Chapter 18

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Stood upon a platform, Helena was preparing for her crowning ceremony. Rosier was currently styling her hair, preparing her for the day. "You'll take a chariot down the avenue of tributes until you reach the Hall of Justice. There, you'll be escorted to the presidential balcony where you'll meet with President Snow and receive  your crown, broadcast in front of the entirety of Panem." Rosier explained. "After that is your interview with Caesar. He'll play clips from your game, painful memories that you might not want to see, but you have to stay strong. Do you understand?" The stylist asked. Her hair was styled into an elegant half-up-half-down with white roses, golden vines, and sapphires stabbed at the back. Helena nodded as the man moved onto makeup.

A soft, smokey eye was dusted above her eye while drips of gold ran down her cheeks like tears. Her lips were painted a dark red before gloss was applied. Rosier curled her lashes before applying mascara.

It was soon time for her to change into her Victor dress. Rosier opened the dress bag, and Helena couldn't help but gasp. It was beautiful. Gold in colour, the corset bodice had a look of marble to it. The gold tulle skirt was secured by a belt of sapphire encrusted gold. Off the shoulder sleeves hung down flowing, held together by two sapphire broaches. But what made the dress truly magnificent was the golden wings that opened over her shoulders, at the centre, a large sapphire. "Rosier, this is amazing!" The girl exclaimed, a genuine smile on her face for the first time in days. She smoothed her hand over the fabric as she looked at herself in the mirror. Helena felt beautiful and powerful, like nothing could harm her. The heels that snaked their way up her leg gave her an added sense of protection.

The stylist looked down at his watch. "It's time to go. Are you ready to face the crowd? As their newest Victor?" He asked. Helena smiled at the man. "Y'know what? I think I am." She replied. Rosier smiled back to the young girl. "Then let's go and show the world that their little dove has returned." He stated, holding out a hand for the Victor to grab. Helena accepted it gratefully, and the pair made their way down to the catacombs.

A chariot stood before them decorated with white roses and golden vines. Gold cages with candles sat on either side of the chariot. It was held by two gorgeous black horses with gold painted hooves. Their white manes were decorated with golden cuffs and white roses. Rosier helped Helena aboard. "I've got to go sit in the crowd, but I'll see you before the interview." He told the girl. She nodded before being left alone.

On the balcony, Snow stood addressing his people. "People of Panem, today we celebrate a new Victor, whose odds were favoured. Today, Miss Baird's crowning does not signify just another Victor. No. Her crowning marks for a new milestone. Today, Helena claims the title of Youngest Victor to ever win the Hunger Games." He spoke with a politician smile. "Please give our Victor a warm welcome." At Snow's words, the Horns of Victory began to play, and the doors to the catacombs opened.

The chariot began its journey down the Avenue of Tributes. Helena was almost deafened by the cheers of the Capitol. A smile was plastered on her face as she waved to the people. "Lena! Lena!" The people cheered, their love overwhelming. She went to reach for Cole's hand beside her, only to be reminded he was no longer there. Helena took in a deep breath before placing her hand back on the chariot handle and resumed waving at the Capitolites. She saw Snow's eyes upon her, and so she gave him a polite nod as she went out of his sight.

Two Peacekeepers escorted her up to the balcony. She was led to a throne of gold, where she sat with a smile on her face. Snow approached her with an intricate tiara in his gloved hands. It had two bands of pearls held together with gold and sapphire birds. At the top, it had two wings holding a single diamomd. Helena bowed her head down to allow its placement. It felt heavy on head, the weight of which signifying what she had to hold for the rest of her life.

"Congratulations, Miss Baird." The President spoke. "Thank you, Mr. President." She responded curtly. Snow offered her a hand, and she took it. He led her towards the front of the balcony. "Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you your newest Victor, The Dove of Panem, Helena Jade Baird!" He announced, still holding onto her. Helena waved with her other hand as petal confetti hailed from above.

Helenas crown and dress.


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