Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The train arrived in 12 as the sun was beginning to rise. Yuuri hadn't spoken to anyone since he boarded, and Viktor wasn't particularly bothered by it. The Capitol nurses had him pumped full of Morphling to the point he couldn't feel a thing, physically or mentally. He understood how people got addicted to it. 

As they disembarked the train, Yuuri was ushered through to a vehicle while Viktor was violently pulled aside, the papers from the Capitol torn from his hand. One of the Peacekeepers read them over with a laugh, before giving them back to Viktor with instructions to see the Corporal later that afternoon for his official transfer. Viktor nodded and was led to the vehicle Yuuri had climbed into.

When they pulled into the Victor's Village, Yuuri's family had already been moved into the house beside Minako's, and they were waiting outside for his arrival. Viktor would be living across the street.

Of course there was no one waiting for him.

"Oh, my Yuuri," Viktor heard as Yuuri's mom enveloped him in a tight hug.

"I can't believe you won, little brother," The woman next to her added as she wrapped her arms around him.

Not wanting to disturb the reunion, Viktor made his way to his new home. 

It was bright inside the house, but there was an air of emptiness to it. A building far too big for one man alone. The letter given to him by the Capitol sat ruminating in his mind and he thought about how the woman had told Yuuri he ‘won.’

Viktor was starting to realize, no one really wins. There will always be a condition to your survival. He saw that now. He could live with his, he had to, but he feared what Yuuri’s would be.

He made his way up to the bedrooms and chose the room overlooking the front of the house. He saw a figure move in the same room opposite his, before they drew the curtains. Viktor laid back on the bed, his morphing finally wore off and he was exhausted. It was still early morning, so he would have plenty of time to make it to the Justice Building before they closed for the night.

When he woke up again it appeared to be late afternoon. He dressed in clothes given to him by the Capitol, something seen as a gift in 1, but something that would further ostracize him from the citizens of 12. 

When he stepped out of his house he saw the young woman, Yuuri's older sister, outside. When she saw Viktor she gave him an uninterested once over and went back into the house. Viktor hadn't realized it yet but that was the best treatment he would receive from anyone on his way to the Justice Building. 

His walk from the village to the Seam was peaceful, but once he hit the strip, people began to notice his presence. His cleanliness, clothes, and overall appearance made him stick out amongst the groups. People glared and spat around him, some people even shouted things at him. Viktor took it all in stride, keeping his head high and his steps heavy. He didn't blame the people for their hatred. Being from District 1 was as good as being from the Capitol and Viktor's allies in the game had killed one of their tributes. 

Once the novelty of his arrival had worn off and he made it to the merchant village, people lost interest in him and just ignored him altogether.

Upon reaching the Justice Building he was ushered into a waiting room to meet with the Mayor and Corporal Officer. 

The mayor had little to no interest in Viktor aside from the money he would bring to the District. Both he and the officer read his papers with hearty laughs.

"Seems almost worse than death," The officer said handing the signed paperwork back to Viktor. "Congratulations," he sneered.

"Taxes are due at the first of the month. No exceptions, Victor," The mayor said, and Viktor didn't miss the jest in his name and status. 

Viktor nodded and took his leave. The secretary had him wait in the lobby as his new identification paperwork was filed and copied. As he gathered everything from her and left out the door he was immediately shoved into the dirt by some locals who laughed and walked away. A hand stretched out to him a moment later and he looked up to see Yuuri standing over him. 

"Thank you," he said, speaking to Yuuri for the first time since their arrival in 12. Viktor dusted off his pants as Yuuri replied.

"What are you wearing," He sighed incredulously. "It's like you're asking for them to hate you... Come wait for me and I'll walk back with you to the village."

Viktor didn't argue as he followed Yuuri back into the Justice Building.

"What are you doing here," Viktor asked as Yuuri sat down beside him, paperwork forms in hand. 

Yuuri stretched out the paper in his hand. At the top read "Civilian Information Change Request Form," and Yuuri had already checked the box for "Gender Identifier" at the top. Viktor nodded in understanding as Yuuri turned back to his work. Once he was finished he waited for his name to be called.

"What were you here for," Yuuri asked, breaking the awkward silence in the room.

Viktor repeated Yuuri's action, passing him the paperwork in his hand. He sat silently as Yuuri read the first page titled: "District Transfer Request," and held his breath as Yuuri continued to the next page. When Yuuri took a sharp inhale, Viktor knew he had read the Capitol's stipulations, he knew what it said and he knew what people thought when he read it.

"Viktor..." Yuuri started but he was interrupted by his name being called. Yuuri gave Viktor one last look of pity before standing up and walking into the office.

The appointment took all of 15 minutes but when Yuuri came out he looked exhausted. Viktor stepped up beside him as Yuuri waited for the secretary to file and copy his identification papers, but unlike Viktor's, Yuuri had to pay a sum of money that took even Viktor, raised in the luxury of District 1, aback. Yuuri paid it without a second thought and folded his new identification papers and shoved them in his pocket.

They quietly stepped out into the streets, and though heads turned once again, this time anything said was between whispers. 

Yuuri stopped at one of the Merchants before they made their way through past the Seam and back to the Viktor's Village. Once they were away from any prying citizens, Viktor broke the silence again.

"I don't think these people quite like me."

"Well yeah, obviously," Yuuri replied, "They think you volunteered to kill kids."

There wasn't an auditory emphasis on 'think' but Viktor knew it was there.

"They'll get used to you... Eventually," He added, turning back to face ahead.

Viktor nodded as they walked back to their houses in silence.

"Good night, Yuuri. Congratulations," Viktor said before they departed, channeling as much sarcasm as he could into the sentiment.

"Oh, haha. Thank you. You too," Yuuri replied.

Viktor smiled as well and split off to return to his new home, alone.

Chapter Text

Viktor woke up to a pounding on the door. He groaned and pulled himself out of bed. All his muscles ached from misuse as he chose to spend most his days sheltered away in his home or drinking with Minako. Today was the start of his and Yuuri's Victory tour. 

Viktor opened the door to a more than annoyed Phichit, Celestino not far behind him.

"If you haven't noticed, Nikiforov, it's cold," Phichit grumbled, no actual malice in his voice.

"Right, come in."

"Today's the day! Celestino has an outfit for you and no fancy makeup today so we should be in and out." Phichit pushed Viktor into a seat in his small dining area and began to mess with his hair. "At lease you know what a hairbrush is, unlike Yuuri."  He stepped back after a moment, deeming Viktor's hair appropriate and he pushed the bag Celestino brought into Viktor's arms. "Go, go!"

After he was dressed, Phichit made final adjustments to Viktor's outfit. Celestino had left, presumably to assist Yuuri with any last minute wardrobe adjustments as well.

"Have you guys talked since you got here," Phichit asked, breaking the silence in the house.

"No," Viktor responded.

Phichit nodded, "Well. Let's hope you both are as good at acting as you are at being idiots... You're ready to go."

"Thank you," Victor said quietly and steeled himself against the door. Phichit counted down before the door swung open and Viktor was ushered out of the house.

Bright lights shone on his face as his breath fogged in front of him. He distantly heard Stephane speaking but he couldn't focus, his eyes pulled to Yuuri.

He looked comfortably handsome in the outfit Celestino had picked. Far lee sensual and revealing as anything else he had worn, but it was to be expected given their location and the weather.

Yuuri's eyes only met Viktor's for a second before watching his feet as they made their way towards one another. When they were within touching distance, Yuuri looked up.

"Hi," Viktor whispered only for Yuuri's ears.

"Hey," Yuuri replied quietly back. They shifted to face the cameras, but Yuuri's foot hit a patch of ice, and he tumbled down, taking Viktor with him.

Victor laughed down at Yuuri as he brushed his hair back out of his face.

Stephane called over the camera with a laugh and Viktor was pulled out of Yuuri's eyes and back to the present.

He laughed as he helped Yuuri to his feet and wrapped a secure arm around his waist to keep him steady.

"Seems like you two are closer than ever," Stephane laughed again.

Viktor looked down to Yuuri who nodded. His cheeks were flushed and he was tense in Viktor's arms.

"Thanks to the Capitol's generosity, that's true now more than ever. With Viktor here in 12."

"That's right. Viktor is a citizen of District 12 now. Big adjustment, how are you fairing?"

Viktor put on his best media smile, "It's much colder here, that's for sure."

"Oh, I bet," Stephane laughed.

"Now, the real question we all want to ask... How are things?"

"Good," Viktor smiled.

"...Good? That's all we get? Give us some details."

"Well, we're still getting all settled in, and the weather keeps us inside. We are looking forward to our Victory soon."

"I bet. Well, it was lovely to see you two again and I'm sure we will be seeing lots more of you soon."

Viktor and Yuuri waved until the cameras cut and Yuuri pulled away. 

"Good acting," Yuuri said.

"You too, almost thought it was real."

Phichit interrupted them with a call that their train would be leaving tomorrow evening at promptly 5 after midday.

Viktor and Yuuri parted ways and returned to their respective houses. 

Viktor hardly slept that night and when the sun came up he decided to give up trying altogether.

As he was making his morning coffee there was a knock at the door. Before he could get through the house to answer it though, the door sung open and guards walked in, followed by the president.

"Sir," Viktor said, standing straight.

"Viktor. How nice to see you. Perhaps we could have a chat."

Viktor nodded and led the President into the office. Guards shut the door behind them as the President made his way around the desk. He ran his finger along the dust and inspected it.

"How are you liking 12," He asked, turning back to face Viktor who still stood by the door.

"It's lovely, I'm very glad to be here."

"Oh Viktor, there is no need to lie to me. Please."

"I'm not lying," Viktor replied. 

The president didn't look amused, "And how is Yuuri. "

"He's fine. We're fine."

"I thought you were 'great,'" He said with a smile, throwing Viktor's words back at him. 

"We have all the money we could need and we live across the way from one another, what more could we ever need."

"Viktor, the districts may be filled with fools, hell even the Capitol, but I am not a fool."

"I'm not sure what you mean."

"You might think that Katsuki's little act , was one of love. That he truly could not live without you. You may have been fooled but not everyone sees it that way. You see, those who are not fools saw his little act as rebellion. If a nobody from Twelve and an elite from One can defy the Capitol then what is to deter say, an uprising. Is that what you want Viktor? I know how you feel about your own life, but what about Yuuri's. What about his family? The citizens of Twelve? Do you think they want to be in a war?"

"No sir."

"No, I'm sure they don't."

"What do you want us- me - to do."

"Convince them that you are nothing more than lovesick fools. Squash this idea of rebellion."

"I can convince them."

"No. Nikiforov. Convince me. For his sake. What is given can be taken away." The president fiddled with a pen on the desk, insinuating his executive signature. It didn't matter to him that Yuuri had played his game, with one signature, Yuuri would no longer legally be a man, everything that he did to get there taken away from him in an instant. Viktor swallowed and nodded. "Enjoy your tour." 

The President set the pen down on the desk and made his way out of the room. His guards following. Viktor sunk into a chair and ran a hand through his hair. The President's words circling through his head. He knew he should be focusing on the more important parts, the threats, but his heart had grasped on to the word fool.  

Was he really just a pawn in Yuuri's game, had he been fooled alongside the rest of the nation? 

Viktor felt sick. 

He needed a drink.

Chapter Text

Yuuri hardly spoke the entire ride to the train platform. Viktor couldn't feel offended when the entire thing felt too close to what it had been like the day of the reaping, though in District One, Viktor was sent off with celebration and pride.

They settled into the dining car and awaited the rest of the team. Once they were boarded the train took off. Phichit began running through the itinerary for the trip complete with celebrity treatment and relaxation.

"Enjoy this. You've earned it."

"Yeah, at the expense of 10 other kids," Yuuri mumbled next to Viktor. "I'm not hungry."

Yuuri pushed up from the table and walked off to the back car. Viktor gave him a moment before standing up as well.

"I'll talk to him."

Viktor followed Yuuri’s path and found him in the back lounge car, his head in his hands as his shoulders shook.

"Yuuri?"

Yuuri's eyes shot up as he wiped his tears, "Sorry, sorry. I just-"

"You don't need to explain yourself," Viktor interrupted and he crossed the room to sit down next to Yuuri. "And you don't need to apologize. Not to anyone, especially not me."

Yuuri looked up at Viktor.

"It's not fair of me to hold you to what you said and did in the games. You saved our lives, that should be enough. Anything else is foolish of me and I'm sorry if I've made you uncomfortable. I promise I don't expect anything real from you, but I would like for us to be friends."

Yuuri opened and closed his mouth a few times as if to speak before turning his gaze back down to his feet, "I can do friends."

"Good. Do you," Viktor hesitated. "Do you want to talk about it?"

Yuuri shook his head, "I think I'm just overwhelmed is all."

"To be expected. We will get through this."

Yuuri nodded, just as they began to pass through the tunnel leading them to District 11, their first stop.

District 11 was like District 12 in that it was one of the poorer District despite providing a majority of the food and agriculture to the nation. When the train reached the station, their team was ushered out onto the platform and into another vehicle. Phichit handed them cards as they stepped up onto the stage. The families of the fallen tributes stood elevated behind the crowd. Viktor felt Yuuri tense beside him and grabbed his hand for support.

Viktor did most the talking and even though it was stiff and filled with pro-Capitol junk, he made it through and before they knew it, they were on the train to District 10.

Things were uneventful until they arrived in District 8 on the 4th day of the tour.

"As usual, give a brief eulogy to the fallen tributes. For 8 that's Luis and... Minami."

Phichit handed out their cards and Yuuri's eyes read over the words. They hit a few bumps as they approached the Justice building and Yuuri's eyes flicked out of the window and then turned wildly to Viktor’s. Before either of them could speak they were being ushered into the building. Phichit did final touches on their appearances before stepping out. Viktor looked at Yuuri who was shaking.

"I don't think I can do this," he blinked, tears beginning to fill his eyes.

"Hey, it's okay, Yuuri.-" Viktor pushed himself across the room and reached for Yuuri's hands, but instead Yuuri fell into Viktor's arms, Viktor hesitated for only a moment before wrapping his arms around him. 

"I can't do this, please. I can't."

"Yuuri, deep breaths." Viktor said calmly as a shaky gasp tore its way through Yuuri. There was a knock at the door and Viktor released Yuuri to respond. He cracked the door open and asked the mayor to give them a few minutes before he turned back to Yuuri. "Come here." Viktor led Yuuri to the washroom and used a wet rag to calm the puffiness in his eyes, "You can get through this," He took Yuuri's cards from his hands, "I can do all the talking, okay? You'll be okay."

Yuuri nodded and Viktor tossed away the wet rag.

"Ready?"

"Yeah," Yuuri grabbed Viktor's hand as they made their way to the main hall and were ushered onto the stage. Viktor felt Yuuri's grip tighten at the large moving picture of Minami behind his family. His mother was crying, surrounded by three younger kids.  Viktor looked over to Yuuri to see his eyes fixated in their direction. He gave his hand a squeeze before lifting the cards and reading the dry speech from them. As they finished and Viktor went to exit the stage, Yuuri let go and stepped up to the mic.

"I wanted to say that Minami was more than just my ally. He saved me more than once. If there was anything I could do, if I could make it him on this stage instead of me, I would. When I looked at Minami it was like looking into the past and seeing myself, younger, happier, hopeful. I couldn't save him. I'm so sorry," Yuuri was in tears now as someone in the front of the crowd raised their hand in honor, a three finger salute used in District 12. The crowd behind him slowly followed suit as Peacekeepers pushed through the crowd to pull the man out as Viktor and Yuuri were quickly ushered off stage. 

The man dropped onto his knees in front of the guards and Yuuri fought against his restraints, "No, no! Leave him alone, please!"

The doors closed as a gun went off and Yuuri let out a sob as he collapsed to the ground. Minako had him standing before his knees even hit and was hauling him up the steps, Viktor close behind.

"I didn't mean for anyone to get hurt. I'm so sorry," Yuuri sobbed. "He has to know, I didn't mean anything I just wanted to say sorry. I knew I couldn't do this. Fuck, I just want to go home," Yuuri was rambling, his thoughts not even taking a second to sit in his head before they were spilling out his mouth.

"Yuuri get a hold of yourself," Minako hissed, grabbing him by the shoulders.

"I didn't mean it, he has to know," Yuuri repeated.

"Who has to know," Minako asked.

"The President. He came to visit me. He told me to settle rebellion in the districts. I didn't mean to-"

"Why didn't you say anything," Minako asked.

"He threatened everyone that I love," Yuuri sobbed. Viktor missed Yuuri's eyes flickering to him. "He threatened my family,"

"You should have told me-"

"He visited me too," Viktor responded. "Threatened me. He said not everyone in the Districts believes our story. I didn't say anything about it either. I didn't want them to take it out on Yuuri."

"Well aren't you too meant to be,” Minako huffed and turned away.

"What do we do," Yuuri sniffled.

"We just have to get through this trip,” Viktor supplied.

"No. There is no getting through this,” Minako hissed, turning to them both. “This is your life now. You're a distraction so that the people forget about the real problems. You're mentors, which means they will drag you back out to coach a new set of doomed children, they will get all the juicy details on your love life, and then repeat it every year. The only way 'out' is death."

Viktor felt Yuuri's gaze fall on him and he swallowed, "So what do you suggest?"

"Read the cards, act like you actually love each other, and live out the rest of your miserable lives as Victors."

They nodded and Minako led them back to the cars. Their drive back was quiet, the streets had been emptied of everyone aside from Peacekeepers. Instead of staying overnight as the platform, the train immediately pulled away and moved slowly through the landscape to District 7.

Viktor and Yuuri retired early that night, but Viktor couldn't sleep. He laid staring at the mirrored ceiling of his room, at the way his eyes seemed to glow in the darkness, his hair blending in with the satin sheets. Sometime after midnight, just as his eyes began to flutter closed, Yuuri's screams echoed through the hall. Viktor was out of his bed in an instant and moved through the low-lit hall to Yuuri's room. As the door slid open, Yuuri's eyes met his.

"Sorry, bad dream."

"It's okay," Viktor responded, "I get them too."

"Viktor?"

"Yeah?"

"Will you stay with me?"

"Of course," Viktor crossed the room as Yuuri made space for him on the bed. Yuuri settled against Viktor's chest. "Always.”

----------------

On the 11 th day of their trip, they arrived in District 1. Viktor woke up early that morning, slipping out of bed, careful not to wake Yuuri.

He sat in the back lounge car staring at the dark sky as they flew through the trees. The door slid open in front of him and he tilted his head down to see Yuuri.

"Sorry, did I wake you?"

Yuuri shook his head and curled up next to Viktor, his calf nearly brushing Viktor's thigh, "What are you thinking about?"

"Nothing in particular," and when Yuuri was silent, Viktor smiled with a sigh, "I never thought I'd be going back there."

"I'm sorry."

Viktor shook his head, "Don't be. I don't want to go back there."

"You never told me what that was about... Your reassignment letter," Yuuri provided.

"And you never told me what you wanted to say in the games."

"You never asked."

"I am now."

Yuuri looked out at the sky again before speaking quietly, "When they announced the rule change, they knew what they were doing. I would have to 'admit' I was a girl to win, as if my identity is something I'm ashamed about," Yuuri laughed but it was empty of humor. "I know who I am, I know how I was born. I'm not ashamed to be who I am. Yeah, I transitioned as soon as I could because I feel my records should accurately reflect who I am, but..."

"I think I understand," Viktor supplied.

"So, yeah it was funny that they thought that was some kind of 'got you,' when to me they might as well let me walk free."

"You're brave. I don't know if I've ever told you that, but it amazes me."

"Thanks, but I'm just existing."

"That itself is pretty brave... The letter," Viktor hesitated. "The part about the transfer is pretty easy to grasp." Yuuri nodded. The Capitol saw forcing Viktor to move to 12 as a punishment, as if to say 'Fine, you love him so bad then prove it by going from the richest district to the poorest.' "But the other part, the stipulation..." Viktor was referring to the portion of his letter which forced his compliance of survival. Viktor was not to put himself purposely in harm's way with the intention of causing injury or death. Failure to comply will result in punishment of equality to the crime, which his death resulting in the death of everyone he loves, in more or less words. It was a survival clause, ensuring Viktor would not again attempt to end his own life. "It feels pathetic, being so miserable. I know One is still District but just barely. Poverty isn't really a thing there, we are well off. The people of Twelve are right to hate me as much as they do. But that doesn't stop the ' illness'. I feel silly having a sickness no one can see, but I know it's real. I feel it everyday, there in the back of my mind even when I feel I'm getting better. I thought the games were my way out, a way to be free that wouldn't shame my family name."

"That's what you meant when you told me you had never intended to make it out."

"And it's why I volunteered. I had the same training as everyone else and when I saw you for the first time I thought at the very least I could protect you until the end."

"Why me?"

"Why anyone? You caught my eye I guess. You're a symbol of resilience, something I didn't have. It felt worth something to keep that in the world."

"Oh," Yuuri turned away again and Viktor watched him swallow. "Thank you."

"Always," Viktor replied, and they fell into a short silence as the sun began to rise.

“Do you still feel that way?”

Viktor turned to Yuuri, unsure if he heard him right. When Yuuri saw his face he scrambled to correct himself, “Sorry, I didn’t mean-“

“No, no it’s okay. Most days yeah, I still feel it there in the back of my mind, but it’s… quieter now. The feeling remains but underneath it there is still hope that someday I’ll be okay, and for now that’s enough to get me through.”

“Well that and it’s now illegal for you to do anything about it,” Yuuri joked cautiously.

Viktor laughed, a real bright laugh from his chest, “I suppose you’re right. Looks like you’re stuck with me Katsuki.”

“Doesn’t sound too bad,” Yuuri smiled.

The train slowed as they entered the final tunnel separating them from Viktor’s home.

“I wish they’d let me give you a tour. You got to show me your home, it feels only fair.”

“Ignorance is bliss, the Capitol was enough for me.” Yuuri stood up and turned to face Viktor. “Are you sure you’ll be okay?”

“Yeah, these people hardly liked me before I left. I doubt they’d care enough to even listen to our speech anyways.” Viktor stood up too. “Let’s go.”

Viktor followed Yuuri off the train and immediately shielded his eyes from the sun. It was much warmer in One than it was in Twelve. They were ushered into another vehicle and driven to the Justice building. It was the nicest hall they had been to so far, the walls adorned with marble and gold.

"Wow," Yuuri whispered as they walked in. "It's hard to believe this is still District."

Viktor nodded and they were ushered into a room to prepare. The outfits Phichit had arranged for them were much nicer than the ones they had worn in the poorer districts but not nearly as nice as the ones they would wear in the Capitol tomorrow.

After Phichit deemed them both elegant enough, he left them to prepare. As Viktor stood across the room running over his lines, one of the back door flung open.

"There you are," A familiar voice shouted.

Viktor turned around to see a small blonde boy standing in the far edge of the room. Yuuri, who was closer to him, took a step back.

"Yura! What are you doing here?"

"I'd say the same to you but you never came home."

"Sorry I-"

"I don't want excuses. I want to know why you're being paraded around with this pig instead of coming back to One where you belong. I had to watch that disgusting interview just to confirm you were alive."

"Well, I'm alive."

"Maybe, but you're as good as not. Why didn't you come back."

"I've been reassigned."

"What? Why," The boy shouted. "Is it because of him," The boy turned his glare on Yuuri, and Yuuri took a step back. 

Viktor stepped between them and said, "No," before saying much quieter, "I didn't have a choice."

"No choice my ass. You probably begged them, knowing your pathetic ass. Did you forget the promise you made to me?"

Viktor visibly winced and shook his head. 

"Yura, you can't be here. We have to go on soon, if they catch you-"

"They'll what?"

"Yuri, just go. I will find a way to explain everything. Just go."

The young boy grumbled before slipping out the door he came in.

"Who was that," Yuuri asked after a moment of silence. Confusion written all over his face. Viktor realized he was positioned closer to the door than before. "I thought you said you didn't have any family?"

Viktor ran a hand down his face with a sigh. "I don't. I didn't think the damn kid was serious."

"Serious about what? What did you promise him?"

There was a knock at the door.

'I'll tell you later, on the train. I promise." Yuuri gave him a look and Viktor couldn't help the way his mouth quirked up. "I always mean it with you."

The door opened and Viktor followed Yuuri back into the hall and through the large doors leading to the stage. Viktor didn't miss Yuuri's gasp when he saw the people of District 1. Viktor gritted his teeth against the disinterest presented by the people. Vera's face was projected over the large screen and her large family stood proudly, but solemnly, in front. Viktor noticed the motion of a scoff from her older brother as he read the eulogy for her. 

By the time they were ushered off the stage and back to the train, Viktor was just glad they hadn't been booed off. 

Somehow, Viktor wasn't surprised to find a fiery teen waiting for him on the platform. 

He learned over and whispered to Yuuri, "Cover for me?"

Yuuri looked past Viktor before looking back and nodding, :Be safe, be quick."

"I will."

Viktor slipped off and into a storage room off the platform.

"What do you think you're doing," he hissed after he near violently tugged the boy in after him.

"You said you would explain."

"Yes, later, when it's safe. If they find you here it would be far worse than any punishment if they had found you in the Justice Building."

The boy rolled his eyes, "As if the tin heads care about us. I haven't seen one of those big guns since I was like 4."

"That doesn't mean you're invincible. Especially if they think you mean anything to me."

"I don't."

Viktor gave him a look but continued on, "You need to be smart. I'm not here to protect you anymore."

"I never needed you to protect me. You're the one that left, remember? What the fuck did you do anyways."

"Something stupid, but I'm dealing with it."

"Sounds like you. You should have just killed that pig and came home-"

"Yura," Viktor interrupted, anger written all over his face. "Leave him out of this. He's the reason I'm even still alive to have this conversation."

"You're disgusting, but whatever, it doesn't matter. You have a promise to keep."

"Yuri-" Viktor started but Yuri ignored him.

"I don't care, save your excuses. You promised to train me to be the youngest to win the games. I turn 15 next year, it will be my last chance. That idiot from 4 was 15."

"Yuri you don't know what it's like in there-"

"Yeah, for you maybe because you didn't even try. What did you kill like two people? Pathetic. I could quadruple that in the bloodbath alone."

"Do not enter the games, Yura. You're not ready."

"Yeah, because you were supposed to train me."

"I didn't mean it," Viktor snapped. "I never meant to survive this long. I never planned to train you for anything, I just said it to get you to leave me alone. Is that what you want to hear? I joined the games because killing myself was dishonorable. I only killed those two kids to save Yuuri and I can't sleep over it. Do not join those fucking games. Stay here, stay safe, take care of your sister, and be glad you have food on the table every night. "

Before Yuri could respond, Viktor opened the door to the closet and snuck aboard the train.

Chapter Text

Yuuri was sitting alone in the dining car and Viktor sunk into the seat next to him.

"How'd it go?"

"Oh you know... teenagers."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

Viktor shook his head, "Not here."

As if on queue, Phichit came into the room followed by Minako.

"Well boys, we did it. Now, onto the Capitol."

"As Phichit's voice so clearly is hiding. That was miserable. If the President wants to be convinced you two are in love then I can assure you, he is farthest from."

"You should try reading those cards."

"You could try reading them with a bit of flare," Phichit grumbled.

"Chulanont," Minako put her hand on Phichit's arm and shook her head. Phichit deflated and sank into the last open seat.

"What do you expect us to do then," Viktor asked, his emotions still raw from his talk with Yuri.

"We could get married," Yuuri shrugged.

"Not helping," Minako waved.

"I mean it." Viktor's head whipped to look at Yuuri. His eyes were downcast as he fidgeted with his hands. Yuuri looked up and caught Viktor's eyes. He quickly turned to Minako. "I mean if we're never getting out of this, they expect it to happen at some point so might as well pacify them now."

"Hm... That might just work," Minako said, leaning back in her chair. "Gives the Capitol all the fanfare they want to advertise to the districts. It's going to be a hell of a publicity stunt, think you can handle it?"

"I handled the games. I can handle a fake marriage."

"Plus, it will protect your family for a while...Viktor?"

Viktor swallowed. Yuuri's words running through his head. "Sure. Why not."

He stood and made his way to his room. This day had exhausted him and he didn't really want to dissect why Yuuri's suggestion made him ache.

The buzzing in his head didn't stop even long after he had laid down. He slept alone that night.

—

Viktor sat by himself in the far corner of the dining car as they pulled into the Capitol early the next morning. Phichit passed him a coffee and filled him in on the itinerary change. After Viktor had gone to bed, Phichit had sent a message to the Capitol announcing their engagement. Instead of heading straight to their quarters where they would spend the next two days, they would promptly meet with Stephane to capture their engagement for broadcast to the Districts. Viktor nodded and took the coffee, avoiding the look of pity in Phichit's eyes. He found it sickening how perceptive the man was. That or the lovesickness he refused to acknowledge wasn't as asymptomatic as he had thought.

Yuuri padded out into the dining car only minutes before they were to disembark, much to Phichit's frantic disapproval. Yuuri waved him off saying it didn't matter, Phichit would fret over his appearance regardless and Phichit just huffed and motioned them off the train. 

The fanfare they received now as Victors was ten times that of their arrival as Tributes. Girls fawned over Viktor and Yuuri both, scrambling to get just one glance. If Viktor didn't feel so sick, he would have grabbed Yuuri's hand to help ground themselves in all the noise, but as it was Viktor couldn't hear a thing. They took a car to the Capitol's studio. This time it was all familiar and Viktor didn't feel the weird sense of peace he had the first time. Now he felt on edge and irritated. The perfect mood for a proposal.

After they were dressed in outfits similar to that of what they wore in Twelve, Stephane met with them to discuss logistics.

"I assume Viktor will be proposing so we will have you stand here," He motioned to a spot on the floor for Viktor to stand but he didn't move.

"Yuuri proposed to me."

"Oh. Lovely. Well, I suppose we can make that work."

"If I may interrupt," a voice said. Viktor turned to see a gruff older man approaching. "This is hardly my area of expertise, but if I may make a suggestion…"

'Go ahead," Stephane nodded.

"Do you remember when we first saw the Katsuki boy?"

"Of course, how could I forget that look?"

"Exactly. His stylist did a wonderful job keeping our eyes on him, I think we should continue his work."

"What are you getting at?"

"Have Nikiforov propose. Of course everyone would expect a boy from 12 to fall at the feet of a beautiful boy from 1, but no one would expect the reverse. After everything they went through in the games, I think it will keep the audience invested."

"Hmmm," Stephane thought for a moment before snapping his fingers, "Yes. That's lovely. Thank you... I will, however, be taking all the credit of course."

"I would expect nothing less," Then the man turned to Viktor and Yuuri saying, "We will be acquainted soon," before bowing slightly and disappearing in the wings.

"Great, well Viktor, you heard my brilliance. This piece of tape is now yours."

Viktor was honestly relieved at the change in plans. This meant he would no longer have to act happy about the entire situation. Only the right side of his face would be visible to the audience, but Yuuri would see it all.

"Alright, do we need to rehearse?" Viktor and Yuuri shook their heads. "Wonderful," Stephane clapped.

Bright lights came up on them as a director motioned behind the camera. Someone shouted for action and Viktor silently dropped to his knee. He reached out for Yuuri's hands and let his mouth silently move over ancient words of his long dead relatives. His mother had taught him ‘Russian’ before she died, and though Viktor was far from fluent, he knew quite a bit of the language. She had used it to tell Viktor of the times before.

Yuuri nodded and Viktor moved to his feet, taking a deep breath before pulling Yuuri in for a passionate kiss. Distantly, he thought how little this kiss felt like the one they shared in the games and he wanted to draw back as if he had been burned. Someone yelled cut and Viktor felt Yuuri pull away. They blinked at one another before Stephane spoke up.

"Wonderful, truly. Thank you again boys. I hope you enjoy your visit in the Capitol.

The rest of the day was spent in preparation for the extravagant party they would attend at the Presidential Palace that evening. Viktor and Yuuri were rejoined at 7 past midday as a car awaited to take them to the Presidential Mansion. Viktor smiled at Yuuri as he stepped out of the car, offering his arm. They hadn't spoken for much of the day, but Viktor knew his unreasonable bitterness would only make Yuuri feel worse. 

All eyes drew to them as they walked through the large crowd to enter the mansion. Vitkor felt careful hands draw across his arms and shoulders. Yuuri must have had similar treatment, as Viktor felt him tense and press against him. Viktor lifted his opposite hand to lay over Yuuri’s hand, soothing him in slow strokes with his fingers over his knuckles. Phichit led them through the extravagant mansion and down the steps to the patio overlooking the garden. At this point Viktor and Yuuri were separated to mingle with different audiences.

Nearly every other person Viktor spoke to, no matter their gender, lamented his death as a bachelor. The sentiment did not boost his ego so much as it made his skin crawl. Living in a career district made Victor's highly sought after, Viktor knew this but experiencing it firsthand was a lot different. 

At some point he found Yuuri again, falling into one another's arms with ease as Viktor pulled Yuuri to the dance floor. They swayed back and forth together, relaxing in the silence after a long hour of forced small talk.

"People are starving in the Districts and here they are forcing themselves to throw up just so they can eat more," Yuuri said, breaking the silence.

"Even in One we weren't that wasteful."

"I never thought I would want to go back to Twelve this bad."

Viktor hummed as he twirled Yuuri in his arms before pulling him to his chest and allowing Yuuri to rest his head against him. There was a question on the tip of his tongue but before he could speak it, the man from the studio approached them.

'Sorry, may I?”

Viktor nodded, passing Yuuri over to the man.

"I'll be standing right over here, okay," He said to reassure Yuuri and he nodded as he took the man's hands.

Viktor took a glass of some intoxicating drink and stood on the sidelines of the dance floor. He turned down multiple requests to dance as he watched Yuuri and the older man move around the dancefloor. 

"I see the Head Gamemaker has made an appearance," A voice said from beside Viktor. He turned to see Minako, drink in hand, standing beside him.

"That's the Head Gamemaker? What happened to-"

Minako shushed him with a finger to his lips, leaning over to speak quietly.

"The same thing that happens to anyone the President deems unfit ," Then returning to her prior stance and voice level, she continues, "That's Yakov Feltsman. He will be in charge of the Third Quarter Quell."

Viktor had totally forgotten there would be another round of games in a few months – The Quarter Quell, special rules for a special game. He nodded in understanding.

The song ended and the dancers slowed to a stop. Everyone clapped and after Yakov leaned in to whisper something to Yuuri, he led him back to Viktor.

"I thank you again, he is a lovely dancer."

"He is, isn't he," Viktor replied.

"I don't believe I introduced myself," the man bowed slightly at the waist, "Yakov Feltsman, Head Gamemaker. Congratulations on your victory, I'm sure we will speak again soon. Excuse me."

The man ducked away, and Viktor turned his attention to Yuuri. 

"I need a drink," Yuuri said.

Just as Viktor turned to follow him, someone caught his arm and pulled him into a dance. He tried to turn them down and follow after but they simply kept on, sweeping Viktor up in the dance. 

By the time he was freed, Yuuri was nowhere to be found. He tried asking Phichit who was chatting with some other stylists, but he shook his head and went on chatting. Viktor sighed just as there was a commotion from the dance floor.

Viktor made his way back up the stairs, finding Yuuri instantly. He was swinging a young lady around as the crowd stood back and clapped. When his eyes caught Viktor pushing to the front, he gently let her off and reached to pull him out of the crowd. Viktor was immediately swept up into an intricate dance as he stumbled to follow along. Yuuri's face was so close and so focused as he moved through the steps. He laughed as the audience cheered, spinning and dipping Viktor in the most extravagant ways.

"I didn't know you could dance like this," Viktor whispered to him as Yuuri pulled him to his chest. Viktor was spun back out and as Yuuri twirled him back in, he responded, "You never asked," before dipping Viktor deep, Yuuri's hand gripping his thigh to keep his leg extended. The dance ended as Yuuri pulled Viktor back to his feet and against his chest. The audience cheered and Viktor smelled the culprit on Yuuri's breath.

"How much did you drink?"

"Enough," he slurred with a smile, reaching for another glass from a passing tray.

Viktor immediately took it out of his hands and put it back. Yuuri pouted but before he could say anything the Presidential anthem played over the speakers and the audience turned towards the balcony overlooking the gardens.

"Welcome," The president spoke, "Welcome." The audience quieted down as he cleared his throat. "I would like to thank you all for coming to honor our two Victors. A boy from District One, and another from District 12. A story of true love and sacrifice. Not only are we celebrating their glorious win, but I would like to be the first to congratulate them on their engagement. May their love only grow and thrive."

"Cheers to that," Yuuri giggled and leaned into Viktor.

"Alright, let's find a seat."

Viktor steered Yuuri towards the tables lining the dance floor, but they didn't make it before Yuuri threw up into a bush and down his expensive suit. Yuuri looked up to Viktor in fear at what had just happened, but Viktor reassured him.

"It's okay. It's okay. Here," Viktor removed Yuuri's coat, replacing it with his own before steering Yuuri to the palace to find a bathroom. People cheered and clapped their backs as they walked through, before adding occasional wolf whistles as they turned towards the bathrooms. 

Viktor opened one of the doors and ushered Yuuri into the comically large bathroom.

When he had locked the door, he found Yuuri collapsed onto the closed toilet lid, tears stinging his eyes.

"Yuuri?"

Yuuri quickly wiped his eyes, "Sorry, sorry."

"No, it's okay. Is everything okay?"

Yuuri tried to speak but a sob came out instead and he just repeated, "Sorry."

"Come here," Viktor ushered him to his feet and to the sink. "Let's clean up and then get out of here."

"But this party is for us."

"It's not. None of these people really care about us, unless we are going to get on our knees for them, and I don't like the idea of you being this drunk around them if I'm being honest." Viktor didn't look up at Yuuri as he used a wet rag to wipe down his shirt.

"No one wants me," Yuuri laughed wetly.

"That's not true."

"Yeah? Name one person."

'Me," Viktor said seriously, keeping his eyes focused on the shirt in his hands..

"Yeah, ‘cause you have to."

"If that's what you want to believe," Viktor tilted Yuuri's chin up to wipe it down. "There."

"Thanks," Yuuri mumbled.

"Ready to get out of here?"

Yuuri nodded. Viktor took his hand and led them back out into the party and through the crowds to the front steps. Viktor placed Yuuri on the top step to hail their car and they rode back to the Quarters in silence. Viktor again helped Yuuri up to the room. After Viktor had changed him into sleep wear and laid him into the bed, Yuuri wrapped his hands around Viktor's neck and pulled him down.

Viktor immediately pulled back and shook his head.

"I thought you wanted me," Yuuri frowned.

"I do," Viktor sighed. "Just not like this, and not when you're drunk. Get some sleep, okay?"

Viktor kissed Yuuri's head lightly and leaned back to turn away. The Capitol had given them just one room with a large bed, most nights they shared it with more than enough space for the two of them, but tonight Viktor made to sleep on the couch.

"Wait."

Viktor stopped and turned around.

"Stay. Please?"

"Okay."

Viktor didn't bother changing, climbing into the bed in his stiff pants and undershirt. Yuuri turned over and lair against Viktor's side, his hand tangling in the loose fabric of Viktor's shirt.

"I'm sorry," Yuuri spoke into Viktor's shirt.

"Hm?"

"I'm sorry you are stuck with me."

"I'm not stuck with you."

"You are. You can't even go home."

Home . Viktor hadn't had one of those since his mother passed away. He remembered the feeling of comfort her presence had brought him, how everything outside the walls of their house seemed to disappear as they stood side by side in the kitchen making dinner, or when she hummed as she braided his long silver hair. He realized then that it had felt a lot like how being with Yuuri felt. 

"I'm already home," he said, but Yuuri had already fallen asleep.

Chapter Text

The return to 12 was calm and uneventful. Viktor and Yuuri fell into a routine, spending mornings out in the forest beyond the village sitting in comfortable silence. It had started when Yuuri found Viktor out along the edge of an open field, twisting dead stems into a mockery of a flower crown like his mother had taught him.

Viktor hadn’t realized how long they were in the Capitol until summer started to fade into fall. He realized it must have been over a month.

Now winter was gone and spring has faded back into summer. It was the start of the 75th year which also meant another Quarter Quell. It was the first one Viktor was alive for, but etiquette was well known in District 1. There would be a ceremony at the end of spring, 2 months before the reaping.

That day had come and Viktor couldn’t sleep. Instead he made his way out to the familiar meadow, twisting long lengths of green grass and summer flowers into 

A branch had snapped behind Viktor, making him startle and nearly panic before he turned to see an apologetic Yuuri.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to scare you, I was going to say something but I thought that would scare you more and then at that point it was too late anyways..." He trailed off, realizing he was rambling, "I'm sorry."

"It's okay."

Yuuri quietly sat down next to him, "What are you doing out here?"

"Thinking. You?"

"Same."

They sat in silence for another beat.

"Sometimes when I'm out here, it feels like I'm still in there," Yuuri said quietly.

"Me too, it's like I never got out."

Another beat of silence.

"Sometimes, I want to just run away."

"Why don't you?"

"My family," Yuuri shrugs. I could have run before the games but now anything I do comes back on them. I know it's unfair of me to be, but sometimes I'm jealous of you," Yuuri kicked at the grass under his feet before reluctantly continuing. "You have no one. You can do whatever you want because no one will get hurt. It sounds so lonely but at least I wouldn't have this fear and guilt."

Viktor stared out at the field in front of them, unsure how to respond. Part of him was angry at how Yuuri could wish for the very life that had pushed Viktor to the brink, but another part of him understood that there was a freedom in how lonely Viktor had been. He realizes that now that it's gone."

"You could just run away, and no one would bat an eye."

"That's not true," Viktor spoke up, his voice wavering slightly. "I'm a Victor now, everyone would notice, plus I'm not alone anymore. Anything I do reflects on you, on your family."

"And why would you care about us?"

Viktor looked over at Yuuri, the buzzing anger in his ears making it hard to tell if he was hearing things correctly.

He couldn't choke back his frustration, "Because despite what you're so desperate to believe, I do care about you. I know us ‘Careers’ are known for our allegiance to the Capitol and hate for the Districts, but not all of us are what the Capitol wants everyone to think they are. You of all people should understand that."

Yuuri blinked in disbelief at Vitkor's words before they processed and his brow furrowed, "I do understand."

"Well you don't act like it," Viktor huffed, calming down slightly.

"I don't know what you want from me, Viktor."

"I don't either," Viktor replied and stood up.

"Where are you going," Yuuri asked, standing too. 

"Back. They're announcing the Quell tonight and you know I can't wait to see who gets to die next," He sneered and walked away. He knew he was being irrational but getting angry was the only thing stopping him from crying. He forgot what it had felt like to care so deeply for someone, he had forgotten how it felt for them to not care in return. He hadn't felt this way since his father was alive.

Viktor sat alone in his living room, the television just a low interruption to the silence of his near constant solitude. On the screen, Stephane and his co-host Nobunari Oda. A man Viktor had only ever seen on the screen despite being paraded around the Capitol twice. The Presidential anthem played, and the screen transitioned to the President to give a speech.

Viktor let most of it fade into the background until the envelope appeared in the President's hands.

And now, on the 75th anniversary of the rebellion, we will host our 3rd Quarter Quell. In honor of those who fought to protect our great nation form rebel, the theme of this year's Quell was decided by their hand when the games were created." The president carefully pulled a thick placard out of the envelope and a disgusting sneer flashed across his face. "This year the twelve tributes will be reaped from the existing pool of Victors.

Anything said after that point was lost to Viktor as his entire body went numb. He was on his feet in seconds, making his way across the way to Minako's house before he even knew why, but when he swung open her door, only one word fell out of his mouth...

"Yuuri."

_____________________________________________________________

They had a plan.

Viktor reminded himself of this as Yuuri clung to him on the train platform. He had promised Yuuri last night that he wouldn't enter the games again. He had told him he would use their relationship and his charm to get Yuuri as much help as possible from the outside. 

When Minako hugged Viktor, she reminded him of the real plan. Viktor apologized to her, and she shrugged her shoulders. 

Viktor shared one last glance with Yuuri before he was ushered onto the train and shuttled back to District 1 for the reaping. They would see each other again soon.

Viktor had the benefit of being the last district to be reaped. They rotated the order every year and District 1 had been the opener last year. Now he sat in a wooden chair in the District 1 Justice Building, unable to leave to wander his old District or visit his home. He watched the televised reaping on the large screen above the receptionist desk. Some of the other Victors from One were in the waiting room with him, though no one bothered speaking to him. His clothes that stuck out for being luxurious in 12 were far too dull for 1 and he felt their glares burrowing into him when he wasn't looking. He had never felt like her fit in here, but he never felt so out of place either. He no longer had a place to belong.

Viktor's heart skipped as Yuuri stepped onto the stage, Phichit's somber smile attempted to offer some semblance of support, but Yuuri showed no sign of processing it. Phichit drew the female tribute first. Beside Minako sat District 12's only other Victor. A woman who Viktor would have guessed one the very first Hunger Games, though he knew she wasn't that old. She had won the year after they began the Victory Tours began. IT was no surprise to anyone when Minako's name was drawn and the older woman volunteered for her. Minako simply bowed her head and stepped back, offering the woman her gratitude and respect. Viktor had forgotten there was a third Victor and sighed a breath knowing they would have Minako's support outside the arena.

Next was the Male Tribute.

A single slip of paper sat in the bowl, The Capitol was making a mockery of Yuuri's hard fought journey on national television, and it made Viktor sick with rage. He watched as Phichit went through the motions of reading the name, but they all knew what it said.

"And the Male Tribute for District 12...Yuuri Katsuki."

Yuuri didn't look up or even acknowledge his name had been said, he didn't move at all until it was time for him to shake the older woman's hand and return to the Justice Building to say his goodbyes.

"You will see them again, Yuuri. I promise," Viktor thought to himself as the stream cut out and the emblem for District 2 displayed on the screen. 

Viktor felt sick and excused himself to the restroom attached to the hall. He splashed water on his face and caught light of the ring adorning his right hand. He slowly spun it around and met his own eyes in the mirror. He looked 10 years older than he had a year ago. He stood tall and flashed the bright smile his mom had taught him. He saw no cracks, as long as no one noticed how it didn't meet his eyes.

There was a pounding on the door and someone shouted, "Halfway!"

Viktor allowed himself one last sigh before he stepped back out into the waiting room. 

Not even an hour later, the District 1 Victors were lined up and paraded out of the Justice Building and down the steps of the stage to line up in rows in front of the audience. He looked out into the crowd of familiar faces. He saw well-dressed people his mother and father had known well, who barely spared him the thought of a glance now that they didn't have to play for wealth with his parents. He saw children who had spent childhoods free of fear that it would be their face projected into the sky. He saw a District nothing like that of 12, and he suddenly understood why they had all hated him so much when he had arrived.

Far in the back of the ground, perched on something to push himself above the crowd, Viktor met a familiar pair of green eyes. Yuri looked away as soon as he had been caught but staid perched, turning his attention to the stage where the Capitol anthem began to play.

Viktor turned his gaze to the ground and stood straight as his District's escort went through the required speech.

"First, the female tribute..."

District 1 was not short of a drawing. They had won the most games out of all the Districts. Viktor stood amongst 15 of the remaining 18 Victors his District had, 6 of which were men, directly in line beside and behind him. They had lined them up in order of their games, with Viktor on the end having been the most recent winner. Next to him was Leon who had won 2 years ago. He had been adored and respected by the District since he returned. The same had not been offered to Viktor.

"Gonna volunteer again to kill more of us, traitor," One of the men behind him sneered. Viktor knew without looking it was likely Rion who had won the games in Year 30 with nothing short of disgusting brutality. "Saw your runt from 12 got reaped... maybe I'll volunteer and make you watch me tear him apart."

"Don't-," Viktor hissed involuntarily before he could cut himself off. 

Rion laughed at this reaction and fell back into line.

"Ophelia Luxe," their escort called, and Viktor watched as the young woman passed in front of them and up onto the stage. A few moments passed before the male tribute was reaped. Before the escort could finish reading off the man's name, Viktor heard the intake of breath from behind him. In a moment of hot rage, his arm swung back making a satisfying crunch as it met Rion's face, "I volunteer as tribute."

He stepped out of line immediately and didn't miss the agonizing relief on the tribute whose name had been reaped. Jules clasped Viktor’s hand in silent support as he walked past, but Viktor didn't, couldn't , acknowledge it – for the other man's sake.

Viktor was relished by the escort as the first District 1 tribute to volunteer twice, though there were no cheers or adoration from the crowd. Before he was ushered off the stage, he caught a flash of blond as Yuri jumped down from his perch and disappeared into the crowd.

Viktor was ushered onto the train alongside Ophelia. She didn't speak to him while their mentor updated them on the tributes from the other Districts, but he felt her gaze fall on him as the recap from Yuuri's reaping played. As soon as Viktor was able, he was out of his seat and in the back of the train car. 

The door slid open behind him and the cushion shifted as someone sat down a ways away from him.

"I understand why you did it, this time anyways...but if you never intended to win, why did you volunteer the first time?"

Viktor looked up to see Ophelia sitting down on the couch from him. She wasn't looking at him. Viktor thought for a moment how she could have known his intentions when he left One the first time. 

"You won't understand."

"Try me," She replied, but when Viktor said nothing, she continued, "They say it was grief. That you never recovered from your mother's death."

"Maybe they're right."

"There was some character for what you did for that boy in 12. Until they broadcast you across the nation from 12, we all figured they had killed you anyways," she paused again, "They're making you pay for it."

She didn't say it as a question so Viktor didn't answer.

"Kind of sick, that they're sending us back. I mean these people are all winners."

"No one wins the game," Viktor replied with no hesitation.

"Maybe not, but only one survives..."

Again, Viktor didn't reply.

"I won't be your ally, I can't... but we are still representing the same District. Might as well be civil until that first cannon sounds."

"Sounds fair enough," Viktor replied, and he meant it. Ophelia was only 4 years older than him and had won her games by outliving half the tributes with her strength and survival skills. The arena had helped her out. Her kill count was hardly higher than Viktor's. 

Viktor saw her nod her head once at his response before she stood and made her way out of the car.  

"Oh, and congratulations." Viktor met her eyes, unsure what she was getting at. She smiled as she finished with, "Your engagement," before letting the automatic door slide closed behind her.

Chapter Text

Viktor's return to the Capitol was met with the same amount of fanfare as before, Capitol citizens reached out on both sides to run fingers through Ophelia's hair and across Victor's shoulders. He knew behind him more tributes were unloading the train, which meant somewhere behind him was Yuuri.

He hadn’t allowed himself a lot of time to consider what Yuuri would say about Viktor volunteering, or what the Capitol would think. He wondered if volunteering for the Hunger Games broke his contract, or if as long as Viktor’s death could be televised as entertainment, they didn’t care. He was more concerned with the latter. He could die alright even if Yuuri hated him for rest of his long life as long as Yuuri had a ‘long life.’

The Capitol didn't hold back for the Quarter Quell. Viktor and Ophelia were loaded into a sleek black vehicle and driven to the new tribute center. With the training center taking up the first floor, they were guided into an elevator to the second floor. Each tribute had their own wing complete with a large bedroom and a full bathroom complete with marble countertops and a jacuzzi tub. 

Viktor didn't bother changing before collapsing into bed. He stared at the ceiling with its intricate designs until he faded into a restless sleep. HE dreamt of Yuuri in the meadows outside 12, a cool breeze blowing through his head and tousling it. Of him adjusting the wire frames he'd gotten from The Hob after the first Victor's bounty arrived, and he awoke the next morning with an ache in his heart, reminding him he would never see those rolling fields he'd been forced, but welcome, to call home again. 

He and Ophelia sat in silence as their escort discussed the day's itinerary with them. There would be another parade of tributes in the late afternoon followed by a banquet of Victor's afterwards. Soon after their stylist arrived with their outfits for the evening and hurried them to their rooms to put them on so she could make alterations. After an hour of being stabbed with pins, Viktor and Ophelia were free to rest until they could be called to dress for the parade and Victor used the time to sit on the balcony and enjoy what he could of the dry July air. 

When he rejoined his team in the main living space, Ophelia was already dressed and one of her stylists was fashioning her long blond curls into a braid that framed her face and left the rest of her long curls to fall around her shoulders. Her outfit was white with an iridescent gold train down her back and fell to her feet where she wore heels designed to imitate ancient gladiator sandals. Her exposed shoulders and arms were covered with gold specs of body glitter being applied by another member of her stylist's team.

Viktor returned to his bedroom with his own garment bag and put on his now-altered outfit. His attire mocked that of a Roman from ancient times, like Ophelia's, but the material was fine silk that framed Viktor's muscular frame and reached up to wrap around one shoulder. His own flat shoes wrapped up his calves and tied off behind his knees. It would be uncomfortable if he was sitting for a while, but his stylist had a cocktail dress and pants for them to change into after the parade ended. 

His stylist's team styled his hair so that it was pinned behind his ears. They had tried that morning to convince him to cut it, but Viktor shook his head and refused. Before he realized the time had passed, his escorts were leading them out the door and to the elevators. Another black car took them from the Tribute Center to the warehouse that stored their chariots.

When Viktor caught sight of Yuuri, his breath caught. He was once again dressed in all black, his costume designed to hug his hard-earned, masculine, yet still wiry figure. Like Viktor's costume, it caught in the lights of the warehouse, shining like a mid-summer's day. Viktor was caught staring by Ophelia and she nudged him.

"Are you going to introduce me to your fiancé?"

"I don't think he's quite happy with me."

"I can't imagine why not. Long shot the Capitol let's you both win again."

Viktor knew this but he still felt the ache settle into his gut that the chances of him dying with Yuuri unable to even look him in the eyes became realer and realer with every passing festivity. He had no idea when they would be able to talk, if they would be able to talk, before the games.

Viktor looked away and climbed up into the chariot, stretching out his hand to help pull Ophelia up.

The cheers of the crowd drowned out any thoughts Viktor had as he plastered on a fake smile and waved to them.

++++++++++

The second they were free to break off to individual training, Viktor looked for Yuuri. HE wandered around, drawing the eyes of the other tributes as he made his way to the section designated to learning how to start fires. Yuuri was speaking quietly to a tribute from 5, but when she saw Viktor approached, she just lightly tapped his shoulder and stood up. Yuuri said goodbye before turning back to his pile of sticks.

"Hard at work on allies already," Viktor said as he sat down. Yuuri didn't look up, just kept messing with his pile. Viktor joined in, picking leaves from the ground to put onto the pile. 

"You'd be dead by morning," Yuuri replied quietly.

Viktor looked up at him but Yuuri was still focused on creating a snare. There was no indication he had even spoke.

"Smoke," he added, and this time Viktor saw his lips move.

"What do I use instead," Viktor asked. He did it just to hear Yuuri speak, savoring every piece of him he could get, but he also needed to survive as long as possible to protect Yuuri.

"Hardwoods like oak. Nothing wet, nothing too dry, No grass."

"Got it."

Viktor was unable to get Yuuri to say much else the rest of the training session and as they filed out and back into the elevators, Viktor pulled Yuuri off on the second floor .

Yuuri cried out and Viktor immediately shushed him, pulling him into an alcove.

"What are you doing," Yuuri hissed. "They'll-"

"What? Kill us?" Yuuri fell silent. "I'm already dead anyways, we both know it."

"If they let you," Yuuri shrugged. "You have conditions, remember. I wouldn't put it above them to force you to abide by them."

Viktor hadn't thought of that. He had assumed the Capitol likely wanted them both gone in some disgustingly tragic way to immortalize their love in a way that supports the Capitol while exterminating the rebellious spark they ignited with those berries in the arena. 

"Why are you here," Yuuri asked. His voice was quiet, his eyes searching Viktor's face for something he couldn't find. "I don't understand you. You could have moved back to 1, taken care of that boy. You could have gotten away from me and the target on my back, so why did you volunteer? Do you still want to-"

"No," Viktor replied instantly. He couldn't imagine ever wanting to rid himself of what he had now, unless of course, it was taken from him. "No, of course no, I-"

"Then why? I don't understand?" Yuuri's voice wavered but he stood tall.

There was no sense in lying, there was no sense in hiding this. Not when they were in the Capitol, headed back to the Arena, the eyes of the entire nation, skeptical or supportive, trained on them.

"To protect you."

"But why?"

"Yuuri. You cannot still be this oblivious."

"Phichit says the same thing," Yuuri shrugged.

"He's right. If it's not obvious to you by now, I want to protect your because I care about you."

"But why?"

"Because I'm in love with you!"

It wasn't how Viktor wanted to admit it. He'd always imagined it would be said softer, from a place of compassion. Instead, it came out rushed and harsh. Exasperated.

"There. Now you know, so you can stop wondering."

Viktor stepped back and moved down the hall to enter his suite. He lay against the door as soon as it was closed and closed his eyes. He hadn't meant for that interaction to go that way. He only had so much time with Yuuri but the other man's inability to see himself as someone worth protecting hurt Viktor in ways he couldn't really describe. He knew it made him a hypocrite, as he had been the first of them to deem himself unworthy of saving, but none of that really mattered. It wouldn't be the first time he was a hypocrite, and he assumed it wouldn't be the last... Though his opportunities were dwindling. 

Viktor pushed off the door, skipping dinner completely to lay in his room. He thought more on what Yuuri had said, regarding the Capitol's stipulations they had given Viktor almost a year ago. Surely, they wouldn't go out of their way to keep Viktor alive in the arena... That defeated the purpose. It was possible however that they would use means to kill Yuuri at every possibility.

Deciding he needed some air, Viktor slipped out of the apartment . He knew there was a rooftop garden and decided to make his way up, needing the fresh air.

"And where do you think you're going," A voice called behind him. Viktor tuned to see a Peacekeeper stepping toward him, his hand pressed to a weapon on his waist. He was the least armored guard Viktor had seen, likely to make him behind in with the Avoxes kept around the complex.

"The gardens," Viktor answered simply.

"See that," The Peacekeeper pointed to the wall of windows along the farthest end of the atrium. Outside the light of the Capitol illuminated the night sky. "There's a curfew for tributes. Victors or not."

Before Viktor could come up with an excuse, a voice spoke over them, "He's with me."

"Didn't you hear me. I said 'Victors or not.'"

"Oh, trust me, all of Panem heard you," She said. "I'm his mentor."

Viktor turned to see Minako standing beside him. The Peacekeeper sized her up before responding, "You're not District 1."

"You must be new here."

The man looked offended, but Viktor saw the unease in his face. A mistake like this could mean awful things for someone from the districts no matter their station. The man stepped back and spoke into his ear. When he returned he simply shooed the two of them away with the wave of his uninterested hand.

Viktor followed Minako to the glass elevators and up to the top floor garden. She led him out into the foliage to the far corner were the corners of the building met. She stared down to the street below with a curious look on her face.

"Forcefield technology has come a long way," She dropped a small pebble off the ledge, and it buzzed and crackled as it hit an invisible barrier an inch from the ledge. 

Viktor didn't know what to say but he nodded.

"Are you still wanting to-" Minako started but Viktor didn't let her finish. 

"Yes, of course I want to save him." Viktor tried not to be hurt by the hidden accusation that for some reason he may have changed his mind. "There is nothing here for me if he dies. My mind will not change."

Minako nodded once before leaning in too close to Viktor's ear, "Then you must know, this is far bigger than just the two of you now. You're not the only one finding a sudden spark of hope in our Yuuri. We want to use that to end this."

"What do you mean?"

"You aren't the only one who will stop at nothing to get Yuuri out of that arena. You need to play allies and play them well. Yuuri isn't going to trust anyone but you in there, but you will not be enough to free him, not when the Capitol is your opponent. Do you understand."

Viktor swallowed hard and nodded.

Minako quietly provided Viktor a list of the names of tributes in on this rebel plot and how they were going to do it. Viktor listened closely, nodding along and asking for clarification when needed.

"The most important thing," Minako said as the elevator opened on his floor. "Yuuri cannot know about this."

Viktor nodded and stepped out onto his floor.

The apartment was dark as he slipped inside, but as he crossed the living room he noticed a figure perched on the far end of the elegant sofa.

“Training starts early tomorrow,” She said.

“I was just getting some air.”

“With a mentor from 12?” Viktor sighed as Ophelia shifted, “It’s real isn’t it?”

“Is what real,” Viktor asked. He heard the defensiveness in his voice and blamed it on exhaustion.

“You’re feelings for him You really love that boy don’t you.”

“Of course I do. Does everyone really think I’m faking it?”

She shrugged, “Kept you alive.”

The opposite of what I wanted at the time, Viktor thought to himself.

Ophelia was standing now, walking past Viktor to the hall, “I truly cannot promise to be allies. If it comes down to it, I won’t spare him, but until then… I won’t seek him out.”

Viktor felt air rush into his lungs, “Why?”

“I have a soft spot for a good story. Goodnight Viktor,” And Viktor watched as she disappeared down the hall into her room. 

Chapter Text

The days before interviews passed without much fanfare. There was less vengeance in this crowd of Victor’s. Everyone here was promised a life of peace and yet they were back in the training arena, only one of them would ever see their families again. 

Minako met with Viktor daily to discuss strategy and details. Viktor filled her in on Ophelia’s status, feeling it only fair his allies do not seek her out in return.

During the evaluation, both Viktor and Yuuri scored the same as the year before, despite their acts of defiance to perform. It seems Yakov had taken a liking to this year’s lot.

Viktor held the train of Ophelia’s dress as they made their way through the studio for the Interviews. The same studio he had proposed to Yuuri just months before. 

As Viktor and Ophelia made their way to the side of the stage, their stylists made last minute adjustments to their attire.

One was adjusting the mesh material that fell down his back, ending just above his knees and another was adding another pin to the gold adornment wrapped around the back half of his head, holding his hair back out of his face, all except for a few strands strategically left to graze his forehead. The rest of his ensemble was all one shade of off-white eggshell, complemented with specks of gold and a large golden belt that hugged his waist, accentuating his lithe figure. The flowing material was light and airy and Viktor found it was one of the most comfortable things he’d ever worn. They had also given him a simple silver band to wear alongside the gold one gifted to him when Yuuri had ‘proposed.’

Viktor didn’t get a chance to see Yuuri before he was ushered onto the stage, the lights blinding him as he shot a winning smile at Stephane and took a seat.

“Viktor, welcome back!”

“I wish I could say it was good to be back.”

“Nothing like the last time we spoke.”

“No, no. Definitely not.”

“Truly a devastating turn of events for you, but you.. You volunteered?”

“Yes, I did.”

“Why?”

“What choice did I have? I knew Yuuri was the only male tribute in 12, so I had to protect him.”

“You are aware there will be only one winner this time.”

“Yes, of course. The Capitol was beyond generous to give us a few more months together. I promised Yuuri a long life of peace, and I intend to keep that promise.”

“You don’t plan to make it out of this?”

“No. I can’t-” Viktor hesitated for a moment as tears stung his eyes. He looked out to the front of the stage and saw a few members of the audience dabbing their eyes. They were eating this up. “I can’t live without him,” Viktor finished, wiping his dry eye for effect.

Pity erupted through the crowd as people swooned. 

“Truly touching, our Star-Crossed lovers. We will wish the best for you both.”

“Thank you, Stephane.”

Their conversation switched to strategy for a minute before Stephane stood to give Viktor a bow and he made his way to the rafters. 

A lot of tributes also played on the Capitol’s emotions, a fiery red-head from 7 going as far as cussing the crowd out.

Finally, it was time for District 12 and Viktor held his breath as Yuuri stepped out onto stage in a nearly all black outfit. He wore an all black shawl, falling over his shoulders and descending all the way to the floor. Underneath, he wore another black robe layered over more black fabric and held together at the wait with a black sash and knotted ball. The pants were hidden by the layers of fabric but as he walked, Viktor caught sight of their grey striped material and black boots. It was unlike anything Viktor had ever seen before both in the districts and Capitol fashion. The audience felt, murmuring as Yuuri walked onto stage.

As he reached out to shake Stephane’s hand, the light caught on a simple gold and silver band adorning Yuuri’s hand, perfectly matching the one on Viktor’s and his chest ached.

He carefully sat in his seat, tucking the elegant robe under him to not wrinkle it. 

“Wow, this is a spectacular outfit. Your stylist outdid himself.”

“Thank you,” Yuuri nodded.

“It looks very foreign, like something we haven’t really seen here in Panem, can you tell me about that?”

“Yes. Celestino pulled elements from traditional Japanese wedding attire for this, from long before the dark days.”

“What a lovely tribute to the wedding that never got to be.”

“Well,” Yuuri's eyes shifted toward Viktor and then to the crowd. “We did. In secret.” The crowd gasped and murmured. “We wanted our love to be eternal.”

“Wow this is exciting news, everyone. Okay, okay,” He calmed the crowd. “I do suppose Viktor looked reminiscent of a bride today, did he not?”

Members of the audience laughed and Viktor felt his face blush. He hadn't put much thought into how his outfit was much lighter shade than Ophelia’s, assuming it to be a stylistic choice.

“As Viktor said, if we cannot have our peaceful life as we were promised, we will take every bit of it we can get.”

Stephane nodded, “And what do you think about his notion of making you this year’s winner?”

It was a sickening question to ask a man who just announced he had a secret wedding, but Viktor stared at Yuuri, desperate to see the truth or lie in whatever was going to come out of his mouth next.

“I think it's foolish, and he knows this, but only the games will tell.”

“Thank you, Yuuri.”

Yuuri nodded and climbed the stairs to stand next to other districts, but instead of taking his spot next to the girl from District 12, he crossed the floor to Viktor, wrapping his arms around him immediately and tucking his head into Viktor’s neck.

“Sorry, I didn’t get a chance to tell you before. It was Celestino and Minako’s idea.”

Viktor tucked his head into Yuuri’s hair to hide his response, “It’s okay.” He squeezed Yuuri a little tighter before a peacekeeper on the edge of the stage motioned for them to break up, Yuuri pulled back and let his hand trail down Viktor’s arm to his hand. He gave it one squeeze, their rings pressing together before he pulled away to take his spot. When the interviews concluded, Viktor, mind spinning, took Ophelia’s hand and motioned for her to take the man next to hers. She did and slowly every tribute was holding hands. They lifted them up into the air and the crowd went wild. Before they knew it the lights on the stage were shut off and they were all being pulled off stage. In the chaos, Viktor searched for Yuuri, finding him at the last second and grabbing his hand to follow him to his apartment. 

Viktor felt at home again as he sat on the soft couch, thigh mere inches from Yuuri’s as Minako came bursting into the room. 

“You two are all the talk, great work.”

Yuuri looked at Viktor, his cheeks a dusty pink.

“And you look magnificent,” Celestino said following her in.

“Your wedding would have been the talk of the year,” Phichit added. He grabbed Yuuri’s hand and squeezed.

“Thanks, Peach,” Yuuri replied and he smiled at Viktor. “You look very pretty.”

“You should see yourself. Celestino, this outfit is amazing.”

“It was Yuuri’s idea really. The President said he needed to talk about the wedding, to continue selling your love story, and Yuuri suggested going one step further, so we spoke to your stylist.”

“Oh. I had no idea.”

Yuuri laughed beside him and it was the best thing Viktor had heard in weeks, “Viktor, you’re wearing a veil.”

“I thought it was a stylistic choice…”

“Yeah, to make you look like a bride,” Phechit giggled too. Viktor felt his face heat up and he scowled.

“Oh, don’t make that face,” Yuuri teased.

“Yeah, tonight is your honeymoon, you’re supposed to be happy,” Phichit added for good measure and now it was Yuuri’s turn to flush in embarrassment.

“Are you staying here tonight, Viktor,” Maniko asked.

“I hadn’t thought about it, will they let me?”

“Who cares. You did just announce your marriage and the games are tomorrow. It might be suspicious if you didn’t stay.”

“Yeah, I can take the couch.”

“Or you can share with me…wouldn’t be the first time,” He shrugged.

“As long as I’m not imposing…”

“I don’t really want to be alone tonight,” He said quietly, and it broke Viktor’s heart.

“Okay. I’ll stay.”

–

Neither of them could sleep that night.

Viktor laid silently as he felt Yuuri toss and turn before giving up and leaving the bed entirely. Viktor gave him a few minutes before following him. He found Yuuri perched on a windowsill overlooking the city. Yuuri turned to him as Viktor approached.

“Can’t sleep either,” Yuuri asked and Viktor silently shook his head and sat opposite him. “How are we supposed to kill these people.”

Viktor follows Yuuri’s gaze out to the city, “We can’t.”

“Yeah, that’s a sure fire way to die,” Yuuri laughed, but there was no humor.

Vitkor didn’t respond and they sat in a tense silence.

“I might be pissed at you, but part of me is glad you’re here.”

Viktor looked up at him, but Yuuri wasn’t looking back. 

“I feel… I don’t know… calmer, braver, when you’re around. If I don’t think too much about how both of us are not going to survive this, I feel comfort knowing there is at least one person in that arena I know I can trust with my life.”

“Me too.I couldn’t just watch you die. You’re-”

“-All you have, yeah, I know,” Yuuri turned and smiled at him. “You’ve told me a few times.”

“And I meant it.”

“I know you do.”

They fell into silence again, this time much longer. Yuuri stared at the window and Viktor watched him. The moonlight cast pale white light over his features, and Viktor studied each of them until they were further ingrained in his memory. He memorized the way Yuuri’s eyebrows furrowed, revealing thoughts that troubled him, the way his body’s initial instinct was to show his emotion before he had the chance to catch it. Completely opposite to Viktor’s practiced expressions. He watched the way Yuuri’s dark eyelashes fluttered everytime he blinked, and the way when the light hit his eyes just right it showed flecks of gold in his eyes. He studied his soft nose and his sharpened cheeks and jawline from the hormones he had been taking for years in trade for who knows how many tesserae. It was a risk that may have been the very reason he was in the games, but one Yuuri said over and over he would never regret. Viktor's eyes lingered on Yuuri's lips. He’d dreamt about them an embarrassing amount of times, imagining what they might feel like pressed against his own.

He was going to miss Yuuri like a lung, but if an afterlife awaited him, he would gladly wait to find Yuuri all over again, if he would have him.

“Yes,” Yuuri asked, and Viktor realized he’d been caught staring. He felt his face heat up and turned away.

“Sorry,”

“We should probably get to bed,” Yuuri responded and Viktor turned back to him to nod. He followed Yuuri back into their room and they laid on their separate sides. After they settled in and quiet fell over them again, Yuuri whispered his name into the dark.

“Yes?”

“Can we…” He hesitated and started again. “Can you hold me?”

Viktor didn’t miss the way Yuuri voice shook though he knew he was trying hard not to kame it known.

“Always,” Viktor replied as they both shifted to the center of the bed. Yuuri laid his head on Viktor’s chest and his fist bunched up in his shirt. Yuuri didn’t move, he didn’t shake or sniffle, but Viktor could feel his tears soaking through his shirt. Without saying a word, he buried his fingers in Yuuri’s hair until his breath finally evened out, before following after.

Chapter Text

The following morning was a flurry of commotion. Viktor was whisked out of bed without so much as a goodbye to his ‘husband.’ Yuuri, as good as dead to the world, didn't even realize what was happening. Viktor was out the door and on the elevator down to his suite before he could even rub the sleep out of his eyes. Ophelia and the rest of his prep team were waiting in the living space as Viktor changed and then followed them to the truck that would take them to the Tribute’s Hangar.

Viktor was quiet as they boarded the aircraft, starting with his District and working their way up. Yuuri was the last Tribute to board and he didn’t look up as he took his seat. Viktor didn’t react as they put his tracker in, but he watched as Yuuri flinched at the pain. Then the door closed and they took off. Viktor pressed his head against the back of his seat and shut his eyes. Memories of last time flooded behind them. The feeling of his impending doom had been laced with relief back then, but now it ached in his chest like fear and dread and not enough time.

Yuuri wouldn’t look at him, his eyes glued to his hands, and for a fleeting moment Viktor feared that last night, in the glow of the moonlight, was the last time he would ever see Yuuri’s eyes.

District 12 was the first to unload, with One at the very back. Their capsules were right by the entrance from the hangar so Viktor could do nothing but watch as Yuuri walked away. He was ushered into his cell by a Peacekeeper and he promptly did as he was asked. Inside, folded on a metal table were his clothes. He examined the material closely as he pulled it on. The bottom layer was made of thin dry-fit material to keep him cool and dry. The outer layers were also designed to keep him dry, but they were thicker, designed for warmth. It was likely that the arena would be changing temperatures drastically and water was a prominent element. Viktor was not enough of a fool to think it would be drinkable. 

His white jacket was lined with green thread, meaning all the jackets would be color coded by District. His pants were long but designed to regulate temperature, same with his socks. His shoes were similar to the boots Yuuri wore hunting in 12. Another element designed to keep him dry. He wondered if Yuuri picked up on this. 

His stylist came in to ensure he was properly dressed. She slipped something out of her pocket and slipped it to Viktor. It was his ring. They had taken it from him during prep but now it was back in his palm. As he slowly slid it over his ring finger his stylist spoke softly, “Celestino has his.” Viktor nodded, he didn’t need to be told who ‘he’ was.

“I’m sorry,” She said finally as Viktor stepped into the tube. He reached a hand out and wiped one of her tears off her cheek. Viktor may have despised the Capitol now when he had once been indifferent, but his stylist’s had been nothing but kind to him. He hoped, in some future he would never see, if there was a civil war that his death would radicalize them to join the rebel cause.

As the tube closed he pulled his arm back in and recalled Minako’s plan. He recounted his allies in his head before pushing it all aside to focus on his first task, find Yuuri.  

His tube began to rise and the bright sun of the Arena hit his face right before the chill did. When he adjusted to the light and opened his eyes, the first thing he noticed was the snow. It was impossible to tell how deep it was from the platforms but the ground was thoroughly covered. He looked desperately for Yuuri but couldn’t find him which meant he was on the opposite side of the Cornucopia. He found Ophelia, who’s eyes met his and she gave a small tick of her head to her right. Yuuri.

Viktor nodded his thanks and looked around. None of the careers were in his line of sight either, meaning they were closer to Yuuri than he was. Likely intentional, He thought.

The larger timer and accompanying voice reached 20 seconds remaining, and Viktor focused on a plan. He would have to run through the Cornucopia to get to Yuuri. As a career, most of the other tributes would avoid him, his only threat was the other careers. He knew Ophelia was his safest bet. She had promised her allyship and he trusted her. If he ran fast enough he could pick up a weapon, and perhaps a bow, on his way by. He searched the opening to find the only bow on the opposite end. He weighed his options and shifted foot. He needed to get Yuuri a weapon. 

When the cannon sounded, Viktor was off. His feet slid in the snow as he made his first moves at getting traction, his height gave him an advantage and he was one of the first to reach the Cornucopia, he grabbed the bow and quill and slung it over his shoulders as he made his way around the corner, catching sight of Yuuri immediately. He was running away from the center and towards a bag stationed beyond the podiums. Victor turned his head at a flash of color, seeing another tribute running at Yuuri, weapon drawn. Viktor was still moving toward Yuuri but he wasn’t going to be fast enough. He shouted Yuuri’s name and he stumbled, eyes seeing the other tribute just as he threw his weapon. Viktor had an arrow drawn as Yuuri ducked, nearly missing him. Viktor let the arrow fly, remembering what Yuuri had taught him in his hunting lessons.

“You have to shoot where the prey is going to be, not where they are.”

Viktor didn’t have time to think, he let go and the arrow flew through the sky, missing the tribute but hitting his arm where he was drawing back to throw another knife. The tribute cried out in pain and dropped the knife as Viktor met Yuuri and pulled him toward the treeline. 

“No,” Yuuri shouted and pulled away from Viktor.

“Yuuri, we have to go,” Viktor kept pulling, his strength outweighing Yuuri’s.

“The pack,” Yuuri struggled.

“Leave it.”

“We can’t,” Yuuri slammed his heel into the toe of Viktor’s boot causing him to falter and Yuuri broke from his grasp. He shot back towards the bag as the male tribute they fought before came for vengeance. Yuuri ducked again, missing another black and throwing the pack around to his back. He took off running towards Viktor and he turned around to join him. They ran and ran until the cannons sounded, stopping to catch their breath among the trees. Viktor’s lungs ached with the cold air and his throat felt ragged. 

Only 4 cannons went off, a light load for the bloodbath, but Viktor assumed you didn’t become a Victor by falling for that first tease of violence.

He turned back to Yuuri.

“What were you thinking!?”

“I was thinking about our survival.”

“Yeah,” Viktor pulled a throwing knife out of the back of the bag where it missed the mark of Yuuri’s skull, “So was I.”

“We don’t know what this arena holds. We need to be prepared,” Yuuri was rummaging through the contents of the pack, “We need gloves.” He tossed a pair of warm hunters gloves to Viktor who signed and put them on. 

“Don’t do that again,” was all Viktor said and he leaned back against the tree.

They wandered further into the forest, the snow dwindling to less than half an inch under their feet. As the light started to fade, they set up camp.

When the slideshow played that night, Viktor was relieved to see Liesa’s face absent from the line up. The first day had taken the female from 8, the male from 9, and the females from 10 and 11.  

“We have to find her. I already abandoned her once. She sacrificed herself for Minako. I can’t do it again.”

Viktor didn’t argue, he just nodded, “We should sleep first.” 

Yuuri nodded and helped Viktor suspend the single hammock in the trees above them. Viktor climbed in first, Yuuri followed after. It was a tight and slightly uncomfortable fit, but it would work, and their body heat kept them warm.

Viktor couldn’t sleep so he focused on Yuuri’s steady breathing instead, lifting his hand to run through Yuuri’s hair. Yuuri hummed and burrowed in a little closer. Viktor’s chest ached with a need for more time with him. He knew realistically he would need rest, but his insomnia was already bad enough outside the arena, at least now he could savor these moments before they were gone. 

–

Viktor awoke to the sound of a cannon and rustling in the tree line. As he blinked awake he realized it was thunder and the sound of rain as it began to pour down on them. A mile away, lightning struck multiple times as the winds picked up, swaying their hammock. Viktor shook Yuuri awake, knowing they would need to get down or risk being tossed from the tree. 

Yuuri, ever the morning person, groaned and very slowly made his way down to a lower branch. They remained pressed against the trunk of the tree just above eye level. As Viktor was wrapping up their hammock, the branch they were just tied to snapped and plummeted to the ground. 

Yuuri scrambled to gather their supplies that spilled and Viktor ushered him along the tree line. The rain didn’t stop, lowering their visibility as they wandered through the trees. It soaked into the ground, creating a soppy muddy mess, pulling their feet into the soft ground as they moved.

The sound of water surrounded them and Viktor stopped to turn around. Cracking could be heard as water rushed the forest floor and flooded their feet, rising fast.

“We need to get to higher ground,” Viktor shouted through the rain.

“I think I saw a mountain to the Northeast.”

“It should be close, come on,” Viktor motioned in that direction and they began to move. They bagan the incline as the water reached their waist. Viktor turned around to check on Yuuri buyt he was gone.

“Yuuri! Yuuri, where are you!”

“Viktor, I’m over here,”

Viktor moved in the sound of Yuuri’s voice and found him around a bend, helping a soaked Liesa onto his back.

“Help, we can’t just leave her here!”

“Let me,” Viktor hiked the older woman onto his back and they moved. Slowly, the water began to lower as they moved up the base of the mountain. They kept climbing, pure adrenaline and need to survive driving them as the water topped off just under the tree line, far below them.

Viktor let Liesa down and Yuuri immediately was attending to her. While he did that, Viktor searched around for something to eat. 

The water didn’t subside by the time night fell.

The second day took the female from District 5 and the male from District 8. Viktor volunteered to take the first watch, letting Yuuri and Liesa curl up under the base of a tree.

He was starting to doze off when he shook himself awake with a tremor enough to feel as if the earth was shaking. He stood up and woke Yuuri up to switch, falling asleep as soon as his head hit Yuuri’s makeshift pillow.

He’d barely had his eyes shut before he woke to Yuuri shaking him. It took him a moment to gather his surroundings before he registered Yuuri’s panic.

“-moving now!”

He blinked in Yuuri’s direction as the world shook around him.

“Viktor, now! Help me.”

Viktor scrambled to his feet and began frantically packing up the things around them.

“What’s going on,” Viktor shouted. He saw and felt it before Yuuri could respond. Light flashed around them as something came hurtling towards them. “Yuuri!” Viktor flung himself across the space between them, tacking Yuuri and Liesa to the ground, causing the hot rock to miss them. He looked up and saw the glow of magma breaking the surface of the earth to pur towards them. The air was growing thicker by the second. “We have to go!”

Viktor hauled Liesa onto his back and they took off. They were dodging through the trees, hot rock and smoke clouding in around them. It was impossible to see where they were going, they just knew to avoid all sources of light. 

Hot rock shot from the sky and neither Viktor or Yuuri had time to dodge it. It hit Yuuri’s shoulder causing him to cry out and jerk himself backward into Viktor. Yuuri lost his footing, shaking Liesa loose from his back as he went down.

He could hardly see Yuuri through the smoke now, but he could hear him coughing through sobs and gasps of pain. 

“Liesa- I can’t-” Yuuri cried. Viktor moved towards his voice to find Yuuri on the ground. “I can, I can,” Yuuri repeated between coughs. “Where is she?”

“Liesa,” Viktor called. 

He caught sight of her silhouette moving towards the lava seeping out of the cracks in the Earth. When Liesa disappeared fully into the smoke, a cannon went off.

Yuuri broke down and Viktor simply pulled him to his chest, carrying him bridal style as he held onto Viktor’s shirt. Viktor ran like his life depended on it, and since Yuuri was in his arms, it did.

As he moved down the hill, the thick smoke began to clear, revealing the dawn light. Viktor followed the sound of water, Yuuri’s sobs softening now as the commotion of the night wore on him. He set Yuuri down by the water. He never thought he’d wish for snow as he inspected Yuuri’s ankle. It was swollen in his boot, but it wouldn’t hinder them longer than a day at most. The burn on his shoulder was more of Viktor’s concern. He learned a lot living in District 12 and one was how deadly burns could be. The dead skin was incredibly susceptible to deadly infection. Flashes of last year’s game played in Viktor’s mind. 

“I need to clean this,” Viktor said as he began to pull Yuuri’s singed jacket and shirt off. Yuuri let him without a word or any acknowledgement. He just sniffled once, his eyes bloodshot and red. Soot caked both of them from the smoke. “We should really wash up entirely. Do you think if I stand guard you can clean yourself.”

Yuuri nodded. After Viktor was satisfied with his cleaning job, he helped Yuuri get situated enough to wash himself while keeping his boot out of the water. 

Yuuri came back to him enough to keep a steady guard as Viktor did the same. There was a snap of a twig and Yuuri locked on immediately. A tribute pushed through the brush, hand held up in surrender.

“Woah, woah. I’m just here for the view,” The man smiled at Viktor before turning back to the man with the weapon on him. 

“Christophe.”

“Please, Niki only my mother calls me that. Chris is fine.”

“ Niki?” Yuuri grumbled next to him, weapon still drawn.

“Now, I’m not a homewrecker. Can’t a man just admire the view from outside the house. You can lower the weapon, Katsuki.”

“How do I know we can trust you?”

“He’s our ally, Yuuri. It’s okay.”

Yuuri looked at Viktor quizzically before lowering the bow.

Viktor pushed himself out of the water and Yuuri scoffed at him. 

“I can’t sit in there forever, Yuuri.”

Viktor couldn’t help but laugh a little at Yuuri’s obvious jealousy. Yuuri wouldn’t so much as touch Viktor outside of the press since the tour ended but now he was bothered by someone finding Viktor attractive. If Viktor wasn’t so enamoured, he may have called him on it. Instead Viktor took the exchange for what it was, a distraction. Yuuri was too focused on not trusting Chris to think about what just happened. 

“You’re alone,” Yuuri asked and Chris nodded. “Mai split off with the careers almost immediately. I’ve been on my own since the bloodbath.”

“Have you run into any catastrophes? ” Viktor asked as he pulled his clothes back on.

“Only blistering heat. If it wasn’t for one of my sponsors sending sun protectant, I’d probably have 3rd degree burns.”

“Wait, you have sun protectant,” Viktor asked, perking up.

“Yeah?”

“Can I see it?”

“Sure, but I don't know why you want it so bad, this weather is nothing.” Chris rummaged through the small bag wrapped around his waist, passing a small vile to Viktor.

Viktor opened the can and took a whiff. “ Aloe Vera,” He sighed. “Come here Yuuri take off your shirt.

Yuuri stood up and hissed as he took his shirt off. 

“Oh that’s a nasty burn, don’t tell me you guys were in that mess.”

“We lost someone,” Viktor replied as he began to massage the cool cream into Yuuri’s skin. Yuuri whined in pain and Viktor soothed him as best he could. “The Aloe Vera has soothing properties and the thick film of the protectant will keep it from getting infected. Chris, you are a lifesaver. ”

“Well, I do what I can.”

“How does that feel, Yuuri? Better?”

Yuuri nodded.

“Great. Well, I don;t know about you both, but I could eat.”

Yuuri refused to be left along with Chris so while he went out and scavenged, Viktor worked on cleaning some water for them to drink. After they had eaten, Chris led them to a cave he had found carved out at the bottom of a cliff beyond a large mass of water. It was the perfect place for them to settle for a day or two, until Yuuri could walk again. 

With nothing else to do, Viktor laid down with his back against the hard, rocky wall. Yuuri curled up next to him and Chris sat opposite of them. They chatted idly for a long time, ensuring they kept their voices low to avoid being found out.

Chris was in charge of scrounging for food while Viktor and Yuuri took turns preparing it.

The evening brought rain so heavy, Viktor was scared it would flood, but the downpour subsided and threw the arena into the dark of the night. Yuuri watched in silence as the presentation for the evening displayed a photo of Liesa, before he made his way back into the cave to sleep.

Viktor stayed up through the night to watch over him.

“You can sleep. I promise he’s safe with me.”

“I know, I trust you.”

“You want every second you can get,” Chris said like it made perfect sense to him, and maybe it did.

“Yeah.”

“Well if you decide you’d rather sleep, wake me up.”

“Will do.”

—

Viktor woke up the next morning to the sound of a cannon and Chris shaking him awake.

“Shit, I fell asleep?’

“Well your body does need rest, Niki.”

Viktor ran a hand down his face and stretched his back.

“Speaking of strength,” Chris continued, “Here.” He passed some meat to Viktor and he sat up so fast his head spun.

“You caught this?”

“Yeah, early this morning. Cooked it about a half mile south. There’s some for Yuuri too.”

“Thank you, Chris, I-”

“Don’t mention it. Allies are allies and we have work to do.” Viktor followed Chris’s eyes to where Yuuri still slept, curled up to make himself small. “I got something I think would make for a good splint.”

“He’s going to love that,” Viktor smiled, knowing Yuuri’s crankiness would be multiplied by ten when he was woken up and would have to endure the pain of Chris installing a splint to his ankle. 

“Better than being left for dead,” Chris teased.

“For him maybe, we may wish we were. The food will help.”

Viktor leaned down and gently shook Yuuri. When his brown eyes blinked open Viktor spoke softly, “Good morning, Lyubov . We have some food.”

Yuuri groaned and sat up slowly, using Viktor’s offered arm to pull himself up.

“How are you feeling,” Viktor asked as Chris passed him some food. Yuuri glared at Viktor and Viktor nodded, “Not great it seems,” He laughed. “Chris has a splint he’d like to try. It’s probably going to hurt but we need to get moving.”

Yuuri nodded and Chris got to work. Viktor watched as he united Yuuri’s book and pulled it off. Most of the swelling had gone down, which Viktor knew was a good sign. Chris used long pieces of leaves and sticks to create support for Yuuri’s ankle. Yuuri gasped and winced as he pulled it tight and Viktor looked back to see him frustratingly wiping tears away. Viktor didn’t say anything, just turned back to watch Chris work and placed his hand lightly on the small of Yuuri’s back. After a moment, he felt Yuuri rest his weight against him as Chris studied his work and replaced Yuuri’s shoe. 

“How’s that feel?”

“You’re a bitch,” Yuuri grumbled before sighing, “Better. Thank you, Chris.”

“Don’t mention it,” He paused as a cannon went off in the distance then added, “We should probably get moving soon. I don’t want to be stuck here when another disaster sets in.”

After Yuuri finished eating and properly woke up, they packed up their things and began to move.

They decided to head back towards the center to gather more supplies and chart out the arena. If what Minako had shared with Viktor during one of their many talks was true, they would need to locate the edge of the arena. 

They’d made it clearing, not devoid of snow and tributes. Yuuri and Viktor settled on a fallen log and began inspecting Yuuri’s ankle.

“How is it feeling,” Viktor asked. “I can always carry you.”

“Still sore, but manageable. Thank you. I don’t want you to wear yourself out.”

“Yuuri-”

A crack in the woods behind them stopped Viktor mid argument. The three of them whipped around to see a flash of red. 

Yuuri had his bow in his hand in an instant, but before he could even pull it back, Chris was moving.

“Mila?”

“Thank fuck we found you.”

Viktor stood as the small group moved into the clearing.

Viktor counted them, Mila from district 7 and Acer and Luxia from District 3.

“Where’s the other one,” Viktor said to Mila. “From 7.”

“Dead,” Mila said, “There were these…bugs carrying some disease. He hit their nest and got bit. He was dead in hours. Whatever they gave him got the woman from 6 too.”

“Shit,” Viktor said.

“Yeah, shit. ”

“If you think it’s contagious, how do we know if someone is sick,” Yuuri asked, standing up to join the conversation.

“I’m not really sure. Traian had a bite. The girl though… she complained about being hot and then cold, and she threw up a lot.”

“It’s probably viral then, spreads slower since there don’t seem to be any respiratory symptoms.”

As if on cue, Acer threw up into the brush, as he stood back up, blood clung to his chin and lips.

“Shit,” Mila said under her breath. She pulled her axe out of the ground and took a step forward, but Yuuri stopped her.

“What are you going to do?”

“Give him a hug,” she said flatly, ‘What do you think I’m going to do?”

“You can’t. Isn’t he our ally,” Yuuri looked between Viktor and Chris.

“He will get us all killed,” Mila said, moving again.

“You don’t know that.”

“Yuuri…” Viktor reasoned.

“No, no she can’t. Maybe there is an antidote. Maybe we can ask the sponsors. There has to be…”

There was a cannon sound and a scream from Acer’s partner. Viktor shot his head to the side where Acer had been standing only to find his body crumpled on the ground and the District 6 male tribute standing over him.

“Shit,” Mila said again and flung her axe at the man. “Run,” she yelled back to Yuuri and Viktor before pulling a throwing knife out of her boot.

Viktor grabbed Yuuri and ran despite the other man yelling at him to put him down. They followed Christophe and Luxia across the tall grass of the clearing, their boots sticking in the soft mud as they ran. There was another cannon but Viktor didn’t stop to look back. As they broke through the tre line again, Chris turned. 

“It was him.”

With the threat gone, and Viktor distracted, Yuuri pushed himself out of Viktor’s arms to fall unceremoniously to the ground, and he scrambled to look up at Viktor.

“What is wrong with you?”

Before Viktor could answer, Mila stepped into the group, gunning for Yuuri immediately.

“If you’re going to stand in the way of what’s best for this team, you can kiss my allyship goodbye. Never stand between me or a kill or it will be your blood on the axe next time. I don’t care.”

Viktor stepped between them and her eyes flicked to Viktor, all heat and anger, “Keep him in check or we’re done.”

Viktor nodded and turned to Yuuri.

“What is your obsession with trying to get killed?”

“Sorry I care about our allies,” Yuuri snapped. He was standing again, brushing himself off and still glaring down at Viktor, uncaring to the audience they had.

“I’m not here for them,” Viktor snarled back, and a part of him felt bad at admitting it in front of the very allies Yuuri was talking about, but Viktor knew they understood. They weren’t here for each other either.

“You can’t kill people to save me. Do you think I could live with myself if you did? It’s bad enough you plan to… “ Yuuri choked up. “Can’t you just let me help these people,” his voice shook as he made himself small. “Please. Just let me feel like I’m doing something good. I won’t ask you not to protect me, but at least let me help them.”

“You can’t save them, Yuuri. Whether you win or they do, you know there is no getting out of this.”

“Then why do you want me to win so badly?”

“Your family needs you. The country needs you. You fought hard to exist and you deserve to keep doing it.”

“Who says I want to if you can’t be there with me,” Yuuri said and it was almost too quiet to catch.

“We need to keep moving,” Mila interrupted and Yuuri dropped the topic. He walked around Viktor to pull the pack from his back open and passed their water to Mila in peace offering.

“Here.”

“Thanks.” She took a drink and passed it back. “How many is that now?”

Luxia held up her hand, “Acer, the woman from 5, District 6, Traian,” Her eyes fluttered to Mil before continuing, “District 8, the man from 9, District 10, and…the woman from 12.”

“Liesa,” Yuuri supplied.

“Wow, impressive you remembered all that,” Chris chimed on.

“I have a photographic memory. A blessing and a curse, I suppose.”

“She’s our map,” Mila added. “We should get moving.”

Viktor and Yuuri took up the end of the line as they made their way through the dense brush of the forest. The longer they walked the hotter it felt. Each member of the team was slowly shedding their outer layers. They took a rest near the base of the mountain, which made Viktor uneasy. Mila had told them just after they set off that the mountain was the only part of the arena accessible by foot. The rest of it was half a mile out into the water surrounding the landscape and was filled with some kind of amphibian that tore a tribute to shreds. Vitkor felt so sick at her description, he didn’t know how she was recalling it with a straight face.

This meant the only way to reach the edge of the arena was up the volcanic mountain.

“We need to keep moving,” Victor stood up and pulled Chris’s long knife out of ground and began pushing forward through the brush.

“Viktor, wait-” Acer called behind him, just as a force threw Viktor backward. The smell of smoke hit his nose before the world around him faded away. He heard Yuuri saying his name somewhere in the distance before that too faded away to nothingness. He felt like his entire life was flashing in his head, visions of Yuuri and his mother and the field behind his home. The sound of Russian lullabies and ‘ Viten’ka, ” before it fell away to nothingness.

Chapter Text

Someone was crying. It was so quiet, they must have spent years perfecting it, the art of how to cry without anyone else hearing them. Smell came to him next. Burning and sweat and something else, familiar and comforting. A smell like home .

“ Please, please-”

Sensation followed, he was barely aware of any of it, fading from his memory as fast as it appeared. Everything hurt. It hurt to breathe, to move, to exist. Someone was pushing on his chest repeatedly, before his head was tipped back and air flooded his lungs. He gasped and coughed, his body jerking. Someone let out a desperate, “Oh my god,” Before hands were on him, sitting him up. 

He opened his eyes to see Yuuri’s face. Behind him Chris sat back on his knees.

“Viktor,” Yuuri sighed in relief.

“Yuuri,” He responded before Yuuri’s soft lips were pressed to his. After a moment, Yuuri pulled back and leaned his forehead against Victor’s. “I thought I lost you. I thought you were-”

“I’m still here. It’s okay.” Viktor reached his hand up to cup Yuuri’s face and Yuuri leaned into his palm. “You’re not getting rid of me yet.”

Yuuri smiled and leaned back, “Do you want to stand?”

“Yeah.” Yuuri and Chris helped Viktor up to his feet and the world around him spun. “Hey, we the edge of the arena,” He joked and the group let out an uncomfortable laugh.

“Jesus, don’t scare us like that,” Chris said.

“Sorry,” Viktor said as he moved to where the rest of the group sat. “So what’s the plan now?”

“These trees are the tallest in the arena. The arena’s theme is natural disasters that work their way around the dome. If my predictions are correct…and they usually are, we are in for some kind of storm, with lightning in a day’s time. If we can get that cord from the cornucopia to run through these trees, we can lure the Careers to the center and electrify the wet ground.”

“That seems awfully risky,” Chris butts in.

“Do you have a better plan,” Mila asks.

“‘Suppose not. Carry on.”

“Viktor,” Yuuri whispered, leaning towards him.

“Yes, Yuuri?”

“I don’t like this. What happens when the Careers are gone?”

“We run. I won’t let anything happen to you.”

Before Yuuri could respond to that, Mila chimed in, “Something you boys would like to share?”

“No. Yuuri was just worried like Chris. I think it’s a brilliant plan,” Viktor smiled and patted Yuuri’s knee. For a moment his mind flickered to the Career pack. When Acer had listed all the deaths he never mentioned Ophelia. Viktor really did hope she was okay, but also hoped they didn’t cross paths. 

After discussing the plan more, the group made their way back to the center, marking the trail as they went, but before they left, Yuuri tore a piece of his jacket to tie around a tree near the arena wall.

“Just to be safe,” He said as he rejoined Viktor.

Yuuri and Viktor remained side by side as they made the preparations for their plan.

–

Once they had reached the treeline, the team set up guard to gather the supplies. Heat set in as they made their way back to their camp. Luckily, Acer and Mila had stored water in their packs. They passed the canteens around as they talked through their plan.

“Mila and Viktor, will take the spool and wind it around the trees until you get to sopping sand around the cornucopia. Yuuri and Chris stay here and defend me while I attach the cord to these trees,” Acer pointed to where Yuuri’s jacket was tied.

Viktor caught Yuuri’s wild eyes immediately as he spoke up. “Viktor and I are staying together.”

“I need two people to watch my back,” Acer replied calmly.

“Mila can stay.”

“No, Viktor and I are the best in close combat. Yuuri, is there a problem?”

Yuuri looked at Viktor again before quietly responding, “No.”

“Great, then the plan kicks off at sundown. We should have 2 hours until the lightning hits but other weather anomalies are likely so we need to be prepared,” Acer supplied. 

Yuuri took the first chance he could to speak to Viktor, but the rest of the group seemed weary about letting the two speak alone.

“What do we do,” Yuuri whispered frantically.

“Follow the plan,” Viktor didn’t look away from his task, he could feel Mila’s eyes on them.

“But, Viktor-”

“Yuuri, there isn’t anything we can do. We need our allies. Protect Acer and if you hear a canon sound, run. Don’t trust anyone.”

“Viktor-”

“Just trust me Yuuri, please.”

Yuuri turned away without a word.

They didn’t speak again until they left. As Mila and Viktor prepared the line, Yuuri walked over to him and pulled him into a tight embrace.

“Come back to me,” Yuuri kissed his cheek as he pulled away and Viktor smiled at him softly.

“I will.”

Viktor and Mila made their way through the dense tree line. The wind was picking up, blowing Viktor’s hair across his face. For a fleeting moment he wished he thought to cut it before the games, but then he remembered the way Yuuri mindlessly played with the ends of it as a distraction when they laid together and shook the thought away. If he was to die in this arena, he wanted to have every piece of Yuuri there with him.

“You really love him don’t you,” Mila said as they stepped over some fallen limbs.

“How could I not?”

She just hummed before saying, “You’re lucky you know. The Capitol doesn’t sit well with being made a fool. They’ll take them away before you even know you had something to lose.”

Viktor didn’t think Mila was talking about Viktor anymore but he didn’t press. He knew the reality of the country. He knew he and Yuuri were lucky, at least for a while. Now they’re here and this time there would only be one winner. Drops of water began to fall from the sky, signaling the start of the storm.

“Make them pay for it,” Viktor replied and Mila cracked a smile.

The peace was interrupted a moment later when a branch in the distance snapped and a canon went off.

“Yuuri.” Viktor was turning around faster than his mind had time to process everything around him. He heard someone call his name behind him but he was already on the move, plan forgotten with the need to protect Yuuri. This had all been for him, hadn’t it?

Footsteps followed him, moving fast over the limbs, Viktor turned back, survival instincts kicking in to gauge how far his pursuer was. As he turned back around he failed to clear a fallen tree and fell to the ground hard. He was so close to where he’d last seen Yuuri.

Thunder rolled as the rain began to pour, turning the ground under his hands into mud. He turned around to ward off his attacker, but was pushed to the ground by Mila. She put a boot on his hand and a knife to the skin of his arm. Viktor kicked her and pain ripped up his bicep Viktor screamed as the heat took over the entire appendage.

“Stay down,” Mila grunted and she pushed his head back into the mud, footsteps came from behind her and she looked frantically to Viktor before shaking her head and taking off. A moment later Chris’s voice called through the trees after her.

Yuuri.

Viktor pulled himself together, gritting his teeth as he tried to force himself up, his mangled arm collapsing under his weight, throwing him back into the mud. A voice called out to him, and he followed it to see Yuuri at the tree line, calling for him. 

Then he stopped, having heard something out of Viktor’s earshot. Yuuri turned around, taking steps back from something hidden from Viktor’s sight in the downpour.

Ophelia stepped forward, and Viktor watched, vision going hazy distorted image of Yuuri took another step back away from her. She sprung forward, grabbing Yuuri’s arm. Someone screamed, Viktor realized but he couldn’t tell who. Viktor blinked in and out of consciousness, trying to will himself to move, to get up, to get to Yuuri, but it was no use. His head was pounding as he rolled onto his back. Someone was crying in the distance, trying so hard not to be heard. They were in pain. If Viktor had had enough cognitive thought, he might have realized it was Yuuri. There was another shout, white light flooded Viktor’s vision.

Above him the trees were crashing down, fire spreading among the leaves as the bright sky shone through the faux dark one. 

This is it, Viktor thought. He’d died and was on his way to the Thereafter. He closed his eyes and accepted his fate. He just hoped Yuuri wasn’t waiting for him.

Chapter Text

Burning, searing pain flooded his veins and ignited along his nerves. All he could do was scream . Scream until his voice was hoarse, until he could no longer make any sound at all, and then he cried.

Visions of his past flashed before his eyes.

There was Yuuri in the arena.

Pain.

Sitting next to Yuuri on the train.

Burning.

Yuuri in their bed, Yuuri in the meadows beyond 12.

The memories were all of Yuuri.

His Yuuri. 

Fear overtook his body.

No… that was wrong, wasn’t it? Yuuri loved him. 

Or did he?

No, no. Yuuri had saved him. 

No. He used him.

Something was wrong. He was wrong. Everything he knew was a garbled mess, but one thing now stood true among the rest.

Yuuri was dangerous. He was cunning and manipulative. He would kill them all.