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We're only Human (Hunger Games RP)
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Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 17:10 (2 Years ago)
𝕰𝖛𝖊𝖗𝖞 𝖞𝖊𝖆𝖗, 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖈𝖆𝖕𝖎𝖙𝖔𝖑 𝖙𝖆𝖐𝖊𝖘 𝖆 𝖒𝖆𝖑𝖊 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝖆 𝖋𝖊𝖒𝖆𝖑𝖊 𝖙𝖗𝖎𝖇𝖚𝖙𝖊 𝖋𝖗𝖔𝖒 𝖊𝖆𝖈𝖍 𝖉𝖎𝖘𝖙𝖗𝖎𝖈𝖙 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝖋𝖔𝖗𝖈𝖊𝖘 𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖒 𝖙𝖔 𝖋𝖎𝖌𝖍𝖙 𝖙𝖔 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖉𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖍. 𝕰𝖛𝖊𝖗𝖞 𝖞𝖊𝖆𝖗 23 𝖈𝖍𝖎𝖑𝖉𝖗𝖊𝖓 𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊 𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖎𝖗 𝖑𝖎𝖛𝖊𝖘. 𝕸𝖔𝖘𝖙 𝖔𝖋 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖞𝖊𝖆𝖗, 𝖞𝖔𝖚'𝖗𝖊 𝖘𝖆𝖋𝖊. 𝕭𝖚𝖙 𝖓𝖔𝖙 𝖙𝖔𝖉𝖆𝖞, 𝖇𝖊𝖈𝖆𝖚𝖘𝖊 𝖙𝖔𝖉𝖆𝖞 𝖎𝖘 𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖕𝖎𝖓𝖌 𝖉𝖆𝖞. 𝖂𝖊𝖑𝖈𝖔𝖒𝖊 𝖙𝖔 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖊𝖓𝖉 𝖔𝖋 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖑𝖎𝖋𝖊.
Tributes and Districts:
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District 1: Full
Members of District 1 were known to produce luxury items such as jewelry. Due to their skill in craftsmanship, the goods that came out of District 1 were used to decorate the Capitol. Those who lived in District 1 were some of the wealthiest citizens of Panem. Tributes from District 1 were known as "Careers" because they trained for years before competing in the Hunger Games.
1. Alora (female)
2. Jason(male)
District 2: Full
Located in the Rocky Mountains, District 2 was one of the largest communities in Panem. It was also home to wealthy citizens, resulting in a positive relationship with the Capitol. District 2 was known for its masonry and weapon manufacturing. Tributes are also known as careers.
1. Reserved!
2. Feliz (male)
District 3:
The main industry in District 3 was technology as the people there produced televisions, computers, and other electronics
1. Faith (female)
2.
District 4:
District 4 specialized in the fishing industry. The citizens in District 4 were known to be wealthy and very good-looking. Their tributes were also Careers, training from a very early age to prepare for the Games
1. Agira (female)
2. Kendo (male)
District 5:
District 5 was responsible for power and electricity. The area produced the electricity that powered all of Panem. They housed a hydroelectric dam which many of the citizens worked in
1.
2. Asahiko Akaho (male)
District 6:
The core industry within District 6 was transportation. It served as the hub for the transport network throughout all of Panem
1. Grimm (female)
2.
District 7:
District 7 supplied Panem with copious supplies of lumber. The area was said to be surrounded mostly by trees
1. Minya (female)
2. Riggs (male)
District 8:
District 8 was known for their work in the textiles industry. One of their factories was dedicated to producing the uniforms used by the Peacekeepers
1.Lilith (female)
2.
District 9:
The main industry at the focus of District 9 was grain production. The area was the least referenced district in all of Panem. Not much is known about the victors or tributes from District 9
1. Majoree (female)
2.
District 10:
District 10 focused on the livestock industry. Their main job was to raise animals and supply the meat to the Capitol
1. Aether (Female)
2.
District 11: Full
District 11 was said to be composed of a very large area, possibly the entire Southern region of Panem. Agriculture was the main industry of District 11 as the land was covered in orchards, crop fields, and cattle farms. District 11 was one of the poorest districts and its citizens lived in small shacks in an area patrolled by Peacekeepers
1. Hwa (Female) (nonbinary)
2. Mike (male)
District 12:
District 12 was the smallest and poorest district in Panem. The district was located in Appalachia and their main industry was coal mining
1. Adrienne (Female)
2.
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The day begins as always. In the career districts, today is a day of celebration. In the lower districts, today is a day of suffering and repentance. You woke up feeling tired, and then remembered what the date was. Reaping day has come again. Something feels different this time...
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 17:20 (2 Years ago)
"Up!" Auntie roared on the Reaping Day morning, pounding on her door, "Up, now you scum of the earth!" Agria was used to this, and wasted no time scrambling out of bed to open the door. Auntie shoved a sea-blue dress that looked as if it had seen better days at her. "This was the last one I had. Now get dressed and hurry up, breakfast is on the table." Agria nodded, which in turn earned her a slight slap on the cheek. "Why won't you talk! Nevermind, just..get dressed."
Later, Agria, along with the other children in Auntie's..care, had eated breakfast, and were now on their way to the reaping of district four. Agria held the hands of the younger children, who trembled with fear. Agria couldn't comfort them with words, so she slowly ran her thumb across the backs of their hands that were clasped with hers, and somehow, it seemed to do something.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 17:31 (2 Years ago)
Minya's eyes, which once glowed with happiness, now grew dull with stress and worry. She curled up in a ball, her shoulders shaking. She felt sick. Minya sighed heavily, her eyes now watering with useless tears. She was scared, terrified even, of what was to come.
The Reaping.
The day everyone feared, the day she hated most. Every single time, she would fear of being Reaped in the drawing, thinking about how she'd have to leave her siblings behind. How would they cope without her?
More tears fell down her olive skin, reflecting the orange and yellow colours of the rising sun. The sound of footsteps roused Minya from her crying. A familiar pair of eyes stared down from above. They too, looked stressed, and upset.
"I've already told you, there's no point in stressing."
Said a rough voice. The figure crouched down next to her.
"Minya, c'mon. This happens every year."
Minya was silent. Her teardrops stained the wooden floor she was laying on. Her hair spilled out on the floor, a foamy mass of chocolate curls.
She opened her pale lips to speak.
"I know but-"
She sighed.
"I'm just scared.
Of me being reaped.
Or you, even."
The figure frowned.
"The chances of that are very low Minya. Don't worry, nothing is going to happen to our family. Even if it did, we'll manage. We would win the Hunger Games. We're strong, our family."
Minya winced at the phrase, Hunger games.
"The odds of any of us being reaped are low Minya."
The voice reassured.
The odds are low.
But never zero.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 17:46 (2 Years ago)
After getting back to the house, Alora went inside and cleaned up. Living in District one was a privilege, and Alora treated it as such. She put on a simple white dress with a golden belt, meant to emphasize her glowing skin and sun-beam eyes. Her family was dressed to match. "Alora dear, are you planning to volunteer today?" Alora dipped her head in respect. "Yes Babushka." Alora's grandmother was an ancient woman, a previous victor herself. The Lux family had many victors in its heritage. Alora hopped to be the next one. "Don't volunteer, I won't have anyone to play with." Alora felt a tug at her dress. Her younger sister stood at her hip, with a sad look on her face. "Oh Alya. You'll have Apollo." Alora felt a little bad for Alya, who was the younger of the twins. Apollo hopped into the room to see Alya sniffling. "Apollo, you must take care and protect your sister while I'm gone, you understand?" Apollo gave Alora a nod before grabbing Alya's hand and carefully taking her to their room.
"They will be fine while you are gone, little luchik." Alora turned back to her grandmother. "I know... but I'll miss them." Babushka chuckled. "Then you have something to fight for." Alora smiled. "Indeed." Alora dipped her head to her grandmother once more before exiting the living room. "Oh my little girl. So grown up." Alora's mother embraced her, sniffling a little bit. "Hi mama." Alora gave her mother a long hug before pulling up. "You look beautiful. A true ray of light, a true Lux." Alora teared up a bit at this. "Awww, mama." she wiped her tears before her mother pulled her in for another hug. "Your father and older brother are waiting for you outside. They can't attend the reaping today, as they have to work, but I told them I'd send you out to say goodbye."
Alora headed outside, wiping her tears with her dress sleeve. She fall back a bit when tackled by a bear hug. "I'm so proud of you Alora." Alora hugged her brother. "Thanks Oran." she whispered. Oran was the only one allowed to know she was scared, the only one aloud to feel her shaky arms and hear her terrified whispers. "It's going to be okay Lor. You'll make it back to us. I know you will." Alora dug her head into Oran's shoulder. "I know. I just have to kill 23 people to do it." Oran chuckled. "Or you have to outlast them all..." he pulled her away and gave her a smile, as if he had just suggested she put a flower in her hair. "Out of the way." Alora laughed as her father jokingly shoved past Oran to hug her. "So grown up. I remember when I had to carry you on my shoulders so you could see the reaping." Alora rapidly blinked. "Thanks papa." she whispered when he set her down. "It's time for us to go, but we'll see you in a little while." Alora nodded. "Bye Oran, bye papa!" she shouted, as they headed down the street and out of her view.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 18:15 (2 Years ago)
"Morning, Jacy!" His mother greeted him. "I suppose you know what day it is today? And why are you still in your night dress?"
"I was hungry mumma" Jason mumbled, still sleepy, making his way to the table, where his breakfast awaited him.
"Very well, but you know you have to be at your best today, don't you?"
"Yes mum, I know!" he grumbled. He hated reaping day. He was made to wear a blazer and all formals, while they had to sit waiting under the sun at the city square. And some cranky person from the Capitol would call out two names of people who were about to die. Slowly. Painfully. With 24 tributes and only 1 winning, not a lot of the people going out to the Capitol returned. Much like Emily, Jason used to think it to just be fiction, a few years ago, too, despite being trained all those years by his tutors for it. He used to think it was just all propaganda. Until his friend was chosen. His best friend at school, Max. Jason was very confused when Max did not come back home after the "show" was all over. And he cried a lot when he got to know why.
He matured a lot since then, learning anything about the Hunger Games that he could, though most people, including his parents, just glorified it. His grandfather had supposedly been a victor when he had been alive. He was a nice man, which was probably what made Jason believe the Hunger Games couldn't possibly be true. How could his dada have killed anyone? But indeed, if he had to survive in the arena, he would've had to kill.
As he was finishing up the first meal of his day, his father joined him at the table, grumpy as ever. "Jason, why are you not dressed for the reaping?"
"That's exactly what mum asked, I will be ready by when I have to." Jason did not like his father. He pressed him too much. He did not turn 6 when he was handed his first blade, a sword to him then, but nothing but a pocket knife now.
To avoid further conversation, he left his breakfast unfinished and went back into his room, looking into the assortment of his formal clothes on what to wear. When he did not come out for about half an hour, his mother came to check on him, just to find out that he was still deciding which wristwatch to wear. She comes in and plops down onto the bed. "If you sit in here forever, you'll miss the reaping!"
"That would be for the best, I guess." Jason mumbled, but did hurry up, finally choosing the stark white watch he owned, to complement his white tux. As he was done dressing up, his mother complimented, "Oh what a gentleman you are. It sure would be a shame, if you did not come back from the arena." And though Jason thought that was to suggest that she had high expectations from it, her voice had just a tinge of sadness. While she would love to see him participate and win in the Hunger Games, she knew he was too much of a flower to actually win it, if he was, in fact, chosen. So he grumbled again, "Yes mumma, I know", as he looked at himself in the mirror. Just then, Emily walks into his room again, saying, "Oh you are yet to be ready? What a loser. Dad wants you to come down right now!" To that, their mum gave her a sharp glare, which made her cower back out of the room. "Come now, we should not let your dad keep waiting." His mum said to him, with an abrupt, sad smile.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 18:35 (2 Years ago)
Majoree Sinclair (Location: House 56 of DISTRICT 9)
The land of District 9 was as flat as its bread and twice as dry. A bird might fly over it perchance- and in doing so would see rows and rows of hills, rolling in rich shades of yellow and green.
Until you came to the people.
Pallid, thin, walking corpses. Stumbling along, rotting zombies who's only hunger was for the work of the day to be over.
High up on a hill, two thin pale legs dangled. A corpse? The bird might dip lower in the air, and in doing so, would see the small body of Majoree Sinclair. Bony limbs, jutting ribs- she was the picture of want. And yet, the silkiness of her hair spoke of a humanity unlike the poor undead below.
The bird would start- catching at the sight of her eyes- pale, pale light blue, the picture of beauty placed within a scrawny child. Her thin lips moved, and at last, noise pierced the air of this silent landscape.
"Reaping day," Majoree said aloud. "A time where they can splatter our blood in name of sport. And pretend they're more human than we are." She continued gazing down at the bumbling zombies, her fists clenching by her sides. It was... disgusting. How the people down there, such noble people were reduced to nothing more than corpses. Because of a monster's addiction to control.
A twig cracked behind her. Majoree yelped, and her tooth accidentally pierced her tongue. Hissing, she angled her head back, catching sight of Chia.
"Our tutor would be far happier if you put those words to use in your assignments." Blue eyes several shades darker than Majoree's own met hers. There was a depth to them that Majoree couldn't place. Solemnity.
She looked away, back down at the people below. "I'd rather not write an essay on the Capitol-approved books she forces us to read." The rest of the words remained unspoken. But Chia understood them well enough. When you knew someone well enough, silence could spell all the words in the world.
Chia sat next to her. "They'll expect us in an hour or so."
"I don't want to go yet." Weak. Majoree bit her cheek, half regretting letting the words slip. But Chia merely nodded in sympathy and the worry ebbed away.
The two sisters continued to gaze out over the landscape for a long time.
...
...
At last Chia spoke.
"Do you see that bird?"
"Hm?" Majoree angled her head to where Chia was staring. "Oh- the white one? It's been following me for a while. I guess it wants a handout. Some Capitol persons been feeding it too much. As if the people in the Districts wouldn't like those scraps." Her hand twitched, as if she were considering strangling the bird and giving it to said people.
"I don't know. It feels more comforting." Chia tipped her head back, letting her head of black hair cascade down her back. "Like a Guardian Angel."
Majoree scoffed. "If a Guardian Angel existed out there, it wouldn't be for me."
The two fell into silence again.
They both expected to see two of the bumbling zombie children down there in the Square soon.
For the first time, Majoree's cynicism failed her.
The name drawn from the pot would belong to one of the two sisters sitting on the crest of the golden hill.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 18:50 (2 Years ago)
Adrienne fumbled with the rope around her wrist. She stopped when she realized there was no rope there. The was no rope anywhere! She wasn't wake. Or was she? Adrienne's head spun. She door was open. But there wasn't a door there. "Careful Adri." she murmured, rubbing her temples until the visions stopped. She was sitting on the edge of her bed that didn't exist. Adrienne slowly stood up, aware of the nonexistent ceiling forcing her to duck. Even though the water didn't exist it still washed the dirty from Adrienne's arms. Did that mean it did exist? Adrienne forced herself to admit that she didn't know.
A simple black dress was all she had. So a black dress was what she wore. Adrienne forced her eyes to ignore the mistakes. To ignore the things that didn't exist. Maybe then they would ignore her too. But Adri knew better then that. Maybe she could use them to her advantage if she got reaped. She knew she would. The little slip of paper with her name on it screamed. But the sound wasn't real. Adrienne sighed. Maybe she wasn't real.
Agent Fallows, signing out~
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 19:45 (2 Years ago)
Riggs Oakfrost (Location: Town Square of District 7)
The town square was as silent and still as a stone. Outside, people murmured uneasily- bumbled about like the filthy livestock they were. A bunch of pigs. Were too dirty for even the butcher to take a knife to. At most they could be used as a fishing lure, though their weakness might infect those who ate even the smallest minnow.
In the center of the square, Riggs Oakfrost and Primrose Allow were rigging the voting of the 74th Hunger Games.
"Give me the slips," Riggs ordered. Primose obliged, tucking a strand of her brown hair behind her ear on the way. District 7, thoroughbred, she was- she resembled each and every one of the people outside. In a way, Riggs did too- if not for the sharp, cunning blue of his eyes. Always plotting. Always finding out a way to earn the glory he deserved.
The corners of his mouth twitched up slightly. The box couldn't have its top removed without the special Capitol tools. No one was worried about the Tributes removing any slips- even if they dared, they wouldn't be able to grab even a single one at the top. And who'd risk not having their name in there?
Riggs wasn't removing names. He was adding them.
"Didn't think I'd ever see you up before nine," Primrose commented. "You're pretty passionate about this, eh?"
He gave her a dark look and she just grinned back. Shame how the only person in this pigsty with a little guts was someone he couldn't stand. Angrily, he shoved more slips inside, putting emphasis on how he put in his own pile instead of hers.
She just laughed. He hated that about her. Hated it more than how the stupid puppy followed him around, keening in his ears.
Heart pounding in his ears, Riggs slammed the box down with a thud and leapt to his feet, hand going to the small axe clutched on his belt. Primrose took a step back.
The two just stared at each other. Primrose laughed. Riggs gave a wane smile and let his hand drop.
"They wouldn't care if you died, you know," Riggs said quietly.
"I wouldn't either," Primrose replied. Ever the quick one. Another reason for Riggs to hate her.
He ground his teeth together, but decided it wasn't worth the effort. Instead he showed her a smile with all his teeth. "Such wit. The Capitol'll love you."
"As if they won't be too distracted with you, pretty boy. Staining the ground with blood- such a legacy isn't soon to be forgotten."
A rush of blood went through Riggs' head. Yes. That was his dream. Blood, guts... red spray of District pigs cast over the ground, never to be eaten by anything but scavengers and worms. The victory that'd come- how he'd always be remembered as someone different someone apart from the weaklings of the District he was forced into.
But he knew the manipulation was intentional. So he averted his eyes and returned to stuffing the box full of his own slips. One in. Two in. Three in. Four in. More likely than not, one of his would be drawn. The perfect beginning to a legend.
"We need time to get mine in too," Primrose prompted. He didn't look up at her. "They'll be opening the square soon. If we don't get mine in, I won't be drawn. And we really don't need me volunteering."
Riggs shot a sneer at her.
"Take it yourself and get your own slips in."
There was no reply, as expected. Riggs continued shoveling the forms with his elegant, curled name in. How he'd write it after he won. Pleasure unraveled from the curl in his stomach.
A rattling of metal.
Both of the teenagers' heads shot up.
Riggs shoved the oak box away, panic sparking in his chest. He leapt to his feet and in an instance, Primrose's arm was looped through his. The fence surrounding the square was electric- As they always did, Primrose helped Riggs up first.
The fence rattled again.
They didn't have time.
Riggs caught onto the branch and swung himself up. Primrose offered her hand.
He looked at it-
Then dropped down onto the other side of the fence.
They stared at each other through it for a long second. Then the girl's face twisted in rage.
"RIGGS, I SWEAR TO GOD-"
He turned on his heel and ran. Primrose continued screaming obscenities at him.
The gate opened.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 20:12 (2 Years ago)
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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Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 20:47 (2 Years ago)
"Ther? You up?" That voice tore the psychopathic grin off her face, returning her back to the girl she desperately wanted to be today. She couldn't let her emotions control her today, she didn't want any of those thought filling her head. She knew they would never leave, they were always a part of her, and that's who she was. She couldn't get rid of that, could she? No matter how desperately her or her brother tried? Speaking of her brother, she wanted to spend time with him today before the reaping. He was too old to participate in it and already served his time. He had been the victor of the 70th Hunger Games, back when Aether was little. She was shocked to see how, a sweet, caring and sympathetic man could win the games. Turns out, that's exactly how he won. The Capitol loved his personality, and a lot of the other tributes did too. He cared for others in the arena and mourned nearly every loss that ever occurred. He befriended almost everyone except for the careers, and they only died because said careers killed them all to break him down, watch as he cried and hopefully give up. He never did, his spirit stayed strong and he persevered. But he also did things Aether never thought possible. He killed 2 people with his bare fists, and his determination to get back to her remained unwavering throughout. He never wanted to tell Aether this story, in fear that she would worry, but she soon found out after watching the past games. But he was right, it made her worry quite a bit, and it still did. She never knew he was capable of anything like that, and it terrified her. He had so many opportunities to punish Aether for her tendencies, but never did. What if she crossed the line one day? What would happen then? She thought she had crossed it long ago whn she took the lives of her parents, but all she received from him was his absence. He wouldn't talk or do anything for a month, and that month was the worst period of her life. "Yeah..." She quickly decided to stop talking to herself and head downstairs, if you could even call it that. The layout of their poor excuse for a home was odd, so odd she couldn't even describe it. Well, today was the day. She would definitely volunteer if it weren't for her brother, she couldn't stand to see the look on his face if she ever said a word about wanting to go. She knew, however, that he already knew. He was smart, and Aether made it painfully obvious. With her obsession of death, it wouldn't make sense for her not to go to the games. She still couldn't do that to him, and had to hope the little slip of paper with her name on it was pulled.
What was that smell...? It smelled sweet and delicious, like meat being roasted on a stove. It was normal for her to smell this particular scent in her district, but with how motherly her brother was, the way he cooked made it smell magical. She went up to him and looked over his shoulder, and before she could say anything, her brother spoke instead. "Ah, I wanted to make it a surprise!" He let out a laugh and moved to the side a bit for her to see. "I wanted to make something before you went off to the reaping, as a little treat." He said kindly. Somehow, with the little food they got, her brother would always turn it into the best meal of the district. Some would even call him over to make dinner for them for money, and he always did. She knew everyone in this place because of him, and even some peacekeepers who snuck in a meal or two with them. She didn't know others as much as he did though, since people strayed away and kept their distance. People always held onto the memory of what she did, and the only reason she hadn't been witch hunted to death was because of, you guess it, her brother. Even when he was tribute, he didn't get the treatment he deserved. He still lived in this place and only got a slight raise in food supply, which he always shared with everyone else. Before she could let her mind wander the few lovely memories she had, her brother called her to the table as he got plates ready. She quickly sat down and waited patiently, a small smile appearing on her face. "Breakfast is served, enjoy." The soft tone mixed with the sight of a plate filled with bacon, eggs, and bread, and the lovely aroma almost made her senses explode. They both sat down and began to eat, engulfing the food surprisingly quickly. She noticed that he had considerably less on his plate than her, which made her smile disappear. This always happened, he would put Aether first and neglect himself. He deserved so much more than her, but he always saw it the other way. They both sat in silence, the weight of this certain day weighing on their shoulders.
After the meal, Aether got up and went back upstairs, thanking her brother and informing him that she was getting ready. She had a dress given to her by one of the mothers a few houses down, a beautiful ice blue dress that would remind you of the more peaceful and beautiful side of winter. It was long and the bottom half was thin, multiple peaces overlapping in a rose-like pattern. It was her daughter's before she passed, and after one of their visits she gave it to Aether. As much as she resented dresses, and would've much rather preferred casual clothing, this dress was too beautiful to resist. Besides, it would make her brother happy, and that's all she wanted. She put it on and got ready to the best of her ability and headed back downstairs for her brother to do the rest, such as her hair. She had no clue how he had so many talents, but she was grateful he had them. Moments later, everything was finished. Aether had a full stomach, she looked the best she had ever been, and she felt happy for once. Today was different from the other years, she could feel it. "So... How do I look?" Aether asked with a smile, spinning around to show off her dress. She couldn't believe that she was acting this way, it was the complete opposite of what was usual for her. Maybe that's just what happiness did to a person. He let out a chuckle, then gave her a hug. "You look great... Glad to see you're in a good mood..." His voice was reassuring, but the tone seemed to have a strong sense of sadness to it. Oh right... Today could very well be his last day seeing her... Once again, Aether's mood changed entirely. She looked at the clock on the wall to see how much time he had left with him, and what she saw made her panic. They were going to be late if they didn't leave now. "Oh, it's time already? Well, you better wait outside, I'll be there in a bit." They both let go of each other and went their separate ways, her brother upstairs, and Aether outside.
She stood there for about 10 minutes, much longer than what she had expected, and she started to get worried. They were going to be late, and she didn't want to leave him behind. She knocked on the door to make sure she was good to go back in, but there was no response. Dead silence. She knocked again. Dead silence. Thoughts began to race through her mind before she swung the door open, only to find her brother hanging from the ceiling. Her eyes immediately were drawn to a note on the rope, which she only read after letting out a blood-curdling scream. "I'm sorry, Ther... I couldn't bear to go trough this once again, waiting and praying you wouldn't get picked. But I know you. I had a feeling you were going to volunteer for the games, and I laid awake all night thinking about it. I know I'm being selfish, but I couldn't take it anymore, and I'm so sorry I had to leave you, please forgive me. Aether, I love you more than you could ever know, and I hope we meet again soon."
(WIP)
-Sun Tsu, The Art of Gaming
oh hey what's this
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 20:53 (2 Years ago)
Alora watched as her mother wept. She did not understand what was going on. "Papa, what's going on?" a 12-year old Alora asked. "Shhh. Let your mother and Yelena talk..." he whispered to her. "Nono.. I am done. Let Alora say goodbye." Alora cocked her head. "Where's sister Yelena going?" she asked, her voice brittle. "Oh little luchik. I'm going to a place where the sun shines everyday. The light is is never extinguished." Yelena picked her little sister up. "What happened?" Alora asked, her small voice breaking. "You were reaped and I took your spot." Yelena murmured truthfully. It dawned on Alora why mother was crying. "NO!" Alora began to sob. "Nononononononononononononononono!" Alora's words slurred. Yelena gave her a tight hug. "Stay strong luchik. Look after mama. Make sure the twins live to understand how lucky they are. Make sure Oran still smiles, and give Papa the biggest of hugs for me okay? You are the shining light of this family, always remember that." Yelena Lux set her sister down and gave her one last smile, a smile saved only for sisters, before the peacekeepers led her away. Away to die.
Reaping Day: 74th Hunger Games
Alora put the blue rose down on the grave. Her hands trembled and she struggled with not crying. Mama had permitted Alora 10 minutes by herself before they left to go to the reaping. "Yelena I'm scared. I'm scared and I want to cry. I'm not as brave as you were. I can't do this by myself." Alora allowed the tears she had been keeping away to fall. It was here, at the grave of Yelena Lux that Alora could voice her fears. "Mama knows what I plan to do. I will do what you did for me. You saved my life, I will save the life of another girl, someone who doesn't deserve to die." Alora whispered. "Why did you have to volunteer? Why did you have to leave?" she knew it was silly. If Yelena Lux had not volunteered to save her life, Alora would be very dead. "I hope you are happy in the place of eternal light. I hope the sun shines every day, and the water is always clear blue like on the TV. I hope you're smiling every day." Alora closed her eyes before slowly standing up. "I will be brave for you Yelena. I promise." she whispered.
The walk to the town center was long and quiet. Mama held Apollo and Alya's hands, mainly to keep them from running off. Babushka had chosen to come along today, perhaps because she too knew Alora planned to volunteer. "There is no better way to go, then to save the life of another." Babushka had said those words on the day Yelena had left too. Alora wondered what her chances of survival were. Fairly high, she thought, because she lived in District 1. Once they had finally gotten to the town center, the filed into lines, got there blood drawn and were taken to where they were supposed to stand. Things went a lot more smoothly in District 1, compared to say, District 8. Alora smiled when she saw some of her friends waving to her. Her smile faltered when she realized she may never see them again.
Alora tuned out the capitol woman who came to draw names. Her accent was annoying, nothing like Mama's and Babushka's lovely accents. "And may the odds-" Alora looked up. "Be ever in your favor." she finished quietly. "Ladies first, as usual." the woman dug around in the bowl for a little while. "Cora-" Alora stood up. She knew who was going to be picked. The only Cora in there district was 13. "I volunteer as tribute!" her voice was loud and clear, and rang through the center. The lady looked startled. "My my, is that the daughter of the famous Thea Lux? What an honor it is... what an honor indeed..." Alora ignored the woman as she weaved through people to get to the stage. Usually there was a competition. "I believe your name was been called before, was it not?" the District mayor said curiously. Alora narrowed her eyes dangerously. She did not respond, she just pushed her golden hair out of her eyes. The capitol lady chuckled. "With complexation like that, it's no wonder your name is Lux. Let's give it up for Miss Alora Lux, daughter of Thea Lux and sister of Yelena Lux!" Alora hated the fact that people cheered for her. She played her part and bowed.
As usual, they let the tributes have time with their families before they sent them to the capitol. Alora hadn't paid attention to the boys reaping. Mama and Alya were let in first. "Please come back quickly." Alya gave Alora puppy dog eyes while she hugged Alora's leg, being too short to reach much higher. Alya stepped back as Papa and Oran joined in, Babushka close behind them. "You really are the spitting image of Yelena." Oran murmured, joining in on the family hug. Mother said nothing but nodded, her arms around Alora as if protecting her from the world. Apollo shoved his way into the hug, and hugged Alora's other leg, causing Alora to laugh a little. Papa wrapped the family is his embrace. "Yelena would be so proud of you little luchik." Babushka did not join the hug, but when her eyes met Alora's, there was nothing but pride shining in her ancient face. Alora felt an unearthly shiver as a patch of cold touched her shoulder. "Yelena..." she whispered under her breath. Alora's sister was there too, giving her living sister the biggest hug ever. "Ma'am, you need to leave now..." the peacekeeper knocked on the door before entering. "One second.." Mama said, giving him a nod. Everyone let go of Alora. "Mama, make sure to make Alya and Apollo their special meals on Thursdays." Alora said, going into protective older sister mode. "Oran, make sure not to strain your back. Papa, make sure Oran doesn't strain his back. Apollo, look after Alya, and Alya keep everyone happy." Alora rushed her words, giving everyone one last hug.
"See you in 4 months." Alora said, allowing herself to be taken through the same doors that Yelena had gone through 5 years earlier. The unearthly cold followed her. Alora smiled. Yelena was always protecting her.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 21:06 (2 Years ago)
District 7 (TOWN SQUARE)
Flocks of children gathered before the iron gate, flapping their arms awkwardly, pushing to get in the right lanes. Each child was caught, and their wristband scanned before they were sent through. The security was particularly heavy this day.
At the back of the crowd with the rest of the 17 year olds, Riggs Oakfrost stood, arms hanging leisurely by his sides. And yet his eyes were scanning the people- looking for a familiar brown head. When it didn't appear, he looked away, instead examining the sky.
Blood red.
The perfect day for the debut of Riggs Oakfrost, winner of the 74th Hunger Games.
A smile inched up the corners of his mouth.
At last, most of the younger children were through. There were quite a few- the age groups grew scanter as you went up. Most people starved by 12 or 13.
Riggs held out his arm, and was quickly admitted. He headed through the gate and to the front rows, where he could directly see the Capitol woman on the stage, hair and smile frazzled.
Even the Capitol has bad days sometimes, I guess, he thought. The gates, admitting the last of the 18 year olds, slid shut with a loud bang.
"Welcome all to the Reaping of the 74th Hunger Games!"
Riggs' shoulder bumped with someone, and with a hiss, he pulled back. A 16 year old from another lane. He shot her a glare- and paused, briefly. She looked far too young to be in the front crowds. And people were pulling away from her, as if she were in the wrong place. But the Capitol would never have made such a mistake.
"Hey," he whispered. "You sure you in the right line?" He flashed a sharp grin. "You look right puny. A mouse could munch you up. Spray blood all over the grass with a little nibble."
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 21:34 (2 Years ago)
Her tiny hands balled into fists.
"Keep your insults to yourself, you good-for-nothing rat. " She spat back at him.
Her arms shook from nerves.
The reaping was about to begin.
Deep breaths Minya. Deep breaths.
Don't...just don't don't get angry.
It won't help.
Her eyes dropped down, shining with anger.
Her cheeks flushed.
Minya let out a silent hmph of anger.
Remarks about her height really annoyed her.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 21:34 (2 Years ago)
Auntie was one of the people who was desperate for money and tesserae. But of course, she could not enter. Even if she could, she was a coward. She would find some way to get out of it. Auntie was a manipulator, and a good one at that. That was how she skirted bills, and Peacekeepers, evreyone. That was how she always got her way. So she made each and evrey one of the children who could enter put their names in. And they did, because evreyone knew you had to listen to Auntie. Seven children, faces red from slaps and covered in dirt, paths made in the grime on their faces from tears, put their names in until Auntie was satisfied. Kept writing out their names with shaky, poorly educated letters until Auntie was happy. Auntie was never truly happy, but this was the closest that they would come, and the children always wanted Auntie happy, so they did their best.
Agria was one of them. Being one of the older children, she had put her name in the most- fourty-eight times. She knew that she was a shoo-in. Agria knew also that she would die. She was sad, mute, and weak, what fat and lazy Capitol person would take interest in her? Their coins would go to the strong ones, the fast ones, the smart ones. She had enough disadvantages that if she was picked, she would die with no help. So Agria did the only thing she could. She held on to the small, desperate hope that somehow, in some way, she would not be picked. That fate would ignore the terrible odds and pick someone else, one of the stronger and better Careers. They wanted this, they always had. So why not give them what they wanted? That way Agria would live and die after a life of hard work and toil, but at least one where she wasn't fighting to the death. Agria was sure she could not do that.
The capitol man climbed the stairs, getting to the podium. He was a lean, muscular man, with little to none of the makeup and hair colors the capitol was famous for, with only a dark blue stripe in his black hair. He was a kind man, and fair. Some said that he was weak, but Agria loved him for it. It seemed that he was the only adult with some kind of humanity left in him. The crowd roared, and he silenced them with a hand. One of the little children whose hand Agria was holding stiffened, and Agria squeezed her hand gently to say, I'm here. I'm protecting you, no matter what. Even if she was still hoping that she wouldn't be picked. The mayor spoke, his voice rising over the crash and fall of the waves at the beach below, and the wind whistling as it sang the death march of a boy and a girl from District 4.
"Ladies and Gentelmen of District 4, welcome to the Reaping of the 74th anual Hunger Games." He spoke with sadness in his voice, but the people cheered, fists shaking in the air. Auntie clapped, a sort of twisted smile on her face. "We will be pulling two names, a boy and a girl, to go to the capitol and particpate in the hunger games." He told the story of the origon, a story evreyone knew by heart. "Now, let's begin with the names." He went to a glass orb filled with slips of paper, and turned the handle. Then, he put his hand in, moved the papers around as evreyone waited with bated breath. Please, Agria prayed, Please don't pick my name. She would see the answer to her question as he pulled out a name, and unfolded it. There was a moment of silence, then he spoke. "Carlietta Duncan!"
Agria's face went pale. She knew Carlietta. That was the little 12 year old girl that was clutching her hand right now. This wasn't fair. Carlietta's hand was trembling, and she sobbed, "Please, no, I don't wanna go, please! No!" "Shut up," Auntie hissed, yanking her hand from Agria's before she could stop her, hitting the girl as she dragged her to the podium. "No!" Carlietta screamed, teary eyed, "No! Stop!" Agria pushed through the crowd, running after her, tears falling as well. She would scream if she could. She got to Auntie and grabbed her hand. Auntie let go of Carlietta long enough to slap her. "Stop this, you disgusting mute!" Agria signed out, "I volunteer.""What?" Auntie's face twisted in displeasure. "I volunteer," She signed again. "Fine," Auntie snapped, "Maybe you'll die and I'll be able to get rid of you." "Aggie!" Carliette sobbed, clutching the girl, "Don't go!" Auntie tried to pull her off, but Agria stopped her, bending to the little girl's level.
What is our story? She signed. With shaking hands, Carlietta signed back, The little lamb and the ram. The little lamb would always have the ram to protect her. And now, the ram has to do this to protect her. Take care of the others, little lamb. Agria embraced Carlietta and kissed her on the forehead, before a Peacekeeper came to get her. Auntie growled and pulled Carlietta away, who was still sniffling. Agria went quietly with the Peacekeeper, remembering what she had told the others before, to comfort them.
The odds of being reaped were low
but never zero.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 21:39 (2 Years ago)
Riggs Oakfrost (LOCATION: TOWN SQUARE OF DISTRICT 7)
"Oh?" Riggs leaned across the rope line barring the two. His breathe wafted over her face, blue eyes connecting with hers. "Am I a rat now? Then what would that make you? A mouse?"
He smiled pleasantly. Internally, though, his heart sang. A little bit of banter never hurt! Any fire was quite pleasant- even, or perhaps especially ones you couldn't extinguish. She wouldn't be in the games with him. That'd be Primrose.
He bit his cheek, pondering that for a second- Primrose- what had happened to her? The last time her eyes had met his, he'd seen fear in them. And the sounds of Peacekeepers. Was she dead? That'd be unfortunate.
"Mice are cute," he went on. "They're small and you can squish them underneath your boot." A giggle began in the pit of his stomach. "Guts everywhere. So easy and small and cute. It's almost a crime."
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 22:07 (2 Years ago)
"You...you..."
She scowled.
"You cut it out with the mice insults.
I am not a mouse."
She sighed.
"You however, are a rat.
A vile, good-for-nothing, lazy, big-headed rat!"
Minya was beyond furious.
"So why don't you shove your insults, UP YOUR-"
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 22:21 (2 Years ago)
District 7 Reaping
"Ding dong, ding!" The woman from the capitol singsonged. "Time runs short! Let us start the Reaping off- with the female tribute!"
In a fluid motion, the woman was breezing across the stage. She stopped before a bowl. Riggs' brow furrowed. Why was she hesitating?
A peacekeeper slipped through the door at the back of the stage. Silence fell over the square as the man whispered in her ear and her face grew increasingly serious.
"Unfortunately," the woman said, addressing the people below. "There have been some... issues with the female Reaping Pot. We will instead be selecting a Tribute from the crowds!" Her face brightened. "You there, sweetheart!"
Isn't it the female tribute they're asking about? Riggs' wondered. Why was she pointing at him? Slowly, it dawned on him. He looked to the right of him and his eyes caught on the face of Squishy-Mouse Girl.
The Capitol woman's finger made a direct line to her.
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 22:34 (2 Years ago)
There was silence.
There was a high-pitched ringing in Minya's ears.
Oh god no.
This has to be a mistake.
She couldn't hear.
All the voices around her were muffled.
She felt hot...and cold at the same time.
Her cheeks felt like fire.
Her heart felt like ice.
Minya started to shake.
She shakily raised her head up to the Capitol woman.
"W-....what?"
She asked faintly.
Me?
A shriek was heard amongst the crowd.
"Min-ya! Min-ya!"
Shouted a shrill voice.
"Min-yaa!"
"....Min-....ya.."
A tear ran down Minya's cheek.
It happened.
The thing she dreaded.
The chanced are low....Minya.
Her mind echoed.
But never zero.
But never zero.
But never zero.
"Yes, you!"
Called the Capitol lady.
She rolled her eyes.
"Now get up here, young lady!
The lady tutted.
"What is your name, young one?"
She asked, peering down at Minya.
"Minya, eh?"
The woman cleared her throat.
"THE FEMALE TRIBUTE OF DISTRICT SEVEN, MINYA REEDSHAW!"
The crowd was silent.
"And now, for the boys!"
There was a brief pause as the woman scrambled to grab a slip of paper.
She peered at it closely.
"Ahem."
"And now.
The male tribute for District 7...
RIGGS OAKFROST!"
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 22:48 (2 Years ago)
District 7 REAPING
Riggs would've smiled if his brain hadn't slipped on the well-worn treads it'd made since the very moment he and Primrose had begun their grudging friendship. A mistake? So they caught her? And they're... Oh! The Mouse Girl!
The crowd began to part around him.
Riggs did smile, a big one now. Well, his District partner was different, but he had still accomplished his dream. He was heading off to the Games. Thanks, Primmy. I guess you did help me some.
The 17 year old started forward. Eyes every shade of brown and amber under the sun watched him. Few truly knew him. But the District 2 boy- yes, the District 2 boy they called him. The former children of the Community Home knew him well enough. They had been his stepping stones before.
He started up the steps. He slowly looked up, eyes meeting the Mouse-Girl's-
And then screaming started beyond the gate.
His eyes snapped to the side and for just a moment, he saw Primrose's terrified face, black and blue across the tanned skin.
"RIGGS! RIGGS! HELP-" Then white gloves clasped over her mouth and dragged her back. The Capitol women tsked.
"Troublemaking girl," she commented. "Couldn't keep her hands out of the Reaping Pot."
Riggs' tore his eyes away and started up the steps again. He came to Mouse-Girl's- what was her name again-? and offered his hand, as was traditional of tributes.
District 9 REAPING
Four teenagers of various heights and ages swept inside the District 9 Square. Three of them had dark, satiny skin and darker hair- one had a pinched, white, scowling face. All four were dressed in clean, bright colours. Hungry eyes of the children in the back watched them make their way to the front of the crowd, just as the Reaping started.
Majoree could taste blood on her bottom lip. Inevitably, two poor children would be chosen and forced to compete in a Death Game. Inevitably, she'd have to watch the death of two people who could've been herself if they'd just happened to come to another house-
She felt a squeeze on her hand. Surprised, she looked down. Chia's whole body was visibly shaking. But her older sister gave her a wane smile and squeezed tighter. Feeling a flash of pity, Majoree returned it.
The Capitol woman on stage started forward, beginning with the traditional words, "Happy 74th Hunger Games!"
Majoree tuned her out, instead preferring to glance around at the families around her. Unlike other Districts, they were sorted by class instead of age. The richest came to the front, the poorest to the back. It was sickening. While they might not be the poorest District, they certainly were one of the worst in terms of how they treated one another.
Then she jerked to attention. The woman was moving towards the Reaping Bowl.
She didn't even have time to squeeze Chia's hand a final time before a name read. A name she never would've expected this morning, sitting on that hill, looking with pity on others- A name she wouldn't have even expected in the dreary dusty Square she and her siblings stood in.
"Majoree Sinclair, if you would please step forward?"
Posted: Sat, 22/01/2022 22:49 (2 Years ago)
Adrienne saw ghosts. She saw things she knew didn't exist. And yet they existed for her. Did that mean she didn't exist? Hm. Interesting. Adrienne couldn't trust her eyes. She couldn't trust herself. Maybe the people staring at her didn't exist. But they did, they did and there eyes burned. Adri wished she was a ghost. Her life would be so much easier if it just... didn't. She wished for simplicity, she yearned for silence. But her head was always screaming.
Reaping, reaping, reaping.
What did it mean? It meant certain death. Or did it? Did Adrienne deserve to make it out? Adrienne didn't know. So much that she pretended to know. So much she should know, but the voices told her she didn't. Adrienne found herself humming and then abruptly stopped. "No music in District 12 Adri." she scolded herself.
Agent Fallows, signing out~