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Comfygazing
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Posted: Wed, 26/01/2022 17:45 (3 Years ago)

Watching the two, San couldn't help but cackle silently as air passed through broken vocal cords, hands shaking with mirth as he pressed his knuckles together over his heart, wiggling his thumbs almost teasingly. Anyone who recognized the sign also smirked, but once San wiggled both open palms up and down his chest, they all nodded with and soft almost yearning look on their face. It was heartwarming to see two friends reunite even if it wasn't under the best of circumstances. Joy was a precious commodity in these times and it was to be cherished and held close whenever it was found.

Besides, those two seemed like they had complimentary powers. One was a tank while another was a healer. Add in a dps brawler like San, and it was almost like they had a the holy trinity of an adventuring trio!

Glancing towards the boy (really he was a boy. No one who looked any younger than 20 should be on this metal hunk of a death sentence) who had first spoken up, surprise colouring his voice at the two's reunion, he narrowed his eyes. Something was... off. Perhaps it was his own paranoia speaking but Jordan looked conflicted about something. It never bode well when someone was conflicted as it meant that there was something wrong. Or at least something that forced someone to be at war with themself. But then again, he did have a tendency to be a little jumpy around new people so he couldn't be blamed at all for being suspicious of any behaviors that he deemed odd

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Posted: Wed, 26/01/2022 09:30 (3 Years ago)

One of San's ears twitched at the arrival of a newcomer, and he peeked through his lashes to catch a glimpse. He had heard of the name Jaxson before from the lips of those who had been sent out on various missions. He had defended and saved the lives of many of those he had come to regard as siblings and San couldn't help but feel gratefulness towards a man he had never meet before. Anyone who showed kindness to freaks like them would always be San's favourite type of people. Many of his family owed their lives to this man and he could see why. Just from appearances, Jaxon seemed reliable and bared many resemblances to San's own physical stature, both being short and stocky. But still, he had no real investment in Jaxson. He would thank the man once he had the chance, but now was not it.

Closing his eyes, he yawned much like a cat would and clambered off the laps of the now much calmer recruits. They let him go, but not without obligatory whining and complaints which San shushed, reminding them that they were still being watched even if it didn't look like it. They could never bee to careful after all. Ruffling the heads of some of the younger ones, making sure to gently drag his tail over each wrist comfortingly, he sat down primly at the seat closest to the exit. If anything happened to them, he would be the first to leap into action.

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Posted: Wed, 26/01/2022 08:36 (3 Years ago)

9.5/10

I love the floral pink pink and light purple aesthetic! It really fits especially with your Idia avatar and I love the underlying themes of family with Beyleth, and Jeralt present. The quote also hits home The tragedy that is FE5H and is a very good quote overall. The only thing that prevents me from giving you a 10/10 would be the Wopper who seems slightly out of place on desktop. You probably just forgot to click enter and instead put the two images side by side :p On mobile it looks stunning but on desktop the balance is thrown off but it's a very very minor complaint

Overall very nice, just a bit off balance but it's easily fixable!

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Posted: Wed, 26/01/2022 06:41 (3 Years ago)

Alaparos looked grim, teeth sinking into his lip as he worried it. However, he didn't say anything, only sliding his backpack off his shoulders. From it, he procured rolled up blankets which he passed to each camper to warm themselves with. It wasn't much but at least it kept most of the chill away. When Alaparos became the unofficial leader, he didn't know. Glancing at Cat a little wearily, he turned to see the others also looking to him for instructions. All of them seemed to be thinking if it was the result of the Hearth but truthfully, he had none of the answers. He was just as lost as the rest of them, but at least he had priorities. "First things first, we get ourselves better clothes." He spoke, eyeing the t-shirts that they were all wearing. "Then we're going to pay Hades a little visit."

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Posted: Wed, 26/01/2022 02:30 (3 Years ago)

Rolling over to see who was talking with him, San was faced with the small girl who he had noticed earlier. To be fair, it was quite to turn around when he was sprawled across multiple people's laps, but he managed to do it and pouted up at her. While he wanted to talk, it would only be when they reached the field that a device with a text to speech function would be given to him so he would have to talk through other people. His hands made a thumbs up and from his shoulders he drew them across his chest, letting his palms open and pushing them back out before twisting his fore and thumb on both hands together twice over his chest. It was undoubtedly a childish manner of signing. "Everything hurts." The girl from earlier who had picked him up translated, giving San a weary look. It wasn't like they didn't trust Bree but usually people with healing powers were experimental at best. Usually they only caused more trouble than help and even if this person could heal, they didn't know to what extent. Besides, pain was just another sensation to them at this point. A throbbing head was more of an annoyance rather than anything in need of medical attention. Although a bit reluctant, San gently pressed his right thumb against his shoulder before flicking the open palm out and down. The same thumb the flicked out from under his chin before his right hand brushed over his left twice. "But I'm okay. It's nothing new." Each sign was careful and methodical, to the point where one would assume that he wasn't fluent in sign, but really he was doing his best so that his claws wouldn't rip through his clothes or puncture his skin on accident. It had happened before and each instance was as embarrassing as the last.

To Bree, who couldn't quite see, it was as if she was talking to a woman. But to anyone else on the helicopter, it was clear that San couldn't speak for himself. It sparked doubts in some about the other's ability to work with them but for others, especially those form the facility, it was just another part of their upbringing.

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Posted: Wed, 26/01/2022 02:22 (3 Years ago)

Raising a hand goodbye, Asahiko watched the weird girl go. What a nutcase, but the crazy people always intrigued him the most. After all, like minded people begot those like them. Soon enough, his mentor arrived, a quiet woman who didn't look all too remarkable. Her only defining trait if Asahiko had to name one would be her freakishly tall stature just like him. Camila, as she had introduced herself as, had been someone Asahiko had worked with one year but she had been reaped the next year. Their shared vague recollection of each other made it difficult to break the awkwardness but his district mate was having no such problems, chattering away with Camila almost frantically. It was clear that the other didn't want to die.

The door to their cabin hissed open and an sturdy looking man stepped through. Most notably, he was missing an arm, a detail that Hwa zeroed in on immediately. The man introduced himself as Chaff and immediately went towards a bottle of Henny that sat on the nearby table. His eyes held pity for the two of them but Hwa ignored it in favor of hiding herself in the couch and staying silent

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Posted: Wed, 26/01/2022 00:11 (3 Years ago)

Gently kneading his pounding head, San let out a little sniff. That hurt! His brain was still attempting to burst out of his skull with the raging headache anyone would get after getting cut open and played around with, but now that it had a rendezvous with the wall of the helicopter, it hurt even more! Of course, said wall also didn't come out undamaged, a faint dent pocking the metal where San had hit it. His ears flattened against his head as San's fingers danced across the sore spot at the back of his head, pouting all the while.

Soon enough one of the people in the helicopter, San recognized her from the compound as another experiment who had arrived a year after he had, come over and gently lift him up. "I know it hurts, Sannie. It's okay, don't cry." She cooed, more or less used to San's dramatics and scheming as she carried him over to the seats. Gathered on one side was a group of experiments from the compound, most of them reeking with nerves. It was most likely their first mission and San made a small sound of distress before draping himself over the laps of the most nervous recruits. A rattling purr that more shook his chest than made any sound as hesitant hands began to run over his ears and back, a soothing ritual that never failed to calm rattled nerves. All of them should have been kept back in the compound, either in their cells where at least they could sleep the day away, or playing with the other experiments. San had once tried to bargain that only experiments who had been perfected be sent out on the field but that had only resulted in them implanting paw pads on his feet, which in theory was super cute but in practice was hell.

As he slipped into a better headspace, San cracked an eye open and blinked slowly. His vision was much sharper than before and he winced slightly. So they really had messed around with his eyes but he wasn't mad about it. He could see better and in much more detail so he used it to his advantage to observe the other occupants of the helicopter. Some of the people who had been recruited because of their genetic powers looked distinctly uncomfortable about the sight of a person acting so much like a cat so San ignored them just like others were ignoring him. Some people, like a young boy who couldn't be any older than 20 with a swooping row of blond hair or a short woman who looked like she wanted to be anywhere but here, caught his eye. Those people seemed much too young or fragile to be sent to war and a small spark of anger was added to the fire at the thought of the higher ups being heartless enough to do such a thing. Still, he pushed that feeling down and focused on the grounding touches instead. Even if he was angry about it, what could he do?

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Posted: Tue, 25/01/2022 07:06 (3 Years ago)

Asahiko tipped his head, thinking. While the battle themed one was more appropriate for the situation that they were in, showing that the other meant business, the cutesy elegance of the other dress would essentially be one big middle finger to the capital. And if there was something that Asahiko liked more than anything, it was silently rebelling against authority. He pointed to the fancy one. "Will piss off the Capital." He explained, his grin sinister as he imagined how furious the capital citizens would be to see a doll dressed up to the nines. Undoubtedly, their stylists would put them in tacky outfits anyways so the elegance that Natalia exuded would only be magnified tenfold. The spotlight would be on Lilith and her doll

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 23:46 (3 Years ago)

Hwa flinched and shook her head vehemently. Black and blonde hair snapped against the soft skin of her cheeks, pinning Mike with wide eyes. "N-no please don't." She stammered, inching backwards. "I... Its okay. I don't mind dying..." Truthfully, the idea of anyone helping them sent terror running through her veins. She could still vividly imagine a head split open on the dirty ground, wandering hands, and red rimmed eyes. When people tried to help her, it always ended badly and they didn't want to risk anything else. Dying by her own hand was much better than having others help

Slowly blinking, Asahiko snorted. That was a first, someone thinking that his teeth was pretty. It was the furthest thing from but he would take the complement. "Thank you." He hummed nodding politely to the doll as if it was a real living breathing entity. "Asahiko. Male. Fifteen." The introduction was returned, if only out of politeness. This girl intrigued him and it would be interesting to see how she behaved during the arena. How someone so innocent looking yet so unnerving was utterly fascinating and he felt much more inclined to stick with this mystery girl much more than his district mate, if only to pick apart how she worked and her weaknesses

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 20:04 (3 Years ago)

Giving the gathered group a almost shy wave to the gathered campers, he was about to greet them when the appearance of Chiron. The games director smiled kindly at the assembled quest goers, an almost sad look crossing his face. "Is everyone here?" He asked, counting the members of the quest. "I hope that you are all prepared. Quests are rarely as easy and straightforward as you may think." It was a cryptic warning, but still the group would be foolish to not heed it.

And just like that, the quest had begun. Like a pack of unruly cats, the campers were herded towards the exit. The moment anyone stepped beyond the borders, however, a blast of freezing cold wind chilled them to the bone. So uncharacteristic was this sort of weather, that one would assume that they were in the middle of winter and not during the summer. Alaparos, who had never had that chance to experience any weather below zero, actually screamed at the frozen winds and froze in place, teeth chattering. No one had even remotely dressed for the weather.

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 19:05 (3 Years ago)

Footsteps indicated another party entering the helicopter and one of the many guards appeared. Over the guards shoulders was San, lying limp and unconscious from the recent experiments. They at least had the dignity to dress him in a soft lilac sweater that seemed much too big for his lean frame and skin tight leather pants. It covered up the swaths of bandages that wrapped around his body like a second skin, the oversized nature of the sweater helping cover up the mass scarring that littered his form. Dumping him none too gently onto one of the seats, the guard left as silently as they came leaving the helicopter drowning in silence. While back at the compound, it wasn't uncommon to see unconscious test subjects that were knocked out for hours after their experimentation, for some who had never set foot in those labs and had inherited their powers before being simply dragged away from their families, it was a bit of a harrowing sight.

Soon enough, though, one of the black ears sitting atop San's head twitched ever so slightly. It was kind of cute actually to watch the ears slowly twitch and move, the sensory organs relaying to San any dangers that may be present in his environment. The faint lashing of his tail was the only warning anyone got before San sprang up onto his feet defensively, leaping backwards and into safety. Or well, that was what was supposed to happen but because they were on a helicopter, he just whacked his head against the metal hull and crumpled onto the floor with a wheezing whine. However, what was most concerning was the brief glimpse everyone caught of San's eyes. Instead of the soft chocolate brown that they had been previously, it had been tainted as an almost bloody red, circular pupils that denoted his humanity replaced by feline slits. The systematic removal of his humanity wasn't anything new for those familiar with it but it was haunting nonetheless

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 18:38 (3 Years ago)

Nodding slowly, Asahiko could see that the doll was of exceptional quality. She was beautifully crafted, not any amateur's work but one that was made by a loving and skilled hand. The detailing on both the face, hair, and dress were immaculate and Asahiko could appreciate a good work of art which Natalia certainly was. When he heard that the hair was made out of real human hair, it sent a small shiver down his spine, but it certainly explained the life-like quality of the doll. "Very. Maker very skilled." He praised, flashing a smile. Jagged teeth, shaped from years of biting down on wires and metal, exposed themselves; unrefined and certainly deadly. It was yet another thing that put people off, if Asahiko's general demeanor didn't already.

"... Hwa" She muttered, the general body language of the child indicative that they didn't fully trust Mike just yet. But still, she snuck glances at him and seemed a little more comfortable than she did before. It was useless to rush any interactions but it meant that an awkward silence blanketed them. Hwa didn't quite mind, the silence was a familiar friend. It just meant that it gave them time to prepare for any trouble that would undoubtedly come

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 08:17 (3 Years ago)

Eyeing the doll wearily, Asahiko shook his head, holding up hands smudged with grime from earlier when he had went straight to the reaping after work. "She pretty. Don't want to dirty." He explained grimacing at how dirty his hands were. Almost self consciously, he rubbed his palms over his pants in an effort to clean them. It did very little and the boy shrugged half-heartedly. Everything was always dirty in the Districts outside of the Careers and while she didn't look like a career, the other girl did look like she placed a lot of importance on her doll. He wasn't going to risk her wrath by dirtying it.

Nodding slowly, it didn't seem like Hwa believed him. Still she took Mike's offered hand. It was kind of funny to see such small fingers wrap around a larger callused palm. It was clear by how soft they were that Hwa hadn't worked in the fields as she had mostly sowed and watered plants. Taking a shuddering breath, Hwa steeled themself. This was the perfect chance to try and ally herself with someone and learn the other's weakness. It would undoubtedly help them in the arena. "Um... whats your name... sir?" She asked tentatively. So caught up in her own head, they hadn't even heard the other's name when it had been called for the reaping. Not the best first impression but she supposed that if it made her look like a ditzy airhead with no survival sense, then it was for the better. If they underestimated them, then it was only to her advantage.

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 08:06 (3 Years ago)

S48A2N5, or more simply known as San, had a routine. He would wake up and untangle himself from the nest of interlaced fabrics that had twisted itself into a ball during the night, making sure to fold each blanket carefully. He would then tidy himself up, remembering to wash down his handful of medications with tap water, and work out until he was needed. If the scientists were feeling nice, then they would let him and the other experiments out into a small confined yard to stretch and play in but most of the time they just made do by themselves. Life wasn't awful in the compound. There was a roof over his head, warm blankets to snuggle in, people to talk to, and a sense of belonging. Everyone was here because they had a purpose. They were here because they were useful and they were wanted. Everyone played a part and San liked that. He was something to the higher ups if it meant that he still got to sleep in his cramped cage and eat tasteless gruel. There was meaning to his existence.

Today, San was halfway through his quad workout when he heard the familiar beep and click of a key card unlocking the door of his room. He only had a few seconds to scramble to the center of the room, back straight and hands held behind his back in perfect attention before the door opened soundlessly. In walked who San considered his least favorite person at the compound. Doctor Ensign as he liked to call him was a stoic man. He never let San run around or have fun, much less play with him or give him pets. Worst of all, he never gave San any of the nice floaty drugs that others would use, forcing him to feel the drag of a blade over his abdomen and the discomfort of drilling into bone. He also liked to use older tools, forgoing the more modern tech that got things done nice a quick.

"S48A2N5, you have an assignment." The doctor drawled, sounding like he wanted to be anywhere but here. San returned the sentiment. "You'll undergo some adjustments before being sent out on the field. You are to act as a spy in our war against Red." He spat the name out like it was poison before turning on his heel and stalking out, locking the door on his way out. Knowing what was going to happen next, San padded back towards his folded blankets and curled up amongst the warmth. He was intrigued. Usually, he was asked to storm into battle, guns blazing and break some bones. To be asked to spy was a new development and he wondered if the higher ups were beginning to realize that he wouldn't run away the moment he wasn't under their supervision. Regardless, it would be something that he hadn't done before and he couldn't help but feel a twinge of worry. He didn't want to mess up. Messing up would mean that he was useless and useless things were always sent away. Closing his eyes, his ears twitched at the tell tale hiss of Gas being released into the room and he let himself go. There was no use in fighting, after all.

When he next woke up, it was to nothing but darkness. Blinking once, twice, and finally a third time, San moved his head to the side. He made a questioning noise at the back of his throat, almost a whine of confusion, but all the came out was a rasp of wind dragging against shredded vocal chords, making San wince. Still it did its job and he heard the click to shoes stop by his head. "Hello SAN-5," Came a kind voice that he immediately recognized. San liked this nurse because he at least used his abbreviated code. Hearing S48A2N5 all day got a bit annoying and his abbreviation reminded him of the other SAN designations. "How are you feeling?" The question made San's brow furrow slightly before a clawed nail tapped against the cold steel table. "It can't see." The nurse called, deciphering the Morse quickly and his message was met with frantic shuffling. Sounds of a scan being taken make his tail flick in response but soon that soon faded and the nurse's voice returned. "We were seeing if we could improve your vision. Your eyes are still adjusting so you'll be blind for an hour at most. Other modifications include changing the fluid in your ears to hopefully improve hearing and adjusting your joints to allow for more flexibility. Your back had to be broken and realigned as your transformations have been contorting it. You've been given medication to bring with you onto the field. Inject yourself with the hyponeedle every day for a week and don't forget to take your medication. New prescriptions have been added." The clinical steady reading of what had happened to him while he was unconscious was almost a relief. At least they hadn't tried to replace his stomach this time. Last time that happened, he had thrown up blood and they had to find another stomach since the other one apparently didn't agree with his immune system. At least with a smaller stomach, he didn't need to eat as much and it fit his feline form much better.

Nodding tiredly along with the nurse as he continued with his report, San felt his eyes drooping. Probably a side effect from all the tinkering the team had done to him. Next time he opened his eyes, San knew that he would be en-route to his latest assignment.

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 04:08 (3 Years ago)

Upon hearing the news, Jules blanched and felt his stomach roll uncomfortably. Someone had died. Someone had died and he hadn't done anything to try and prevent it. Logically, he knew that this was an absurd train of thought. He couldn't stop everything bad that would happen but it still felt like a monumental failure to let a student die. A few other Head Students agreed with his sentiments and left to talk with the Headmistress.

Meanwhile, Jules hovered over the body, unsure. There were spells and charms that could be cast to track down magic signatures and his theory was that a spell had killed the sweet student, not fire. But casting a spell over a dead body felt sacrilegious and it felt cold to use her corpse as a stepping stone for their investigation. She had been a person, a vibrant and kind soul who had wandered these halls just a few hours ago. Gritting his teeth, Jules pressed the heel of his palms against his eyes as a kaleidoscope of colours burst behind his eyelids. Soft swearing tumbled from his mouth as he turned away from the body. This was exactly why he wanted to disappear from the magical world, wanting nothing to do with the petty politics and world ending events that threatened to topple over their society. Removing his hands, Jules blinked away the swirling fireworks and stumbled towards Professor Flitwick. He just wanted to break down safely and he knew that the Professor who he viewed as a father figure was the safest place. Everything was just too much

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 02:55 (3 Years ago)

Jumping from where she was seated, Hwa nervously glanced at who had spoken. When she saw that it was simply her district mate, she relaxed slightly before putting her guard up again. Why he was seeking her out, she didn't know but it couldn't be anything good. A part of her hoped that it was to propose and alliance but even that seemed unlikely. In the arena, it was every person for themself and they doubted that it would change anytime soon. "I'm... okay. Are you?" Was the hesitant venture, feeling like it was only good manners to return the sentiment. Even if they were going to be enemies in the arena, if Hwa showed some kindness, perhaps he would be more inclined to show some mercy

Brown eyes flickered down to follow the motion of rolled sleeves and Hwa paled slightly. Was this... a threat? Was Mike subtly telling her that it was useless to fight since he had survived worse or had battle experience? It could just be scars from herding cattle as was a common occupation in their district, Hwa tried to reason desperately, fighting against the nausea and fear battling for control in their mind. Biting her lip, Hwa gave a shaky smile and hoped that she looked much less scared than she felt.

He didn't quite expect someone to talk to him but he inclined his head in a brief greeting. The girl looked unreasonably pleased to be here and he took note of it. She would be someone he would have to look out for but for now pleasantries wouldn't hurt. "Well enough." He replied shortly, turning back to look out the window. Hesitating for a moment, he continued by gesturing towards the doll. "Creepy. Cute though."

Truly, a man of many words this one

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Posted: Mon, 24/01/2022 01:04 (3 Years ago)

The train cabin that he was in was quiet. It didn't bother Asahiko at the slightest, enjoying the peace. His lanky limbs were pulled up to his chest as he gazed at the cabin, unseeing. His mind was in another place and frankly that was all that he needed. No one to bother him and no one to poke and prod at his eccentric oddities. That peace was soon shattered as a girl skipped into the cabin holding what had to be the creepiest doll Asahiko had seen in a while. It was frighteningly realistic, a stark contrast to the girl's innocent airs. But all that he did was raise an eyebrow before twisting around to stare out the window at the rapidly passing scenery. What others did was none of his business.

Sequestered away in one of the cabins was a small girl, curled up with her knees hiding her tear stained cheeks. Soft little gasps puffed out as the singular image flashed before her eyes on loop, Seyoung lying face down in a pool of blood, drowning in the very thing that gave him life. She hadn't even gotten the chance to say goodbye to him or even check if he had been okay. It haunted her but a part of her berated the poor child for being so fragile. Just because Seyoung wasn't here anymore didn't mean that she could break down and crumble before people who would surely latch onto such a weakness with unforgiving viciousness. Everyone here was out to kill her and she didn't need to give anyone more of a reason to target her.

Snuffling, Hwa wiped her eyes, tears smudging the thing layer of grime that was always present on the citizens of District 11. She would be fine, it would just be like how she survived eight years ago before meeting Seyoung. She had the experience, she just needed time to get back into the right headspace.

As her first course of action, Hwa gently crawled out from the corner she had pressed herself into, taking a seat on one of the opulent seats that lined the cabin before she got to planning. She didn't know her District mate that well and that would be a problem. Statistically, it would be easier to stick with someone that could help you survive and if she had familiarized herself with those from her district better, it would have given her an advantage. As it stood, she would have to choose who to stick with during training, when people showed off their skills. Of course, she could always strike out on her own. She knew her plants and could survive with minimal food but she wasn't a fighter. If anything, she was likely to die during the bloodbath. The idea of going so soon was appealing in some aspects. She wouldn't have to suffer through a long and arduous game, but it also felt like giving up. Nothing infuriated Hwa quite like giving the capital what it wanted so she would have to be smart about it. Suicide, then, became the next idea to pop into her head. Nightshade berries, if she could find any, would be a painless and uneventful death. It was sure to piss off the capital and that thought sent vicious glee down her spine

A part of her chided her for thinking about her own death as if it was an inevitability but Hwa firmly pushed it aside. She knew that she was going to die anyways and while it was unfair to Seyoung who would undoubtedly pray for her safe return, she would make the best out of her death

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Posted: Sun, 23/01/2022 06:48 (3 Years ago)

You could hear a pin drop before a furious yell burst out from the crowd. "What are you doing?! They're twelve! A child! Are you seriously going to let a child die just to save yourself?!" Squeaking in surprise, Hwa whirled around to find Seyoung writhing against two Peacekeepers, eyes blazing with desperation as he howled and hollered. "We are all victims here yet you choose a child to be your scapegoat?! How low can you seriously go? You all shou-urk" With a firm slam of the back of a gun to the head, Seyoung fell silent and crashed onto the dirty floor, unmoving, a small pool of red leaking out from under Seyoung's head that dyed his brown locks a rusted black. Rationally, Hwa knew that Seyoung wasn't dead, just unconscious but that didn't stop the fear from lancing through her body. She oh so desperately wanted to leap off the stage and run to her brother's side but a sharp look from the Peacekeepers on stage kept her firmly rooted in place, watching as Seyoung's prone form was dragged away through the dusty roads and out of sight

In her head, Hwa kept repeating that Seyoung wasn't dead. He was alive, she had seen the barely visible rise and fall of his chest, she knew that it would take a harder blow than that to crack open a skull, she knew that there wasn't enough blood shed to be life threatening. He knew it yet it didn't stop the hysteria that sprinted around in his fear addled brain, fueling the panic. Seyoung was going to die and it was all her fault.

As if the whole debacle didn't happen, the Capital woman tittered into the mic. "Now that was certainly exciting!" She chirped, her out of place accent driving home how twisted everything was. "But we mustn't delay the fun for much longer! From the boys, your tribute is-"

"Asahiko Akaho"

The name was repeated again as no one came forth. It was only after the third time, the announcers voice taking on a worried and slightly annoyed edge, did Asahiko finally step forward. It was fun, watching others squirm when they realized who exactly held such a sunny name, his appearance in no way matching it. Sauntering up to stage, he shook the female tributes hand and grinned, letting serrated teeth do all the talking he needed to. The small squeak of terror she let out was so hilarious that he wheezed out a rattling laugh before striding away to wait by the train. No one would visit him anyways.

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Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 22:50 (3 Years ago)

Living in District 5 had never been interesting. It was always the same thing. Get up, go to work, eat, sleep. Rise repeat. There was nothing worth the trouble here in the boonies where the most exciting thing that could happen is a malfunction in the dams. Once upon a time, Asahiko had liked work. Had liked submerging himself in the raging waves and diving under to replace broken tiles and connect fraying wires. He had liked the feeling of isolation that his job gave him but as the years passed so did the rose-tinted lens. When he had been "promoted" (code for reassigned because no one could keep a job in the hell hole they lived it), Asahiko found that working was just the capital's way of pushing their problems onto them and ignoring it in favour of partying in their utopia

The games were much the same. They were used to control the population, both in terms of obedience and numbers. Why would anyone rebel when there wasn't any able bodied person to rebel with? Sliding on his nice pair of work pants, Asahiko sighed and half-heartedly adjusted his ragged hair. Reaping days always brought out the melancholy that thrived in the Districts, filling the streets with dread and inevitable death. Asahiko had long since grown numb to the fear, his hunched form buckling under the sadness and the celebrations. Normalcy, after all, was an illusion to mask just how horrid everything was. There was absolutely nothing that could distract from the fact that each year the capital made a festival of a tragedy.

It was with these dour thoughts that Asahiko dragged himself to the reaping, not quite listening to the names being called. He never cared for these things anyway.

It was after they had been tagged that Seyoung finally let go of Hwa's hand, one hand coming to smooth out any stray hairs. "Stay safe, Starlight." He uttered, running a hand through the coarsely dyed hair. It came as a surprise for Seyoung to use their old nicknames for each other, back when names had been to dangerous to give but trust still had to be built. Now it was rarely used, an affectionate reminder of their beginnings and a hope for the future

Hwa only beamed and nodded with a tinkering giggle. "You worry to much. I'll be fine Sparkles." She cooed, leaning into the touch briefly before stepping back. "Okay, now tell me where to go. I have no idea what I'm doing." At the admission, Seyoung threw his head back and burst out laughing, drawing incredulous stares at the sound of joy during an event meant to lead a lamb to their slaughter. But even as glares were passed over their heads, Hwa couldn't help but smile. Things would be alright, even if it did take a while for the two of them to school their faces back into neutrality.

"Over there, with the girls. You're up front because you're a baby." Seyoung teased, pointing to where she would have to go. Hwa stuck her tongue out, unable to come up with any witty replies, as she walked backwards towards where she was supposed to go. Hwa couldn't really understand why people were separated into boys and girls because Hwa didn't really fit in either, the labels of either gender not quite fitting with what Hwa wanted. It was fine though, Hwa could play the part of a girl well enough so she wiggled her way to the front, beside the other clammy faced girls. To those beside her, Hwa gave bright smiles and comforting squeezes to their hands before someone with ostentatious clothing stepped up on stage. Her wild wig and colourful clothes were jarring among the drab background, marking her as an outsider among the crowd. Despite this, she carried herself with poise and grace, clearing her throat delicately. And just like that, Hwa's first reaping began

Just as Seyoung had warned, it was a monotonous affair. The lady droned on and one about the capital, about the glories of the games, and most importantly reminding the masses that they were inferior in every single way. It was a little infuriating, Hwa had to admit. It seemed like forever when the speech finally ended along with the gruesome video which showed someone bashing a tribute's head in with a brick. It had made Hwa's stomach roll in disgust and she could hear a few of the girls down the roll emptying their stomachs. Many children in their district didn't like to watch the Games, opting instead to work on the fields for experience while the adults were glued to their chairs, watching the morbid display of capital might. For many, it would be one of the first times watching someone be brutally murdered. The Capital woman gently coughed into her fist, high heels clacking across the floor as she shuffled back up towards the microphone.

"Now wasn't that just wonderful? Oh it brings tears to my eyes every time I watch it." She fake sobbed, even going as far as to dab at her dry eyes. "With that over though, we come to the good part. As always, Ladies first." The lady once again did her little shuffle, hands wiggling above the clear bowl stuffed with blank slips of paper. Hwa held her breath as those perfectly manicured nails dipped into the sea of white, sifting around the waters until acrylic claws grabbed onto one specific slip. Hwa didn't know why her heartbeat was pounding in her ears, deafening everything. She figured it was the nerves of her very first reaping and that it would pass soon. It wasn't a big deal and she took deep breaths to calm herself. Slowly but surely, the ringing faded and her racing heart slowed into a steady thrum. Putting a hand over her chest, she breathed out and directed her gaze back onto the stage only to see the capital woman staring right at her.

"Hwa, dearie. Come on up. You've been picked."

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Comfygazing
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Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 20:12 (3 Years ago)

"Hwa-ah, it's time to wake up."

Those were the words that greeted Hwa every morning and today was no exception. Putting up the obligatory whining and play slaps, the small girl cracked an eye open and gave her older brother a gummy smile. "Good Morning!" She mumbles before dragging herself from the pile of fabric that they used to line the floors and sleep on. She and her brother Seyoung were the only two members of their family with Seyoung only being three years older than her. Technically, they weren't even related, having gravitated together out of need and common interest. He had needed someone to care for and she needed someone to pull her back when her altruism got too much. It was a delicate balance but they made it work. Stumbling after his brother, she grabbed onto the back of his shirt and the pair shuffled to the other side of the room. There, laid out on the ratty cloth they used as a table, was food. Real, unspoiled food that had no signs of mold or decomposition on it. Hwa's eyes glimmered and she threw herself at her brother, squealing. It had been a long time since they have had actual food, the gruel created from their Tessera being entirely unfulfilling in terms of taste. "Where did you get this? Did you steal it?! You didn't need to do that, we have more than enough to eat!" She laughed, torn between being angry over her brother's foolish decision and elation at finally eating something that didn't taste like dirt.

Seyoung only grinned and put a finger to his lips, herding Hwa to the mat. "Only the best for my sibling's first reaping day!" He sang, pushing on her shoulders to make her sit down. "And I'm offended. Me? Steal food? Perish the thought! I'll have you know that I got this haul fair and square! I thought we were siblings, do you not love me enough to remember who I am, Hwa-ah?" With her brother's dramatics ringing in her ears and a pout firmly set on her face, Hwa shoveled food into her mouth and nearly cried with how good it tasted. The porridge was smooth and silky while the fruits that interspersed it was both sweet and tangy, giving the simple bowl a wild menagerie of flavour. Sure her brother was laughing at her now, but Hwa would wait until he had eaten to to goad over his own tears. Sure enough, the water works started the moment Seyoung had a single bite and Hwa had to put down her bowl, her howling laughter threatening to spill the porridge onto the floor

Once the traditional sibling ribbing over food had been done and the makeshift table had been cleared, it was time to dress. In stark contrast to earlier, this was a somber affair as there was only one occasion in which the two would wear such clothes. With gentle hands, Seyoung brushed Hwa's hair back as she slid a skirt up, remnants of an old dress that she had once worn when she was younger. Her shirt on the other hand was much to big for her small frame and had to be tucked into the waistband of the modified skirt. Her brother had assured her that she would grow into the outfit and Hwa had no reason to not believe him. As she waited for her brother to finish dressing, Hwa scurried around the house, oversized sleeves flapping in the breeze as she tided up the small hovel they called home. It wasn't anything grand, but it was theirs. And that was enough for the both of them

Hand in hand, she and Seyoung wandered down the busy streets of District 11. To those they knew, they greeted, keeping a cheerful smile despite the somber day. Some they stopped to talk with, making niceties until they were inevitably pulled towards the town square where the day before, a grandiose stage had been set up. It was one of the most elaborate things that Hwa had ever seen and she spent a few seconds gawking before Seyoung tugged her forward. It was only when the siblings lined up to be let into the reaping did the nerves finally make themselves known. See, Hwa had taken Tessera as soon as she could, distributing her extra tiles to families that weren't eligible for the deadly kindness the capital had given. Already there were more slips in that dreaded bowl with her name on it than any other 12 year old and that scared her. She knew the consequences of taking Tessera but now with them staring her down, she could feel a tiny bead of regret grow. Immediately guilt washed over her. Why should she be regretful when she had done the right thing? There was nothing to regret and this was just the accumulation of all her actions and she would face it with dignity. It was the least she could do

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