27

Summary

• Coriolanus becomes anxious when he can't find Sejanus and worries that Sejanus might be conspiring with rebels.
• Sejanus returns, claiming to have been outside due to the effects of white liquor; Coriolanus doubts his explanation.
• Coriolanus decides he needs a new strategy to handle Sejanus after suspecting his loyalty to the Capitol may be wavering.
• The next day, still affected by the liquor, Coriolanus resolves to keep a watchful eye on Sejanus.
• Sejanus maintains normal behavior, joining in after-event tasks without slipping away.
• Coriolanus and Sejanus visit a lake, accompanied by Lucy Gray and others, who leave their instruments behind.
• Lucy Gray hints at a romance blossoming between Barb Azure and a neighboring woman.
• They encounter a variety of natural elements and wildlife during their hike to the lake, navigating without a clear path.
• Once at the lake, Coriolanus joins in with the Covey's swimming and relaxation activities, temporarily forgetting his worries.
• Coriolanus reflects on the difference between life in the Capitol and the freer, natural lifestyle he's experiencing.
• The group enjoys a meal of fish, bread, berries, and sugar cookies, with Coriolanus appreciating the simple joys.
• Maude Ivory asks Coriolanus about his name, suggesting that Lucy Gray write a ballad about him.
• Lucy Gray apologizes to Coriolanus for their previous argument, and they discuss the nature of the Hunger Games and the Capitol's role.
• Lucy Gray questions the freedoms given up for safety, and reveals her trust in Coriolanus.
• Coriolanus's trust is tested when he learns Lucy Gray met with Billy Taupe, who proposed they run away together.
• Lucy Gray and Coriolanus discuss the nature of trust, love, and the betrayal by Billy Taupe.
• The Covey head back after their day at the lake, with Coriolanus carrying Maude Ivory part of the way.
• Sejanus leaves for the Hob without Coriolanus, prompting worry about Sejanus's possible actions.
• Coriolanus rushes to find Sejanus at the Hob, suspecting him of potentially buying weapons with Capitol money.
• Coriolanus reassures Sejanus that he is like a brother and can be trusted, despite internal suspicions.
• The chapter ends with Sejanus about to confess something to Coriolanus, who secretly records the conversation using a jabberjay.