alternatives {pierce's event proposal}

The first thing that came to her mind when asked to propose an event was a memorial. But thinking twice about it, Pierce knew that she did not want to incorporate her children's deaths into her campaign; she was never one to ask for pity, and she knew that if she mentioned it, she would crumble into a sobbing mess on stage. She would lose herself, probably say things towards the Capitol that she didn't mean to let slip out. And she knew better than to speak out against them; if she provoked them, they could take more of her daughters or investigate her, which she knew wouldn't end well.

She had gone for an alternative, instead.

"The event I propose," she said into the microphone, "will be held here at the College. It will be a festival, though not necessarily the traditional kind. This festival would be . . . a 'science fest,' with activities and games that focus on our district's industry. There will also be food, dancing, and live music, of course."

A certain violin requiem runs through her head, and she smiles.

"But, this festival will have a purpose. It can help raise money for a new agenda in mental health so our institutions can have enough funding to further research and care for those in need."