Welcome the 1st Annual Hunger Games! The SYOT is now closed, but once all the reapings are posted, I will post a list of possible alliances you can vote for (by PM only please) on my profile.
Enjoy the prologue!
Sing Out! (:
SW
Prologue
One year before the Reaping...
"The districts have wronged the government, yes that is so, but what is your suggestion for punishment, Snow?" probes the Head Councilman.
The young president stands, an intimidating, almost regal air about him. He paces at the head of the Capitol Council conference table. Snow smiles coldly at those seated before him. In his mind, they are in their natural state. That is, below him.
"My proposal is great and may require resources and money funded for by the districts and possibly the Captiol resident's taxes," begins Snow, "but I promise you that it will be an excellent consequence to the defeated rebels."
"We are already low in terms of budget, President," counters the Council Accountant frustratedly. "Your plan may not be possible in the present state of our nation."
"I fully understand that factor, Branson," says Snow harshly. "However, this event will force the districts to obey our each and every command. It does not have to start next year. I have got a plan, you know."
"Will it only be a one-time conviction?" interrupts the Head Councilman.
"Not at all," Snow retorts. "It will take place every year at the start of summer. The Capitol will fund for an arena. It will differ immensely each year. And in this arena will be one young man and woman from each district."
"Will this be a sort of competition?" inquires one Councilmember.
"Indeed. The most brutal, nasty competition Panem has ever seen," says Snow intensely. "This boy and girl will be chosen in a ceremony called a Reaping. They will be sent to the Capitol for an interview, parade, and training before it begins."
"And what exactly will this training be for?" the Head Councilman interjects doubtfully.
"Killing," Snow replies simply. There is a prideful tone to his voice. This sends a wave of alarm throughout the Council.
"E-excuse me," stammers another member, "killing?"
"Yes," the president says. "The tributes will be sent into the arena to kill each other. The last one alive will be named victor and their district will be showered in riches of all sorts for exactly one year."
"How does this show the districts that we are dominant?" asks a Councilmember.
"By taking the young men and women, we are telling them that we are in charge. Defying us means death. Following us means hope," retorts Snow. "The last one standing in the arena means that the districts are not all hopeless. There is a chance for them to be proud of where they live. They will not strive to lose, thus turning several into our personal lapdogs."
The young man scans the Council with dangerous eyes, searching for those who may disagree with his brilliant ideas. Most looked intrigued by his words, others slightly cynical.
Out of a briefcase, Snow pulls a sleek, thick black folder. He then proceeds to distribute the papers within the Capitol Council.
"This," Snow announces, "is the ultimate penalty for those who have campaigned against us. The war is over and we have triumphed. The districts deserve this. The competition will thrust them into our hands. Of course, under the terms of my drafted Treaty of Treason, no tribute will ever dare to rebel. Anyone who tries will be disposed of quickly and quietly under my orders."
The room is mute for several minutes as the Council skims over the papers.
The Head Councilman sets down the draft of the Treaty and proposal and glances furtively at his fellow Councilmembers. They nod in harmony.
Snow grins coldly. They have accepted.
"It is genius, I assure you, President Snow," confirms the Head Councilman. "But what is this competition to be called?"
Snow pauses dramatically, wanting to heighten the Council's curiosity even more. He declares the name at last.
"The Hunger Games."
Hope you enjoyed it! (:
Remember to reivew. It encourages me to write the Reapings faster. ;)
Sing Out! (:
SW