaelson family." I responded.

**District 2: Rebekah Mikaelson**

**The Night of the 2****nd**** Day**

I set down my phone and looked at the television screen where I could see Flickerman laugh and do his casual thing of a show. I sighed and slumped in my chair as I thought about my brothers out there. If there was a way that I could do something to help, I surely would do it. I could hear scratches around the room and I saw Father enter the kitchen where I was. "Rebekah, I wish to hear more of that. Louder." Mikael exclaimed and I turned on the volume. There really was nothing much that could be heard. There was their festive black and white party tonight. They would both be there. The only thing I hoped was for this one time, Nik and Elijah to put aside their differences and help one another. We have always been a united family. Why should the separation of our parents stop us from continuing that?

"I hope that son of mine received my letter." Mikael growled as he sat down at the table with me. I frowned. "He received a letter from you? Why? What did you say?" I asked, curiously. "I told him to keep his head in the game and to stop fooling around with women, especially women who happen to be tributes from other districts." I laughed and shook my head. "You know Nik has always been one with the ladies. Either way, the games have always been his top priority since he has volunteered. He volunteered for this family. You should at least be proud of him for that. He broke up with Caroline…" "That he did. I still cannot believe it. She was a suitable girl for him." "Why? Because she is rich and pretty?" "Precisely. No son of mine is going to get married to a woman with no wealth, much less from another district." I pursed my lips. "And what about me? To whom are you going to marry me? To some rich fellow who cares only about my last name and my looks? I want someone to love me for me, Father." I told him.

Mikael chuckled as he started eating and looked at me curiously. "Since when do you care about love? All that you have done was to ignore it for the past few years. You had not wanted to get in a relationship with anyone. The only thing that you had managed to do was have two one night stands with that fellow, Damon Salvatore, President Snow's council's son. Not to mention that he is from District 1. This was unacceptable." I scoffed and looked out the window. "The man took advantage of me twice when I was drunk and lonely. Give me a break, Father." He slammed his fists on the table and stood up. "I shall not give you a break, Rebekah! You are my daughter by blood and as long as you have that Mikaelson blood running through your veins, you will not disappoint or make a mockery of me or this family. Do I make myself clear?" he was raging and I slowly nodded, to make him relax. Instead, he picked up his food and went to his room to eat. The phone was ringing and of course, I had to get it this time.

"Hello?" I asked as I spoke through the phone. _"Is this Rebekah Mikaelson?" _A cold and groggy voice asked and I whispered, "Yes, this is she. Who is this?" _"It is President Snow speaking to you."_ I bit my lip and asked, "Yes, sir! What can I do for you? Would you like to speak to my father?" _"No. It is actually you to whom I wanted to speak to. You see, I received a very interesting call from someone earlier. Someone who might interest you. He asked me for a favor, one that I am willing to grant him but it is this favor which I would also like to grant you."_ I frowned as I listened more carefully.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Party Had Begun**

I was standing in the crowd, looking nervous as I saw pampered people all around me. I was not used to this kind of lifestyle but they all were. Josh came up from behind me and offered me a grin. "Isn't this a blast?" he asked me as we looked around the place. "It's definitely majestic…but I feel like I don't belong here. What is the point of having these parties anyway? We are going to be dead soon enough…all of us." I whispered. Josh frowned and stepped in front of me. "What is with that attitude? You are supposed to get back to your brother and sister remember?" "The more I think of it, the less possible it seems." Josh nodded and smiled. "I think it's best if you could be more optimistic this time. The games have not even started and President Snow has the ability to change the rules anytime." He explained to me. "And what do you suggest?" "This is why we are having these parties, Hayley. It's not for fun. It's for the chance to get stronger allies that don't necessarily mean tributes. Think about it."

He looked very convincing, I had to give him credit for that, but after the way President Snow treated my district for years and blamed it for the disasters of the revolutions throughout history, I was not about to become friends with him. I was not having it. I smiled at Josh and whispered, "If our objective is to gain sponsors, then why don't you go out there and mingle? You could get someone to help you." He smiled at me and shook his head. "No one would really be interested in sponsoring me. There is nothing about me that draws attention…unlike you." I shook my head. "I think you're wasting your time standing here and talking to me." "Well, we are partners for better or for worse in these games. I have to help you in some way. I want to be someone you can rely on." "And I thank you for that. I thank you and my whole team. Kieran, Effie, Rona…they have all been wonderful to me. But I am just not sure it's enough."

Josh fidgeted as he looked around and sighed, "Then what are we going to do?" "I say that you take care of yourself for now. I will be fine. Go because your life is not less important than mine." "But you have something to go back to. You have a little sister and a little brother, Hayley." "And I love them with all my heart but you have a family too. You must find a way to get back to them too. I know you will find a way and I will help you, because you're my friend." I offered him a hug, which he graciously accepted and then moved away with a smile, into the crowd. I was laughing as I saw him trying to seduce some women that did have money to sponsor him. Who would have thought that he would stoop so low? "Hello again." Came that seducing whisper and I felt his cold breath on my neck. He was standing there in a black tux as I turned around. "What is it now, Klaus?" I asked and crossed my hands over my chest.

He smirked as he looked around surprised for a few minutes at the melody which was one of the known singer, Katy Perry, Dark Horse. He held out his hand to me and the grin never left his face and whispered, "A dance, little wolf." My heart started beating faster as he said what he did and I had no idea how I should be acting. Should I give in to what he wanted, or should I just fight back and refuse bluntly. Before I could make up my mind, he was already dragging me onto the dance floor where there were other people dancing. His lips ghosted over to my left ear as he whispered, "It's a dance, love. Relax and enjoy it. Don't be so tense." "I am not tense!" I snapped at him, a bit angry that I let my guard down again. Klaus chuckled as he pulled his lips back from my ear and looked at me deep in the eyes. "Is something bothering you, little wolf?" "A lot of things about you are bothering. For instance, I don't want to hear any more of that pet name you have for me. I don't want anyone else to hear it."

"I take it those are some of the orders that have been given to you by your mentor." "Don't start that with me again. We have been given mentors because they know better and they have been in the games before. It gives us a chance to see things from their perspective." "It gives us a chance of winning, the better the mentor, of course." Klaus told me and I smirked. "What? Are you suddenly suggesting that you could have a better mentor than me? You have no idea of the knowledge Kieran possessed." "You insinuated this, love. I was not suggesting a thing." I growled a little and he once again chuckled. We simply danced and for once, I actually followed his advice and tried to clear my head, my listening to the beautiful melody and swaying back and forth with him. The rhythm was amazing and he was a very good dancer. "Hmm." I sighed for a moment, unintentionally and his smile widened, making slap myself mentally for doing that. The music continued to play and our bodies were feeling closer by the second.

"_So, you wanna play with magic…boy you should know what you're falling for. Baby, do you dare to do this, cause I'm coming at you like a dark horse. Are you ready for…ready for…a perfect storm…a perfect storm?" _

Klaus was infuriating me without a doubt, but there was something so beautiful about him, when I looked into his eyes, that I loved. There was a real mystery, behind this cold exterior of his and I always loved mysteries, especially when I had the chance to unravel them. "I am not supposed to be the discussing the games and the training with any tribute." I whispered to him. "Very well. I suggest we don't talk about the games. We could talk about something else." I smiled and looked away from his eyes so I wouldn't feel overwhelmed as he gripped my waist tighter, pulling me closer to him. "I don't trust you enough to share personal information with you." Klaus smiled at me and let one hand go of my waist, which gently went up my back and to my neck, making me shiver and silently gasp. He smiled at my reaction and I silently cursed myself. I knew the spot he touched on my neck. "Tell me what this tattoo's story is, little wolf." I opened my mouth to talk but I closed it again and shook my head. "Please. If you are going to share something me with me, at least share that. It's all I'm asking." Klaus told me.

The way he begged me to tell him, showed a lot of sincerity in his voice. He truly wanted to know. It wasn't part of any scheme to manipulate me in any way. He just wanted to know about the tattoo. I placed my hand back there as well and our fingers touched for one moment before I pulled my hand back and looked away from him, whispering, "If you must know, I had this tattoo made the moment my father died." I bit my lip as I continued talking. "He always used to call me 'little wolf'. It was his nickname for me. He called me 'little wolf' because I was acting just like one. He told me I had a strong heart, who fights hard for survival." I looked back into his eyes and saw concern in them for the first time. "I'm sorry, love." He whispered as the melody ended and we stopped dancing. The minute of concern was gone and his regular face was back as he noticed that there were people watching us. I noticed that as well and a blush crept on my cheeks. I wasn't used to having people stare at me like this.

"Follow me." Klaus simply stated and started walking. I had no idea what had gotten into me. It was like my mind had no control over my body any longer. What was I doing? Why was I following him? I wasn't supposed to. I told Kieran and Josh that I would stay away from him but I wasn't. I said that I would do anything to receive sponsors tonight and I didn't. I wasn't even sure if there were people sponsoring me. I had appeared on television a couple of times but that was all Rona's doing with the costumes for me and Josh at the tribute parade. I knew he could hear my footsteps behind him but I finally made the decision to stop and he stopped as well, turning around to look at me. "Klaus, listen…I can't go with you. I want to go back." "I thought that those people made you feel uncomfortable." He said and stepped over to me. "They did. But it wouldn't have happened if I had not danced with you. I have a job to do tonight. I will get it done as I have been asked to." "By your mentor?" "Yes…something for myself and my survival."

The minute I tried to leave, I felt his hand grab mine and keep me in place. I was turned around and his fast breathing fanned over my face as I gasped when I landed right into his chest and he was grinning at me from ear to ear. There was something about that grin. It was not snarky and it was not mean or rude in any way. It actually managed to put a smile on my face too as he bent forward and kissed my hand softly, sending chills down my spine again. "It was a pleasure dancing with you, Hayley Marshall." Before I could respond to his lovely gesture, he let my hand go and turned around, leaving me standing there. "What are you doing, Hayley?" I whispered to myself in shock.

**A/N: This is it for now. In the next chapter we will go to Elijah's POV more and find out of what he has been going through and how does his relationship with Katherine stand. As for Klayley, something is happening already and Hayley could sense it the most in her. The party has just begun and there will be more of this black and white ball in the next chapter with the third day of training. **

**Thanks for reading and please leave a review and tell me what you think!**


	10. Training Day 3

**The third day of training will follow as the Black and White Ball comes to an end. Klaus and Hayley have discovered new things about one another in the last chapter and whether Hayley chooses to admit it or not, Niklaus Mikaelson, the one who is to be her biggest enemy on the field, is getting under her skin and she can't shake him off. In the meantime, Rebekah and Kol have both been called by the one and only President Snow who has a tempting offer for them. **

**In this chapter, Hayley will be highly questioned by Kieran and Josh, as she tries to blend in and get some chances at sponsors to support her during the games, as Klaus will get in some drunken trouble. Elijah has to deal with a very secretive Katherine and makes a connection someone from the brother district who intrigues him. The third day of training will present a twist in the games and in the Mikaelson family, which will cause Elijah and Klaus to get closer as Hayley tries to stay away from Klaus. Will she really succeed in doing that?**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Night of the Party**

Heading back to the party has never been so much of a relief for me. Klaus Mikaelson was one of those people who could easily confuse you and make you think that you're the only one in his mind. I growled as I remembered how easily insufferable and obnoxious he was. Just because his father was some great champion, his whole family believes that they are untouchable. And for the fact alone that they all suck up to President Snow and his rules for more values, just makes them the enemy you should stay clear of. My family has never seen such luxury that was presented here at the Capitol, nor will they ever.

More and more, I was starting to believe that I will never get back to Jake and Lucy. They meant so much to me and to just disappoint them like that, made me feel horrible. They needed me to be with them. We had no parents. Of course we needed to stick together. There was a soft melody, Stay by Rihanna playing in the background as I slowly got to a wall and laid my head on it, closing my eyes. Almost at once, there was a hand on my shoulder and I quickly turned around, in shock. "Oh, Josh, you scared me!" I exclaimed but couldn't look at him in the eye. I had a good idea about who it could have been, but I couldn't tell him that, nor could I tell anyone else.

"I saw you dancing with Mikaelson." Josh stated simply and put his hands in his pockets. I bit my lip and looked at him, opening my mouth to say something but nothing came out. "Come on! What is going on with you, Hayley? How can you go behind Kieran's back like this? He is your mentor and he is trying to help both of us survive." "And you still have hope that both of us can survive in the games?" I asked him with a frown. Josh nodded, "Of course I have. It's happened before. What's to say that it won't happen again and what if we won't be the only ones to survive?" "Keep your voice down. You are talking nonsense." I whispered to him. "Fine! You start talking now about that dance." "Has Kieran saw it?" "No. But I am going to find him and tell him. I have to Hayley, for your own sake. You are playing with fire."

Grabbing a hold of his arm, I stopped him in his tracks. "Josh, you won't do that! Please, try to understand that it was a simple dance." "Just a dance? Hayley, you don't dance with the guy who is most known for killing anyone who gets in his way. The same goes for his brother. The Mikaelsons are the most dangerous people you can meet and somehow, you have become attracted to one brother!" Josh was getting angrier, I could tell. But there was also something about the tone of his voice that wasn't normal for him. Josh didn't usually speak to her like this. And he would never tell on her about anything. "Josh, how much have you been drinking?" I asked me at once, having a tighter hold of him. "Hayley, let go of me!" Josh warned me and started pulling but I pulled him back. I knew that this was dangerous and I had to find Kieran as quickly as possible.

As people continued to dance, Josh finally managed to pull his hand free and he started walking through the crowd. "Josh!" I called out after him and covered my mouth with my hand as I realized that with his drunken behavior, he could get himself into some serious trouble. Kieran warned him about his drinking problem. I found my mentor sitting on a bench with Effie and was out of breath when I reached them both. Effie groaned and stood up, touching my dress. "Sweetheart, if you start running like a mad cow, you know that you are going to ruin this." I ignored her and looked at Kieran. "Something is wrong with Josh. I think he drank too much and he is out of control. He can hurt someone." I told him and he quickly stood up, as we went back to the place where we last saw Josh.

What I saw literally made my heart stop. Josh had reached Klaus, who was talking to a sponsor of his and punched him in the face, knocking him on the ground. Klaus stood up in turn like it was nothing and punched him right back, as a fight began and the crowd parted so that they could watch them, instead of stopping them. The music was stopped and there were footsteps that could be heard which I could only guess were the Peace Makers coming over here to stop the racket. Kieran put himself in between the two as Klaus' mouth was smudged with blood underneath it and Josh had a bloody blow on his forehead. "Josh, what is wrong with you?" Kieran hissed and dragged him back to me. The punched that Klaus had given him must have gotten him back to his senses, because he looked fine now.

"I don't know what happened." He mumbled and looked at me with shock in his eyes, shamed of his attitude and what he could do. Kieran shook his head and poured him a glass of water. "Have you no shame? What will the public think of you now, as a drunker? We came here so both of you would find sponsors and so far, you are both greatly disappointing me. You are drinking, while you are dancing with your greatest enemy, whom you promised you would stay away from." He was angry at both of us now. I knew something like this would happen. My eyes caught Klaus' own curious ones and I quickly looked away from him. But I could see out of the corner of my eye, that blonde girl, Camille helping his wound with some water. "You two are damn lucky that President Snow is not here tonight, but he will be at the Masked Ball, tomorrow." "Kieran, we can handle this…" I tried saying but he snapped at me.

"Hayley, I don't want to hear any more. We will talk more seriously when we get back to the hotel. We have eyes watching us all around here and what we need to talk about are private things. For now, the two of you pull yourselves together and salvage what is left of this great opportunity to get sponsors. Lots of luck to you, Josh! I am going to retire. I will see you both in the penthouse later this night." He didn't even bother to say goodnight to us and he walked away. "Rude." Josh whispered as he drank his water and I looked at him angrily. "Have you lost your mind? He is right to be angry with you. How can you lose sight that your life is at stake here? How can you just drink?" "How can you just dance with a Mikaelson?" Josh asked me and I sucked air in my cheeks. "That hasn't affected me in my mission here. What you did, affected you greatly and don't think that I am going to help you now." I poured some water for myself and walked away from him, greatly disappointed. What I realized that I was more angry about was that he decided to pick a fight with Klaus Mikaelson out of all people. Who knew what he could be thinking about me now? Wait, what am I saying? How is it possible that I care what he thinks?

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Night of the Party**

Surprise took over me the minute that boy from 12 had the nerve to come up to me and punch me in front of my new sponsor. I chuckled as I thought about it now. The poor guy probably lost all of his chances, while I gained sympathy from the people, not that I really needed something like that. Of course, as always, people were all over me, trying to get the bleeding to stop, including Camille. I couldn't stop her and she was heading me over to a fountain, where she offered me something to help with the pain. "I suppose I should thank you for this, love." I told her with a smirk as she rolled her eyes. "I do need you in one piece out there. Like you said, books are only going to get me half of the way." She commented before walking away. I chuckled as she walked away, but now that I really cared. It was not her concern that I was dying to have.

It was as if she had read my mind and her beautiful self was standing there in front of me, looking unsure about whether or not she should come over to me or not. Finally, I saw her pulling on her bottom lip and stepping over. I put down the leaves of the plant Camille offered me as I saw her coming over with something so much simpler and less sophisticated. Ice and a piece of cloth. "Fancy seeing you here, little wolf." I whispered and she blushed at my pet name for her. She mustered up all of her courage to sit next to me on the fountain and hand me the ice for my mouth and busted lip. "I came here to apologize for him. He was drunk and he wasn't looking for trouble." "It's fine with me, love, but if he wishes to make it to the big day when we get thrown in the arena, you should tell him to stay clear of me. You said it yourself. I have already been trained by the best in all of Panem."

I watched a beautiful smile crawl on her face as she whispered, "I will let him know." She stood up but I grabbed a hold of her hand and stood up too. She groaned and turned around. "I knew that if I would speak with you for a few seconds, you wouldn't leave me alone afterwards." A grin appeared on my face as I said, "Well if you knew, little wolf, why did you still come here?" "Because what Josh did to you was not fair play and I wanted you to know that he was drunk and had no idea what he was doing so you wouldn't punish him for it." "Protective the boyfriend, I see. That's your interest." "Don't be ridiculous. He is not my boyfriend." She hissed at me and pulled her hand away from mine. "Relax, sweetheart, I was simply teasing you. You have nothing to worry about." I walked away from her but I could feel her footsteps following me. "Not enough time that you've enjoyed the pleasure of my company?" I asked her and she once again revealed her beautiful blush. "I want you to teach me!" She suddenly said.

Saying that, made me turn around completely to her with a surprised look on my face. "What do you wish for me to teach you?" I asked her. "You showed me what I am good at. I have a couple of skills that I inherited from my father and you claim that you have been trained by the best fighters in all of Panem, so I want you to teach me how to fight properly." "With the bows and arrows that you refused earlier?" "Because they make me look like someone I am not." "Katniss Everdeen?" I asked her with a smirk. She nodded and I was pleasantly surprised that she was confessing all of these feelings building up inside of her to me. "I hope you haven't forgotten that you mentor has clearly stated that you should be staying away from me." I said and went closer to her, shocking her as I caressed her face. "I am a dangerous man." I told her once more as she shivered from my touch. At once, she pulled my hand away from her face and looked at me directly in the eyes. "You're a dangerous man that I can handle and you owe me for that ice treatment." She pointed at the cloth I was still holding.

"Very well. But make sure that you don't make this a habit of yours, little wolf. I am not one to do many favors." "I can see that, which is why I think this is going to do you some good to the messed up life you have." Her responses were beginning to intrigue me more and more. It was as if I was in therapy and she could see right through me. "What are you talking about?" I asked her in barely a whisper. "I can see it through your life that you have trouble with normal human relations. You always act as if you can't trust anyone but yourself." "That is what this competition is for, love, you look out for yourself here. You don't make friends." I smirked at her. "But you can't win if you don't have allies." She insisted. I believed that I have given her too much of a free pass in my life and that was about to change. "I don't need anyone." I told her menacingly and growled, turning around and leaving. She didn't even try to stop me and I was glad. Perhaps it was time that we went on our separate ways. What was I hoping to gain from her anyway? The original plan was to have her vulnerable for the games, not for her to stick around and me to show her how to thrown in good punches and knock an enemy on the ground dead.

Camille was waiting back on the dance floor with her hands on her hips. "Talking to her again? You know, you are going to get Gora and Vincent so upset one that that they are just going to give up on you. And your father mustn't be happy seeing you with someone from 12. What are you pulling here, Klaus? I thought we had an agreement." "Yes, we do have one. I will protect your skin out there in exchange for you staying out of my personal life." "So now, she is in your personal life? When did that happen?" she asked me. "Camille, if you don't stop talking…I am going to rip your arm off." I growled at her and pushed her away, retreating to my room. "You don't have to be so cruel to me." she yelled back. I had heard enough bullshit to last me for the night. Slouching on the sofa, I cursed myself as I closed my eyes and her face, with dark brown hair and hazel eyes appeared in front of me. "She is no one." I growled at myself, going into my room and slamming the door shut, hoping I would get rid of these thoughts.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**The Night of the Party**

I had not seen much of Niklaus on this spectacular night, although it was hard to miss the moment he and some boy started punching each other in the faces, right in front of the most important people at the Capitol. I shook my head, drinking the champagne. What would Father think of him if he appeared on the news the next day? I had not seen Father for years, due to his separation from our mother, which drove us to District 1. Drinking my champagne slowly, I looked around, hoping I would see Katerina, but she was once again, nowhere to be found. She was sick, I could tell very well that she was and she was not letting me help her with a doctor or even with my own presence. I started moving through the crowd and trying to reach the women's lavatory until I bumped into someone and I could feel this woman spilling her drink on her dress. "Hey!" she exclaimed, angrily, as she looked over her dress.

"My deepest apologies…" I began saying, thinking that perhaps I had to do with a sponsor, but she was no sponsor. She was young, a fighter from the deadly look in her gleaming eyes and she had gorgeous blonde hair tumbling over her shoulders, as her hands ran over her white dress. The number 2 was shown on her shoulder and I could finally remember this girl. It was Camille, the tribute who was fighting for the same district with my brother. "Next time, watch where you're going. This dress was the best my stylist could do under the circumstances and now, it's stained! I get that we are in competition but not yet and I think that everyone has the equal right to try and get sponsors for these damn games. Messing me up is not going to cut it!" I couldn't help but chuckle at her attitude towards me. Slowly, I got some water from a table with a cloth and rubbed it right below her breasts as she looked at me intensely.

The drink that had spilled on her looked almost invisible now and she looked very uncomfortable with the situation. Smiling, I set down the cloth and whispered, "I think you will be just fine. Camille, isn't it?" I asked her. "Yes, and you are Elijah. I know, we met and your brother is a jerk. But apparently, we might be working together in this thing. Not interested!" she spat at me with anger in her eyes. Pushing me away, she left me standing there with a surprised look on my face. The way she spoke her mind, seemed to fascinate me more as I looked after her. There was something more to this girl's intellect and it turned me on whenever I looked at her. "Elijah!" someone yelled out at me and I stopped looking after her.

Katherine was standing next to me, in her black dress with her hands crossed over her chest. "What were you staring at?" she asked me quizzically. "Why don't I do the questioning first? Where have you been and what have you been doing?" I asked her and I could see her trying to look away from me. "Katerina, I don't like you keeping secrets from me." I whispered and cupped her cheek. She pushed my hand away and said, "And you need to remember that we are not together anymore." "We have been for a long time and those feelings don't go away overnight. I am waiting for an explanation still." "To what?" "Why did you leave me?" She started walking away but I grabbed her hand and turned her towards me. "It's complicated." She whispered and left the dance.

There was nothing I wouldn't have done at that moment just to be in her shoes, to see explanations which caused our break up. Drinking some more champagne, I turned around, seeing my brother, Niklaus facing me. "What an unwelcome surprise." He said to me with a smirk on his face as I set down my glass on a table. "And what an unsurprising welcome." "I see that you obsession with Katerina Pierce doesn't cease to exist." Niklaus said as he pointed over to Katherine walking away from the party. "I am in no mood for your bullocks, Niklaus, so please elaborate what you want from me." "I wish to hear your answer to my proposition. Our mother requests that we work together to survive in the games instead of competing against one another. I think we should be honoring her judgment and do as she says." I sighed and grabbed something to drink again as he placed his hand on my shoulder. "I know we have not seen one another in a long time but don't forget how close we have always been before, Elijah. You never gave up on me and I was always by your side. Our mother wishes for something which can mean our reconnection as siblings. We work together, as one. We are the best fighters out of them all. We can survive together." I nodded and finished up with my drinking, putting my hand on his shoulder too.

"I was never one to disobey our mother do I am going to accept this proposition, but you will have to accept something in return." I told him clearly. "And what is that?" he asked me. "Katerina is going to be joining us." "That is not going to happen." "Still as stubborn as I remember you being. She is sick. I can tell and she needs help, even though she doesn't want it. I promised her that I would protect her in the games." "And she is taking full advantage of that. Can you really be so blind, brother?" he asked me. "I still care about her." I told him clearly. "If that's the case, then I suppose you will have no problem adding my female partner into the group." I chuckled and nodded, as I remembered my conversation with Camille from earlier. "She has no fighting skills but she is smart and she can help us out there…and I've made a promise I would protect her too. So, what's it to be, brother?" "Deal." I responded. Niklaus chuckled and smiled at me. "It is great to see you back in business with me brother." "As long as you don't do anything foolish, Niklaus, it will be my pleasure." I told him.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Third Day of Training**

Someone should have convinced me that this was a nightmare, but it was feeling so much more like a pleasant dream. I sighed in my bed as I noticed the sun shining in my bedroom and I knew that Effie was going to make me get up any minute. The dream…it was of him, Klaus Mikaelson. I groaned in my pillow as I thought long and hard about these sorts of consequences. I had Lucy and Jake to think about. They needed me back home and I haven't heard from them in a long time. I missed them dearly. I promised them that I would come back home one day and I had to keep that promise. There would be no one with them, otherwise. After what happened at the party the other night, who really was in the mood for training, especially when we had another party to go to this night, this time it was a Masked Ball and President Snow was going to be there. Somehow, that didn't make me feel good at all. He was a bastard!

Klaus…that two-faced son of a bitch that I hated, and yet somehow, I felt the need to be around him. He told me that he would help me fight and he was going to help me today. I didn't care what I had to do in order to make him. I got out of bed and went to Josh's room, knocking on the door. He opened it at once, fully clothed and washed. I smiled at him and whispered, "Rough night?" He smiled at me shyly and said, "As if you don't know. I can't believe I punched Niklaus Mikaelson in the face. He is after me now." "No, he is not. I spoke to him and he is going to let you go this one time." "Wait, you spoke to him?" "Yes, and there is nothing to worry about. He will leave you alone." Josh was looking at me with disbelief. "I can't believe you're still after that guy!" he growled, standing up. "Don't be ridiculous! I am not after him! He helped me and I helped him." "You're not supposed to be helping him!"

The door opened and both Effie and Kieran were standing there with their hands behind their backs. "I see that the two of you have finally managed to get out of bed without me having to pour water on you." Effie sounded excited and decided to ignore the fight that was going on between Josh and me, but Kieran was not going to. "Why is it that I always have to hear the name Niklaus Mikaelson around this penthouse?" he asked with a sigh as he watched me. "He offered to help me train and I am going to take full advantage of that." Okay, it wasn't the exact truth but I had to say something to get him off my back. "Offered to help you train?" Kieran asked me, surprised. "He is one of the best, isn't he? This is the perfect opportunity for me." "So, you are playing the same game he is." Kieran concluded, watching me closely. "I guess you can call it that. I, unlike Josh here, know how to keep my enemies close." I told him and pushed Josh out of my way, heading for the kitchen to eat.

Kieran kept watching me over breakfast and I had a strong feeling in the pit of my stomach that he didn't believe I word I told him. I wanted to enter the games knowing I had some sort of security…but I also couldn't deny the way this Niklaus Mikaelson made me feel, like no other man ever had. I knew who he was, I knew his reputation and I have learned to hate his family for a very long time. But now, all I can think about is his very own gorgeous, masculine face. We all ate in silence and then headed for the training center. We were expected there, as always and as always, Josh and I were late. People had already begun and they were fighting dirtier than I could have imagined. Most of them had gotten really good since the first day. I didn't imagine that this could be possible. Ignoring Josh because of his attitude, I headed over to the bows and arrows area, where there was practically no one. Sighing, I took a bow in my hands, when I heard the door open and close. A small smile appeared on my face as I saw who it was, but I quickly tried to hide it before he could see.

"You're keeping yourself in shape, aren't you, little wolf?" he asked me with a smirk as he went over and grabbed a bow of his own. I scoffed as he used that nickname for me again. "When you call me that…it reminds me of my late father and I don't want to think about him." I whispered. There was silence and he was the only one there with me, who could hear me. He raised his bow firmly and shot an arrow in a dummy, straight in the heart. I watched him, impressively and bit my lip. I saw him and his brother being on good terms today and it made me think that they had most probably made an alliance. As I raised my own bow to a dummy, my hands began shaking for a reason. I wasn't feeling stable or safe, all of a sudden. Sweat was coming from my brows and I dropped the bow the moment I felt his warm hand on my shoulder. I turned around to face him, a scared look on my face.

"What's the matter with you?" he suddenly asked me with concern which was not missed by me. I opened my mouth to talk, but nothing came out. I was still confused about what was going on with me as he held my hands firmly in his own. "Answer me!" he growled and an angry expression could be seen on his face. "Nothing." I whispered. "Why don't I believe that, love?" "Believe what you want." I freed my hands and took my bow and arrow back in my hands. He continued to look at me and said, "I think you've finally realized what you're dealing with." "I have known all along." "Not like this. It happens to everyone who is not prepared and has never experienced a true battle before." "I did not choose this. I was supposed to be home with my brother and sister." I suddenly hissed at him. I hated the way he was downgrading me. His expression softened and whispered, "You have siblings?" Should I have told him? What could he do? "I have to look after my smaller brother and sister. I am all they have…and now they're alone."

Why was I telling him all of this? He brought a hand to his chin and rubbed it carefully. "No parents?" he asked me. "I told you that my dad passed away when I was young." "And your mother?" I opened my mouth but stayed silent once again. "I shouldn't be saying anything to you about my family." I told him directly and started shooting my arrows, backing away from him. "I don't know why you're so afraid to tell me the truth, love. What do you think that I am going to do with that information?" he asked me. I just shook my head and whispered, "You need to leave me alone." He grabbed a hold of my hand and asked, "Why?" "Because I am tired of being scolded at for speaking to you." "So, I suppose your mentor thinks that I might take advantage of you." "Is that so hard to believe? It's what your family is known for. It's what you're known for. That is how you win. I am not going to deny that out of all of us, you have the best chance to win, especially now that you have your brother as an ally. Stay away from me."

But he wasn't ready to leave me alone, so he grabbed a hold of me and turned me around. "What if I don't want to?" he asked me, his breath on my face as he pushed me against the wall and held my hands still. "Why me? What do you want from me? Tell me the truth." I asked me and he looked at me deep in the eyes, before pulling away. "Perhaps you're not the girl I thought you were." "You're damn right that I'm not. You shouldn't mess with me. Tell me what you want so you can leave me alone." I whispered to him and thought hard about leaving here. Why was I letting him control my emotions this way? He shouldn't know about my mother and he shouldn't know about Jake or Lucy.

There was a round of applause that could be heard from outside of the room and both of us looked up in surprise to see what was going on. Klaus was squinting until he whispered, "I'll be back." "No." I whispered back and his eyes caught mine for a second before leaving the room to see what was going on. I bit my lip gently and slowly raised my bow to the target before releasing the arrow, right into the dummy's heart and I smiled, proud of myself. Maybe Klaus was right. Maybe I was meant for the bow, just like Katniss Everdeen was. But I still hated the way people viewed me as her. "That was nice." Someone whispered and I turned around to see a girl, who was smaller than me, maybe with one or two years. She had cute dimples on her face and her smile was genuine.

I had no idea how much this girl reminded me of Lucy. "I'm Davina." She whispered and held out her hand to me. I shook it with a smile at her. She was the girl from District 3 along with the guy, Thierry. Josh once told me that she was nice, and never wanted to be in the games. "Will you teach me?" she asked me all of a sudden and picked up a bow in her hand. My smile grew at her and gently shook my head no. "I am still a beginner myself. I don't know how much I can teach you." "But you have it in you. I…I want to know how to defend myself out there. You know, I didn't choose this." She told me. "Neither did I. We haven't even begun the games and they have already changed me." I told her. "How did they change you?" "I had never felt the need to feel so free all the time. I was always a calculated girl with a plan in mind, but not anymore."

"Why do you spend your time with Niklaus Mikaelson? You know that he is dangerous right?" she asked me, surprised. "Yes, I know that." "Yet you trust him to train you?" I turned towards her suspiciously all of a sudden. Who knew what this girl was playing. Maybe she was sweet and cute on the outside but she could have been sent here to get close to me by someone like her evil partner, Thierry. "Have you been spying on me Davina?" I asked her. She shook her head. "No, of course not. I just couldn't help but overhear the conversation between you and Klaus now." I shook my head once more and looked out the window to where people were shocked by something. "What is going on out there?" I asked. "Newcomers. Districts 1 and 2 each have a new tribute, therefore more chances to win." "What? Why?" Davina shrugged. "It's President Snow's idea. It always is."

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Third Day of Training**

I could not believe my eyes, as I saw both of them here. What was going on? I pushed people out of my way to see Elijah speaking to the brother that I had also not seen in a long while, Kol. Growling, I went over there and pushed him, screaming in anger, "What are you doing here?!" "Niklaus!" Elijah yelled back and held me from jumping on Kol and ripping his head off. Kol started laughing and said, "Hey, it's good to see you too here, Nik. Long time, no see." "Answer the question!" I warned him. "Nik." I heard a soft whisper and I turned around in shock to find her standing there. There she was, my beautiful blonde sister, Rebekah, was dressed in her very own training outfit just like Kol, only with number 2 on her shoulder, our district. She came over to me and wrapped her arms around me, in a tight hug.

"You have no idea how much I missed you." I whispered to her and she smiled, nodding. "I am glad to see that you're safe." "Rebekah, what are you doing here? What is Kol doing here?" "President Snow wanted the games to be more interesting so he decided to throw in Kol and me into the bunch. I guess you have more allies now." "This was Father's doing wasn't it?" I asked her, suspicious. "No. Kol wanted to participate, because of personal problems and wanting to get away from home. Snow called me and asked me to participate with him." "I don't believe this." I growled and covered my face with my hands. "Nik, I will be fine. If I am to be here, I am here to help you win and I promise you that I will." "You don't understand that there is only one winner for the games, do you?" "President Snow promised Kol and me freedom if we want out and we will, without anyone knowing." "This is what we do now? We get in front and win through dirt with the Capitol?" I suddenly asked her, angrily.

Rebekah had on a shocked expression which made me realize what I just said to her. "Since when do you care about that, Nik? This is about our family's survival. That is what Father told us to do. This is about us…" She stopped talking as she saw the look on my face and I backed away slowly. "You don't have much time to train. Today and tomorrow." I told her, my face ridged now. "I have been training for this all my life. All I need is a warm up and I am ready to go. I can't wait till we finish and head back to the dorms. We have much to talk about, Nik." She told me and placed a kiss on my cheek. I sighed as she walked away and started going back to the place where Hayley was training. Before I could go there, I saw her looking at me…her expression was not pleasant and I groaned as I knew that she was once again mad at me for a reason. There was another tribute girl with her.

I couldn't risk going to her now. I didn't want anyone to find out about our conversations. Hayley Marshall was a girl to remember, but now that Rebekah was here and she was reminding me of the family's importance, I knew that I had to stop having conversations with the girl competing against me. But right now, I knew that what I needed the most was to write a very specific note to my so called father.

**A/N: What do you think? Next chapter will have the Masque Ball and The last day of training for the tributes. How do you think Klaus is going to handle his sister and brother, Kol being in the games with him? What about Hayley? Why is she upset and how will their relationship evolve?**


	11. The Mask Of Defeat

**After being hit at the Black and White Ball, Klaus ends up getting closer to Hayley than he had thought was possible, as she was dealing with the outbursts of her mentor because of it. Elijah starts to believe that Katherine is keeping a secret from him, as he made a connection to another tribute, Gia. At long last, a surprising twist of events occurs the moment The Capitol have accepted to include Kol and Rebekah Mikaelson in The Hunger Games. **

**In this chapter, believing that Rebekah and Kol have been introduced as to make the chances for District 1 or District 2 to win get higher, Hayley decides she should try harder to stay away from Klaus, at The Masquerade Ball. He continues to stay alongside her, tease her and make her feel everything she shouldn't, until they end up where they never would expect. Elijah collides into Camille once again after being bombarded, wrecked with all sorts of emotions and confused the moment Katherine reveals her secret to him. The last day of training brings more surprises to the table, as the tributes get ready for the evaluation day!**

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**Before The Masquerade Ball**

It did come a shocking surprise to me that Kol has decided to join the games alongside me, yet I was even more surprised to see my sister, Rebekah, joining Niklaus' side, like she always had done. No matter how close we are, no matter how many battles we wage together as a family, I had a constant reminder in my head that only one of us all would survive. I sighed as I arranged my suit, ready to make my way to the grand Masquerade Ball, the last party arranged for us. President Snow was going to be there and as close as he is to my father, I will have the opportunity to ask him what made him make this decision.

There was a small gasp and I turned around to see Katherine in her dress, already wearing her mask on. "My, you do look dashing." She told me and placed her hands on my shoulders, making me feel extremely uncomfortable. "This is not a game, Katerina. This is serious." "I know you are stressed that all of your siblings are now here. How will all of us survive?" she asked me in a whisper. "You know I can't answer that question but…I do wish to speak to President Snow tonight and get everything cleared up before we get thrown in the arena." "Do you think he is going to listen to you?" "We are one of his favorite districts. He must and he will. The safety of my brother and sisters matters to me."

"What were they thinking getting here like this?" Katherine wondered as she played with the necklace around her neck. "I have no idea." Clapping her hands together, she made me face her and she put her hands on my cheeks. "I need to know what mask you are wearing tonight. I have shown you mine. This way we will know when we can find one another." "Why are we talking about a certain time?" Katherine giggled and wiggled her eyebrows. "You know…" I sighed and took her hands from my face, looking in the mirror again. Katherine sighed and said, "You know, I don't take rejection too easily, Elijah."

"You broke up with me, Katerina. There is nothing more to be said now." "That does not mean that I don't want you back now. We are in the games, with just a couple more days left until we get thrown in the arena. Nothing matters now, does it? The past doesn't matter. The future no longer matters either. Just the present." She told me and I sighed, shaking my head. "I am not looking just at the present. The past and the future are both dear to me and I shall not let them aside. I want to survive the games, marry a woman that I will love and have children…and of course, I want to be with my family. I wish for my family to be whole again." "You are asking for a lot." Katherine told me. "I am asking for enough. I am sure my mother is too." "Elijah, I know that you still love me...and for a couple more days, we can make it work again, for old times' sake." Just at that moment I realized that her words were of no value to me like they were before. I turned to her swiftly and whispered, "We shared something special. But not something strong enough to make it last. I am willing to move on from it and so should you."

She pulled me back to her but at that moment, I saw her whiten and she was in the bathroom before I could stop her, throwing up. My biggest fear was once again set in front of me. I moved towards the bathroom, ignoring the way Kol was making jokes about the situation and opened the door, to find her there, nestled near the toilet, after she had thrown up everything she had eaten this day. She gave me hopeful eyes and I lay beside her, running my hand through her hair. "Katerina…are you pregnant?" I asked her in barely a whisper. She slowly nodded her head…which made me ask a different question, with my eyes closed. "Is it…mine?" Opening my eyes, I could see her nodding slowly. "Why haven't you said anything?" I asked her, trying to keep calm. I also didn't wish for anyone to overhear this. "Because of how dismissive you are towards me. You hate me for breaking up with you."

"Is this the reason why? Because you found out you are pregnant with my child?" I asked her. She looked like she was hesitating for a moment before nodding slowly. "That's the reason. Punish me all you want, but I am here in the games now and I am in danger of not surviving and this baby won't survive if I don't survive." Katherine told me. "I can speak to President Snow tonight. We can find a way for you to…" She placed her finger on my lips and stopped me from talking. "No, don't tell anyone about this. I mean it. No one has to know that I am pregnant. No one. This between you and me, okay?" "As you wish." I finally told her and stood up, giving her my hand. "What are you going to do now?" she asked me. "I believe…that I just want to get some fresh air for the moment." I responded leaving the bathroom, with my hand stuck to my forehead, barely believing what drastic turn my life has taken.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Before The Masquerade Ball**

Effie was throwing her hands around the room, in anger and saying things that I never thought I would hear from her. We were all dressed up and ready to attend the Masquerade Ball, President Snow had prepared for us and the main subject in the living room was how District 1 and District 2 each had three tributes in the games now. "I just knew that there would be a way for them to take advantage of their popularity! This is preposterous! Kieran, you have to do something!" Effie pointed a finger at my mentor, warningly and I smiled a little when I saw Kieran looking scared. You should never mess with Effie.

But she was right. I was not blaming her at all. I was just as angry about the situation as she was but if there is one thing that I learned from Kieran these past couple of days is that you can only exhaust yourself with anger…and you won't solve the problem. I was looking in the mirror at my flawless red dress and the mask that Rona had made for me. It was gorgeous, I couldn't deny that. It was the one night which I was actually looking forward to. I had the chance to be somewhere and have no one recognize me. I felt that this night, I would be free.

Josh was not as excited as he sat down on the couch next to Kieran. His face was in his hands and I knew that he thought his chances just got lower with the new tributes attending. There was a moment when I could remember looking into Niklaus Mikaelson's eyes and I saw something different. I realized that he was certainly not his father. I started believing that with all my heart, which is why I asked for his help, as I offered up mine in return. But as it turns out, first impressions can also be correct ones. He certainly planned with his father to get his siblings here, double their chances at winning like the cowards they all are. I closed my eyes tightly in front of the mirror before I felt Kieran's hand on my shoulder. "I hope you now realize what a scoundrel Klaus Mikaelson really is and you will stay away from him." He told me. "I think I learned my lesson." I whispered to him, even though I wasn't sure that what I was saying was true.

Effie was still shaking her hand until she sighed and said, "The damage has been done. Even with more tributes, those two districts won't stand a chance against the two of you. You are better than them." She told me and Josh with a convincing smile, which made Kieran relax too. "She is right. The two of you hold more power from the love in your heart than the Mikaelsons do in their entire bodies. You are going to show them who the champions of this year are." "I am happy that you have faith in us. We won't disappoint you." I responded and Kieran offered me a hug. "I know you won't."

"Alright! Enough with all of these emotions!" Rona exclaimed from the door with a smile on her face. "Let's go and let's get this show on the road!" That was the moment I saw Josh smiling again. I was really hoping that tonight, I would get a chance to mend my friendship with him. We were co-partners after all and with just one more day of training left until the ultimate test, I didn't think that he was prepared for it, but then again, training on my own has not done me good either. When I thought about the things that Klaus had taught me, I felt like I wanted to bang my head against the wall. How could I have been so stupid? How could I have let him in like that, let him play with my emotions? And I had betrayed Kieran, the one who was helping me through this. But there was just something about this Mikaelson, something I couldn't shake off.

"Let us go!" Effie exclaimed and grabbed my arm, getting me out of my room before I could protest. I put on my mask and Effie clapped her hands together. "You are so beautiful, my dear, I feel like crying." "There is no need to go overboard. Let's just get through this party." I told her. "Wait! How are we supposed to win people over and get sponsors if we are all wearing masks and have no idea who each person at that party is?" Josh asked, confused and looked at Kieran, who shrugged. "Don't look at me. I was not the one who organized this event. But do try to relax because believe me, this will be the last night you will be having fun." Something about that sentence didn't sound right and Kieran covered his mouth with his hand, as Josh walked away from us and ran faster into the party. "I didn't mean it to sound like that." Kieran sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "It's okay. Let me handle this." I told him.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Before The Masquerade Ball**

Camille looked lost in thought as I entered her room. She was not dressed and she was holding her book upside down that it made me almost chuckle. Rebekah had found herself a room in our apartment for her to stay in and freshen up before our trainer was going to meet with her. I didn't know how I felt about my sister being here. I didn't even know how I felt about Kol being here too. It was almost as if…all of this wasn't real and I was waiting to open my eyes and realize that it was a dream. Closing the door, I startled the intellectual blonde, who fumbled with her book as she looked at me. I smiled at her and took a seat next to her, to my surprise. "What? No criticism from you today?" she asked me, bitterly. "I actually came here to apologize to you for the way I've been treating you for the past couple of days we've been here." I told her, softly and her anger looked like it vanished. She didn't wear a white dress at the Black and White Ball without a reason. She really was an angelic type of girl, if you really got to know her.

"Thank you." She whispered and showed me a toothless smile as well. I looked towards her book and asked, "Have you found anything that may help us?" "Actually, I have been researching some diseases, poisonous plants that we might find and prevent ourselves from eating them. With you, me, Katherine and Elijah in the team, and now with your other sister and brother, I really think that we have a chance to pull this off and get to be the last survivors, but…" She stopped talking and I knew what was bothering her. I hadn't had the time to think about it much. What if I wasn't the winner? We were a group of six. Only one of us would get to have the title of victor…the rest would be sacrificed. "I know what you're worried about…and I promise that I am going to try to find a way out of it." I told her in a way that she knew what I was talking about. "Thank you, Klaus. You're not as bad as I thought you were."

"You are no bookworm yourself, Cami." I called her by her nickname and patted the sofa before getting up and heading out of the room. It was time that I spoke to my sister. Knocking on her room gently, I opened the door, to find her staring out the window. "Are you ready to go?" I asked her. She was dressed up nicely and her mask was put away, but visible to the eye. "I don't know. I am hated by practically everyone so why should I even go?" she asked me and I shook my head. "Come on! Why would you think that? You're my sister. You're a Mikaelson." "Districts 1 and 2 have more tributes, making their chances of winning higher, not to mention that we have been training for this all our lives. People don't appreciate us cheating." She told me and this time, I truly burst out laughing.

"Sister, we are not cheating. We simply have things to our advantage without us wanting it in the first place. This all about chance and luck. It isn't our fault they don't receive that." "That may be your opinion but you know that I have always respected the other districts." "I do too." "No, you don't. You respect ours and you respect our family. When have you shown respect to a tribute from a lesser district?" she asked me and I opened my mouth to speak and say her name but I changed my mind, quickly, remembering Father's letter. "That girl? Hayley Marshall?" Rebekah asked me and I slowly closed my eyes for a minute when I heard her name. "Do you like her?" Rebekah asked me and my eyes flared open in anger. "You would dare insinuate such a thing?"

Rebekah opened her mouth and then closed it again. She put on her mask and whispered, "You don't have to be scared to tell me something you wish to keep a secret. You don't have to be afraid to care about someone, but…be more discreet about it with others." She insisted and placed a hand on my cheek, startling me. "Okay, so Caroline was not the woman you were truly meant to be with but that doesn't mean that you can't find someone else." She told me and kissed my cheek, before smiling and saying, "We better get going. We are late enough as it is. Is Cami dressed and ready to go?" "I suppose." I responded, still trying to figure out what my sister was telling me. Was she telling me to follow my instinct and open up my heart to another woman or was she telling me to step aside before Mikael ends up on my doorstep, telling me to mind my business and let go of my wildest passions?

This particular party was a tad bit too cliché for my tastes, but I did try to make myself pleasant as always and fancy myself a bottle of scotch as I sent dirty looks to my brother, Kol. He wasn't supposed to be here. Our relationship was more strained than mine with Elijah was. My youngest brother had a way of making me lose my mind. I drank up half of the bottle before I looked out in the distance and saw her very beautiful figure, speaking to her tribute partner. They were the only ones who were not wearing their masks. A smile appeared on my face all of a sudden and I had no intention of blocking it, even when Rebekah asked me, "Are you okay." "Splendid, love." I responded and put down the bottle to head over to her. Mikael's letter speared in my mind and I stopped in my tracks, thinking about what I was going to do next. How was I going to approach this? What was I going to say to her? The last time I saw her, she looked splendidly mad at me for a reason. But then again, I wouldn't know the problem if I had not found a way of getting in conversation with her.

"Not on a drinking problem are you once again, Joshua?" I asked him with a smirk on my lips as the boy faced me. My hands were wrapped behind my back and I saw Hayley rolling her eyes at my remark. "Klaus Mikaelson. I could recognize you from a mile even with that mask on your face." "Do try to be more polite, Joshua, this party cannot end in games like last time. We have our dear old President Snow attending after all." I replied and he snarled, "My name is Josh!" "Okay! Enough! Stop!" I could feel Hayley getting in between us and placing a hand on her partner's shoulder. Her raspberry scent got me wrapped up around her at once and I could feel my eyes closing slowly, imagining my mouth sucking gently on the skin on her neck. It was as if for that one moment, I felt that she was my world. "Josh, just go and leave us, please." Hayley told him, before she turned to face me in anger.

**District 1: Kol Mikaelson**

**At The Masquerade Ball**

Sipping on my wine, I smiled as I glanced at all the ladies walking around and dressed in very interesting outfits, precisely for my tastes. But despite all of these beauties dancing happily around me with their masks on, I could only think about one girl, and the way she had betrayed me. My mother told me that the Pierce sisters, Tatia, Katherine and Elena had a purpose for the Capitol, to provide heirs for their most fit and richest young men. In our district, there rarely ever was love when marriages and bonds were created. It was all about power and money. But I was the only one to know from my siblings…that wasn't the case for Mom and Pop. They did love one another, despite Mikael's rage towards her.

I stood there, wishing with all my might that I had not caught Elena in bed with that distasteful Damon Salvatore. Just thinking about it at this moment, sent a sick feeling in my stomach, just knowing that Elena was doing things with a man I hated, when all I have wanted for years was her to do those things to me. And the way she looked at me that day when I broke into her house to demand an explanation, I would never be able to forget it. That face which told me that I was too late to save her from this. "Care to step aside and let me pour myself some punch?" There was a girl right next to me, posing that question.

"Not at all, darling." I told her with a wink. She was a sassy one. She didn't look to be more than sixteen and was wearing a spectacular green dress with embroilment clearly stated on her face, the color pink in her cheeks, as the golden mask hid the pretty face, draped in raven colored hair. This was a classic girl he wanted to spend this party with. I was wondering if she would also be the type to accept my proposition. "What is your name, sweetheart?" I asked, taking another sip of my wine, trying to prove a point that I was not the man to fool around, like she probably thought.

"Not interested in telling you. But don't worry. Even with that mask on, people can still recognize your family signature smirk. Kol Mikaelson, I presume." "Well, well, well…my gut was right. You are an interesting one." She batted her eyelashes as I tried to study all of the features that were exposed. If she wasn't going to tell me her name, I would have to find her after the party…when she was exposed and no mask to cover up anything. There were just a couple more days until the games and she looked too young to be a sponsor. He could at least have a little fun with her tonight. Most likely, she was one of the district tributes. "Like what you see?" she asked him, with a small grin, that he memorized. "Very much, darling." "Don't you think you're being overly cocky?" I wished I would have responded to that, but a wonderful melody could be heard and I grabbed a hold of her hand.

"A dance shall do more talking than our mouths, don't you think so, sweetheart?" I asked her with a genuine smile this time, to which she showed me hers. She was young, not too young for my tastes but young enough to see that her feminism was still developing, unlike the Elena Pierce I knew. She accepted to share this dance with me and I couldn't be happier as she wrapped her hands around my neck. "I see that being a Mikaelson no longer brings a frown on your pretty doll face." I told her in a whisper and her smile suddenly disappeared, making me laugh. "You're still you." She told me as I spun her around and she landed back into my chest. "I am still me. Would you prefer I were someone I'm not?" I asked her. "I wouldn't put it exactly like that but…" "Tell me your name." I suddenly demanded. She didn't seem offended by the tone of my voice and just smiled wickedly.

"Rude. You should say please when you are desperately asking for something you know you have few chances of receiving." She told me and I grinned. "Alright, if you want to play this game, then I shall accept the challenge. I would like to know your name…please." As I pulled her in for the last twirl, she landed into me with her hands on my chest, whispering, "If you have been paying attention…you'll find out." She another one of those cute, blushing smiles of hers, she left me standing stunned on the dance floor, not being able to say anything for myself. Who was this girl? From which district? For those few moments with her, I found myself forgetting everything about Elena Pierce. This was the girl in the green dress, with raven black hair. I wanted to know her. I had to find her.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**At The Masquerade Ball**

Nothing had shocked me more greatly than to find out that the woman, with whom I have been in love with for so long, has been keeping a secret so precious to me. Katerina was going to have my child. And now, both of them were here in the games with me. I had to find a way to stop this madness. Katerina could not compete in these vile games in her condition. Moving through the crowd, I could see President Snow taking his seat of honor. I had to speak with him. He knows my family and he would understand.

"Elijah!" someone called out. I turned around and saw a blonde woman standing behind me, with a regular angel's mask on her face. "Do I know you?" I asked her. She slowly took off her mask and revealed her face to him. "Camille." I slowly whispered and she smiled at me as she stepped forward and said, "Hey, I just wanted to apologize about yesterday. That drink spilling thing was not really your fault. I was terribly clumsy too. I hate to hold that on you. And I have been acting like a real bitch since I got here so…" "Well, I sincerely thank you for that. But now I must get going…" I started walking again but she put her hand on my shoulder, stopping me. "Are you okay? You look like you have just seen a ghost a couple of seconds ago." She asked me.

"It is important that I speak to President Snow right now." I told her. "But he doesn't take invites into his box at the moment. He said it before the party begun, had you been listening."

"I had been worrying about some other issues of my own." I responded. "What kind of issues?" I sighed as now I believed Camille was being too good for me. I had no idea what had caused this sudden change in her but I greatly appreciated her. I didn't know if I would be able to tell her. Before I could say anything, she had pulled me away from the crowd and convinced me to have a seat, staring directly at her. "I have been doing some psychological studies for the past couple of years. That is why I know so much…and preferably be called the Bookworm by your brother, Klaus." I chuckled when I heard of my brother's nickname for her but the minute I realized that she was not very pleased about it, I stopped laughing at once and I offered her my full attention.

"Maybe I can help you more than you think I can. We are going to be partners in crime soon. You might as well, reveal to me the things troubling your mind." Camille was very persuasive. I had to hand it to her that she knew what she was doing and her manner of speaking was very attractive. "Come with me." I suddenly told her and she stood up, walking alongside me until she lost the crowd and the cameras that were filming all the people at this ball. Camille had decided to put her mask back on, as I had mine on, so she would not receive any bad publicity for not getting into the party spirit. "Is it really necessary to be this far from everyone else? I am afraid that you are going to have to kill me after you tell me."

I couldn't help but chuckle once more as I pulled her in a private place, with flowers. The place looked a lot like a garden, cut off from the rest. "It is not exactly a secret." She offered me a look and I smiled, nodding. "Very well, it is a secret but only because you are the first person I am telling." "And you trust me enough for that? How do you know that I am not going to use that information against you?" "We are working as partners in our group. We are working together. I believe I can trust you with this." "Well?" she was waiting for me patiently. "Katerina Pierce…she is pregnant." I finally told her and her eyes widened. "What? How? How could she be pregnant?"

"She has been sick ever since she got here. I was suspecting something was wrong with her and I insisted that she went to a doctor but she refused. I confronted her about it today once more and she couldn't hide it from me any longer. She confessed." "So, is she carrying your child?" "Yes." "Are you sure it is your child?" My eyes darkened for a moment before whispering, "She decided to break off our relationship a couple of days before the Reaping. I suspect that this is the reason. She is only a few weeks in." "Why have you decided to tell me and not your brothers?" "I don't trust Niklaus completely, despite our alliance for our mother in the games. Rebekah would surely tell him if I confide in her and Kol…he is younger and I would say, foolish, to keep this secret and he would torment Katerina." "You don't want this to get on the news, right?" "Precisely. Which is why I turned to you for help, hoping that you would help her deal with this situation." I needed her to help me and I knew she would be the only one who could.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**At The Masquerade Ball**

I turned to him and crossed my hands over my chest as he watched me with a smug plastered on his face. "You just don't want to quit do you?" I asked him and pushed him aside with a sigh, before he grabbed my hand, colliding me into his chest like he had done many times before. Even though I knew that I was supposed to hate him, he was turning me on more and more with his captivating look, the glimmer of dark shadow in his eyes. "Scared, little wolf?" he asked me with a smirk. "Why should I be scared of you?" "I thought you were the girl with the answers for everything, so you tell me. What are you afraid of?" I wanted to confess. I was afraid of my emotions getting the better of my rational mind. My heart is what had gotten me into this mess in the first place. My brave heart was chosen, like Effie had told me. I had betrayed my mind so many times before, but this time, I was doing it in order to feel something I had not once felt in my entire life. Pure and complete dangerous lust.

Klaus would not stop staring at me and as he looked deeper, I knew that he was reaching my soul. His hands were suddenly running up and down my arms and I remembered what I had told Kieran. This time I would stay away from Klaus Mikaelson. I wanted to say something to break this off but at that moment, there was loud clapping and the music stopped. For a second, I thought that we were the ones causing this disruption but I could see President Snow coming out of his box, off of his chair and face the crowd, silencing them all in order to make a speech. Klaus' attention diverted to him completely and he let go of my arms, making me feel the cold of the night, like before.

"I welcome you all to this momentum of glory, in which each and every one of you show me that you are going to make your districts proud! I have received word from trainers…you are all doing very well and improving by the minute. Just note this. Tonight, we celebrate your last moments of freedom. Drink and feast as you please! And tomorrow…after your last day of training, results in the ultimate test for superiority! Who will receive the highest mark after you evaluations? Who will be the strongest? Who will be the fan favorite? Who will be the underdog? All that remains to be seen! Happy Hunger Games and May the odds be ever in your favor!" President Snow finished his speech and retrieved to his bow in applause. It was disgusting how a murderous man like him received such praise and glory.

His speech had finally made me wake up and realize why I was so mad at the Mikaelsons, why I could barely look Klaus in the face. Against my better judgment, I was liking him a little too much and Kieran was right. He could not be trusted because of his provenience. His family would always be the Mikaelsons and nothing will ever change that. I started walking away until I heard his voice. "Hayley, wait!" "Please leave me alone." "The reason why I came to speak to you, little wolf, is to find out what precisely made you run off on me like that at the training center today!" he said to me and finally grabbed a hold of me and got me inside the hotel, pushing me in an empty room on the ground floor and locking the door. I was shocked. "What are you doing? Unlock this door at once! Do you want me to scream?"

"You could, but you won't." "What the hell do you know about me, Mikaelson?" "A lot, except the reason you're upset with me, love." "I am upset because you don't tend on letting me have some peace and quiet before the blasted games begin." "Before Rebekah and Kol arrived, you seemed to be handing your situation pretty well." "You are playing an unfair game here, a game to which I will have no part of. You and your family think that you are so superior. Hell with family. Your whole district believes that." "So, you are upset that the games have become unfair for the most part. Life is unfair, little wolf."

"Believe me that what you had was a sheltered life. You had everything given to you while I had to fight for the bread I ate and offered to my siblings every day for the past couple of years when my mother abandoned us." I closed my mouth in shock at what I had just revealed to him. I didn't want to tell him about Mother at all. I promised myself that I would not let anyone know about this. He stepped forward at that moment and raised my chin so I could look at him in the eyes when he said, "The bonds of family are very much important to me as they are to you, little wolf. There was not a day that I hadn't thought about my sister Rebekah while I was here. She came here to be with me, to help me and to support me." "And you have no interest to win the games for glory and money?" I snapped at him, as the tears streamed down my face uncontrollably. "Family is my interest." He told me, convincingly, still holding my chin.

Our eyes connected for a strong moment before he pulled on my chin and his lips crashed into mine at once, starting to kiss me aggressively. I gasped in shock, at the very feel of a man's lips on my own. I had never had this before. The pleasure of having a man touching every single part of you. Klaus was kissing my mouth, moving down to my jaw, making me gasp so many times; as we tumbled on the floor, on the soft carpet and he was kissing my neck like it was all he wanted. Gasping and moaning, I felt his release my neck and moved down to my dress, taking it off and pushing it away from me, leaving me in just my bra and underwear as he was taking off his suit too. I had never felt this sort of pleasure before. The lust boiling inside of me was exciting and I loved it. I knew at that point that I wanted so much more with him. He rubbed his hands on my hips, as his lips moved back up on my neck.

One of my hands was now resting on his back and the other was in his ruffled hair, as my mouth parted for a moment, closing my eyes. After kissing me on the lips one more time, Klaus pulled back and I opened my eyes. I had no idea what he was looking at but after a moment, I think he realized…I had never done this before, and I was nervous as anyone would had they been in my position. He slowly released himself from the mask so I could see his face that night. Somehow that made me smile as he took off my mask as well. After that, Klaus started moving up my panties and pulling them down gently. He was looking at me in a way, as if asking me if he could. I slowly nodded my head as I closed my eyes and I could feel him getting hard, as he hovered above me and kissed my lips again, entering me with patience as the pleasure ran through me making the blood boil in my veins at how much I wanted and needed him.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Fourth Day of Training**

I could barely sleep the night we came home from the ball. I sighed in pleasure with a smile on my face as I remembered what I had finally done with her. But…what stunned me was that she didn't hold back and it wasn't until later in our passionate moment that I realized she had never done this before. She had never kissed a man, let alone sleep with him. I had taken away her virginity and she had let me. Me…of all people. I never imagined it would be this difficult to face her again after what we did, but it was. Everyone seemed quiet on that last day, as if everyone was keeping secrets one from the other.

She was training with swords in a different station than mine. She was with the girl from District 3, with whom she was getting along very well. But it came as no surprise to me that she had chosen a different station than me. After our pleasurable moment last night, which lasted a lot longer than I thought, she had told me she felt different, like any woman would after her first time, but she mentioned to him what a mistake this was, that no one should hear about this and it would never happen again. What I was trying to figure out was…why had it happened? Why had I let myself get passionate with this girl that I hated but at the same time admired and somehow cared for? Was this what it was? It was out of hate for one another? Is that how it happened? Somehow, that did not suit me very well. "Niklaus!" Rebekah called out and she came over to me, sitting down as I was, playing with my arrows. "Why aren't you practicing? Feeling too sure of yourself? The ultimate test is tomorrow you know? We get marks, sponsors and off we go."

"What is the point, Rebekah? We know how good we are. We don't need this second hand training." "The others do. But that doesn't mean that we can't keep ourselves in great shape in the meantime. By the way, where did you run off to last night? I tried to find you but after President Snow's speech, it was as if you just vanished into thin air. Did something happen?" she asked me, as I continued to stare out in the open, moving my eyes to the place where I could see her laugh with Davina Claire. Something about that laugh, made me feel captive of my emotions, just like she made me feel the other night.

The little wolf had made me lose control, the way no other woman has before. What was so special about her? Why did I feel so connected to her whenever I passed by her? That night happened with a reason and I would not rest until I figured out what it was about Hayley Marshall…which made me disobey my father, Mikael, forget my siblings' advice, forget about training and made me think just of her.

**A/N: Klayley, Camlijah and Kolvina in this chapter. How did you like it? Will Kol discover his secret admirer? Will Cami help Elijah with Katherine and her baby? What will Klaus and Hayley do with a new secret to keep?**

**Please review and tell me what you think, guys!**


	12. The Score Keeps You Alive

**Sleeping with Klaus in the last chapter, will soon set Hayley off guard, as she has to keep this secret to herself and make sure Klaus doesn't spill it to anyone else. Elijah found out that Katherine is pregnant with his child, and felt the need to confide in Camille, hoping that she would help him deal with this. Kol swayed on the dance floor with a beautiful young woman, who wouldn't show her true face to him and hid it beneath her mask.**

**In this chapter, Klaus and Hayley stumble together after their night of passion, having difficulties to forget about it. But the day of the final evaluation puts things in perspective and threatens them to concentrate on what they are in the games for. Elijah, asks Camille to join him in a talk with Katherine, leading to misunderstandings and complications between the two women. In the meantime, Kol seeks the help of Rebekah, to find the secret raven girl he danced with at the Masquerade Ball. Knowing that she is on the verge of losing control, Hayley finally decides that it is time to trust someone with her deepest secret. **

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Evaluation Day**

He gathered us all early that morning in the living room. I could barely sleep after last night. Having to go through another torturous day of training where almost everyone disrespected me was very tiring. Kieran clapped his hands together as he watched me and Josh take a seat on the couch. Rona and Effie were in the room now too and they were discussing what needed to be done. "What is going on?" Josh asked Kieran once silence filled the room and for some reason, I started to get sweaty. It was difficult for me to even think about what happened the night of the Masquerade Ball and Kieran has been on my case ever since, thinking that I am hiding something from him. I knew that I should have told him the truth about what happened between me and Klaus, but I knew that it would only disappoint him.

_Our eyes connected for a strong moment before he pulled on my chin and his lips crashed into mine at once, starting to kiss me aggressively. I gasped in shock, at the very feel of a man's lips on my own. I had never had this before. The pleasure of having a man touching every single part of you. Klaus was kissing my mouth, moving down to my jaw, making me gasp so many times; as we tumbled on the floor, on the soft carpet and he was kissing my neck like it was all he wanted. Gasping and moaning, I felt his release my neck and moved down to my dress, taking it off and pushing it away from me, leaving me in just my bra and underwear as he was taking off his suit too. I had never felt this sort of pleasure before. The lust boiling inside of me was exciting and I loved it. I knew at that point that I wanted so much more with him. He rubbed his hands on my hips, as his lips moved back up on my neck. _

_One of my hands was now resting on his back and the other was in his ruffled hair, as my mouth parted for a moment, closing my eyes. After kissing me on the lips one more time, Klaus pulled back and I opened my eyes. I had no idea what he was looking at but after a moment, I think he realized…I had never done this before, and I was nervous as anyone would had they been in my position. He slowly released himself from the mask so I could see his face that night. Somehow that made me smile as he took off my mask as well. After that, Klaus started moving up my panties and pulling them down gently. He was looking at me in a way, as if asking me if he could. I slowly nodded my head as I closed my eyes and I could feel him getting hard, as he hovered above me and kissed my lips again, entering me with patience as the pleasure ran through me making the blood boil in my veins at how much I wanted and needed him._

I wrapped my hands around my legs, which were now huddled up on the couch and I bit my lip, closing my eyes for a minute, remembering every single detail of that sinful night. What happened between us wasn't supposed to happen, but it did and now I would be stuck with these thoughts about him for the rest of my time here. What happened to me? How did I forget my plan so easily the moment Niklaus Mikaelson came into my life? Lucy and Jake, my two reasons for me to live. I had disappointed them. I was supposed to be thinking only of them and how I would get back to them and I failed them. But taking away someone's virginity was a big deal…and that is what Klaus did to me that night. I didn't know if he realized it or not. He is my first. He is the one who made me feel like a true woman for once.

"Hayley!" Kieran snapped and I opened my eyes to catch the four of them looking at me as if I were crazy. "Yes. What is it?" I asked, innocently, fear building up inside of me that they might know something. "We were talking about how important this day is…before you spaced out on us." Kieran explained, with his hands crossed over his chest, angrily. "I'm sorry." I mumbled and let go of my legs. "As I was saying…today is the day you show the Gamekeepers your fighting skills, everything that you know from your training…and they will score you from 1 to 12, based on what they've seen during your four days of training and what you are going to show them today in the afternoon." Josh and I both nodded and looked at one another seriously.

"Any last advice for us?" he asked Kieran with a goofy smile. "The score keeps you alive, my friends. The higher the score, the more sponsors, the more chances of remaining alive, because the people love you. It's simple as day." Kieran told him, simply. "So, we have some work to do on those outfits you will present yourselves with." Rona said and left the room, getting started. "And what are we going to do?" I asked our mentor. Kieran frowned at me for a moment before saying, "I want you to remind yourself of the purpose you are here for and the way you were when you first entered the games." His answer shocked me, but he did realize that I had changed. I am no longer the person that I was when I came here. Josh stood up and left the room, realizing that this was a private talk between me and Kieran.

"You don't stop treating me like a child, do you?" I asked him, with my hands crossed over my chest. "You are 16. You are a child, Hayley and while you are here, I am like a parent to you and a parent is concerned when you no longer focus on your training after the Masquerade Ball." He explicated and it widened my eyes. "What are you saying, Kieran?" "There is something distracting you. I don't know what it is but I am going to find out and for your own good and for your brother and sister, I am going to eliminate it." "I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself." "Start acting like it and do as you're told in order to survive because maybe, I am just going to start focusing on Josh more and letting you go." I honestly couldn't believe him. "You weren't such a jerk when I first came here. I am not the only one who's changed here, Kieran. I know why I am here and I know what I have to do."

"Then why do you refuse to tell me what happened at the Masquerade Ball? You left. No one could see you, not the cameras, no one. You vanished and then you showed up at your room, past your bedtime with a cheap excuse that you went off to explore and got lost." "That is what happened!" Our voices were raising and Effie came back into the room to calm down the spirits. "Whatever this is, I am sure that we can discuss it rationally and calmly, isn't that right, young lady?" she asked me. I looked at Kieran for a moment and nodded, before whispering, "I am not under surveillance around here 24/7 and it's good because I shouldn't be. I have my own life." "Your life doesn't belong to you as long as you are here. Hayley, I am trying to make you see the reality, because you have lost sight of that." His voice came down to a whisper and he put his hands on my shoulders, making me look into his eyes. "There is no one here who wants what is best for you except Rona, Effie and me. Can you understand that? No one. Everyone else is for themselves." "I know that." "Then stick to that thought and let the fantasies slip away from your mind." He pulled away from me after I slowly nodded my head. "Now, why don't you go out and get some fresh air? Just contemplate on what I just told you. Everything I do is for your own good."

"Okay." I whispered and put on my jacket just as Effie smiled and stepped over to me, kissing my cheeks and saying, "You are a beautiful and smart girl. Don't lose sight of why you're here and keep your head in the game. That is all we want for you. We are rooting for you to win and get out of here to be with your brother and sister." Effie told me and it was at that moment that I realized how far off I had been lately. Kieran and Effie were both right. I was not acting naturally, and I had to change that.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**The Evaluation Day**

Katherine's confession that she was pregnant with my child, threw me off guard at the Masquerade Ball. I could barely focus on what was going on in my life. At the moment, I refused to enter the apartment in which Kol, Katherine and I were residing, preferring a calmer place in which I could set my mind straight. Biting my lip, I sighed as I covered my face with my hands. In the afternoon, I would have the face the test I have been preparing for since I came here and I could barely remember which tactics I was planning on using. My brothers were both infuriating me, my sister won't speak to me and I had an ex-girlfriend, pregnant as my partner in the deadliest games that ever existed.

"Elijah?" a voice mumbled and I finally removed my hands from my face as I could finally see who was standing before me. "Camille." I whispered and stood up to greet her with a smile on my face. She rubbed her hands on her pants a little and sighed, "What is it that you wanted me to come here for?" she asked him. "I believe we have spoken at the ball the last time…when I asked you to help me with Katherine's pregnancy." I responded and she slowly shook her head, backing away a little. "I know I said I would help you. I kind of owe you after acting like such a bitch to you the first time we officially met…" She was saying, making a smile cross on Elijah's face.

"We can put that behind us now, especially when I desperately need your help." "I don't know how I can help you and Katherine with this. She is a few weeks pregnant with your child, both of you in the games. You do know that if this gets out…" "I know. It will look bad for every person who has contributed in creating these games and they will not like it…but there is a chance that they will release Katherine from the need to be here. She can survive, go back home to her family and raise our child, in hopes that I might survive." Camille shook her head again and I realized that what I was suggesting had low chances of happening. "What can I do?" I felt her hand on my shoulder and I looked up to meet her eyes. "Talk to her. You can do a psychological analysis on her and find out the intentions she has towards this child. Help me understand if she is feeling depressed, happy…suicidal." Cami's eyes widened.

"You think…?" "Please, just do this for me. Please." I touched her hand and she looked a little affected. "I guess I can try some talking. That usually helps." Cami whispered and looked away from me at once, taking a pen and a notebook in her hands. I smiled a little and took her hand in mine, leading her to my apartment. I could see Katerina sitting there, with her hands across her chest and it was as if she was in fact expecting us. "I thought you were ill." I commented and touched her hand affectively but she pulled away. "I was, but then I saw you sneaking out and I began to wonder how well you are taking the news I have brought up yesterday. And what is she doing here?" Katherine asked, pointing at Camille.

"Elijah asked me to come and help you with your…condition." "You told her?!" Katherine exclaimed at once and punched me in the arm. I frowned at her and warned her in my own way. She shook her head in disbelief and touched her belly. "You better not tell a soul about this or I swear to God that I will have the pretty blonde head of yours removed the second we get in the field." Katherine warned her and Camille took a couple of steps back, burying her head in her notebook as she was scribbling down something. I grabbed a hold of Katherine's hand and pulled her towards me with a frown. "What are you doing?" "What are you doing? Since when are you friends with this one?" "Katerina, she is here to help you because I asked her. She is doing both of us a favor and I can assure you that she can be trusted."

Katherine smirked and shook her head. "The all too noble, Elijah. You've always been like this. You trust any woman who crosses your path." "If that is what you believe, then you have not been paying much attention to me after all, Katerina. You don't know me as well as you thought you did." I replied to her and moved back to Camille, looking at her almost pleadingly. "Can you help her in any way?" "I can try, but only if she will let me. Psychology is a difficult part of my knowledge and in order for her to stay focused on the games so no one suspects, I will have to work with her today…even though the evaluation is coming up this afternoon." I pursed my lips as I understood that this was going to mean a lot coming from her, just to help the two of us.

"Tell you what I am going to do, Camille. You have a nice conversation with Katherine for a couple of hours and I shall spare some of my hours in return to prepare you for what is to come today." A smile formed on her lips which I had not seen before and she eyed me wickedly. "Is this a trick?" I smiled back and shook my head. "Are you really going to help me? How? You don't even know how low I am at fighting." "You are a strong woman on the inside and you should be given a chance. You need to have knowledge if you participate in these dangerous games, not just muscles and other physical structures." I explained to her and she showed me her white teeth before nodding her head, accepting my proposition.

Katherine was tapping on her heels behind us and I immediately pulled out of my trance, looking at her. "What is happening now? I am not going to sit here quietly and listen to her rubbish." She snapped at me and then pointed at Camille. "Don't be rude. She wants to help you." "No. She wants to help you." Katherine pointed out, crossing her hands over her chest and rubbing her tongue over her lips. I stared at her in shock at her sudden change of personality. What happened to the Katerina that I used to know? Was she there at all? Was she always this way and was playing an act around me? Those questions reluctantly remained in my head as I saw Camille joining Katherine on a couch, ready to begin.

**District 1: Kol Mikaelson**

**The Evaluation Day**

"Dear, sister! How are you?" I exclaimed with a smug look on my face as I noticed her walking towards me. It has been a while since I last saw her face and she looked downright pissed, as always. "What the hell are you doing here?" she asked me and I shrugged. "I guess I just got tired of the old drama back at home, figured I should come here and help Elijah. Also glad to see you and Nik after so long. You haven't changed much, Bekah." "Fortunately for you, I will and I won't be so kind if I hear that you came here to disrupt Nik from winning." My eyes widened at her comment. "Not looking out for yourself? Nik is still my brother and you know how much I care about family. I won't do anything!" I insisted.

She still didn't look convinced. "So, you just placed yourself in front of death for no reason, trying to swing by it?" Rebekah asked me. "Actually, I figured that I might as well be with my true family here, seeing that my family at home has practically abandoned me." "What family? Mother?" "And Elena." She frowned the minute I said that and I had a feeling that she would. "What about Elena?" Rebekah asked. I sighed with a smile on my face and shook my head. "Mother knew what I was getting into when I went after Elena and she let me do it, but as it turns out, President Snow always had other plans for them." "Who is them?" "The Pierce sisters. They are kept to produce heirs to the man at the Capitol. Caught myself at her doorstep…and she was in bed with the eldest Salvatore."

Rebekah closed her eyes and shook her head. "Kol, I am so sorry." "It's nothing. The moment I saw what I saw, it looked like she was already dead to me." "Don't you play with me, Kol Mikaelson! I know how you act when you get your heart broken. I am your sister and I am here to tell you that everything is going to be okay." She wrapped her arms around me and pulled me into a hug that I knew only she could offer. It was a sign of hope for me that we could all be what we were before our parents split up. We could be a family and we really didn't need our parents for it. "But what about Katherine? She is a Pierce too." "They made an exception for her, apparently, not that I care. That is Elijah's business, not mine." "I think we should tell him the truth." "He is still in love with Katherine. He won't accept the truth."

"Then we must make Katherine tell him the truth. If she still cares about him or has any respect of what they shared in the past, she better bloody well tell him what she and her sisters are reserved for. Who knows what can happen if Elijah is led on to believe that he might still have a chance at winning her back?" Rebekah was desperately telling me and I shook my head with a smile. "Elijah is not that stupid, sister and I think we both know that our dear old brother is too focused on the games to pay attention to any women." Rebekah smiled and nodded. "That sure sounds like him, but it doesn't sound like you. You have that smile on your face, Kol. I could recognize it from anywhere. What happened at the ball? Did you meet someone special? Is that why you got over Elena so quickly?"

The amazing thing about my sister was how easily she could figure out my feelings. "What makes you think I met someone?" I asked and sat down on the bench, with my hands behind my head, looking smugly at her. Rebekah rolled her eyes and said, "Come on! I know you, Kol." "Well, if you must know, I did happen to meet a great gal at the ball. Of course, she was pretty enough but wouldn't let me see past her eyes and hair…and that smile." "She wouldn't take the mask off?" "No. But she did know who I was, even if I was wearing my mask. Funny thing…I know she is a tribute…but I don't know who it could be." "A tribute? You can't be serious." Rebekah groaned and shook her head at me again.

"What's wrong with that?" "You are competing against her; you can't possibly find her attractive." "What if I do? If Nik can find some attractive gal to spend time with while we're here, why can't I?" "What are you talking about?" Rebekah asked me, exasperated. "Nik and that chick from 12. Hayley Marshall, I think is her name. You so haven't seen the way Nik looks at her." "You are ridiculous. Nik doesn't have serious feelings for any girl he meets. They are all just distractions, so he can stop worrying about his issues, like Caroline was." "Oh yeah, I heard of the though break up. The girl couldn't handle it." "Tell me about it! She still comes over to our house and Father lets her." At the mention of my father, I could feel my lips pursing and I couldn't find a reply. Rebekah noticed it right away and she gave me a gentle push on my shoulder. "You don't have to hide how you feel about Father." "What do you want me to say about the old man? The minute he and Mum didn't work out, he told me and Elijah to leave with her."

"They spilt us up equally. You and Elijah went with Mom, and me and Nik remained with Father. That's how it is." Rebekah explained to me. There were a couple of minutes which followed when she remained silent and so did I. She suddenly looked at me with a smile and said, "I missed you, you know. I wish you would have answered my letters whenever I sent them to you." "Mum didn't want me to be in contact with you, thinking she would have to be in contact with Father afterwards." "That is just rubbish! Now come on!" She gave me a push up and said, "I am going to help you find the mystery girl you long for. If she is a tribute, I don't think it can be difficult for you to look through them and find the right one." "You really are something." I told Bekah with a grin, accepting her offer.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The Evaluation Day**

My mentor had advised me to spend some quality time of my own before the games. Speaking with the people in my group right before the evaluation was not an option. I needed to stay focused, and prepare myself with what was to come in that afternoon. I decided to stay in the hotel garden, using my most special skills to take off dummy heads and send swords into the bull's eye. I grinned the moment I hit the jackpot the tenth time in a row. I was going to get a really high score, I was sure of it. But I wasn't expecting such a distraction to follow me. She looked worried and she had her chocolate brown hair covering her face, as she had a letter in her hand.

I didn't know what had gotten into me. I let go of my spear and I stepped over to her. Her eyes widened the minute she saw me, without my shirt on. Noticing the blush creeping on her face, I let go of a small chuckle as a frown appeared on her look. "What are you doing here?" "I am getting prepared for this afternoon. What are you doing here, little wolf?" Her face was reddening by the second and the minute I whispered my nickname for her, I had made it even worse. "I need to go." She finally said and pushed past me, but I wasn't going to let her go that easily. I grabbed her arm, and pulled her into me.

"Klaus, please stop doing this. I am busy." "With that letter?" Hayley bit her lip and looked around. I could see a worried expression on her face, as if she were afraid that someone could hear her. "If it is the cameras you are worried about, then don't be. I know the places in which cameras are kept to keep an eye on the tributes and this garden has none. It's alright, love. You can talk to me." I assured her but she shook her head again and tried to pull herself away from me but I wouldn't let her. "I don't want to talk to you, Klaus, so just let me go and stop being such a jerk." "I didn't seem to be that jerk to you that night." Hayley was blushing madly, but I could see that she was trying to hide a small smile.

"What happened…was a onetime thing…and it will never happen again." She whispered close to me, sending me off guard. "Of course, love, if that's what you wish." "So please, stop reminding me of it. I had made the biggest mistake of my life." "Why is that?" "Because you're you and I'm…me." She looked exasperated and I saw something different when she looked up into my eyes with her gorgeous hazel ones. She had issues…family issues. She most probably missed being with her brother and her sister. She very well missed the mother who abandoned her when she was still young, and her father, who had passed away. I saw the letter in her hand and I could make out on the envelope the names Jake and Lucy, her brother and her sister. And then it hit me! She was trying to send them a letter, something which, with a few exceptions, was forbidden at the Capitol, for tributes. "What are you doing with this?" I asked her and gently let go of her arms, as she took a small step back. She didn't want to lie to me. I could see that. She told me the truth I wanted to hear. "I need to find…a way."

"What way?" I pushed on her. She looked at me for a long moment and I stared back at her, trying to read every emotion on her face and she gasped a little as I pulled her envelope with the letter from her hands and stared at it for a long which, before whispering, "This is for them, isn't it? You brother and your sister?" She didn't answer me and I knew that I was right. "Klaus, please don't…don't say anything." She practically begged me. She really thought that I was going to rat her out. I frowned at her and I could feel her getting nervous as she stared at the envelope in my hands. "I have a way, love. I need to send out a letter to my father anyways…I will make sure your brother and sister get this." Her mouth parted a little and I could tell that she was shocked and she wasn't expecting something like this. A smirk appeared on my face as I said, "A thank you from you would be nice, love." "Thank you!" She exclaimed at once.

I pulled away from her and stepped back to the bag where I kept all of my weapons for battle and slid the letter inside, as I looked back at her and I could still see that shocked look on her face. "Why are you doing this for me?" she asked in barely a whisper. A tear slid on her cheek and I have to admit that she really caught me off guard this time. I couldn't remember the last time I saw a woman as beautiful and as tough as her, expose her true emotions of sadness. She had a hard time trusting me, but I couldn't blame her. My family had a reputation and even if a couple of days ago, I would disagree with her and with my sister, I had come to realize the injustice the other people in districts were given, in favor to us. "Is it hard for you to believe that I can do something nice for someone?" I asked her back, afraid of her answer.

When she nodded her head, I could feel my heart shattering to little pieces. It was cruel, but at that time, I realized that it was something I deserved. She was a mess on the outside but I was just as much of a mess too, only on the inside. "But I thank you. You don't know how much this means to me." She whispered and I looked at her to see that she was forcing a smile over her tearstained face. I couldn't help but walk over to her and brush a finger over her cheek, murmuring in her ear, "Anytime, love." I sent her shivers down her spine as she told me, "Good luck today." Before departing as quickly as possible from the garden. I stared back after her, realizing that this was the most emotional moment I had witnessed with her or with any other woman. I knew that I needed to know more about her. About where she comes from, her reputation, everything. I wanted to help her. I longed to help her, the best way I could and I couldn't understand what made this girl so special.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Evaluation Day**

Moving back to my apartment, I had never felt so emotional. Even Josh could see that I was feeling, different…and that was just before the evaluation. "What happened to you? You didn't get some fresh air like Kieran asked you to?" he asked me and I simply shook my head, sitting on the sofa as he sat by me. "Hey, listen…" he began and I looked at him as I saw that he was trying to find his words. "I know that we haven't really seen eye to eye lately…problems and stress because of what we've gotten ourselves into, but…Hayley, you should know that I do care for you as a friend. And I might not be the right person but, you can talk to me when you need someone to talk to. What's going on?" I smiled a little and whispered, "How do I know that you are not going to say anything to Kieran and trash me up?"

"Because I just told you that I see you as a friend, despite our arguments. You can count on me." Josh insisted and I could see sincerity on his face. "This is about that Klaus Mikaelson, isn't it?" he asked me and caught me by surprise. "How did you know?" "Because I know you, at least, I did get to know you these past days…and that guy, no matter how much of a tough guy he is, he got under your skin, did he not?" I sat up and walked around. "It's more than that, Josh." I was afraid that someone might hear, but luckily, there was no one in my apartment who could hear my confession. "We slept together…the night of the Masquerade Ball." I could see his eyes widening with fear at what he had heard. "What?! You slept with him?" "We got ahead of ourselves. I wasn't thinking…I just…" "Man, no wonder you stayed so silent when you got home that night."

"Josh, you promise me that I can trust you to keep this secret. We are partners in the games and all you have done these past few days is push me away when we should be helping each other. I am more than happy to help you if you help me." "Hayley, even if we were to become allies in these games, we are weak. The Mikaelson brothers have teamed up, they got their sister, and those women, Katherine Pierce and Camille O'Connell. We don't stand a chance against them all and now that you told me about…" "Josh, that was a mistake. A mistake that I…" I couldn't finish my words as he looked at me carefully. "Listen, you don't have to tell me more than you already have. That is between you and him…but you need to keep your options open if you want to make it. You need to consider the fact that he could be using you, Hayley, and that is going to come bite you in the ass one day."

There was more to tell, indeed. But even if Josh said what he said about not being able to trust Klaus' motives, the moment he accepted to send out the letter to my brother and sister, even though it is illegal to get in contact with family, remained in my head and after doing something like that for me…it was hard for me to think of him as someone taking advantage of me. "Okay." I replied to Josh and he smiled. "Now, come on! Let's get some practicing done! We have just a few more hours until the big test." He told me and I agreed. I had never felt as nervous as I felt now.

…

The tributes were gathered in a room together, all of them and I got feel my breathing hitch as I saw the Mikaelson brothers, including their sister, Rebekah, sitting together on one side of the room, with Katherine and Camille. Kieran and Effie had just brought Josh and me to the waiting room. Josh looked prepared, but I had absolutely no confidence in myself. Kieran made me look at him as he whispered, "I have no doubts that you will receive a high score. This is your chance and you must make the most of it. Think about your brother and your sister." Kieran told me and my eyes wandered to Klaus when he said that. Had he done it? Had he managed to help me? Should I be grateful to him?

I could barely look Kieran in the eyes when he showed confidence in me. Before the games, I was different and I knew that I would have never done there what I had done here. I would have never betrayed someone who had that much confidence in me. But the games have changed me, just as Kieran warned me they would. Josh was the only one who knew about what happened between Klaus and me the night of the Masquerade Ball and I had complete faith in him that he was going to keep that secret for me. "I'll do my best." I assured my mentor and he hugged me, as a sign of encouragement. Rona had dressed us up in our fighting uniforms, which matched the others, but with our district number, written in bright silver on our shoulders. "Never forget where you came from." Rona had told me when she handed me my outfit and she was right. No matter what happened here, I must remember, that I had something to get back home to. Lucy and Jake. I would give anything to hear from them again. Kieran and Effie finally left the waiting room, as Josh and I took a seat. The other tributes were discussing things with each other.

"Funny thing, how we ended up as the outcasts." Josh mumbled under his breath. My eyes were on Klaus as he was talking to Elijah, his brother. "Don't speak like that. Now is not the time to feel sorry for ourselves." Josh looked at me for a moment and noticed who I was staring at. "Don't tell me that you…" he began but I cut him off. "There is nothing going on. I told you that it was a mistake and that is it!" I snapped at him. Klaus' eyes caught mine at that moment and I could tell that there was concern written all over his face. What kind of impression had I given him of me when I cracked up emotionally in front of him? Josh rolled his eyes next to me and said, "If you want to say something to that guy, now's your chance." I looked away from that group and closed my eyes, taking in a deep breath.

"I am not just going to sit like this, waiting to be called. If you don't mind, I am going to walk around, get in touch with…my thoughts." Josh told me and I nodded, silently. "Of course." He stood up and walked away from me. I decided that it was the best thing I could do. I was biting on a nail when I saw Klaus leaving his group and walking over to me. I couldn't find the courage to say anything to he said it for me, "Are you alright?" "Just nervous." "I can imagine. Anyone with such little experience…" he began but stopped when he saw the frown on my face. "That was uncalled for." "Yes, it was!" He stayed there for a minute, looking at me, and then he looked back at his group, seeing that they were not looking at him.

He cupped my face gently and he made me look at him, as I was taken aback by his soft touch. "I took care of it. I had to send a letter to my father anyway. I took care of it." He told me and I knew at once what he was talking about and it made a smile appear on my face. My instinct told me to hug him, but there were the other tributes around and I couldn't have anyone see anything. Klaus immediately removed his hand from my face, as he realized he kept it there long enough. "Thank you." I told him and continued smiling at him until a woman called out, "Niklaus Mikaelson, we're ready for you!" Elijah and Katherine had finished already. It was time for District 2 to show what they had. "You will make it…little wolf." He told me with that devilish smirk on his face, before retiring to the room of doom.

Districts went by one after one. Soon, there were just Josh and me sitting there on the bench and waiting to be called on. "Josh Rosza!" the same woman called out and I looked at Josh, frightened a little for him. He offered me a comforting smile, before standing up and entering the room. I couldn't believe it! I was the last one. For Josh, everything ended so quick and I could see him coming out with a disappointed look on his face. "What happened?" I asked, shocked. Before he could answer, the woman called out, "Hayley Marshall!" The moment had come for me too. "I sure hope you do better than I did." Josh mumbled, before heading for the exit.

The Gamekeepers were waiting for me in fancy chairs, just above the "stage" where I had to "perform". They had no problem at all, drinking their champagne and taking bites out of fruits and other delicious meals that I could only dream of, while I was back in my home. "Hayley Marshall, District 12!" I called out as I was instructed so they could have an idea as to who I was. I was surprised that they were actually looking at me and what I was doing. I chose three weapons and three dummies I would use. First the spear, then the sword and saving the best for last, the bow and arrows. I bit my lip and closed my eyes as Klaus' image appeared in my mind, the moment during training when he told me how good I was, using the bow. I trusted him with my letter to Jake and Lucy and he had not failed me. Why couldn't I take his advice now? I cleared my throat and the evaluation had begun.

**A/N: A long chapter, this one and I hope you like where this is all going. In two chapters, the tributes will be thrown in the arena and that is when the Hunger Games will really begin. Has Klayley made some progress in this chapter, even after that night? Do you think it was wise for Hayley to share her secret with Josh, even though they are not that close? Will Kieran find out about Hayley's betrayal? What do you think of Katherine's pregnancy? And what about Elijah's relationship with Camille? **

**Many questions that will be answered soon. Thank you for reading and please leave a review with what you think! **


	13. Rosemary Is Divine

**Facing the aftermath of her night spent with Klaus, has never been more difficult for Hayley, especially when she had been forced to keep it from her mentor, Josh being the only one who knows about the sexual encounter between the two. Kol asked for Rebekah's help, hoping to find the mystery girl he danced with at the Masquerade Ball, as Elijah tried bonding Camille with Katherine, hoping for an understanding so they could take care of the problem. At last, the tributes have gone through their final evaluation before they would be marked.**

**In this chapter, the tributes would have their scores from the evaluation of the Gamemakers on television, presented by Caesar Flickerman. Unable to stick to the advice of his mentor, Klaus goes off to search for Hayley, in hope that he would get closer to her, by asking her to spend the day with him. Elijah invites Camille to a special lunch, much to Katherine's dismay, only to be bombarded with the surprise of finding another pair at their spot. Kol goes through his last attempts to find the mystery girl, succeeding, as the tributes prepare for their national interviews. **

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Evaluation Results**

Caesar Flickerman was shown on television and I didn't know why I got the impression that I was being frightened. I can't say that I shined during the evaluation, even though I was certainly doing my best to remember what I had taught myself, what Kieran had taught me…and what Klaus taught me. A smile tugged at my lips as I remembered our talk before I could go in. He had given me the greatest news that I could receive under the circumstances. He told me that he had sent that letter to Jake and Lucy. It had an impact on me. Josh was watching me carefully as we were gathered early that morning in the living room. The results of the evaluation would be shown on television. I hated the fact of everyone knowing what grade I received, but it was the only way for sponsors to determine who the best were.

I bit my lip and Josh touched my shoulder. "Are you nervous?" he whispered to me but I smiled as I saw his lip trembling. "Not as much as you are. You didn't talk to me after you came out of that room. Did something happen?" Josh looked at me for a moment, and then looked at Kieran, who was focused on the screen and just shook his head. "It's nothing, really." "I told you my secret. You tell me yours." I reminded him and Josh's eyes widened. He realized that I did have a point. We should be able to trust one another. "I screwed up really bad, Hayley." He finally mumbled and Kieran looked at us.

"What do you mean by that? You told me that you did great." Kieran argued and frowned. Josh sighed and rolled his eyes. "What was I supposed to say to you? You were supporting me and no one has had so much faith in me before. I just decided to tell you what you wanted to hear." Effie and Rona turned to look at him too at that moment, with frowns on their faces. I realized that this was a pretty big thing. I didn't lie to them about what I did, but I didn't tell them the exact truth either. "Josh, we are trying to help you here, but you are making it really difficult for us." Kieran told him with a frown on his face. Josh leaned back into the sofa, as a cackled laughter could be heard from the television.

That smile which belonged to Caesar Flickerman appeared and the results would be up any minute. Luckily for Josh, the rest decided to pay attention to the screen and not to him. "I am so damn scared right now. If I don't get a good score, I really am screwed up. I can tell you for sure." He mumbled and I bit my lip, feeling just as nervous as he was. Forget about the sponsors, but how would I be able to face the other tributes if I had a way lower score than them? Deciding not to think about the worst, I stared at the television as Flickerman started talking. _"The results are in after five days of careful evaluation by our dear Gamemakers. Not wishing to keep you in anymore suspense, let's start now, shall we? District 1, one of your favorites, son of the famous Mikael Mikaelson, Elijah Mikaelson, with a score of…10!"_ A 10 out of 12 for a fan favorite tribute? What score was I going to receive? _"The newest member of the Games with a score of 10, Kol Mikaelson!"_

"_Also from District 1, Katherine Pierce…9." _He commented and my breathing started quickening as I looked away from the screen. I felt Kieran embrace me and I smiled at him sweetly. He was always trying to support me. Josh looked at us for a moment, before putting his hands behind his head and rolling his eyes. _"From District 2, Camille O'Connell…received an 8."_ I scoffed and this time, felt myself boiling with anger. "What's the matter, dear?" Effie asked me. "Camille O'Connell doesn't know how to use any sort of weapon. The only thing she has is her intellect. They are favoring her because she's from District 2." I commented and Kieran shrugged. "Perhaps her intellect got her far during that evaluation." "Yeah, right!" "It's not just about your fighting skills, Hayley. Intellect counts just as much. Without knowledge of many things, you can easily die from natural causes on the arena. This Camille girl can easily defend herself and get far ahead." Kieran explained. "I can't believe you're defending someone from 2."

"_Next, comes up the beautiful Mikaelson blonde, who has managed to impress the jury enough to receive a 10, as her brothers. Rebekah Mikaelson!" _The rest stayed quiet as Flickerman exclaimed, _"Niklaus Mikaelson, District 2, also a favorite at winning the Hunger Games, with a score of…11." _My mouth dropped in shock at the high score he received and I sort of looked away, not being able to look at the face which belonged to the handsome guy I slept with a couple of days ago. I bit my lip as I realized how far ahead we've got. How could I lose my virginity to someone like him? Why did I let him? Josh looked at me for a moment and whispered, "Cat got your tongue, Hayley?" "Shut up." I commanded him as Flickerman showed Thierry with a score of 9…and then there was Davina. _"Davina Claire…a 6." _Caesar Flickerman said with a sad look on his face and I covered my face. "Oh no, Davina." I whispered and really felt sorry for her.

The rest continued and I felt myself getting a headache on the way. District 5 showed up with Diego receiving a 9 and Gia receiving a 7. The Gypsy, Monique from District 6 received an 8, surprising the jury with her, what should I call it…evilness. The redhead named Genevieve from District 9 got a 7, even though she can very often be provocative. Her partner, Kaleb received an 8. The ones from Districts 11 came up, and I could already feel myself getting dizzier by the minute. _"Marcel Gerard…7." _Hearing more of these scores, made me feel like the last one on the planet. _"Sabine Lenore, with a score of 6." _The ones from District 11 were always working through labor and even though they offered plenty of fruits and vegetables for the Capitol, they have never been appreciated, as the others. They were the inferiority of us all, so their scores were already waiting for them even before the evaluation begun.

At long last, Caesar exclaimed, _"Last but not least…at least, we hope not…" _He laughed at his own joke as Kieran made a rude comment under his breath. _"From District 12, Joshua Rosza, with a score of…7."_ Josh stood up and growled in anger as he felt like banging his head against the wall. Kieran stood up after him and pulled him in for a hug. "Relax. Everything is going to be fine. I promise you, Josh. This is not over for you." "What the hell do you mean? I got one of the crappies scores possible. I am not going to get any sponsors with this." "Let's calm down for a moment. There is still Hayley." Kieran whispered and made him sit back down on the couch with me. I was looking on the ground as Caesar Flickerman exclaimed, _"Hayley Marshall! District 12…with a score of…" _Here came the suspense. He was not stopping and there was that smile on his face which didn't exactly reach his eyes._ "…a score of 9_." Kieran breathed in deeply and so did the rest. "That is very good! Congratulations, dear!" Effie said to me. I felt like I could breathe again. This was the kind of score I needed. Thank God!

Something felt wrong though. Josh frowned at me. "You beat your expectations! Why the hell aren't you pleased about it?" he asked me. "Because this was too easy for me. How did I manage to impress them this way? I didn't do any better than you, Josh." I whispered in shock. "You doubt your own strength?" Kieran asked me. "No of course not. I know what I did in there and I doubt that I deserved a 9, Kieran. An 8, maybe, but not a 9." Kieran looked at me for a moment before nodding. "Then what do you think happened?" "I don't know. I just know that the Gamemakers don't like me very much since they had I have attitude problems during training and other people telling me what to do. They claim that I am Katniss Everdeen's successor and they hate it. How come they gave me such a good score?" Kieran rubbed his chin as he continued to look at me. "Maybe they played fair for once in their lives."

Kieran's thoughts about this were not very calming, especially when I had more to think about. Something happened and I believed that there was someone who influenced them to give me such a high score, but who? Josh patted my back as he rolled his eyes. "Something good just happened and instead of enjoying it, you are questioning it. Have you ever thought that maybe you are just underestimating yourself? Get a life, Hayley and start enjoying the fame you get from this. You're the next Girl on Fire." He joked and I gave him a look. I warned people many times not to compare me with the girl who wore the Mockingjay symbol on her shoulder. I was not that girl, nor was I interested in being. She failed Panem…I wasn't a failure. If I had started a revolution, I would have reached its end. I would have taken down Snow with everything I had. Right now, all I cared about was getting back home to Jake and Lucy.

"We should definitely have some champagne now!" Effie exclaimed and clapped her hands together. I continued sitting on the couch, thinking things through as Kieran whispered, "You think someone helped you get this score." "More and more, I am starting to believe it." I confirmed and Kieran frowned. "But who would help you? We are in a competition…in which help outside of your staff, does not come easily. President Snow?" "Of course not. He doesn't know me and I don't want to know him." I snapped at him. "Then who could have such an influence over the Gamemakers?" There was only one name which I had in mind, but I was not interested in telling Kieran about it.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**Evaluation Results**

"I suppose we both should be happy at this moment. It was better than I expected." I commented after Nina switched off the television and smiled at us. "I am sorry your mentor couldn't be here to savor this victory with you, but I am sure that he is proud, especially of you, Elijah." Katherine scoffed as she remained on the sofa and Nina left the room. "Are you kidding me? How can you settle for that score, Elijah? You're not the man I thought you were." Katherine commented to me and I sighed, sitting down next to her. "Katerina, we have gone far. You are a beautiful and strong woman who managed to receive a 9 in your condition." "Well, no one knows of my condition except you and that blonde you keep bringing here to see me." "Camille has become a dear friend of mine and I hope to keep it that way." "Until you have to kill her in the arena." Katherine responded with a smirk on her face. I frowned as I was amazed by this side of her. "Camille is a wonderful person, if you would just give her a chance." I told her and poured myself something to drink.

"That Camille girl was acting like a bitch before you started speaking to her more than usual. Now, she puts on that sweet face in front of you so she can take you from me." Katherine said and stood up with her hands crossed over her chest. "I can assure you that my relationship with Camille is strictly platonic and as I remember correctly, Katerina, you and I are no longer in a relationship, despite the fact that you are carrying my child." Katherine opened her mouth to speak to me, but she couldn't say anything and just turned around, moping. "Your brother got the highest score. Surely that bothers you, doesn't it?" she asked me and I smiled. "I am afraid not." "Why? Because Cami is on the same team with him? Or is it because of Rebekah, the sister you worship like she's some sort of goddess?" "He is my brother and I still respect the bonds of family, Katerina." I replied calmly and drank the rest of scotch, ignoring her comment. "Well, I don't know why you put up with them and you agreed to become partners with him."

"As my brother, I trust him and Kol trusts him too. And of course, I trust Rebekah." "Where is the little weasel anyway?" Katherine asked and looked around. At that moment, Kol stepped inside the room with a couple of beers in his hands. "Alright, we're celebrating my 10!" he called out and threw me a beer as I chuckled and grabbed the beer from Katherine's hand, which Kol offered. "Pregnant women don't drink." I whispered in her ear and she scoffed once again. Kol frowned. "What's the matter with you?" Katherine left the room and I got an urging feeling to tell my brother that I would be a father. But somehow, the words couldn't leave my mouth and I just whispered, "Katerina has some issues with Camille." Kol shrugged. "She must still have some feelings for you, Elijah. You only broke up a couple of weeks before. I am sure you still have feelings for her."

With the pressure of the Games, I hadn't spent as much time thinking about what Katherine Pierce meant to me now, as I did before. The more I was trying to picture her face, I would see another one. The face of the blonde partner of my brother, Niklaus. I shook my head as I took a huge gulp of beer and licked my lips in satisfaction. "How are the rest of our siblings?" I asked Kol and he shrugged. "Rebekah is out shopping and Nik…I have no idea. I haven't seen him at all. Maybe he's just lurking around or bragging that he received the highest score. Of course he did. People love him the most. The Gamemakers favor him and I am sure President Snow does too." Elijah placed a finger to his lips. "I am sure that you wouldn't want to insult the President himself. He offered you a chance to be here."

"That was only because I asked him as a favor because I am a Mikaelson. Snow knows he owes Father big time for all the effort he has put into building this empire they call the Capitol. Snow would do anything for us." "Don't underestimate someone like him, Kol." I advised him. "Alright, fine! Enough about me. Now tell me. What are you planning to do for the rest of the day? How do you plan on celebrating? With Katherine?" Kol asked me and pointed to the bedroom where Katherine locked herself up. Sighting, I shook my head and whispered, "I was actually hoping I could find Camille." The look from Kol made me nervous all of a sudden. "You have it bad for this girl now, don't you?"

"I have no idea what you are talking about." "Come on, Elijah! She's partners with Nik. Anything you say to her about our team, she is going to tell him and then she is going to tell Rebekah too." "Kol, Camille and I have found some common ground and we have many things in common. I was simply looking forward to having lunch with someone like that. She relaxes me, gives me some peace of mind. It's something I have been wishing for a very long time. Katerina for me, as of now is like a tornado, a storm never ceasing to end and I cannot keep hanging onto hope that she will take me back. I am moving on and if there can be anything between us other than friendship; I am letting it run its course." I explained. "And what happens if Nik finds out?" "I don't suppose that is his problem." I whispered, leaving the room. "Alright! But make sure you get ready for the interviews tonight! We will be live on Caesar Flickerman's show!" Kol called out to me.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Evaluation Results**

"I guess congratulations are in order!" Cami exclaimed as she stepped over to me with a bottle of champagne. I grinned and took it from her. "You know what I need, don't you, love?" Cami rolled her eyes as she set down two glasses and started pouring the champagne in each glass. "I have been living with you for almost a week. I got to know you better in the process. Don't you think?" "I think so." "You got the highest score. You should be proud and I guess that means you lead our group." I smirked and replied, "I wish I could believe that. But in my opinion, you would easily support my brother over me."

Camille stopped drinking and I smirked once more at the seriousness that washed over her face. "Which brother are you referring to?" she asked me and I rolled my eyes. "Are you serious, love?" "How serious would you like me to be?" "I heard rumors that you often visits Elijah on the first floor. Kol even believes that the two of you have something going on." Cami scoffed and shook her head at me. "Oh please! I am only helping him because Katherine is pregnant!" she exclaimed and gasped, covering her mouth, realizing what she said. My eyes widened. "What?" I whispered. "Klaus, you can't tell anyone about this." "Katherine is pregnant? Is it Elijah's?" "She claims it is." Cami mumbled in answer to my question. "Why didn't he say anything?" "Because he knows how risky it can be. Word gets around fast here and the press and especially Caesar Flickerman are going to make Katherine feel uncomfortable if they find out." "We are family. He should have told us…yet you are the only person who knows apart from me?"

"I think so. Yes." Cami answered and I chuckled. "And you claim that there is nothing going on between the two of you. Obviously, he cared enough to share one of his deepest secrets with you, and not his own family." "Klaus, you and Elijah have not spoken to each other for years. He doesn't trust you anymore and the only reason he came to me is because I owed him and he asked me to look into Katherine's pregnancy and help her. That's all there is to it. Please, leave it alone." "What about Kol?" "Kol can't keep a secret. Of course he couldn't tell him. I don't even know if he can trust me again now that I spilled the secret to you." I stood up and drank the last of the champagne. "I am sure that I would be most pleased to have a little chat with him."

There was a knock on the door and they opened widely, showing Elijah there and Cami stood up to greet him. "Hi, what are you doing here?" she asked him. "I was hoping we could have lunch. I saw the score. You did well." He complimented her which made me roll my eyes before exclaiming, "Congratulations, brother!" Elijah frowned as he stared at me. "What are you talking about? The score?" I shrugged. "That too. But mostly upon hearing from Cami that you are going to be a father." Elijah's eyes widened and he eyed Cami darkly as she opened her mouth to speak but nothing would come out. "Calm down, brother. It was an accident. She didn't mean to tell me. She was simply, how should I say it? She was protecting the development of your relationship, since she has been visiting your chambers quite often." "Elijah, I am so sorry." Cami whispered and covered her face with her hands but the anger on my brother's face washed right away, looking at her. "It is alright. He is after all my brother. Come, have lunch with me. I shall speak to you later, Niklaus!" he called out to me as he left with Cami.

Gora came inside the room and cleaned up the cups of champagne left behind with a scowl written all over her face. "You aren't going out to have a good time? The rest of the tributes are enjoying themselves today. It's bright and early. Get some fresh air before tonight. Caesar Flickerman can put you in a spot in which you won't even know how to answer questions." "I think I can handle him. He wouldn't dare make me look bad." Gora smiled and nodded. "Of course not. He appreciates your courage and your ambition which got you this amazing score." "It's not perfect." "Personally, I think you deserve a 12, but the Gamekeepers are trying to set a limit this year…after the recent failed revolution against The Hunger Games…let's just say that they have decided to cut some tributes some slack. So, go out, why don't you? Have some fun with someone."

Her suggestion ran clear inside my head and I smiled as I realized who I wanted desperately to spend my afternoon with. Her dark curls, the way my hands found comfort in them, her pink lips, the ones I had kissed so many times that night. They felt special against mine. Her skin, her olive oil skin…so soft against my own. I shuddered at the thought of out night and I knew I just had to see her again. She received a 9. I smiled as I remembered the way I put in a good word for her when I finished my evaluation. She needed help. Her eyes showed nothing but stress and I knew that I would eventually have to admit to her what I did…but I helped her the best way I could. A desire of her rushed through me and I could no longer bear it. Standing up, I decided to pay the little wolf a visit.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Lunch with the Enemy**

I left my room after Kieran declared Josh and I deserved some relaxation. "So, what do you want to do? Where do you want to go?" Josh asked me with a smile. I was relieved to be out of this penthouse they set us in and a smile appeared on my face at Josh's friendlier self. He seemed much more okay with me ever since I told him the secret about me and Klaus. He seemed okay with it now…as long as it didn't happen again. Which it won't! This was one of my limits. It was bad enough that I was so mesmerized by the guy who was supposed to be my enemy and have myself lose my virginity to him…but sleep with him again? I was trying to convince myself that I was drunk that night, otherwise I would have never let that happen. "You look a little pressed. Are you okay?" Josh asked me and I smiled brightly, "I'm fine."

We got into the elevator and pressed the button to reach the ground floor. "So, where do you want to go?" Josh asked me again but before I could answer, the bell could be heard and the elevator stopped at the second floor. How did we get down here so fast? I was amazed by the speed these elevators had and you could barely feel a thing. But why have we stopped on the second floor. The doors opened and the face of Niklaus Mikaelson was shown, making a blush creep on my cheeks. Josh's face hardened as he saw him, but decided not to say anything foolish that could get him into trouble. "Hayley!" Klaus exclaimed and smirked as he stepped inside and came closer to me, taking in my scent. I cleared my throat and took a step away from him as the elevator doors closed. "Where were you headed?" I asked him politely and he looked down at me with that smirk still on his face. "I was heading up to the penthouse to see you, as a matter of fact, love. Didn't realize that you have already made plans." When he said the word "plans", I could see him staring at Josh in a menacing way. "How could you possibly get into the penthouse? You don't have the code." I reminded him and he chuckled. "There are lots you still don't know about me, love." That thought alone frightened me.

We reached the ground floor and we stepped out as Josh said, "Hayley, are you coming?" "Just a minute, Josh." I whispered and turned to face Klaus, who had his hands clasped behind his back and a seducing smile on his face as he gazed upon me. The look he was giving me was making me feel even hotter than I already was. I was practically sweating. "What do you want with me, Klaus?" I asked him in a whisper. "I thought we could have lunch. Just the two of us." I opened my mouth to speak but he cut me off. "There shall be no cameras. No Gamekeepers, no mentors and no sign of the press. Just us…no one will find us where I have in mind." Klaus explained. I could see the desire in his eyes and I would be lying if I said that I didn't hold that desire inside of me too, just to spend some time with him.

Biting my lip, I turned towards Josh with an apologetic look on my face and he understood immediately. "It's fine. Go, Hayley. Just…be safe." He whispered and eyed Klaus darkly before putting his hands in his pockets and leaving. I turned back towards Klaus, but I didn't think that I would enjoy this lunch as much as I thought I would, now that I upset Josh. We started walking and Klaus didn't hesitate to push himself closer to me as we walked, so that our arms were touching. What was he up to? He didn't honestly believe that I would make the same mistake as to sleep with him again, right? "You're feeling guilty, aren't you? About Josh?" he finally whispered when we've reached a beautiful garden. It made me gasp in shock at the wonderful sight that I had completely forgotten about his question. "It's beautiful." I whispered in amazement as I noticed a little cabin with a couple of tables, situated outdoors.

Klaus smiled at me as he wrapped a hand around my waist, making me flinch. But it was very comforting to have him by my side. I felt protected and cared for by a man. I knew that what I was saying was stupid. Klaus and I had a one night stand and he had helped me with a cause…with my brother and sister. I smiled and let him hold my waist as he led me to an outdoor table in the garden so we could watch the nature…the lake, the flowers, everything. Ordering something to eat, Klaus finally whispered, "Not a lot of people are welcome to come here but…for our family…they've made an exception." He told me and I couldn't help but roll my eyes. My hand was on the table and at that moment, he covered mine with his, making me look at him in the eyes. "I am sorry you feel this way towards me and my family, love, but it is who we are and frankly, I don't believe it's right to be judged by that." He seemed almost…hurt.

"Listen, the reason I agreed to have lunch with you and not Josh is because I wanted to thank you for what you did for me. I know that…you bypassed some rules to get that letter sent to my brother and sister but, I really appreciate it. And, because of that…I am willing to start over." I explained to him and I saw a smile appear on his face. "After what happened between us, sweetheart, I doubt there is enough time to start over. We will be thrown in the arena tomorrow." He whispered and my heart stopped. I didn't have time to think much about this. Tomorrow. I would be fed to the lions tomorrow. Our food came and he never stopped staring at me as my breathing quickened. I took a bite of the meat and smelled rosemary, licking my lips as the condiments rolled up in my mouth, deliciously. "Listen, let's not talk about what will happen tomorrow. I wish to speak to you…about us." Klaus told me.

That thought alone made me forget about the games as the image of him sucking gently on my neck and making me moan in pleasure appeared in my mind. "What about us?" "I want to take my time today to get to know you better than I already do." Klaus explained, making me smirk. "And what if I decide to ask you some questions? Will you be honest with me?" I asked him. A moment of silence followed before Klaus answered, "That depends on the question, Hayley." "Tell me more about your family." "That is not a subject I feel comfortable talking about." "But I told you about mine. You know all there is to know. It's up to you to return the favor now, please." "Little wolf…I would much rather think about you…and…" "Fine. Another question. How is it possible that I received such a good score?" I asked him. He was being tricky, but I knew that he had something to do with it. It made me smile on the inside at the thought of him making sure that I still had chances in the games. Did he…care about me?

Klaus leaned forward and took my hands in his own, whispering, "Love, that is a matter I was planning on bringing up." "So you admit that it's true. You convinced the Gamekeepers to give me that score." "It's the score you deserve, after your performance. They were originally planning on being subjective and to give you a 7 because of Katniss Everdeen." I scoffed and stood up but Klaus immediately stood up with me and said, "Please, don't leave." "What are you hoping to gain from all of this, Klaus? Why are you helping me? Why are you looking to spend time with me when you know your mentor doesn't allow it and I should not be seen with you either. Our districts are so different. Our goals are different." "Not that different, little wolf. You are in luck that your family is safe at home. I have my two brothers and my sister here with me." He said, with his eyes showing sadness. "I'm sorry for that." I whispered and he looked away from me.

Instinctively, I reached for him. I didn't realize when my hand touched his cheek, making him look at me, in shock. "I still don't understand what you want with me. Just please, talk to me." He took my hand from his cheek and sat back down at the table. Seeing him like this, I decided to sit back down as well. "Niklaus!" someone called out and we looked up to see Elijah and Camille there with us. Were they…on some sort of date? Klaus smiled a little at his brother and Elijah frowned as he saw me sitting at the table with him. "Let's find a table of our own." Cami suggested and she and Elijah moved away before any more questions could be delivered. My eyes wondered off to Klaus and I saw that he was eating in silence. "You may go if you wish." He suddenly whispered and I could see a cold stare being given to me. I bit my lip and shook my head. "I want to stay." I told him convincingly. Our eyes met and I could see that his gaze was softening. "I apologize…" he begun but I cut him off. "Your family is a lot more complicated than mine. I shouldn't have pushed you this far. I'm sorry."

The rest of the lunch was silent, as he was leading me back to my place, with his hands behind his back and a look on his face that said we have spoken too much or he has told me some things he shouldn't have. I realized that we had been sexually involved that night but we still didn't know one another too well for this sort of talk and he wasn't prepared. I didn't even know what I felt for this man anymore. Since that night…I had been looking at him with a new pair of eyes. I couldn't understand what was happening. We stopped outside the hotel and I felt his hands touch my arms, turning me around to face him. His eyes were soft and he looked like he was making an effort to speak to me the way he was. I realized that this man had a lot of baggage, a lot of secrets…all crumbling inside of him and not giving him any peace of mind. "I wish I could tell you…but I can't…little wolf."

Just hearing that nickname he had for me, made my heart flutter as he stepped forward and gently kissed my forehead, letting his lips linger, as he pulled back and making me look at him in the eyes. "You deserve the score. I did it to save your life. With a 7, you wouldn't have received any sponsors and you wouldn't have had a chance tomorrow." He told me convincingly. My breathing hitched and I could feel my heart beating twice as fast. The kiss on the forehead offered me more warmth than I could ever imagine. "Klaus…" I began but he had already started walking away, before I could snap out of this trance. I must have been standing there in shock for a couple of minutes before I heard, "Hayley! Are you okay?" Josh, Kieran, Effie and Rona were all coming towards me to check if I was okay. I smiled the best way I could at them and nodded. I knew how much this lunch changed everything between me and Klaus. We had gone to a whole different level. That night he took away my virginity was not supposed to mean much more than a one night stand…but I was already feeling different. It triggered something in both of us.

**District 1: Kol Mikaelson**

**Evaluation Results**

Rebekah had taken the time to help me find her…and she was right about her beauty. I was strolling in the yard, catching sight of her beautiful face. Imagining her with the mask on, I realized that it was her. Smirking, I stepped over to her, as I found her lonely, sitting on a bench. "Miss. Davina Claire, I presume." I whispered and took a seat next to her. She looked at me for a moment, her eyes widening before saying, "Kol Mikaelson. What do you want?" "I couldn't help but overhear the low score you receive." Scoffing, she stood up and faced him with anger. "I don't care and I don't particularly care for your gloating either. Leave me alone! I am not some source for your amusement."

I chuckled as she defended herself and stood up with her, taking her hand in mine. "Come on, darling, surely you remember me from the ball. I am, after all the one who showed his true face, as opposed to the maiden I was dancing with." Davina Claire, the girl from District 3. How could I have not seen it before? She was strong and she was beautiful, her raven hair, bringing out her green eyes…she was the girl with the mask, who refused to show her face. She bit her lip and whispered, "How did you find me?" "I took the time to do some research with my sister. Remembering your eyes, your style, your strength and especially those dazzling eyes of yours, it took no time at all."

"What do you want with me now?" she asked me, enraged. I shrugged with a smile. "Just someone to spend my afternoon with…someone with whom I can casually speak to and of course, I would like to clobber the scums who offered you such a pitiful score." I answered truthfully and I saw a smile appear on her pretty little face. "You're an ass." She commented and started walking away but I was catching up to her as quickly as possible. "I am the one who is defending your honor, sweet Davina. If you would just let me…I can be your savior, as I have been at the Masquerade Ball." I told her.

"You saved me? How?" "I asked you for a dance. Anyone who shares a dance with me ought to feel better. I know, from past experience." The laughter I heard coming from her mouth, brought more joy in my heart than in the moments I was alone with Elena Pierce back in my district. I knew what I had to do for tomorrow. Rebekah told me that we all had to fight for our lives, not caring about anyone else's. This Davina Claire was beautiful and darling, a girl I was growing fonder of, but if I had to choose between her and being a victor, choosing to win would always be first on my list.

**A/N: I am stopping here and the next chapter will feature the interviews at Caesar Flickerman's show, with all the tributes. Tension will be rising there too as some tributes ay outrageous things and some say things that would be surprisingly pleasant. What do you think about the development between Klaus and Hayley? Do you think he is truly starting to care for her? Do you think he will confide in her eventually about his family's secrets?**

**Thank you for reading and please leave a review!**


	14. The Cherry On Top Of The Cake

**In the last chapter, the tributes received their scores after some careful evaluation. Elijah had made it clear to Kol that he is not interested in pursuing Katherine again, just because she is carrying his child and left for lunch with Camille. Hayley and Klaus had lunch, discussing Klaus' involvement in her evaluation which determined the Gamekeepers to give her a 9 instead of a 7. Kol and Davina reunited without their masks and spent their day together too. **

**Caesar Flickerman is ready for the show, as this night, he will have on his stage a number of 26 tributes. He shall be asking each of them questions, some which may seem uncomfortable for others. As Hayley's turn comes, she exchanges a talk with Caesar which upsets her, causing her to say something she later regrets, forcing Kieran to fix the situation. Elijah and Katherine talk about Camille and the baby as Klaus and Hayley reunite and have one night left together. Klaus presents Hayley with proof of his kept promise towards Lucy and Jake. The night ends with tumultuous thoughts about what will happen in the morning for the tributes.**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Night of the Interview**

"You look beautiful." Rona whispered as I twirled as she asked me to, in front of the mirror. I really didn't know what to say about myself. I was too frightened to think about what would happen tonight. "How bad are they?" I asked her and turned around to look at her with worry in my eyes. "How bad are what?" Rona asked back. "These interviews. Caesar always puts you on the spot like that?" "Well, he does like to induce some drama in everything he presents and love stories during the games are his absolute favorites." Rona explained and I nodded, biting my lip as Klaus was the only one who came inside my mind when Rona was talking about love stories. But no. Klaus and I were not a love story. We were just two people who slept together on a whim. I did lose my virginity to him, and that meant more to me than I realized…but he would never feel something more for me or me for him.

"Thinking about someone special?" Rona asked me with a small smile, which I didn't know if I could return or not. "It's just…" "Just?" I bit my lip again and couldn't answer. What was I supposed to tell her? That I slept with the man who was supposed to be my enemy? That I feel connected to him in ways I never felt towards anyone before? That I find him handsome, strong and smart and that there was something about that twisted side of his that intrigued me? "I know from Josh that you had lunch with Klaus Mikaelson today." Rona suddenly said and my eyes widened. I couldn't believe Josh would rat me out like this. "Don't blame him. I pushed him into telling me where you've been and he slipped." Rona added when she saw the fury form on my face.

"Does Kieran know?" I asked suddenly, very nervous. Rona shook her head. "No. Effie and Kieran have no idea. But you need to be more careful, Hayley. There are cameras everywhere. If they find out that you have been seeing someone from a rival district, you will never hear the end of it. Publicity rumors could be your worst enemy and many people could have seen you together." I saw sympathy on her face right now and somehow, I felt like I could confide in her even more than I could confide in Josh. I sat down next to her on the couch and whispered, "I feel something when I am around him, Rona. He has been acting like a jerk but he also been protective of me. I know he cares about me after we talked yesterday." Rona's eyes widened. "Is this about love?" "No, I don't think so. It can't be love. I barely know him. I just…I've spent some time getting or more like trying to get to know him better. In some ways, I succeeded and in orders, I haven't'. He's just different than other men for me, and I like that about him." "Sexual attraction?" Rona asked me and I whispered, "Definitely yes." I didn't know why I was opening myself up to this woman so much. I simply trusted her. She sighed before looking at me in the eyes and saying, "Hayley, you are playing with fire here. Tonight is your interview…"

"Klaus took me to a place where there would be no one to recognize us. We had lunch there and that's it." "Are you sure no one else has seen you together?" I opened my mouth to speak but couldn't, as I remembered our encounter with Elijah and Camille. "Klaus' older brother was there with the blonde from 2." I explained to her and Rona closed her eyes for one moment before opening them again. "Hayley, have you lost your mind? You will be thrown in the arena tomorrow and you are already falling into the traps Kieran told you to avoid. Klaus Mikaelson could be using you." "I considered that at the beginning but no…I don't think he is." Rona smiled a little and whispered, "What happened to that tough girl who didn't trust anyone, I met at the beginning of this week?" "She's still here, Rona. She just has some different perspectives." "You really must like this man if you ignore the fact that he is from a district which is practically loyal to the Capitol and to President Snow."

"He is different from what I imagined, Rona. He can be cruel and he can be that selfish bastard who cares about no one but himself and his family's pride, but I saw a different side of him, a side of him which I recognized to be one of a little boy…who has been through so much. I saw myself in him for that one moment. We're a lot alike." I whispered and blushed a little, looking away. "Has he done anything special for you to make you feel this way towards him?" Rona suddenly asked. "He prepared me for the evaluation and he helped me received that 9." "What are you talking about?" "The Gamemakers wanted to give me a 7 because of Katniss Everdeen, but Klaus talked them out of it. He helped me." "Is this what he told you? How do you know that he is not manipulating you into trusting him?" "There is more. He sent a letter to Lucy and Jake for me. He helped me reach my brother and sister." "How do you know that they received that letter? How do you know that Klaus didn't race to Snow to show him? Hayley, you are playing with true fire here. You don't know this man."

"I want to know him." Rona sighed and covered her face with her hand. "I don't even know if I should tell Kieran about this. Maybe he can stop you from making these mistakes." "No. Please. I trusted you and that is why I told you of my relationship with him. I don't want Kieran to know. He too has been helping me so much. I don't want to disappoint him." "I really don't know what to say." "Say that you are my friend and you will tell no one about this." "And you decided to tell Josh. How do you know he won't give you away during the interviews tonight?" "He wouldn't do that. He promised me and I promised to protect him out there. We will look out for each other." "I really wish I could believe that. He received a 7, with little chances at getting sponsors. You have a 9, Hayley. Your chances of winning are much higher than his and you have given Josh a weapon he could use against you to protect himself." "I don't believe he would do that to me." Rona shook her head.

"Listen to me, Hayley. When that canon goes off in the arena, it is possible that you have some allies but like Kieran told you many times before, at some point, everyone is for themselves. No one is going to care about you and your survival out there. It is just going to be you and this little fantasy you have going on with Klaus will end tonight. Tomorrow, you will see in the arena, his true colors and I don't want you to get the impression that you can trust him." "He trusts me." "Has he given you any proof of that?" "No. I just…" "Hayley, please listen to me. This is crucial, what is happening right now and you need to stay focused. Your head needs to be in the game and nowhere else. No more thinking about what you can have with this Klaus Mikaelson guy. He is a spoiled brat from District 2, just like the rest of his siblings and those women from 1. Your worlds are completely different. They are fighting for fame and fortune while you are fighting for your life and your chance to be with Lucy and Jake again." In this entire conversation, I was beginning to understand what Rona was telling me. I placed my hand on my forehead as I realized how vulnerable I had presented myself to Klaus. He easily exploited me. He could be against me. He could be laughing with his siblings at how he was fooling me at this very moment. Maybe he didn't even send those letters to Jake and Lucy. Maybe he didn't help me with my score. He could be a liar for all I know.

Rona placed her hand on mine for a moment. "I understand you, Hayley. I am a woman too and I am not like Kieran. You need to see the truth about Klaus until tomorrow." "What are you saying?" "If the two of you are getting as close as you claim you are, I want you to spend some time alone with him tonight after the interviews and I want you to make it clear to yourself whether or not he is using you to make you vulnerable during the games, or maybe he is being sincere and he is developing feelings for you." "Rona…" "Just try it my way. Go to that one place you know you won't be followed and just talk. Let me know what you learn of him afterwards. Do you accept the challenge?" I looked at her for a moment before nodding, "Yes, okay." "Now, twirl around once more so I can get a look at you." I smiled as I twirled in my silver dress, the same sort that attracted the moonlight. Rona believed that since the interview was outside, I might as well show true colors and bring something special for the crowd to be cheerful and root for me.

"Ah! She looks divine!" Effie's squeal could be heard as the doors opened and she walked inside with Kieran behind her. Rona sat back down on the couch and winked at me, as if to promise me that what we discussed would remain between us. I still haven't found the courage to tell anyone but Josh that I slept with Klaus that Masquerade Ball night. How could I face something like this if it did get out? But no. Josh wouldn't do this. He needs me as an ally out there and Klaus has always scared the hell out of him. He wouldn't do something like this. "You are going to impress." Effie informed me with a smile as Kieran patted my back. "It's time. I told you what you should say and what you shouldn't. You'll be just fine, Hayley." "Where is Josh?" I suddenly asked and Kieran said, "He is already outside, waiting for us to join him so we can head to the show." There went my chance to speak to him about the secret.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**Night of the Interview**

"Your suit is ready, Elijah." Nina called out to be with a smile. I nodded and she departed from my chambers as I stood up and arranged my tie. It was the night of confessions, as my mentor told me. I would be answering some of Caesar's difficult questions regarding my family and my relationship with Katerina. I knew just what was needed to be said. But was it possible for them to find out anything about the baby Katherine was carrying and certainly not my relationship with another competitor, Camille. Caesar would surely ask me about her. I knew we had been caught together a couple of times.

"_Your brother. He is sitting there with the girl from District 12. Doesn't that bother you at all?" Camille asked me as we took our seats at the table. I looked over at them and saw them talking, in a more serious manner and it surprised me because whenever I have seen Niklaus with a woman, someone like his former girlfriend, Caroline, he never used serious talk. My brother was always the openly-flirtatious type. I looked at Cami with a smile and whispered, "I don't see any reason why Niklaus can't have lunch with her." "Well, he is my partner and I find it a bit disturbing to be honest. He shouldn't be seen with someone like her." "If I understand it correctly, we shouldn't be seen with another either, and yet, here we are." I pointed out and she offered me a small smile. "I guess you're right." _

"_This Hayley Marshall received a 9 on the evaluation. I had no idea she was that good. Could she be a threat?" Camille pointed out and I shook my head. "I asked you to join me for lunch so we can talk about us, not Niklaus and the girl Hayley." The beautiful blonde smiled once more and nodded. "Point taken, Elijah…but you said you wanted to talk to me about Katherine and the baby she is secretly carrying, not about us." "Would it be a problem if I desire to know more about you?" She looked uncomfortable for that one moment and I had no intention of making her feel this way. I covered her hand with mine and she pulled it back. "Elijah…" "Just try to see this my way."_

"_Do your best to understand that I have agreed to help you because we are friends. I like spending time with you but I don't want to think of something more." "Would it be wrong?" "I wouldn't put it like that…but…you have Katherine and she is carrying your child. She was your first love and I think she makes you happy. Be happy with her. I know it's difficult for you to think you might lose her out there and the baby, but she can look after herself and who knows, maybe there will more than one winner this year too. You can save her and your baby." "You have no way of knowing that…but there is a possibility, I shall not hesitate in keeping you alive. Districts 1 and 2 are now allies." "Just for now." Camille reminded me but I refused to believe it._

"_I know how much family means to you, Elijah and that is why I greatly admire you, but I can't get involved in something like this, especially when the games are tomorrow. They are starting tomorrow and I need to be ready." "I desire to be with you." I said before I could stop myself. She couldn't say anything as she continued staring at me. "I really have to go." She whispered and stood up from the table, leaving. I let her go, as I did not want to go against her desires. But I couldn't deny that what she had said to me now, had hurt me more than I would have expected. And I was not a man to be easily hurt. Katerina had scarred me…but when I was with Camille, I felt complete. _

The smile disappeared from my face as I heard Katherine entering my room. She looked stunning in a black dress. "I just wanted to let you now that we have to leave. The interviews start in a half an hour and we need to be there before." "You shall be the first one interviewed. Are you prepared?" I asked her. "Why do you assume it's me and not Kol or you?" "Because they always start with women from the districts. It's only polite." I explained to her and she nodded. "I trust you, Katerina and you will not mention the baby to anyone." "Would it really be that bad for the public to know that I am pregnant? They could help me. I could get more sponsors, and even more sympathy. I can survive this." I turned around to face her. "They will use the information against you and against me. The other violent tributes are just waiting for an advantage in the games against us." "We have allies. I can protect myself." "If you do this, you will be putting your life, my life and the baby's life at risk." I told her.

"Don't pretend to care this much, Elijah. I told you that this is your baby but it is mine too and at the moment, it is nestled in my stomach, not yours. It's connected to my life, not yours. You leave me be because I know what is best." Katherine told me. Before I could add anything to her speech, Kol entered the room and looked in between us. "What the hell are you all waiting for? It's going to start any minute now." "And where were you, may I ask?" I asked him. "I saw you with that mystery girl from the ball, Davina Claire. Don't try anything that could mess us up." Katherine commented with her hands on her hips. Kol smirked at her and whispered, "I wouldn't dare make you look bad. Now come on already! Can't keep Caesar waiting so much. He is going to flip his mind. Nina is waiting."

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Night of the Interview**

Her silver dress looked stunning on her body. I couldn't help but admire her as she entered the room with her mentors. She had a small smile on her face and then our eyes met. I felt my heart leap and I tried to distract myself with what Camille was telling me about the interview. "You should be relaxed. Easy enough for you." She told me and I rolled my eyes. "You give me too much credit, love." "Not as much as your warrior princess over there." Cami said and pointed over to Hayley, making me sigh in utter disappointment when I saw how she was speaking comfortably around that Joshua boy. "You know what you need to say?" Cami asked me one last time. "Yes." I responded, when I heard Caesar Flickerman shout out. _"A big round of applause for female tribute from District 1, Katherine Pierce!"_ There were rounds of applause as Katherine went onto the stage.

I saw Hayley depart herself from her mentors and Josh, and I knew it was the time to see her. I slowly moved away when I heard Rebekah call out, "Nik, where are you going?" I turned around and saw her looking at me with a confused expression on her face. "You don't have that long. We are the next district, remember?" "It won't take long, Rebekah. Give me a couple of minutes." I told her and kissed her forehead, before heading to the back of the room, where I saw Hayley go. She gasped as she saw me appear. "What are you doing here?" she asked me, almost breathlessly. I watched her and I knew that she was frightened by my cold stare. I went forward and grabbed her arm tightly, whispering, "What have you told him about us?" "What? What are you talking about?" "Your friend, Joshua. What have you told him?" "I haven't told him anything. Klaus, stop it. Stop hurting me!" Hayley almost yelled out and pulled her arm away, glaring at me just as coldly as I was.

Making sure there was no one there to see us, I cupped her cheek and whispered, "Tell me…tell me you didn't tell anyone about what happened between us that night. It could affect me and it could affect you." Her eyes were looking deep into mine and it was as though I could read her perfectly. "You have." I whispered, matter-of-factly. "I did tell Josh." She finally confessed and my eyes closed for a minute, boiling with anger at the way she was defending and confiding in this boy. "Why?" I simply asked her and before she could say anything, there was gasp from the crowd that could be heard when Katherine announced loud and clear, _"I am pregnant with Elijah's baby!"_ It wasn't a shock as I was already aware of this information, but I could not believe the guts of this woman to ruin Elijah this way.

Hayley covered her mouth and whispered, "She is pregnant? Then why did she volunteer…?" I grabbed her shoulders and pushed her against the wall. "Klaus, let go of me." "You see what could happen. She just revealed a secret which could destroy my brother and her. I shall not let you do the same thing to us." Hayley shook her head and whispered, "How thoughtful of you to talk about us and not yourself." "What are you talking about?" "How stupid do you think I am? Did you think that your plan would work, that you would seduce me and then you would get me vulnerable so you could damage me during the games?" "Where did you get such insane ideas, little wolf?" "Don't call me that!" she snapped and pushed me away from her. "You are using me. You have been using me all along, just admit it. You claim that you care about me and you claim that you want to tell me everything about your family, but you never do. This is just some game to you. I am sorry. Your plan failed." "You dare question my intentions?" I growled at her in anger, before I could stop myself. "Yes." She whispered and I could see tears filling up in her eyes.

"_District 1, Kol Mikaelson!" _Kol was up, but I wouldn't care about listening to him with the situation I was facing at the moment. "Why would you tell him about how you lost your virginity…to me, of all people? Don't you realize what you have done? You have granted him a possibility to ruin you and me." I growled at her. "It was my decision to make." Hayley whispered and pushed me away from her after saying, "You don't get to control my life and my decisions here." I watched her walk away as her mentor was looking for her. I rubbed my temples in frustration as I realized this was not what I wanted to do. I didn't want to ruin my relationship with her. I couldn't deny the worry I had for her. She had given people open access to her personal life and she didn't even care about the consequences of her actions.

"Niklaus!" Elijah called out as soon as he left the stage and Caesar called out, _"Our first lady from District 2, Rebekah Mikaelson!" _I turned around and saw my brother walking towards me with a stupefied look on his face. "What happened, brother?" "Katerina confessed. Everyone knows that she is pregnant and naturally Flickerman asked me questions about it." "Crap." I mumbled under my breath and started pacing. "What else?" I asked him. "Camille. He asked me about her." "I told you to stop spending time with her. I realize you fancy her…" "She does not wish to have that type of relationship with me and frankly, I do not wish to get involved either. I am going to have a child with Katerina. I need to protect them when the time comes…" I walked towards him and placed my hand on his shoulder. "You listen to me, brother. I will not let a single member of my family die out there. We are Mikaelsons, all of us and if Katerina is carrying your child, the lot of us will protect her and the baby." "And what about Camille?"

"We are going to have to let her go. She is a distraction." "Niklaus, she is your team member just as much as Rebekah is. You cannot do that." "I am following Mother's wishes. Family above all, Elijah, even in the deadliest of circumstances. Camille cannot join us and I shall explain it to her tonight. We shall not harm her, but as she is a distraction and some tributes will think of using her to get to you, I will not have her in our group." _"Thank you so much, Rebekah! Coming up our dear intellectual girl, Camille O'Connell!" _Elijah turned around and we both watched her on television, walking up to the stage to meet Flickerman with a kind smile on her face, but you clearly see that she was bothered by Caesar's comments on her relationship with Elijah and the way she had gotten herself in a love triangle, apparently, with Katherine and the baby involved. "What bloody triangle?" I muttered, angrily at Elijah. "There are just rumors. They don't have any proof, Niklaus."

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Night of the Interview**

I would have been lying if I said that he didn't intimidate me. He did, but he was not frightening me with his rudeness. He was worried for himself and our relationship has always been a game for him. The things I have found out from his family members as I was watching the interviews one by one in front of the TV as the other tributes, was that each member had something to hide, but the story of Katherine being pregnant with Elijah's baby and him having something special going on with Camille, went off charts. Josh sat down next to me as Caesar called out, _"He's the one people are betting on winning this year's Hunger Games! Please welcome, our male tribute from District 2, Niklaus Mikaelson!" _A round of applause kicked in as my heart stopped, seeing his charming and yet dangerous smile as he shook hands with Caesar Flickerman and took a seat. He was still pissed off with everything going on, I could tell. "He's such a showoff." Josh mumbled and I shushed him as they started speaking.

"I am very happy that you could join us, Niklaus." Caesar said with a smile. "Please, call me Klaus. All my friends do." The audience chuckled and so did Caesar as he nodded and said, "As you please, Klaus. So tell me, are you excited or nervous for tomorrow?" "How can I possibly be nervous?" "Silly me. What a peculiar question indeed." Caesar started laughing and so did the audience. "I am proud to be here. I have confidence and I have everything it takes to win. The public agrees with me, no?" He pointed at the audience and they all clapped and cheered for him, making me roll my eyes, as I watched the TV. "What do you think about your brother, Elijah's secrets? Will they have an impact on your family?" "I don't choose to believe anything. We are in the Games and Elijah and I are simply allies. His personal life does not concern me, nor do I care, as we haven't seen each other for years."

They were talking about whole other things when Caesar stopped him with a question of his own. "I couldn't help but notice your interest in a particular woman here." Klaus smirked and asked, "And what woman might that be?" A photo appeared on the big screen…of me, while I was holding a bow and arrow, ready to shoot during my training. I blushed hard and I put my hands on my face as Kieran and Effie were looking at me, shocked. "Hayley Marshall, the beautiful female of District 12. Some people may call her Katniss Everdeen's successor, seeing as she is talented with the bow, just as the former rebellious girl was." "Well, let me assure you, Caesar that Hayley is nothing like Katniss Everdeen, and there is absolutely nothing happening between the two of us." "But there have been pictures of the two of you together during your training, moments in which you carefully show her how to work with her weapons." Klaus chuckled as he whispered, "Those photos were taken out of context, Caesar. We simply had a number of disagreements in which I intended on showing her the proper ways to use swords and bows and arrows." "Ahhh, so I am to understand you did it out of your desire to show her your talents."

Klaus chuckled again as he whispered, "Not to be rude or anything but when it comes to her fighting skills, I wouldn't see her as a match for anyone here." "So, you are downgrading her." Caesar pointed out and I scoffed as Klaus said, "Yes, I do. No offense, sweetheart." He said while looking through the camera, knowing that I was watching. The whole audience wooed as Caesar laughed. "Well, that was harsh, Klaus." "It's the truth." "I don't doubt that it is. But she did receive a 9 on her evaluation." "I don't doubt the capacity of the Gamemakers of distinguishing true talent from on the moment training, but I frankly believe, she didn't deserve that score." Effie scoffed saying, "He is such a weasel." I looked at the TV, angrily waiting for him to step out of that stage. Josh leaned over and whispered to me, "And that is the guy you slept with." "Shut up." I answered him right back.

The next districts came up and I managed to find some time away from Josh, Kieran and Effie in order to reach him. He saw me, as he was speaking to his brother. I rolled my eyes and headed in the other direction to a more private room, knowing that he would be following me. Sure enough, I was right and he was there in a couple of minutes. "You have no shame to say things like that about me do you?" I asked him in a whisper, barely believing what I heard. Klaus shook his head and said, "Now that you have implied that I am using you with my kindness towards you, I thought I should make it more obvious that there is nothing going on between us, little wolf, so I don't understand what the problem here is." "So, you're just playing…and lying like that. Saying that I am not a good fighter when you know I am." "I did it to save your pretty little ass from getting exposed…and mine too." "What are you talking about?" Klaus came closer to me and pushed me against the wall, leaning forward a little, whispering, "Would you have preferred I told Caesar everything there was needed to know about us? The secret meeting…the hot training…the lunch…the Masquerade Ball?" My heartbeats came faster and I had no idea what to say, as I was too lost in his eyes.

"Why are you doing all of this?" I asked him and he leaned forward until his lips found my ear and the close proximity was making me feel nervous. "It would be that much of a shock to you if I told you that I hold genuine care for you and do not wish to see hurt?" He was waiting for my response, but nothing came as he finally said, "Acting as though we hate one another, will conceal all of our secrets and both of our lives would be easier. Prepare for you speech in front of that man, and I shall be expecting you after you finish in the garden where we had lunch yesterday. I have something to show you. Make sure you are not followed." With that, he leaned away and I could barely breathe again, as I lay my head against the wall. I watched him leave with his brothers and sister.

I waited and waited…until I could hear Caesar saying, _"We are moving on to the last district for tonight. Let's have a big round of applause for the stunning, Hayley Marshall from District 12!" _I gasped and Kieran gave me a big hug, before whispering, "Good luck." And I couldn't remember how I had gotten myself onto that stage. I shook hands with Caesar and took a seat, watching the audience remain in silence, as Flickerman said. "It's great to see you, Hayley, dear. You know, you have been a subject of interest here at the Capitol." "Really? Why?" I asked at once, before I could stop myself. "Because last year in the 76th Hunger Games, the tributes from your district were quite disappointing. This year on the other hand, people see in you exactly what they saw in Katniss Everdeen when she walked onto this stage and sat on the same chair you are sitting at the moment. How do you feel about that?"

"I feel that they shouldn't make any assumptions. I am not Katniss Everdeen…I am not looking to start a war…for now, I am grateful for what the Capitol has offered me and my family." I whispered and wanted to knock my head against the wall for such words, but Kieran told me it was best if I showed the Capitol a little respect so they would learn not to confuse me with Katniss' rebellion and see me as the enemy. "I see…well, we love to hear that. Now, speaking of your family…" I closed my eyes for a moment, preparing myself for the worst as he asked me, "How do you feel about being here…far away from your brother and your sister?" How did he know about them. He smiled and said, "We know everything." He answered my unasked question. "I feel like I should be with them and holding them in my arms, telling them that they are safe and sound with me." "Do you believe they are watching you right now?" "I think they can take care of themselves but not for long. I want to be there again. I want to be home with them."

"Well, if you win, home is where you shall go, with fame and fortune along with you." Caesar whispered, smiling at me. "I suppose." I decided not to comment that much, as the moon was in our direction and it reflected on my dress, making the audience gasp and applaud. Caesar laughed and said, "People must really love your outfits. Rona's work, is it not?" "Yes." I said for the first time, I actually smiled too and I could see how much people loved it. Caesar turned to me and said, "One last question." "Yes, of course." I was eager to get off that stage and…meet him. I couldn't understand why I was so eager. Little did I know that the last question would be in fact about him. "As you have seen before, Klaus Mikaelson denies any interaction with you to have ever been romantic. I am asking you of your opinion on it. Was he lying in order to protect you and himself? Do you have something to share with us?" I frowned and whispered, "I don't know why you would even deduce something like that, Caesar. Klaus and I hate each other's guts. I am on my own and I don't want to have anything to do with him." "Are you sure about that?" he was insisting and I placed my hands on my lap and eyed him. "Yes." I snapped, firmly.

A couple of seconds passed before Caesar Flickerman shook his head and stood up. I did the same. "One last round of applause for Hayley Marshall, everyone!" He turned toward me and kissed my hand with a smile, saying, "It was a pleasure to have you here." "The pleasure was all mine, Caesar." I departed from the stage as Kieran gave me a pat on the back. "That was the best you could do and it was the best thing you did. Congratulations, Hayley! You will have no troubles with sponsors now."_ "Our last tribute for tonight, from District 12, Joshua Rosza!"_ Josh went onto the stage. I bit my lip nervously at what he was going to say if asked about me, but I really needed to see him. "I am going to go for some fresh air." I whispered to Effie and she nodded, as I left the place.

He told me to be where we had lunch the other day, and that is where he was, still in his tuxedo. Turning around, he smirked and whispered, "That dress of yours is going to give you away someday." The moon was reflecting on it and I rolled my eyes as I stepped forward to him and whispered, "I don't have much time. Josh is giving the interview as we speak so I have to go back. What do you want?" I asked him. "I want to give you something…proof…" "Proof?" I asked, surprised. "Yes. Proof that my intentions towards you have never meant to harm you. I never planned on wanting to spend this much time with you…but it is the way it happened…and I don't regret a moment with you." His words were very flattering, and it didn't look that easy for him to express how he felt. He was making an effort, yes, but it still didn't get me nowhere with him, until he pulled out an envelope and handed it to me. I gasped and covered my mouth with my hand. I could see Jake's signature and Lucy's on it.

"I made sure that your brother and sister could write you back. I have not opened it, as you can see, it is sealed and you have every right to do it, as it is addressed to you." Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked up at him with a smile on my face which would not disappear. "You did this for me?" I whispered in shock, barely believing it. Klaus smiled this time…a genuine smile, as he kept his hands tied behind his back and nodded, slowly. He took my hand and brought it to his lips, kissing my palm and saying, "As this is our last night before the games…I only wish to see you well and to warn you…that we will be hunting down tributes in a pack." "Allies." I whispered and he nodded. "You are to stay away from the open areas and stick to high grounds. I don't want to see you. Have I made myself clear?" He made himself clear as he looked at me seriously. A few tears slid on my cheeks from happiness as I nodded and said, "Yes."

With another smile…this time, a more twisted one which I love, he whispered, "Get some rest for tomorrow, little wolf." He started walking away when every bone in my body wanted me to reach out to him and I did. Grabbing his arm, I spun him around and planted a kiss on his soft lips. This kiss surprised him, as it surprised me. I cupped his cheeks gently as he laid both of his hands on my back. We must have kissed like that for a couple of minutes, before he pulled away and sighed, caressing my face and saying, "That shall never happen again, love." He snapped, but in a gentler way than I expected. From the look in his eyes, I knew that he was being serious. "Fine. But you kissed me back." I whispered with a seductive smile on my face, which matched his, as I walked away into the night.

**A/N: In the next chapter, we get in the arena and we are finally going to see some action going on. Klaus doesn't want Hayley around because he knows his family members won't be merciful with her, and he cares about her too much. This kiss was like a goodbye kiss…or was it?**

**Let me know what you think with a review! Thank you for reading, guys!**


	15. Happy Hunger Games!

**The last chapter presented itself with the finish touches. The interviews of each tribute with Caesar Flickerman turned out to be spectacular, for some people. Questions flied around and soon, it was revealed the pregnancy of one tribute, Katherine Pierce with another, Elijah Mikaelson, as well as his infatuation with the one and only, Camille O'Connell. Fights broke between Klaus and Hayley as Rona put Hayley's trust in Klaus, in question. Soon after the interviews, Klaus and Hayley have presented each other with the acceptance of their attraction for one another.**

**In this chapter, the tributes embark on the journey that will change their lives forever. President Snow offers one last speech, before the tributes are thrown in the games. Hayley and Josh have a heated fight, as the battles are drawn and jealousy rises from the grave. Katherine confronts Elijah about his attraction to Camille, as Klaus, after receiving a surprise visit from someone he didn't wish to see, fights the urge to visit Hayley early in the morning. The letter addressed to her, by Lucy and Jake, Hayley keeps with her, deciding to open it right before entering the arena. The ballots have been drawn. Happy Hunger Games for them and may the odds be ever in their favor!**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**D Day For Tributes**

I never imagined that this day would come so quickly. Looking down on my lap, I saw that I was still holding that unopened letter early in the morning. I could barely sleep, thinking about what would happen today. Jake and Lucy would be hoping for me to receive this letter from them. I pressed the envelope to my lips with a smile, as I could remember what happened last night. Some things have changed and I was close to losing my mind during the interview with Caesar and revealing the intimate relationship between me and the tribute from 2, the one who is supposed to be my enemy. I lost my virginity to him…and I wasn't able to forget him since. I lost my virginity through a one night stand. My eyes closed for a minute as tears dripped on my face. I had never wished for it to go this way.

Last night, I could remember the way I planted that kiss on his lips. It was a thing of the moment, to remind him of how grateful I was for what he was offering me. I didn't know why he was doing it. Was it possible that he was feeling guilty for taking away my virginity? I refused to believe that. I was too nervous. And…I couldn't deny the attraction between us any longer. Seeing who he was and how his family is known for handling romance, I couldn't possibly think that Klaus would like me this way…but I knew that I felt something for him. What if this was a game and I didn't listen to Rona when she told me that he could be using my feelings. Deep down, I knew it was too late to change anything about it. Klaus Mikaelson was in my heart and bones. He was deep in me, carving his name in my soul. Feeling something for someone here was the last thing I ever wanted. But it looked like destiny had other plans for me. Finally, to get Klaus out of my mind, I decided to open my letter and see what my two loves have written me.

_Hayley,_

_We are here for you. We love you and please win for us. We want you back home. Mom wants you back home too. She came back to us after you left. She said that we shouldn't be alone in times like these. We were really happy when we got the letter from you and we wanted to tell you that we and Mom love you and will be rooting for you until the end. How did they let you write to us? We are so happy for that, anyway. We know that you are not allowed to send and receive letters but I am glad this happened for us. This might be the last letter we will receive from you until…just come home, okay? We love you!_

_Jake, Lucy and Mom_

My mouth parted in shock as I read the letter again. Mom? She went back to them? A part of me was really happy she was back. Jake and Lucy would need someone like her to care for them while I was gone. But the thought of having the woman who left us back into our lives, sent a disturbing taste in my mouth. I didn't want to know anything from her, what she has been and what she has been doing. The reason she left us was because she was afraid of suffering for us if we were chosen to participate in the games. What determined her to come back home once she heard that I was chosen to represent District 12? I growled to myself. The nerve of that woman, to use Lucy and Jake's feelings so she could warm her way back into our lives. If I ever get out of this place, I knew I would never allow her to hurt us again. I put the letter on the table and startled when someone knocked on the door. Josh peeked inside with a small smile. "Hey, how are you doing?" he asked me with a small smile.

"How do you think I am doing? We only have a couple of hours…and then we'll be out there, in the cold, on our own." I said with a sigh. I wasn't even scared of this like I was before. I was indifferent to what could happen to me, but I knew that no matter what, I had a brother and a sister to take care of at home. I was not going to let them in the hands of my mother. I had to get back to them. I had to try. And for that, I realized that I shouldn't be alone at all. I saw Josh's embarrassing look on his face, as he looked away from me and I had a feeling that he was trying to tell me something. "What is it?" I asked him. "Well, Miss. I got a 9…I am not sure that you would want to work with me again." "Work with you?" "Yes. We are tributes from the same district. I thought…you said…" "Josh, we are partners. Nothing has changed." I informed him with a small smile. He nodded and took a seat next to me on the bed. "It's kind of tough now, though. You will get plenty of help from your sponsors as I have none for me." "Well, if we are going to be partners, what's mine is yours, isn't it?"

Trying to divert his attention from the games, Josh picked up the letter from the table and looked over it before I had a chance to reach over and grab it. I sighed and saw him smile saying, "I didn't know that we were allowed to send letters to our families. Why didn't you tell me? Why didn't anyone tell me? I want to write to my dad and…" "Josh, don't, please." "What?" I bit my lip and whispered, "What I did was not legal here at the Capitol. If anyone finds out…" "Then how did you pull this off?" I opened my mouth to speak but I realized that I would be exposing a dear person in my heart and I didn't want that. "Come on, Hayley! You have been bending the rules since you got here and didn't get caught. The least you can do is show some support and tell me your secret. How do you get away with it?"

"Josh, please keep your voice down." I hissed and stood up, closing the door shut so no one could hear us. I was afraid. Josh knew more about me than anyone else at the Capitol and I knew that even though he was a nice guy, he could betray me for his own needs anytime. He knew that I slept with Klaus. And now, I was pretty much forced to tell him the truth about the letter too. He looked over it once again and his eyes caught mine, as I sucked in a deep breath and looked away. "Josh, come on…" "He did it for you, didn't he? I know that Districts 1 and 2 have special permission to send letters to their families. He helped you send this to yours, didn't he?" "Josh…" "Just tell me the truth about this, Hayley, or I am going to present my suspicions to Kieran." I couldn't believe my ears, as I stepped towards him and said, "Is that a threat, Josh?" "It can be. I want to know the truth." "You know too much." "So you are not denying it." "What?" "Klaus Mikaelson helped you with this. It is treason both on your part and his." "Josh, don't you dare say anything…" "I have kept your first secret and I am thinking about keeping your second one too…until the time comes…"

I couldn't believe his words. What had changed him so much? He wasn't like this at the beginning when we met on the train to the Capitol. He was too different. Rona was right about him. This was still a competition and I was the one who received a 9 on that evaluation and Josh received a measly 7. He was jealous and he was angry that he didn't receive the same chances as me. "Are you going to spill for your own gain?" I snapped at him and Josh smiled a little, shaking his head. "What can I say, Hayley? Everyone is for himself…and I have been thinking at getting back at Klaus Mikaelson for this…" "Josh, please…I just wanted to hear from my family." "And you think I don't want to hear from mine? What gives you this special permission? But I have to give you some credit, Hayley. You played your part really well and you got the evil tribute to have a thing for you. You are using him to get what you want. Smart move. I only wish I could have thought of that before. I could have seduced the pretty blonde." "Josh, you are playing with fire here." "Am I?" "Yes. Please, don't say anything that can affect you."

He was jealous of me at this moment, I could tell. I was prepared and I was Kieran's favorite. What about him? Shaking his head, I watched as Josh laughed uncontrollably and saying, "I had you all wrong from the start, Hayley. You really aren't that girl people think you are." "Klaus has nothing to do with this conversation so please leave him out of it. I don't want to hear anymore." "He is a big shot, who has fallen like the fool he is, for your charms. And what's even more epic, is how you slept with him." "Please, stop it." I hissed, feeling the need to hit him with something to get him to stop. At once, I realized what this was. Blackmail. I had told Josh too much about my personal life…and he was now going to use it against me to get far in the games. "What do you want?" I finally asked him. He clapped his hands together and said, "I want nothing more other than what you offered me. Partnership."

"You want me to share my sponsors with you?" Josh rubbed his chin, pretending to think before smirking and nodding, "Yeah, as a matter of fact, I like the thought. So anything you receive out there, food, water, supplies…they belong to me too." "Fine. Anything else?" "I am just giving you a simple warning that I will reveal everything to the Capitol leaders if something happens which I don't like. You won't tell Kieran about this little arrangement of ours, will you, Hayley?" he asked her. I wanted to respond, but at that moment, there was a knock on the door and Rona peeked her head inside. "You guys have to come to the living room. President Snow is offering one last speech for the tributes. Kieran and Effie are waiting for you both." I think she noticed the tension between us because she asked with a frown… "Is everything okay here?" "Just fine." I snapped and glared at Josh, before leaving the room. I was almost trembling, even though I should have stood strong. I was being blackmailed with my two most important secrets here. If anyone found out about the letters, I would be seen a traitor of the Capitol, costing me my life.

As expected, Effie and Kieran were on the couch, waiting for us. I took a seat next to Kieran, as he smiled at me but I could tell that he was seeing something different in me. "Are you okay, Hayley?" he asked me and I nodded quickly…too quickly. Josh came over and took a seat on the other side of me with a small smile on his face. I knew just how proud he must have been of himself right now, trying to show me up. He was trying to survive and he saw me as a threat. On one hand, I didn't blame him because if I had been in his place, I probably would have done the same in desperation to survive. But this was different. Had Jake and Lucy and I had a life I had to get back to. I was going to fight for my life. The screen lit up and the image of President Snow appeared, as he looked through the camera, proud of himself.

"_I thank you all tributes!" _I snorted and I saw Kieran smiling a little next to me as I whispered, "What is he thanking us for? Selling our souls to the devil?" _"I thank you all for the sacrifices you have made. You have been at the Capitol for a week now, and you have proven yourself worthy of participating in these games…which represent one's courage and the other's forgiveness for the tumultuous past between the Capitol and the other districts. I wanted to wish you well and to thank you for the amazing adventure you are going to produce for each citizen of Panem, who shall be watching. Happy Hunger Games to you all! And may the odds be ever in your favor!" _The screen went dark as no one was saying anything. I didn't feel like coming up with anymore snide remarks either, as I realized that my secrets were at the hand of someone who was jealous of me, Josh. I never thought he would do this to me, but I guess I was wrong. The only way I could play this right would be to make him think that he has won and he has complete control over me. I bit my lip, as I realized who I had to warn about this. His life was at stake too. And this was not about his family's reputation and collaboration with the Capitol. This was about him.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**D Day For The Tributes**

"You're not going to talk to me?" she asked me with a sight as I took a sip of my favorite bourbon and smiled at her. I believed she could notice how fake I was expressing myself towards her. "What is there left to talk about, Katerina? You humiliated me in public last night and you revealed to the world our precious gift, sitting in your womb." "I did it in order to try to save myself and this baby from the games." "Look at yourself…motherhood must have changed you. A week before you were excited to follow in the steps of the others before you." "I wasn't pregnant then. I had no one to care for but myself." "Yet you insisted that I care for you and help you through the games."

Katherine rolled her eyes as she switched off the television after watching President Snow's last speech to the tributes. "It wasn't as if you didn't humiliate me too." "And how have I done that?" "You and Camille. You have something going on and Caesar pretty much confirmed it last night. Did you even stop to think about how this was going to affect me? It made me seem as an incubator to you, as the useless woman a Mikaelson shagged and is not carrying his child." I sighed and put down the drink, facing her and whispering, "Katerina, you have no need to feel in any way regarding my relationship with Camille. It is strictly private and as you remember, you broke off our relationship days before the Reaping." "Are you implying that I am somehow jealous of you and her? I am pregnant, Elijah…with your baby! I would have thought that you would somehow keep some restrains when it comes to other women."

"I have, Katerina. But what you did last not was unforgivable and you put me in an uncomfortable position. I am going to be forced to keep an eye on you on every turn." I told her firmly and she didn't say anything more as Kol entered the room with a happy look on his face once again, which made me wonder what he was up to now. "All ready for today. It's going to be so fun killing the weak…the group of ours." He said and gulped down some beer as Katherine turned to me with her hands crossed over her chest. "Speaking of which…have you talked to your brother about what is going to follow?" "Yes, I have. It's going to be us, him and Rebekah." She frowned as she asked, "What about your intellectual bookworm?" "Katerina, I would very much appreciate it if you kept the insults to yourself. If you must know, Camille will no longer be a part of our group." I could see the smile form on Katherine's face and Kol looked shocked. "And why the hell not? Rebekah said she is smart. She could be of great use to us."

"Apparently, after what happened last night, Niklaus has come to believe that Camille is too much of a distraction for me in order to be in our group. He believes that I would be more focused on protecting her than cooperating." "Your brother is smart." Katherine pointed out and it surprised me, because she had never got along with Niklaus, never said anything nice about him or vice versa. "Well, I can very well assure you that I do not stray from these bonds of family. Camille wouldn't have been of more importance to me than the rest of you." I was trying hard to convince them but myself as well. Without realizing it, I had grown as a very special care for that girl and hearing that she would not be with us, didn't sit well with me. I had to speak to my brother about this once again, but I had a feeling that I knew what he answer would be. I could easily remember what he had told me the other night, which made my blood boil. _"We are going to have to let her go. She is a distraction." "Niklaus, she is your team member just as much as Rebekah is. You cannot do that." "I am following Mother's wishes. Family above all, Elijah, even in the deadliest of circumstances. Camille cannot join us and I shall explain it to her tonight. We shall not harm her, but as she is a distraction and some tributes will think of using her to get to you, I will not have her in our group."_

"Elijah!" Kol called out and I looked up at him, a little surprised and nodded, whispering, "Yes." "Who are we going to replace Cami with?" he asked me and Katherine looked at me for an answer too, which I couldn't offer. "No one, I suppose." I replied and Kol said, "Why don't we get the girl from District 3 to join us? You should see what she is capable of, Elijah." "Davina Claire?" I asked him, surprised and he nodded. "No, absolutely not. Davina is just as much a distraction for you, seeing that you have spent quite some time with her." "Am I not allowed to socialize with anyone other than you?" Kol asked her. "Exactly. That is why we are a team." "Enough!" I snapped at them both and they looked at me surprised, as I got myself another glass of bourbon I could digest. Not having Camille in the team meant that she was seen as the enemy. I couldn't let any harm come to her. Putting down the glass, I knew I had to see her. "Where are you going?" Katherine called out to me. "Somewhere!"

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**D Day For The Tributes**

After the kiss the other night between Hayley and me, my mind could only race back to her and her words. _"Fine. But you kissed me back." _I did…and I couldn't understand why. What was I feeling for this girl? What was I going to do about it? Why had she kissed me? Was it to show her gratitude for the letters…or was there more to it. I could barely listen to President Snow's speech, as Cami sat next to me. Her hands were crossed over her chest. We hadn't discussed the recent change of plans with our mentors, and I believed that it was best if we didn't do it at all. The screen went blank and I could hear Cami whisper, "I can't believe you would do this to me."

I sighed and looked towards her saying, "You brought this on yourself the moment you and Elijah were suspected to have something going on. If I let you be a part of our group now, you will cause a distraction for my brother…and in order to keep him alive, as my Mother requested that we work together, I don't need any distractions. My brothers and my sister are in the games with me. Leading this group…I shall not allow any of my family members to get hurt." "Katherine is your family now?" "No. But she is carrying my brother's child. She has a Mikaelson's body, soul and blood, in her womb. She shall remain with us and be just as protected, due to her child." Cami nodded and looked away from me so I couldn't see the tear that slid down her cheek. "Nothing really happened between me and your brother. He doesn't see me that way. He is still in love with Katherine." I sighed and shook my head at having to deal with this. "Cami, I'm sorry…I have already made up my mind. You are to find another alliance or you are on your own." There was a knock on the door and Gora went to answer it at once. I saw my brother, Elijah step inside and Rebekah ran up to him and hugged him. "I am so happy to see you." She whispered.

Smiling a little, seeing their embrace, I stood up to meet my brother's eyes, but he was looking at the blonde on the couch. At once, I realized that he had not come here to discuss the plans with Rebekah and me. "What?" Rebekah asked, confused when she saw the looks we were giving each other. Elijah cleared his throat and kissed Rebekah's forehead before whispering, "I am here to speak to Camille about the recent changes in our plans…so if you don't mind, I would request some privacy." I gave him a look, before nodding silently and turning to my room. I rubbed my temples as I realized I was thinking of that brunette girl with her beautiful hazel eyes and a little wolf tattooed near her shoulder. Whenever I was not thinking about the plan, I was thinking about her. Gora tapped my shoulder and I turned around as she smiled at me. "President Snow has offered permission to Districts 1 and 2 to receive guests a couple of hours now before the games begin and there is already someone here to see you."

Making my way to the garden, where Gora told me I would meet someone, I was deeply concerned that Mikael would be here to see me. I gulped as I realized I haven't given much thought into my Mother's letter to me, telling me that Mikael was not my real father. No one had to know about that. With fear in my eyes, I finally reached the garden but the fear was replaced with shock as I saw Caroline, standing there and waiting for me, smiling from ear to ear, as she saw me. "Nik!" she exclaimed and came over to me, pressing a kiss on my cheek and cupping my face with her hands. I rolled my eyes but didn't feel like I had enough energy inside of me to tell her to leave me alone. She couldn't understand that it was over between us. I barely felt anything for this girl anymore. "Caroline, listen…" "I am so glad that I could come here and see you. I have really missed you. There have been rumors going around that you…and that girl from District 12. Don't worry. I know how the public can be when these games come. They always look for some drama-induced story. But you're here with me now, so…how are you?" She had been taking fast and it was hard for me to comprehend exactly what she wanted from me. When she talked about me and Hayley, I gulped as I could remember Rebekah telling me about the dinner she had with Mikael and Caroline, and I appeared on television, training Hayley at the time.

"I am fine, Caroline. You didn't have to come here." I finally told her and pried her hands off of my face. She frowned and whispered, "Of course I had to come here, silly. I was worried for you. Elena is worried for Kol…" I growled at the mention of Kol's past crush, Elena. Rebekah had taken the liberty of informing me about the Pierce sisters and what they were reserved for by the Capitol. I thought I could tell Elijah about Katherine but seeing that she was now pregnant with his child, it didn't matter as much. "Nik, come on! What is it? Don't tell me that you don't feel comfortable around me anymore." Caroline whined as she put her hands on my face again. I sighed and knew I couldn't yell at her. The last time I did it, it got me nowhere and stress was not an option for me, now with only a couple of hours left.

"Caroline, I think it's best of you left." I told her calmly and I noticed a deep frown appeared on her face. "What are you talking about? We're together…" "We are not together, Caroline, please do try to understand that and get the hell out of here." I mumbled and turned to leave, but she grabbed a hold of my arm, pulling me back and crushing her lips against mine. I stayed like that for a moment, not knowing how to react to her kiss, when I finally got to my senses and pushed her off of me. "What are you doing?" I asked her with a small growl. "I can't believe that you are still not over that. You really want us to be over? Why? We mash well together. We have been together for a long time. Why can't you see that what we have can't be replaced? Why are you doing this, Nik? Is it because of that whore I saw you with on TV?" she snapped at me and this was the first time I truly saw an angry Caroline. "I wouldn't dare let you insult her this way." "So it is about her? You and that horrid girl from 12? Do you know what people say about her? Nik…you can do better than that." She tried to cup my face again but I turned away.

"And by better, you mean, you?" I asked her and she rolled her eyes before flashing me one of her adorable smiles and nodding. "Of course. We are from the same district, and we fit perfectly. She is just some tramp from a way poorer district who is most likely going to die today or tomorrow. Let her go and tell me that you love me before you leave." I took in a deep breath, trying to gain control of my anger, before I saw her standing there, watching us. Our eyes met and I could see that hers were slightly blurry, as she quickly looked away and started walking back to the hotel. Growling, I grabbed a hold of Caroline's shoulders and hissed, "Get it into your thick head, love. I don't wish to have the pleasure of your company any longer. Whatever we had…it's over!" I snapped at her and this time, I think she finally received the message. Screaming in anger, she stomped away from me.

"Hayley!" I called out to her but I could see her trying to walk faster. Luckily, I was faster than her and reached her in time, by grabbing her hand and pulling her towards me. "Are you alright, love?" I asked her in a comforting whisper. I could see her wiping away some tears, which made me stare at her in shock. "I was right. This is some game…and the fact that you did the letter thing for me does not prove that you aren't going to use what we have between us against me out there. I can't trust you. Please, leave me alone." "What exactly do we have between us, little wolf?" "Nothing." She barely whispered. "Please, explain this to me once, love. What is going on with you? What do I have anything to do with it?" Hayley shook her head as more tears washed on her face and I was forced to wipe them away. "You are nervous regarding today." I finally whispered and she looked at me in surprise, even though it wasn't much of a guess. "Who was that girl?" she suddenly asked me and I could sense the bitterness in her tone.

"Her name is Caroline, love." "And what was going on back there?" "How much of it have you seen?" "I walked by just as I saw her kissing you." Hayley responded and crossed her hands over her chest, making me chuckle. "If this is about jealousy, love…" "I am not jealous." "I was going to say that there is no reason to be. Caroline is an ex-girlfriend of mine who refused, until today to move on. I put an end to it. You shouldn't worry your pretty little head off of that one." I caressed her cheek and chuckled, as she shook her head and said, "Josh is blackmailing me." My eyes grew wide and I asked, "What?" in a whisper. "He said that if I don't help him in the games and share my sponsors with him, he is going to tell everyone that we slept together…and he found out about the letters too." "What?!" I gasped in anger. "He found my letter today." "How could you have been this careless?" I snapped at her with anger. She refused to answer and I sighed, looking at her as she looked away from me.

Finally, I whispered, "I shall take care of this, little wolf." "Klaus, no…I don't want you to get involved." "The moment that prick threatened to sell you out along with a Mikaelson is the moment I got involved in this subject. Joshua Rosza will not see the light of another day starting today or tomorrow. It depends…if I find him, or not." "He is going to be with me at all times and you are going to be with your group. What are you going to do? Kill me?" she asked me and I could see her on the verge of shedding tears again. I looked away from her and whispered, "I don't know what you expected to come out of this, love. You said it yourself. We come from two different worlds and here is the moment where all worlds collide, but only one stands." "And that world is your family's." Hayley nodded with a spiteful smile before starting to walk away from me again. Groaning, I caught up to her and whispered, "I don't know what you would have expected me to say to you." She stopped in her tracks and looked at me deep in the eyes. "Maybe the night of the Masquerade Ball didn't mean all that much to you but it meant a lot to me."

I didn't have a response for that, so I let her continue. "I lost my virginity to you, one of the most precious things I have. A real treasure for someone from where I come from." "Yes, it happened. It was a night like no other…when I felt different being with you as well…but it was one night, Hayley and I thought we have agreed last night that something between us can never happen again." "One night." She whispered and shook her head a little. Seeing the look on her face, I couldn't let it go this way. "Hayley! Little wolf." I whispered and pulled her close to me, raising her chin so her eyes could meet mine. "This is the moment we have been waiting for since we arrived here. The games…we are finally thrown in them…" "No. You're right. I am just being immature because…" I desperately felt the need for her to finish her sentence but she pulled away from me with a slight smile and whispered, "Good luck. I am sure the odds will forever be in your favor…and your family's." I let her walk away from me, as I felt something unusual, coming from my heart.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**D Day For The Tributes**

"Are you okay?" Kieran asked me as we reached our personal room with Rona following us. The flight was very unpleasant and I felt like vomiting half way. I kept my head up high and nodded, as Rona put on my suit. "Where is Josh?" I asked Kieran and he said, "He is in the other compartment with Effie, waiting for us. We have to take care of you first." I bit my lip as I thought about Josh's warning towards me. I had no choice now. In order for me not to lose support and also possibly my life for sleeping with a Mikaelson…I had to help Josh. "It's waterproof and it can offer you extra protection from any sort of burns." Rona whispered to me. I could see why she was upset. We had grown to like each other these past couple of days, even though at the beginning, we didn't get along at all. I turned around and pulled her into a hug, as she whispered in my ear, "Be strong, girl. People are rooting for you. Don't forget that. Win these blasted games so you can go home." I nodded and pulled back, smiling at her and saying, "I will."

Turning back to Kieran, he offered me a hug as well. "I just wanted to let you know that I am really proud of you, Hayley. Do not let anyone get you down. You remember what I told you along the way. You are a smart girl, as stubborn as you are. With that 9, you will get all the help you need out there. And remember…when you hear that canon go off, it's just you. No one else matters but you, do you understand what I'm saying?" he asked me and I nodded, saying, "Yes." There was a robot which could be heard, informing the tributes they had ten seconds left to get into their capsules." "Go ahead." Kieran said and pointed me to the capsule. I nodded, bravely as I headed in there and the door automatically closed, keeping me inside, as I faced Rona and Kieran. They were smiling at me…and up I went. I couldn't believe that this was finally the moment for which I had been preparing for this week. I was an official tribute in these games and I knew that it was crucial that I should win this. I had a reason, back at home. Lucy and Jake were people to fight for. They were my family.

The sunlight was shining brightly above me as I was set on the arena. The other tributes were around me and I had to control my heartbeat, as in a couple of seconds, I could see Josh appearing from his tube as well. His eyes caught mine and smirked at me as I looked away from him. The countdown had started and no one was moving from their posts. If you did, you would be shot dead at once. I made sure not to move, as I heard the countdown in my head. He was six spots away from me, and I could see the look on his face. He was focused, concentrating on himself. Our eyes met and I could see the worry on his own face for a moment. It made me wonder what he was thinking about when he saw me.

I never thought about the possibility of us meeting. I had to do what he told me to do in order to avoid that. He told me where to go, in places where he and his followers won't be. I bit my lip as I continued to look at him and he looked back at me. We were both startled as it started, "10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2…1!" There was a loud ringing noise and everyone jumped from their posts, heading for the Cornucopia. It was the one place Kieran told me not to go to. I knew what would happen. I would be dead in a couple of seconds. While people were picking up their weapons, I grabbed the nearest backpack I could find and ran for it into the woods, knowing all too well that Josh was following my every move.

**A/N: Finally, the games have started and now it's just starting to get interesting. Do you think Klaus and Hayley will cross paths? How long do you think Josh is going to keep blackmailing Hayley before it blows up in his face? How is Hayley going to survive with no real allies by her side? Do you think she and Josh will gain an ally? **

**Thank you for reading and please leave me reviews, guys! I will appreciate them!**


	16. Hunger Covers All

**Previously, Klaus had received a special visit from Caroline, resulting in Hayley watching her kiss him. After reassuring her that there was nothing going on between him and the blonde, Klaus and Hayley talked about the games and the blackmail made by Josh. Hayley expressed the meaning of their night in her heart before they parted ways. Camille has been kicked out of the group, as Klaus finds her as a distraction they don't need. At last, the tributes had been thrown in the arena for the games to begin.**

**In this chapter, Kieran and Effie have to rethink of their plan. Hayley fights for herself as she realizes the importance of staying alive in the games. After a disaster strikes at the Cornucopia, Hayley is forced by Josh's blackmail to take him everywhere she goes. The two battle for nourishment and water, as the Career Tributes create their group. Many attacks start as the night falls and Hayley and Josh are surprised to find someone wanting to join their team. Meanwhile, Klaus and Elijah share a moment as they talk about the one thing they had feared to discover along the years because of their father disapproved…love. Davina finds herself trapped and forced to make a decision where Kol is concerned. **

**District 12: Mentor Kieran**

**The First Night in the Arena**

I had thought about how hard this was going to be for her, but I never knew how hard. She was holding back tears when she went in that tube, prepared to be brought on the arena. People simply didn't know when to quit. I grabbed myself a drink and sat down on the couch as rain was pouring outside. I didn't know what I had planned, but it did help that Hayley had managed to receive a high score. Getting a 9 was not nothing at all, especially since the strength can be compared to Career Tributes, who have been practicing for a high score since they were children. Hayley had it in her, and as I watched the rain pour outside, I knew that she would be fine. She was the smartest girl I knew, and the bravest.

"I just wanted to let you know that I am really proud of you, Hayley. Do not let anyone get you down. You remember what I told you along the way. You are a smart girl, as stubborn as you are. With that 9, you will get all the help you need out there. And remember…when you hear that canon go off, it's just you. No one else matters but you, do you understand what I'm saying?" I asked her and I saw her nodding as she whispered, "Yes." There was a robot which could be heard, informing the tributes they had ten seconds left to get into their capsules. I sighed and rolled my eyes when that robot was pointing at the clock. They didn't even give these kids time to say goodbye. I didn't know about Josh, but for Hayley, I had started to care a lot more than I could imagine and I was not going to let her on her own out there. I was going to help her, in my own way. "Go ahead." I said to her and I pointed at the tube. Hayley nodded and went over there, the door closing and she faced me and Rona with fear in her eyes.

The door slammed open and I closed my eyes as I heard Effie's tone. "Here we go again and this time, there is nothing anyone can do to stop this." She scoffed and took a seat on the couch, as the rain continued to pour from outside. "What happened to you? You used to love the Capitol, the money they offered you, and you worshipped them in return." Effie scoffed and said, "You know I don't anymore, Kieran. Ever since they destroyed Katniss's life…" She stopped and I could hear her sniffling. "I know you cared about that girl." I said and I stepped closer to her and took a seat on the couch, looking at her. "You have no idea how much I cared for her." Effie snapped. "Then you can help me do something about it. You can help me protect Hayley from what is out there." "Kieran, they have no chance. You know that Josh and Hayley are as good as dead." I growled and looked away from her. "If you choose to believe that, then I have nothing more to say to you." I stood up and got ready to leave when I heard her say, "What do you want to do?" I smiled and turned back to face her.

"I want to start by putting a good word for her to all the famous people at the Capitol. I am sure that you want to help me with that. You are after all, the expert when it comes to these types of manipulations." Effie smirked. "Are you hoping that you can trick the Gamemakers into giving her this type of advantage out there?" "Yes." "What advantages are we talking about here, dear Kieran?" "They can protect her. If the public likes her and she becomes a hit as Katniss was, she can be protected by the Gamemakers as to not disappoint their viewers. The people want a good show and the Gamemakers make sure to offer that. If they kill off their favorite tribute, there will be a revolution." Effie closed her eyes and whispered, "Don't even say that word again." "Forgive me. But what do you say? Will you help me help Hayley?" "And what about Josh?" "We can help him too, if he is with her. I told them to stick together. They are a team." Effie sighed and shook her head. "It's really sweet of you to think about helping them like this but it is just not going to work." "How do you know that?" I asked her.

"Because doing this, you need time, you need wealth and you need really wealthy friends." "Friends you can provide me with." Effie shook her head and whispered, "I have done my best with that girl. I really tried, Kieran, so do not tell me I haven't, but I can't go through the same experience as I went through with Katniss when she was in the games. I can't go through that again." "If you help me, she will be protected. If you don't, there is a good chance that she will be caught by those Career Tributes and they will kill her." Effie scoffed and at that moment, Rona stepped into the picture and whispered, "They will not kill her. I am sure the Mikaelson fella will not allow that to happen." The girl really got my attention as I rose to my feet and looked at her. "What do you mean?" She bit her lip and said, "She told me about something that she did the night of the Masquerade Ball…something she hasn't told anyone but Josh." "What is it? What happened?" I asked, angered that no one would inform me of this.

"She slept with Niklaus Mikaelson." Rona finally said and I felt all the energy drain from my body. "She did what? She slept with the enemy?" I growled as Effie stood up with a shocked look on her face but she regained her composure as she said, "Maybe this is the break we have been searching for. If we want to protect Hayley, we can use her night with Klaus to her advantage. Niklaus Mikaelson's father is a very powerful and wealthy man. His family owns a lot and they are good friends with President Snow. I am sure that he would not like his son to be involved with someone from another district. We can blackmail him by telling him we will spill all about his son's involvement with Hayley so he can offer the girl protection." I shook my head and whispered, "Mikael will never accept that and he will skin us alive for blackmailing us with that." I turned towards Rona and asked, "Has anything else happened between them? Has Hayley told you anything else we might need to know?"

Rona fidgeted before saying, "She hasn't exactly told me. She more like showed me that she likes him a lot and he appears to have a thing for her too. That is why I think he will spare her life, because he fancies her. We shouldn't do anything and just let Hayley be. She knows what she is doing and she will be just fine. I can promise you that. We need to trust in her that she will not let her emotions get in the way and we can have faith that the Mikaelson boy will not harm her at all." I nodded but whispered, "What about the others? All the Mikaelson siblings are in that Career group. How do we know that his siblings won't make a move to try to kill her?" "He will stop them." Rona answered. "How can you be so sure?" "Because I know a lot about how men are and trust me, if Hayley has described Klaus to me correctly, I can assure you that he will be the one doing everything in his power to help her live as long as she can in these games." I sighed and whispered, "I hope you're right."

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The First Night in the Arena**

I groaned the moment I opened my eyes and felt my face touching the soft grass. There was a pain in my back, and it was dark outside. How did I end up this way? I rubbed my eyes a little, as my face was covered with mud. The canon went off at that moment and I looked up in the sky to see the tributes from Districts 4, 7, 8 and 10 were all dead. Eight people had died during the battle of those who went for the weapons in the Cornucopia. I realized that this number of deaths was better than the years before, when at least half the tributes died at the beginning. I suppose that the tributes have all learned their lessons. As I stood up, I noticed for the first time that Josh was lying on the ground, next to me.

There was nothing but a look of disgust on my face when I thought about the way he was blackmailing me through these games. I didn't deserve this and I knew that I should have told Kieran when I had the chance. Now, I had to live with it, without anyone knowing…but Klaus. I bit my lip as I looked around the darkness and realized that we could be in danger if we stayed here for long. The Career Tributes would already be on their quest to eliminate as many tributes as possible from the first day. Josh groaned and rolled over as I watched him. He stood up with a sword in his hand as he looked at me, angrily. "What the hell happened?" he asked me. "I don't know. We have been asleep here for a while. It's dark and this is an open space. We need to get out of here."

He grabbed my hand before I could move and I was looking at him, shocked. "Are you trying to get us killed?" I asked him in disbelief. "No, but I am the one who leads the way here." "Oh, excuse me, who is blackmailing who here? You said that you need my help to survive or you will reveal…what there is to be revealed." For a moment I bit my lip and wondered if it was safe to talk about it now. Were the cameras on us or on the other tributes? You had no way of knowing the truth but if the cameras were on us now and everyone was watching, Kieran would soon know that Josh betrayed me and was now blackmailing me with something. Josh smirked and whispered, "I could say it right now so the whole world can hear." "Why are you doing this to me? I would have helped you anyways. We were friends."

Josh groaned and whispered, "For God's sake, this isn't about you, Hayley!" "Then what is it about? Is it about Klaus and how you want to get back at him? What the hell is wrong with you? This isn't about the rivalry between you two. This is about surviving." "Funny how you still defend him even though he is the enemy of our district and when it comes to me, you show only distaste." "How can I not show any distaste towards you when you are blackmailing me?" I nearly yelled out and then covered my mouth as I realized that there could be people around, watching us, taking advantage of our dispute and attacking when they get the chance. I knew that we had to keep moving. This is exactly what Kieran told us to do. I rubbed my forehead, knowing that we would get nowhere fighting like this.

"Listen, the canon went off a couple of minutes ago, informing us that eight people died during the fight in the Cornucopia. That means that there are still eighteen of us out here, and six of them are the Career Tributes, ready to skin us alive if they catch us." I saw Josh wanting to say something but I held up my hand and whispered, "Like I said, we could have been true friends and if everything was okay between us, it would have been much easier for us to find a way to protect one another. I could have been the only person you could have counted on because believe it or not, Josh, I am not like the others. I don't want to make alliances, I want to make friends who really help each other and with the circumstances, you could have been that friend for me. But you turned out to be the betrayer here. I wouldn't have betrayed you this way. I swear it on my siblings' lives." Josh's mouth parted in shock at my words as I continued. "Like I said, we are eighteen and these games can go on for weeks until…" I couldn't finish this sentence at all. "We need to find food, water and shelter. Check the bags and see what we have with us."

I believed that I had done the right thing with Josh. I surprised him, by acting calmly towards him even when he was blackmailing me into revealing that I slept and lost my virginity to Klaus Mikaelson, the enemy of my district. He knew what would happen if people found out. I would be humiliated on television. I could lose sponsors for my benefit. My district would hate me…Jake and Lucy would think that I have given up on them. And Mikael Mikaelson…could ruin me in ways I could only imagine. I knew what that man was capable of doing. And I knew I should have stayed away from Klaus whenever I could…but I couldn't find the will to do it. I was fascinated by him. I liked him. I bit my lip and a memory flashed in my mind. It was the memory of the night we spent together. It was that one night when I felt cared-for and protected. How could this one man make me feel this way?

"Family is my interest." He told me, convincingly, still holding my chin. Our eyes connected for a strong moment before he pulled on my chin and his lips crashed into mine at once, starting to kiss me aggressively. I gasped in shock, at the very feel of a man's lips on my own. I had never had this before. The pleasure of having a man touching every single part of you. Klaus was kissing my mouth, moving down to my jaw, making me gasp so many times; as we tumbled on the floor, on the soft carpet and he was kissing my neck like it was all he wanted. Gasping and moaning, I felt his release my neck and moved down to my dress, taking it off and pushing it away from me, leaving me in just my bra and underwear as he was taking off his suit too. I had never felt this sort of pleasure before. The lust boiling inside of me was exciting and I loved it. I knew at that point that I wanted so much more with him. He rubbed his hands on my hips, as his lips moved back up on my neck.

One of my hands was now resting on his back and the other was in his ruffled hair, as my mouth parted for a moment, closing my eyes. After kissing me on the lips one more time, Klaus pulled back and I opened my eyes. I had no idea what he was looking at but after a moment, I think he realized…I had never done this before, and I was nervous as anyone would had they been in my position. He slowly released himself from the mask so I could see his face that night. Somehow that made me smile as he took off my mask as well. After that, Klaus started moving up my panties and pulling them down gently. He was looking at me in a way, as if asking me if he could. I slowly nodded my head as I closed my eyes and I could feel him getting hard, as he hovered above me and kissed my lips again, entering me with patience as the pleasure ran through me making the blood boil in my veins at how much I wanted and needed him.

"Hayley!" Josh snapped and I looked up at him. I realized that for that one moment, I had been daydreaming. Looking back at the backpack, I noticed that I was not lucky to grab a backpack with many useful things but I did get a bottle, some matches and there was a rope. "What did you get?" I asked Josh. He was still looking at me strangely as he looked through his own backpack and said, "The same as you." "How are they supposed to be helping us with these?" "Well I can start the fire…" "Are you insane? You want to start a fire now? In the middle of the night?" I snapped at him and he growled, "Well then how do you suppose that we get warm? Others have blankets, we don't!" "And if you create a fire, you will make it easy for others to find us and kill us. Forget it! I am not letting you do it!"

"Then what do we do, huh? You tell me. They didn't give us these matches so we could play with them." "They gave you the matches so you would think it would be okay to start fires but that just leads to blood being spilled and that is what they need for a good show. If you want to start a fire, fine by me, but I am not letting you drag me down to my death, alongside you. I am going to live to get back to Lucy and Jake and there is nothing stopping me. Not the Gamemakers, not the President…no one! Not even the games!" Josh scoffed and said, "Well, it sure is nice for you to be so optimistic. I wouldn't really be this pleased with myself if I were you." "And if I were you, I would shut up so I can find a way out of this." I snapped at him and re remained quiet for a moment, sighing and putting his hands in his pocket, waiting for the right moment to ask me questions about where we were going to go and what we were going to do. I sighed and realized what a mistake I have made by deciding to try and make friends and not exactly alliances. I made friends with Davina Claire and we didn't seem to be anywhere, helping me out. She wasn't…?" I gasped and covered my mouth when I thought about it but then remembered that she was from District 3. She was not dead. The girl needed to survive. Looking at Josh, I whispered, "We need to find good people who can help us survive."

Josh looked at me as though I had grown another head. "Are you serious? Now you think is the time to start making allies? What have you been doing for the past week? Cozying yourself up with…?" Before he could answer, he received a very good punch from me. He rubbed his jaw and looked at me in shock. "Man…what the hell is wrong with you?" he asked me and I growled at him. "I say that you should watch your mouth. We are being monitored." He smirked and said, "So you do admit that my blackmail actually frightened you, Hayley." "I find it pathetic. Not frightening." "But you don't want it to be revealed." "Of course not." "Then you better stop with the punches." "You better start remembering that if anything comes out of your mouth which shouldn't and something which can ruin my life, you can say goodbye at your dreams of returning home because I will kill you here myself." This was a real threat and I was not backing out from it.

Picking up the backpacks, I looked at the watch Rona had given me and gasped as I saw that it was two o'clock, in the night. People in Panem were probably sleeping at this time. They couldn't watch the games constantly. Some had work, and some had family time too. But I knew that the Gamemakers and President Snow would always be watching us. "We need to find a place to sleep now. We need our strength for the morning." I told Josh and started walking. He didn't say anything and walked after me. I realized that he was really not expecting a punch like that coming from me. "Are you alright?" I asked him with coldness in my voice which ne noticed. He just shook his head as we found a quiet and safe spot. We leaned against the trees and closed our eyes as I still had Klaus' image in my head. I was wondering where he was right now…what was he doing.

_Klaus pulled out an envelope and handed it to me. I gasped and covered my mouth with my hand. I could see Jake's signature and Lucy's on it. "I made sure that your brother and sister could write you back. I have not opened it, as you can see, it is sealed and you have every right to do it, as it is addressed to you." Tears welled up in my eyes as I looked up at him with a smile on my face which would not disappear. "You did this for me?" I whispered in shock, barely believing it. Klaus smiled this time…a genuine smile, as he kept his hands tied behind his back and nodded, slowly. He took my hand and brought it to his lips, kissing my palm and saying, "As this is our last night before the games…I only wish to see you well and to warn you…that we will be hunting down tributes in a pack." "Allies." I whispered and he nodded. "You are to stay away from the open areas and stick to high grounds. I don't want to see you. Have I made myself clear?" He made himself clear as he looked at me seriously. A few tears slid on my cheeks from happiness as I nodded and said, "Yes." _

_With another smile…this time, a more twisted one which I love, he whispered, "Get some rest for tomorrow, little wolf." He started walking away when every bone in my body wanted me to reach out to him and I did. Grabbing his arm, I spun him around and planted a kiss on his soft lips. This kiss surprised him, as it surprised me. I cupped his cheeks gently as he laid both of his hands on my back. We must have kissed like that for a couple of minutes, before he pulled away and sighed, caressing my face._

I smiled a little, knowing that even though he said that whatever had been happening between us didn't need to exist any longer, he was still caring for me. His eyes and the look he had through them gave him away. He didn't want to see me hurt. I missed the way he called me "little wolf". I knew I had often told him not to make me remind myself of my late father but…it was very comforting and I would have given anything to be in his arms at this moment and to have him calling me that, soothingly. I touched my lips as I remembered that kiss and realizing he was now such a huge part in my heart, I fell asleep.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The First Night in the Arena**

"Watch your step." Elijah mumbled as he kept on holding Katherine's hand. He was being caring and supportive of her, much like the noble brother I knew he always was. Katherine was carrying his child for God's sake. But it really made me wonder how it just happened and she has been holding it to herself for so long. I took a seat on the Cornucopia and watched Kol and Rebekah share the bread and water they found. There was also some ham stashed in a very lucky backpack. "Sandwiches to keep us going!" Rebekah exclaimed with that smile on her face, as she handed me one. "Hey, Nik, are you okay?" I sighed and nodded as she took a seat next to me.

"You have to eat something to keep up your strength." She whispered and handed me the sandwich, as I accepted it. Rebekah had always been there for me when I needed her, the one person to have my back, always. "When did you and Kol become so close?" I asked as I ate. She shrugged and whispered, "We haven't seen each other for a long time and I missed him. I know you missed him too, despite the rivalry between the two of you." I chuckled and Rebekah rolled her eyes at me. "Alright, fine! I get it that you will never end your rivalry with him but what about Elijah? You two seem to be getting close again." "There is nothing to say about me and Elijah." "Sure there is. You're brothers. He did have your back when you were young and Father was being mean to you."

"Rebekah I would prefer not to speak about Father when I know there could be cameras filming us." She scoffed and said, "Who cares? The whole of Panem is asleep by now. And the Gamemakers already know all there is to know about our family. We are the favorites, aren't we?" There was bitterness in her tone and I could see how much it still bothered her that we were being favored. "I still don't understand why you chose to come here after me." "I wanted to look out for you." "You could have kept yourself alive and safe for another year at least." I growled. "Hey! You should be grateful that you are not alone. We are family, all of us and we stick together until the end!" Rebekah gave me that lecture. At that moment, all I could play back in my head was the letter I received from my mother, telling me the truth…that Mikael was not my real father. I knew I couldn't live long without telling someone. I couldn't tell Rebekah. This could break her, and as for Elijah and Kol…I couldn't deny the fact that they would resent me for keeping this from them, or they could judge me and exclude me.

"HEY! WATCH IT!" Kol suddenly yelled out and picked up a sword as I saw a young fella approach from the distance, ready to shoot with an arrow. "DUCK!" Elijah yelled out and got away from Katherine, going over to help Kol, as Rebekah and I stood up, ready for the action. I recognized the guy from District 6, Jackson. He shot the arrow at Kol, aiming him right in the shoulder, as he growled with pain on the ground. I ran, took the sword from Kol and before Jackson could fire another arrow, I plunged the sword directly into his chest, seeing the life drain from his eyes, as he fell to the ground. Rebekah patted my back as she came forth and grabbed the body, to put it somewhere away from us. Kol was growling in pain on the ground as Elijah brought the medicine we immediately received from the sponsors. "Wow. That fast?" Rebekah asked in surprise as she watched Elijah take the arrow out of Kol's shoulder. "We are the favorites in this blasted game, Rebekah." I mumbled and walked back to the Cornucopia.

I could see that she was confused about my attitude but rolled her eyes and helped Katherine, as Elijah finished with Kol and our eyes met for a moment. I knew what was going to happen. Elijah didn't rest until he dug deep and he received the information he was looking for. He wanted to know what was bothering me. But how could I tell him? How could I tell him that our mother informed me not long ago about Mikael not being my real father? How could I tell Elijah that I was only his half-brother, that I was the bastard child of the family? How could I let the whole world know that Mother cheated on Father, because she was feeling lonely and Mikael was cruel? How could I let Mikael know…that the son he raised on his own…is not in fact his flesh and blood? I couldn't. "Tell me what is going on." Elijah whispered as he took a seat next to me. I scoffed. "Why the hell would you care?" "Because I know you, Niklaus. Is this about that girl? About Hayley?" Just hearing her name made my heart stop.

Of course I hadn't forgotten about her no matter how much I tried. Her soft and sweet lips against mine…her comforting kiss…it was the type of kiss that I had never received from anyone, not even Caroline. Looking at Elijah, I realized that I wouldn't get anywhere with him, so I let him believe that Hayley was the problem that haunted me most, and not the fear I had of Mikael. Elijah sighed and whispered, "You have to forget about this girl, Niklaus. You had your fun…" "This was no fun!" I snapped at him and found myself looking shocked at how I reacted. Elijah was looking at me just as shocked before he whispered, "You know…I am not going to deny any longer the feelings I held and still hold for Camille…" I chuckled and shook my head. "You believe this is about feelings." The laughter took him aback and he grabbed my shoulders, making me look at him. "Just because we have not seen each other for a very long time, that does not mean that I do not know you, brother. You have feelings for that girl." "Even if I did feel something for her… surely wouldn't compare us to you and Camille."

"How come?" I broke into a laughter, which made Kol, Katherine and Rebekah look at me in surprise as I said, "Because you and Camille…there could be nothing wrong if you find love in each other. I am surprised you have even forgiven me of how I kicked her out of this group. Hayley is the successor of Katniss Everdeen and you know how we feel about her people…" "So you have fallen into an impossible love story with this girl." "There is no love! I care for her. Love does not imply!" I told him. Elijah looked at me for a moment before asking, "Niklaus, have you ever been in love?" "I was in a relationship with Caroline for a while, wasn't I?" "I meant if you felt love towards a girl. I wouldn't say Caroline is an example of that." "You believe I didn't have feelings for her?" "No, because you have no idea what is like to be in love, Niklaus…but you could be experiencing it now without realizing." "Enough!" I snapped and Elijah opened his mouth to speak again, realizing he could be making a mistake and closed it. This was something I refused to think about. The possibility of me falling in love with that girl…the little wolf."

"Look what the cat dragged in!" Katherine exclaimed as he grabbed a hold of someone close to the forest. Elijah and I got ourselves off the Cornucopia to see Katherine holding a young and screaming girl. Davina Claire, the girl from District 3. She looked to be fifteen with her raven dark hair and anger flashing in her eyes as she tried to get loose of Katherine but failed. "Was she following that Jackson guy?" Rebekah asked as she inspected the girl. "I guess so. But he's dead…and it looks like she's going down with him." Katherine grabbed a knife and before she could slice her neck, Kol grabbed her hand and twisted it. Katherine screamed in pain as Elijah pushed him away from her. "What is wrong with you? She is pregnant! I told you no harm is to come to her!" Elijah yelled in Kol's face. Rebekah grabbed her girl's face to look at her closer before saying, "This is her, Kol, isn't it? The girl you fancied?" Kol growled in embarrassment as he looked away and I smirked.

"I propose we help our brother here…" I clapped my hands together as Rebekah was holding Davina tightly, not letting her escape. Kol looked at me warningly and whispered, "Don't you dare, Nik…" "Oh I am not going to kill this girl, if that is what you're worried about, brother. I was proposing to offer her a deal. She looks like a fast one. Her uncanny abilities could be of use to us. So she either joins our team, as we have room since Camille left…or…we kill her now." I could see Kol looking annoying at Davina, who was still struggling. He was trying to fight the way he showed his attraction towards this girl. "I thought sweet Elena was the love of your life, brother. What happened?" I was testing him and his eyes showed even more anger before I backed away with laughter and went over to the girl, asking, "What's it going to be? Joining us…joining Kol…or dying?" Davina looked away, knowing she had no escape from this, she whispered, "Fine. I am staying." She caved and a smirk appeared on my face as I saw Kol's face muscles relaxing at the hearing of Davina's words.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The First Night in the Arena**

I felt like I had been sleeping for a very long time, with my head against a tree, when I heard some rustling in a bush nearby. My eyes snapped open and I grabbed the sword from Josh, looking around and waiting for the right moment to attack. I thought that maybe this was my imagination taking over me. Looking over at Josh, I saw that he was waking up and looking at me, confused. "What the hell are you doing? I thought you said this was the safe zone." "Well, apparently, there could be others who know about the safe zone." I answered and continued to look through the darkness.

"Fine, if you want to be a freak, I am not stopping you." He murmured and closed his eyes again as I growled at him and said, "I am trying to protect both of us!" Before he could respond, a girl moved out from the bushes and she had two swords in her hands and a look of danger in her eyes as she approached me. "JOSH!" I yelled and he gasped, standing up and cowering next to me. We only had this sword as a weapon. We decided after all, not to battle for more at the Cornucopia when we had the chance. I knew this girl, from District 6, Monique. Before she could attack us, there was an arrow which was thrown in her, catching her off guard. I looked in shock as the arrow plunged into her back and she started losing blood, dropping to the ground. Josh and I looked up to see the girl I saw with Elijah Mikaelson, Camille O'Connell, the bookworm people liked to call, from District 2. She was Klaus' tribute partner.

Her eyes were friendly and she didn't look like she wanted to attack us. "What are you doing here? What do you want?" I finally asked and threatened her with my sword as she held the bows and arrows in her hands and a bag on her back. She dropped her weapons and held up her hands. "IS that the way you treat your rescuer, Hayley?" she asked me softly and I knew that I shouldn't be trusting her no matter what she was saying. "Kill her." Josh growled next to me. "No." I whispered and dropped my sword, realizing that this girl had saved our lives. We would have both been dead if she hadn't shown up. And she had just proven to the world that she was capable of fighting, as much as the rest. She wasn't all about the books. There was relief on Camille's face as Josh growled. "What? Why not?" "Because she saved our lives." "Or is it because she is Klaus' partner?" "You're testing me, Josh." I told him, angrily. I turned back to Camille and whispered, "I am not going to attack you because you just saved our lives."

"And I thank you for that, I suppose." Camille whispered and fidgeted with her hands. "What do you want from us? Why are you not with your group? The rest of the Careers?" I asked and crossed my hands over my chest. "I am not going to lie, Hayley. I was kicked out of that group before the games started. I have been on my own, after I was offered protection from Klaus and he took it away." I frowned and my mouth parted a little, at the mention of his name. "Why would he do that?" Camille shrugged. "I don't know. Elijah and I spoke and for some reason…Klaus didn't believe I was worthy to be in their group. My intellect still isn't really appreciated." "And you were hoping we would appreciate it?" I asked her. "Yes. I want us to create an alliance. We can protect each other." Josh stood up and faced her. "What can you possibly offer us that we need? If the Careers didn't want you, what makes you think that we would?" "Stop it!" I snapped at him, but Camille didn't look hurt by his remarks.

She bent down and took off her backpack, revealing the things she had in there. "It is pretty cold out at night and I know you can't make a fire for your own protection. I have blankets, food, water, matches, and a whole other junk, but junk which can be useful. I am willing to share it all with you guys." I smiled a little as I came over to inspect her stuff. "Why us? You could have chosen other tributes." I asked her and she gave me a comforting smile before whispering, "I kind of trust you, Hayley." "To be honest, I trust you too. You can stay with us." I told her and she smiled, standing up and giving us the blankets. "Where did you get these from?" I asked her. "While others were fighting in the Cornucopia, I kind of risked my life to grab a couple of goods from there, because I know how useful they can be. And I have some swords and bows too, so weapons are covered."

I nodded and whispered, "Let's just go to sleep. We have a long day ahead of us tomorrow." I gave Josh a look before we all snuggled under the blankets and closed our eyes. It was obvious that tomorrow, during the daylight, we would need to find better shelter.

**A/N: How did you like this chapter? I am glad to finally be writing about what happens during the games. Davina has joined the Careers and Camille has joined Hayley's team. What a twist of events, huh? How do you think that will turn out? How long do you think Josh will live through these games? Just asking because he has become a real pain in the ass.**

**Thanks for reading and please leave me reviews! **


	17. Death Of A Soldier

**The last chapter presented the tributes thrown in the Hunger Games, already forming alliances and enemies. After the Cornucopia attack from the start, the games were left with only eighteen tributes out of twenty-six. The Career tributes have killed their first man, along with capturing Davina Claire and asking her to join their group, for Kol's sake. After fighting about the blackmail, Hayley and Josh found themselves in danger after an attack from Monique, who was killed by Camille. Camille asked to be a part of the team, with Hayley accepting.**

**In this chapter, Davina argues with Kol of the reason why she was forced to become the Career Tributes' little helpers. Hayley and Cami discuss more about the reason she was kicked off the group of the Career Tributes, as Kol and Rebekah kill their time with more talking and more killing. Hayley tells Cami of a plan she had in mind to stop the Hunger Games as Josh goes missing. In District 2, Mikael gets a surprise visit from Esther and all hell breaks loose when secrets are spilled. Elijah receives information about Camille as Klaus makes an unexpected move and leaves his group. The night falls again and Hayley puts her life at risk, when she tries to make peace with the tributes.**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Second Day of the Games**

My eyes flashed open the moment I felt like something was wrong. Looking to my right, I could see Camille fast asleep under the blanket we were sharing and sighed. Why had I accepted for a Career Tribute to join my team? I knew what Kieran would have done to me at this moment, had he been here. But I knew deep down that I didn't really need Cami's help to stay alive longer in these games. I took her in because she was Klaus' partner, because she could inform me of more things which have been happening with him. I bit my lip, nervously and a bit angrily, knowing that I have feelings for this man I can't push out. I missed him so much. I needed to know that he was alright and safe. But how could I know that she was not sent here by the Career Tributes to trick me? Turning to my left, I startled as I noticed that the spot was empty and Josh was nowhere to be seen. I stood up at once and woke Camille in the process. She looked at me, confused. "What are you doing? Have you seen someone?" she asked me and I shook my head. "Josh is gone."

Hearing the news, Camille sat up too and looked around. "Did he go to get something to eat? You know there are many fruits which can be found here. Some are healthy and some are poisonous. He does know that, right?" I gaped at her for a moment and realized how right I was to get her as an ally. The rest of us could easily die out here without the proper knowledge Cami had. "I don't think he knows that, and I don't think that he went to get food. I think someone left the team here." I pointed out, a bit relieved that he was no longer on my back but concerned that he may still blab my secret to the world. It was my private life and it was a big mistake to tell Josh about it. "I don't think he would. Why would he? He can't survive there on his own. I think something may have happened to him. Do you think that some other tribute got to him?" "Why would they get to him and not us too? And we would have heard the canon if that were true, so I don't think so. His backpack and the rest of his stuff are gone too. He left." I stated my opinion to her.

Camille shook her head as she gazed at me and whispered, "What kind of partner was he like to you? Was it like Klaus and me? He promises to protect me one moment and the next one, he kicks me off the team?" I bit my lip, trying to refrain from speaking about Klaus. When I didn't say anything, Cami looked at me curiously and I gulped, saying, "I think we should move from here. Josh is obviously not dead but I doubt that he is coming back. Come on, let's go." I picked up the bag and started putting the rest of our stuff in it like the weapons we had and the blanket. Camille did the same thing and like I asked, we started moving to a better spot. "There are still sixteen of us." She pointed out and I nodded. Many more people had to die now. The question was, who would kill who?

Having a conversation like this one with her never jumped in mind, but I felt like my blood froze the moment she asked me, "There hasn't been anything going on between you and Klaus now, was it?" I looked at her angrily and sharply said, "Is that any of your business?" I bit my tongue and knew that I should have just denied it quietly. Going defensive on her pretty much proved that there was something going on. Cami looked a bit disturbed but she continued by saying, "No, but I saw you that day having lunch after the evaluation results. You did a good job, by the way." "And you were with the brother." I pointed out. "Pardon?" "Elijah Mikaelson, his brother? You were with him at lunch." "Yes, well…we were already partners at the time. We had things to discuss." I had to hand it to her that she responded quite intelligently, hiding anything else that might have been going on between the two of them. She kept on looking at me as we walked and I could see it from the corner of my eye.

"Fine, if you want to know, there was something going on between us, yes." I finally admitted to her and instead of looking shocked and surprised, she smiled warmly at me, which surprised me. Why were we having these girly types of conversations? We were supposed to be just battlefield allies, not friends who shared secrets. Was she looking to become friends with me? Why? "I knew there was. There were also suspicions of the way Klaus denied it during that interview with Caesar Flickerman. And then there was the way you reacted…I pick up on these things pretty quickly, Hayley and Elijah knows about it too." I looked away from her and whispered, "Whatever it was, it was in the past and nothing will happen again in the future." "I wouldn't say never, if I were you." "Why? Why do you keep pushing this out of me?" "I am not pushing. I am just curious, because I knew Klaus even before the games, you know." "How did you know him?" I asked her before I could stop myself.

She smiled and said, "At the University where we…trained…he was always that bad boy girls were always interested in. Not me, of course. I always disliked him and his siblings, and he always called me a Bookworm. I got used to it after a while, but didn't make it any easier to know that my parents were disappointed in me for not making friends with the Mikaelsons, the greatest and most powerful family of our district and probably of all districts. He trained hard for his father. I saw him, plenty of times, with his sister and she was comforting him. With Rebekah, it was the only time he showed his caring side." Cami explained to me. I smiled a little, as I felt my bag getting heavier by the minute. I wanted to listen to more and so Cami continued. "He met Caroline and things changed from then on. He became meaner than he already was, pushed by his father." I looked at her curiously and whispered, "Was he meaner because of her?" "Because of Caroline? No. He was just…really angry at himself for getting in a relationship with her." "So why did he do it?" The words escaped my mouth before I could stop them.

"Because his father told him that it was best he found a girl with class and Caroline was the only one good enough for Mr. Mikaelson." Camille explained to me and I rolled my eyes, as I remembered the other day when I saw him with Caroline, kissing. I felt my heart break at the moment and he couldn't even realize what he was doing to me. Of course he couldn't realize it. He didn't think that it would be possible for me to fall in love with someone like him. And me? I snorted to myself. He could never be interested in a woman like me. My conscious was giving me flash memories of the night of the Masquerade Ball, when he looked more than ever interested in me. I bit my lip and Cami frowned. "Are you sure you're okay?" "Yeah. I don't want to talk about Klaus anymore." I explained to her. "Okay. Then what do you want to talk about?" "Nothing. I just want us to act like the allies we are and focus on keeping one another alive, alright?" I said to her and she nodded after a moment. I was putting two and two together and I realized that maybe I was wrong about Camille. Maybe she really wasn't sent here to distract me for the Career Tributes. If she had been, she would have never talked to me about Klaus' personal life which she apparently knew a lot about.

"Do you agree with these games?" I suddenly asked her and she looked at me, surprised. "Why would you ask me something like that? You do know that we could be filmed right now, right?" Cami immediately asked me and looked around as I rolled my eyes. "How many cameras could they have around here and I am sure that they are most likely keeping the cameras on the Career group. They are the ones who do all the killing and people are looking forward to seeing that. I doubt that people are interested in a conversation between two girls." "But if they are watching and we talk…" "What more can they do to you? You're already in the games, Cami, and you could die any second. What is the worst that can happen to you?" Camille tried to analyze my reason and I knew that she was thinking I was right. "The games?" she whispered and I nodded. I knew there was something secretive about her.

"Well, they like to torture families and kill people who have parents who would suffer, districts who would suffer. What can I say about that?" "So you don't agree with what is happening?" "Hayley, it is not my place to talk about this. I am doing what I have to do to survive. That is why I have been chosen and I am here. I won't let myself distracted by anything else." "Not even Elijah?" I asked her before I could stop myself and I could see her eyes widening. I smiled and shook my head at her. "It's only fair since you asked me about Klaus." "Hayley, we are not supposed to be talking about this." "Yet, you are the one who started talking about the Mikaelsons. Give me a break, Cami." Before she could go any further, Cami stopped and looked at me frightened. "There is someone watching us. I can feel it." I pulled out my sword and Cami took the bow and arrows she had, aiming for the place where she heard the noise. At once, a girl with wavy and red hair waked towards us and I could recognize her as the girl from District 9, Genevieve. Cami aimed at her…but I didn't do anything.

I placed down my sword and Cami was looking at me shocked. "What are you doing?" she asked me but my eyes locked with Genevieve's and I said, "You don't have to do this." Cami was still looking at me in shock and then diverting her attention to Genevieve, who was holding the same sword in her hand. "And why the hell not?!" she snarled, surprised by my choice of words. I had no idea what had gotten into me. It was as if at that moment, a plan popped into my head. It wasn't supposed to be like this. I could change this all thing. I continued looking at this Genevieve as said, "We don't have to kill each other for their pleasure and fun. We don't have to take each other's lives for this stupid game. Let's unite and protect each other." It was as if someone else had spoken the words for me. Genevieve was looking at me as if I were crazy and before I could say anything else, she yelled and started running towards me with the sword.

My sword slashed her head at once and Cami launched her arrow but missed the girl's body. I gasped as I realized that I had killed my first tribute. The canon went off, declaring one more tribute dead. Fifteen out of twenty-six were left, after one day in the games. I suddenly became angry and grabbed the corpse by her hair and growled at her. "You could have saved yourself, by not attacking, you idiot." I threw the corpse back to the ground and turned to Camille, who was looking at me as though I had lost my mind. "What is wrong with you?" she asked me, completely shocked with what was happening. I continued looking at her, just as shocked about what happened and I slid to the ground, covering my head with my hands. With Genevieve, it didn't work but what if the other tributes thought the same as me? What if they didn't want to do this? Counting out Districts 1 and 2, I was sure there were many people alive, still wanting peace and to return home. I could do this. I could change the course of these games on my own. "Hayley, why did you do that? What were you thinking?" Cami asked me, surprised.

"We can change everything if we try, Camille. We can convince the other tributes not to fight, and create a group, to fight these games together." "We can make allies, Hayley…" "And then what? In the end, only one stands on his or her feet. His or her allies will be killed. Why does only one have to survive? Why don't we all survive? What can they do to us? They can't kill us themselves." Hayley pointed out and Cami shook her head. "I don't know what to tell you." "Tell me that I am right and I can prove to you that I have reason. We can convince the other tributes to join us so we can all stop fighting each other." "The Career Tributes think differently, Hayley." "Screw them." I whispered and closed my eyes for a moment, trying hard not to think about that muscular and twisted guy with whom I enjoyed being around. "You didn't seem to have convinced Genevieve." "And she died because she didn't listen. Others will listen." "Hayley, we are living in a world where everyone wants to be number one."

"I think it's time people understood that their number one goal in these games is not to win but to remain alive." Cami scratched her head. "That is kind of the same thing." "No, it is not and I can show you that many other tributes have been put in these games against their will like Davina Claire from District 3. Kaleb Maccabee, Genevieve's partner is also a good guy. There are many people we can trust because they were brought here against their will and many will want revenge." I tried explaining to her. "Look, I am hungry. You stay here with our supplies. If something happens, just yell out and I'll be back in a flash. I am going to go and find some food." I scoffed when I realized that she didn't believe in my plan, but I couldn't blame her this way. Who would? It was completely unrealistic, but that didn't mean that it wasn't possible. "Okay." I said to her as my stomach started rumbling.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Second day of the Games**

"Come on, put your back into it, Kol!" Someone exclaimed and I opened my eyes to see Rebekah and Kol having a man tied to a tree. Rebekah was trying to teach Kol how to properly shoot the guy straight in the heart with an arrow. As Kol continued missing, I could hear Davina's yells. "Don't! Please, don't kill him!" I was frankly surprised by the courage of this girl. So young and yet, she was very brave. Katherine was holding her still but in a matter of seconds, she escaped and grabbed Kol by his shoulders. "He is a good man, don't kill him please." The guy's name was Kaleb, from District 9 and he was one of the best fighters I knew during the training sessions at the Capitol. Rebekah pried Davina off Kol in seconds.

"What is the matter with you? Do you want to get yourself killed too? He is the enemy." Rebekah told her and Davina snapped back, "He is not the enemy. He is a good man and he shouldn't die because he was thrown in here against his own will. You guys have been training your whole life for this. He learned everything he knows in his four days in his training center." Kol's eyes widened as he realized with how much admiration Davina viewed Kaleb and growled as he set aside his bow and arrow. Rebekah looked at him in shock and asked, "What the bloody hell are you doing? You're supposed to finish him off. There are fifteen of us left. We need to make this job quicker." I noticed Kol flinching as he said, "Why don't we give the guy a chance to prove his talents? If he joins us, the better." There was a sign of relief on Davina's face, as I got up from the Cornucopia and headed over to them as I noticed Elijah feeding Katherine. "What the hell are you doing so early in the morning?" I asked and grabbed Kol's bow and arrows. Kol rolled his eyes as he said, "Davina here doesn't want us to kill the lad. Apparently, he is good at what he does." I smirked and whispered, "Then we shall give him the chance to prove himself."

On cue, Rebekah went over and untied a furious Kaleb from the tree, as he landed to the ground. He had a wound in his ribcage and I demanded at once, "Who has done that to you?" Kaleb looked at me angrily before he spat, "My partner. She wanted to finish me off, and go on her own. Didn't do her any good. She's dead." Elijah and I looked at one another for a moment before I whispered, "He could be useful to us." Kaleb laughed and said, "I would rather die than to join you." His eyes locked with Davina's and I could see Kol getting uncomfortable because of it. I growled, anticipating a weakness forming for my brother. I knew Kol fancied Davina, but I never believed her to be a threat as Camille had been to Elijah. "Perhaps they should both go." I suggested to Elijah and looked angrily at Davina. "No, we need them." Rebekah argued and shook her head. "Kill them, Elijah." I turned to look at him. I knew that my brother would never in fact kill someone, unless that someone attacked him.

He saw the desperate look into Davina's eyes and he softened, making me growl. "They are to remain with us and the young fellow over there needs to understand that the only way he can be safe and protected is if he is with us." Katherine crossed her hands over her chest and inspected Kaleb, saying, "He is a handsome fellow, so I guess he will do." She smirked, making Rebekah roll her eyes at her. I pointed a finger at Elijah saying, "You know of Kol's weaknesses. I will not have Davina in this group…" "She is no weakness, Niklaus!" Elijah snapped at me and I could see the hurt in his eyes, from the time I excluded Cami from the group. "The blonde can handle herself. No need to worry." Elijah grabbed my hand before I could leave and whispered, "If anything happens to that girl, I will know it to be your fault." I laughed and shook my head saying, "What did you expect, brother? There is only one winner in these bloody games. Only one. What's the difference if she dies early or later on?" Before he could respond, there was a small noise which could be heard and a small box of supplies landed next to us with a parachute.

"Sponsors!" Rebekah exclaimed and went over to grab the box and look inside. There were six syringes. "What are these?" she asked and looked over at us as Elijah approached and took the note that came with it, reading it out loud. _"My dearest tributes, it has come to my attention that your father, Mikael Mikaelson from District 2 has made a very important amount of donations these past couple of days to the Capitol. Most of them include weapons. This act of kindness and generosity cannot be overlooked by me. Therefore, I have sent to you the ultimate weapon against all the other tributes in the arena. You shall all survive, the sons and daughter of Mikael, as of course, as I understand it, his future nephew. You shall take these syringes and plunge them inside of your hearts. You shall be unstoppable and undefeatable. Unable to die from any sort of weapons or poisons on that arena. Long may you live, my dears. President Snow." _Katherine gasped and covered her mouth with happiness.

"Well, then give me one right now!" Kol exclaimed excitedly as he went over to the box and took a syringe. Before he could plunge it inside of his heart, Elijah grabbed his hand and stopped him, telling him angrily, "You shall not." "And why not? It's President Snow who wants to save us from a possible death so why can't we use this advantage?" "Because we cannot be sure…" "Oh for God's sake, Elijah! Why would he be trying to trick us? Let me have that!" Katherine exclaimed and tried to reach for the syringe from Kol but failed. Elijah grabbed it and inspected it carefully before plunging it into his own heart. I looked at him, shocked. "I need to make sure." He whispered and I knew he wouldn't let Katherine go through with it, for the sake of the child. "Draw a sword through me, Rebekah." Elijah commanded and she did as she was asked. I could see Elijah felt no pain and his wound cleaned and healed as soon as Rebekah pulled out the sword. "What is this stuff?" she asked, surprised.

Elijah turned to Katherine and whispered, "You shall not take this. It is most likely toxic and it could harm the child growing inside of you one way or another." Katherine kept her hands on her hips with a disappointed look on her face as she asked, "Then who should take it?" Kol smirked as he took another syringe from the box and handed it over to Davina with a small smile on his face. "Maybe little D would." "Do not call me that." Davina whispered to him before taking the syringe from his hand and plunging it inside of her heart with no fear. I looked towards the box left on the ground and leaned over it, inspecting the syringes left over. The only thing I could think about was her. The "little wolf". Parting my lips, I took a syringe and stashed it in my jacket before anyone could see me. Pretending I was lost in thought, I saw Rebekah take the box and hand each of us the syringes which were left. We each plunged it inside of our hearts as Katherine, Davina and Kaleb watched us.

"What is it, Niklaus?" Elijah asked me the moment he saw me lost in my own thoughts. "I need to…feed." I told him and started packing my bag, putting a blanket and some weapons, knowing the syringe was in my jacket. Elijah and Rebekah had their hands crossed over their chests as they watched me. "Where are you really going, Nik?" she asked me and I pushed past her. "I need to get some food. Do not question me, sister." "Why have you packed your bag, then?" "Because may need the weapons to get the food I need." "And the blanket?" "Making it easier to carry." Rebekah opened her mouth to ask more questions but I knew that I was pretty convincing. "How long will it take for you to…regain yourself, brother?" Elijah asked me. "A couple of hours. I'll be back. If there are any changes, come look for me." I told them to sound even more convincingly. I made my way through the forest, knowing exactly where I was going to go. I didn't see her face when the canon went off. That means she did it, she survived, the little wolf survived, and I had to find her…see her, whatever it took.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**Second Day of the Games**

"Do you believe that he is going after food?" Rebekah snorted as she took a seat on the grass and I sat along with her. "I don't know, sister but one thing is for sure. Something has got our brother preoccupied lately. His mind is always somewhere else." She looked at me and whispered, "Do you think that this is about her?" "About who?" "That girl from 12, Hayley Marshall. You saw the way he was looking at her before, Elijah. He was one hundred percent smitten, unlike with Caroline." "I do not believe that he would neglect his family for that girl. Niklaus cares profoundly for any family member."

"So, he was caring and protecting you when he excluded Cami from the team, huh?" Rebekah asked me and I smiled a little, knowing that she was trying to rise a certain confession out of me. "If you are asking about her, you should know that your suspicions are correct. I did have feelings for this woman, and I probably have feelings for her still…despite Niklaus deciding to kick her off of our team." Rebekah looked towards me and whispered, "Why don't you go and find her? Maybe you can bring her back to us? She is still fine, isn't she? She is a survivor…you can reach her." "It is too late for that, Rebekah. I have a job to take care of right here and that is to look after my family, and my child." I could see her giving Katerina a stare and I was wondering why. "She is hiding something." Rebekah whispered, but I chose not to take her seriously. Davina was healing Kaleb's injuries as Kol was watching them furiously.

"Hey!" Katerina exclaimed and she was pointing to a young fella running towards us with a backpack on his back and no weapons in his hands. "Odd." I whispered and started going towards him with Rebekah straight behind me. "Don't shoot!" the boy called out and held his hands up in the air. I eyed him darkly and whispered, "And could you offer us a possible motive not to?" "Yes." "And that would be…" "Because I know the location of Hayley Marshall from 12 and Camille O'Connell from 2. They are two women you would want to get rid of. I can tell you where they are, in exchange for your protection." I looked over at Rebekah who had a smirk playing on her face. I took a deep breath and whispered, "What makes you think that we would like to protect a traitor?" "Because I know the location of the woman who is a threat to you…and has been screwing around with your brother."

Rebekah's eyes turned into little slits and I could see her march forward and grab this boy, Josh's neck, saying angrily, "You would dare accuse our brother of turning his back on the family he holds dear in his heart from your partner in crime?" "She…is…not…partner." Josh managed to say, finding it difficult to breathe from the force my sister had. Davina and Kaleb were looking scared at us as I sighed and whispered, "Perhaps you should let him on his way, sister." "No. He does not deserve to live. A traitor cannot be trusted around us, Elijah, and he more than everyone else deserves to die for this treason, no matter who he is betraying." Turning around, I closed my eyes as I could hear Josh's cries out for help as Rebekah twisted his neck, and he landed on the ground with a thud. The canon went off, signaling another tribute dead. Rebekah sighed and looked towards me. "Fourteen left of us." "Ugh, what do we do with this body? It's going to rot." Kol snorted as he looked down and Davina whimpered as she couldn't look at the corpse of another.

"Just place it somewhere in the Cornucopia." I informed him, calmly. "No way, man! That's where I'm sleeping! This is rotten in an hour and it's going to continue to stink like hell." Kol complained but I shook my head. "We shall not be resting here any longer." Rebekah frowned at me. "Well, what is wrong with this place? Elijah, we are trying to survive here and this place can offer us the nourishment and weapons we might need to get these bloody games over and done with." "As you recall, Rebekah, we have been injected with a certain amount of toxins which will prevent us from dying." Katerina raised her hand. "Except me." "That is because as long as you are carrying my child, there shall be no danger that is to come to your body." Katherine snorted and said, "It's nice of you to treat me as your incubator, Elijah."

"Enough!" Rebekah snapped at both of us when I wanted to protest. I could see the hurt in that woman's eyes, hurt I didn't want to see. I had loved Katerina so much once, but she had to easily helped me forget about her, and the woman she was once. I started packing the bags as Davina faced me. "What about Kaleb and me? What is going to happen to us? Are we going to continue to be your little slaves?" Our eyes met for a moment before I whispered, "You are not our slaves, Davina. You are our allies and you shall be treated as such. You must follow us." Rebekah packed up the blankets and took as many weapons from the Cornucopia, she could carry, as Kol dumped the body of Kaleb in the place needed. "We must leave now." I informed them.

**District 2: Mikael Mikaelson**

**Second Day in the Games**

All the energy had been drawn from my body the moment I saw her at the door…in front of my house! I finished my last drink of scotch and moved to the door, contemplating for a moment on what there was to come. The moment I opened it, I could see her perfectly shaped face, after all these years. "Hello, Mikael." Esther whispered to me and I backed away from the door, letting her in without saying a word. Who did she think she was to waltz into my life this way? I closed the door quietly, cursing myself for letting this woman back into my life, after she was the one who walked out on me and took away two of my children. "What the bloody hell do you want from me?" I managed to ask her at last.

She looked at me and said, "I know what you did today…for our children and I just wanted to thank you for making that donation to the Capitol. It helped us…and…I get to see all of them when they finish." Tears were streaming down her cheeks and I could barely look at her. Anger was boiling inside of me. I wanted to lash out at this woman, for showing up unannounced to talk about our children after spending years away from me without saying a word. I wanted to see her suffer, but in my own way, I simply couldn't. Putting down the bottle of wine I had out, I turned on the television to hear President Snow's speech on my donation. Of course it was the smartest move I could make to see my sons and my daughter out of these safely. I wanted them all back…and I couldn't care less what I had to do to get what I want.

"Is there something else?" I asked when I saw that she continued to stay there, looking at me. She sighed before saying, "You haven't changed a bit. Still the same furious man I left all those years ago. I thought that when I came back here, we would be able to talk like normal adults for once. Just because we are not together anymore…we still have four children." "Two of which you don't allow me to see!" I spat at her. Esther opened her mouth and said quietly, "You agreed to this arrangement. I had two children and you had two." I looked at her angrily and sat up from the couch, facing her. "You are the most selfish and ungrateful woman I have ever met in my entire life! I have given you everything when I married you and you had the nerve to leave me after all those years! You had nothing when I took you as my wife. You were a simple worker. I offered you all the riches I had. I gave you a home and children that are fighting battles like champions." "I never had children, Mikael. You took them away from us when you signed them up in that school. All their lives, they know nothing but to fight in these games. When they finish, what will they have? Don't you understand that you have broken them?"

"I MADE MY CHILDREN STRONG! STRONGER THAN YOU COULD EVER HOPE!" I raised my voice at her and stepped over menacingly as she glared at me with hatred. "I WANTED TO SPEND TIME WITH THEM! I WANTED YOU TO LOVE ME!" was what she screamed at me and wiped away her tears. My mouth parted when I saw more tears streaming down uncontrollably. This was the moment I knew I wanted her out of my house before she said anything else…before she would make me look past what hatred there had been between us, and confess… I growled and turned away from her. Esther looked into her purse for a paper towel and looked at me confused. "What happened to you? I knew what kind of man you were the second I met you, but I cared for you anyways. You don't know that. You thought that I was accepting your hand in marriage for your money? I loved you, Mikael. I did…because you were not the same man that you are right now. Once I lost our first baby…Finn…you changed. That moment traumatized you for the rest of your life and you could never view our children with love again." "You believe that I have not done this for love?" I asked her in a whisper.

"I have been with another man." She whispered and I thought that I didn't hear correctly. Turning around, I looked at her in horror. "We are no longer married so I suppose I should just tell you the truth." I glared at her, with no end, not believing for one moment that she had the nerve to cheat on me. "You were different and you were cruel after Finn's death. I thought that I could look past it and help you move on. I was just as broken as you were. But no. You were so completely stuck in the past that you just couldn't let it go, could you? You pushed me away when I needed comfort and you raped me that night when you came home drunk. I could no longer bear it and I fell into the arms of Ansel." My heart stopped. Ansel had been my business partner once…before his untimely death. How could that bastard do this to me? "We spent one night together…and that was enough." She admitted and more tears streamed down.

Barely being able to move, I took in a deep breath and closed my eyes. "You were married to me…and you fell into the arms of another man." I tried to comprehend. "Yes. It was a few months after Elijah's birth." She explained to me and I closed my eyes. "You were the one who changed after Elijah's birth. I wanted our marriage to continue…but you were hiding something from me. I could feel it in my bones and now, after all these years, I finally learn the truth." She looked away from me and my eyes darkened. "Is there anything else you wish to tell me?" I asked her. She looked back into my eyes and I felt at once that more was coming. She opened her mouth, but shook her head at the last minute. I wanted to push her. I wanted her to say everything. But I didn't believe I could bare more of this. "Get out, then." I whispered and she didn't need to be told twice. The moment I closed the door, I picked up the nearest chair and threw it to the wall in anger.

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Second Day of the Games**

I looked up as the canon went off. Biting my lip, I could barely believe it when I saw Josh's face in the sky. There was a tear which streamed down my cheek, and I realized that despite everything that had happened between us, I had cared for him at some point and he was blackmailing me because he was afraid. He hardly trusted anyone. Why would he trust me? The sun was setting and I knew the ending of the second day was approaching. The piece of bread I had found in my backpack and the water I had picked up from the stream did not help me and the hunger and thirst remained.

Feeling my head spin, I lay down and closed my eyes, leaning by head against a tree trunk. Camille had not come back and I was getting worried that something must have happened to her too. Then again, if it had…the canon would have gone off to declare her death as well. "Fourteen." I whispered. "Twelve dead in two days." I could barely believe it. I wondered what I would do alone here without any allies to back me up. What would I do to convince some tributes that in order to survive, we needed to stick together…and all of us should fight the Capitol and their idiotic games? Through the darkness and the silence, the sound of a branch snapping opened my eyes at once and I could feel some tears brimming, as I realized this could be another one of those moments. How could I convince this tribute to let it go? As I looked up, I could see him, Monique's male partner from District 6, approaching me as I steading myself, on my feet. What could I say? He already saw my weakness. He saw my fear. "Please." I managed to whisper. I had all the weapons I needed with me…but I had no strength to pick one up.

Before this boy could launch himself on me, there was a growl of pain and I whimper, as I opened my eyes with fright and looked down to see the boy covered in blood, a sword directed into his heart, leading him to his death. The canon went off, indicating another death. Thirteen people left in the competition. "What…?" I whispered, looking around through the darkness, not understanding who saved my life. I was afraid that whoever had saved me…would also kill me. But I was to show no fear this time. "Who is out there? Show yourself!" I ordered and tried not to whimper. At once, someone grabbed me from behind, making me yell out. He covered my mouth with his hand and shushed me. My heart was pumping blood faster than ever before, as the man turned me around to face him. Warmness shot through me at once as I recognized his beautiful masculine features. His lips…the lips I had kissed. "Klaus." I breathed.

**A/N: Klaus and Hayley finally meet in the games. What do you think will happen? Will he give her the syringe? Will she believe him? Where do you think they will go from here? And what do you think happened to Camille?**

**Thank you for reading and please leave me reviews!**


	18. Follow The Heart

**In the last chapter, we have been presented with the death of more tributes, Josh being among them. Hayley and Camille put their alliance to the test, as Kaleb joined Davina into an alliance with the Career Tributes. Elijah learned information about Camille and Hayley from Josh, as he questioned Klaus' feelings for the girl from 12. Esther revealed her affair to Mikael, leaving him to put the pieces of the puzzle together. At last, Klaus and Hayley finally met in the arena. **

**This chapter, Klaus and Hayley discuss the terms of their new alliance, as Elijah and Rebekah lead the group to find their brother. Elijah confronts Katherine about her and her sisters' jobs for the Capitol. Mikael gets a visit from Caroline, as the girl shows him new evidence of what he feared. Camille bumps into Elijah and Katherine, getting information about the syringes. Hayley shares with Klaus her new plan to get the tributes to stop fighting one another in search for peace, as he shares with her a different secret, eating him up inside. Mikael visits Esther with a purpose to know the truth about their marriage. Kieran sends provisions, shocking Klaus and Hayley with news from the Districts.**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The Night Of Pure Fear**

I was standing there, in the dark, looking at him. I could feel him. It was him…although it felt so unreal, and that was the reason why fear plunged inside of me. What was he doing here? He killed that guy from District 6 because he was in his way. What's to say that he won't go for me? I bit my lip as he continued to stand there, and then, after what seemed like forever, he dropped his sword and came closer to me. The fact that he dropped his sword, determined he wanted me to trust that he wouldn't harm me. My hair was let loose and I could feel his fingers touching it softly. "What are you doing here?" he asked me in a whisper, making my heart jump inside of my chest. His fingers were still in my hair and I could feel him breathing hard. I leaned over and touched his chest, not saying a word when he whispered, "Not here."

He grabbed my hand and he was taking me somewhere. I didn't know what to think. I abandoned all of my stuff and I haven't heard from Camille. We made a deal, and I was supposed to stay there, but I couldn't. I was going wherever Klaus was leading me to. At least if she came back to our spot, she would have everything left there for her, the leftover food and weapons. But why did I trust Klaus to lead me to safety? And then it hit me of how much I missed him, and the way I had been thinking about him for the past few days since I ended up in the arena. I hadn't seen him since the moment…the moment I saw him kissing his former or current girlfriend. I hadn't seen him since I snapped at him for treating me like scum, after I lost my dearest treasures to him at the Masquerade Ball.

The darkness continued to fill my mind as I had no knowledge of what was going to happen to me. Klaus was not saying anything as we entered the last place I thought we would. It was a cave. "This way." He whispered and nearly pushed me inside. It was long and dark, but as I turned around to him, I could see him covering the entrance with plenty of dirt. "They don't have cameras here, and I hate being filmed while I sleep." Klaus finally told me and I couldn't help but smile, as I realized he wanted us to be alone. He wanted us to have our own special moment here. He turned back to me and I crossed my hands over my chest. "You saved me from that guy. Why?" "Would you have been able to kill him?" he asked me and I was not expecting a question like that. "I don't know. You could have given me a chance to see if yes, or no." Klaus smirked and looked away, shaking his head. "I don't even receive a thank you for that? Like you said, I saved you." "And you didn't answer my question. Why did you save me?" He groaned and I could see that I was pushing some very delicate buttons. "You want me to answer that?" "Yes, please." "I saved you because you needed saving."

That answer stung me and I looked at him, furious. "I did not need any saving. I have killed someone already in the games." "One man? Is that all?" I should have known that he would show off with his aptitudes to kill more people than I could imagine. He smiled at me and replied, "You don't need to worry. I was surprised you killed at all. You said…" "I said that I would only kill if necessary." "I didn't see you picking up a sword to take care of that lackey, out there." "That was different." I argued and he argued right back. "How so? Were you afraid? Did he have the upper hand with something?" "I was trying to reason with him, but I guess you couldn't understand what that means." He looked as if he got stung. "You were trying to reason with him? Where do you think you are here, little wolf?"

There was that nickname again and I started breathing heavily as I heard it. He came closer to me and the heat of his body was radiating. I looked into his eyes and I could see some sort of amusement on his face, but also concern. I shook my head and whispered, "What would be the point in telling you? You wouldn't understand." "Hayley, in this condition, you are going to end up dead." "How?" "You're trying to do the right thing here, you have always been on the path of justice, defying the Gamemakers and mocking President Snow's speech, and that is exactly what is going to push them to make sure that you don't survive. They can do whatever they want with this arena, change it to their pleasing. You just have to piss them off…and you won't see the light of another day." I knew that he was right, but I was too proud to admit that. "What can they do to me? I already pissed them off and I am alive. Why am I alive?"

"You are alive because you got plenty of support from the people at the Capitol." "Why? Because I received the fame from Katniss?" "Most probably. You use that advantage and you didn't do that bad on your Aptitude Test." "You helped me with that." I reminded him and he nodded, smiling at me again. Sighing, he looked around and told me, "It is getting late and if you are going to be strong for tomorrow, you need to get some sleep." "Why did you leave your brothers and sister? Why were you out there?" "Believe it or not, Hayley, I was looking for you." I shivered, as I watched him search through his bag and pull out bread, cheese and ham. My mouth watered and he could see that. Taking out one of his knives, he cut into the bread and made me a ham and cheese sandwich. Our hands touched as he handed it to be and I bit into it fast, hungrily.

Klaus looked disappointed as he watched me. "I thought I told you to take care of yourself…and what were you doing out there and not in the spots I told you to be?" he asked me and I looked at him. "Have you searched for me through those spots?" He gulped and replied, "No. I had a feeling that you would disobey me, especially after our last encounter before the games. You wished me and my family luck. I forgot to offer you my thanks." He said, bitterly. "You deserved it." I snapped as I finished my sandwich. "What have I done to make you hate me? I explained to you the situation with Caroline, little wolf. She was nothing serious, although she believed we were exclusive." "I don't care about that." "Then what is bloody hell's name is your problem?" We continued to watch one another carefully before I shook my head and said, "Nothing…I don't have a problem." "Then talk to me. Why were you not in the safe spot? Have you done that on purpose to piss me off, love?"

"I don't hold silly grudges on anyone, when my life is concerned. If you must know, Josh and I were there, with Camille and we got attacked by the girl from 9, Genevieve. I killed her. That was when Camille decided we needed to move away from there. Too many people knew where the weak link would be hiding." "Weak link? Wait a minute. Camille? She has been with you?" "Yes. Right after you wrongfully kicked her out of the group; she found me and saved me from another tribute who tried to kill me and Josh." Klaus nodded and whispered, "So you have become allies." "We were before she disappeared to look for food and didn't come back. I was waiting for her when you showed up." "Don't you worry, love. Camille is not the type to turn her back on her teammates." "It's good to know, because knowing that you are a perfect example of people who do turn their backs on their teammates…I am going back." As I turned to leave, he grabbed my hand and spun me around.

"Stay." He was determined to make sure I didn't leave and the look in his eyes said it all. "Why should I stay with you?" I asked him, inching closer to his face, making him part his lips. "Because I am the one person who is looking out for you. I want to protect you. I will protect you." When I didn't say anything, he held my chin and made me look at him in the eyes as he said to me, "Good enough reason?" He looked pleased the moment I nodded. "Good. Then let us sleep." He pulled out the blankets he had and laid them on the ground. I watched him as he lay there, with his sword in his hand. I knew why he was doing that. He wanted to keep himself protected in case someone found out about this cave…and he wanted to protect me. "Come." He whispered and patted the spot next to him. I took a seat right there, and lay my head on the warm blanket, as he covered us with another. His body was warm next to mine, and at that moment, I turned my body to face him, as his eyes were wide open, looking at me.

Taking a deep breath and unsure of myself, I leaned forward and kissed him gently, making his breathing hitch in surprise. But only a second later, he cupped my cheek and responded to the kiss softly, making me smile. After a couple more seconds, Klaus pulled away, shaking his head and making me curious. "What's wrong?" I whispered and he whispered, "I told you to stop doing that, Hayley." "You have never told me that." "Yes, I have. Please, little wolf…you are making a mistake." "Why?" I asked him. "You know why. Enough is enough, love. No more, please." "But what is wrong with this? Klaus, you know that there is something more…" "There is nothing more, little wolf." "And you're doing it again. You're being sweet to me without realizing it. You weren't like that before. You were cruel to me, like you were to others. But that has changed because you know it deep inside your heart that we…" "Hayley, enough!" he snapped at me. With that, he turned his back to me, and my eyes watered, feeling safe…but completely alone.

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**Third Day in the Games**

The moment the sun rose above our heads, I looked over to see Katherine sleeping peacefully next to me. She opened her eyes and I could see her flinch the moment I touched her stomach. She pulled the blanket off of her and stood up, as I stood along with her. "Are you alright? Are you hungry?" I asked her and she shook her head. "I am still tired." "Let me help you…" I reached out to touch her but she pushed me away again. "Have I done something to upset you?" I asked her, clearly confused with the way she was reacting towards me. Giving me one last look of contempt, she stood up and growled. "You just couldn't wait to get on your white horse and find Camille the moment you heard about her."

I stood up with her and tried to place my hand on her shoulder but she shrugged it off. "Is that what is really bothering you? Katerina…" "Don't you dare use that name with me. You lost your right the moment you went after her." "Camille and I…" "I do not want to hear about it. I would have thought that you would at least show me the respect I deserve for carrying your child." "The same respect and honesty you've shown me as the father of your child?" I asked her and she looked at me, shocked. There was fear in her eyes and I couldn't understand why. "Rebekah told me the truth about you and your sisters, Katerina. How could you keep something like that from me? You were promised to a Salvatore brother?" I asked her and shook her head. "Elijah, please, leave me alone. I don't want to talk about it." I looked around and noticed that everyone else was still sleeping, when I grabbed her hand and spun her around.

"Why couldn't you have told me about this? Have you been…with anyone?" I asked her and once again I could see that fear on her face. She was hiding something, and I couldn't figure out what. Gulping, she shook her head and whispered, "There is nothing that you need to know about me or my sisters, Elijah." "Kol has brought me information that Elena was already found in bed with one of those brothers, on President Snow's orders to produce an heir. Will you be in the same position when we get back home?" Katherine laughed and told me. "You will get back home for sure. I was not injected with that formula. If I get killed, I am done for and so is this child. I don't have any guarantee that I will get home as you all Mikaelsons will." "As long as you are carrying my child, Katerina, you will be home once the others have been eliminated." She looked towards the girl from District 3, Davina Claire and pointed at her. "Are you going to kill Kol's new little crush too?"

Growling, I raised my voice a little. "I want you to tell me who you have been promised to." "Why? Will it convince you that I am the woman you are meant to be with and not Camille?" There was a stunned expression on my face. "Katerina…Camille has nothing to do with this." "Yes, she does. She won your heart and I can see that no baby of mine is going to change that. What happened to us, Elijah? You told me that you would love me forever." "I have never made such promises and even if I did…if I recall…you were the one who left me." She opened her mouth to speak and whispered, "I became pregnant. I was frightened, Elijah." "I could have helped you, but you chose to leave me. You know how much I suffered at the time, Katerina and you didn't care for the feelings…" I stopped talking as I saw Rebekah standing up and looking at Katherine angrily. "Is she going to be a problem on this journey?" "If the journey is called, Getting Camille Back, then yes." Katherine snapped at her. The rest of the people stood up from the spot, wide awake and ready to attack.

"I wouldn't trust her if I were you, brother." Kol told me and picked up his spear, as Rebekah gave Katherine some food. "Why don't you stop being such a bitch and feed my nephew or niece?" she asked her and the woman only gave her an annoying glance, as she started eating. There was a moment of silence, but Kaleb picked up his spear and looked around saying, "Someone is here." "Can you feel it?" Davina asked him curiously and I could see my brother tense up at the moment, picking up his sword and taking Davina's hand. "I will be able to smash his head open when the time is right." Davina looked at him with disgust and said, "Don't be so brutal." Kol looked at her with a shocked expression as the person emerged from the shadows and I couldn't help but overhear Katerina growling with anger. "Camille." I whispered as I could see her frightened face, holding two bags and a bow. "Elijah." She whispered back and came to me, but cautiously. I shook my head in disbelief and said, "You don't think I would hurt you, would you?"

Camille looked at Kol and Kaleb holding their weapons and the moment I gave them the look, they placed their weapons down in surrender. "I was…looking for some fruits and…" she stopped as she could see Katherine with her hands crossed over her chest and an angrily look on her face, at her sudden appearance. "I am sorry. I know I shouldn't be here with you, but I…" I stopped her by pulling her in for a hug and whispering in her ear, "We are all going to get out of here on President Snow's orders." "What?" Camille asked. "He sent us syringes with a special formula that could keep us alive until all the others are dead. We are all going back home." Rebekah told her. "All of you?" Camille asked in disbelief. "I didn't take that cure, and neither did these two." Katherine replied and pointed to Davina and Kaleb. "So…what will happen…?" I could see the look in her eyes and before she could turn around and leave, I grabbed her hand and I whispered, "You are coming back home with me and my family." "My home is not with you. Of course I want to go home, but I can't…I can't trust that you will keep me alive."

"Sweetie, Niklaus was the one who ordered you out of this team. Elijah and I claim it to be a mistake and Nik is not here anyways so you are welcome to stick with us." Rebekah pointed out to her and Camille shook her head. "Where is Klaus? He did take the potion, didn't he?" I nodded and said, "We believe that he went after the girl from District 12, Hayley. He seems to have a bigger connection to her than we thought." "I was with Hayley. We were partners, with her and Josh. Until Josh left us, betrayed us and somehow, he got himself killed." "I killed him. And it is a good thing I did. If there is one thing that I cannot stand are people who betray one another." Rebekah raised her hand with pride. Camille turned her attention towards me. "I am not planning on betraying Hayley. She agreed to be my ally and somehow, we have even become friends. Some of you may think it is okay to betray the ones who have had your back, but I don't believe in that. I am going to go and find her." I took a deep breath and turned around, seeing that Rebekah was not sure about this and neither was Kol, but seeing the look in this woman's eyes, I simply couldn't resist. "She is probably with Niklaus. We shall go and find them both, and then…we will determine who is dead and who is alive."

**District 2: Mikael Mikaelson**

**Third Day in the Games**

I listened to Esther's words in my mind the entire morning, as I looked at the television…waiting for the moment they would show Niklaus, but they never have. I could see my long lost son, Elijah and I could also see Kol. Rebekah, my precious daughter, was doing the best thing for the family. Fear rose up in my chest at the thought of Niklaus' disappearance from the group I had told him to create. He was not reported dead, so where was he? I growled when I thought of his disobedience in these games. He has always followed my every word when he was home. What has changed? There was a ring of the doorbell and the maid went to get it at once. "Mr. Mikaelson!" I could hear a girl exclaiming formerly and I closed my eyes for a moment, as I realized Caroline was once again stepping on the property.

"What are you doing here?" I turned to her and asked as she entered the living room. Taking a deep breath she told me, "I just wanted to let you know that you were right to be suspicious of your son. He told me that…well, he didn't really tell me." "Spit it out!" I ordered to the girl, feeling my head light for that one moment. The yells between me and Esther from the other day were still affecting my ration. Caroline looked at me, shocked for a moment before saying, "When I went to visit him before the games started, he looked different and I tried to prove it to myself that he was still the same man that you have trained but he wasn't. He fell in love, and the girl he showed he was in love with was not me." "What are you saying?" "I am saying that he could be with her right now. That Hayley Marshall." She continued and pointed to the television. "I have trained Niklaus the best way I could over the years and you come here with such nonsense, to believe that he would turn his back on his family for a girl?" "At first I thought that he missed the love a woman could offer him. So that is why I went to him, for him to see me and I was hoping he would look at me like before, but he didn't. He went to her. His eyes showed her nothing but love and care. He went to her to protect her." I growled. "She is from District 12. She is using his protection and when the time comes, she will destroy him."

"Just send him a message to end this. Tell him that I want to be with him and he can still have me if he wants to. Tell him not to fall into the trap of that insolent girl living in poverty." Caroline's words no longer had any place in my mind, as Esther's words of her confession of adultery resumed. _"I have been with another man." She whispered and I thought that I didn't hear correctly. Turning around, I looked at her in horror. "We are no longer married so I suppose I should just tell you the truth." I glared at her, with no end, not believing for one moment that she had the nerve to cheat on me. "You were different and you were cruel after Finn's death. I thought that I could look past it and help you move on. I was just as broken as you were. But no. You were so completely stuck in the past that you just couldn't let it go, could you? You pushed me away when I needed comfort and you raped me that night when you came home drunk. I could no longer bear it and I fell into the arms of Ansel." My heart stopped. Ansel had been my business partner once…before his untimely death. How could that bastard do this to me? "We spent one night together…and that was enough." She admitted and more tears streamed down. Barely being able to move, I took in a deep breath and closed my eyes. "You were married to me…and you fell into the arms of another man." I tried to comprehend. "Yes. It was a few months after Elijah's birth."_

Ignoring Caroline, I grabbed my jacket and told the maid to get the girl out of my house. I stormed out and demanded for a train ticket to District 1. It wouldn't take me more than an hour to get there. Of course, Esther was not expecting me. "Should I let him in, m'lady?" Our eyes met and I could see her nodding, and the servant stepped aside, letting me enter. "What are you doing here, Mikael?" she asked me. "I do have every right to burst into your house uninvited, as you have done so yesterday." "That is a very good point. But what are you doing here?" "I came to talk to you about what you said yesterday." "I got that off my chest. I do not wish to speak in detail about me and Ansel." "Ansel." I repeated, knowing deep inside my heart how much I hated this man now, even though he passed away. We were best friends, working together, and he went with my wife behind my back. The anger was directed towards him and surprisingly, not as much to her, even if she did cheat on me.

"I feel I do not know everything." I continued speaking as I walked around the house. "What do you want to know?" "Esther…I have known you for years and I can see through the fear in your eyes that there is more to this. I have thought it over last night. I could barely sleep…and then…I started thinking about our sons and our daughter. I was watching today on television, the disappearance of Niklaus from the group. The one thing that my children have in their blood in their love for family…" "Niklaus loves his family just as much and you know that!" Esther snapped. She was afraid of what I was going to say. I could see that. "Please let me finish. As I was saying…the way Niklaus abandoned the group, astounded me. And I realized…just how separated he is from the rest. Then, I thought about your words. I thought about your…indiscretion with Ansel." I could barely pronounce his name anymore as Esther bit on her lips. "You said you and I fell apart after Finn's death." "You showed me no more love or support. Like I said, I understand that you were in pain but I was too…and I really could have used your help, but you refused."

Knowing of her pain, made my heart ache for her. Closing my eyes for a moment as to not show any weakness or emotions in front of my ex-wife, I whispered, "Right after Elijah's birth, you told me, you went with Ansel. After Elijah's birth…came Niklaus'." "Mikael…" she began but I snapped at her at once, "Is there something you wish to tell me about Niklaus' birth? Because I don't remember wanting to have another child with you after Elijah. You came to me and you were desperate, and I was shocked, but I gave you what you wanted. This is why you wanted it. You wanted to conceal your indiscretion and the moment Niklaus was born; you had me convinced that he was mine!" "Mikael…" "AM I RIGHT?" I yelled at her and took a couple of steps back, as tears streamed down her cheeks.

"I…I…" she could no longer speak and I looked down in shock to see her feet wobbling and before I knew it, she had fainted right in front of me. I yelled for the maid at once as I cradled her in my arms as she called for medical assistance. In a matter of minutes, I could see doctors entering the premises. They took Esther and placed her on the couch, starting to examine her. I held my hand to my forehead in shock at what I have just discovered on my own. Niklaus…my son. I had been raising a boy who was not my blood…but Ansel's blood. Did the boy even know about this? Questions were roaming in my mind. Stepping into the bathroom, I yelled in rage and slammed my fist directly into the mirror, breaking it. "I cared for that boy. I gave him my family name. I promised him a future of riches…one Ansel could only dream of." I whispered to myself, as I fell on my knees, anger and hurt still on my face.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Third Day in the Games**

The light was shining through the crack that was left by me at the entrance of that cave. The rest was covered with dirt and rocks, as to cover me and Hayley up. She was sleeping soundlessly next to me, and I could see that she must have been very tired and hungry before I found her. For the first time, I noticed my arm around her waist and she was holding it with both of her hands to her face. Pulling it away, I searched for my jacket, which was lying on the floor. Picking it up, I could see the syringe I had stolen. I knew for what purpose. Looking back at the "little wolf", I knew I had to give this to her. I wanted her to survive with me. I put in back in the jacket and looked through the backpack for something to eat. I was able to make the same sandwich as yesterday and thankfully, the products were not ruined.

My father…Mikael…came into my mind as I sat there and thought about my life, the life I had been living as a lie and that my mother had waited for me to leave home, to finally tell me that Mikael was not my father. Not even the guts did she have, to say it to my face. She had written me a simple letter, thinking I would be okay with such shocking news. I couldn't bear the thought of Mikael himself finding out about this…or Elijah, or Kol…and especially not Rebekah. I felt arms around my neck and I couldn't help but smile at that gesture from her. I placed my own hand on hers and started rubbing it softly. "How did you sleep, love?" I asked her and she placed her head near my own. "Perfect with you." Sighing, I told her, "You are not going to let any of this go are you?" "What are you talking about?" she asked me, innocently. "You know what I am talking about Hayley." She pulled her hands away from me and I felt disappointment rise within me as I could no longer feel her warmth. I knew I wanted her support.

"What are you doing?" I asked her and she said, "I am not doing anything. You just continue to be an ass and reject me from even touching you when I know that something is bothering you." I could sense how upset she was and it could only make me chuckle. I stood up and placed my hands on her waist as she was searching through her bag for food. "Do you want to share with me?" I asked and I intentionally placed my lips on her neck to get a reaction out of her. She seemed outraged, as she detangled herself from me. "Stop it." She insisted. Hayley tried walking away but I pulled her back to me, leaning my head down to her neck to kiss it. Her moans were arousing me, as I continued to press kisses there, as she cradled my head in her hands, pulling me closer as my hands were around her waist in seconds. After a couple of minutes, she pulled back from me and whispered, "Make up your mind." "With what?" "Do you want me in your life or don't you? I am not some toy, Klaus." I shook my head and gently laid my forehead on hers. "I do want you…but I can't have you." "Why not? Why are you fighting this?" she exclaimed in outrage, cupping my cheeks. "Hayley, it is my family."

"Tell me about your family." "I cannot." "Yes, you can. You just have to be strong enough to do it. I want to know, Klaus. I have told you everything that you needed to know about my late father, Jack and my mother who abandoned Lucy, Jake and me, and then came back into their lives, not mine. You know the world I live in is so different from yours. The only thing I know about you is your distant relationship with your brothers and the conflict between your parents which I only heard about on television. Family is a delicate subject for me, as it is for you. But if there is something bothering you, you can tell me. Who can understand you better than me?" "Hayley…" "Please, Klaus. Like you said, there are no cameras here. What you say to me is going to remain here. I promise you…I would never do anything to hurt you." I shook my head. "You put your faith in Josh with our secret and he was ready to blackmail you." "Josh was a lost cause and this situation is different because…" she bit her lip and stopped talking at once, making me curious. "Because?" I encouraged her to tell me. She shook her head and it made me laugh. "Now you tell me, little wolf. Who is not being honest and keeping secrets?"

Her beautiful hazel eyes looked into mine as she whispered, "I love you." To me. I gaped at her for a moment, unsure of what to say. "You what?" She simply smiled and said, "This might be my only chance to say it. We are not seen or heard by anyone. I was just as happy as afraid when I saw you came last night." "Afraid?" I asked her, shocked. "Afraid that you might turn your back on me. That you would…do as you were told…kill me. I had to be careful." "Little wolf…" I cupped her cheek and brought her even closer to me. "After all we have been through, you think that I would intentionally hurt you?" "I didn't know what to believe at that moment." She told me, frankly and I accepted her honesty. "I told you…I told you this because…" Before she could finish explaining, I grabbed her strongly by her chin, making her surprised and pressed my lips against hers, making her moan in pleasure. "Why are you so stubborn, little wolf?" I murmured as I kissed her jawline. She smiled and ran her fingers through my hair as I continued to pleasure her. "Because I have never felt love before you."

This didn't last more than a couple of minutes and I was disappointed when she pulled away and looked at me seriously. "What is wrong with you? Share it with me. Let me take away your pain." She practically begged and I could sense how much she adored me. She had so much love to offer, and she wanted to offer it to me. "We have come a long way, Hayley." "Then tell me." She wasn't going to let it go, so I figured I should get the secret off my chest. "I have been living a complete lie." "What are you talking about? What happened?" "I received a letter from my mother…telling me that my father, Mikael…isn't really my father. She had an affair with someone after Elijah was born. I was conceived from that affair."

Shock was written all over her face as she covered her mouth with a gasp and pulled me in for a hug. "Please tell me that is not true." I buried my face in her neck as I let the tears stream and whispered, "It is true, love. Mikael is not my true father and if he ever were to find out…I could lose everything. He wouldn't want to have anything to do with me anymore." "How can you say that? He raised you." "He cares a lot about family blood. He only cares about the people who are his blood. His flesh and blood. If he were to find out…I could lose my home…I could lose my brothers, I could lose Rebekah and my mother…my mother could pay with her life for adultery. It is treason of the highest standard in our district. It is of great importance to remain faithful in your marriage when you are in my home, my family. Mother betrayed that oath…" Hayley placed her finger on my lips and whispered, "He is not going to find out then. Thank you for trusting me so much to tell me something like this." "I needed to tell someone eventually." I whispered and she nodded as she pressed her forehead against mine again.

"I know what it's like to feel this abandoned. I know, Klaus. I have lived a long time without a father to turn to and the moment I turned 12, Mother left me, Jake and Lucy to starve. She was afraid for me, she afraid for herself to have to watch me in these games if I ever were chosen. I have been feeling alone for the past couple of years, even with having Jake and Lucy in my life. You filled that hole in my heart…I don't know how…you did it. And I fell in love with you." I smiled at hearing those words and kissed her softly again. "I am beginning to think we are a lot alike, little wolf." I caressed that part on her shoulder where I knew was her wolf tattoo. Before she could respond, we heard a sound outside, like a bird singing. "Sponsors." Hayley whispered and I nodded, as we both carefully left the cave, making sure that it was not a trap. When the coast was clear, we headed over to a metallic box that landed with a parachute. "Definitely from sponsors." I told Hayley, who opened the box.

"There is a note addressed to me…along with medicine for the liver and heart and vegetable soup." I looked over the pills that had been brought to us as Hayley looked over the letter. "It's from Kieran." She whispered. "From whom?" "My mentor. It looks important." I smirked. "He knew you were with me somehow." Hayley bit her lip and started reading to herself as I leaned over her shoulder to read too.

_Hayley,_

_I am no longer going to doubt your actions. You are a bright girl and I know that you will always do the right thing. But do not let your heart get the best of your judgment. I beg of you. The medicine I have provided for you if especially for your heart and for anti-liver damage. Take two pills of each after every meal._

_The Capitol is losing control. The districts are outraged that a pregnant woman was forced into this competition, aka, the girl from District 1. I sense things will come to an end sooner than we think, and if we aren't careful, it will lead to a revolution bigger than the one after the 75__th__ Games. Stay safe, Hayley and once again, be careful regarding the decisions you make._

**A/N: The next chapter will have some really romantic Klayley, as they have finally admitted their feelings for each other and Klaus has shared with Hayley a secret he has kept all to himself since he found out. There will also be an important moment with Katherine and what her pregnancy is doing to the games. **

**Also, Klaus will reveal the syringe to Hayley. How do you think she will react? What do you think will happen to Mikael now that he knows Klaus is not his son? Will Esther be okay?**

**Thank you for reading and please leave me reviews!**


	19. Survival Of The Damned

**In the previous chapter, Klaus and Hayley have finally met in the bayou and after spending the night together in a cave, they have finally come to terms with their feelings for each other. Elijah had confronted Katherine about the way her family services the Capitol. Camille has been found and revealed the syringes by the Mikaelson family, as Mikael had confronted Esther about whether or not Niklaus was his son, the answer breaking him apart. Hayley and Klaus received help from sponsors and also a letter from Kieran.**

**In this chapter, Hayley and Klaus decide to spend more time, away from the cameras which could affect them and their families. Hayley informs Klaus of her plan to stop the games and save many tributes. Klaus reveals to her his darkest fears and his childhood, as he reveals to the woman he loves the syringe he has been hiding. More tributes are found and some find the end of their lives, as the Career Tributes finally come face to face with Klaus and Hayley. Rebekah runs into a man she knew once, but lost along the way in her life. Elijah and Camille finally share an important moment about a possible future, with Katherine's baby. The finale has a poisonous end. **

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Third Day in the Games**

I had not stopped looking over the message that has been sent to me. Klaus was picking up the provisions that were left for us and taking them back in the cave. I bit my lip and wondered how much of my life in the games Kieran was seeing. Was he disappointed in me deep down that I chose to follow my heart and to be with Klaus? This man, he had been with me just as much as my mentor has been, and he has helped me train, protected me and saved me the other night. Somewhere along the way, I fell in love with him, and it was hard for me to let go of something like that. Klaus was not using me. He wouldn't have shared a secret this big about his father, a secret he hasn't shared with anyone else, not even his own siblings, if he didn't care about me and if he didn't trust me. I had faith in him, as he had faith in me. I decided to reread the letter that was addressed to me, thinking of what to do.

_Hayley,_

_I am no longer going to doubt your actions. You are a bright girl and I know that you will always do the right thing. But do not let your heart get the best of your judgment. I beg of you. The medicine I have provided for you if especially for your heart and for anti-liver damage. Take two pills of each after every meal._

_The Capitol is losing control. The districts are outraged that a pregnant woman was forced into this competition, aka, the girl from District 1. I sense things will come to an end sooner than we think, and if we aren't careful, it will lead to a revolution bigger than the one after the 75th Games. Stay safe, Hayley and once again, be careful regarding the decisions you make._

The decisions I was making were correct, and I knew at that moment that he must have found out about me and Klaus, at least from Rona. Oh, how much I missed the three of them. They have been like my parents for the past week since I had arrived at the Capitol. Before then, I didn't have a father to guide me the way Kieran had guided me through the games, and not just through the games. Through life in general. He has filled in the gap in my heart. He has been the father I always wanted and needed someone to be in my life. As for Effie, she has been the mother I wanted that woman, Annabelle to be. She had dressed me, given me womanly advice and scolded me like a mother would, whenever I did not have the proper manners to be a lady around the prestigious home and the city. As for Rona, she had been like a bigger sister to me. And I was happy that I had told her about my secret affair with Klaus during the training. These three people were in my heart and I knew that at this moment, I was not fighting to get back just to Jake and Lucy. I was fighting to see these three people who have taken me in as their apprentice and have cared for me as a normal family would. I missed that. I truly missed that. I had to do whatever it took to get back at all of the people dear in my heart.

"Feeling alright, little wolf?" I felt him bend down next to me, and take the letter so he could look over it again. I shook my head after offering him a small smile. "There is another revolution brewing, Klaus. It could start or end in my district. We are the fighters. Katniss Everdeen was from my district and you know that. She fought for what she believed in. If Kieran is telling the truth, then this certainly started from my home and my people. And here I am, unable to do anything about it, because I am playing the game Live or Die." My hands landed in the grass, pulling it out and throwing it around, as the anger boiled up inside of me. Klaus cupped my cheek and made me look at him as he whispered, "You are a very strong and remarkable girl and you can go through anything. I am here for you, love, remember that." My forehead touched his in a comforting moment.

"Are you hungry?" he suddenly asked me, which made me look up and stare into his adoring eyes. "No. We ate." I responded and at that moment, I could see a mischievous smirk playing on his face, and this was the angry and sexy part of Klaus I knew and loved. He grabbed my hands and together we stood up, as he took us back into the cave and covered us inside. I giggled the moment I could feel his lips at my neck, sucking on the skin softly, as I erupted moans from my mouth. "What are you doing?" I asked him in a whisper, as he gently laid me down on the two blankets we had. "Giving into the passion I had wanted ever since our first night, little wolf." "Now?" I asked him, astounded, but my body was not doing anything to reject him. "What is the harm, love?" he mumbled and moved his lips to my own in a soaring kiss. He pulled off my jacket and my shirt as I was fumbling with the zipper of his pants. Soon, we were both out of our clothes and fighting for control. He couldn't help but chuckle at my eagerness.

"Careful, little wolf. For all you know, I could be lying and we could be on television. Your reputation could be ruined, being seen with me." He was being playful, as his mouth was trailing hot kisses on my stomach, making me arch my back in pleasure as I whispered back, running my hands through his hair. "If we were being filmed, you wouldn't have said all those sweet things to me about yourself and you certainly wouldn't have revealed your secret to the world." He stopped for a moment and I really thought that I had touched a nerve and I was ready to apologize but his lips were on mine in mere seconds and mumbling, "You do make a point here, love, one which I cannot look past. I look forward to everything we do here together and I am hoping that what happens here, will be between us…and no one else is to know about what we do and what we speak of." He was asking me if I was comfortable with keeping such secrets. How could I not be? These were not my secrets to share. I nodded slowly and he smiled.

Taking my left thigh in his hand, he pulled it over his leg and pressed a kiss on my forehead, saying, "Are you sure you want to do this here…with me?" he was asking me. Our eyes met and I looked confused. "Why wouldn't I want this? Klaus, I love you. No one and nothing is going to change my mind about that. Please…I do want this. I want to be here with you, away from the cameras. I want you to make love to me. I want to be the girl you want me to be. I want everything." He was smiling down on me as I cupped his cheeks and pressed the softest of kisses on his own lips, which he accepted gradually, moving his hands up and down my thighs. "You are what I want, little wolf. No change." He responded to my confession and pressed a light kiss over the tattoo he knew I had of the warrior wolf. The moment he entered me, it was as if I left the world, unable to think of anything else. He made me forget about everything, about the war outside of the arena, the deaths inside of it. We were in our own little bubble, and as we were rocking together as one, I knew this was our moment, and no one would steal it from us. I had never had a man to touch me this way. He was kind and he was caring to me. He was letting go of the mask he put on with everyone else. Klaus Mikaelson was different with me. He was my own.

After the way he had passionately made love to me, he let go of my thighs and wiped the sweat off my forehead as I breathed in his scent. Klaus smiled down on me and gently kissed my forehead as I nuzzled against his neck, running my fingers down his spine and making him shiver at my touch. He finally got down from me, but pulled me closer as we were wrapped in a blanket. I kept looking at the hole of the cave from time to time. Klaus pulled at my chin and made me look at him. "There is no need for that worry, little wolf. No one will walk in on us. No one can see or hear us. It's just you and me." I smiled and touched his chest. "Is that really what you want from us?" He smirked and crashed his lips against mine again. "Doesn't this prove anything, little wolf?" "It does. But I just want to hear you say it." I told him with a playful smile on my face. Klaus was looking at me unbelievably. "What happened to the tough girl I knew at the beginning of her training?"

"She is still here, just not when you are being so romantic. What can I say? The games have changed me a little." I commented truthfully as he pulled me even closer to him. "That's too bad. I would have enjoyed seeing a feisty Hayley into my bed." "This is not a bed, not even close. We are in the arena, the place where we should be killing off people to save ourselves and here you are…with me…" I knew I couldn't continue and he smirked at that. What we were doing was more than wrong from most people's points of view. But not for us. "I don't regret any of this." "Even if your father finds out?" I asked him and at that moment, I felt like slapping myself. How could I say this to him? Biting my lip, I tried to look away but he was smiling, making me look back into his eyes. "I thought that we have already established that Mikael is not my father, and no one will find out about us here." At that moment, we heard the canon go off and I immediately ran over to the entrance of the cave to look up into the sky. The girl that was from District 5, Gia, had been eliminated. "Twelve left." I mumbled as I felt Klaus' lips on my shoulder, soothing me.

"We can just stay here, until it is all over. No one will find us." He told me but I shook my head. "What about your family?" I could see that he had not thought about this as carefully as I thought that he had. I touched his cheek and made him look at me as I whispered, "I appreciate you coming to me and making me feel safe. I really do. Because now you know how I feel about you. But you can't turn your back on your family for me. I won't let you do that. You must go to them and help them." "They would kill you without hesitation." Klaus snarled at me. I really had no answer for that. "But they are still your family." I finally whispered and he pressed his lips to my ear, whispering, "You told me how you feel about me. You told me you loved me, remember?" When I nodded, I could feel him smiling as he continued. "Then you must know that your feelings for me are reciprocated. Whether you like it or not, little wolf, you are going to have to accept the love I hold for you. I am not leaving you, do you understand me?" His words made me flutter inside out of happiness as he pulled away to look at me, and I felt like jumping into his arms. "Do you really mean that?" How could I be sure that he felt this way for me? We were from two completely different districts. His people were supposed to be my people's enemy. "On whatever I hold dear. I would never lie to you about my feelings, which is why I am not leaving anywhere." He admitted.

**District 2: Rebekah Mikaelson**

**Third Day in the Games**

"How can we be sure that Nik is with this girl?" I asked, huffing as I was getting tired from holding all of the weapons, just as Kol was. Elijah looked towards me and whispered, "Because he hasn't stopped thinking about her since the moment he entered the arena. He left to see that she was okay, to protect her. And Camille knows the way we can reach them." He turned to the blonde walking next to him and I could see a little blush creeping on her cheeks at the intense gaze my brother was offering her. "I know the place where I told Hayley we would meet again after I received the food we needed to survive. Elijah, please…" He pulled her to him and whispered, "I promised you that we would not harm Hayley. If Niklaus cares for her that much…we would not dare to harm her." I sighed and stopped, turning around to face him.

"And what the bloody hell are we going to do then? Are we going to drag her along too? Elijah, look at us. We are being pathetic." "How so, little sister?" "We have too many allies. In case you do not remember, President Snow has offered us the chance to leave the games unharmed thanks to Father. He might accept Katherine joining us since she is carrying your bun in her oven, but what about Hayley, Davina or even this Kaleb guy?" I started lowering my voice as I approached my brother and asked him these questions. "What do you expect me to say, Rebekah? You have always had a good and understanding heart. I don't understand why it would be that difficult for you to accept to save the lives of other innocent people in these brutal games. You have always rooted for the underdogs." I looked at him for a moment before whispering, "What do you expect me to say, brother? The games have changed me." With that, I turned around and headed in a different direction. "Where are you going?" Kol called out after me. "Food! You stay put and don't wait up. I will find you!" I called out to them.

Leaving the group was never what I had planned, but I was too angry at myself and at Nik. I had a feeling that one day he would find a girl to care for this much, and he would forget all about our times together. I knew how selfish and ridiculously stupid it sounded for me to be jealous of my own brother, but I could not stand to see him showing the care he had shown me all my life to another woman. We always had each other's backs and it was unfair that he got to find someone special and I was left behind. With these angry thoughts going through my head, I was barely paying attention to where I was going. Hearing some rustling in the bushes, I immediately raised my bow and was ready to aim. "Well, well, well, look who we have here!" A woman exclaimed and I felt like I could no longer breathe. I recognized her. The girl from District 11, Sabine. She had her sword, ready to attack me.

Turning to the side, I saw another figure emerge from the shadows, but this one did not seem too pleased with Sabine's actions. "Come on, man, just leave her alone!" he called out to her and I felt like tears were dripping from my eyes, my ears and my mouth. The colored guy faced Sabine and told her to back off. "Are you crazy? We are here to kill, Marcel! We have never been the ones to kill for our district. We have always been the weakest as Districts 1 and 2 thrived. Even if I don't make it, I am sure as hell going to pride myself with killing off the District 2 Barbie here." Sabine said and aimed her sword at me, as my eyes could not leave the face of the guy next to her. I knew him, I knew I knew him from somewhere and when Sabine said his name, my heart melted. I could remember what happened. I was 12 years old the first time I met him. I was that explorative little girl that my father hated. He wanted me to be disciplined, but I always had a passion for adventure and of course, compassion for the weaker ones. Marcel looked up into my eyes and I knew that he remembered me too.

_I was not ready to face this, like brothers had to before me. I knew that I had my life cut out to do something better for myself. I was only 12. My life had to go on. Giggling, at nighttime, I twisted my hair around in a braid and quickly put on a dress which would not show that I come from a wealthy family. Father was fast asleep and so was Nik. Tomorrow would be a very long day, the day of the annual Reaping. I wondered what the rest of the districts were doing. Were they as calm as the people in our district? Sneaking myself into a late train, I finally made my way to the one district I have been wanting to see, and knew I could never see even if I asked my parents. They wouldn't let me go. District 11 was the opposite of ours. They were poor and they were working like slaves for the Capitol to provide food and drinks._

_Knowing that I could get in big trouble, I hid as best as I could the moment I reached District 11, remembering the time when I would have to get back as to not miss the train that would take me back home. People were working this late in the night. Some more than others. What frightened me was to see such young children working. One of them had seen me. He was a young dark color-skinned boy, maybe one or two years older than me. "Hey!" he called out to me and dropped his ax, as I backed away and started running for my life. But the boy was older than me and he grabbed my hand, keeping me still. "Hey, who are you? Don't run. I won't hurt you." His voice soothed me. I looked up into his eyes and I saw that he was being serious. "I'm not supposed to be here." I finally mumbled and he pulled me off the ground. He was inches taller than me. "My name is Marcel. What's your name?" "Rebekah." I mumbled. "So, why are you not supposed to be here? Strict parents?" he asked me._

"_I'm not from this district." I mumbled and was afraid to look at him in the eyes when I said that. Marcel looked shocked for a moment before whispering, "Hey, it really is no problem, you know. Kids do a lot of things they are not supposed to. You just wanted to explore?" I pouted and held up my chin. "Yes. And I am not a little kid. I am 12." "And I'm 14. What's it to you?" "Nothing. I have to go." I turned around but he grabbed my hand. "Hey wait! Don't go. I won't tell anyone about you if you stay." "My parents will be mad if they find out I ran away from home." "Why did you run?" "Because I wanted to see other places than my home and they wouldn't let me. I sneaked here." "Why here?" "Because you're…different. I wanted to see other Panem citizens, how they are like." Marcel smiled at me and I smiled back. "Well, here I am. What do you want to know?"_

_We talked for many hours and I knew that he could get in trouble too if his parents found out that he was not working. He took care of me and I never had a friend like him before. We shared our experiences, different lives. We talked a lot and I felt at home with him. I was upset when I realized I had to go back. Why couldn't I see Marcel again? "Promise me we will stay friends." I hugged him and he nodded. "Always, little princess." The train took me back home, but when I walked through the door, my father was already telling me that I was grounded for leaving the house. He didn't let me leave again and I knew I would never see Marcel again. He was my only friend, besides, Nik, and he was no more. _

I lowered my bow and my arrow when I looked at him. He whispered, "Is it really you? Rebekah?' he asked me and I gulped. I wanted to let go of my weapons and to look at him again, admire what a man he grew up to be in just four years, since we have last seen each other. But Sabine was holding the sword in her hand and coming closer to me which is why I gripped the bow and the arrow again. Marcel spoke up again after a while and said, "Sabine, put it down." "Do you know this bitch?" Sabine shrieked at him. I felt anger boiling up inside of me as I raised my bow I aimed for her head, saying, "Insult me again and you won't see the light of another day." "Rebekah please…" Marcel came forward to me. "Don't you dare. I don't know what you want with me but you are her partner. You are both going to die." My eyes were fixed on Sabine and her spite as Marcel came closer to me, making me gasp when he whispered, "Little princess. It is you." That was the moment I knew it really was the boy I had befriended once. Our eyes met and I lowered my bow and my arrow.

Marcel offered me that smile I always knew he had which melted my heart. I couldn't help but smile back. "I can't believe it's really you." I whispered. There was a scream that erupted from Sabine's throat as she lunged herself at us and before I could react, Marcel had punched her in the stomach and taken her sword, plunging it inside of her, with tears in his eyes. His eyes met mine as the dead corpse of Sabine landed at our feet and the canon went off, indicating the death of another tribute, meaning there were only eleven of us left. "She wouldn't have stopped killing. I tried to talk reason in her…" Marcel started explaining but I cut him off. "Why wouldn't you kill?" "We are all innocent people here. We should be sticking together, instead of being against one another. We shouldn't be taking each other's lives for the Capitol. We should be protecting each other." Before I could stop myself, I took his hands in mine and whispered, "Just come with me."

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**Third Day in the Games**

Kol pulled me away from the rest and I rolled my eyes at how impatient he has been acting. "What is going on with you? We do not have time for this, Kol." I told him firmly and he nodded before saying, "I have been looking through Katherine's diary and…there is something that you need to know." He whispered. He kept looking behind me and I looked back as well, noticing Katherine sitting in the grass and pulling it out, annoyed for some reason, as she watched Camille speak to Davina. Afraid of what I was going to find out, I finally whispered to Kol. "Go on. What is there that I need to know about her?" "She is not carrying your child, Elijah. She lied."

My mouth parted in shock at hearing such nonsense. "What are you talking about? She is carrying my child. Look at her closely, Kol, there is a child growing inside of her. I am not blind." Kol's face showed concern as he took me by my shoulders and made us walk further away from the group. "I am not saying that she is not pregnant. I am only saying that is not your baby she is carrying. She has been lying to you, hoping to get you back, after she saw that you wanted nothing to do with her." I felt my heart stop when I heard such news and I took in a deep breath. "Wherever did you receive such outrageous information?" Kol scoffed. "I already told you that I read her diary! I know everything that she has been keeping from us, and let me tell you that the man whose baby she is carrying is Stefan Salvatore. She was impregnated by him before entering the games, because it had been her duty at the time to provide that sort of heir for the Salvatores. Elena has been doing the same thing with Damon Salvatore. It is all a lie. The Pierce sisters are caught in a deal they cannot get out of. It's a done deal, Elijah and as your brother, I wanted to inform you. That is not your kid and she wrote it in her diary, in black and white."

"How long have you known about this?" I asked him, barely being able to catch my voice. "I've known it since before we entered the games…" he began speaking and I grabbed him by the collar, hissing, "You wouldn't have thought it best to tell me this sooner? All this time, you and she have made me believe that child was mine. You are my brother. If you found out…" "Look, I couldn't. It was hard to tell you and I can't believe I had to be the one to tell you about the secret Pierce deal with the Capitol, most importantly with President Snow." "If this is true, how could President Snow allow her to compete pregnant with an heir he needs from a Salvatore combined with Pierce?" I asked him and Kol shrugged. "Like I said, this was supposed to be a secret, but I found out the day I went to the Pierces' home to tell Elena I loved her. I caught her in bed with that sleezeball and then Mother told me everything." He looked at me for a moment before asking, "What are you going to do now, brother?"

Before I could say anything, I felt Katherine behind me. "What is going on with you two? Are we just going to wait for Rebekah to resolve her issues and come back or are we going to stop wasting time and get moving to find your good for nothing brother?" she asked me. Anger boiled up inside of me at the very sight of this woman who has betrayed me in the most horrible way possible. "How could you lie to me about the baby, Katerina?" I asked her in a whisper and I could see the fear in her eyes as she took a couple of steps back from me. I tried to hide my anger, to try to understand. I held out my hands to her and whispered, "Katerina, I just want you to explain to me…" I couldn't finish because she started running, making Davina, Camille and Kaleb look at us in shock. She was running far away from us into the forest and I was ready to run after her but Kol grabbed a hold of me, saying, "Don't, brother. We can't split up like this. Let her go. She betrayed you, betrayed our family."

I could barely see anything in front of my eyes anymore as Kol left my side to speak to the others. I felt myself losing consciousness from the shock and before I could hit the ground, I felt hands holding me still and forcing a bit of water into my mouth. My eyes opened as I drank and I saw Camille, doing her best to keep me going. "Are you okay?" she asked me in a comforting way as I gently nodded and took the whole bottle for some more water. "What happened? Where has Katherine run off to?" she asked me. I threw the bottle to the ground in anger and whispered, "She lied to me. The baby is not mine. She lied to me." I growled and I felt her hands go around me, pulling me in for a very comforting hug. "I'm sorry she would do this to you." She whispered, sincerely.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Third Day in the Games**

I kissed her softly, as she rested her head on my chest. I could not believe that I have finally found the courage to show a girl…love. Love was the one thing I feared in my entire life. I was afraid of being loved, accepted by someone. I didn't believe it to be possible. Hayley, my little wolf, was unlike any other girl I had encountered in all districts. She had asked me earlier why I would choose to be with her and not with my family. My family had always come first and would always come first, but this is the first time I was experiencing love with a woman I admired more than anything in the world. Hayley was a fighter, strong, beautiful and incredibly smart. I knew that if she were from my district and I would have presented her to my family, they would immediately top her over Caroline without question. But being from the enemy district, I could only imagine what my mother would say, much less Mikael.

"What are you thinking about?" I heard her murmur against me as she ran her fingers over my chest in a comforting way and I held her close to me. "About life, love." "Are you afraid of it?" "I am not afraid of anything." "I know that is not true, Klaus. Everyone is afraid of something." "I am not supposed to be afraid of anything." She lifted her head so that we were eye to eye and frowned. "Is that what Mikael has taught you?" I hesitated for a moment before responding, averting my eyes. "It was the one lesson Mikael had taught me in my childhood that was correct. I must be strong for my family, for my future lover…wife…" I could see her start blushing as I was looking at her intensely. "But you must also be strong for yourself." She completed my sentence and I nodded, bringing her hand up to my lips and kissing it softly. I have made my decision regarding Hayley, at last. Pulling out the syringe from my jacket, I showed it to her. "What is this?" she asked in a whisper.

"It is a shot that can keep you protected throughout the entire games. No matter what happens, if you administer it, you will not die, no matter how badly you are injured." Hayley gasped at the new as she held the object in her hands. "Where did you get this?" I looked nervous as I told her the truth, knowing she would disagree with what has been happening. "President Snow sent me and my family these syringes." "Why would he do that?" "Because my father has contributed a lot to the Capitol and apparently, he wants my father and his family alive and beside him." I could see her mood changing and I was already regretting telling her. "And why are you showing me this?" she asked. "This is an extra syringe I stashed in my jacket before I left my group. I was waiting for the right time to give this to you…" "I don't want it." She suddenly snapped at me. "Hayley…" "No!" she raised her voice and pulled herself away from me, starting to get dressed. I remained quiet and di the same. The moment I finished dressing and put on my jacket, I grabbed her hands and whispered, "I want to save you."

"Not like this. I won't accept taking something from that monster!" she spat and I looked at her warningly. "Hayley, be careful what you say." "I am not afraid to hide my hatred for the man. He kills innocent children. He has for many years and it is not stopping. I am going to stop these games if I have to." I raised my eyebrow at her and asked, "How are you planning on doing that, little wolf?" "There are eleven of us left. We have to work together, all of us." "You cannot stop the killings, sweetheart. It does not work like this. You would become a target for the Capitol if they learn of your plan and I will not be able to protect you, Hayley. I do not want it to come to this." I murmured and cupped her cheek, making her look deep in my eyes so as to realize that I was being serious through my words. "Take the shot. I will save you from this place and you can go back home to Lucy and to Jake. You will be saved. I can guarantee your safety." She touched my hands and bit her bottom lip.

"What about this?" she asked me. "What are you talking about, love?" "Was this all just part of the games for you? You made love to me…" "Hayley, this is real. Everything in this cave that happened between us was real. Every touch, every kiss and every word. Everything was real and sincere and it is how I feel about you. I won't lose you. Not after all we've been through, and especially not after the games." "Then what exactly is your plan, Klaus? We come from different districts…" "You'll marry me." I told her and her eyes widened, as did mine, at what I was saying. "What are you talking about? Marry you?" she asked me. "Not now, of course. When we both become of age. I shall offer you a better proposal then." "Klaus, you are insane at this moment. We can't have a future together. I told you. We come from different worlds and Lucy and Jake need me back home more than anything. I am not going to leave my home for yours. I could never fit in with your kind. Your people are so…sophisticated to say the least. I work for a living, I…I have never been pampered or sheltered. I have fought for myself all my life. I am used to fighting for myself. How can you ask me to marry you? You barely know me."

"In the past weeks I have gotten to know you, I learned all there is to know about you. I wouldn't say that we barely know one another. Time is not of importance. I want you in my life, little wolf, and I can see you being my wife in that near future. Whatever it takes, I will do whatever it takes to make you say yes." "Why?" "Because of the love I flourish for you." I told her and her breathing hitched as I leaned forward and kissed her passionately. "Your family. My family." She mumbled and I whispered back, "We will find a way to make this work. I promise you that we will find our way. I have never experienced such love in my life, Hayley, and I don't believe I will again. Which is why, I am not letting you go. I never will." She smiled, offering me another kiss, as I placed the syringe back into her hands. "I need an answer, love." I told her. She was looking at it, when I heard a yell from outside the cave. "NIKLAUS! NIKLAUS, WHERE ARE YOU?" It was Elijah's voice. Hayley looked at me, and I could see some fear in her eyes as I soothed her with my touches. "Come with me."

The moment I left the cave with Hayley by my side, I noticed Elijah crouched down on the grass, looking over a dead body. The canon sounded off, signaling another dead tribute, ten being left. With Elijah, were Camille, Kol, Davina and Kaleb. "What is going on?" I demanded, as Camille immediately stepped over and flung her arms around me. "Thank God you're safe and Hayley…" she turned to her and hugged her as well. "Brother." Kol whispered and grabbed my shoulders, being supportive, but with pain in his eyes. "What is going on here, Kol?" I asked him. "Katherine…the baby she was carrying was not Elijah's. I found out from her diary, told Elijah and she ran away in fear and then she…ate some berries…following her death here." Hayley gasped and covered her mouth. "And the baby?" she whispered in shock and Kol nodded. I moved over to Elijah's side and I could see how much he was in pain. "Brother…"

"There is nothing you can say to me, Niklaus." He immediately said, but I touched his back without hesitation. I was not going to let him push me away like this. "Elijah, what has been happening? How…how is this all possible?" I could see him touching Katherine Pierce's hair in silence. Her body was ridged and cold at the touch and her face was pale, red smudge over her lips, indicating that she had indeed eaten those poisonous berries.

**A/N: This was the poisonous end that I was talking about. This was about Katherine's death. For the sake of the story, it had to be done. And another shocker: The baby was never Elijah's to begin with and Katherine broke up with Elijah when she did because of her duty to her family, after the Pierces made the deal with the Capitol to provide heirs. What did you think about Klaus and Hayley's sweet moments and confessions? Will Hayley take the cure against death itself?**

**Thank you for reading and please leave me reviews!**


	20. Rebels From The Ashes

**Previously in the games, Klaus and Hayley shared their feelings for one another through more ways than one. Rebekah came face to face with the man who was once her childhood crush from District 11, Marcel Gerard. Hayley told Klaus about her plan to stop the games. Kol revealed to Elijah the secrets that he has found through Katherine journals about the baby not really being his, making her run away for her life. Klaus revealed the syringe which could spare anyone from death to Hayley, leaving her with a decision to make, as Elijah found Katherine dead. **

**In this chapter, Elijah mourns the loss of Katherine and tries to find a way to forgive her for lying to him about being the father of the baby she was carrying. Hayley, Klaus and Camille talk in the no-camera cave about a plan they would need to execute in order for them all to get out of there. Klaus confronts Rebekah about her decision to bring Marcel with her, after revealing how she knows him, and Kol finds a comforting moment with Davina, jealous of the looks she gives to Kaleb. Mikael visits Esther at the medical center to talk about their sons, as the final enemy for the group of tributes is eliminated, losing a dear ally in the process. Finally, Kieran contacts Hayley. **

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**Fourth Day in the Games**

I bit my lip as I tried to go to sleep that night. It was hard for me to sleep in that cave, even though I knew that it was secure from all the cameras. Away from me, Camille, Kol, Davina and Kaleb were snuggled in their own blankets trying to get some rest after a long and tiring day. I felt nervous, especially since the rest probably didn't know that I had in my jacket the last syringe which could prevent my death. I didn't know what to do with it. Could I really just accept it as a gift from Klaus? Accepting it would mean that I would get out of here safe and sound, to get back to Jake and Lucy, but it would also mean that I would be in President Snow's debt. I didn't wish for that to happen. I would have rather died than do that. Shaking my head, I tried to go to sleep, knowing that Klaus and Elijah were still outside trying to figure out a way to bury Katherine. I truly felt bad for what Elijah had to go through this day.

The next moment, I heard movement outside of the cave and I immediately shut my eyes, afraid of what could be happening. According to the rest, there were two tributes left who did not belong to the group. They could find us, and when they did, they could kill us easily. My heart started beating normally and I relaxed when I felt his warm hands around me, pulling me close to him. He pressed his lips to my head and caressed my skin softly. "Are you alright, little wolf?" There was that nickname again. "I am now that you're here. Is everything okay?" "Yes. We managed to bury Katherine somewhere. Elijah still mourns her." I nodded and kissed his palm whispering, "Then let him be. He has been betrayed by the same person whom he cared for deeply, and then this person died. It must be really hard for him to accept this death." He nodded and whispered, "I hope Rebekah is alright." "Where do you think she would have gone?" "She cannot be killed, which is a relief, but I still worry for her."

He pulled me closer to him and I smiled as my back pressed against his chest and he covered us even more with the blanket we shared, which kept us warm. "I want you to sleep peacefully knowing that I will be here with you at all times, love. No one will harm you." He told me reassuringly when he noticed me flinch at every sound I heard outside of the cave. "I know. I trust you. I just…I want to get out of here as soon as possible." "And you will. I will make sure of it. We are going to get back as soon as we kill off the last two tributes." I didn't know how to feel about that. There came that necessity when we had to kill off other people in order to save ourselves quicker. Those were the rules of these games and we had to respect them in order to survive. "Okay." I finally responded and I felt him turn me around and press his lips gingerly over mine, making me let out a soft moan to which he smiled. "Try to get some rest now, love. We shall speak more in the morning." I closed my eyes and let myself dream of a better life, a better life I could have with him, outside of the games. A life where we were given all the riches in the world. My father was alive…my mother had never left me…Jake and Lucy were given sweets every day and Klaus and I…happily married, with children of our own. I wanted this life. I longed for this life.

My eyes opened early in the morning and I felt Klaus' trusting hands around me, making me feel the safest possible. My smile left my face the moment I looked around me and I noticed the entire Career team with their very own blankets, sleeping soundly. The only people I felt I could trust were the man sleeping next to me, Camille, who was sleeping close to a very exhausted Elijah, and of course Davina, my friend from before we were thrown in the games. She was the only one who has always been completely honest with me and has sought out my friendship with nothing in return which I could have offered her. I couldn't say the same thing about Josh. I shook my head, feeling disoriented due to his death. I felt for some reason that this was all my fault, but remembering how he had blackmailed me to get himself to safety sent fury attached to the memory of him. Klaus stilled next to me and I could feel him slowly turning me around to face him.

There was a small smile on his face as he kissed my lips and whispered, "How is it possible that when I look at you…the pain I feel all goes away?" I felt for him, I really did. He has had a troubling life after which he had been informed by his mother that he has been living a lie. The father who has been so hard on him that he barely trusted anyone outside of his family, turned out not to be his true father after all. I caressed his face and said, "When you will get back, you will be able to fix your relationship with him. He must know the truth about you and you must free yourself of this weight that has been pressed on your heart. You have to tell Mikael who you really are. He has a right to know." "He will never look at me the same again and I cannot imagine what will happen when Elijah, Kol and Rebekah find out. Our family has been through a lot of pain when our parents separated. I have never told you about Mother. She wasn't always as vulnerable as people claim she is at the moment. She was strong, a fighter and she was really beautiful which is why Mikael wanted her to be his wife. But they lost their first baby and things changed between them. Nothing was the same."

I shook my head and brought myself closer to him. "How do you know about all of this? You were not even born yet." "I learned a couple of things from Elijah. My mother's first born was named Finn. She couldn't deliver him in time and stained her relationship with Mikael. He never offered her the same sort of comfort and care, but he needed a Mikaelson heir so they tried again and Esther delivered it this time. Elijah was born. After that…I suppose my father was still not pleased with her, so she decided to find comfort in the arms of another man. I was born, but from what Elijah told me, Mikael was the happiest after my birth. He named me Niklaus after his father, said that such a name represents Victory of the People. He pushed me hard all of his life. Elijah told me that I was the favorite son. I didn't believe him because I was treated poorly by Mikael. Elijah, Kol and Rebekah always had his heart. I didn't. I was pushed by Mikael to be the warrior of the family, as he would put it."

"He loved you in his own way." I told him and Klaus looked at me, surprised of my conclusion. "You really believe that? You don't consider me as a pain in the ass for any woman, or for any family member?" "Why would you believe something like that? You were your father's favorite for always and that is why he pushed you the most because he always believed that you would be this family's savior." "You are wrong about that, love. Elijah is the noble brother, the one in charge of keeping the family together. He has been for years." "Maybe that is how some people view him, but not Mikael. If Elijah is right by saying that you have always been Mikael's favorite son, then finding out that you are not his biological one is not going to change his opinion of you." "How are you to know that, little wolf? You do not know Mikael as I do. He has always been firm and angry by even the slightest mistakes. It is why my mother left him." "He chose you and Rebekah to stay with him. He must have cared for you the most." "He chose me because he didn't want me to detach from my program and he chose Rebekah because she has always been the light and the heart of the family. He needed the comfort…so did I."

I didn't know what else I could say. I did my best to comfort him but it seemed it wasn't enough. "Do you think that Rebekah will be okay?" "Of course she will be okay. She has been injected…" His words lingered as he noticed the look on my face. He cupped my cheek and said, "I am not pushing you, little wolf." "No, I know that. I simply feel…" "What do you feel?" "I feel overwhelmed by what you said to me yesterday. I really don't know what to say." He smirked and said softly, "Could you remind me what I said to you?" he really was teasing me and I hit him playfully in the arm. "Come on. Are you seriously asking me that?" "Yes." He was convinced and he was serious about this. "You asked me to marry you, after all of this is over. Klaus…we are barely of age." "And I promised you that I would wait. I was serious, love." "You want to marry someone like me?" He frowned. "What is exactly is wrong with you that I can't marry you?" "For starters, we are from completely different districts and I am not your type." "How would you know?" "I have seen Caroline. I saw what type she is. I am the opposite of that." "How are you to know that what I shared with Caroline was serious? I told you, it wasn't."

"But you were in a relationship with her." "Because my father insisted on it. He found Caroline incredibly attractive and believe it or not, he said that…we would have good-looking children." I made a face and he agreed. "I know. Mikael can be like that. But I can assure you that you are more the type my father would want for me." "If I wasn't from District 12." "Enough with the district comparison. I love you, Hayley. I meant what I said to you. I want to marry you when the time comes. I want to wake up like this every day with you by my side." "In a cave?" I smirked at him and he returned it. "Laugh it up, but this cave has turned out to be the comfiest and safest place for us since we got here. Show some respect, love." I giggled and whispered, "You're right. I am going to miss it somehow." We looked around and noticed that the others were starting to get up. Klaus rubbed my shoulder comfortingly, noticing my tension running high. He pressed his lips to my ear and whispered, "Nothing will happen to you. I promise."

**District 2: Mikael Mikaelson**

**Fourth Day in the Games**

I watched as she was in the bed at the medical center. She was put on many medical treatments. Just seeing her like that, made my blood boil. We were having a serious conversation about our children and her betrayal. How could she do this to me emotionally? "What is going on?" I asked one of the paramedics, who was taking notes. "She seems to have passed out. Something to do with the high blood pressure or the stress level. We are not exactly sure but I can assure you, sir, that she will be fine. Would you like to remain with her as we examine?" He asked me and I looked over at my passed out ex-wife. "Yes, I shall remain." I told him calmly and he nodded. "Very good, sir." For that one moment, they all left the room, so it would just be me and her. Her eyes were closed and her face was pale. I knew that I could never admit this to her, but I still cared for this woman so much. Seeing her in pain challenged my own blood pressure. I knew that I would pay for her treatment no matter the cost. But her pain would not match the pain I felt of what she had revealed she had kept a secret from me all this time. She had no right to take herself away from me. We were married. After Finn's loss, it was torture for both of us but never would I have turned my back on her and be with another woman, as she had turned her back on me. She had no idea how much she had stained our relationship…my relationship with the son I thought I had.

"_Mikael…" she began but I snapped at her at once, "Is there something you wish to tell me about Niklaus' birth? Because I don't remember wanting to have another child with you after Elijah. You came to me and you were desperate, and I was shocked, but I gave you what you wanted. This is why you wanted it. You wanted to conceal your indiscretion and the moment Niklaus was born; you had me convinced that he was mine!" "Mikael…" "AM I RIGHT?" I yelled at her and took a couple of steps back, as tears streamed down her cheeks. "I…I…" she could no longer speak and I looked down in shock to see her feet wobbling and before I knew it, she had fainted right in front of me._

Esther was moving and my head snapped up so I could meet her eyes. She gently opened them and looked at me with pity and sorrow, but I wanted none of that. I never asked for anyone's pity and I wasn't going to start now. "Mikael." She whispered. That voice…the voice which mesmerized me since the moment I first met her. Her hand reached out to mine and touched it, as I was sitting on a chair beside her bed. "You stayed." She whispered, surprised, but there was happiness in her eyes which I could not explain. I lashed out on her after what she had confessed. How could she still want me to be with her? "Please. Do not punish Niklaus for my sin. I did not mean for any of this to happen. It was a mistake. I never wanted…" She started talking really fast and I could see the chest pains starting. I placed my hand on her face and she stopped talking, looking at me intensely. "If you wish to get better, you need to rest." "Tis cannot wait. We need to speak about our son now. He is your son, Mikael. You raised him. He is yours."

I didn't know how to feel about her words. Was Niklaus really my son? Out of all of my children, I noticed he was the only one with such potential talent to become even better than I was in the games. And right now, I realize why that was possible. He was not my blood. He was Ansel's blood, the blood of my former frenemy, the blood of a man who has always had certain talents, for which women appreciated him. All I had, to earn the respect of my society, was the title of Victor in the Hunger Games. I was appreciated for brutally managing to kill the last tribute alive so I could remain the only one. No one knew in fact, that I was a coward once. I was hiding from others, preventing any danger to come to me, preventing myself from facing any other tributes, in hopes that I would reach the final and only then would I perform the final attack which would lead me to greatness. Ansel had it all without ever participating in the games. I had won Esther's heart and she took me as her husband. Then, I felt pride in myself, knowing that I had won the woman Ansel always wanted. But that was not the case, and he had managed to get her from me. He took her from me when we were still married.

"Mikael, please." She whispered and our eyes met again as I thought about what I was going to do. I had no idea how I felt at the moment about this boy I was supposed to call a son. "Niklaus knew all along how tough you were but he has never stopped seeking your love and appreciation. I know that is why he has been training so hard for these games, to please you. He is your son, even if he does not have your genes." My eyes closed the moment I heard the word "genes". I couldn't possibly know how to feel about that. "Niklaus…" "He is yours, Mikael." She repeated before I had a chance to finish my sentence. My eyes opened and I saw desperation in hers. "Niklaus and the rest of our children have been given a serum of protection from President Snow." I could see her eyes light up as she whispered, "What serum?" "I have been loyal to the Capitol for so many years…they have decided to save my children and declare them the victors." "That is great…" she said softly as the doctor came inside and turned on the television to the games and sighed. "What has happened?" I asked him.

"Apparently, that pregnant girl from District 1 ate some poisonous berries and died, the child with her." I gasped and Esther shrieked, "Katherine? Elijah's baby? Oh no…but she hasn't taken…?" I shook my head. "If she had taken the serum, she wouldn't have died. Apparently not." "Oh my poor Elijah, he must be heartbroken." Esther whimpered as she started crying. "I shall speak to President Snow about this. The Mikaelson heir has been lost." The doctor frowned at me and said, "You don't know?" "Know what?" I snapped at him. What more was there to know? After the revelation about Niklaus…the loss of Katherine and the baby…what else was there? "This Katherine Pierce was not carrying your son's child, sir." "What?!" Esther and I exclaimed at the same time. "It was revealed by your other son, Kol. He told his brother yesterday and we saw it on television." "What did Kol say?" I demanded to know. "That the child Katherine Pierce was carrying was Stefan Salvatore's child. The Pierce contract with the Capitol…I am sure you must be aware of that." "Of course." Esther whispered.

Once the doctor left, Esther turned towards me and whispered, "Elijah will not make it. He loved Katherine very much. She was the love of his life. He cannot love another." "Marriage is not about love in our district, Esther." I reminded her. "It is not a law…" "It better become a law. That way you make sure you do not get your heart broken by the one you love." I looked at her meaningfully when I said that and I saw her eyes brimming with tears. "Mikael, please forgive me. And forgive my son, our son, Niklaus. He…" "Does he know?" I snapped at her and she nodded. "I sent him a letter explaining everything. I never got a chance to speak to him after that. I don't know what he is feeling. I don't know anything." "Do my sons and my daughter know?" Esther shook her head. "I don't think he has told them yet." "And he better not. Now is not the time to be thinking about this. I want them all to come home." She looked at me, hopefully. "All of them?"

I sat back down on the chair and looked at her in the eyes. "Let me make this absolutely clear to you, Esther. I have not forgiven you for being unfaithful to me. I don't believe I have it in my heart to forgive you. Such a betrayal…you would have suffered greatly at the moment if you weren't already ill and if I didn't care for you still. Rebekah, Elijah and Kol are not to find out about this. No one will find out of this shame. I will have no one reveal to the world that the son I had praised for so long is not my flesh and blood. Do you understand me?" "You will punish him." She whispered to me. It was not even a question. She knew. I had always had the urge to beat Niklaus as a child, in hopes that he would work harder, to become the best in this family. He has succeeded, except that he was not his son, or his family. "You deserve to be punished for your sin, not him. But I shall no longer be able to look at him the same way. He has a mother, but he has lost both of his fathers." I told her and she whispered, "No, please, Mikael. If I get even more ill…he will need you. Don't abandon him, please. You raised him. He loves you."

"Don't!" I barked at her and she stopped talking, just as the doctors came back in to take her temperature. I looked back at the television but it was not showing the last few tributes I was interested in seeing. Ten were left. Rebekah…my eyes widened when an image popped up, of my daughter, talking and walking with the boy from District 11. I growled and turned away, knowing this was unlike my daughter. She wanted to win the games and she would kill anyone in her way. This boy must be playing her. Why wouldn't she kill him as she was supposed to? And where were my other sons? The other tributes? Not knowing anything about them, urged me to make a phone call to the Capitol to demand what was going on out there. Esther yelped in pain and I looked back at her. Her eyes met mine and I could once again see her pain. But as before, her pain could not match mine. Niklaus, Katherine, the fake child, everything was lost for me. Everything I had known turned out to be a lie. Turning around, I stormed out.

**District 1: Kol Mikaelson**

**Fourth Day in the Games**

I watched as Elijah strutted out of the cave, heading directly to the place I knew he buried her. Niklaus went with him and the guy Kaleb left the cave to hunt. It was just me and the girls. I smirked at the girl from 12, Hayley and realized why Niklaus was so into her. She was exactly the type he was into, the gorgeous, witty, sassy, smart and cunning. She also had a look of innocence she used as a weapon in need but in reality, I could tell that she was not like that at all. She was crouched next to Camille and the two of them were sharing the breakfast bread and meat. Little Davina was sitting by herself. I couldn't help myself and I went over to her, sitting down and putting an arm around her to feel her skin and soft hair. She pushed me away at once. "Stop it, Kol!" she snapped at me.

"You are lucky that we are not being filmed here. I would have not appreciated such a rejection to go on television." I told her and she smirked. "Full of yourself, aren't you? I am not interested." "You didn't say the same thing before we entered the games, darling." "We were having some fun. That was all that it was." "Ouch. You really love hurting my feelings, don't you?" "I have met a lot of guys like you in my past so I know really well what it's like to be seduced by someone like you. You and your family are keeping me with you against my own will." "We are protecting you. There's a big difference there, sweetheart." "I am sure you like to think that." I sighed and stayed quiet for a moment, admiring the way she slowly bit into her own bread and started eating. My stomach growled but I chose not to say anything. Davina looked over at me for a moment before she split the loaf of bread and handed me half.

"Keep it." I snapped at her and turned away from her as she groaned. "You need to eat to keep your strength." She informed me and I smirked. "I don't know why you really care. You wanted to be away from me, didn't you?" I could see her getting an upset look on her face. I sighed and took the bread from her and bit into it. I almost coughed it up the moment I heard her ask, "Who was Elena?" I looked over at her and I could see that she was being serious in asking me. "Klaus spoke about her when he mentioned you and me…who was she?" she added and I could see there was a slight blush on her cheeks when she looked at me. "She was the woman I wanted to be with for a very long time, but she betrayed me. She gave me hope for years that something could happen between us and it never did. She lied to me, gave into passion with a rich Salvatore brother of the Capitol in order to please her family and get money for getting pregnant with a Salvatore heir. Katherine was the same."

"You really loved her?" she asked me after a while. I smiled at her when I saw her cheeks getting redder by the second. After finishing my bread, I moved closer to her and wrapped my arm around her, pulling her closer to my body and whispered, "I did love her, but if there is one thing I can't tolerate is betrayal, darling, which is why I am more than ready to move on and forget about her." "Move on?" she asked me and I leaned forward and pressed a kiss on her cheek. "Yes, move on." She blushed harder as she looked away from my eyes and whispered, "You really think that I will just accept you after what you did to me?" "My family would have killed you if I had not shown my interest in you, sweet Davina. Think about that." "Am I supposed to be grateful to you or something, because that is just sick, even from you?" I took her hand in mine and made her look at me. "No. You are supposed to stop denying what we have between us." Hearing that, made her smile as she asked, "And what exactly do we have between us?" I leaned forward with a grin and pressed my lips to her soft and rosy ones.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Fourth Day in the Games**

Elijah was still mourning when I was looking at him. It made my heart break into a million pieces as I was not used to seeing my brother in that state. Shaking my head, I started feeling empty for a moment, thinking of how much of a failure I had become in this family. I suddenly felt her wrap her arms around me and it made me smile on the inside. "Are you sure about this, little wolf?" I whispered, turning around and cupping her cheek as she looked at me adoringly. "I am not ashamed of my feelings for you. I am tired of hiding. Hold me." I wrapped my arms around her and she rested her head against my chest, breathing in and out. "I talked to Cami, about the plan. I think it can still work." "Hayley…we have only two more tributes which need to be eliminated and then it will just be us." She pulled back, looked at me for a moment before nodding.

"And I strongly suggest that you accept that shot. You will not be giving the Capitol the satisfaction. It is for your own good so you can get out of here." "Klaus, that syringe was not sent for me. It was sent for your family and I am starting to think that the extra shot was for Katherine and the baby. She wouldn't have died if she had taken it, but you took it before her." I shook my head at once. "No, love. Elijah would not let her take this cure. He believed it to be dangerous for the child so she didn't. I took it then because I knew that there is one girl that I desperately want to save and to take her home with me because of how I feel about her." I could tell that my words were having a huge effect on her and she smiled, as she saw Camille move out of the cave and went straight to Elijah, comforting him with soft touches. "She can make him happy." She whispered and I looked back at the pairing, nodding with a smile. "Yes. Their attraction for one another is unquestionable. But I am sure that Elijah does not wish to move on that quickly after such a terrible loss. All with time, love. All with time." I repeated and pressed a kiss on her lips. She pulled back almost at once and whispered, "Your father."

I pulled her back to me and said, "I am not ashamed of this either, little wolf. Let them all watch." I kissed her again and this time, she accepted it, cupping my cheeks with her own hands and as her tongue parted my lips, I felt aroused. I wanted to make her mine again as I had the other day. A night in that cave like no other. I couldn't wait for us to leave. "Please, take the shot, Hayley." I told her again as we pulled back from our kiss. "That shot will guarantee that you will leave this place. If you do not administer it…" "What about Camille? What about Davina and Kaleb?" she asked me. Before I could answer, I could hear from the distance a cry, "NIK!" Turning, I could see Rebekah coming towards us, with one of the tributes left alive, the African American one from District 11. Why hadn't Rebekah killed him?

"What is the meaning of this, Rebekah?" I asked her, not looking at the man next to her, as I pulled Hayley closer to me. Rebekah looked in between us and frowned a little as she whispered, "You have gone to her after all, haven't you, Nik? This is what this was all about? The girl who liked?" "It's far different this time, sister. Answer my question. Who is he and why is he here?" I could see her biting her lip and before we knew it, she had launched into her storytelling of how she knew this man. My eyes were wide, shocked by the news. "You left the district when you were a child? You met this man? Friends?" I mumbled, barely being able to believe that my own sister could be this foolish. "Nik, please…I am not going to kill him and neither of you are. I know him…and he has good intentions to survive. Nothing is going to happen to him." "So are you suggesting that we are down to one tribute that needs to be eliminated?" "Yes." Rebekah snapped at me.

She looked at Elijah, who was being embraced by Camille. "What happened to him?" she asked. "Ah, of course. You were not here. We have found Katerina yesterday…dead." "Dead? What? How is that possible?" "She ate some berries, poisonous ones which took her life." "That's awful." She commented and I smirked. "I am sure you feel that way, sister." "She was a bitch all her life and she lied to my brother about that child being his. But she was still the woman he loved dearly and I don't wish that kind of pain on anyone, especially not Elijah. I hope he recovers. Seems like he is in good hands." I turned towards the man next to her and whispered, "You have a name?" "It's Marcel." He said to me, firmly and I nodded. "Very well. If my sister wishes to keep you with us, she may. Although I am not sure how long you will survive here." Hayley was still looking uncomfortable when I saw her. I touched her shoulder and she looked at me. "Camille, Davina and Kaleb would be left defenseless."

"Love, there is nothing I can do. There is not enough for all of us." "You can't just do this to them. Kaleb means well. He is a good man and Davina and Camille are both my friends. Are you telling me that they are never going to get out of here because they don't have that salvation shot? If that's the case, I am not taking it either, Klaus, I'm sorry." My heart stopped when I heard it. It seemed to be her final decision. I grabbed her arm and pulled her to me. "Please, do not do this, little wolf." "You can't make me." "We are in the arena. If I am strong enough, I can do whatever the bloody hell I want with you!" I yelled out, making everyone else look at me, at the strength and power of my words. Hayley was looking at me shocked, whispering, "Is that what Mikael has taught you?" I couldn't respond. I kept looking at her until I could hear a certain bell. "Sponsors!" Rebekah exclaimed and pointed at the parachute which landed before us with the box. Hayley stepped away from me, and Rebekah crouched next to her, to check what was happening. It was a letter that came for the little wolf with the same supplies.

_I have broken a lot of rules sending you this letter, Hayley, so I hope you will appreciate the effort. I am sorry about Josh, but I have never been happier to know that you are still alive and well. I have been watching you the best I could. I have to admit that the cave seems to be a good idea for private conversations. _

_Take a little advice from me and take the shot that is to be administered to yet another person. In the games, no matter the heartbreak and loss, you must think about yourself and about your future. You do want to see your mother, Jake and Lucy again, don't you? Take the shot and stay close to your friends. You have done very well so far and I cannot wait to see you home. _

_The revolution has begun and the Capitol is getting worried. If you take the shot, there is no chance that they are going to leave you. Going home right now is not an option. The games have been interrupted on television and surprisingly enough, the Districts 1 and 2 are the ones who are protesting against the Capitol. Danger is close and it looks like your plan to stop the games will no longer be necessary ;) _

_Keep yourself safe. I will be waiting for you to come home._

_Kieran_

**A/N: Stopping here and leave it to you to guess what will happen in the next chapter where we will have Klaus receive a letter from someone too. Guess who ;) Hayley will make her final decision regarding the shot and I think you know what she is going to choose. One more tribute to kill. But what will happen to the ones who have not administered the shot? Camille, Davina, Kaleb and Marcel's fate will be decided, but the Capitol is not as strong as before.**

**Thank you for reading and please review!**


	21. Immediate Action

**In the previous chapter, Rebekah returned to her group with Marcel at her side, in order for her family to save him. Klaus and Hayley shared heartfelt moments about the future they want alongside one another, as a disturbed Hayley contemplated about taking the shot or not. Kol and Davina shared their feelings for one another as Camille helped Elijah cope with Katherine's betrayal and death. Mikael revealed his last feelings to Esther about having Niklaus as his son. Finally, Kieran contacted Hayley, informing her with what has been happening with the new revolution in the districts, and gave her advice.**

**This chapter, Klaus receives a surprising letter from the one he feared the most, allowing only Hayley to read it with him, peacefully. Kol and Davina no longer hide their relationship from the cameras, determining Kaleb to commit an act of bravery to prove himself worthy of winning the girl's heart. This results into an absolute failure. As the last enemy is defeated, Marcel confesses something to Rebekah which breaks her heart. With the repulsive districts at power, the empire of President Snow is close to reaching its end. With the syringe in her hands, Hayley makes her decision. At last, Mikael and Esther share their own moment at the medical center, which will empower them to do the right thing for their children. **

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**Fourth Day in the Games**

After Hayley's letter has been read by us all, we have decided to stick together until the moment came for us to attack the last tribute set out to destroy us, Thierry, Davina's cruel partner from District 3. I would often sit for hours that day and watch my brother sit in the exact spot where he had buried Katherine the other day. Camille would bring him food and water, in case he needed it. Elijah had to move on in order to protect us all. He was supposed to be the noble one, the brave one, the oldest to guide his siblings through the darkness. But as I started walking round our camp and watched each and every one of the members of our team, I could see the way they were looking at me. They were depending on me. The Capitol was now in danger once again and the districts were not backing out this time. T had gone for far too long and as much as I hated to admit it, I realized that the Capitol has been treating the poorer districts unfairly. Hayley knew better of course.

She was sitting in the grass, looking over the letter that has been sent to her. I went over to her, took a seat and started kissing her neck softly, hoping that she would find relaxation and support in my arms. She sighed and leaned her head back on my shoulder, closing her eyes, as my lips continued to press gentle kisses on her neck. "You love distracting me, don't you?" she asked me in a whisper and I smiled, continuing to press gentle kisses. "Whether you choose to believe it or not, Hayley, I adore you and I want you to be happy with me. I am trying to offer you comfort…" "I graciously accept your comfort but you don't have to do that, you know?" She ran her fingers over my face, and through her words, she managed to make me frown, as I pulled her closer to me and finally into my lap. Her eyes softened as I asked her, "What do you mean by that? Little wolf…I love you." I told her convincingly and she smiled, knowing how difficult it had been for me to say those profound words to her. But she was my little wolf and it was up to me to protect her here.

"What happens when we get back? There will be a war, Klaus. We won't stand a chance, like we did here." She told me and leaned her forehead on mine. I took a deep breath and replied, "We will stand a chance, because we are together. If we stay united when we return…" "Only the people who have the shots taken will return, Klaus. I am beginning to understand that, and the reason why Kieran is pushing me to take it." I looked at her for a moment before bringing her palm to my lips and I murmured, "You don't have to do this. I am not forcing you, love. But you know how much I want you to take it, just to be sure that you leave this place with me." She caressed my cheek again and whispered, "Yes, I know. I am thinking about this. I promise you that I will make a final decision soon." She told me and looked over the letter again. "That letter really influences your decisions, doesn't it?" I asked her. "It's from Kieran, my mentor." "He means a lot to you?" "Just as much as my brother and my sister mean to me." "What about your mother?" I asked her and I wanted to shut my mouth at once. She showed no reaction. I nuzzled my head in her neck and kissed her ear lobe before whispering, "Forgive me. I didn't mean to." She smiled and shook her head, looking over the letter. I diverted my eyes towards it as well.

_I have broken a lot of rules sending you this letter, Hayley, so I hope you will appreciate the effort. I am sorry about Josh, but I have never been happier to know that you are still alive and well. I have been watching you the best I could. I have to admit that the cave seems to be a good idea for private conversations. _

_Take a little advice from me and take the shot that is to be administered to yet another person. In the games, no matter the heartbreak and loss, you must think about yourself and about your future. You do want to see your mother, Jake and Lucy again, don't you? Take the shot and stay close to your friends. You have done very well so far and I cannot wait to see you home. _

_The revolution has begun and the Capitol is getting worried. If you take the shot, there is no chance that they are going to leave you. Going home right now is not an option. The games have been interrupted on television and surprisingly enough, the Districts 1 and 2 are the ones who are protesting against the Capitol. Danger is close and it looks like your plan to stop the games will no longer be necessary ;) _

_Keep yourself safe. I will be waiting for you to come home._

_Kieran_

"He wants what is best for me, and if he wants me to take that shot, then I will." Hayley told me. I placed my hand over my heart, whispering, "It took all my willpower to make you consider this choice, but it only took a letter from you mentor to convince you. I am hurt, little wolf." Hearing that, I could hear her soft laughter. She leaned over and pressed a kiss on my lips, massaging her tongue with mine softly, making me feel in pure bliss. I just knew that the people who were still watching the games on television were enjoying this. Some more than others. I groaned, imagining the shrieks Caroline would have let out of her, watching me and Hayley together. I couldn't care less. I was in love. I felt in love for the first time in my life, and there was something about Hayley Marshall which only made me want to exploit her even more. I wanted to know her life. I wanted to know everything about her.

She pulled out of the kiss and I cupped her cheek. "Would you allow me to come with you to District 12 in order to see your family?" The moment I asked her, I could see her blushing. "Why would you want that?" "I told you that I wish to marry you. I want to know your family, if that is going to happen. Even your mother." I could see a little blue appearing on her face and she looked sick at the mention of her mother. "Have I said something wrong?" "Well, you've said enough in front of the cameras." "Let people know that I love you and that I am going to make you my wife. I don't care about their opinions." "You are from District 2. You should care. Your family is sophisticated, probably the most sophisticated in all of Panem and you want to joke around about this. I don't think it's a good idea. It's about your reputation and being seen with someone like me…it's not a deal breaker especially where your father is concerned." "He is not my…" I stopped myself before I could say anything and Hayley could see that she was just as frightened that I was going to spill something. I stood up and grabbed a hold of her hands, placing them in mine, and taking her inside the cave. "What's going on?" she asked me, confused, still holding the letter in her hands. "I just want to be able to talk to you freely. I can't do that with my siblings around and with the cameras pointing towards us every minute of every day."

"You know that is not right. You should be able to talk to your siblings. You told me that you and Rebekah were so close. What happens now? Why can't you go talk to her about Mikael?" she asked me and I shook my head, stubbornly. "I can't talk to her like that and you know it." "Why not? Do you think that she will not understand?" "I know that she will not understand. All my life, I thought that we came from the same parents but it turned out to be a lie. Mikael is not my father and if he finds out, he is going to use Rebekah to torture me because he knows how much I care about her." "I don't think he would be that cruel to you, Klaus. He raised you." Hayley reminded me. "Blood is important to him." She touched me and shook her head. "No. What do I have to do to prove to you that it's not true?" "Say you will marry me." I smirked when I saw the look on her face. "You're pushing this on me?" she asked and wrapped her hands around my neck. "I cannot wait. Please…marry me. Say you will." I pressed my forehead on hers and she opened her mouth to respond when there was a yell from outside. "NIK!"

Hayley and I immediately came out of the cave to see that there was another package which has been sent to us. "It's another letter." Rebekah pointed it out to me and I immediately took it, looking over at Hayley. "Do you believe this is from Kieran once again?" Rebekah searched through the bag and pulled out a couple of matches and a blanket. "I don't think so. Kieran usually sends soup or medicine from what I've seen." My sister told me. Hayley picked up the note and opened it, looking through it briefly. Then, she immediately closed it and handed it to me, whispering, "It's from your father." My heart started beating rapidly through my chest. "Is it from Father?" Rebekah barged into our conversation, with excitement on her face. I frowned at her and whispered, "It is addressed to me, so I shall read it." I took Hayley's hand and the two of us headed back to the cave, where we knew we would not be watched. "You shouldn't be this mean to her. She was just curious." Hayley pointed out. "That is not the reason why I snapped at her, little wolf. Have you forgotten that she has brought onto us a man from District 11?" She crossed her hands over her chest. "So what's wrong with that?"

"Rebekah is way out of his league." "Is that so? I suppose then you are way out of my league as well. Districts 11 and 12 are the poorest in all of Panem, or have you forgotten that? Then, I suppose I should decline your proposal." I immediately stood up and grabbed her hands harshly, hissing, "Please, do not do this, love. I do not want to fight with you. What we have between us is something far different and more special than you could possibly imagine, because I have never fallen in love before, Hayley. It is you…the woman I want in my life. I have even offered to visit your home because I hold respect for it." "Before you met me, you didn't." "I was a narcissistic, paranoid and arrogant fool before I met you. You bring out a side of me I have not seen in myself for a very long time." "You weren't like this before?" she asked me, amazed. "I was kind and compassionate once, but that was before all of this happened. This was in the past. I can promise you…" She pressed her finger on my lips to stop me from talking. "Let's not talk about this any longer, okay?" "But I wish to explain…" "There is nothing to explain. I just want you to know that our relationship is no different than your sister's relationship with Marcel. Let her be happy with him if he is what she wants." "Perhaps I can try to accept that." She kissed me again and replied, "Good. Now read your father's letter." I took a seat on the ground and patted a hand on my lap, bringing her down to sit next to me. "I want you to read it with me." "Okay."

_Niklaus,_

_Rest assured, knowing that this letter has not been opened or tampered with, as I have sent it directly from an endangered Capitol._

_I have shared with your mother some unexpected experiences with your mother for the past couple of days in which she has shared horrifying secrets with me. She is at a medical center at the moment, trying to recover. I am alongside her, because she is the mother of three of my children…but she is also your mother. She has informed me of her betrayal during my marriage_ _to her, and I have finally managed to figure out the rest. She has also informed me that you know the truth about yourself. _

_It is true that after your brother Finn was lost at birth, I could not cope with the grief. I pushed your mother away and I was trying to deal with the pain the best way I could. Finally, I was pushed by my ambitions to force Esther to try again, and we have tried, resulting in the birth of Elijah, but the passion and romantic experiences were no longer there, and were soon forgotten. Because of my foolishness to push her away, Esther has fallen into the hands of my long lost partner, Ansel. An affair which lasted for a short period of time, as I understand it, due to your mother's guilt…but this affair resulted in your birth. I can remember the day your mother came to me and asked me for another child after Elijah. I wanted more heirs so I agreed for our consummation, but I could understand that there was something wrong with her lack of patience. Now, it all fits, and in a couple of months, you were finally born. You reignited the spart between me and Esther, which resulted in the birth of Kol and then Rebekah…_

_Knowing that she has been with another man during our marriage pains me, but not as much as it pains me that you, the son I have raised from a small child for such a long time…you are not my son of blood. You are not the one I thought would grow up to be the great leader of the Mikaelson family. Seeing as that is true…I can no longer ask anything from you. You are to return home safely with the others, and you will be passed onto your mother, without having a connection to me whatsoever. Do not believe that I was blind all this time, boy! I have seen the hatred with which you looked at me the moment I told you to volunteer in the games. You have looked at me with hatred ever since I have broken off the marriage to your mother and separated you from Elijah and Kol. I understand now that was a mistake, which is why I have made the decision to send all of you to live with your mother from now on. You are all mature to make your own decisions, without me in your life. _

_It is time to move on, but do not doubt for a moment that I have never shown care for you, Niklaus, that I have never loved you. Seeing you now…would be seeing proof of your mother's betrayal and I cannot live with that. Help Elijah, Kol and Rebekah find their way back home. It is no longer safe here for us. The Capitol is no longer going to be at power. _

I finished reading the letter, feeling a lump in my throat, holding back tears as Hayley sighed and folded the letter up, pushing it in the inside of my jacket. "It's horrible, but it can give you a break from him and him from you. Do not worry about this now. I am sure that he is in shock and through his words, I can see that he is deeply hurt about you not being his biological son. He wished you were. When he comes around, he will be at your mother's doorstep, demanding to be with you for a couple of moments. He has always loved you, Klaus." Hayley told me and brushed away the few tears which have dripped on my face. "He would have had the decency to say all of this to my face." I snapped and she shook her head, holding me tightly and pressing a kiss on my neck. I held her just as tightly, knowing that I would break if I were to let go of her. Tears rolled off my face, as I realized the last thing Mikael had told me. The Capitol will soon be left without any power. The Hunger Games would soon end.

**District 2: Rebekah Mikaelson**

**Fourth Day in the Games**

We seemed to have caught up with one another's lives very quickly. It was quicker than I could imagine. Marcel smiled at me constantly, making me blush as I handed over fresh nectar and other fruits which we could find in the woods. "You're just as beautiful as I remember you being." "Is that really the next step in our friendship? You're going to start to flirt?" I asked him and popped a slice of apple in my mouth, munching on it. Marcel nodded and we both leaned back against the tree, as I caught him holding my hand. "I really want this to work, but…" He couldn't find his words and he wouldn't finish. "What is the problem, Marcel?" I asked him, curious about what he was going to say. "It was different when we were kids. It was just a friendship." "And now you're worried we can be more?" I asked, my heart beating faster. "We can, but it's not going to be easy." "Why? You can come home with me." I suggested and he pulled his hand away from mine, making me feel sorry for what I said.

"What is it?" I asked him. He closed his eyes and whispered, "You think that it is really simple." "It is." "No, it is not, Rebekah. I was not raised in the fame and fortune you were. Things were different for me." "How different?" "You saw how different. We work like slaves all our lives. We are not respected and we are not given the proper nourishment to survive. I am not going to abandon my people for yours." "I am not asking you to. I just…" He looked at me for a moment and grabbed my hand again, making me look at him with hope in my eyes. "You really want something between us?" "Marcel, you can't deny that in a few hours since I brought you here…" "I have managed to receive dirty looks from all of your brothers." I giggled and shook my head. "That was not what I was going to say. I just wanted you to realize for one moment that we connected…we feel something can happen between us if we give it a chance."

"And how do you suppose we do that, Rebekah? We have our separate districts. That is not going to change." He told me. I stayed silent for a moment, looking disappointed because I knew deep down that he was right in what he was saying. We were doomed to remain this way. He could not come with me and I could not go with him. "We must get of here first and then we will see." I promised him, just as I saw Niklaus and Hayley leave the cave. Rolling my eyes, I stood up and faced my brother. "What did Father say? Stop hiding." "You will know everything when the time is right, Rebekah. First we must get out of here and as I understand it from Father…the Capitol is to be brought down." My mouth dropped in shock. "What? What are you talking about? What is going to happen to it?" "Snow and his followers will no longer be governing. The Hunger Games are soon going to end for good." Hayley added.

I looked at her for a moment and said, "I suppose you had a chance to read the letter alongside my brother." I saw Nik put his arm around her, defensively and I smiled. "Relax, Nik. I will play nice with her. I have to thank her anyway, for bringing back the brother I knew you always were. The kind of brother I know is going to respect my decisions and is not going to question my choice in men. If I want to be with someone, I am going to be with him." I made a fair point and I could see Nik, staring at Marcel behind me. "What makes you think that the two of you stand a chance together?" he asked me. "It's no different from you and Hayley. We will find a way around this." Niklaus sighed and nodded towards me. "Have at it, sister. I am not stopping you." We watched as Hayley pulled the syringe of her own jacket and pressed it to her skin, shocking my brother at the decision she had accepted to make. She had injected herself with the serum. I watched her and Nik share a happily passionate kiss.

**District 1: Kol Mikaelson**

**Fourth Day in the Games**

Davina was standing there, looking at me as I was practicing my spear fighting. I smirked as I saw her admiring me. I was not wearing a shirt due to the sunlight and I held my spear in my hand as I went over to her and kissed her longingly on the lips. She pulled away and whispered, "I don't want to do this in front of everyone." I frowned and dropped her spear, taking her in my arms and kissing her again, more forcefully, until she would accept it. "Why are you doing this?" she asked the moment I pulled away. I knew exactly why. From the distance, I could see the disgust on Kaleb's face as the boy watched us. I wasn't going to let him take Davina away from me. But her eyes wandered in the direction mine were and when she spotted Kaleb, I could see realization flash before her. "Are you serious? That is why you kiss me? You want to make him jealous?" she asked and pulled away from me at once.

"No, hey, come on! That's not true, darling, and you know it. I hate how he looks at you and I need to show him that you are my girl and no one else's." I said to her and she crossed her hands over her chest. "I am not anyone's girl and I chose to stand with you because I thought that you were different than the rest." "Different how? You have me intrigued now, sweetheart." "I don't think that I am going to say anything anymore." "Why not? Please, do not disappoint me now. I was being a jerk. You know that is who I am." I stepped over and kissed her hand, making her giggle, as she grabbed my back and whispered, "What do we do when this is all over?" "What are you talking about now?" "When this ends…will what we have end too?" "Why would you ask me that?" "Because we have different lives." "Not that different." "It is a difference." I pulled back and looked at her, skeptically. "I am from 1 and you are from 3. I don't think there is much difference." "My district is not appreciated as much as yours is." "Don't be ridiculous."

"I am not ridiculous, Kol. It's too complicated even now with the new revolution out there. People are sacrificing themselves for these games to end." "Why should they end?" "I can't believe you're asking something like this. Your brother is over there, grieving the loss of his former lover who was pregnant." "She was a liar. She tricked my brother into believing that baby was his, when she was the one who cheated on him for some stupid bet she and her sisters had with the Capitol. I am glad they are all out of our lives." "Don't be this mean. Elijah is suffering." Davina told me and I looked back at the place from where Elijah had not moved for a long time. Camille had not left his side, talking to him from time to time and God knows if he was even listening to her there or not. My attention turned back to Davina, who was looking soft and doe-eyed at me, making me smile. "I guess I do happen to feel sorry for my brother. But I am not sorry for what I said about Katerina Petrova." Davina finally nodded and her attention turned to Kaleb. I couldn't help but growl a little but she stopped me and looked panicky. "I think he saw someone or something." Nik and Rebekah were not paying attention to anything, being busy with their lovers. Kaleb ran over to us and took Davina's hands in his.

"There is someone there. I believe it's the last tribute to be eliminated." He said and I immediately picked up a spear and a sword, showing my muscles at this guy. "You let me handle this one." Before Davina could stop him, Kaleb had taken a small knife from the ground and ran after the tribute from District 3, who was Thierry. "KALEB, DON'T!" Davina yelled out as Thierry came out of the bushes with a bow and arrows in his hands. She turned over to me and whispered, "You have no idea how dangerous he is. I have watched him practice. He has been my partner in training." I could see clearly that Kaleb was heading for danger. "Help him please!" Davina begged me and seeing the look in her eyes, I immediately ran after Kaleb, as the others just began to notice that the tribute we have been looking forward to eliminating was standing right in front of us. I wanted to save this guy, no matter how much I hated him. I wanted to do the right thing for once in my life and save this guy for the girl I loved. The arrow from Thierry's bow launched itself before my eyes and I could hear Davina's piercing scream as it hit Kaleb directly in his heart, sending him to the ground.

The guy didn't have time to enjoy his kill, because at that moment, I slashed his head from his shoulders, using my sword, blood pouring out of him as the body dropped dead to the ground. I looked down in horror at the two tributes who were now gone. The rest had come over and take a look as Davina crouched down next to Kaleb in tears. The canons sounded for both Kaleb and for Thierry. I could feel a hand on my shoulder and I turned around to face Nik, who was looking at me proudly. "You got us out of this mess sooner than you thought. Congratulations." I smirked at him as we could hear the Gamemakers announcing from above the arena. _"As per the wishes of Mikael Mikaelson, to whom the Capitol owes him for his favors, you are all to be released of the games, as the betrayal of the districts against our nation has once again caught fire!"_ The Main Gamemakers announced. We looked up in the sky as we heard the helicopter arrive. He landed before us with a couple of Gamemakers, ready to take us to the Capitol. Elijah and Camille were joining us. I pulled Davina into my arms, as she would not stop crying. "Hush; darling…we must get out of here." She decided to listen to me and we embarked on the helicopter, ready to head back home.

**District 2: Mikael Mikaelson**

**The End of the Games**

As Esther was laid down on her bed in the medical center, I was watching the screen and saw the look on my sons' faces when the helicopter dropped down to greet them. I had them take home all the survivors my children were so clearly fond of. I sat down on the chair and at once, I could feel Esther's hand on min and I looked at her, skeptically as she smiled at me. "Those are our children and you saved them." I growled and whispered, "They had all betrayed me. Rebekah is interested in a poor boy from 11; Kol is renouncing his claim on a Pierce sister in order to remain with a girl he just met, as for Elijah…" "Elijah has lost a lot. I like this Camille girl. She can bring light and happiness in his life again after Katherine." I remained silent and pulled my hand away from hers, feeling the disappointment rise in her.

"Mikael, you have not said a word about Niklaus." "What is there left to say about him? He is not my son and you have made that abundantly clear. I had sent him a letter and I knew he received it." Esther suddenly got up and I could see through the machines that her heart was now beating at a fast pace. I immediately pushed her back down on the bed as she asked, with fear in her eyes, "What did you say to him?" I pulled back and decided to tell her the truth. "I told him the truth about how I feel about this little change in our family. It is a huge change, and a change I will no longer be able to live with. He is your son, but he is not my son by blood. I warned him that no one is to know about this. I will not be wrecking my reputation for this boy and I am warning you too. As far as the world is concerned, he is my son. He will be living with you from now on, as will the rest of our children." I could see the shock written all over her face as I said that. "Wait! What are you talking about? You want them all to live with me?" I looked unaffected by this and whispered, "Yes." "Mikael, you can't do this. You can't shut yourself from the world like this. Niklaus may not be your biological son but the rest are. Are you going to kick Rebekah out of your life like that? You have always held special love and care for her."

"Of course I have. She is my only daughter and she will remain to be my daughter, but I do not wish to see her disgrace the family name by getting involved romantically with someone from District 11. I will not allow that to happen. If it does, and she and Kol decide that it would be best to shame me, I shall shame them publicly and disown them." I stood up from the chair and covered my forehead with my hand. Esther coughed for a moment before whispering, "Please don't do this. Don't punish Niklaus and the rest because…" "IF YOU HAD NOT SLEPT WITH THAT FONEY, NONE OF THIS WOULD HAVE HAPPENED!" I yelled out at her before I could stop myself. Tears were dripping down her cheeks as she whispered, "I know I betrayed you, and I left you years ago because I couldn't live with that betrayal. I could barely look at you, knowing that I was hiding such an important secret about our son. Niklaus has always been your best boy. Don't give up on him because of me, Mikael. I beg you. He loves you as a father. He may be angered and shocked but he is angered at me, not at you. He loves you. I love you." She said, which made my eyes widen.

I stepped closer to her and I could see the fear in her eyes once again, as she pursed her lips. "What did you say?" I asked her. She sighed and whispered, "I am not going to deny this. My love for you remained even after all of these years which have passed. I have always hoped that I would find a way to relieved myself of this pain, to tell you and Niklaus the truth, after which we would all be a family again, as we used to." I couldn't believe the words that were coming out of her mouth. "You left me because you felt guilty for your mistakes? But you had no problem leaving your bastard son with me." "Mikael, do not call him that." "He is what he is and he should get used to it." "You have adopted him. He is not a bastard." "I believed he was my son all this time. I did not adopt him, Esther." "But you raised him." "This is why you did leave Niklaus with me, didn't you? You wanted me to get close to him. You wanted me to start caring for this boy more than I let on." "Yes, I did. I left you with Niklaus and Rebekah for various reasons. I knew Rebekah would be the one person who would calm your heart when needed and Niklaus…he was always your favorite, your number one. I wanted you to be with him, to hug him when needed, and he would take care of you."

"You took advantage…" "I loved you still and I wanted you to be happy, Mikael. I knew Niklaus and Rebekah would make you happy." My eyes showed nothing but shock as I stepped over to her and held her hand in mine, looking at her deep in the eyes. "You did this to us, to our family, you ruined us." "What was I to do, Mikael? Stay with you knowing that I have done something so terrible you would never forgive? I finally knew I had to let you go." "You ruined me the moment you left with two of my sons. I LOVED YOU…I GAVE YOU EVERYTHING! YOU WERE MY WIFE!" I raised my voice again. She remained silent for a couple of minutes. She gave me time to think about what she said. She still loved me, after everything and I knew I still loved this woman even after she told me her darkest secrets at a very inappropriate time. I looked back at the screen and noticed them all in the helicopter. "They are not the children I have raised and you are not the woman I once loved. Take them and leave me alone." I finally whispered and left the room, but hearing her call out my name. I wouldn't turn back now. I couldn't.

**A/N: The next chapter is going to be the last one, in which we will explore the different relationships of this story and how the tributes which have survived finally go back home to their families. We will see what will happen to Klaus and Hayley and how their love will conquer everything else in Panem. Will the Hunger Games truly end after the attack on the Capitol? Will Mikael accept Niklaus back into his life?**

**Thank you for reading and please leave me reviews!**


	22. Parting Ways For A Future

**Previously in the story, Klaus received a letter from Mikael, shocking him of his decision not to be a father to him, as Hayley's comfort was all he wanted. Rebekah and Marcel were thinking about an impossible future together, as Kol was showing his last jealousy at the moments between Davina and Kaleb. With Klaus' support, Hayley decided to accept the syringe and the shot against death in order to survive, as the Capitol Empire was defeated. Kaleb's death, resulted in the salvation of his comrades, as Mikael shared with Esther how he had saved them all from hunger and despair.**

**In this final chapter of the story, Hayley reunites with Kieran, Effie and Rona, as they share thoughts on the end of President Snow's reign. Parting ways, Klaus and his siblings return home, as they finally learn the truth about their half-brother. With the Mikaelson siblings now living with Esther, Rebekah reveals her love for Marcel to her mother. Elijah and Camille plan a future together, as he is determined to move on from the pain Katherine caused him in his life. Kol and Davina have secret meetings, as the new government decides some changes to be made for all districts. Hayley finally returns home to her mother and her siblings, discovering something incredible with Annabelle's help. With Mikael's advice, Klaus makes a decision that will change his life forever.**

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The End of Tragedy**

The moment the helicopter landed, I could finally take a lungful of fresh air. I didn't know what came over me. It was as if all this time, I had been keeping this inside of me. I wanted it out. I wanted to feel different now that I knew that I had kept my promise to Lucy and Jake. I was out of that dreadful arena and I was not going back there. The tributes were supposed to part ways, as the Gamemakers instructed. Each had to go to his mentor. Klaus pulled me in his embrace as I hissed, "Klaus, not here." "The Empire of President Snow has been defeated. I don't really care anymore." He kissed me softly, as the other people from our group peeked at us from time to time. I realized why he was being this impossible. He didn't want to let me go. He didn't want to think about this possibility. He wanted me to be near him, so we would comfort each other, so we would be together and have no one separate us. But like I told him in the games, we led different lives. I cupped his cheeks and gave him one last passionate kiss. "I must go." "I love you." He said almost at once, shocking me.

He, the almighty Niklaus Mikaelson, son of Mikael Mikaelson, in one of the biggest and most powerful families in all of Panem, was telling me that he loves me.I was looking at him, surprised, our foreheads still connected as he breathed in deeply, not realizing the weight of the words which had just tumbled from his mouth. "You know how much I love you." I responded and he grabbed my waist, pulling me to his warm chest. "Then stay with me. Do not go." "I have to get back home. My family needs me, and you must go back too. Your family…you have more problems to deal with and you know it." He looked at me for a moment and then whispered, "The Capitol has been defeated. The rules do not apply. I will come for you, little wolf. You're mine." I had never heard him say such possessive things to me before. He really wanted me to be with him, as if he never had shared something special like this with anyone else in his life. I knew that well…neither have I. "Don't do anything you might regret, Klaus. Go home. If it's meant to be, we'll find our way back to each other." I told him.

Stung by my words of wanting him to let go, he took my hands in his and brought them to his lips. "You will be my wife when the time comes. We will live a wonderful life together, with no wars and no idiotic games. Just us…and the family we will create. A family of our own." His words were so very soothing and my eyes brimmed with tears. For the first time ever, I couldn't believe that I wanted to get back in that arena and relive the moment with him. I wanted to relive the moment he told me his secret about Mikael and the moment he made love to me. I wanted everything back.It was the moment I was realizing that I wanted this life with him. I wanted to be his wife, carry his children, make him happy and let him make me happy. I turned and I could finally see some familiar faces. Kieran, Effie and Rona were all waiting for me with smiles on their faces. I kissed Klaus' cheek and lingered my lips there, whispering, "Don't lose hope. I know I won't." In turn, he kissed my forehead and finally let me go. There was coldness which washed over me, no longer feeling his touch.

The moment we were back in the penthouse where I have lived at the Capitol for so long, Kieran pulled me in a tight hug. "I can't believe you're here. You made it." He whispered in my ear, making me cry of happiness. I wiped the tears from my eyes and nodded. "Yeah, I did and I have never been happier." I shared hugs and kisses with Effie and Rona too. My stylist turned to me with a wicked smile on her lips. "Hayley Marshall, you really are one of a kind warrior. You deserved to be Victor this year, no doubt." I shook my head with a smile on my face. "The only thing I can be proud of is that I came out of that whole charade alive, Rona. There will be no Victors after this. The Hunger Games have ended, and it's exactly what I wanted." Kieran nodded. "I believe your plan to get the tributes to work together really paid off, Hayley." As we continued discussing the Capitol, Effie told me that I would rest here tonight and the next morning, I shall be going back home to my family.

Later through the night, I was out on the balcony, watching the Capitol, which looked pretty empty for the first time since it has been created. Footsteps were heard behind me and I turned around with a smile to see Kieran there. "I thought I told you that you should get some sleep. It's been a long day for you." I sighed and whispered, "I know. I am just nervous." "About seeing your family after so long?" "I have never been this much apart from Lucy and Jake in my life. I promised them that I would come back and I didn't break my promise. They are going to be so happy to see me." I told him. "And your mother?" I pursed my lips, hoping that we wouldn't get to that subject. "There is nothing about my mother that moves me." "Hayley, come on…" "No. I told you that for some reason she had come back into Lucy and Jake's lives. Maybe she had some ulterior motive, maybe she did not but one thing is for certain. She couldn't wait to come back home, after she found out I had joined the games. Maybe she wanted me gone. Maybe she wanted to raise just Lucy and Jake. I don't know and I don't care." Anger flashed through my eyes as Kieran joined me near the balustrade.

"Just think about it for a moment. Both of you have suffered a great deal when your father died." "I was left alone with my siblings because she couldn't handle it." "She couldn't handle another loss after your father. Knowing that you could participate in these games, must have pushed her over the edge. I really doubt that she doesn't love you, Hayley. Just give her a chance when you get back. If you want to be a part of Lucy and Jake's lives now, you must learn how to deal with her." Kieran's advice was supposed to be worth giving but I knew that I didn't want this. I didn't want anything that had to do with my mother. I wanted to live my life as I had done so before, without her help and only to have my siblings with me. With these thoughts of mine, came regrets. Regrets because I knew that there was something I was leaving behind, and I couldn't just leave that thought behind me. _He took my hands in his and brought them to his lips. "You will be my wife when the time comes. We will live a wonderful life together, with no wars and no idiotic games. Just us…and the family we will create. A family of our own."_ This was Klaus' wish. He wanted me, and I wanted him. I couldn't block out the look on his face when I told him that we were supposed to part ways, in order to get back to our families. He didn't want to part ways and I wished we didn't have to either. We were supposed to be connected, forever.

"Thinking about someone special?" Kieran suddenly asked me and caught me off guard. I tried to look away but I couldn't. I was already captivated by his image. Kieran was looking at me with a smile on his face, and I wasn't sure why he was smiling when he was the one who told me all along to say away from Klaus. "He has really gotten to you, hasn't he?" "Who?" I mumbled and Kieran chuckled. "Come on, Hayley, you know who I mean. The gentleman I saw you kissing not too long ago." "That was a goodbye kiss." "It didn't seem like it." I took a deep breath before responding. "He believes that there is still a chance for us, that we can find our way back to each other, get married and start a life together. Have a family. That is what he wants." "I see. Is that what you want?" "Yes. But I also can't abandon my family. I love Klaus, I do. I have never felt like loving someone before him. We have so much in common, he understands me, I understand him…and there is so much more." "I understand. I won't force it out of you. This is between you and him." I didn't answer and just continued to look beyond. "What is going to happen now?" I finally asked him.

"Nothing. You are going to return home to your family." He told me and I turned towards you. "But…what about you, Rona and Effie?" He smiled. "You will miss us?" "Most definitely." "You weren't this pleased to see me the day you were chosen as a tribute. You gave me death glares as if you were prepared to chop my head off. The games have actually softened you up, Hayley." I rolled my eyes. "I was not pissed at you. I was pissed at the situation. I knew that you were placed as my mentor to help me through this hell and you did. I only wished…Josh would have made it." I could feel him stiffen beside me. "It was his own doing. I was very disappointed when I realized what was happening between the two of you. And he had gotten himself killed." "Who is going to govern Panem now that President Snow is no more?" "They are still debating on it. The most important thing we are to celebrate is that The Hunger Games are no more. No more children will be force to subdue to these games. No family will ever suffer the loss of their children ever again." "That is a good thought. I can't imagine what I would have done if Lucy and Jake were forced in these games with me."

He put his hand on my shoulder and hugged me tightly. "You are the best student I have ever had, Hayley. Take care of yourself and don't forget what I told you about your relationship with your mother. Families stick together, always and forever. As for you and Klaus…you never know what might happen in the near future. You can find each other again. I am sure of it." I giggled. "You are actually encouraging my relationship with Klaus? You?" "Why shouldn't I?" "Because you hate him and his family. You warned me all this time to stay away from him and I didn't listen." "That was because I believed that he was playing with your feelings and I didn't want you to get hurt. Men are known for charming women before the games so they have the upper hand. I was under the impression Klaus was doing the same thing to you. But after seeing the two of you today and from what you told me, I am certain he loves you just as much as you love him."

"I wish I had met him in another life. I don't know, but I was hoping that we wouldn't meet like this, in the games where we would have to fight till death. I hate the place I come from. I have fallen in love with this man and my duty as a Panem citizen is to stay away from people who belong to other districts. Only the connections between District 1 and 2 allow them to connect with one another. He is rich and he is famous where he comes from. I am nothing, really. My family is poor. Actually, I can't call what I have a true family, and I…" He stopped me from talking and said, "Now that President Snow is in charge, things will get better. I am sure they will. You just have to trust the new system." Finally, I nodded and embraced him. "You have been like a father to me." "And you like a daughter. This is not goodbye, Hayley. Trust me. Effie, Rona and I cannot wait to come see you." Smiling, I pulled back just as I felt something sharp in my stomach and Kieran frowned. "Are you alright?" "Yeah, I thought I just felt…" I stopped talking for a moment, gulping at the possible thought. Shaking my head, I returned to bed, leaving Kieran with questions.

**District 2: Niklaus Mikaelson**

**The End of Tragedy**

We have returned to the hotel room, in which Gora applauded Rebekah, Camille and me for our bravery. Truth was, none of this glory mattered to me anymore. It was not like I was expecting this whole thing to end in such misery. I was supposed to stay focused for my family, to win, to protect Rebekah. I have done none of that. I have lost my father; I have lost the regained connection between me and Elijah. I have failed in protecting Rebekah from herself, as she was now putting her life in danger, demanding to be with Marcel when the time came. Cami tried talking to me about these issues, and I lashed out, demanding that she left me alone. I was sitting in my room, lifting up weights the way I always did whenever something was bothering me and Rebekah knew that. The door opened and she gently entered, closing the door behind her and sitting next to me.

"You really miss her, don't you, Nik?" When I didn't say anything, she scoffed. "Come on, I am your sister. You know that you can tell me anything you wish." "There is absolutely nothing to tell, sister. I have lost her. From her kiss…I could tell that it would be the last one for us." "You asked her to marry you. That was a shock for me, Nik. You were thinking so far ahead. You are a few months from becoming of age, while Hayley has at least a year left." "I asked her to marry me because I know that she is the woman I see as my wife, no one else. None of the women I had enjoyed the company of in the past could ever be compared to her." "I know she trusted you with her secrets…and you trusted her with yours." She was looking at me skeptically and I groaned, realizing that it was a question. "Why can't I know something you do, Nik? I have always looked out for you as you have for me. What can be so bad? I can tell that it has been eating you up. Just tell me." I was afraid of losing Rebekah as a sister, but against my better judgement, I spilled everything to her. She gasped.

"Nik…I don't…I can't believe this." She whispered in awe. "I knew I shouldn't have told you." I growled. "No. I am angry that you kept this to yourself and didn't tell me up till now. I should have known…" "Rebekah, we were being filmed. I don't want the world to ever know that I am not Mikael's son. Not ever. I am sure he doesn't want his reputation ruined and I am who I am because people think I have Mikaelson blood in my veins when I don't." "No one will know about this, Nik except your family." "Hayley knows." "How could you trust her over your own siblings?" "We connected in a way you cannot possibly understand, Rebekah. She is my other half. I am not one to believe in such cheesy lines, but I do feel she is my soulmate." Rebekah nodded and hugged me tightly whispering, "What are you going to tell Father when we get home tomorrow?" "I shall confront him. Because of this discovery, he is sending both of us to live with Mother. I understand why he would want me away but he is taking on his rage on you also. I will not have it and I will demand that you return home where you have lived all this time." "Nik, you don't have to do this with me. I am actually more excited to be spending time with Mother, Elijah and Kol. Elijah has suffered a lot. I need to be able to console him and help him move on with his life." "I believe our darling Camille has that section covered." "Yes, she does." Rebekah said with a sad smile.

I sighed and whispered, "I am guessing this has something to do with the loss of Marcel." "I feel for him what you feel for Hayley." "Do not start with me. He is from 11." "And Hayley is from 12. What's the difference? Besides, Marcel and I have history together as kids. We may not have seen much of each other but I always felt attracted to him. We don't know what can happen. Maybe rules will change after we find out who the new president is. I hope he will be a kind and merciful man who will let us all citizens of Panem live in peace and harmony. No more districts. No more factions of distinctions between rich and poor. No more. I am sick of this." "You are only saying this because of your love for Marcel." "No, that is not true. I have already informed Mother of what I want, and I want to be with Marcel, as you want Hayley to be with you." "We have lost of them, Rebekah. There is no turning back." "We'll see." She told me before leaving.

…

We left the next morning after saying good bye to our mentor. Taking the train with Rebekah the two of us have successfully returned home to the riches of District 1. Camille had taken a different train to her own home in District 2, and my former home now. Elijah and Kol were in a different compartment than us, after the discovery that I was not Mikael's son. I was worried they would not accept me for who I was. I was still their brother, regardless of my mother's sin. As the train left us in the station, I looked up and I could see my mother in tears, as she opened up her arms and I hugged her, whispering, "It's going to be alright, Mother." "No, it is not. You didn't see the hurt on his face, Niklaus. And he even confessed to still loving me as I continue to love him every day for the rest of my life." Her words shocked me but I nodded as I let her embrace Rebekah, whom she hadn't heard of in a long while. "Look how beautiful you are!" she gasped, happily. "Mother, you have received my letter, have you not? About Marcel?" Mother put her finger to her lips and whispered, "Let us go home."

Mother's home was small but comfortable, as she was now forced to make room for Rebekah and me. Kol came up from behind me and patted my back. "It's alright, bro." "What is that supposed to mean?" "It means that it's cool. You've been through enough already. It is still surprising to me that we are only half related but…no one has to find out the truth now, do they?" he asked me with a smirk and I smirked back, embracing him. "Where is Elijah?" I asked him. "I really wouldn't want to be in his shoes right now. He prefers to be left alone. I hear Camille is going to reunite with her family and then come over here. What's going on now? Are they a thing? Elijah does know how to move on quickly." "She is helping him heal, Kol, and I prefer her to be here. She is a good friend." "What about Father? What are you going to do about him now?" "I shall ask my mother for permission to be sent there." I grabbed my jacket as Kol asked me, "Hey are you sure you're doing the right thing? As I know, Father can be very temperamental." "With the way I am feeling right now…he should be more afraid of me."

"Niklaus, where are you going? We are having dinner as a family." Mother came forward and caressed my face. I kissed her hand and whispered, "I have some things I need to settle with Mikael." "Niklaus, please do not go. You are putting yourself at risk." "I understand that he feels betrayed but he has no right to treat Rebekah this way, sending her away from her own home because he wishes to be rid of our family."

…

I banged on the door the minute I arrived to the house I once called home, before this bastard had me and my sister kicked out. The door opened and Mikael's shocked face was revealed when he saw me standing there. "Surprised?" I asked him with a frown. "I thought I had told you in that letter that you and Rebekah are to stay with your mother from now on." I shook my head innocently and smirked, "Sorry. I must have skipped that part." And I allowed myself inside the house, as I could see the anger on his own face. He closed the door after I have entered and crossed his hands over his chest. "What do you want, Niklaus? Have you come here to mock me, about being betrayed by your mother like that?" "I have come here because I cannot understand how you would cut Rebekah from your life because of Mother's discovery that I am not your biological son." "I told your mother to keep you with her as at the moment, I am not capable of raising two children."

"Children? Were you planning on letting me continue living with you after what you have heard?" I asked him with surprise in my voice. "I was considering your mother's words. She told me that I have always favored you out of all of my children because I felt you were special. That is the reason I have pushed you hard to work and win the games. You have not won…but you have survived. You have gotten your family out of that arena safely. That is what I would have been proud of…had you really been my son." My parted for a moment before whispering, "So that is the one thing keeping you from being proud of what the boy you have raised has accomplished? Blood, your family blood. I have always been you son, Mikael. And I have always looked up to you as I saw you as a great warrior who fought for his family. And now…even after knowing that you are not my biological father…I stand before you. Why do you think that is?" He stood there for a moment and for the first time, I was seeing his eyes soften. "It is the first time you address to me Mikael…instead of Father. It is new and unexpected."

"Unexpected? How so? You did claim that you are no longer my father. You kicked both me and Rebekah out of our home because of it, because of your ego, your pride…" "Niklaus that is enough!" Mikael hissed at me and moved to the bar to pour himself a glass of scotch. Before he could grab it, I took it from him and whispered, "Thanks." With a smirk on my face as I drank it instead. He simply rolled his eyes and poured himself another glass. "Things cannot be as they have been before." He told me and I nodded. "Why is that?" "Because I cannot let go of the betrayal I see in you because of your mother. You are the symbol of her infidelity, the boy I have raised so well…" My eyes averted from him and I saw a letter from the Capitol, ripped open and read, sitting on his desk. I picked it up and looked over it at once. "What is this?" I asked in a whisper. I read through it before Mikael could come over and take it away from me. "They have decided to offer me the new position as President after Snow was asked to step down." I looked at him in shock. "Have you accepted it?" "Not yet. But I will." "And what shall you do with your new power?" I asked him. My first thought was directed to Hayley.

"I shall provide a better home for all the people in Panem, as Rebekah would want." He drank his scotch and I whispered, "Mother told me she still loves you and that you admitted you still love her. Forget about what she did to you. She is asking for your forgiveness and you have three children with her. Don't let them down because of what I represent to you." I told him firmly. Mikael looked at me for a moment before shaking his head and putting down his scotch. He put his hands on my shoulders and replied, "You are the son I have always wanted, and I shall forever be grateful for having given the opportunity to raise you. But I was taught not to ignore my blood. Seeing as you are not my blood…" "Then I ask a favor from you." I told him, with my eyes holding back the tears he could clearly see. "What is this about?" "I want you to change course when you do become the leader of our society. I no longer wish for there to be districts, poor people and rich people. Offer the same kind of lifestyle and respect to all people of Panem." Mikael smiled after a moment and whispered, "This is about that girl from 12. You want to be with her, don't you, Niklaus?"

There was a moment of silence before I told him firmly, "I have fallen in love with her the way I have never fallen for anyone else. I want to marry her when we become of age. I want to make her my wife." "Is that all you wish for?" he asked me and I nodded. "If you want you can bring her here where she can be well provided for." "I cannot. She wants to be with her family, her own people. I know of the tragedy in District 12, Mikael. People are hungry. I want them to be provided for, just as much as I want Hayley to be provided for." He looked like he was lost in thought and finally told me, "Very well. I will take care of this problem." "Meaning?" I asked with hope rising inside of my chest. "Meaning…I will find a way to make your relationship possible." "And Rebekah…" "I know about Rebekah and her lover…that will be taken care of too." "Why do you accept to do this? What's the catch?" Mikael smiled and told me. "Just one small thing." I rolled my eyes, knowing that I would have to pay a price for having Hayley in my life.

"What?" "Are you willing to do anything for this girl?" "Yes." I said without hesitation and he looked surprised. "The condition is to invite me to your wedding." There was a small smirk on his face as my face relaxed as well, matching his smirk. "I thought you said you wouldn't be my father any longer." "All with time, Niklaus…all with time." Without being able to help myself, I stepped over to him and pulled him into a hug, a hug I could reserve only for my father and no matter what he said, he would be my father, always, as I had no other. He embraced me back and said, "Tell your mother that I love her…but I need time. And perhaps in a couple of months, a couple of years, when we reunite at your wedding…we can restart our relationship and bring the family together as one. Esther has hurt me, but I cannot deny you as my son, Niklaus. Your mother was right. I have raised you…not Ansel. You are who you are because you are my son. Family…always and forever." I was never happier to hear him say that. "Thank you, Father." "Ah, there's the word I love to hear."

**District 1: Elijah Mikaelson**

**The End of Tragedy**

Katerina's death still haunted me. I had given her a proper burial here in her home, after I have offered the corpse to her parents and her sisters. The thought that the baby was never mine to begin with, also pulled a part of my heart out of my chest. This was not the Katerina that I remembered years ago. She kind and she was caring for my feelings. She would never have broken my heart. And then came the day when she decided to ruin our relationship. The moment I found of her pregnancy, I thought this was the answer to why she had ended things. I had done my best to refrain from something serious to develop between Camille and me for this exact reason. I wanted to give us another chance…and to raise this baby together. People believed that Katherine Pierce had just died, but the truth is…she had died a long time ago.

Looking behind the house, after I have returned from Katherine's burial, I could not believe to see Kol and Davina standing there, talking, laughing and occasionally kissing. I sped over to them right away. They didn't seem at all frightened by my anger. "What do you think that you are doing here, Davina? Go back to your own district. I demand you…" "Elijah, you cannot tell me what to do. If I want to be here, I am going to be here." "No, you cannot be here. Please listen to me this moment. The Capitol does not forgive any…" "The Capitol is done for, Elijah. President Snow is no more, and your father is going to take over. He has promised us a better home. No more districts. Panem will be united." Davina told me and my mouth parted in shock at hearing such things. Kol smirked towards me and said, "I bet you didn't see that one coming did you, brother?" "No, of course not. I had not expected our father to take such a high position in his career. Ever since he has sent Rebekah and Niklaus here…" "He is doing this as a favor to Nik." Kol told me.

"What are you talking about?" I asked him and before he could answer, I heard footsteps behind me, and Camille approached me, cupping my cheek. I sighed at her touch, feeling the comfort I need but shook my head. "You should be getting back to your home." "This is my home now, Elijah. As Kol said, things are changing for the better. There will be no more districts and we have Klaus to thank for that. He asked Mikael to do this as a favor to him, if he is no longer going to be a part of his life." She told me. Kol and Davina turned around and walked freely around the streets as I was frustrated and turned to Camille. "What did you mean when you said that this is your home? Your home is with your parents." "My parents agree with me being here. Eventually, I have to leave the nest, don't I? I accept the challenge and I want to be here with you." "Camille…" She shook her head and whispered, "I know how much you have lost and believe me, I am not here so I can try to make you forget about her because I know you never will. Katherine will always have a special place in your heart, despite betraying you."

"You have no way of knowing that." "Well, I do know and what I also know is that you are going to be the brother to Klaus he wants. You will not let him down, even if you do not share the same father and he has no Mikaelson blood in his veins. He is your brother and he is a fighter just as you are." "I am bombarded with shocking surprises which never cease to end. Katerina has died, and Niklaus…my own brother is not whom I thought he would be. The thought of such changes frightens me." "Then let me be here to help you make it easier. Elijah, you know as well as I do that change is a great importance in life. It develops you as a person. You evolve. So don't hold back and eventually, you will have to move on. But that doesn't mean for you to forget all about Katherine." Her words pierced through me and I realized that she was absolutely right about everything she was saying. I took her hands in mine and brought them to my lips, kissing them softly. "Then how about we go through this process of evolution together? Have dinner with me? I can take you someplace nice for a change." She smiled. "I would really love that."

**District 12: Hayley Marshall**

**The End of Tragedy**

"HAYLEY!" I could hear Lucy's yell as she ran over towards me and hugged me. Tears were flowing off my cheeks as I held this fragile girl in my arms, never thinking that I would get this chance again. Jake, looked at handsome as his father had once been. As Lucy pulled back, I kissed her forehead and pulled Jake into a hug too. "You came back just as you promised." He whispered in my ear and I nodded with happiness. "Of course I did. You didn't think that I would leave you like this, did you?" There was a woman standing in front of me and in front of our house. My eyes rose to meet hers and my breathing hitches as I realized that I was looking at my own mother, whom I haven't seen since I was Jake's age. Annabelle smiled sadly at me as she whispered, "You have no idea how proud I am of you. You survived, and that really makes you your father's daughter."

I pulled away from Jake and Lucy and stepped over to her, looking at her in the eyes at what she was telling me. Of course, deep down, I couldn't be happier to see her, but when I thought about how she had left us…I felt trapped like I had no way out. I could feel her disappointment as she averted her eyes from me. Stepping forward, I decided to bring only smiles on Jake and Lucy's faces. I hugged my mother tightly and she accepted my embrace. "Please, forgive me, Hayley." Annabelle wept into my neck and I pulled her even closer. "I have forgiven you." The moment would have gone like this for an extended period of time, if this one thing had not took us both by surprise. I felt something moving inside of me, the same way I felt a while before with Kieran on the balcony. The way my mother stared at me, I could tell that she was thinking the same thing I was. "Hayley…what have you been up to, my darling?" I bit my lip and whispered, "Mother, is this possible?" She smiled and whispered, "It is that young fella from the games, isn't it? The man you spent almost all your time with, Klaus Mikaelson?" I nodded as she slowly led me inside.

The news that my mother gave me, saddened me in more ways than one. She pulled me in a tight hug. "It's going to be alright, my darling, you will see." "How can it be? He is not here with me." "Things are changing and he promised he wouldn't let you go. He loves you. He will find you." I shook my head and whispered, "I am sure that he has already found another blonde bimbo to occupy his time with. Why would he want to be with me, a poor girl from a rival district?" "Hayley, I cannot believe that you're asking yourself that after everything you have been through together. You have both come a long way since those terrible times in the games." I smiled and wiped away my tears as Jake and Lucy sat down with me. "We are here for you, forever. You know that, right?" Jake asked me with a smile and I nodded, understanding just how much my family meant to me. But this gift…I touched my stomach and was about to cry when I loud bang could be heard on the door. My mother and I looked at each other, confused.

She opened the door and covered her mouth with her hand, stepping aside and telling me with a smile. "It's him." I frowned. "Who, Mother?" The moment he entered, I felt whole again. I saw that charming smile on his face as he strode over to my side and kissed me passionately. I could tell that my mom had left with Jake and Lucy, as to leave us alone for a couple of moments. "Klaus." I moaned out his name as he hit my weak spot on my neck. "I can't believe that you're here." I told him with tears flowing off my cheeks. "I told you that I would come back for you, little wolf. I met Mikael." "You did? What…what happened?" "It turned out well and there is still hope for our family to be reunited in the future. We simply need to believe. Mikael still loves my mother and she loves him back. And you also be pleased to know that my father shall be taking over Panem, and his first act as President…is to dismiss all districts so you can come with me." "What?" "We can go away, little wolf. And start our own life, with our own home, wherever we want to." I couldn't believe that I was hearing all of this. He was looking at me with hopeful eyes. "Hayley Marshall, I was serious regarding the marriage."

I covered my mouth and he pressed his forehead on my name as I whispered, "I know. I just…I found out something. You must know…" "Know?" I pressed my hand to my stomach and whispered, "Klaus, I'm pregnant. I am having our baby." He was in complete shock and I couldn't help but laugh when I saw the look on his face. It was priceless. "I can see that you are way ahead of me, love. Already adding the first touches to a family: children." He joked and kissed me once again with pure joy. "And I want more…so much more." I told him firmly. "Of course. Always and forever. I promise you." He told me and we shared our special moment in that house. Things would change for the better, for all the citizens of Panem and for the first time since my father died, I felt complete.

**A/N: Hope you liked the end of this story. I have been meaning to finish it for a while and found the perfect and simple ending. I hope you have all been pleased with the eight characters I saved from the games. I shall be starting a new story as soon as I finish Blissful Desires.**

**Thank you fore reading this and please leave me many reviews!**


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Originals, Adventure, Romance