wheels . district 3 ( trying out a new style .. again- feel free to give your thoughts about the first person pov in the comments <3 ) The bells reach me before the crowd does. Soft, chiming notes drifting through the cold air and brushing my whiskers as I pad forward in line. Snow dusts the stone beneath my paws, and I place each step carefully, head low but steady. The new outfit shifts with me as the wind catches it, lighter than anything I’ve worn before. Layers of cream and pine-green fabric are fitted neatly to my scrawny frame, tailored so nothing tangles in my legs or pulls at my shoulders. Brass filigree traces the seams like delicate vines, catching the warm Capitol lights. Small clockwork ornaments rest at my shoulders and hips, their gears turning slowly, purely decorative. A short cloak drapes over my back, fur-trimmed and clasped at my chest with a snowflake-shaped pin of burnished gold. It feels innocent. Festive. Almost gentle. As I flick an ear, I notice the faint gleam of gold along its edge, a thin line of dried golden blood, placed carefully rather than concealed. A reminder that I will not be alone in these games and have a team waiting for me, no matter how terrifying it may be. Ahead of me, two massive horses wait, wreaths and bell harnesses framing their proud forms. The sleigh behind them gleams, but what catches my attention is the way it’s been prepared. A small, velvet-lined step unfolds smoothly from its side, accompanied by a low, gently sloped ramp disguised with garlands and lights. Decorative rails curve upward, warm to the touch, just high enough for balance without looking clinical. I approach, testing the distance, then step up, my upgraded brace moving easily with me. It’s no longer the harsh thing it once was. Polished brass plates and dark leather wrap my leg, the joints assisted by fine springs that respond to my weight. Each movement feels smoother, quieter, like the brace understands me now. I climb into the sleigh without a stumble, as I sigh in quiet relief. Velvet cushions cradle me as I settle, garlands framing the seat and tiny lights reflecting in my eyes. When the horses begin to move, the sleigh glides forward, bells chiming softly in time with my breathing. The cheers rise as we enter the plaza, snowflakes drifting down to catch in my cloak and along the engraved edges of my brace. Warm lamplight gleams off brass and fur, off the faint gold at my ear. I sit tall, paws folded neatly, expression calm. I know this matters more than anything, so I wave. Its a nervous thing, but friendly nonetheless. I'll play the part, I'll be the tom from three that hasnt gotten a chance but I am getting home. I will see him again, and when I do- oh what a story I'll tell.
