Katniss tells Gale that she has traded in her plan to run away so that she can start an uprising in District 12. There is a blizzard in District 12, and no one is able to go out. During the time she is stuck inside, Katniss reflects that her biggest problem will be that she is so easy to reach. The Capitol has only to harm Prim to reach her. On the other hand, the Capitol has already harmed Prim by forcing her to watch Katniss in the Games, by calling her name in the Reaping, and by allowing her father to die in a mining accident. Katniss hardens her resolve to fight back as Gale slowly heals from his injuries. She also apologizes to her mother for her outbursts the night before.

Once the blizzard passes, Katniss joins Peeta and Haymitch for a walk to the town square. As they leave the Victor’s Village, Katniss shares with Haymitch her determination to start an uprising. Her old mentor scoffs at her plan and says that his only plan for the time being is to see Katniss married to Peeta—and the sooner the better. Katniss does not see why her plan should fail. However, as they enter the town square, she begins to get a sense of what is going on.

There is not only a new Head Peacekeeper in District 12. Now there is a whole new unit of Peacekeepers with new uniforms. Gallows and whipping posts have been constructed in front the Justice Building. Also, the Hob, the black market where Katniss sells wild game and where Haymitch buys liquor, has been burned down. Katniss is outraged because the Hob allows people to make a living. However, it also illustrates how difficult it would be to lead a rebellion in District 12. The people seem subdued regardless of the injustices that are enforced at the Justice Building.

Even Gale is no longer poaching. It has always been forbidden to go out into the woods, but now it is especially dangerous. Nevertheless, Katniss puts on her warmest clothing and goes into the woods. On her way home, she senses a weapon aimed at her. She turns, bow loaded, and sees a white Peacekeeper’s uniform. However, before she shoots to kill, the stranger shows her a familiar emblem: a mockingjay.