After a stressful event, Grandma’am suggests Coriolanus takes a nap before supper.
Coriolanus wakes up to Tigris waking him, informing him that Satyria called and he should call her back.
Tigris has made noodle soup from chicken carcasses, and Coriolanus eats after initially refusing.
Coriolanus discusses with Tigris a horrific event with Dr. Gaul and the snakes, Tigris recommends avoiding her.
Under Tigris’ advice, Coriolanus decides not to report Dr. Gaul’s actions as she is too powerful.
Coriolanus is haunted by recent events, including mentorship difficulties and the suffering of his tribute, Lucy Gray.
When Satyria finally calls again, she asks him to sing at Arachne’s funeral, he agrees despite admitting he can't really sing.
The next morning, Grandma’am helps Coriolanus prepare for the performance, including practicing and dressing him up appropriately.
Coriolanus performs the anthem at the funeral with hesitant confidence and receives approval from the audience.
President Ravinstill speaks at the funeral, emphasizing the defiance against the rebellion and dedication to justice.
The funeral procession includes a demeaning display of the captured and defeated tributes, intended to remind the districts of their place.
Coriolanus reflects on the overblown nature of Arachne’s funeral and has an encounter with Dean Highbottom who expresses cynicism about the pomp.
During a luncheon, Coriolanus fills up on food, noting his lack of self-control. Meanwhile, Sejanus struggles to eat due to being upset by the funeral.
Satyria informs the mentors that they will escort tributes on a televised tour of the arena, despite security concerns.
Coriolanus smuggles food for Lucy Gray into the arena and expresses his rebellion by doing so.
Vivid descriptions of the decayed Capitol Arena are given, including its history and state post-war.
Coriolanus shares a private moment with Lucy Gray, giving her the smuggled food and discussing the morning events.
The tribute parade around the arena is a sorrowful imitation of more joyful times, and Coriolanus contemplates strategies for Lucy Gray.
A sudden, shocking explosion occurs, ending the chapter on a cliffhanger.