The Capitol cage was a stage before it was a cell.

Tributes moved like shadows inside it—some desperate, some proud, most silent. But not you.

You stepped into the open space with a steel ring in hand, spinning it like it was a part of you. Light caught on its edge, dancing with every motion you made, mesmerizing the crowd that watched from beyond the glass.

Treech sat back at first, arms crossed, unimpressed.

But then he noticed the way the audience leaned forward. The way they smiled. The way you smiled.

He stood up slowly, grabbed three apples from the food crate, and stepped into the circle beside you. No words—just a nod.

As you twirled the ring, he juggled beside you, steps circling yours in rhythm. The Capitol loved it.

And for a moment… so did he.