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Panem's history became an entire subject of its own when talking about its kind. When one would think something else, the other would make sure to correct it and make Panem's history one of a kind. Something to be proud of for the next generation to come. A memory for the following Hunger Games, a memory for all the citizens of Panem.
Dr. Gaul proudly declared the commencement of the 11th annual Hunger Games. Fueled by the determination to avoid a year without enough bloodshed and the thrilling spectacle of knives in action, she orchestrated a carefully calculated game of cat and mouse. In Panem, one had to tread cautiously when expressing opposition, let alone attempting to convey any emotion about the lethal spectacle that was Panem's annual 11th Hunger Games.
The announcement of the newly chosen Districts elicited excitement from everyone, including the students of the Academy. Among them was Coriolanus Snow, an elite student known for his meticulous approach to his studies. Despite being one of the few selected mentors, his prestigious family legacy and the admiration of his fellow classmates left no doubt as to why he was chosen. It was clear to everyone that Snow took his role seriously and meant business.
While Snow outwardly displayed pride in his dedication, his confidence betrayed a lack of clear ideology. He struggled with self-awareness, uncertain about the identity he would represent and questioning his mentor skills for the impending challenge. The feedback from previous seniors had stirred both nervousness and intrigue in those entering the market. Interestingly, Dr. Gaul appeared unfazed and even seemed to relish the unfolding events. For her, the Hunger Games had become an unexpected reality, a facet of her life that no one could have anticipated.
"And may the odds be ever in your favor." Dr. Gaul's words echoed in Snow's mind, serving as a distracting backdrop, signaling the official commencement of the Games. At this moment, his focus shifted to ensuring that his presentation and attire were impeccable. Tigris's comments, coming from his cousin, highlighted areas he needed to improve. Initially presuming that his mere presence, owing to his family's legacy, would suffice, he now realized the importance of meticulous preparation. The announcement of the Games had created an air of mystery, prompting even Snow's classmates to scrutinize each other, not for benevolent reasons but in pursuit of a promise— the promise that one among the new candidates would emerge victorious. And that, was one of the things Snow needed badly.
x
The next day, students assembled in the main room of the Academy, each assigned a District corresponding to their role as mentors. Among his classmates, Snow stood out as the most self-assured, expressing impatience for his forthcoming responsibilities. These duties extended beyond merely imparting knowledge; he had to establish trust with a stranger, train them, and guide them to victory. If it were as straightforward as the history books made it seem, Snow would have been assured of success by now. However, it wasn't until he took his seat that he and his peers learned which District they were designated to mentor.
After the announcement of another successful year of the Hunger Games, Dr. Gaul proceeded to detail her customary rules. While some appeared disinterested, Snow shared the sentiment, his attention fixed on uncovering the identity of his assigned candidate. Would they embody Lucy Gray's traits entirely, or would they manifest as something entirely different? A peculiar curiosity compelled him to seek immediate answers, even contemplating cutting to the chase with Dr. Gaul. "Now, I suspect many of you are eager to know your future candidates. But first, let's announce your destined District!" She proclaimed this statement with a remarkable taste lingering in her mouth, a hunger for survival evident in her demeanor.
"Coriolanus Snow." Dr. Gaul uttered with a brief pause, her soft gaze meeting his watchful and obedient eyes. Initially, he found himself becoming as submissive as he had felt when encountering Lucy. The entire experience felt surreal in his mind, yet he stood up proudly, a pride that, if spoken of with poor taste, could render one invisible by the next day. "District 12!" Dr. Gaul declared, sealing his fate with the assigned district.
An unsure yet faithful smile graced his features, a sense of relief washing over him, perhaps prematurely. Though a part of him yearned to release a satisfying sigh, he chose to remain vigilant and silent. Was his faith going to be easily redeemed this time? Despite the fact that the preceding 10th Hunger Games were to be wiped from history, he sensed that, at times, even his classmates were keenly aware of his connection with his previous candidate. In attempting to do so, he had always hoped to completely erase that memory. And that perhaps, whoever will be chosen during its reaping day, will become his new distraction.
