Alexi Wainwright
The Black Sheep
Why was there banners and confetti? Why were people shouting and cheering as the peacekeepers took their positions? Why were parents grinning while they sent their children to check in? What kind of festival was this? In the crowds, one could see the vibrant colors and the different outfits of the celebrating party. The clothes and fashion was not as extravagant as those of District one, but these were a pretty close second.
Alexi walked up towards the ‘sign up’ table. She stood behind people who willingly gave their hands to the peacekeepers. When the process was over, the peacekeeper would smile and wish the kid “Good luck.” It was as if they wanted those kids to volunteer. Alexi waited until it was her turn. She held out her hand and felt the cold metal instrument prick her finger. Slowly, the blood started to drip from her finger, and the peacekeeper bandaged it up. With a cunning smile, and an ulterior motive, the peacekeeper sent on her way.
The young girl made her way through the crowd of possible Hunger Game candidates. She stood amongst the other excitable children, waiting for their opportunity to ‘shine’. The square began to fill up with more candidates. The time had come. There was no turning back now. Alexi stared down at her hand as she heard the all so familiar tapping sound. The sponsor for District 2 stood onto the stage with a bright smile on her face. This person was called Lilith Jordan. Lilith wore a bright neon orange dress suit. She had crazy colored makeup, which made her look like a clown. Everyone cheered her on as she held up her hands. Alexi huffed as the woman walked across the stage, seeking more attention.
“District two; are you ready for the festivities?” The crowd cheered loudly. Lilith grin spread across her face. There was no bowls on the stage, rather, just empty seats. District two did not need them. Lilith held up the microphone in a dramatic manner.
“Now…the big question. First, let’s let the ladies go. Do we have any volunteers for the 92nd Hunger Games?” As soon as Lilith asked the question, the crowd started to react. Who would be the first person to raise their hand? Who wanted to take this opportunity? Those questions were then answered. A small hand raised in the air.
“I volunteer” Alexi called out of the crowd. The crowd became silent. If a pin dropped, everyone could hear it. It was unusual for District two. A group of kids moved to aside, so that they could get a better look at the girl. Those individuals were greeted by determined icy blue eyes. Alexi slowly made her way to the middle of the square. She lifted her hands in the air again and restated “I want to volunteer for the Hunger Games.” The District remained silent. They could not believe that their very own black sheep was actually volunteering for the games. Lilith pointed towards the peacekeepers, and singled for them to walk her up to the stage. Alexi did not even wait for them to come near her. She slowly made her way up to the stage. The young girl stared down at the people who mocked and ridiculed her. Now all they could do was gawk and stare at her. Then Alexi looked through the crowds, in hopes of finding her brother. What was done has been done and she could not do anything about it now. This would be her last chance to see them.
Alexi’s train of thought was interrupted when the sponsor spoke up. The women held a microphone to Alexi’s mouth.
“What is your name Ms. Warrior?”
“Alexi Wainwright” she said with great proud, and fear. Lilith nodded her head. In her mind, she couldn’t believe that this girl was actually going to do this. With a nod and a silent pray, Lilith announced…
“And this is your female representative for District two!”