Interviews:
Like, don't you know that they got families?
Don't you know that they got mothers?
Some of y'all lost a couple of friends,
Would you like to lose another?
Mackenzie Ellesmere, District Ten
This isn't any weirder than the first time, I almost voice.
''Sit still for me, child,'' Venida barks, her instructions loud and clear. The other stylists are nowhere to be found. They're probably taking care of the outfit that I'm gonna be wearing for tonight's event.
As Venida assorts the equipment on the table for the umpteenth time, I begin to grow bored. ''Why are you taking so long?''
''Because the preparations must be in perfect order. If not, everything could go wrong, and I am not going to look like a fool in front of the entire nation.'' Once she's done explaining her reasoning, she sighs, and I can see a frown in front of the bureau mirror.
''Perfectionist, much?''
''Yes!'' she stresses, looking me right in the eyes. ''Children like you could never understand the stress that us stylists have to go through. You honestly don't know how easy you have it.''
...How easy I have it? Baffled, I rest my head in my hands. Easy?! A momentary flash of anger brushes across my face, but I hold it back. ''How do we have it easy? You're not the one who has to go out there tonight and impress millions of sponsors, you know?''
''I don't need to impress any sponsors,'' she says in a matter-of-fact tone, placing her hand up against her heart. ''Look, I'm sorry that you have to go into the Games, but how is that my fau—''
Her words instantly become clouded from my mind. Happy is my usual state, yet I stare at Venida in a cold way – the same way I always stare whenever something makes me upset. My stomach twists, turning rigid, and I feel my spirit sink into nothingness – even my aura turns monochrome.
My words crash out unchecked, unaltered. ''Shut up! How is it not your fault?! You live here! You should be protesting against the Games so that people can live their normal lives without worrying about their kids dying, but you don't, do you? You don't even care that I could be dead by tomorrow afternoon!''
The second voice in my head is telling me to go deeper, to snap, but I can't push the thought back. The explosion's already in process, and there's no reverse gear, no dampener. Every word is clipped, punching into the air.
''Have I ever specifically told you that I did not care for you? Maybe you should lower your voice and actually—'' She stops mid-sentence, inspecting the look on my face. ''...Are you? Whatever you do, don't cry. Crying is the absolute worst action to commit in a situation like this! You're so close, and you want to cry?''
''Close to what, death?''
A week ago, I wouldn't have been able to understand why someone would want to cry. Life is so enjoyable when you live it the right way and have fun. But now, basically alone in an environment of quietus... I do.
''You've seen the Games. You've seen how tributes end up!'' I shout, slamming my fists against my thighs. ''I could either die from quick relief or a painstakingly long process. Either way, in the end, I'm in a state of confusion, denial, embarrassment and anger because of you!''
Before she can say anything, I jump up out of my seat and attack. I don't know what happens, but in a quick blur, my fist slams into her gut, forcing her to sink into her stomach. Why'd you do that?
Recoiling back, I come to a sudden stop. Turning my head to the left, I take in the inventory. The makeup here is a maximum, reserved to an abundant amount of mascara, lipstick, and many more items that would only make me appear to be someone I'm not.
Grabbing one of the brushes, I dust it into the nearest makeup powder that I can find. Applying some fine chalk powder to Venida's face, I roughly uneven her eyes with the black dust, making them lopsided. She grunts in disgust, but I'm able to use the eyeliner to draw a purple of amethyst on her cheek. In my attempt to design a dick on her face, I just miss out on the last ball when she rises. Chuckling to myself, I say, ''That really contrasts your cherry-red curls beautifully!''
My fingers search for something else to use while she looks at herself in the polished mirror. I come in contact with a pair of scissors, and, taking in her green dress, edged with white frills, a devious idea pops into the forefront of my mind. Running around her, I jump back up on the chair and cut the straps on the back of her dress. The top portion of her body is revealed, and she desperately attempts to catch the falling piece of clothing.
''You pervert!'' she screams.
Shrugging, I apologize sarcastically. ''Sorry, but I'm not impressed enough to be aroused.''
Her pearl earrings are fastened to her ears, but they're soon falling to the floor when I rip them out with force. And when I say that she screams, I'm telling you... she screams.
''Son of a—!''
Positioning myself in front of her, I cut her off and express my opinion. ''Your lips could actually use a bit more gloss.'' Cocking my head back, I push my tongue forward and spit on her mouth, giving it a wet shine.
Finally done with my jest, I run for the door and place my hand on the knob. Before exiting, I catch her staring at me furiously, the fumes basically being visible on top of her head.
''You disgusting, truculent, indignant, deleterious cretin!''
''Joke's on you, I don't even know what half of those words mean!'' Sticking out my tongue, I try my best to hold back a laugh.
''Why would you do that?!''
''It was just a prank, bro. Maybe you should take that thong out of your ass so that you don't take it so seriously next time.''
Opening the door and rushing out, I skip down the hallway and giggle like a little girl. Man, I swear, even the birds outside would shut up to hear my energetic laughter emerging and filling the air with gorgeous sounds coming from deep within my chest.
Like I said, life can be enjoyable. I guess you just have to make it that way.
Aurora Maran, District One
''Welcome, people of Panem, to the one and only tribute interviews! You've all been waiting for this, the night that you can witness the personalities of all your favorite tributes and decide who you wanna bet on. We'll fall in love, we'll cry, we'll say farewell to those we don't want to die. This is the One Hundred Seventy-Seventh Hunger Games!''
Turning around, I look down the line, and every single tribute has their eyes on me. My nerves are frayed to the quick. In the building of my anxiety, I construct elaborate rationalizations as to why things won't go as bad as I assume.
I'll be elegant, I'll speak fluently, and I'll act confident. Navidia and I went through five hours in my prep room for this special night. We went over how I should walk, how I should talk – we even had practice questions pertaining to my alliance and the relationship that I've grown with these guys. I'll do good... I will!
Cassian meets my eyes with his own, and with a reassuring smile, he whispers, ''You'll do fine. Stop worrying about it and just talk.''
Just talk... That's all, just talk. Nodding my head, I turn around and wait for instructions. The guard in front of the line, big, buffed up, intimidating, says, ''Your name will be called in a few seconds. Be ready.''
His boring voice only makes me smile, because I have to be happy and cheerful and pleasant – like always. And right on time, after completing the introductions, Addison calls me out. ''All the way from District One, let's start out with the lovely Aurora Maran!''
As soon as I step onto the stage, I hear the thundering roar of the audience. They're loud, energetic, joyous, and when I turn to look at them, my heart sinks. Row after row is filled with all different types of colors. Exotic ones that I've never seen before, sponsors of different magnitudes, and I bet that a few influential and important celebrities are staring me in the eye right now.
My breathing becomes rapid, and I can feel my pulse pounding in my temples.
''Aurora, yes, girl!'' Addison shouts. ''I love that beautiful side cut-out-sleeved body dress! Skin tight fits you, honey! Oh, you're just lookin' like a snack, baby! Do a spin! Do a spin!''
Doing what she asks for, I spin around three times and rile up the crowd. But honestly, it's a relief to get to the chair, because between the heels of my exposed legs shaking, I'm afraid I'll trip.
''Thank you for having me here!'' I gush out, throwing on a happy exterior. Something's wrong. Addison is never this nice to tributes, so what's her game?
Preparing myself for her impending question, I expect it to be something that has to do with my allies, but then she hits me with a surprise.
''Some sources tell me that you used to do ballet... but you quit. Why?''
Who told her this? Why is her first question so personal?
''Because I wanted to volunteer for the Games,'' I quickly think up a lie. ''...It was either I become a Victor in the Hunger Games, or waste my time on some s-silly hobby. Coming to the Capitol and entertaining you people is what's most important, of course!''
The lies swirl all around me, suffocating me, leaving me in an empty shape. It's like my breath is being stolen, but I manage to maintain and control it just enough so that I don't look distressed. Addison stares at me with narrowed eyes while the audience cheers, almost as if she can see the deceit coming from my perfect teeth – as if all vibrations in the air are inconsequential in the medium that they travel through.
She raises her hand, telling the audience to quiet down. The Capitolite phenomenon has so much power over everyone, and she most likely knows the honesty about my mother forcing me to tryout for the volunteer position. Does she know about Jameson?
''Would you mind telling us about your brother?''
Of course she does.
''Jameson is his name, correct?'' I nod my head to her question. ''How come he didn't volunteer along with you? Is there some sort of sibling rivalry that you two had going on, and you ended up beating him?''
Be logical! I wasn't expecting her to let this slide, and I'm glad that I didn't. Being a realist has its perks, but still. Why? ''Jameson has always been more motivated to be in the political matters of District One. Really, he'd make a great mayor, if you ask me. We just went our separate ways, that's all.''
''And is he supportive of your decision to volunteer?''
''No! Why the hell would he be—'' I stop myself before I can continue any further, backpedaling from my previous answer. Stop being so impulsive! Answer calmly, dammit. ''Of course he is! Why wouldn't he be? Our connection is extremely tight, and no matter what I decide to do with my life, he's always right by my side.''
Nodding her head, Addison holds out her hand for me to shake, and I take it tenderly. Despite her frequent attempts at making me feel vulnerable, I don't allow her to get into my skin and make me break down.
I can't let them know that everything I said was false. If they were to find out about my parents pushing me to do this, I wouldn't be able to explain my wanting of affection. They'd think of me as some insignificant, jealous girl who's always been in the shadow of her brother.
And in truth, that's all I really am.
''Aurora Maran, everybody!''
Even as the clapping commences, I still feel as though I'm going to tumble to the ground. Making it off stage and being ushered forward by a Peacekeeper, I run in my heels and wait on the other side.
How could I ever be so dumb? Why had our plan been so reasonable this morning but ended up having many flaws when one woman decided to question me? As my mind spins in its usual carousel of reasons why I'll never become anyone great, I shake my head with regret.
Next time, it'd be better to avoid the trouble. That is, even if there even is a next time.
Lucretia Hanover, District Six
''These Games are simply a way to get out of a loveless life,'' Aether says, standing up in his flower-printed, gold-encrusted, long-sleeved blazer. ''My existence is bitter, but hopefully things will change.''
Addison nods her head with a sympathetic look on her face, but that bitch is so fake. She's absolutely beautiful, though, and her luxurious lifestyle must be quite fabulous. She and I would make good friends, unlike these peasants behind me.
What type of bitter life was Aether talking about? He lived in District One, for fuck's sake. Surely he was rich. Maybe he's simply ungrateful.
''Can you not breathe down my fucking neck, you disgusting pig?''
Lachlan looks at me uncomfortably, and then he states, ''I'm three feet behind you. How am I breathing down your neck?''
''Your presence is what makes me despise you the most. Why can't you just die already? Six doesn't need you to be their Victor when I can take over that spot easily.''
Ignoring his comeback and paying attention to the interview ahead, I watch as the audience claps for Camille Lussier. Yeah, I missed her interview, but I assume that it went splendid. Although, I did hear her mention that she's doing this for herself. Selfish much?
I mean, I'm selfish, but it's different.
''It sucks, doesn't it? That your brother, who was so talented, so benevolent, fell at the hands of a tribute from Seven,'' Addison continues the interview with Cassian, entering what I suppose is forbidden territory by the look on his face. ''You're so sophomoric, but he was mature and sensible. It's a shame how raffish and recreant he became later on in the Games. Really, he turned into a joke once the final five came into view, and it was quite hilarious when he stumbled and fell over—''
Without saying a word, Cassian grabs the cloudy, chlorinated glass cup of water that sits on the flower table right in front of Addison. With a sudden burst of fury, he splashes the liquid all over her and slams the expensive beaker-shaped, drained item against the floor, causing it to crack and spread out.
''Don't you dare say anything negative about my brother ever again,'' he asserts. ''You have no right to be talking. Have you ever been in the Games? Did you go through what he did? Did you watch your allies get their heads split open and get ravaged by mutts?! No. So shut the fuck up. You act like it's easy, going up against twenty-three other tributes and being targeted by the gamemakers, but you've never been in an arena, and you never will. Next time you wanna criticize someone who's dead, make sure that you know exactly what they went through and what they did wrong. Until then, shut your mouth and do what you're supposed to do: interview people and not express your meaningless opinions!''
A collective gasp comes from the audience, and when Cassian storms off to the other side of the stage, I squint my eyes to make out what's going on over there. Camille's lecturing him, and Aurora has her hands pressed against her head in surprise.
''All right, then.'' Addison almost twitches, but she composes herself before anything can happen. She rings some of the water out of her hair, but there's no place for her to wipe her hands on. Seemingly frustrated and upset, she calls out Chayona.
Ugh, great. ''The unimportant, stuttering mess of a girl is next. It's literally gonna be three minutes of her just st-st-st-stating how upset she is. What a fucking waste of space.''
In front of me, Sota laughs silently and asks Odessa if she heard what I said. She minds him no attention, though, and remains as cold as ever. ''That was kinda funny. Nice joke,'' he compliments, facing me.
''Well, you know me,'' I playfully tease, gaining another grin from the boy.
''Is there anything that you'd like to say to your family and friends?'' Addison questions, actually sounding like she genuinely cares for the girl.
Honestly, none of what she's saying is important. All I can help but notice is her stunning two-piece sequined gown. I used to have one exactly like it back at home. Oh, how I miss wearing it around the streets of my District, flaunting my opulence and wealth.
''We've been through b-bumpy roads, but I-I'm gonna fight so that w-we can make up for all of the past p-problems that we've had. Really, I mean that...''
...What happened to the pessimism that she once carried? Long before today, I swear I overheard her murmuring to herself, saying something about how she'll never be as good as her sisters and how useless she is to everyone.
And really, she is useless! What could she ever provide to the more salient people such as myself and the Careers? Absolutely nothing! She looks beautiful because people of higher power are helping her; it's not the other way around. Dumb bitch.
Up next is Gideon, and oh, my, he looks like a model. Seriously, I wish he wasn't from Three. If his lifestyle was as lavish as mine, he and I would be something special. This just isn't our time, I suppose. It would have been much better if he were reaped next year, after my victory, and then became Victor himself.
Peoples' eyes would open at every appearance that we would make. He's so private, though, so I can't tell much about him. Nothing other than the fact that he's got that tan skin look going on, and his dark eyes make me a bit weak at my knees. His slim, muscular figure with that almost perfectly symmetrical face of his is gorgeous, but...
...He's obviously poor! No rich man would ever be so reserved.
''Any allies? With the training score of a six, especially coming from a District like your own, isn't that enough to turn a few heads?''
''No, not really. I've denied every alliance invitation that I've received so far, but only because I don't feel comfortable around others that I'm unsure of.''
Placing her wet hands on his knees, Addison asks, ''Do you feel comfortable around me?''
Gideon's bottom lip tugs violently, as if some sort of distant memory just passed through his mind. He looks uncomfortable, but he forces on a sexy smile and coughs out, ''Of course.''
Raising an eyebrow, I can't help but feel tension in the air. It's not good, either.
Why'd the dumb hoe have to go and ruin a beautiful moment?
Condor Teal, District Seven
Crossing one leg over the other, Addison wonders, ''Did you volunteer because you could, or is there a bigger meaning behind your resolve?''
Odessa lowers her gaze, almost as if the topic at matter is sensitive to her, but she also looks ferocious. ''What do you mean?''
''I was just wondering if you were doing this for your family, by chance,'' Addison says, sounding innocent.
''That's not something I usually talk about.'' Scratching the back of her head, Odessa shrugs and looks away, pulling down the end of her dress in nervousness. ''But I can tell you that I volunteered for something important. That's all.''
Odessa's interview ends well, and up next is Sota. Why is she being so personal this year? Something's up, and I don't understand why she's acting so insensitive.
What's the point of her asking things that aren't related to the Hunger Games? Does she know about our lives back at home? Or even our histories? Really, I wouldn't put it past her if so. She has to know how easy it is to manipulate the truth out of us, and if we don't follow, it could lead to bad decisions being made on partial evidence of our lies.
This isn't just an entertainment thing, and it certainly doesn't have anything to do with money issues. We're all just sitting puppets under her strings, being displayed in front of the media and advertisers like nothing more than mere play toys.
And by the end of Sota's interview, I realize that to be true. The Capitol loves him – they look as if they're under his favor, but is that true? He's under their favor of providing pleasure – we all are. So, in the end, how we respond to her questions determine so much. As if our lives weren't already in their hands, whatever impact we leave in the arena hits our families, too!
''Imogen, darling, I must say that I absolutely adore your dress,'' Addison proclaims, although her golden eyes indicate something else. ''But the ends look like beef curtains. Was that supposed to be on purpose?''
Taking it like a champ, Imogen simply shrugs and smiles at Addison's insult. Even as the audience is laughing at her in mocking fashion, she doesn't let the embarrassment phase her. Addison is tearing at her contrast panel-printed dress, and she even cracks a few jokes on her milkmaid braid.
I'm never one to focus on another person's looks, but Imogen is stunning. Besides, isn't she technically making fun of her fellow Capitolites, seeing as some of them are stylists?
''I've been trash talked by many. Hated by some, as well,'' Imogen informs, standing up from her seat like she determines when her interview is over. ''You've been adding to the mix all night long, but guess how many fucks I give? Baby, it's less than one.''
She walks to the front of the stage and bows, blowing a few kisses to the audience when she pops back up. Their laughter is something I never expected. Since when did they have a sense of humor? An elderly lady sitting at the front is coughing all over herself, her face painted red, but the smile that she carries is as plain as day.
''Well... What a lovely young lady, wouldn't you say?'' Seemingly, Addison didn't expect for the audience to actually agree with her rhetoric question. An abrupt twitch occurs in her left eye, but she's quick to call out the next tribute. ''Up next is Imogen's charming ally, Sebastian Hammond!''
Throughout the entire conversation between the two, Sebastian stares at her with an uninterested, scrutinizing glare, answering questions without much thought and with harsh sarcasm. ''Does it look like I'm excited to you? Tomorrow could be the last day of my life and you ask me that? Shut up.''
Again, he goes quiet. Minutes pass by before Lucretia takes the stage, and she acts like she's part of the Capitol – by the way that she fits in so well, you could actually mistake her for one of them if it weren't for her natural looks.
''Ms. Chevel, I have no doubt that I will come out alive. The Careers and I have big plans coming, but like the rules state, only one person wins. As an early preparation for my ceremony, I assure you beautiful people that I will be your newest Victor!''
''She sure knows how to ride their coattails, huh?'' I overhear Natalie whisper to herself. The guard in front of us heard her, too, but he doesn't say anything.
''You're telling me,'' I start, grabbing her attention. ''If that's all it really takes to gain sponsors, then it should be easy.''
''Right?'' Now that I come to think of it, this is the most that Natalie and I have ever really said to each other. But I wish we had more interactions. She's never been as open as I would have liked. ''Maybe we should try that. We'd—'' she stops.
We? ''Yeah, we'd have a nice advantage, don't you think?''
I nod my head when she finishes, smiling kindly and paying attention to the stage. Lachlan walks off, designating Natalie's turn. ''Good look,'' I say when her name is called. But... her words linger in my mind.
We're not allies, and any chance of that happening is slim to none now. I guess that we would have an upper hand, but definitely not together. And, if you think about it, if the both of us recited similar strategies – despite us already knowing our game plans with the help of our mentors and stylists – and aren't together in the arena, things could look suspicious. Would that lead the gamemakers to bringing us together for a fight, as if it were some sort of District conflict?
''I believe that I am ready for these Games,'' Natalie decides to say after pondering silently to herself, grinning confidently. She's always held her tongue – always watched what she said – ever since we were reaped, and even now, she still does. ''But remember these words: Whatever goes around, comes around...''
''Huh?'' Addison puzzles. ''What... What does that mean?''
Nobody understands what she refers to by that, but I think that I perceive what she's saying. A small titter, coming from me, ripples across the otherwise silent room.
Was that a hint of an upcoming insurgency, Natalie?
Darren Leicester, District Eight
When that Natalie girl exits the stage, Condor replaces her spot. In front of me, Eloise looks a bit nervous.
''Hey,'' I say, placing a hand on her shoulder. She looks at me with big eyes, almost puppy dog-like. ''Don't be scared. You'll do well.''
She nods her head, and I expect something to come out of her mouth, but she remains quiet. She's been fairly distant recently, and I don't know whether or not if she's still thinking about what happened with the Career yesterday, but she should know that I'm always by her side no matter what occurs...
''Wow, you're so handsome,'' Addison flirts, placing a hand on Condor's cheek. The boy goes stiff instantly, like he's never been touched by a girl before. ''Aw, look at how red your face is getting! I could just kiss you.''
''Please stop...''
''What, am I making you nervous? Is it bad that I find you attractive?'' she asks, teasing him even more. Condor apparently doesn't know how to handle the situation, though. ''I hope you make it out alive, because I'd eat you right up if I could... And if you do emerge as Victor, I won't be able to hold myself back!''
''Stop it!'' Condor yells, standing up and marching away. Right before he exits the stage, he turns around and mouths her off. ''There's much more than looks to a person, you know? Stop being so demeaning, you inconsiderate ass! You're here to interview me, not flirt! You're disgusting...''
Coughing as the audience oohs in unison, Addison rubs her eyes and sighs in mortification. Fixing her posture and forcing her breath to move steadily, she calls out Eloise.
''Up next, reigning all the way from District Eight, I introduce you all to the endearing Eloise Allegro!''
She walks up to the stage in her royal blue mini dress, flashes of crystal blue stripes popping up every now and then when the brightness hits her, searing into everyone's retinas. The lights, in my opinion, rival the sun itself, forcing me to squint my eyes.
Her patent leather, dark nude heels click loudly against the floor, her posture proper and her attitude morally sound – and it's like she's back to the original person that she was, now boisterous and cheerful as soon as Addison begins.
''How do you feel about your odds, Eloise?''
''I think that they're good, to be honest with you,'' she says, flashing a toothy grin at everyone. Her confidence is contagious; this is the girl that I know. ''Me and Darren can hold our own together, so—''
''What makes you think that you and your ally can do anything?'' Addison blurts out, interrupting her. ''I don't mean to be rude or anything, but with the Careers and all the other alliances roaming around, what possibility do you two have at reaching it far together? It makes no sense to me.''
''We just have the heart and passion,'' Eloise answers. ''You may not notice it, but we look out for each other and—''
''What if you're forced to betray one another, though?''
''We'll never betray one another!'' she declares, and just like that, a smile spreads across my face. Atta girl. ''Careers might betray each other, other allies might betray each other, but me and Darren... We've just got a bond th—''
''A bond that could be broken if one of you dies?''
''Shut up!'' Obviously feeling attacked, Eloise frets a little bit and lashes out at Addison with words. ''You keep trying to force the wrong thing out of my mouth and make it seem as if we're vulnerable and easy to fuck with, but we're not! Stop being such an asshole and be nice for once! I'm seriously so tired of you... I don't see any penises in the general vicinity, so I'm wondering why you keep opening your fucking mouth and saying all this bullshit that you do!''
Eloise's interview ends early, and like nothing ever happened, Addison calls me out next. Clenching my fists, I stand still until the security guard shoves me. I keep watch of Addison's fake smile remaining on me, my heart hammering in my chest, but I keep my gait casual with no hesitance.
Sitting down on the couch across from her, I peer over to the other side of the stage and make eye-contact with Eloise. She cries silently as if her brain is being shredded from the inside. Emotional pain flows from her every pore, and from her mouth comes a barely audible cry that makes me feel... weak on the inside.
I grab onto the couch arm so that my violent shaking doesn't cause me to smack Addison across the face, so that I don't attack some idiotic, random Capitolite in the audience.
''Darren, it's finally nice to speak to you one-on-one. Out of all the tributes in this year's Games, you've been one of the most interesting from your reaping to your training score.'' She talks, but I'm not listening. It's as if she believes that I actually care about what she's saying, and I can't stand that. ''I hope that you're different from your partner over there... What a mess, am I right?''
I've never felt so much rage as when pushed into passivity against my will. That's what they expect from us tributes, though, to be kind and loving when they're putting our lives at risk..! Show your anger and they'll drug you into compliance. It's the only emotion you aren't allowed to show...
''But, then again, you two do come from a poorer District, so it's not surprising that she has no manners. Unlike you, though, correct? Because you know—''
''Addison, shut the fuck up! You keep looking down on us tributes and expect for us to not say anything back, and I'm tired of it! You act like you're so perfect, but everything about you is fake – your ass is fake, your tits are fake, your personality is fake, your teeth are fake..! I can't deal with you anymore. Everything that you've said today has been so rude, and how people can enjoy this is so fucking ridiculous. Seriously, it raises a question mark! Don't ever fuck with someone like me – I'm not gonna take it like a little bitch and not stand up to you like it doesn't phase me!''
Turning to face the audience, I point out at all of them, and just like that, they shrink under my gaze. ''None of you are any better than her. I bet this is a surprise to you, isn't it? You've never been used to 'normal' people who express their anger because you're all freaks! You guys have all the designer labels in your closets, but it's still not a good enough substitute to detract the attention from your hideous personalities on the inside and out!''
Coming to an end, I slow down a little bit. For a few moments, I see small bits of compassion in some of their eyes, but it's gone in an instant. People like me don't receive love from people like them.
Whipping around to face Addison, I raise my hand in the air in a mock-gesture to slap the shit out of her, but she cowers and shrieks under my stature. Around me, I can hear the shifting of Peacekeepers and guards, ready to intervene if I dare let it go.
''Fuck you, bitch.'' Lowering my hand, I simply stick out my middle finger and utter, ''I hope your fucking house burns down and you get bombed. ...Suck my dick, you snobbish whore.''
Aaliyah Ransier, District Eleven
...Can I be as open and honest as the rest have been?
What makes me scared the most is that I might accidentally snap at her if the wrong question is asked – if she brings up my past, or even Aedan...
You're always being judged, whether you accept it or not. First, the District, and now the Capitol. But what's new?
Both of Nine's tributes finish their interviews soundly, the girl crying over herself and speaking about some sort of curse, while the boy was calm but came off as aggressive – as if something terrible happened to him in the past twenty-four hours.
''Up next, please help me give a lovely welcoming hand to the adorable Gracie Sullivan of District Ten!''
The girl walks up so convincingly, so happily, like she doesn't understand that she could be dead come tomorrow afternoon. Her and Addison start speaking, but it's honestly more of a one-sided conversation. Addison asks all the questions, but the girl spews out random facts about horses.
''Honey, those answers have nothing to do with our interview,'' Addison giggles. ''Come on, stop being so defiant. It's almost as if something's wrong with your head.''
''Well, my daddy always told me that I was special,'' the girl answers. Addison's face turns pale, and just like that, she ends the interview and calls up the girl's district partner.
With all the personal questions she's been asking, it's likely that she'll inquire about Mom, Dad, and the murders. Fuck..!
Looking back up at the television screen plastered on the wall, I realize how much I've missed of Mackenzie's interview. The boy is now on top of Addison with a shard of glass in his hands – but how?
''How would you feel if you knew that you'd never see your mother ever again?!'' Screaming at the top of his lungs, he's forcefully restrained from the Capitol star. Her state of mind isn't deterred one bit, though, and I can only wish to have the same amount of equanimity as she does.
But then it hits me. I'm next...
Shifting uncomfortably in her seat, Addison curses silently to herself, probably wishing for the absolute worst things to happen to everyone who's showed detestation to her and the Capitol so far.
''Hopefully this next interview goes well... From the depths of District Eleven,'' she starts, but that word 'depths' sticks out to me, ''please help me give a hand to the riveting Aaliyah Ransier!''
Riveting? No, no..! Don't you dare try to make me seem like more than I actually am, you judging...
The man in front ushers me up to the stage, and as I walk forward, I can't help but peer up at the gigantic television overhead. On my face is a bored deadpan, yet only I can tell how frightened I actually am on the inside.
''Aaliyah,'' she says when I take a seat, her corporate smile being the most clear feature thus far. And I know that it's fake because so is my own. I smiled for eight hours today, seeing as it was a requirement for this moment. You should leave your face neutral and let your mouth lie in a thin, morbid line so that your cheeks can rest. ''Are you excited for tomorrow?''
...Huh?
Squeezing my knees, I cross my legs together, trying to get myself situated. Under my crystal-embellised wing sandals are the remaining glass shards that weren't cleaned up from Cassian's interview, and a crack reverberates from beneath me.
Look weaker than you actually are. ''No... not really.'' And you're not, but in the arena, you'll surprise them and emerge as a new person. You're dedicated to this, girl. ''But I'm gonna do my best to succeed, of course.''
That receives a few claps and whistles, but Addison's not done yet, of course. ''That's strange,'' she snorts. ''I thought that you'd be used to murder.'' Addison, don't! ''Especially since your brother, Aedan, I believe his name is, is a murderer. He burned down houses, from what I was told. Aren't you the same?''
''W-W-What..?'' I stammer, feeling like nothing's changed. Just like before... I'm compared to him! Wherever he is, he's probably shocked, but what about Jasper and Dad? Are they surprised? Maybe they're happy – they've both hated me since... ''No, I'm different!''
''Oh, please,'' she knocks away the truth. ''Don't tell us that someone with such a horrific background like you isn't prepared to kill. Is this a strategy, for you to act weak and then cause mayhem once you enter the arena? If so, that's a wonderful master plan, honey. Would you mind sharing how you'll kill? Or, are you just going to use your brother's methods and give us a nice show?''
And that's why. That's why I act pessimistic around others, why I avoid all connections with new people. No matter how hard I try to initiate a conversation or a friendship, it's always debunked by the mention of my brothers' names.
Gripping tightly onto the thighs of my jaguar-coated dress, feeling the specks, I slip my hands casually down from my knees to my ankles and then come back up. ''I knew that you were always a bad person. Before even coming up onstage, I told myself that you'd ask some fucked up questions that would screw me over, and look at that, I was right!''
''Excuse me?''
My hate for her burns in my heart, so deep that it's ingrained in the tissue. I've always been adept at hiding my broken insides, but the frustration is too much to seal now.
''You're horrible! Why do you even do this to us? My life was already bad enough, but then you added the worst punishment that I could ever receive to it. And, Addison, I don't know what your issue with us is, or why you keep asking these deep questions, but you need to get your shit straight. Because I'm done, and everyone else is done, too!''
When she opens up her mouth to say something, I connect my hand with her cheek, and the entire room goes silent. Everyone looks at me – the audience, the tributes who've finished their interviews, the tributes who still have to go, and the entirety of Panem – as if I did something wrong...
I'm the center of attention now – the exact thing that I didn't want to be.
Staring down at her, I almost laugh when I see the giant hand print on her face. Even though I know that there'll be serious consequences – even though I know that I shouldn't have done the first thing to pop into my mind – I can't help but feel... electrified.
''That's how I really feel.''
A/N: Ayeee! Honestly, it's felt like forever since I've updated this story. Like I said last chapter, I'm really trying to enjoy my summer, and so far, it's been great. I hope that you're all enjoying your summer, too, if you're also on break. If not, keep goin', you're almost there. Anyway, I know that I said that I'd only have one chapter with six POVs, but this one had to have six. The thing with me and my chapters is that I write fast-paced, and I don't know whether people enjoy that or not, but it's just my preferred and natural style. I hope that it's not a problem, but those of you who've been here for a while know how I am with interviews. I don't like them very much, and writing them is a pain, especially because I wanna give everyone the spotlight for their questions and stuff, but then again, the person with the POV deserves to have their feelings and opinions expressed. And when I'm trying to maintain each POV equally, it's hard. Which is why from Malik to Pavel, nobody else was shown. I'm sorry for that, to their creators, but I wasn't gonna continue with an extra two POVs. I really just couldn't - and I wouldn't, either.
Basically, for a summary, Malik was asked about his ally and his game plan, Helena was questioned about the disease in District Twelve and how her family life is, Aspen attempted to flirt and was embarrassed, also getting angry, Krissy's training score was brought up, and Pavel praised the Capitol for their soldiers and said that he'd have a chance at becoming one himself if he were to win. So yeah, just try to imagine that, if you can. It probably won't go the same way to you guys as I planned it, but it's good enough. So Launch is next chapter, and then we're officially done with the second group. I think the last ones remaining are Aether, Sota, Imogen, Natalie, Gracie, Aspen, Malik and Pavel, and I've already got everything sorted out for that specific chapter, so I'll try to get their POVs done as quick as possible. With basketball going on, and an online class and recreational fun, it's not too hard to find time for everything, but still, priorities, you know.
Also, the poll results are up on my profile. Congratulations to Gideon for winning it, but it was pretty close. I think Imogen was behind by one vote, and then everyone else was back-to-back, too. I'm a bit surprised, though, because Chayona didn't receive a single vote, and a lot of you were gushing on about how good she was or whatever. Y'all got me thinking now. Hmm. Anyway, it's all good, though. I'm surprised that some of you voters didn't go for your own tributes, but idk. But like I said, the poll votes don't really mean anything. Someone with one vote could end up winning, but we'll see. Anyway, questions.
Opinions on the POVs?
Who's interview was your favorite?
What'd you like best about the chapter?
You're a tribute in the Games, and Addison brings up some extra personal shit that you're uncomfortable with. She eggs it on and attempts to force a reaction out of you, but it's starting to get annoying and extremely rude. What's your reaction?
All right, that's really it for this chapter. Thank you for reading, and y'all got me to a hunnid reviews. Thanks! ;) This is the most aggressive chapter for an interview that I've ever written out of all my stories. All the anger was so clear, and it worked, imo. Just remember that this is only the start, and things are gonna be changing real quick. A bit of development here, a bit of heartbreak there, etc. Anyway, see y'all next chapter, and have a wonderful day/night/whatever time it is for you. See ya! ^-^
