This time the preparation was canceled, there was no recommendation from Effie or Haymitch, which greatly relieved Jacob's thoughts.
According to his plans, it was no longer time to please the audience, there was no latent need for it in his upcoming actions. Once the games started, Jacob would wait for Haymitch and as many allies as possible to distance themselves from the Capitol before launching his attack.
How would they do it? It's quite simple. First of all, an exit would be offered to all mentors of the professional tributes just moments before the global uprising. They would be ready, and an airship controlled by Jacob's assistant would be waiting to transport them to District 12.
It's easy for Jacob's assistant to infiltrate the Capitol's communication network, so carrying out these small tasks until the end would be somewhat straightforward. According to the information, some Avoxes were inside the alliance formed in District 10, making everything much easier.
"You have to do it with the arena airships and a special one in this location, temporarily disable the light in the entire Capitol while the others escape..." Jacob knew he was asking for a lot, but his intelligent assistant had been in the network since he first came to this place.
"[Understood, Master!]"
Jacob had been immersed in calculated silence and relentless focus as he prepared for the impending crucial moment. He gave orders with determination, communicating directly with District 13 to coordinate their actions. The time to act had arrived, and Jacob had no intention of wasting a single second.
Conversations transmitted through encrypted communications made it clear that the uprising was just days away from being launched. There was no room for doubt or indecision anymore. It was time to give everything, to risk it all and fight with all they had, regardless of the consequences.
Jacob made sure to convey his will to every member of his team. He reminded them of the mission's importance and the need to be willing to sacrifice everything for the cause. The words that came out of his mouth were filled with conviction and leadership, fueling the flame of rebellion burning within each of them.
Amidst the darkness of his room, Jacob devised strategies and analyzed every possible scenario. His sharp and calculating mind worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the uprising. He knew they would face a powerful and ruthless enemy, but that didn't intimidate him. He was willing to risk it all for freedom and justice.
The last words of his communication with District 12 and 11 resonated in his mind. "We'll give everything we have, until our last breath," he conveyed with a voice full of determination and bravery.
Jacob knew the uprising would be a bloody and dangerous battle. There were no guarantees of success, but that wouldn't stop him. He was ready to confront the enemy face to face, to lead his people and fight to the end, regardless of the cost.
The darkness of the night loomed over him as he prepared for the next phase of the fight. The moment of truth was approaching, and Jacob was ready to face it with the strength and determination found only in those willing to give everything for a just cause.
The fate of his people and the future of the resistance were in his hands. There was no room for doubt or fear. Jacob was determined to lead them to victory or die trying. It was time for the Capitol to experience the true power of those who fight for freedom.
...
That same morning, Jacob was notified by his preparation team, and silently they all began to get ready.
The preparation team led by Portia was dedicated to working on Jacob's transformation for the upcoming challenges he would face. Amidst that process, during a moment of rest, Portia approached Jacob and expressed her sincere pride and gratitude.
"Jacob, I want to tell you that I'm truly proud of you," Portia said with a voice filled with sadness. "It has been an honor to work with you on your preparation for these two consecutive years. Your focus and indomitable spirit are truly inspiring."
Jacob listened attentively to Portia's words, and a grateful smile formed on his lips. He looked up at her and responded sincerely, "Portia, your words mean a lot to me. In this dark path we find ourselves in, it's important to remember that where there is darkness, there is always light. You and the entire prep team have been that light for me, guiding me and helping me find my inner strength."
Portia nodded affectionately and added, "I have always believed in your potential, Jacob. Your courage and focus have been evident since the first day I met you. I'm confident that you're ready to face any challenge that comes your way."
Jacob felt comforted by Portia's words. He knew he had the unwavering support of his prep team and that they had worked hard together to strengthen his skills and mindset. He greatly appreciated the bond that had formed among them, based on mutual respect and trust.
"Portia, I want you to know that I deeply value everything you have done for me all these days," Jacob said with gratitude in his voice. "I wouldn't have come this far without your guidance and support. You're an incredibly talented person, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to work with you."
Portia smiled humbly and replied, "The honor has been mine, Jacob. Witnessing your growth and determination has been truly rewarding. I'm certain you will achieve great things."
At that moment, the prep team resumed their work, ready to continue fine-tuning every detail of Jacob's appearance and training. They knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but they were united in their purpose and willing to face any obstacles.
Jacob felt strengthened by Portia's words and the trust she had placed in him. He knew he wasn't alone in this battle and that together they would overcome every challenge that arose on their path to victory.
...
Everyone is gathered with Effie, Haymitch, Katniss, and Jacob in the elevator. Jacob is wearing a sleek tuxedo with white gloves. The kind of thing grooms wear to get married, here in the Capitol.
Back home, Katniss thought everything was much simpler. The bride usually rents a white dress that has been worn hundreds of times. The groom wears something clean that isn't work clothes. They fill out some forms at the Justice Building, and they're assigned a house. Family and friends gather for a meal or a bit of cake, if they can afford it. Even if they can't, there's always a traditional song they sing as the new couple walks under the threshold of their home. And they have their own ceremony when they make their first fire, toast some bread, and share it.
It may be old-fashioned, but nobody feels truly married in District 12 until after the toasting.
The other tributes have already gathered backstage and are speaking softly, but when Jacob and Katniss arrive, they fall silent.
As minutes pass, Jacob's cold eyes survey the surroundings, and upon seeing tears in the audience, his fists clenched tightly in anger. The moment will come when they will shed real tears.
When Katniss finished her show, she looked at Jacob, who seemed angry the whole time, and their gaze met. He gave her a sign of admiration.
"It's my turn, Katniss..."