Witness

Every guest in the hall turned toward the long table by the windows. When Eucali came out of the restroom, she found the restaurant in chaos: Hesta and Eleven were confronting a group of elderly women, one of whom had blood all over her arm, while Ligo and Kiki were nowhere to be seen. Startled, she hurried over.

The moment Eucali appeared, she heard one of the old women mutter, "Hesta people! Hah! District 14 is practically taking over this place today..."

Eucali's heart gave a violent thump. She knew the woman had recognized her hair color, but she did not know how to respond, so she pretended not to hear and merely hurried to Hesta's side. "What happened?"

"You came at the perfect time!" Eleven's face was flushed red with agitation. "Hurry and tell Jane! We were bullied!"

Eucali froze. "...Who bullied you?"

"Don't worry, we're fine," Hesta said quietly. "Help me ask Eleven what exactly they called Kiki."

Eleven had already explained a great deal to Hesta, but Hesta had only understood one thing: these old women speaking District 3 Language had started the insults.

Eucali crouched down to listen as Eleven recounted the details. Then she rose and spoke softly enough that only Hesta could hear. "Eleven said she couldn't understand what they were saying. She only judged from their expressions and tone... Where are Kiki and Ligo? Are they okay?"

"Over there." Hesta gestured with her chin.

Eucali looked in that direction and saw Ligo holding Kiki in another corner of the restaurant, speaking with several diners. A few strangers stood beside Ligo as well. As they talked, they occasionally nodded to one another or sighed. Kiki was leaning in Ligo's arms, wiping away tears without stopping.

"What is she doing?"

"I don't know." Hesta lowered