Hunger Games AU Before

## Before

“Hurry up Charlotte, we’re going to be late!” Yells out Riley. I hurry to brush my hair before walking towards my brother was interesting, to say the least, 175.6 centimeters, and 95.6 kilograms. Majority of his weight was in his muscles on his arms, legs and stomach. Given that they had lived in District Twelve their whole life, it had been surprising to see him against the Careers, who each had two years on him at the time, now they had none. I know he was worried for me this year because I am the same age as he had been, fifteen. Last year there had been Victors children, a boy and a girl. They both died, killed by careers. They had been twins, they died together. Lumen and Nox, I think their names were those, yeah they were. No one volunteered, not even me. My brother said to me “do not volunteer, in any circumstances.” Thank goodness I didn’t, otherwise. I stumble on a loose tile near the square. My brother catches me and then rights me so I don’t lose balance. Walking in a hurry so he can sit next to the mayor. As we sign in, I wince.. Slightly. It looks like I’m the first fifteen year old female there. Great. As I straighten my dark blue dress made out of silk, I catch the eye of my father, his face says calm down, don’t show how fearful you actually are. Half an hour passes and every citizen is ready or not to see who will try and not die.

“Ladies first.” Trills out a new Escort. I think the last one died. “Charlotte Jones.” I blink surprised as my name is called out. Stumbling forward I catch sight of my brother, wearing the same expression as me. Stumbling forward I let the tears flow freely, at least I think wryly I’m not wearing makeup. Let them all see me crying, they would hopeful think me a weakling, I sure as hell aren’t. I walk up the stairs to the stage. I don’t process the name until the person comes into view. Elijah Jacas. He was the same age as me, and he had dirty blond hair, and startling green eyes, that had captured my gaze one too many times across the school yard. As he gives me a nod and takes his place.

We shake hands as I feel his hand shake just the tiniest bit. We stand side by side as the anthem plays. Ears ringing I walk into the Justice Building. I walk with sagging shoulders as I disappear into my room. I remember coming into this area two years back. It hasn’t changed much. I don’t think it has changed at all. As my family come in we all sit in silence. Then my dad gives me something just like he did with my brothers, we don’t talk much about Johnny. He died four years ago. A career won that year. He almost made home but then he died because the career was faster. Two years ago my dad gave Riley a band. It was made out of a mish mash of metals. My brother still wears the band. My dad hands over a jade necklaces. “I.. what?”

“You need a token,” my dad whispers “For luck.”

There was something I knew I should say but I’m not sure what but then I know,

“Thank you.”

As my family led out I make sure to give them all a hug. Knowing I don’t have much time I think about how my brother died that one year and his body it's working I feel the tears flowing freely. As the guards lead me forward I walk on deadened feet to the train. I can see that Elijah has not been crying at all. He is probably trying to look like he is tough. Our district is known for being weaklings. One thing I’m glad about my brothers games was that he survived by hiding out. It was a bit surprising I guess. As the train speeds towards the Capitol I reflect on the day. As I sit down and wait for everyone to arrive I play up the scared girl. As we finish dinner I go to bed, not wanting to watch the reaping. I’d see it later. As I fall asleep, I wonder if I will survive this at all.