Hello I am back! Please enjoy the second chapter that finally will see the light! Credit to my beta Loving_Leta for the wonderful job of course 3
It usually doesn't take a long time for the train to reach the Capitol. After all, District 1 was the closest District to the Capitol. His eyes turned to watch through the window and Theseus couldn't help but sigh when he saw the familiar sight of the city that had taken many things from him. There was this resentment that bubbled up in his chest but he swallowed it down. He knew he couldn't do anything about that feeling so he did his best to ignore it.
Theseus decided to leave his compartment. He needed to get some fresh air even though the train offered him many things other than that. He strolled through the train and observed the interior design. Even though District 1 was known for its luxury, it was always unsettling to him when he went to the Capitol with their glamour and eccentric taste. Theseus knew the Capitol could afford all of it because the Districts in Panem provided them with all the goods they needed. Without them, the Capitol wouldn't be able to function. They would basically a dead city without their support system.
If we could cut the support system from it, there would be a way to defeat the Capitol.
Theseus stopped dead in his tracks, frozen by his own thoughts. He shook his head, trying to get rid of such tempting ideas. He knew there was a rebellion but he also knew how it ended. Even though it was just an idea that crossed his mind, playing with that possibility was still too risky. He couldn't let that distract him.
Theseus was about to hurry up to the bar car when he noticed the door of a compartment opened slightly. Curiosity won over him and he approached the compartment avoiding the most sound and kept as quiet as he could (being stealthy was something he could never really master). The sight that greeted him was surprising. His eyes widened as he saw various footages a mass of people. In front of all the footage, there stood a peacemaker who looked troubled. His heart was beating rapidly. It was almost like there was a rebellion. Another one. It was hard to see but he noticed in one of footages there was a name of district he knew. It was District 3. He couldn't stop the gasp from coming out of his mouth. The sound of his gasp alerted the peacemaker who caught him in the act and immediately closed down footages.
Theseus gave the peacemaker a sheepish grin, avoiding his direct gaze awkwardly. The peacemaker looked unamused and glared at him. Not even a second later, the door immediately closed on his face, Theseus jumped back in surprise. He swore that he could hear a slight snarl coming from the peacemaker before the door was slammed shut.
Theseus took a step back and let out a long stressful sigh. He knew the District 3 was very involved in the rebellion, even one of the strongest forces, but he didn't know there was another move of a rebellion from the District 3.
Theseus didn't know what to do with this new information. It felt overwhelming especially after his previous train of thought. He shook his head slightly and decided he would think about it later. He resumed his stroll until he reached the bar car.
When Theseus enters the bar car, there was a familiar figure. The District 1 advisor was there, casually drinking her glass of wine calmly, alone. Her only companions being the bucket filled with ice and a bottle of wine. Vinda noticed him and smirked. She gestured him over toward the empty seat across the table. He reluctantly sat on the empty seat because he knew it was better not to agitated the advisor but the silence that followed made him want to leave the bar car immediately. He always felt uncomfortable around Vinda. She was unreadable and frustratingly unpredictable. He could never know what the advisor thinking.
The chuckles coming from Vinda startled him momentarily. "Why don't you take a glass and drink with me, Theseus?" Vinda smiled, her eyes looking thoroughly amused by how uncomfortable he was and seemed.
"I'd prefer not to drink Vinda. I don't want to get a hangover when there is a banquet awaiting us soon." Theseus rejected her offer quickly. The advisor chuckled at that.
"Fuh.. that is a wise decision I suppose." She sipped her wine again. Her eyes on him once again, examining his appearance. "You still look terrible though and I don't want one of the best District 1 Victors looking like that."
"I always look my best at any events, Vinda." Theseus shrugged. "You know that Seraphina's prep team would take care of it." He glared at her before continuing. "Also, stop calling me a kid. You know I am not. I was already 24 years old for months now." He rolled his eyes, and couldn't stop the annoyance that leaked in his tone.
"You're still one of the youngest here." Vinda shrugged apathetically. "For me you are essentially a kid." She emphasised. She tapped the table with her index finger impatiently. "You still know nothing yet, Theseus Scamander."
"I have already been a Victor for seven years. Knowing nothing would be impossible." Theseus replied, and gave her unamused look. He wished he could remain innocent and ignorant even, but in this cruel world where kids are thrown into games of certain death, it was just not possible.
"Oh, that's interesting expression you're making." Vinda sniggered slightly. "You're not as easy as your almost sister-in-law Porpentina, but there is a temper I see in there. A temper that could possibly burn everyone if someone carelessly lit it."
Theseus gaped at Vinda's amused expression. She was truly unbelievable. He couldn't understand her at all. "I don't understand you at all, Vinda." He voiced his though to the amused advisor. "Even though I've already known you for seven years."
"Well first of all, I am never trying make you understand." Vinda rested her face on her knuckles, her voice laced with a slight of amusement. "Second, I am not your friend. I am an advisor for District 1, which happens to be your district." She pointed out. "My job simply make the tributes from your district always appeal to the citizen." She smirked. "So the odds would be in District 1 favour."
"Still I wonder, why did you choose to be an advisor?" Theseus finally asked the question that had been bugging him for a while. "You're different from other advisors. I heard this was your dream job. While other advisors consider it an honour to be an advisor, it is usually not something they wished to be from the beginning. I don't understand."
"That's interesting." Vinda frowned curiously. "It's not a common knowledge that everyone knows about me. Not even Seraphina and Percival. Where did you hear it from?" Theseus tried to not flinch under her scrutiny but then she broke into giggles suddenly. "Well that doesn't matter does it? I will answer you for the sake of your child-like curiosity." She studied his expression as she continued. "I've been watching the Hunger Games since I was young. Thus who survives are mostly the people who have the best resources from sponsors. Though, having this career give the district tributes even more advantage." She shrugged, nonchalant.
"I know I can give the tributes the best resources as long as they listen to me. That's why I decided to be an advisor. There is no grand reason, simply for my own amusement." Vinda sipped her wine once more. "The story I sold for you seven years ago worked well after all, right?"
Theseus couldn't deny that, sighing. "Yes It worked."
"The others advisors keep saying things like unique tributes and such but really," Vinda scoffed. "No matter how unique it is, if they, the Capitol citizens, are not appealed by them there would be no point to do so." She pointed her index finger toward him. "And you are one of my successful examples, Theseus."
Theseus flinched at the word example and glared. "Is that it? Tributes and victors are your doll to play with?" He gritted his teeth, trying to hold back the anger bubbled up inside him.
Vinda chuckles and gulps down the rest of her wine. "Maybe. Tributes are people who need my help to survive and Victors are people who survived because my help. Regardless what you feel, that is the truth, Theseus Scamander." She set the empty glass down on table and looked at him right in the eyes. "Even the one who dies usually survives until almost the end. I really give my best to help you all survive. That's something you can't deny no matter what." Her grin sent chills to his spine. She stood up and checked her watch. "We are going to arrive in few minutes. I will check on the others and you, should take care of Porpentina. Make sure she doesn't make any unnecessary fuss." Vinda waggled a finger at him suggestively.
Theseus gave out a long sigh. "I understand."
"That's nice to hear. You have always been a good kid." Vinda smiled. She turned her back walked away but stopped and looked over her shoulder. "Ah, I always wondered how a good boy like you ended up becoming the well-known Playboy of the Capitol. Are you going to sleep around this time too?"
Theseus had to stop himself from wincing at the mention of his reputation. "That's none of your business, Vinda Rosier." He drawled angrily.
"Do I hit your nerve?" She wondered out aloud, arching one of her eyebrows. "That's an interesting reaction coming from you." Vinda gave him a quiet smile and turned her back. "Remember to look out for Porpentina." She said as she left the bar car, closing the door behind her.
Theseus stared at the closed door. He meant go outside to get some fresh air but instead he had gotten a headache over that footage and the enigmatic advisor, Vinda Rosier. He gritted his teeth, remembering her words and he knew she was not wrong. Even though the reason why she became an advisor was disturbing, she knew what she was doing, and that was why most of District 1 tributes were always the last ones to the end.
It made him frustrated but he had to admit there was truth in her words.
Theseus stood up. He had no time to be wallowed in Vinda's words, her reminder of his reputation or about the footages. He would think about that later. He composed himself before making a haste move towards Tina's compartment.
"Tina, it's time." Theseus said he pushed the door of her compartment open. Tina gave him annoyed look, squinting at him.
"You didn't need to remind me at all, Thes." She stood up from the bed. "I know, I can see it from the window." she pointed out.
"Well," Theseus rubbed his chin, pretending he was thinking of other possibilities "You could have been asleep."
"You know I wouldn't have."
"Yes, I know."
"It was probably Rosier who told you to check on me or something similar." Tina suggested, and narrowed her eyes at him.
"You are correct but I also don't want to leave the train alone without you." Theseus grinned teasingly. "C'mon stop glaring at me and erase that frown from your face. We have to play our part after all."
Tina stared at him for awhile and he let the smile intact on his face. Not long after, she sighed. "I know, I know." She pulled her cheeks and forced a smile. "Look, now I smiled. Alright?"
Theseus laughed. "Whatever you say, Tina. Let's go." He ruffled her hair affectionately and was immediately slapped away by Tina.
"Stop doing that."
"It's a habit, Tina."
"I know but stop."
"You can't stop a reflex, Porpentina" Theseus chuckles watching her face as he used her full name.
Tina was unamused, knowing very well he was messing with her and scoffed. "You're an ass, Theseus Scamander." She shot at him.
"I have a nice ass though."
Tina rolled her eyes and smiled slightly in amusement. "Fine, fine. No need to be cheeky. You won, Thes. Let's go."
"Understood." He grinned.
They exited the train with a lighter mood. There was a commotion and they realised there were other Districts that had arrived at the same time as them. Those districts were District 2 and 4. Theseus couldn't help but feel amused at the irony. Technically all the career districts were here. District 1 and 2 were known as the career district since they trained their children to survive the Hunger Games. While District 4 didn't train their children specifically, they were already taught on how to survive in the water, also mastered weapons or tools needed to capture all the fish. They were the non-official career. Their victors number still high enough but lower than both District 1 and 2. Fate sure loved to make these kind of jokes.
"Oh-ho, Theseus Scamander and Porpentina Goldstein. What an amazing coincidence that we meet once again and here of all places!"
Both him and Tina turned towards the source of the voice. Behind them, there was a familiar figure, (and not a nice one in their eyes) stood behind them. It was Ruby Gibbson.
Ruby had a long, dark wavy hair and cold blue eyes that was always held condescending at the people around her. Not to mention her loose-lipped mouth, that gave nothing but trouble most of the time. And yet, she was one of the victors of the Hunger Games.
He supposed there would always be some kind of balance for being good in one thing.
"There is no coincidence. It is what it is. After all, this is a scheduled banquet, all of us victors unfortunately have to attend it." Tina rolled her eyes.
"Still with your sharp-mouth I see, Thunderbird." Ruby spat, glaring at her.
"Don't you know," Tina smirked. "That's my brand and people love it instead your loose-lipped mouth."
Ruby deliberately ignored Tina. In the corner of his eyes he could see Tina's smirk grew even wider for making Ruby loose in the argument. Theseus couldn't help but let out an amused snort. Ruby glared at him.
Theseus just shrugged in return. "If you could just let us go, that would be nice. We would really appreciate all Tina was well-known for her sharp-mouth and harsh comebacks. It's your own fault for picking a fight with her." He glanced at the annoyed figure far behind her. "And your advisor already called you which means you should listen and pay attention. You know that victors have tight schedules."
Ruby scoffed. "If you say so, playboy of the Capitol." She smirked as he narrowed his eyes. "We should meet again in the banquet."
Theseus stopped Tina before she could reply. "Let's not, shall we? I am not particularly fond of you, Ruby."
"Such hurtful words coming from the sweet smooth-talker" Ruby said, feigning despair as she placed a hand over her heart dramatically. "Or at least that is what the Capitol citizen said." She smirked, obviously smug that she could get him annoyed.
"I am sweet to the one who deserves it." Theseus smiled politely. "Unfortunately, you're not included in the list."
Ruby narrowed her eyes but Theseus kept the smile intact on his face. She clicked her tongue and turned on her heels, leaving them behind. He shook his head in amusement. He wondered how she was the one who picked to start fight but was not ready to be beaten. Beside him, Tina was laughing. Theseus rolled his eyes.
"Stop laughing," He bumped her shoulder slightly. "We really have tight schedule, Tina. We have to hurry."
"I know, I know." She said as she slapped his arm playfully "Let's go, Thes."
"Sure." He snorted.
They strolled down the platform, walking toward their designated transportation that would bring them to their residence. It didn't take a long time for the citizen of the capitol to notice the appearance of the victors. Theseus sighed, preparing himself mentally and took a deep breath. As he opened his eyes again, he had already stepped into his images. He controlled his expression carefully. The dark, brooding images made him look mysterious but also the sweet smooth-talker whose rare smile stole the hearts of the Capitol citizens. He gave the citizen a slight smile that caused so much noise and security to act. From afar, Vinda already signalled for them to hurry up. He turned to the mass of people, gave them an apologetic smile and waved at them.
Tina snorted when the mass reacted in dramatic way. "What a bunch of fools."
"You're not wrong, Tina." Theseus said. "But could you please stop looking so displeased for me? Your image is one of grace and power. Not of someone who is trying to pick a fight despite their well-known sharp-mouth. "
Tina didn't say anything but he knew she already changed her demeanor completely. The one that the citizens of the Capitol expect. Theseus let out a relieved sigh. They reached their designated transport that would bring them to their residence when that thing happened.
Theseus didn't mean for it to happen. He was merely looking around when his eyes caught her eyes. She had a wavy long brown hair, brown eyes and brown skin. He absent-mindedly noticed how beautiful she was. He recognised her but couldn't think of the name. He knew she was one of the victors but he couldn't recall her name.
Theseus was entranced for a moment when something he didn't expect happened. Those brown eyes steeled and held so much hostility towards him. He was so surprised by their intensity that when she looked away, and promptly broke their exchanged gaze and disappeared to one of the designated transports, he still stuck staring at the empty space where the woman had stood seconds before.
"Thes?" Tina's concerned voice bringing him out of reverie. She looked at him in worry. "What is it? What did you see?"
Theseus didn't answer for a beat before replying. "Nothing. Nothing at all, Tina." He forced a smile to assure her everything was alright.
Tina shot him a look of disbelief but he didn't pay attention to it. Theseus couldn't help but remember that hostility. It was familiar and full of disdain. It was the same one like James had before he killed him.
That realisation shook him. He could feel Tina's left eye was on him, obviously concerned but he couldn't respond to it. His mind was completely taken over by those eyes and the hostility its held. He was confused. What did he do to her to get the end of that hostility. It disturbed him to the core.
Even as the transport moved, those eyes kept occupied his mind.
When Theseus and Tina entered their residence, they were greeted by Percival and Seraphina. Percival with his black slicked hair and suit while Seraphina wrapped her blonde hair up in silver turban and dressed in outfits that had authentic mark of her design, eccentric yet very much elegant. Seraphina smiled at them.
"Theseus, Tina. Welcome" She greeted, as she while approached them. "I hope you two had a nice ride here."
"It's all fine, Seraphina." Tina shrugged nonchalantly.
Seraphina's eyes landed on him and Theseus smiled stiffly. "It's fine I guess." She arched an eyebrow at his stiff response but didn't pry more.
"Alright," Seraphina clasped her hands together. "I know both of you just arrived but I can't let you slack because we have strict schedule to follow and I still have to check the other district one victors." Their prep teams entered their residence on her cue. "I already give them a specific instruction for both of your makeup along with your tux and dress for the banquet." She turned to Tina and sighed. "Don't be mad when you see the dress alright, I chose it with careful consideration."
"What do you-" Tina never managed to finish her question as Seraphina turned her back to her and walked out their residence followed with a series of click from her heels. He and Tina were at a loss of words.
"What was that…." Theseus muttered.
"I don't know either." Tina responded.
Percival's chuckles pulled them out of their reverie. "Sera has been under stress for a while and today's strict schedule didn't help, obviously. That's why she is in a hurry and didn't explain more on the subject." He shot Tina an almost apologetic smile. "You will see what she meant when you see the dress, but please keep in mind, really she did choose it with consideration to reach your liking but," He rubbed his neck uncomfortably "Sera also need Vinda's approval."
With just one mention of the advisor, Tina was twitching. She opened her mouth, about to say something but a familiar voice stopped her.
"Perce!" Seraphina's voice cut through from outside.
"And she called me," Percival turned his back and glanced over his shoulder, giving them a slight apologetic smile. "See you two later at the banquet." He walked out left them alone with the makeup team.
Theseus exchanged glances with Tina who mirrored his baffled expression and commented. "After years of knowing them and yet I still get baffled with their every action."
"Me too," Tina chuckled, amused by the whole ordeal. "But I got to know them only for around a year now. You always been close with them since you become a victor. Do you mean they were always like that?"
"Clear but also abrupt?" Theseus asked back in amusement. Tina nodded. "Well, the answer is yes." He breathed a laugh, remembering the antics, or more precisely the eccentricities of his mentor and stylist. "The Capitol acknowledged their dating for a reason." He breathed a laugh and shook his head slightly.
It also made Percival almost untouchable because of how he clearly loved their relationship in public's eyes. Seraphina Picquery, the most well-known designer of the Capitol dating the Victor of the 60th Hunger Games, Percival Graves. It was almost like a princess and a prince found their way together. Their love story was as popular as his own reputation and as long as the public satisfied, the president wouldn't bother to interfere.
Theseus sighed. There was no point of mulling over it. Tina gave him a concerned look. It was obvious there was a question on tip of her tongue but right now was not the right moment especially with their prep teams were here. He exchanged glance with Tina. "Since we still have schedule to catch, let's stop talking now." There was an unspoken, we'll talk later, hanging in the air between them. Tina understood and nodded in response.
Theseus turned to the prep team and gave them a slight smile. "Let's go down to the business, shall we?"
Their prep teams nodded in agreement. Tina's prep team ushered her to her room and he was ushered by his prep team to his room. As soon as they were in their room, his prep team basically told him to strip down and leave him only with underwear. He was used to this as it was a yearly occurrence but he still seemed to get uncomfortable by the whole thing.
"Nice, Mr. Scamander." One of the preps team smiled. "You take care of your nails pretty well. You give me an easy time. You have my gratitude."
"You're welcome, Len." Theseus smiled slightly as he let the man trim his nails. The other two, Alex and Kat, were preparing the tux he would wear and makeup to apply on him. As they did it, the three of them started to complain about various things that usually happened and he was about to tune off from the conversation until a certain complain piqued his interest. Alex was complaining how hard it was to get a new set of computers despite how he had ordered it two weeks ago.
Theseus could feel his heart beating rapidly against his ribs. His mind raced to make the connection, trying to recall which district handled the technology. It came with clarity that District 3 was the one that handled it. The same district he saw in the footages. He couldn't help himself but dare; dare to hope that there was rebellion, that there would be away to reform the government of Panem, to overthrow the current president.
"Mr. Scamander?"
Theseus snapped out of his reverie. He composed himself and looked up. Alex had his tux resting on his arm and he wore a confused look. "Yes, Alex?"
"This is your tux." Alex handed the tux to him. The tux colour was not his usual black and white style. It was midnight blue with black pointed lapel and combined midnight blue waistcoat and black bow tie. He arched his eyebrow in question and asked Alex.
"Is there a particular reason for the midnight blue tux?"
"It's to match with Ms. Goldstein's dress." Alex answered with chuckles. "Her dress is the same colour. According to Ms. Picquery, because both you and Ms. Goldstein are known for your sibling-like relationship. Having similar dress code would be better publicity and for Ms. Rosier to approve it."
"Do I want to know what her dress looks like?" Theseus wondered out aloud as he wearing his tux.
Kat suddenly broke into laughter. "I don't think you want to know about it, Mr. Scamander. Ms. Goldstein would detest the dress, I am sure."
"That's not reassuring." Theseus muttered as he buttoned his tux. He approached the mirror and turned himself around to make sure nothing looked amiss.
"Now, it's my time to shine." Kat clasped her hands from behind him. She gestured him to sit on the chair as she put down her makeup box on the makeup table. She studied his reflection in the mirror before turning to his real face. "You sure look like a mess. Not that it makes you any less handsome but the dark circles under your eyes are bigger and more noticeable than before, and..." She turned around his cheek. "Your complexion is paler. You should get more sleep and do more activities under the sun."
Not that he didn't want to get more sleep but he couldn't because nightmares apparently loved him more than dreams. Theseus couldn't mention it of course so he just listened to Kat's rant about how he should get a decent amount of sleep for the sake of his skin as she applying the concealer to hide his dark circles. Meanwhile, Alex was trying to tame down his brown curly hair with gel.
Once they finished, Theseus studied his reflection in the mirror. He didn't look like he was tired or pale. Kat had done a good job in hiding the dark circles and return some colour to his face. His hair coiffed nicely by Alex. He let out a breath of relief. He wouldn't have to listen to Vinda's lecture now that he looked fine. He stood up and thanked his prep team before walking out his room. He glanced at Tina's room which there was no sign she was about to get out of anytime soon. His prep team excused themselves as they had to report to Seraphina.
Theseus was left alone in the living room of the residence, his head filled with thoughts. His mind was still reeling at the probability of a rebellion going on. The thing his prep teams mentioned and the footages he saw. It had to be something right? It couldn't be any coincidence. At least that was what he hoped because he also knew how strong the regimes of the current president were.
Theseus was deep inside his thoughts when a sound of heels snapped him out of his train of thoughts. He turned around only to be greeted by Tina's glare. Her only functional eye was barely holding out her anger and he could see why she was angry. It was her outfit for the banquet. He examined it.
Tina wore a midnight blue slip dress, a collar necklace holding a white flower and blue jewel, a pair of earrings that correlated with the necklace, a blue eyepatch with a white flower ornament and a blue stiletto covered with various flower ornaments. Her usual neat and short hair became wavy.
In a flash, Theseus knew it was actually a good outfit for one theme but he knew how much Tina hated wearing a slip dress. She didn't hate dresses per se but she always preferred the long sleeved dress or the formal dress. Slip dresses were too revealing for her taste and Seraphina knew that. It was obvious this was Vinda's influence. No wonder she apologised in advance.
"You're about to lose your cool." Theseus stated simply.
"Obviously."
"But you didn't take your anger on anything. I supposed since your prep team left with the laughs."
"Nope," Tina chuckles. "I didn't because Seraphina actually expected me to be angry and give me a way to make Rosier angry."
That didn't sound good for Theseus. "What did Seraphina do?"
Tina pointed at the eyepatch on her eye. "This is not actually what Rosier wants." She chuckles slightly, probably satisfied because she knew it would make the advisor angry. "She wanted me to cover the scar completely but I don't want to hide my scar especially with my eye already being blindsided. It's just dumb to hide it. Seraphina told the prep team to give me a choice between that and the eyepatch. You can tell what my choice was."
"That's clever," Theseus shook his head slightly, amused. "Vinda hate it when no one consult her when there is a change and she would not be able to scold you at the banquet either since it could damage her reputation and District 1 in general."
"Exactly," Tina exclaimed. "That feels like a perfect revenge. I have to thank Seraphina later."
"You can do that at the banquet." Theseus agreed. "Also don't worry, it will be different from last time where you were the victor. This year, even when you attract some attention it will only be temporary. The main attention will be on the current victor."
Tina didn't say a word before a sad smile appeared on her face. "Experience?"
"Experience." He affirmed with a slight smile.
Theseus stood up and straightened his tux. He offered Tina a hand to help her walk, so she wouldn't accidentally step on the dress. Their transport would be already waiting down there.
With no way to avoid it, Theseus only can hope the banquet would go smoothly.
As soon as they arrived at the banquet, they had to deal with a horde of people. Theseus was uncomfortable with how close some of the people were. He also had to deal with people who kept complimenting him for his anything. Either his face, his eyes, his hair, his tux or even his ears. He would never understand their obsession with appearance.
In the corner of his eye, Theseus could see Tina was also dealing with groups of people but it seemed different with him who tried to be polite and charming, she was barely polite and instead she jabbed them casually which fortunately people saw as jokes and just her living up with her reputation as the sharp-mouthed victor.
Theseus excused himself at just the right time. Two familiar figures entered the scene. He sighed in relief. Percival and Seraphina immediately stole their attention immediately. He expected that since it kept happening for years. He often wondered how the Capitol citizens still managed to find them fascinating. He didn't complain since it always helped him avoid people in the banquet through the years.
"Thes."
Theseus jolted out from his mind. Tina nudged his shoulder again and smirked. "What do you have in mind? The great fighter Theseus get surprised too easily."
"Nothing important. Just something amusing." Theseus shrugged. "I was caught by a surprise more because of your sudden nudge. You are still as stealthy as ever, Tina."
"That's kind of my specialty, because what kind of archer would make a noise when they hunt?" Tina grinned. "Thought it was also because you used to insist on playing hide-and-seek at the nearby forest."
"I remember that." Theseus said as he shook his head in amusement. "You and Newt were particularly hard to find. Both of you can really be quiet if you wanted. I always find little queen first before either of you."
"Newt taught me" Tina reminisced. "Since animals can get startled by sudden noise, he told me how to approach them soundlessly. It kind of stick on me. So except I mean it I won't make any noise."
"How lucky." Theseus chuckles. "I am sucks at being stealthy because….." He trailed off as his eyes caught Vinda whose gaze landed towards Tina who stood beside him. Even from afar he could tell that Vinda was angry. "Tina…. Errr try to blend in or get out of here. Vinda looks like she would storm here, but within the crowd she wouldn't dare. It would take too much attention."
Instead of immediately blending in with the crowd, Tina gave the advisor a smug smirk which promptly made Vinda angrier. Theseus nudged her shoulder, indicated her to go already before Vinda decided that enough it was enough. She gave him a pat on the arm before blending within the crowd.
Theseus could feel Vinda's glare on him from afar and he didn't want to deal with her. He took a step back and turned away. His priority was avoiding Vinda while keeping his eyes on Tina.
Theseus took few step backs, trying to find the best place to keep his eyes on Tina when he accidentally hit someone with his back. He scrambled to apologise and turned his back when he was taken aback by who he had stumbled into.
It was the same girl who had given him that look and Theseus couldn't forget those eyes after all. She wore a magenta-coloured dress, her wavy hair being let on with two braids being tied together from both sides. Her earrings glinted. She was beautiful. Very beautiful. And Theseus Scamander felt entranced once more.
Her expression was one of surprise; like she couldn't believe she had stumbled into him of all people in the victory banquet. But that was just for a moment. The shadows of surprise change back into the same kind of disdain he had seen the first time their eyes met and Theseus could feel his stomach churn. It bothered him so much. What did he do to her to deserve the end of that feeling?
The girl was about to leave when the crowds pushed both of them and kind of trapped them together on the same spot. She looked annoyed at that fact, even openly huffing which made him arch his eyebrow in curiosity. There was a question hanging on the tip of his tongue that he really wanted to ask. What did I do to you? But it never came out and they awkwardly stood together in silence.
The minutes that passed felt like hours for Theseus. He couldn't stomach the silence that hung between them. He had to break it one way or another.
"Err….." He started awkwardly. "Good evening, Miss."
She didn't budge, not even moving a little. It was as if he didn't exist. Theseus could just zip his mouth shut but he couldn't because of the nagging feeling of wanting to know about the glares he had received from her. But first he had to be polite and start the conversation.
"My name is Thes-"
"I know who you are." She cut him off and gave him a side eye. "You're Theseus Scamander. The playboy of the capitol. No one can miss your entrance, Mr. Scamander."
And that stung. Even though he knew that was the reputation he had garnered, but every time someone mentioned it, he had to consciously stop himself from flinching. Instead, he forced himself to breathe out a laugh and smile, even though it felt hard to smile. "Is that so?"
He didn't know what she saw in his eyes but she looked startled for a moment before composing herself again looking away. It confused him but she seemed to be determined not to look at him and he didn't want to push her away.
Theseus didn't expect her to talk anymore but then he started mentioning things he saw in the banquet. At this point he just wanted to fill the silence between them. It was not like there was no noise but that noise was not enough to break that silence between them.
He mentioned the outfits, what type of dress or formal wear they wore, the headdress, wigs and even the ornaments. He didn't really know what he was talking about but he could hear a tiny amused snorts and sometimes when he quipped something about the non matching colour for the wigs and dresses. It felt like a small victory for him. For once he didn't make her angry or annoyed.
Theseus felt strange though. He only knew from their exchanged glances in the station today. Based on that, he knew she was one of the victors of the hunger games and she looked familiar but he couldn't recall her name. To be fair, he never bothered to really remember any victors name, just a few that either aggravated him or the ones that he considered decent and become acquaintance. Others, he didn't really remember.
"You sure know so much about the fashion of the Capitol."
That startled Theseus. He glanced at her to make sure she was talking to him. One of her eyes was on him, it held both curiosity and disdain. It was such a mixed feeling. Not sure how to deal with those feelings but he answered her anyway.
"Seraphina used to talk about fashion out aloud, especially to the tributes. Since she wanted to give them the best, she usually ended up offered so many options." He chuckled slightly. "Let's just say I paid attention."
She snorted at that. "Paying attention at someone who enables things like the Hunger Games. Unbelievable." Her brown eyes narrowed at him, it was judgement he recognised. "I guess being part of the career district make people very lenient to the Capitol."
She immediately turned her face forward again but her words bothered him. It sounded like she had a problem with the career district but he wondered why. He tried to remember the other district that arrived with them. There were two other districts, District 2 and District 4. With the way on how heated she was with the careers, he could only guess she was from the latter one. Even though her district was known as the non-official career.
Theseus considered his words carefully before responding to her statement. "I would not deny that. In a way, Seraphina did enable the games." She scoffed and rolled her eyes.
"Thanks, captain obvious."
"But without Seraphina, I would have had a hard time gaining a sponsor. In the end, she really was giving her best so the tributes under her would be given the best resource." He finished, ignoring the scoff.
She sighed. "Isn't that naive of you?"
"Maybe," Theseus acknowledged. "But at least I want to believe in the years I get to know her. Even though it sounded naive." He smiled slightly at her.
She narrowed her eyes. "Of course a career can say that. Trained to kill since you were young, a district with nice relationship with the Capitol." A venom-like sound laced in her voice as she continued. "Volunteered to the game for fame and glory. What kind of insanity-"
Theseus didn't let her finish as the words rolled from his tongue. "But I didn't"
"Huh?"
"I didn't volunteer because I wanted to." The memory crossed in his mind in a flash, on the day of the reaping. "I had to. In order to protect my brother."
She was stunned as he continued. "I was well-known for that but as the years passed…." He shrugged and forced a smile. "Of course my current reputation overshadowed it." He couldn't stop the bitterness that laced in his voice.
She still didn't say anything, as if the information hadn't yet sunk in her mind.
"I am not going to deny your words of tributes that volunteered for fame and glory because they exist." He sighed as he remembering a few tributes he had to mentor. "Even though I don't understand why their life meant nothing compared to fame and glory but my point is," He stared right into her brown eyes, desperation for understanding traced inside of his own blue ones. "No one is truly the same, please hold your judgement until you truly get to know them."
I want you to know that I am not like that.
Theseus didn't know why he was so desperate to make her understand. He never was this vulnerable to anyone outside of his family, and even then it was still rare in between. But here he was, accompanied by a distant sounding music and the sound of people talking from the crowd as they exchanged glances.
At long last she sighed. "It won't change my opinion about careers nor about yours, Theseus Scamander."
Theseus should have expected that and turned his gaze downwards. He bit his lip and swallowed the lump in his throat. He knew that people wouldn't try to understand him, especially with his reputation. They only knew his superficial image that was created and yet why he was still trying and showing part of his real self to an essential stranger, he did not know.
He was about to clear his throat before excusing himself but she surprised him with her words.
"Not yet at least."
Theseus raised his head up quickly. She was biting her lip, looking unsure of her own words but continued. "I don't find any reason to believe you, but then again…. You sounded different from what I've heard from rumours. I will see it for myself whether you are too much of a good liar or actually being truthful."
Theseus couldn't resist the soft smile that blossomed on his face. "Thank you."
"What do you thank me for?"
"Just, thanks."
She looked at him before gave out a long sigh in defeat. "You're impossible."
Theseus chuckled at that. "I am quite sure my family will agree with you in that part." He pondered a bit before asking. "What's your name? It feels weird for you to know my name but I don't know yours."
She was about to tell him when a familiar, yet unwelcomed, voice interrupted them.
"Theseus Scamander and Leta Lestrange. What an interesting sight."
Both of them turned toward the source of voice. There stood a blond-haired man with different coloured eyes. He wore a smile on his face but if anyone noticed, the smile never reached his eyes.
"President Grindelwald….." Theseus muttered in surprise.
"Hello Mr. Scamander, Miss Lestrange" Grindelwald greeted. His eyes studied both of them before the fake smile showed up again. "I hope you two enjoying the 74th Victory Banquet."
"We are, of course we are. Right, Leta?" Leta didn't answer but nodded in confirmation.
Grindelwald arched one of his eyebrows, looking almost amused at his answer. "Is that so?" He breathed out light chuckles and turned his attention to the tense-looking Leta. "May I borrow your date for a bit? There is something that I need to talk about with Mr. Scamander."
Leta didn't correct Grindelwald, but instead she gave Theseus a quick glance, as if asking what she should answer even though the answer was obvious. It's Grindelwald. No one could defy what he wanted. He really appreciated Leta's concern though, especially without how she was downright hostile and trying to ignore him previously. He gave her a little, reassuring smile and slight nod.
"Of course you may, President Grindelwald." Leta responded, forcing a smile on her face.
Grindelwald clasped his hands excitedly, looking pleased at her answer. At least that was what would most people see. Theseus could tell he faked all that. Grindelwald then turned his attention toward Theseus, again gestured to follow him.
As Theseus followed the president, he turned his head back and found Leta giving him, what he dared to say, a worried look. He smiled slightly at her which promptly made her look away but that was enough to make him feel happy. His eyes caught another pair of eyes who looked at him with both worry and panic, and he shot Tina a reassuring smile and mouthed that he would be fine.
Theseus focused back onto Grindelwald again. Both of them might look like they blended into the crowd but they didn't. People gave them space to walk through despite their curiosity but none of them acted on it, cautiously stay on their place while speculating why were they talking. Grindelwald after all, was both adored and feared by the citizens.
"Did you enjoy your night?"
Theseus was startled by that question. He didn't expect it at all. He considered carefully before answering the question. "Yes. I quite enjoyed it, president Grindelwald."
Grindelwald took two glasses from the table near them and offered one of them to him. Theseus reluctantly took the glass but didn't drink the content inside. It was wine he noticed, but he didn't want to risk the possibility that Grindelwald actually slipped something in the wine. The president sipped his wine and let out an amused snort as he watched him.
"Cautious, aren't you?"
"Aren't you the one who said caution is important, president?"
Grindelwald's lips stretched in amusement. "So you actually listened to my words? Impressive."
Not that he particularly wanted to listen, but Grindelwald was a tricky and slick person, listening to him wouldn't hurt to survive all the madness within the Capitol. "Listening to someone who knows their ways in the Capitol doesn't sound too bad."
"You are adapting very well." Grindelwald mused. "But then again you always have been good at adapting to your surroundings without losing your principle. Hiding all your worries behind the sweet words and smile, without no one noticing how much uncomfortable you are with the whole thing."
Theseus listened to the president as he went on. He couldn't help but think that the president was merely biding his time to get to the point, which was not his first time either. He wanted to interrupt and ask what the president was trying to say but knew better and decided to swallow the words. He was about to tune out when his words caught attention to his ears.
"...don't hope too much for the rebellion or people you hold dearly will receive that consequence, Theseus Scamander."
Theseus froze for a moment before he turned his head to the president. Grindelwald had a cold smile on his face that sent chills down his spine. He knew. His mind shouting at him to run but he didn't. His feet stood rooted on the ground as Grindelwald put a hand on his shoulder and whispered.
"Forget about that footage. Never talk to anyone about that. Don't you dare make the rebellion grow stronger. Or else….." Grindelwald tightened his grip on Theseus's shoulder. He never finished his words but Theseus knew what he implied. And just like that, any hope that was inside of him withered before it had any chance to bloom.
Theseus swallowed the lump in his throat and replied, "I understand."
Grindelwald chuckled and pulled back. The smile, a fake one, still plastered on his face. He clasped his hands and told him with a hint of warning in his voice. "I will still be watching you closely to make sure you won't do anything suspicious." The president than hummed in amusement. "I mean if you did anything funny I can always make the Golds-"
"I know." Theseus stopped him, tightening his grip around a glass of wine on his hand. "I understood and I meant it. I won't do anything or say anything regardless of it." He bit his lips before continuing with a low voice. "Don't involve any of my siblings or my father."
Grindelwald studied his face before let out an amused laugh. "As long as you keep following my words, I won't do anything thing to your precious siblings." He emphasised at the precious siblings, obviously mocking him for it. "And your often absent father."
Theseus didn't say anything, refusing to give the man the satisfaction of taunting him. Grindelwald turned his back, ready to leave before he stopped and gave him a look over his shoulder. "Your client will approach later near the end of the banquet. For now, you can go back to your date. Give miss Lestrange my regards." Without any prompts, had Grindelwald already disappeared into the crowd, leaving him alone with his racing thoughts.
The threat was clear. Grindelwald tied his hands behind his back. Theseus let out a sigh and ran his hand through his hair in frustration. He was tired. Too tired for this whole thing. And he really didn't want to meet his client but he must regardless to what he felt about it. His gaze wandered around until he found Tina. An amused smile bloomed in his face when he realised that Tina was talking with Leta. He wondered what were they talking about.
Both Goldsteins were his sisters, even without blood connecting them it was still the truth. He won't let Grindelwald hurt them especially if he could prevent it. His gaze then landed on Leta.
I will see it for myself whether you are being too much of a good liar or actually being truthful.
A smile stretched on his face. People usually see him in the image they wanted to with his family as an exception. People either loved or hated him based on his image. And Leta was too, but she was willing to give him a chance. That was more than he could ask for.
Near the end of the banquet was still until midnight. He was going to approach them and enjoy the night before the spell broke and he had to return the reality again. He hoped, even just for a moment, he could forget everything and live in the moment.
He didn't ask for too much, right?
Hit me on tumblr or twitter
Use #WOCFic for reacting to the fic ;), I'll love to see some love in my twitter or tumblr
Laciefuyu