The sharp blast of the Capitol's anthem cut through the tense air of the arena, echoing against the rocky cliffs and dense forest. Katniss Everdeen stood on her metal pedestal, her bow absent for now, her heart hammering in her chest as she scanned the glinting weapons and supplies scattered across the Cornucopia.

"Sixty seconds," the voice announced, dispassionate and cold.

Katniss's sharp gray eyes flickered to the tributes around her. Some trembled visibly, others wore masks of defiance. Across the circle, the Careers exchanged steely nods.

"Focus," she whispered to herself, her voice almost lost in the hum of the countdown.

The clock loomed above, its relentless second hand ticking away. Thirty seconds now. Her eyes darted to a pack of arrows near the edge of the Cornucopia and the backpack just beyond. She’d have to run. Fast.

She inhaled deeply, steadying herself. The memories of Prim’s face, Gale’s whispered advice, and Peeta’s quiet determination flooded her mind.

"Ten seconds."

Every muscle in her body tensed.

The horn blared, and the world exploded into chaos.