Sunrise on the Reaping

Haymitch Abernathy wakes up on his 16th birthday, which coincides with the reaping day for the 50th Hunger Games. In District 12, a poor mining district, his younger brother, Sid, rouses him from sleep. Haymitch completes his morning chores, reflecting on the terror of the reaping and his plans to spend the day with his girlfriend, Lenore Dove. His mother, a hardworking laundress, assigns him tasks, but he finishes early to meet Lenore in the Meadow.

In the Meadow, Lenore serenades Haymitch with a subversive song about social injustice, revealing her critical and rebellious nature, which contrasts with Haymitch's more pragmatic outlook. Despite the looming threat of the reaping, they share a tender moment, and Haymitch receives a thoughtful birthday gift from Lenore—a beautifully crafted flint striker. The gift symbolizes both practicality and a deeper emotional bond.

As the reaping approaches, Haymitch returns home to prepare and trades some white liquor for supplies in town. He reflects on the oppressive presence of the Capitol and the fear it instills in the district. At the reaping, the names of four tributes are drawn: Louella McCoy, Maysilee Donner, Wyatt Callow, and Woodbine Chance. The selection of Woodbine, a member of a notorious rebel family, leads to a brief but intense confrontation, ending with his fatal shooting by Peacekeepers. The chapter concludes with the stark reality of the Hunger Games and the personal impact on the characters.

Amidst the chaos following the reaping, Haymitch finds himself caught in the Capitol officials’ efforts to regain control. The screens go dark, and the crowd erupts in panic and anger, leading to further violence and the shooting of several individuals, including Woodbine Chance. In the turmoil, Haymitch is forced to the ground along with the other citizens, but his concern for Lenore compels him to act when she tries to help Woodbine’s mother. He rushes to shield Lenore from a Peacekeeper’s rifle, only to be struck and dragged away as a replacement tribute for the dead Woodbine.

Haymitch’s sudden designation as a tribute sends shockwaves through the crowd. Drusilla, the reaping official, and Plutarch, a Capitol representative, orchestrate the chaos to fit the broadcast, ensuring that the reaping appears smooth and controlled. Despite the pressure to perform, Haymitch and Lenore refuse to give the Capitol the emotional reactions they crave. The scene is tense as Haymitch is forced to bid farewell to his mother and brother, Ma and Sid, under the watchful eye of the Capitol cameras. Plutarch manipulates the situation, extracting staged reactions from the families, but Haymitch’s family ultimately complies to secure a final moment with him.

During this brief reunion, Haymitch imparts his last wishes and possessions to Ma and Sid, emphasizing Sid’s role as the new man of the house. The emotional weight of the moment is palpable, and Haymitch’s determination to protect his family and Lenore is evident. As the Peacekeepers forcibly remove him, Haymitch is subjected to an electric shock, rendering him temporarily helpless. Once aboard the train, he watches through the window as the storm breaks and Lenore stands on a ridge, her defiance and grief a final, powerful image before the train departs.

Haymitch reflects on the loss of his loved ones and the unfairness of his reaping, feeling a deep sense of despair and guilt for the burden he's placed on his family. Memories of Lenore Dove, Sid, and Ma, and the simple joys they shared, now lost to the Hunger Games, weigh heavily on his mind. He contemplates the cruelty of his fate and wonders if he should have resisted more, perhaps even welcomed a quicker death in the square.

Later, Plutarch enters to invite Haymitch to join the other tributes. Despite his initial hatred towards Plutarch, Haymitch considers the man's unpredictable nature and decides it might be wise to stay on his good side. He joins Louella, Wyatt, and Maysilee in a compartment filled with lavish food, a stark contrast to their impoverished lives in District 12. Haymitch offers Louella his support, forming a tentative alliance, while Maysilee's condescending behavior towards Louella and the Capitol staff highlights her privileged upbringing and strained relationships within the group.

During dinner, the tributes watch a Capitol News segment that showcases the reaping from each district. Plutarch explains that he has edited the footage to present District 12 in a more favorable light, omitting the violent chaos and focusing on the tributes' apparent enthusiasm. This manipulation angers Maysilee, who sees it as a form of deceit, while Haymitch recognizes it as a necessary strategy to gain sponsor support. The chapter ends with the unexpected arrival of a birthday cake, a cruel reminder of the day's significance.

Haymitch's thoughts turn to the absence of birthday cakes in his household, a tradition his mother avoids due to the reaping. The arrival of a Capitol-style birthday cake, complete with a forced and insincere birthday song, only deepens his resentment and despair. He resists the Capitol's attempts to manipulate his emotions, refusing to acknowledge the cake or the apology offered by Plutarch, who orchestrated the event to create a positive image for the Capitol's propaganda.

Tensions rise during dinner as Drusilla, the reaping official, insults Louella's homemade dress. Maysilee Donner, quick-witted and fierce, retaliates with sharp words and a swift punch, leading to a physical altercation. Drusilla, fueled by her disdain, attacks Maysilee, only to be pulled off by Peacekeepers. Plutarch, attempting to defuse the situation, advises the tributes to consider the potential benefits of maintaining a relationship with Drusilla, despite her contemptuous treatment.

Later, in the sleeping compartment, Louella confides in Haymitch about her distrust of Wyatt Callow, revealing his connection to the Booker Boys, a group of miners involved in illegal gambling, including bets on the Hunger Games. This revelation solidifies Haymitch's resolve to avoid Wyatt as an ally, recognizing the moral and strategic risks associated with such a partnership. As the tributes arrive in the Capitol, they witness the arrival of District 1's tributes, including the imposing Panache Barker. Wyatt's analysis of Panache's strengths and weaknesses hints at the strategic thinking required for survival in the arena.

Louella and Wyatt engage in a tense conversation, with Louella accusing Wyatt of eavesdropping and being a Booker Boy. Maysilee steps in to defend Wyatt, but the atmosphere remains hostile. Plutarch interrupts, announcing their arrival at the Capitol, where the tributes are met with a hostile environment and quickly ushered into a windowless van. Haymitch reflects on the Capitol's oppressive nature and the lack of escape, finding solace in Louella's presence and the mutual support they offer each other.

Upon arriving at the Tribute Center, the tributes undergo a dehumanizing cleaning process involving harsh chemicals and humiliating procedures. Haymitch is particularly disturbed by the destruction of his mother's carefully stitched shirt and the potential loss of his flint striker. The prep team, consisting of Proserpina and Vitus, introduces themselves and reveals their student status, explaining the political and social dynamics of the Capitol. Haymitch's interaction with them provides a rare moment of human connection amidst the degrading treatment.

Haymitch's thoughts drift to Lenore Dove, recalling her rebellious acts and the risks she has taken. He reflects on her bravery and the potential consequences of her actions, worrying about her safety and the impact of her defiance on the community. This reflection underscores the personal stakes and the broader themes of resistance and sacrifice.

As the tributes prepare for the chariot procession, District 12's tributes are dressed in the same outdated miner overalls, contrasting sharply with the elaborate costumes of other districts. Despite the poor conditions, Haymitch and Louella support each other, reinforcing their alliance. During the chaotic parade, their chariot is nearly destroyed, leading to a dramatic crash. The chapter ends with Haymitch realizing that Louella has escaped, a moment of both relief and uncertainty.

Overwhelmed with grief and a desire to defy the Capitol, Haymitch cradles the lifeless body of Louella, who died in the chariot crash. He runs with her body, evading Peacekeepers and commandeering the District 1 chariot to reach the president’s mansion. President Snow’s initial amusement at Haymitch’s antics turns to a more scrutinizing gaze, and Haymitch is eventually dragged away by Peacekeepers, leaving Louella behind.

In the aftermath, Haymitch interacts with the crowd, spitting at a man’s face and earning the attention of potential sponsors. Despite the chaos, he is eventually loaded into a van with Maysilee and Wyatt, where they learn that their escort and stylists have abandoned them. Mags and Wiress, the new mentors from Districts 4 and 3 respectively, offer a stark contrast to the Capitol’s treatment of the tributes. Mags, in particular, provides a moment of comfort and understanding, allowing Haymitch to finally break down and cry.

Haymitch’s encounter with Ampert, a twelve-year-old tribute from District 3, highlights the desperation and alliances forming among the tributes. Ampert’s attempt to recruit Haymitch as an ally is met with refusal, as Haymitch is still reeling from Louella’s death. The chapter ends with Haymitch, Maysilee, and Wyatt being led to their quarters, where they are greeted by their new mentors, setting the stage for the next phase of their preparation for the Hunger Games.

Still reeling from the loss of Louella, Haymitch finds solace in Mags's comforting embrace. Mags and Wiress provide a rare moment of human connection, allowing Haymitch to cry and then offering him a luxurious bath and a hearty meal to help him recover. The impersonal apartment becomes a temporary sanctuary where Haymitch reflects on his losses and the unfairness of his situation.

During breakfast, Mags and Wiress facilitate a discussion about the tributes' desires and fears, revealing deeper motivations beyond mere survival. Haymitch expresses his wish to protect his loved ones from witnessing a prolonged, brutal death, while Wyatt and Maysilee share their own fears and aspirations. Haymitch also voices his desire to challenge the Capitol's dehumanization of the tributes, aiming to remind the audience of their humanity.

Mags and Wiress provide strategic advice for the upcoming training sessions, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing survival skills and forming alliances. Haymitch proposes joining Ampert's non-Career alliance, which includes tributes from Districts 7 and 8, and possibly 11. Despite initial tensions, Maysilee and Wyatt agree to consider the alliance, recognizing the potential benefits of having allies.

At the training gym, the tributes are met with a variety of survival and combat stations. Haymitch, Maysilee, and Wyatt decide to practice knife throwing, where they encounter Ringina from District 7. The session is interrupted by Panache's aggressive attack on Haymitch, which is thwarted by Peacekeepers. This incident sparks a moment of collective realization among the tributes, who briefly consider the possibility of rebelling against the Capitol's control.

Still reeling from the loss of Louella, Haymitch is confronted with the harsh reality of the Capitol's control and the tributes' submission. Plutarch questions why the tributes accept the Capitol's conditions, sparking a heated debate about the balance of power and the fear that keeps the districts in line. Determined to form a strong alliance, Haymitch introduces Maysilee and Wyatt to Ampert and Ringina, emphasizing the importance of appearing trustworthy and capable. Maysilee, using her skills, helps Ampert create a braided necklace, strengthening their bond. Meanwhile, Haymitch learns that Beetee, a victor from District 3, is Ampert's father and is being punished by mentoring his own son. Beetee teaches Haymitch how to turn a potato into a battery, a skill that could prove invaluable in the arena. This interaction reveals Beetee's intelligence and the potential for strategic alliances.

During lunch, the Newcomers, a growing alliance of tributes from Districts 3, 7, 8, 10, and 6, discuss their strategy. Ampert proposes hunting down the Careers, and Wyatt calculates the feasibility of their plan. Haymitch extends an invitation to District 6, who join the alliance, bringing their unique skills and trinkets. Maysilee's talent for crafting and enhancing tokens earns her respect and admiration from the other tributes. United in their determination to challenge the Careers, the Newcomers stand taller.

However, the mood shifts abruptly when Haymitch is summoned to a white marble building by Plutarch. The ominous setting and Plutarch's cryptic remarks suggest that Haymitch is about to face consequences for his actions during the chariot procession, leaving the reader with a sense of impending danger and the high stakes of Haymitch's defiance.

Feeling increasingly vulnerable and fearing for his life, Haymitch is led through the marble fortress by Plutarch. The opulence of the Heavensbee residence, filled with grand portraits and luxurious furnishings, starkly contrasts with the poverty of District 12, and Haymitch reflects on the countless lives lost to build such extravagance. In the vast library, where walls are lined with thousands of books, Haymitch finds momentary comfort in the familiar presence of literature, a connection to Lenore Dove and her love for books.

In the conservatory, a room designed to mimic the outdoors, Plutarch shows Haymitch a carnivorous plant called nepenthes, drawing a metaphorical parallel to the drink nepenthe, which is supposed to help one forget painful memories. The conversation shifts to the poem 'The Raven,' and Haymitch reveals his knowledge of it, surprising Plutarch. The mood is disrupted by the sudden appearance of President Snow, visibly ill and in distress. Plutarch and Haymitch assist the president, and Haymitch, emboldened by Snow's weakened state, secretly drinks the milk intended for him, a defiant act of rebellion.

Recovering somewhat, President Snow engages Haymitch in a conversation about District 12 and Lenore Dove. Snow demonstrates his extensive knowledge of the Covey and their naming traditions, revealing a deep understanding of Haymitch's personal life. Snow threatens Haymitch, warning him that his behavior will determine the manner of his death in the arena and the safety of his family and Lenore. Haymitch is forced to confront the reality of his situation and the power Snow holds over him. The chapter concludes with Snow's ominous declaration and the unexpected reappearance of Louella McCoy, thought to be dead.

Still reeling from the encounter in the conservatory, Haymitch is brought to a lavish dining room where he meets a woman claiming to be Louella McCoy. However, it quickly becomes apparent that this is a body double, likely created by President Snow to replace the real Louella, who died in the chariot crash. The fake Louella is clearly drugged and programmed, struggling to interact normally. Mags and Wiress, noticing her condition, try to care for her and understand what has happened. Meanwhile, Beetee and Wiress reveal a daring plan to sabotage the arena's computer system by flooding it with water, a strategy that could disable the entire system. Haymitch, despite the risks, agrees to the plan, driven by the potential to outmaneuver the Capitol.

Following the confrontation with Beetee and the revelation of the plan to sabotage the arena, Haymitch grapples with the enormity of the task ahead. Beetee explains the intricate details of the arena's design, including the water tank that can be used to flood the computer system, effectively disabling it. Haymitch is tasked with finding a mutt portal, accessing the utility corridors, and blowing a hole in the tank. Despite the dangers, Haymitch agrees to the plan, driven by the potential to outsmart the Capitol and honor Lenore Dove's memory.

The next morning, the tributes must deal with the presence of the fake Louella, now known as Lou Lou. Wiress suspects Lou Lou has an audio implant, and the group decides to treat her as a jabberjay, feeding her false information. During training, Maysilee and Haymitch successfully mend a shattered sunflower token for Kerna from District 9, gaining the trust of the district and securing their alliance. The Newcomers now consist of tributes from Districts 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11, forming a strong coalition against the Careers.

As the private sessions with the Gamemakers approach, the tributes strategize on how to present themselves. Haymitch decides to portray himself as a self-centered tribute who is solely focused on winning and returning to District 12. During his session, he boldly tells the Gamemakers about his illegal reaping and his determination to win, hoping to appear unthreatening yet focused. However, his efforts seem to backfire, as he receives a score of one, the lowest possible, indicating the Gamemakers' deep skepticism of his intentions.

The chapter ends with the tributes receiving their scores, with the Newcomers generally scoring lower than the Careers. Haymitch's low score of one reflects the Gamemakers' skepticism of his intentions, adding to the tension and uncertainty as the tributes prepare for the Games.

Still reeling from their disappointing training scores, Haymitch, Maysilee, and Wyatt struggle to understand the implications of their low scores and how to present themselves in the upcoming interviews. Haymitch, with his score of one, is particularly concerned about his image and the lack of potential sponsors. Mags and Wiress advise him to embrace his distinctiveness, suggesting that being memorable could be an asset.

Drusilla, the reaping official, pushes the tributes to stand out, emphasizing the importance of making an impression on the audience. Wyatt, using his skills as an oddsmaker, impresses Drusilla by analyzing the odds of various tributes, positioning himself as the smart choice for bettors. Maysilee, taking a risky approach, criticizes the Capitol's fashion and lifestyle, ensuring she will be remembered for her boldness.

The atmosphere is further complicated by the erratic behavior of Magno Stift, their stylist, who is found in a delirious state, possibly due to toad venom. Drusilla, furious, storms out to file a complaint with the Gamemakers, leaving the tributes and their prep teams in a state of disarray. The prep teams, overwhelmed by the potential impact on their careers, are more concerned with their own futures than the tributes' imminent deaths.

Despite the chaos, Mags and Wiress try to maintain a semblance of order, focusing the tributes on their interviews. The arrival of the Capitol's stylists, including a flamboyant woman with lavender hair, adds to the surreal and chaotic environment, setting the stage for the tributes' final moments before entering the arena.

Proserpina's sister, Effie Trinket, arrives to assist with the tributes' interview preparations, bringing a collection of vintage clothing from her great-aunt Messalina. The tributes, especially Haymitch, are transformed into stylish and memorable figures, a stark contrast to their usual appearance. Effie’s presence brings a much-needed boost to the team's morale and provides a temporary distraction from the grim reality of their situation.

During the interview preparations, Haymitch decides to adopt a 'rascal' persona, inspired by the fashion and the bootlegger angle. He plans to portray himself as a troublemaker and a clever, self-reliant tribute, hoping to attract sponsors and deflect attention from his true intentions. Meanwhile, Beetee secretly meets with Haymitch and provides crucial information about the plan to sabotage the arena, including the location of the mutt portal and the details of the explosive devices hidden in the sunflower tokens from District 9.

The interviews begin, and the Careers, particularly Panache, are ridiculed by Caesar Flickerman, making them appear foolish and arrogant. The Newcomers, in contrast, present themselves as a united and intelligent alliance, emphasizing their strengths and strategies. Lou Lou, in a disturbing performance, accuses the Capitol of murdering the tributes, causing a tense and uncomfortable reaction from the audience. Haymitch’s interview is a hit, as he plays the rascal role to perfection, garnering significant support from the audience.

After the interviews, Plutarch invites the District 12 team to his mansion for a photo shoot, under the guise of creating promotional material. In the conservatory, Haymitch receives a surprising call from Lenore Dove, who is distraught and seeking reassurance. This unexpected contact leaves Haymitch deeply moved and more determined to survive the Games and return to her.

Haymitch receives a phone call from Lenore Dove, who is being held at the Peacekeepers' base for playing forbidden songs in front of the Justice Building. Distraught and blaming herself for Haymitch's predicament, she is reassured by his words, promising they will find each other again. The call is abruptly cut off, leaving Haymitch shaken but relieved that Lenore is safe.

Plutarch reveals that he arranged the call, risking his own safety to help Haymitch. He then shares crucial information about the arena, including the synchronization of the sun with the real world and the presence of berms that may conceal mutt portals. Haymitch is skeptical but intrigued, wondering if Plutarch is truly an ally or a Capitol spy. Plutarch emphasizes the importance of controlling the narrative and suggests that the tributes should challenge the Capitol's control by breaking the arena.

Back at the apartment, the tributes and mentors discuss strategies for the upcoming Games. Plutarch advises them to appeal to the Capitol audience's emotions rather than logic, and they brainstorm a nickname for the Careers, settling on 'Near Beer Careers.' The group works on a piece for the propos, where Haymitch introduces the nickname, and the others contribute their own variations. Despite the camaraderie, Haymitch reveals to Maysilee and Wyatt that he plans to go off on his own, believing his low score and the Capitol's targeting of him make him a liability to the group.

That night, Haymitch is haunted by dreams of Lenore Dove, the haunting lines of 'The Raven' echoing through his mind. The poem's ominous 'Nevermore' lingers, casting a shadow over his thoughts of reunion and the uncertain future.

The night before the Hunger Games is a mix of exhaustion and dread for Haymitch, Maysilee, and Wyatt. They wash up and put on their old training outfits, as they won't be dressed until they're in the holding pens at the arena. Maysilee is upset with Haymitch for deciding to go off on his own, but he slips her Beetee’s birthday gift as a peace offering, which she accepts without acknowledgment.

A tense breakfast follows, with Lou Lou eating voraciously, confirming her detachment from reality. Wiress gives last-minute pointers, and Mags hugs each tribute, acknowledging the grim reality that at least three of them won’t return. Drusilla completes her duties, ensuring the tributes are searched and loaded into a van, where they are injected with trackers. The tributes are then taken to a runway and loaded into a hovercraft, where they are strapped in alongside District 11. Lou Lou, seemingly unaware of her surroundings, begins singing a harvest song from District 11, leading to a conversation about her origins. The tributes from District 11, including Chicory, express concern and curiosity about Lou Lou’s past, but Maysilee confirms that she is a Capitol-imposed replacement for the real Louella.

The hovercraft lands, and the tributes are escorted to their launch rooms. Haymitch, Maysilee, and Wyatt share a final group hug before being separated. Haymitch is alone in his circular room with a transparent tube, changing into his arena clothes. A Capitol attendant checks his outfit, ensuring his token is visible, and promises to deliver it to Lenore Dove. As the tube rises, Haymitch focuses on the arena, a seemingly idyllic meadow with colorful flowers and songbirds. He recalls Wiress’s instructions and decides to head north, where the woods are located, to avoid the initial slaughter at the Cornucopia.

The gong sounds, and Haymitch sprints for a spring-green backpack, snatching a spear and a knife along the way. He runs toward the woods, avoiding the Careers and locking eyes with Kerna for a moment. The screams of the dying tributes begin, but Haymitch forces himself to keep running. He reaches the forest, where he finds a berm, confirming Plutarch’s information. The woods are lush and abundant, but Haymitch grows suspicious of the perfect conditions. After drinking from a stream, he witnesses a rabbit die suddenly, realizing the environment is not as harmless as it appears. He continues north, determined to find the mutt portal and execute the plan to sabotage the arena.

Still reeling from the previous night's events, Haymitch realizes he has been poisoned by the stream water and suffers intense pain. He uses charcoal tablets from his pack to counteract the poison, which gradually eases his symptoms. However, he remains weak and disoriented, questioning the safety of the food and drink in the arena. He deduces that most of the natural resources are toxic and that the contents of the backpacks are the only safe sources of sustenance.

Nightfall brings the projection of the fallen tributes, revealing that sixteen Newcomers and four Careers have died. Among the deceased is Wyatt Callow, which deeply affects Haymitch. The next morning, Haymitch is startled by a rabbit and then by Lou Lou, who appears disheveled and insists on finding him. Despite the complications she brings, Haymitch decides to take care of her, feeling responsible for her safety.

Haymitch and Lou Lou journey north, with Haymitch teaching her to avoid the poisonous fruit. He successfully creates fire using a sparking rock and quartz, promising baked potatoes for their meal. After eating, they continue their search for a mutt portal. Lou Lou becomes fascinated by a berm covered with bee balm flowers, but the pollen triggers a severe allergic reaction, leading to her agonizing death. Haymitch, enraged and helpless, pleads with the Gamemakers to end her suffering, ultimately freeing her from the implanted pump.

Still reeling from the loss of Lou Lou, Haymitch carries her body deep into the densest trees, determined to defy the Capitol by preventing the Gamemakers from retrieving it. However, he soon realizes that this act of defiance may be playing into President Snow's hands, jeopardizing his chances of sabotaging the arena. In a moment of desperation, he flees from the Gamemakers' butterfly mutts, which deliver excruciating electric shocks. Using his wits, Haymitch creates a fire with gas plants, incinerating the butterflies and escaping their attack. This encounter leads him to discover a mutt berm, a crucial element in his plan to sabotage the arena. Marking his path with notches in trees, he sets out to find Ampert, the key to the plan.

Upon finding Ampert, Haymitch learns about the Newcomers' struggles and the deaths of several tributes, including Wyatt, who was killed by Panache. Despite his initial reluctance, he agrees to help Ampert and the Newcomers, providing a tour of the woods and sharing vital survival information. This interaction deepens their bond and solidifies Haymitch's resolve to complete the mission. As night falls, Haymitch prepares for the nighttime bombing, gathering wood and setting up the fire site, all the while reflecting on the grim reality of his situation and the possibility of a quick, merciful death.

Still reeling from the intense battle with the butterfly mutts, Haymitch and Ampert spend a quiet evening by the fire, discussing survival tactics and ways to mislead the Gamemakers. Haymitch reflects on the protective properties of their clothing and the potential dangers lurking in the arena. Ampert begins to unweave his token, ostensibly preparing a snare, but secretly readies the blasting cap and fuse for the planned sabotage.

After a brief period of rest, they set out to execute their plan. Haymitch uses his spear to pry open the berm, revealing a utility ladder leading down to the water tank. Ampert holds the torch while Haymitch descends, places the explosive, and lights the fuse. As he ascends, he encounters genetically engineered bat mutts, which he manages to fend off with a torch and a makeshift belt anchor.

Once above ground, Haymitch searches for Ampert but finds no sign of him. He hears a strange chattering and discovers a clearing filled with carnivorous squirrel mutts feasting on Ampert's remains. Overwhelmed with rage and grief, Haymitch attacks the mutts, but they are programmed to target Ampert alone. After the mutts depart, Haymitch is left with Ampert's skeleton and a deep sense of loss.

In a fit of rage, Haymitch begins to destroy the arena, chopping at the flora and fauna. The arena starts to malfunction, with the sky flickering and natural elements behaving erratically. Realizing the success of their plan, Haymitch celebrates their victory, but the celebration is short-lived as the mountain erupts in a deadly display, signaling the continuation of the Games.

Overwhelmed with despair and self-doubt after the volcano eruption, which he believes has killed all the other tributes, Haymitch reflects on his failures and the futility of his actions, questioning his ability to challenge the Capitol. Despite his initial urge to give up, he remembers Mags’s words about protecting her district partner and decides to try to help any surviving Newcomers. He gathers his remaining supplies and heads north, determined to find the generator and potentially escape the arena.

As he travels through the forest, a light rain provides fresh water, which he collects and uses to wash off the volcanic ash. The forest appears refreshed, but Haymitch remains cautious and hungry. Upon reaching the northern edge of the forest, he finds a dense hedge that seems impenetrable. He navigates through the twisting paths of the hedge, becoming increasingly lost and panicked. Just as he is about to give up, a gray rabbit leads him out of the maze and back into the forest.

Emerging from the hedge, Haymitch is ambushed by the Careers. In a sudden, reflexive burst of action, he manages to kill two of them but faces off against Panache, the leader. Despite his exhaustion and the overwhelming odds, Haymitch tries to talk his way out of the situation, appealing to Panache’s sense of image and strategy. Panache, however, is determined to end Haymitch’s life. Just as Panache is about to strike, a dart pierces his throat, saving Haymitch.

Still reeling from the harrowing experience in the hedge maze, Haymitch and Maysilee form an alliance after Maysilee saves Haymitch from Panache using her blowgun. The cannon fires, confirming the deaths of the Careers, and Haymitch reflects on the brutality of his actions. Maysilee tends to his wounds, and they share a moment of mutual respect and gratitude, solidifying their bond.

As the night falls, they receive a gift of bean and ham hock soup, which Mags sent to comfort them. The soup reminds them of home and the support they still have outside the arena. They discuss the remaining tributes and the arena's malfunction, which has affected the landscape. Maysilee reveals she has killed two tributes, and Haymitch shares his own experiences, both feeling the weight of their actions.

The next morning, they decide to head north, with Haymitch leading the way. They find the Careers' hidden supplies and gather food and equipment, including a blowtorch and a second tarp. Maysilee prepares a makeshift water-catching device, showcasing her resourcefulness. They discuss their strategy for finding the other Newcomers and dealing with the remaining Careers. Maysilee's resourcefulness and Haymitch's determination to head north hint at a deeper plan.

Reaching the hedge, they discover it is a maze filled with mutated ladybugs that attach to their skin and explode, causing painful injuries. Despite the setback, they push through, determined to uncover what lies on the other side of the hedge. The chapter ends with the two of them navigating the dangerous and unpredictable terrain, their bond strengthening as they face the challenges of the arena together.

Still reeling from the mutated ladybug attack, Haymitch and Maysilee are left in a weakened state, covered in blood and struggling to recover. Despite their exhaustion, they decide to head south towards the Cornucopia to gather more supplies, solidifying their bond as they reflect on the brutal nature of the Games and the impact on their families and communities.

As they trudge through the forest, Maysilee detects a strange noise, which they initially mistake for a baby. Upon closer inspection, they discover a massive, mutated porcupine attacking two Newcomers, Hull and Chicory. The porcupine is equipped with metal quills that it can shoot, and it has already inflicted severe injuries. Haymitch and Maysilee devise a plan to use their tarps as shields and attempt to neutralize the porcupine. Despite initial setbacks, they manage to lure the porcupine away with olives, allowing them to reach Hull and administer the antidote. However, Hull succumbs to his injuries, and the hovercraft retrieves the bodies of the fallen tributes.

In the aftermath, Haymitch and Maysilee reflect on the necessity of one of them surviving to challenge the Capitol. They swear an oath to be the worst victors in history, vowing to disrupt the Capitol's plans and honor their fallen allies. They share a meal and take turns keeping watch, with Maysilee singing a childhood lullaby to help Haymitch fall asleep. The chapter ends with Haymitch connecting the dots between the ladybug song, the maze, and the blowtorch, realizing a potential solution to navigate the hedge.

Haymitch and Maysilee, still recovering from their encounter with the mutated ladybugs, enjoy a luxurious breakfast of fresh corn bread, buttermilk, and peaches, prepared by Maysilee. Haymitch reflects on his continued survival and the Capitol's reasons for keeping him alive, suspecting it might be due to his popularity. Maysilee's decorative setup of the breakfast, complete with flower napkins and a bowl of pink blossoms, is part of her campaign to show the Capitol their value and humanity.

As they discuss their next move, Haymitch steers Maysilee towards heading north again, despite her doubts. He convinces her by suggesting they explore the hedge maze for potential advantages, like using the ladybugs as a weapon against the Careers. While moving through the forest, they hear a high-pitched whine, initially mistaking it for a natural sound. Realizing it's a threat, they decide to investigate, hoping to use it against their pursuers.

Suddenly, they encounter three Gamemakers in the middle of the forest, working on a berm covered in scarlet poppies. The Gamemakers, surprised and intimidated, attempt to retreat. The Careers, Silka and Maritte, burst into the clearing and attack the Gamemakers, killing two of them. The hovercraft drops bombs, releasing tear gas, forcing Haymitch and Maysilee to flee. They manage to escape and regroup, with Maysilee furious at Haymitch for freezing during the encounter.

Maysilee vents her anger, questioning Haymitch's commitment to their alliance. Haymitch apologizes and admits his hesitation, acknowledging his shortcomings. Maysilee, after calming down, shares a personal story about her grandmother, reflecting on her wisdom and the song she used to sing. They decide to continue their mission to break the arena, and Haymitch uses the blowtorch to burn through the dense hedge, creating a narrow tunnel. Emerging on a cliff overlooking a generator, their ultimate goal, they find it inaccessible due to the steep drop and rocky terrain. Despite the setback, they remain determined to find a way to sabotage the arena.

Following the confrontation with the Careers and the ambush, Haymitch and Maysilee reach a cliff overlooking the generator, only to find it protected by an impenetrable force field. Feeling defeated, Haymitch decides to stay at the cliff’s edge, refusing to return to the arena. Maysilee, understanding the futility, agrees to say their goodbyes, but they both hesitate, unsure if splitting up is the right decision. Suddenly, Maysilee begins to scream. Haymitch rushes to her aid and finds her under attack by a swarm of genetically engineered waterbirds with pink feathers and deadly beaks. Despite his efforts to fend them off, Maysilee is mortally wounded. In her final moments, she locks pinkies with Haymitch, reaffirming their promise to challenge the Capitol. The hovercraft retrieves her body, leaving Haymitch devastated and alone.

Numb with grief, Haymitch receives a parachute containing strawberry ice cream and black coffee, a poignant reminder of Maysilee’s sass and a directive to stay positive. He consolidates his supplies in Maysilee’s backpack and discovers a hidden potato-light kit. Reflecting on the deaths of the Gamemakers and the remaining tributes, Haymitch decides to find and protect Wellie, the last Newcomer, to ensure the crown doesn’t go to a Career. He calls out for Wellie, following the sound of a bicycle bell that leads him to a tree where Wellie is perched, weakened by starvation.

Haymitch climbs the tree to reach Wellie, giving her water and coaxing her to drink. As a heavy rainstorm begins, he secures her to a branch with a tarp and blankets. He constructs a makeshift light using the potato-light kit, which provides comfort to Wellie. Later, a parachute delivers warm vanilla pudding and chocolate balls. Haymitch feeds Wellie and shares the treats, dropping some for Silka, who is crying at the base of the tree. The chapter concludes with a rare moment of solidarity, as the last three tributes find a fragile sense of unity around the tree.

Haunted by the deaths of Louella, Ampert, and Maysilee, Haymitch is left weak and weary. He feels cheated and shallow, unable to properly grieve. Checking on Wellie, who is sleeping peacefully on her branch, he decides to bake a potato for her to eat. As he examines the black smudges on his fingers, he realizes that Maysilee’s token necklace contains a hidden blasting cap, a backup to Ampert’s fuse.

Determined to make a final stand, Haymitch decides to use the Cornucopia as his target, planning to lure Silka there and blow it up. He convinces Wellie to stay hidden behind a tree covered in wild grapevines, arming her with Maysilee’s blowgun. While foraging for dry wood, a parachute delivers an ornate picnic basket with a pitcher of milk. Torn between seeing it as a genuine gift from Plutarch or a trap from President Snow, Haymitch suspects the milk is poisoned.

Despite his suspicions, Haymitch drinks the milk, accepting his fate as a pawn in Snow’s game. The cannon fires, and he rushes back to find Silka holding Wellie’s decapitated head. Enraged, Haymitch engages in a brutal ax battle with Silka. Despite his injuries, he manages to gouge out one of her eyes and eventually kills her by using the force field to send her own ax back at her. Mortally wounded, Haymitch prepares to detonate the blasting cap, determined to go out with a final act of defiance.

With his last strength, Haymitch launches the sunflower bomb into the canyon, causing a massive explosion that shakes the arena. He dies content, believing he will find Lenore Dove and that his final act will be a powerful statement against the Capitol.

Haymitch awakens in a laboratory, disoriented and restrained, with no memory of how he got there. Naked and covered in tubes, he is surrounded by Avoxes pressing against the glass and a gray rabbit in a tank. The environment is terrifying, and he is subjected to various treatments and pain, with no daylight or allies. He realizes he is being kept alive for some purpose, likely as a spectacle for the Capitol.

Days pass in this isolated state, with Haymitch oscillating between moments of clarity and delirium. He reflects on the consequences of his actions in the arena and worries about the fate of his loved ones and allies. The Capitol’s manipulation is evident in the curated clips of old Hunger Games shown to him, which include a haunting performance by a Covey girl, leading Haymitch to speculate about her connection to President Snow and the Capitol.

Haymitch’s mental state deteriorates, and he lashes out, smashing a chair and shattering glass. Peacekeepers intervene, and his prep team and Magno Stift appear. Effie Trinket, showing unexpected compassion, helps him prepare for the Victor’s Ceremony. Despite his ragged appearance and the scars of his ordeal, Haymitch is dressed in a fine ensemble and escorted to the ceremony, where he is shackled and guarded.

At the ceremony, the audience gives Haymitch a standing ovation, and he is forced to bare his scar for all to see. The recap of the Hunger Games is heavily edited, portraying him as a selfish, ruthless competitor and erasing the alliances and sabotage. Haymitch is mortified by the manipulation, but the audience accepts the version as truth. President Snow crowns Haymitch, and the weight of the crown symbolizes his entrapment. Haymitch awaits his punishment, aware that Snow has won the day.

Following his victory in the Hunger Games, Haymitch is displayed in a golden birdcage at the after-party in the presidential mansion, subjected to public humiliation as part of President Snow’s plan to control him. Despite his desperate attempts to appear compliant, Haymitch is tormented by the thought of Lenore Dove’s fate and the condition of his family. Plutarch Heavensbee informs him that Lenore is still on the base and has not been released, shattering Haymitch’s hopes and deepening his despair.

After a week of parading around the Capitol, Haymitch is finally transported back to District 12. Upon arrival, he is met with a devastating sight: his house is engulfed in flames, and his mother and brother are trapped inside. Despite his frantic efforts to save them, he is restrained by his neighbors, who tell him that Ma and Sid are already dead. The community, including Burdock and Blair, tries to console him, but Haymitch is overwhelmed by grief and guilt. A sedative is administered to help him cope with the trauma.

The next day, Haymitch attends the funeral for Ma, Sid, Louella, Maysilee, and Wyatt. The community’s support is evident, but the weight of his loss is almost unbearable. Burdock sings a consoling song, and the mockingjays join in, providing a moment of solace. Haymitch is then taken to the Victor’s Village, where he is left to grieve alone. Overwhelmed by the loss of his home and family, Haymitch realizes that the fire was arson, ordered by President Snow as a message and punishment for his actions in the arena.

Determined to save Lenore Dove, Haymitch sneaks out of the Victor’s Village and heads to the Meadow, where he hopes to meet her. When he finally sees her, they share a moment of joy and relief, but their happiness is short-lived. Haymitch notices that the gumdrops he had sent her are red and realizes they are poisoned. Despite his efforts to get her to spit out the gumdrop, Lenore Dove collapses, and Haymitch is powerless to save her. In her final moments, she asks him not to let the sun rise on the reaping, a poignant and tragic request that leaves Haymitch devastated and alone.

Consumed by guilt and grief over Lenore Dove’s death, Haymitch isolates himself in the Victor’s Village, driving away anyone who tries to help, including Blair and Burdock. His only human contact is the weekly delivery of victor winnings and supplies from the Peacekeepers. Haymitch’s descent into alcoholism and despair deepens, as he struggles to fulfill his promise to Lenore to prevent the sun from rising on another reaping.

One morning, while wandering the desolate streets, Haymitch discovers a rebel message spray-painted in an alley: 'NO CAPITOL, NO HANGING TREE!' This message, coupled with a vivid memory of Maysilee and the orange paint on her nails, convinces him that Lenore Dove is sending him a sign. Determined to honor his promise, Haymitch begins to search for Lenore’s grave in the woods, eventually finding it in a hidden grove. He spends days lying on her grave, begging for forgiveness and a sign to release him from his promise.

Haymitch’s life takes a turn when he is forced to participate in the Victory Tour. Effie Trinket, his new escort, tries to keep him sober and presentable. During the tour, Haymitch meets with Plutarch Heavensbee in District 11, who reveals that the Capitol is still watching and manipulating events. Plutarch appeals to Haymitch’s intelligence and courage, asking for his help in the ongoing resistance against the Capitol. Despite his initial reluctance, Haymitch begins to see the possibility of a different future, one where he can fight back and honor Lenore’s memory.

Upon returning to District 12, Haymitch continues to struggle with his grief and the weight of his promise. He remains isolated, drinking heavily and avoiding human contact. However, the memory of Sid’s birthday greeting and the realization that he will mentor new tributes every year serve as a grim reminder of his ongoing struggle. Haymitch’s internal conflict and the external pressures from the Capitol and the resistance set the stage for his future actions.

Haymitch reflects on his relationship with Lenore Dove, who now appears to him as an older, wiser version of herself, suggesting she has forgiven him. Despite fulfilling his promise to prevent the sun from rising on another reaping, Lenore tells him he must continue to care for his family. This marks a shift in Haymitch’s focus from self-destructive isolation to a renewed sense of responsibility and hope.

Memories of his first encounter with Katniss, carried around by Burdock, resurface. After Burdock’s death, Katniss began visiting the Hob alone, displaying traits reminiscent of Louella McCoy. Initially resistant to forming a bond with Katniss and Peeta, Haymitch eventually opened up, sharing stories of his loved ones in the memorial book. This act of remembrance and storytelling marks a significant step in his healing process.

Katniss brings Haymitch a basket of goose eggs, not for eating but for hatching, symbolizing a new beginning. Peeta builds an incubator, and the goslings imprint on Haymitch, creating a bond that ties him to the present and the future. On nice days, they visit the Meadow, a place where Lenore Dove feels most at peace, and Haymitch finds contentment in her presence. This suggests a deep, enduring connection that transcends physical death.

Haymitch acknowledges his declining health, admitting his liver is damaged and his drinking is more out of habit than to forget. He accepts his mortality but is certain that the Capitol cannot take Lenore Dove from him again. Their love, expressed through the phrase 'I love you like all-fire,' is a testament to the strength and purity of their bond, a final affirmation of their enduring love and the resilience of the human spirit.