Two Peacekeepers stood by Wiress and Beetee as they walked hand in hand into the chambers of the Panem Supreme Court. "All rise for the emergency session of the Panem Supreme Court." The clerk announced. President Snow and another Capitol official stood as nine Justices filed into their places at the bench.
"We are called here in the matter of the Capitol versus Beetee Tesla and Wiress Carpeter." The Chief Justice, designated by the gold woven into his black robe, announced. "Mr. Beetee Tesla, how do you plead in the assault and battery of Communications and Technology Minister Devonius Smith?"
"Guilty, Your Honor." Beetee replied as his hand twitched in Wiress's.
"And Miss Wiress Carpenter, how do you plead in attempting to incite a rebellion through the use of public appearances and televised media?" Wiress swallowed and blinked back tears.
"Guilty, Your Honor." She managed above a whisper.
"The Court has reviewed the evidence and has affirmed both your guilty pleas." A woman in a turquoise wig announced. "The Court has also met and will present your sentences." She nodded at the Chief Justice to read off the piece of paper in front of him.
"Wiress Carpenter, as you are a minor, you will be monitored until you are of age and your record will be sealed upon your demonstration of good behavior." Wiress nodded. "In exchange, you will serve the Capitol's needs as an inventor and presenter of new technology. Until you reach the age of eighteen, you will reside within the Capitol where this administration sees fit." The Chief Justice gave a nod to President Snow who smiled. Wiress gasped as Beetee held her hand in a white-knuckled grip. "Beetee Tesla, you will return to District Three and return only to the Capitol for the annual Hunger Games. Your punishment will be carried out upon your return, however, you will still be able to invent. You will be placed under house-arrest until the next Hunger Games. The Court has spoken in this matter. All are adjourned." With the clap of his gavel on the wooden podium, the nine Justices rose and exited the court room.
"Oh - Beetee -" Wiress whispered as Beetee wrapped his arms around his charge.
"I'm sorry, Wiress." Beetee sobbed as he held her close. "I'm so sorry."
"Don't be." Wiress whispered cupping his face with her hands. Beetee's heart broke as he saw the bravery in Wiress' face. "We will still see each other."
"I'll think of you every day -" Beetee's words were cut off by a kiss. His hands found Wiress's and he memorized their small delicate features.
"You'd better." Wiress giggled winking coyly. As they broke apart, Beetee's hands were cuffed to the Peacekeepers beside him. President Snow came behind Wiress and wrapped his arms around her. "Beetee, no matter what happens, I love you."
"I love you, Wiress Carpenter. You're my best friend and co-inventor no matter where we are. I'll send my love and strength to you every day." Beetee called before the Peacekeepers walked him out of the courtroom. Wiress watched him leave and stood up straighter. No matter where he was, she would do everything in her power to ensure that they would meet again. Wiress put her hand in her dress pocket and felt an object that wasn't there before. A wire was bent into the letters BW that were connected. Wiress examined it in the palm of her hand. It's my district token. I will wear it to remind me that even in the Capitol, Beetee is thinking of me.
She's not coming back with me. The realization hit Beetee with full force as he was marched down the steps of the Supreme Court building. The Peacekeepers settled him in the back seat of their car. As they pulled away, Beetee noticed something was in his closed hand. As he straightened his cramped fingers, he saw a bright yellow piece of fabric. Wiress' ribbon. Tears rolled down his face. "Oh Wiress." he whispered. "I'll see you in a few months. You stay strong, squirt." He made a promise to keep her ribbon with him so a part of her would never leave his side. Though they wouldn't meet again under happy circumstances, they would be reunited at the fiftieth Hunger Games. Beetee hoped the Capitol wouldn't break Wiress' sharp mind or strong spirit before then.
A/N: The sequel: Large Eyes Crying is now up.