Work Text:
Bdubs crouched in the alley, tilting his head to see into the square where the Reaping was taking place, struggling to catch his breath after the sprint to get there, still he was late. As he panicked, knowing soon they would begin looking for him, he slowly approached one of the Peacekeepers guarding the alley to stop any runner.
“Excuse me, I- was late… I’m sorry.”
The Peacekeeper, a tall muscular woman, looked down on him, lifting her visor for a moment to better look at his face.
“What’s your name?“
“Bdubs…“
“Come here, Bdubs. I’ll help you.”
Bdubs took a few hesitant steps towards her, hoping that she would sneak him in. Instead as soon as he was close enough, she grabbed both his arms and gripped tightly, immobilizing him in front of her, so he could see the square clearly.
“You see, the problem with you District scum, is that you believe that you can get away with anything so long as you’re young and innocent looking. Oh but I know, none of you are innocents. All murderers, waiting for the right moment to strike.”
As his eyes filled up with tears, both from terror and pain, Bdubs could only shake his head, as the woman's hand covered his mouth.
“No? You’re disagreeing with me? Fine. See what happens after the Reaping.“
But his punishment didn’t have to wait until after the ceremony was done, because just in that moment from the stage came the name of the District 5 Tribute.
“The District 5 Tribute for the 149th Life Games is: Bdubs!“
He shook and squirmed in the Peacekeepers hold, but she chuckled and lifted him up, walking into the square and towards the stage.
“I got him. A bit of an runner, this one! Tried to sneak past me to get out. Keep a close eye on him.“
She said loudly as she plonked him onto the podium, where Bdubs stayed completely still, shaking like a leaf. Until soon after two more Peacekeepers came up to him to flank him, but they were stopped by the Capitol Escort who had been staring at the scene in disbelief until that moment.
“Chill out. I’m sure he won’t try to run again. Right buddy?“
Skizz gently placed a hand on Bdubs shoulder, turning him around to face the crowd.
“An applause for our very own District 5 Tribute, Bdubs. Who I’m sure will put his skills to use in the arena instead.“
And with that he guided him into the Justice Building, away from the confused gaze of the crowd.