And we begin! Thanks to all who submitted tributes! Once more, I apologize to those who were unable to make the cut. All of the tributes who were submitted were awesome and I was a tough call on all spots. I hope that any tributes who were not accepted will find life in another SYOT, as I know there are plenty of them about!
Now, let's begin with the Reapings! I'm planning on doing two Districts a chapter to help speed things along. Hope you guys enjoy the tributes and that I did them justice!
And yes... most Reaping Chapters will be this long.
The 77th Hunger Games: The Damned
By Dante Alighieri1308
Chapter 1 The Willing Souls
District 1
It was a rare day indeed when the training center was empty, a rare day that Krystal intended to seize upon regardless of the occasion.
Currently, Krystal was focusing all of her attention on the sounds around her, trying to pick up on the slightest detail of which direction the next attack would be coming. It was a skill she was only capable of due to years of relentless training. It was also a necessity considering she was a blind, seventeen year old girl who was trying to be a Career.
A sharp twang was heard to Krystal's left and she spun quickly, raising her shield in time to block the oncoming attack. The plastic arrow thumped against her shield, the fourth one to do so. Krystal sighed angrily.
"Good, Krystal." her brother, Scorpio, commended in his deep voice. "I'm surprised you managed to hear that."
"I hear everything." Krystal retorted. Scorpio rolled his eyes at his younger sister's impatience. He knew that Krystal did not enjoy fighting with a shield and considered this exercise unimportant, but as a trainer at the Career Academy, Scorpio had a duty to make sure his sister was prepared to use any weapon.
"Do you want to go a few rounds without the shield?" Scorpio asked.
Krystal dropped the shield quickly, the metal clanging against the training center's silver floor. Scorpio only smiled back, "Figured. I'll get the machines rigged."
Taking a moment to relax, Krystal swept her hair from her eyes. Even though she couldn't see, it still bothered her to have the hair in front of her face. While she couldn't see, she well fully aware that others could and were judging her constantly. Apparently having hair in front of your face made you looked 'uncivilized', however that look was.
Before Krystal could begin her next exercise though, the hum of the machines dyed down and she heard her brother gasp.
'Shit.' Krystal thought. 'He's here.'
The Academy's Head Trainer looked down at the brother and sister pair from the raised viewing platform. "Trainer Avery, you know that the Academy is closed on Reaping Day." he barked angrily.
"I know, sir." Scorpio said, stiffening up. "I apologize, sir."
"It was my fault." Krystal admitted, not looking towards the direction of the Head Trainer's voice. She used to do that with people, but found that more often then not she was looking in the wrong place.
From a distance, Krystal could hear the Head Trainer snort derisively. It was a well known fact that he, and most of the other trainers, were not fans of the Avery family. The mere fact that they had allowed twenty-three year old Scorpio to be a trainer was a bizarre miracle.
"Just pack up and get out of here." the Head Trainer growled. "The Reaping starts in four hours."
"We know, sir." Krystal muttered, a hint of challenge in her voice. Scorpio tensed and grabbed his sister, dragging her from the training floor. As soon as they were out of earshot, Krystal laughed.
"What a prick." she muttered.
"Show some respect." Scorpio muttered back angrily. "You won't be able to get into the Games next year without his blessing."
"I'm the fifth Avery to go through the Career academy." Krystal shot back. "I don't think it really matters that much."
Scorpio offered no response to that. She was right, the Avery's were just a long line of failures. Scorpio was the first, followed by Pollux two years later, and most recently the Avery twins Jett and Jasper this year. The mere fact that Krystal was even in the Academy was because her father 'bought' her spot in the Academy. Krystal had hated it and she worked everyday to show that she didn't deserve to be held back because of it or her blindness.
"Tell me what they say about me." Krystal asked.
Scorpio shook his head. "I've never answered and I'm not going to now."
"Well I already know." Krystal replied defiantly. "They think I can't handle myself, that I'm only here because 'daddy's little angel' wanted something and she got it. That I don't stand a chance at making it into the Games!"
"That's enough Krystal!" Scorpio hissed harshly, gripping his sister tightly by the arm. "Just take a shower and get changed. I'll meet you outside the locker room."
"I'm going to shower at home. Layla is coming by to get me ready for the Reaping."
Scorpio huffed, but complied. "Then let's go home then."
Krystal wrestled herself out of her brother's grip and walked out the main doors of the Academy herself. In her earlier years, Krystal had desperately wished for the ability to see the splendor that was the Diamond Quarter, District 1's richest section of the District. She had heard how flowers and beautiful statues lined every corner, along with cobble stoned roads and marbled buildings. Today, those wishes were largely gone as she had come to adapt to her handicap.
Even without sight, Krystal could still hear people mulling around, preparing for the Reapings. Later that night, this entire section of the city would be a zoo of people who were celebrating the start of the Games. It was a week long festival until the Games started, filled with socially acceptable drunken escapades, questionable activities, and easy sexual encounters. Every vice the District dabbled in would be on display and every citizen would be scrambling to participate in it.
After about ten minutes of walking, brother and sister arrived at their home, a mansion that showed off all the family's wealth without reserve. Beautiful gardens and statues lay out front, no expensive spared to let visitors understand that the Avery's could literally throw money around. Krystal was unable to enjoy the splendor herself, but she had been told constantly at how beautiful her home was. Some had commented that the 'airy and open' interior had been specifically for Krystal to limit the amount of objects she could bump into.
The inside of the house was just as extravagant, though somber in mood. Layla and the twins, Jett and Jasper, sat in the foyer, resting comfortably on reclining chairs in front of the holographic television. Caesar was currently shouting his happiness for the start of the new Games as he interviewed Capitol celebrities and reporters on their thoughts on the upcoming Games. Layla brightened up as Scorpio and Krystal walked in, happy for the distraction the depressed twins.
"Krystal!" Layla shouted, letting her presence be known. "We didn't expect you back for a while."
"Head Trainer kicked us out." Krystal responded bitterly.
"Well that's too bad. But at least I have more time to make you look fabulous! Not that you don't already though!" Layla comforted.
"How are you guys doing?" Scorpio asked, standing next to his two younger brothers.
Neither of them looked at Scorpio. "Chipper as can be." Jett replied, sarcasm dripping from every syllable.
"Fucking, Chance." Jasper muttered angrily.
Krystal sighed, not wanting to get involved with her twins. Both of them had been in their final year of the Academy, thus making them eligible for volunteering for the Games. However, both of them had failed to get the position and had lost out to another boy named Chance.
"I heard his family bought the position." Jasper shouted angrily.
Scorpio shrugged. "Could be. It's not that uncommon for bribery to be involved in these sorts of things."
"Or he could have just been very skilled." Layla put out.
All Avery children looked at Layla like she was a misunderstanding child. No one bothered to correct her though. If she wished to live in a 'purer' world then they did, so be it. The Avery's hadn't had that comfort since learning that blood money had been the source of much of their father's early wealth.
"Where is father, by the way?" Krystal asked.
"Out at the mine. He left an hour ago with kiss-ass Pollux." Jett said.
"You know what, I'm going to volunteer!" Jasper suddenly announced, jumping out of his chair. "I don't give a damn what the council said, I'm volunteering!"
"No, you're not." Scorpio said in a stern tone. "You know what happens to family's who go against the council's wishes."
"Nothing bad will happen if and when I win." Jasper announced confidently.
Krystal chuckled at his brother's ambition. "You can't beat Chance. He's too tough." she said.
"The last thing I need is daddy's little girl to tell me what to do!" Jasper shouted back.
"Ok! We're done here!" Scorpio shouted, his authoritative side rising. He gave Layla a look, who nodded in response and began moving Krystal up the stairs to her room. Once they were inside, Layla shut and locked the door behind her, cutting them off from Jasper's ranting about failing to get nominated to volunteer.
Krystal huffed angrily and kicked her queen size bed in a rage, causing Layla to gasp. "Ok, girl talk right now Krystal!" she demanded.
"Stop with the girly girl bullshit, alright Layla? You know I can't stand it!" Krystal demanded.
"Fine." Layla responded passively. "Do you want to tell me what's bugging you?"
Krystal sighed, used to keeping her emotions bottled up. She hated letting people know that she was suffering or feeling conflicted. It only brought on pity and Krystal hated pity. Layla was at least pretty good about it and usually the only person Krystal opened up to, minus Scorpio.
"I'm never going to be a true Career." Krystal said softly. "I... I know that the council will never let me have the spot."
Krystal heard and felt Layla move closer, sitting down on Krystal's bed with her. "Why not? You're a great fighter!"
"That means a lot, considering you've seen me fight all of zero times." Krystal responded bitterly.
"Well I've heard from Scorpio that you're very talented. I never heard him say that about Pollux, Jett, or Jasper!" Layla comforted.
Krystal smiled, appreciative of her brother. She was told that people weren't supposed to have favorites in their family, but Krystal did and it was Scorpio. Father was always busy with work, Pollux never much cared for anything that Krystal did, and the twins always made her feel like she was third-wheeling them. Scorpio was always there was her and supported her through everything. It was his word that finally made their father agree to Krystal training at the academy. Every since then, Scorpio hadn't abandoned her once.
"That's a solid endorsement." Krystal laughed.
"Scorpio doesn't screw around with compliments." Layla said, laughing as well.
"I just... I just feel like no one respects me at the Academy." Krystal admitted. "That people just overlook me because of... you know..."
Layla hummed in agreement, knowing that Krystal hated admitting to her blindness. "People are jerks sometimes, Krystal. It sucks but it's true."
Krystal wasn't a fan of that answer. "They are, but I can be an even bigger jerk. I just need to show them they're wrong, that I do have what it takes to be a Victor!"
Layla gasped and went wide eyed. "You're not going to volunteer, are you?"
"What?" Krystal said, looking insulted. "Of course not!"
"Krystal..."
"I'm serious, Layla! I'm not an idiot," Krystal said. "I know what would happen if I did. I'm pretty sure Vespa would kill me too."
"I know Vespa would kill you." Layla said, the image of District 1's appointed volunteer causing her to cringe. "That girl is a scary bitch."
"True." Krystal said, tired of talking about her future roll in the Games. "Do you want to start getting ready?"
"Yes!" Layla squealed happily. "I found the most beautiful dress for you to wear! You'll have everyone else blinded by your beauty."
"Nice choice of words." Krystal laughed.
"Thank you." Layla said, unfazed. "Now come on, you have to take a shower first before I can start working on you."
Krystal felt Layla hug her, which she returned in full. Krystal broke it apart first, wondering over to her bathroom and shutting the door behind her. Once under the comfort of running water, Krystal allowed her insecurities to blossom.
She knew she would never get the position of tribute... not in a million years. For one, her father would never allow his only daughter to go into harms way. Jasper had been harsh with his tone, but his words rung true. Krystal was daddy's little girl and he never wanted anything bad to happen to her. He could send his sons into danger, but never his daughter.
Plus, it wasn't like the council would allow for a blind girl into the Games anyways, even if she was the top of her class. It would look bad for the District and she couldn't imagine her partner, or the other Careers, sparing much pity for her in the arena. When the Careers broke apart, she was sure she'd be the first targeted.
Krystal felt like crying, something she hadn't done in years. But like always, she toughened up and pulled herself together. She would just have to show them how good she was. She would prove herself a thousand times over; show them that if they turned her down they would be considered fools.
She would become the best tribute they had ever seen.
Perfection stood reflecting before Chancellor Mallerion, perfection in the form of his own body.
Beautiful, lean, and muscular, Chance held all the attributes of a typical District 1 Career. His brown hair, tanned skin, and green eyes was however different from the usual blonde haired beauty from the District. Still, looking at himself nude in front of the mirror, Chance couldn't help but feel proud of his features. Outwardly though, he hardly cared about those. They were simply apart of who he was and Chance cared very little for himself. He cared for his body, he cared for his mind's wellness, but not much for his appeal to others.
It was still early, still two hours until the Reapings would begin. As always, Chance began his day through his ritual mediations and study. He would stand naked in his stoic furnished room, stretching and bending his body to limber up before taking on the day. In the background was soft and eloquent music which would inspire Chance to go for his limits. On his desk in front of him rested a book, which Chance would study and learn from every morning. Today's lesson was on the female anatomy, spotting the differences between it and the male's. There were plenty of pictures of nude, beautiful women, but Chance's body did not act accordingly. Only a fool couldn't control their emotions like Chance could.
Still, it was hard for Chance not to feel anything on Reaping Day. Pride, however deadly it was, swelled through him as he reflected upon eight years of training that had gotten him to where he was today. It had been no easy task to prove himself to the council, but they had selected right when choosing him. District 1 had sent in fine tributes for the past few years, but none of them came close to claiming the title of Victor. Not like he would.
There was a knock on his door and his family's maid informed him that breakfast was ready downstairs. Chance got changed into loose fitting clothing and headed downstairs where his parents were already sitting at their mahogany dining table. Expensive silverware was laid out in a set of three; some of the best money could buy. He knew his family would have preferred gold, but the Capitol was rather fickle about supplying citizens with anything golden.
Chance understood their reasoning, he even admired the Capitol's understanding of subtle subjugation.
"Chancellor!" his mother, Blair, said, brightening up at the sight of her son. "We've made you your favorite breakfast for your special day!"
Chance smiled softly, knowing that his parent's contribution to the meal was a command to the kitchen staff. "Thank you, mother." he said, taking his seat at the table. His meal, like most things about him, was a simple breakfast. Scrambled eggs, a few links of sausage, and a glass of orange juice. A servant brought out some bread and jelly for him too, smiling happily at him.
"Good luck today, sir." she said.
Chance thought about correcting the servant, letting her know that luck was nonexistent, but decided against it. Why dampen the mood with correctness? She was clearly happy for him and why should that stop?
"Will you be having another party this year?" Chance asked his parents.
"Of course! The Mallerion Reaping day party is an essential part of District culture now." Chance's father replied.
'For some.' Chance thought to himself, thinking of all the elite snobs who would be passing through his home tonight.
"I just hope we won't have any vagrants tonight." his mother said, taking a sip from her glass. "I'm told that the Jasmine Quarter smells of vomit and filth for a week after."
Both parents chuckled at the thought.
"Ah yes. Let the poor suffer among the poor, yes?" Chance asked rhetorically.
Neither of his parents made a comment, focusing their attention on the food in front of them. While no one in the elite liked the think about it, a significant percentage of the District population was living in poverty. Yes, District 1 had a large upper and middle class, but the lower class still made up almost half of their population. It was nowhere as bad as the outlier Districts, but it was bad enough to be noticeable. Still, District 1 never appeared that way to the rest of Panem as all of their tributes were from the wealthy family's.
As they continued to eat in silence, Chance looked over both of his parents, trying to figure out how they were truly feeling about him volunteering.
Did he love his parents?
That was a difficult question for Chance to answer and a difficult concept to grasp, but it was a question that had been plaguing him for a while. He understood that he wouldn't be in this world without them, he understood that he wouldn't have lived such a fortunate life without them, and he understood that they loved him. But Chance couldn't quite express those feelings of love for them. He wasn't sure why, his parents were so full of life and never left him short of love. Chance had lived a life of luxury and privilege, all thanks to his parents. But he always felt like something was lacking in their relationship, something that no matter what he did he couldn't bridge.
"I'm going to get changed." Chance declared, getting up from the table and allowing the maid to sweep away his food.
"You're not even finished with your food!" his mother cried.
"Not hungry." he stated, leaving the room quickly. He moved back to his own room, moving methodically past all the beautiful works of art his parents had acquired over the years. Chance didn't do much else for the rest of the morning, opting to sit in his room and listen to beautiful music. He didn't know when he'd have a chance to listen to the composer again, it was his understanding that the Capitol was rather... electronic with their taste in music. Chance shuddered at the thought of such horrendous, overhyped 'music'.
Still, he couldn't deny his excitement of visiting the Capitol. District 1 bored him and volunteering was, among other things, a chance to explore more of the world. He planned to seize every opportunity he got to explore every inch of the Capitol.
An hour later, Chance departed his home alone. His parents had a few things to do before they made their way to the Reaping. He didn't mind though, Chance preferred to be by himself.
"Hey Chance!"
Chance turned, surprised to see his fellow trainee from the Academy, Xavier, waiting outside his house. Some would call them friends, but Chance had never really warmed up to the idea.
"Surprise! Happy Reaping Day!" Xavier announced happily.
"What are you doing here?" Chance asked, realizing how rude it sounded moment after.
Xavier paused, never adjusting to Chance's monotone way of speaking. "I thought I'd come walk you to the Reaping. You know, as support and stuff."
"Oh, well that's thoughtful of you." Chance said. He continued walking away, giving no indication for Xavier to follow him. He still did though, offering a smile in return.
"So good day for a Reaping." Xavier said.
"I suppose."
"I saw-"
"You don't have to create small talk." Chance interrupted.
Xavier paused, allowing silence to fall over them as they walked towards the Reaping. As they did, the eloquent surroundings of the Diamond Quarter gave way to the modest yet imposing setting of the government buildings. The Justice Building stood at the center of the city, a large yard in front of it to house all the children for the Reaping. District 1 was by far the smallest District in Panem, a mere speck on the map compared to sprawling expanse of other Districts, like District 11, so accommodating the entire District's child population was not hard. There was of course some overflow, but the younger children could be squished together.
"I saw Whittaker earlier today." Xavier said, finally breaking the silence. "She looked... well."
Chance looked at Xavier but gave no other sign of his thoughts. Whittaker... he hadn't seen her in over a year. In fact, no one had really. She had become a pariah ever since she had failed to volunteer for last years Games, allowing instead for Charm Acelyn to step forward and claim the spot. Her reasoning was perhaps the worst as well, she was fearful for her life. Fearful for what she would face in the arena. Fearful for what would happen to her family should she fail to win the Games.
Chance felt a pang of similar fear for a moment, but quickly brushed it aside. What was done was done, there was no point in dwelling on it. He knew exactly what he had signed up for and he had been trained to the best of his abilities. To take the cowards way out was irresponsible and pathetic.
And thinking of pathetic people, Chance couldn't help but feel aghast at the citizens around him. Most of the adults, and a few of the older teens, were already partaking in the Reaping Festival, downing alcohol fast and easily. Already, Chance saw two red faced men trying to hold a conversation but merely falling into hysterical giggles. In another area, Chance saw several working girls – and guys – getting close to drunken men, telling tales of pleasure for money. Chance shook his head at such blatant displays of foolishness.
He wouldn't miss District 1 that much he began to realize.
Krystal hated being lead anywhere, yet she was forced to rely on Layla to guide her with so many people around. While Krystal knew the District by memory, she did not know the movements of everyone in it. Most of the time people got out of the way for her, but on a Reaping Day, when every one was either too busy or too drunk, no one cared to move.
"See you after the Reaping." Layla said, dropping Krystal off at the seventeen year olds section as she left for the eighteen year olds section. Krystal sighed, standing on the fringe of her section right by the walkway to the stage. People gossiped and chatted excitedly around her, most of them making plans for later in the night. A few of them were even drunk. Krystal could care less about celebration, if she could she'd like to head to the Training Center and start preparing for next year's Games.
After about ten minutes, the Reaping began. The mayor walked on stage, much to the crowd's enjoyment, who burst out in applause. On the stage as well were several key members of the District government, the previous Victors who were dressed in gold and wearing their Victor crowns, and the Head Peacekeeper of District 1. It was obvious from the way the mayor spoke that he had already begun participating in the day's festivals, as had the other citizens on the stage, minus the Head Peacekeeper who looked at the others like they were idiots. Years of military experience, and personal experience, had taught him that alcohol consumption was for the weak minded. Anyone with a speck of self-dignity wouldn't demote themselves into a drunken stupor.
Krystal was of the very same mindset and she was happy she couldn't see the mayor making a spectacle of himself. He finished his speech and the reading of the Treaty of Treason, which outlined the reasoning for the Hunger Games. Finally, the usual propaganda film was shown, showcasing the might of the Capitol and the glory that could be gained through the Hunger Games. The crowd cheered when they saw the shadowy outline of a triumphant Victor, standing proud and surrounded by transcendent light.
And then it was time for the main event.
The District's escort appeared on stage, stumbling to make it in one piece given her drunken state. "H-hello District 1! How ya'll doing today!" she screamed too loudly, the microphone screeching from her standing to close. The escort began to giggle. "Sorry about the 'ya'll'! I use to work for District 10! They had the most... most positively, excruciatingly horrendous accents!"
The crowd forgave her with cheers, though Krystal flinched with every sound the escort made. Personally, Krystal thought her high pitched, Capitol accent was worse than anything District 10 had to offer.
"Now I know I don't need to... to - hic - get you folks excited for the Reaping, so let's get right it!" the escort declared loudly. As the crowd cheered, the escort stumbled over to the Reaping bowl and fished out a sheet of paper quickly. She moved back to the microphone, unwrapping the slip quickly. With a quick cough, the name on the paper rolled off her tongue sharp and disfigured by liquor.
"Krystal Avery!"
Krystal gasped, though no one else did. They all knew that Vespa would be volunteering.
"I volunteer!" Vespa's voice rang out as she skipped out of the eighteen year old section. Krystal barely heard it though, lost in her own thoughts instead. She had been Reaped... chosen to participate in the Hunger Games! Suddenly, Krystal felt herself moving from out of her section and towards the stage. As she walked, Krystal noticed that the cheering was replaced with murmuring as people watched her walking towards the stage.
"Excuse me!" Vespa screamed behind Krystal. She turned to face the older girl, her face carefully emotionless. "What do you think you're doing?"
"I was Reaped. I'm going to go fight in the Hunger Games." Krystal replied simply.
"But I volunteered!" Vespa shrieked.
Krystal shrugged. "Well this is awkward.," she said with a faint smile. "Since I don't accept."
Gasps erupted around the yard and beyond it as citizens watched the drama unfold. Unable to see, Krystal could only image the look on Vespa's face filled with rage. Nervously, Peacekeepers began to make their presence known in case of a fight breaking out. The chances of that though were slim, but such a disruption hadn't happened in a while. This was District 1 after all, known for its civility when it came to the Reapings. It wasn't District 2, whose barbaric ways allowed for potential candidates to fight it out on national television.
Suddenly, all eyes began turning to the District escort, the Capitol's representative in the District and the ruler on the matter. The escort visibly tensed up, trying to figure something out through her inebriated mindset. She knew District policy on volunteers and knew that this potential volunteer had been trained and selected by the local government to compete in the Games. But the other Capitolites didn't know that. To them, they would be seeing Krystal as standing by her right to represent the District in the Games. It would be seen as honorable and commendable, unlike here in District 1 where people no doubt wished to bash Krystal's head in for her interference with established protocol.
But the escort knew that it wasn't what the District wanted or expected. The Capitol came first, and the rules it had laid out for the Reapings were clear.
"Well... unfortunately dear..." the escort began, addressing Vespa. "Um... if the Reaped individual does not wish to relinquish her spot then she does not have to. So Krystal, if she wishes it, will represent District 1."
"I do wish it." Krystal said confidently.
"NO!" Vespa shouted, rushing towards Krystal to attack. "This is my Reaping! My chance at glory!"
Krystal was prepared for the attack and threw her arms up to defend herself. The attack didn't last long as Peacekeepers rushed in to break the two apart, though not before Krystal managed to rip out part of Vespa's hair. Vespa was dragged away screeching obscenities at Krystal, promising to kill her if she ever showed her face again. Meanwhile, another delegation of Peacekeepers led Krystal to the stage, offering to help her up.
"Oh stop it!" she shouted at them. "I may be blind but I'm sure as hell not stupid! I know how to walk up stairs!"
The escort recoiled at Krystal's words, able to see her pale eyes better at a close distance. "Oh! You're... you're blind aren't you?" she said.
"Yes I am. You got a problem with that?" Krystal asked defensively.
"N-no! Not at all!" the escort said, thinking frantically that she had made a terrible mistake. "Um... Krystal Avery everyone! You're female tribute for the 77th Hunger Games!"
The response to Krystal was complete silence. The majority of the populace was infuriated that their selected tribute would not be entering the Games, and the few friends that Krystal had were furious that she would even volunteer. The escort ran to the male's drawing bowl, wanting to end the Reaping ceremony. She drew a name quickly, reading it off clearer than she had Krystal's.
"Desmond Oswald!"
"I Volunteer!"
Chance stepped forward from the eighteen year old section with a bemused smirk on his face. He did not know who Desmond was, but he was confident he would not be volunteering. The Peacekeepers quickly rushed to Chance's side, eager to prevent a similar incident. None broke out however and Chance ascended the steps to the stage with grace. The escort smiled happily. "Hello there! What's your name then?"
"Chancellor Mallerion. I prefer Chance though."
"Well Chance, I'm glad you had a chance to volunteer!"
Chance, and the rest of the District, was not amused.
Flustered, drunk, and embarrassed, the escort pushed the two tributes together and bid them to shake hands. "Your tributes for the 77th Hunger Games! Krystal Avery and Chancellor Mallerion!"
Krystal held out her hand for Chance to take, which he did with pleasure. "That was very brave of you, Miss Avery." Chance said.
Krystal shrugged. "More stupid really. But the universe gives you something so why not take it?"
Chance nodded his head. He had never thought much of Vespa, finding her overall attitude insufferable and plain boring. But Krystal, she was different. There was an air of confidence to her that no blind person should have. He knew her from the Academy, but had never talked with her much. Yet now, he couldn't help but feel intrigued by Krystal. She was rather… pretty too with her hourglass figure, strong arms, and rustled dirty blonde hair.
Yes... he might just find his District partner a good companion for the Games.
District 2
Nothing seemed to be working for Griffon Waring on Reaping Day.
His day of all days too! The one day where everything was suppose to be about him! Well... he tried to make everyday about him since he was Griffon, but that didn't mean anything.
"What do you think about this one?" Griffon asked, stepping out of his closet with his newest suit.
Fiona, Griffon's sixteen year old sister, sighed at her brother angrily. He was dressed in the most obnoxious suit she had ever seen. It was checkered black and white, the pants and under shirt far to tight for Griffon to be wearing. The oddest thing about the suit was it had diamond holes in it to show off his flesh, along with a red cape that wrapped around his neck easily. His golden belt held a rather large ruby on it too.
"I think it's perfectly theatrical!" Griffon announced happily. "So showy and sleek! In fact, I think I look a bit like a noble man! People should indulge me by calling me Lord Griffon, don't you think? Ah well, I won't be too fussy about the details!"
"Do you remember that talk we had?" Fiona asked, tone condescending.
Griffon frowned, angry coming over his happy complexion. "I'm not gay."
"But you never hang out with girls!" Fiona insisted.
"There will be time for those after I win the Hunger Games!"
"'Those'?" Fiona asked.
"Must you insist on being an annoying brat all day, Fiona?" Griffon snapped, his tone rising. "I had hoped we could spend quality time together before I go into the Games!"
Griffon paused and forced himself to calm down with breathing exercises. Within moments, he was smiling once more. "Would you be so kind as to help me with my hair, Fiona?" Griffon asked.
Fiona sighed, but relented, beginning the arduous task that was fixing Griffon's hair. He had to have it done in a special manner, all his near white hair blanketed over the left side of his face. It was an odd hairstyle, but the only one that would cover up Griffon's imperfections from a rather nasty training accident with a mace.
"Mom misses you." Fiona stated simply.
It didn't sound like a simple statement to Griffon. He knew his sister would never directly engage in an argument, but Griffon was more than willing. "I bet she does. That's why she's avoided me for the past eight years."
"You've seen her." Fiona said.
"Yes, on the street. Never in person." Griffon spat back, his temper beginning to flare again. "You're doing it all wrong, Fiona!"
"I'm sorry." Fiona responded, like she didn't care at all.
It was to much for Griffon to take, who burst up from his seat at the vanity and began shouting at Fiona. "You're not sorry you pathetic brat! Why don't you just leave and run back to our bitch of a mother like you did all those years ago!"
Fiona, without a word, turned and left her older brother's room. She slammed the door behind her and once her footsteps were heard descending down the stairs did Griffon let lose his rage.
Honestly, how could he possibly believe that he would have an enjoyable afternoon with his sister?! She acted like nothing was wrong, but underneath her facade, Griffon knew that she hated him for his life choices! Choices that she thought stupid! Fiona was a fool and pathetic excuse for a sister, just like his bitch of a mother!
"Griffon." a gruff voice said on the other side of the door.
Griffon's father entered the room before Griffon answered, as usual not carrying about boundaries. He was a gruff man who had little in common with his son, the only thing being this interest in the Games.
"Saw your sister leave." He said.
Griffon rolled his eyes, though nodded his head as well. He waited for his father to say something else, but no other words escaped his lips. Griffon sighed in annoyance, taking it upon himself to speak. "She insisted on talking about mother. I silly topic about a silly woman."
Griffon's father nodded his head, knowing the delicate nature of the subject. "How she doing?" he asked.
"Who?"
"Your mother."
Griffon shrugged. "I honestly could care less about her."
Silence enveloped the two of them, showcasing the weak relationship between the two. It had been like this since the beginning, but only got worse once Griffon's mother left. She had been unhappy with her husband's insistence on training Griffon for the Games, preferring he specialize in something a little less life threatening. In order to full show her protest, she had left Griffon, offering to take him with her and Fiona. Griffon had chosen his father though, the allure of fame and glory of the Games too much for him to resist.
It was a blow that his mother never recovered from and had since stopped communicating with her son.
Griffon's father, without much else to say, turned to leave the room. He stopped before leaving, looking like he wanted to say something encouraging to his son, but stopped before he could. "Reapings start in an hour you know."
"I do."
"Don't be late."
"I'm never late."
His father huffed but left the room without a fuss. As soon as he left, Griffon turned to his vanity and pulled out his eyeliner, placing it carefully around his eyes. It was another eccentricity that Griffon was rather proud of it, finding that it gave him a much more intense, intimidating look.
Once he finished, Griffon allowed himself a moment of reflection. His appearance looked flawless, his personality was in check, and his desire for victory burning hotter than ever before.
This was it. The moment that he had been waiting for his entire life. He had proven himself countless times over, survived the Crucible, and had defeated all the other competition for the spot of tribute. In a few days he would take to the arena, prepared to kill everyone who stood against him.
Griffon's lips moved to form a delicate smile. Glory and fame would soon be his and his alone…
And he would destroy any who dared get in his way.
"My little girl! All grown up and ready to volunteer!"
"Mother, please." Sky Carroll sighed in contempt, though secretly enjoying her mother's fawning nature.
"I'm sorry, sweetie." Sky's mother breathed, wiping her watery eyes. "I'm just so happy for us! And you're going to look gorgeous in this dress!"
Gorgeous, that wasn't something Sky wasn't used to being called. Looking at herself in the mirror, Sky couldn't help but feel a pang of hatred for her body. Six foot, muscled over every inch of her brown body, a square and flat face, and scars from multiple training incidents, Sky felt as though she were the ugliest girl in District 2.
Sky grunted at her moment of weakness. What was beauty compared to strength? Beauty wouldn't make her a Victor, beauty wouldn't save her from the hardships she would face in the arena. Beauty was an abstraction that blinded people and made them weak.
Sky was not about giving into weakness. A hint of that and you were dead in the arena.
After last years debacle with Cyra, District 2 became very careful about who they sent into the Games this year. It hadn't escaped the District's attention that District 2 had become the least popular Career District due to certain incidents in the Games, namely Victor Cato's killing of Katniss Everdeen and Victor Brutus's slaughter of several Capitol favorites in the Third Quarter Quell. Nicolae, in his morphling withdrawal states, hadn't helped much and Cyra being cut down in the Bloodbath was considered a sort of vengeance karma against the District.
So the District solved the problem with the only solution they knew. Use of violence. The trainers from several Academies in the District gathered the potential candidates and began forcing them to fight one another. Griffon Waring scored the position for the male spot, a position Sky thought better suited for someone else, while Sky won the spot for the female tribute.
She knew her winning was hardly what the Trainers had hoped for. She knew the reputation her family had garnered negative attention ever since her mother had been a trainee for the Games. But Sky knew that they were all fools for those thoughts.
"Will Cozen be joining us later?" Sky asked her mother.
Her mother gave her a reprimanding glare. "Cozen is your father and should be addressed as such. And yes, he'll be joining us for the goodbyes I believe. You know your father, always busy with one thing or another."
Sky rolled her eyes as her mother finished cleaning her hair. The only thing that Cozen was ever busy with was illicit activity. He wasn't even legally her father as him and her mother had never married. Genetically yes, Cozen was related to Sky, but in the eyes of the Capitol her mother and Cozen were unmarried. If that's the way the Capitol saw it then Sky was willing to see it that way too. The Capitol's word was final and not to be disobeyed.
Sky's mother finished her hair and left the room, still singing praise for Sky's strength and ability. Sky simply rolled her eyes, knowing how deadly too much praise could be. District 2 had raised far to many tributes with too much pride, eventually leading to their downfall. Sky had no intentions of being like that though; she was better than the others that came before.
After tackling putting on her dress, Sky departed her home quietly. She knew her mother had already left their small house on the edge of the city. Sky looked at it in disgust, knowing that it was the best Cozen could do for them. Her mother didn't work herself, instead spending all her energy on cheering Sky to complete her dream. It wasn't comfortable living, but once Sky was Victor that wouldn't be an issue anymore.
It was still early for the Reapings, District 1 hadn't even started theirs, but Sky always preferred to be early rather than late. She made her way through the city, noticing the post Reaping festivals being set up. Their festival was rather muted compared to the two other Career Districts, just like the District itself. No one participated before the Reapings though, seeing it as disrespectful and taking away from the main event. Besides, District 2 had a reputation to uphold and all of Panem seeing it's citizens drunk on Reaping day wouldn't help. Only idiots like District 1 did that.
"Hey Carroll!" a voice shouted behind Sky. She turned to see who was addressing her so harshly, though lightened up once she saw who it was.
"Jasper." Sky said, offering the boy a small smile. Jasper strutted towards Sky, giving her a simple nod instead of warm embrace. He was well aware that Sky shunned any physical contact that wasn't strictly combat related, but figured he held a special place in Sky's mind. He had been her trainer for the past year, losing his spot to Nicolae last Games. It was still a bitter subject for him and no one brought it up with him unless the wished to be beaten to a pulp.
"I'm glad I found you." Jasper smiled back. "I wanted to wish you luck in the Games. And don't you dare say you don't need luck!"
Sky rolled her eyes. "I need better odds." she replied.
Jasper scoffed playfully. "You're from District 2. The odds are already well in your favor."
Sky laughed lightly, something he hardly ever did. Jasper knew how to make her happy though. "Usually people do this after the Reapings. You know, with the goodbyes and all."
"I'm sure there will be a big crowd though." Jasper replied.
Sky gave him a look. "For me?" she asked incredulously.
"You're popular!" Jasper said, knowing he was making a false argument. "What about Stephen?"
"Are you kidding me with that one?" Sky asked in a mocking tone. Stephen was two years younger than her, though utterly obsessed with her too. One day he had tried to rob her on her way out of the training center, but Sky was much tougher than he anticipated and was beat within an inch of his life as consequence. Three weeks later, after being released from the hospital, Stephen was back on her tail though interested in becoming a Career. Sky knew he'd never make it, but he still served as a nice punching bag in the Academy.
"But really, Jasper," Sky said, returning her focus to him. "Why are you telling me this now?"
"Well, there's something I wanted to talk to you about." Jasper said, lowering his voice. He took Sky by the shoulder, a risk move, and lead her away from the crowds to a side ally. Sky looked at him nervously, not used to the secretive aura that Jasper was giving off.
"What the hell is it?" she demanded. Was he about to admit that he liked her? Was that even a thing? Sky never felt that way about him? She never felt that way about anyone? But why the hell else would he be acting like this?
Jasper paused for a moment, clearly nervous about what he was about to ask. "I don't want you to volunteer." he blurted out.
Sky's eyes widened. "Shit! You do like me!" she said aloud without thought.
Jasper recoiled. "What? No! I-I don't want you to volunteer because I have a way better opportunity for you!"
"What are you talking about?" Sky asked angrily, flustered by her previous outburst. "You're not asking me to be a trainer are you?"
"Of course not!"
"Then what is it?"
"Would you let me speak!" Jasper snapped.
"You're not doing a good job of it!" Sky snapped back, turning to leave. Jasper grabbed her muscular arm though and pulled her back, his eyes fired with intent.
"There's a knew fad sweeping the Capitol right now." Jasper began, "It's very underground as of now but it's becoming a bigger deal each day! They're calling it the Tournament Games."
"The Tournament Games?" Sky said. "Is that basically what it sounds like."
"Basically. Tournament fight to the death situation, all of it conducted in some rich Capitolite's basement or something for the entertainment for a the few privileged."
Sky laughed loudly, clearly concerning Jasper. "And why would I want to give up my spot in the Games for this?" she asked.
"It's good pay."
"When I'm Victor I'll have more money than I know what to do with." Sky replied. She had never been the sharpest tool in the shed, but Sky could tell that these Games were a very bad idea. "Look, I've been training for the Hunger Games by entire life. I'm not going to give that opportunity up just to go fight in some dingy basement for a few people."
"It's a Capitolite's house," Jasper countered. "It's probably a golden basement."
Sky rolled her eyes. "Thanks, but no thanks, Jasper. Why don't you go ask the other trainees who didn't make the cut. I'm sure they'd be thrilled for the opportunity."
She left Jasper without another word, not even turning back to look when he called her name. Honestly, did Jasper really expect her to turn down her ticket into the Games? Her entire life had been centered around this one goal, this one dream. Nothing else had mattered to her than victory in the Hunger Games, her mother's passion had driven her here.
Sky wasn't about to throw eighteen years of training away for nothing. Nor was she going to die in the Games for even less.
Griffon attempted to show up fashionable late, or at least however fashionable he could be for the Reaping. Most of the attention given to him was no doubt due to his outfit, which was the same checkered suit that he had shown Fiona earlier. Sure it was odd, but it stood out and the Capitol would not soon forget it. Plus, District 2 tributes were usually so boring with their Reaping attire. Why not make it interesting?
Most of the District children had already filtered into Justice Yard, eagerly waiting for the Reapings to begin so they could celebrate afterwards. Griffon sighed, suddenly upset that he wouldn't be allowed to participate in the Reaping festival. It was so much fun to dance with other people, socialize into the night, and toast to the Games and the District 2 tributes in them. He then realized that soon everyone in his District would be toasting to him and his mood elevated once more.
As Griffon waited to get his blood drawn for Reaping check in, he noticed a infamous face leading a pack of children through the line.
Amara, late bride to be of Nicolae Viscorian.
It was a scandal that captured the attention of District 2 for a while. During the Victor Tour, Amara had stepped forward as representative for Nicolae, much to the embarrassment of her wealthy family. Dying in the Games was a huge dishonor to a person, usually resulting in a public damnation of that tribute's memory. By associating herself with Nicolae, Amara had drawn the acts of damnation upon herself and thus her family. To avoid this, Amara's family had kicked to the street, forcing the girl to survive on her own. She had done well for herself, serving her District by taking a job at the local orphanage and helping raise children there.
Looking at her now, Griffon could only scoff at how pathetic she was. Amara seem to sense eyes on her and looked up to meet Griffon's eyes. Unlike most people who looked at him, Amara's eyes gave away no sense of discomfort or fear. Why should they? She had dated, fucked, and loved Nicolae, who had been on of District 2's more deadly and crazed tributes.
Griffon was brought back to reality by a sharp prick on his finger. He looked at the women who had taken his blood with rage. "A decent warning would have been nice you foolish woman!" he spat. The woman didn't look offended though and waved him away, grabbing the next child's hand to draw blood.
Almost twenty minutes later the Reapings finally began. The usual procedure was followed, an event with Griffon found extremely tiresome and uninteresting. A dull reading of the Treaty of Treason by their old mayor, an even duller film from the Capitol, and then their overdressed escort began to draw names. Griffon had nothing against flamboyant dress but the Capitolites had no class with their clothing. It was like they found pieces of garbage and were trying to be 'edgy' with it. There was no rhythm, no messages with their fashion.
'Maybe I should bring that up in my interview.' Griffon thought. 'I'm sure they'd love to hear fashion tips from me!'
The escort, excited though professional in manner, was quick to start pulling names from the Reaping bowl. She unfolded the paper and read off the chosen females name, only for another to shout at the same time.
"I volunteer as tribute!"
The female section parted, allowing for Sky Carroll to step out and move towards the stage. The amount of girls who gave her nasty stares was not lost on anyone either. If the District government hadn't threatened serious repercussion for any who interfered, the tributes would be brawling it out at that moment.
A boy next to Griffon scoffed. "So a Carroll finally got in, huh?" he muttered.
"Why wouldn't she?" another boy whispered. "Look at her? She's a fucking mammoth! Ugly like one too, imagine how much hair she's got growing down under."
"No, not that! And that's fucking disgusting!" the first boy hissed. "Don't you know about her mother? She tried to volunteer three times when she was younger, always screaming about how she was going to win the Games! My dad told me she's always been a joke, and now look at her! Using her daughter to fulfill her stupid fantasy. I even heard that her mom and whoever knocked her up are planning on making another baby if Sky dies."
Ignoring the other boys vulgar and unrefined language skills, Griffon was intrigued by the thought. He always knew that part about Sky's history, everyone at the Academy did, but Sky herself didn't seem to acknowledge it. That was probably for the best though, or more likely her parents had brainwashed. The latter was far more likely, knowing Sky. Griffon had never much cared for the girl and her unappreciative manner for appearances. The thought of them being partners disgusted Griffon.
'No class or care for appearances, disgusting.' Griffon thought bitterly. 'Hopefully she'll kill over in the Bloodbath, just like Cyra.'
Griffon was so distracted by that pleasant thought that he almost forgot to volunteer. His voice rang out clear and confident though when his time came, stalking out onto the path towards the stage with confidence. He ran towards the stage like a dancer, pouncing up the stairs on his toes, and doing a full spin when he landed next to the escort. His red cape spun with him, making him look like a blur of red. Griffon suddenly stopped spinning and faced the audience, a large smile on his face and his tongue sticking out of his mouth. The younger children laughed at the sight while the older children and adults scrunched their faces in disbelief.
"Who the hell ok'd this guy to represent District 2?" one girl in the crowd asked her friend.
The friend shrugged in response. "I don't know, but they must be a fucking idiot."
Griffon made a move to the microphone to make his speech, but the escort grabbed it first. "And who might you be?" she asked politely.
"Griffon Waring! Proud citizen and representative of District 2! I want you all to know how honored I am to-"
"Ok then! Let's save the speech for your interview with Caesar, shall we?" The escort interrupted, clearly annoying Griffon who's pale face turned red. This wasn't the escort's first year working District 2, and she knew that these tributes liked to give long, unnecessary speeches. No one wanted to listen to those. "Now then District 2," the escort continued. "Your tributes for the 77th Hunger Games, Sky Carroll and Griffon Waring! Shake hands you two!"
Sky and Griffon faced each other reluctantly and shook hands quickly, neither of them bothering to produce a smile. Both of them despised the other for petty, superficial reasons and the Games weren't about to change that.
"Happy Hunger Games!" the escort's voice rang. "And may the odds be ever in your favor!"
'They always will be.' both District 2 tributes thought at the same time.
First Reaping chapter is complete! Hope you guys enjoyed and will review with your thoughts! I always feel like I never do the Careers justice as I like writing about the downtrodden and repressed Districts.
About the previous Games for any newcomers: Peeta died earlier in the 74th Games, leaving Katniss and Cato in the final two. Cato managed to kill Katniss, claiming the title of Victor. The 75th Games were the same as canon with the same previous Victors (Haymitch went in by himself) and Brutus ended up winning them. I kept it similar to canon because even if Snow was using the Quarter Quell as a chance to kill Katniss, I feel confident that at least one of those cards which listed the condition of the Quarter Quell would send Victors back into the Games. Honestly... the point the Capitol was trying to make made sense to me, though Snow did a horrendous job of keeping it on track (no thanks to the rebels and Plutarch).
Up Next: District 3 and District 4
Tributes: Watt/Amélie and Ansel/Brielle