Below is a gigantic lake, big enough to be an ocean.

And I can’t swim.

HELEN’S P.O.V.

This is terrible. We are going to have to swim all the way to the life packs and I just can’t do that. I heard some nervous mumbles behind me and I know other girls are thinking the same thing.

In District 5, we’re not super wealthy like they are in District 1 so about 99% of don’t own our own pool. And the closes public pool is miles away in District 4, so we’re not really known for being able to swim.

Suddenly, arm hooked through mine. I frowned in confusion as I looked at the girl beside me. She had gorgeous blonde hair and blue eyes. She smiled at me and I smiled back.
“Hey,” she said, “I’m Valerie, want to be my ally?”

I frowned, “I’m Helen nice to meet you… but why would you want me on your team?” I asked. I don’t know her from anywhere and I’m not special in anyway.

“Because you’re cool,” she smiles again. I have a feeling she probably wants me for a different reason than just because I am “cool”. “And plus,” she added, “I’ve seen you with that bow and arrow. You’re really good. So what do you say?”

“Sure,” I smiled back.

“Hey, whatcha guys doing?” I heard another voice as I turned around. There’s another girl with thick eyeliner and a bunch of tattoos. Looking at her makes me feel insecure. She’s beautiful and strong in the most intimidating way.

I saw Valerie roll her eyes from the corner of my eye.

“I’m Isha,” she said. “Mind having me on your team?”

“Sur-” I started to say but was cut off by Valerie.

“No.” She said, “Absolutely not.”

Isha raised her eyebrows, “Well, it’s not up to you to decide, is it?” She looks back at me, “What do you say Helen?”

“Sure, why not,” I said.
It seems like my two allies don’t like each other.

Notes