I'm off for pretty much the entirety of this week before my hours at work change twice before school starts, so I'm going to get a lot of writing in. Also, a very long chapter that I split up into two parts.
Warning: this chapter contains elements of ableism in the workplace and in public.
Chapter 32: A Night to Remember Part 1
~Who fetches the water from the rocky mountain spring?
And walk back down again to feel your words and their sharp sting
And I'm getting fucking tired~
Circe Ashton- Master of Ceremonies
Circe tried wheeling herself towards through the black curtain, to enter onto the stage. However, she ran through several problems. The major one being that there were a lot of people- all of them either hair stylists, makeup artists, producers and other important people crowding around to make sure that everything looked okay. She barely paid any attention to the Peacekeepers that were lined against the wall in their stark-white uniforms, and rifles slung against their bodies. They were there to make sure everything went okay through now until after everything was all cleaned up and done. She could see that most of the stage crew were talking in whispers, barely paying attention to their surroundings. The sound of the audience becoming louder and louder with every passing moment.
"Excuse me," She said, swerving her chair so that she wouldn't accidentally roll someone's foot over. "Coming through. I need to be on stage in a couple of minutes."
As soon as those words came out of her mouth, some of the stage crew moved out of the way, backing themselves up somewhere else. Some of them hardly paid attention, and didn't bother to move out of the way until one of her wheels accidentally ran over someone's foot. One of them let out a small yelp and jumped out.
"You rolled my foot over," they said, looking at her with an angry expression- their eyes narrowed. "You should have watched where you were going. I was here first."
"I said excuse me. You should have moved out of the way, but you didn't," Circe snapped. "It's your fault that you didn't pay attention. Hell, everyone else did but you."
"Well- you should have watched where you were going," the other person snapped. "Why are you in a wheelchair? What did you do to be in one? I didn't know they allow people of your kind to be on TV. Maybe, they wanted to check a diversity quota and thought a disabled person was good enough. I bet you're not even disabled. You're just faking it. Come on, you can't be more than what you are in your late twenties, early thirties. You're too young to be in one."
"And here I thought you were too old to be a dick and a bully, but I was wrong." The look on the dick's face was priceless and Circe continued on, "If you want to have my non-functioning body, go ahead. I'm sure you'll love knowing that you won't be able to get up to your apartment or penthouse, because the elevator is broken for weeks at a time. Or, knowing that you can't get through doors and there is no other way too, besides transferring from your wheelchair, and scooting towards places, but you can't do that in a public place. Go take a page out of my book for one day, and see how you like it."
There was loud silence as soon as Circe made her comeback. It was quiet as though one could hear a pin drop. Some of them had gaping looks on their face, but otherwise said nothing as Circe passed the dickhead and headed onto the stage. Blinding stage lights met her gaze and her vision was filled of white and black as she wheeled herself towards the center of the stage, right next to the white, fluffy, saucer chair. She looked at the dark silhouettes in front of her, unable to see her faces, as she pulled a wheelie when she got to her spot.
The crowd went wild as soon as her two front wheels were lifted off the ground. She held that for about thirty seconds, even moving around like that, before the two front wheels went back onto the ground, with a small thud. She looked back next to her with the white, saucer chair and was instantly reminded of how much she had to fight to have her wheelchair on stage with her, and to be seen as disabled icon- instead of what they wanted her to do, a few years ago.
When the studio, and the execs were conducting interviews to have the Master of Ceremony position for the Hunger Games and was one of the qualifying candidates for the position, they didn't want to show her disability on screen. They thought it would make people feel bad that she was disabled considering she was young. They also thought that because her body didn't work like an able-body person did, it would serve as a reminder of what people lost during the war. They wanted her to hide her disability- a part of who she was.
Of course, when she got hired for the job, they straight up told her, it would be better if she was already in the chair provided and she would already be on stage, sitting there, when they allowed people into the studio. This also meant that she wouldn't have anything to drink or to eat for hours, and that she would be stuck in the chairs for hours until most of them had left, until one poor soul would bring her chair back to her.
If she was still the person who wanted to hide the way she was in fact, very much disabled. She would have said yes. But she learned to accept that her body was different, and deserved the same amount of respect that an able-body counterpoint had. It wasn't her fault that her body didn't function properly so she threatened to sue, defamation and leave if they didn't make the hallways and most of the building accessible, and made sure that elevators were constantly working. Circe made sure they did that, essentially threatening them to make sure.
"How are you doing tonight?" Circle called out, wincing as she realized how loud the microphone earpiece was- but oh well. "As you know, I'm Circe Ashton and tonight is the night we've been waiting for! The tributes of the tenth annual Hunger Games will be here with us tonight as they express their hopes, dreams and what they are loving about being in the Capitol… You know it's going to be sad when we realize that twenty-three of these tributes will not be returning to us. But, we will have someone to call- Victor of the Tenth Hunger Games!"
Clapping and shouts were heard, echoing throughout the room and on the stage. It felt thunderous and loud, but she continued her speech to introduce the tributes.
"Everyone, the moment we've been waiting for. From District One, Affluence Cardeza!"
On her left, she noticed an average sized female who waved at the crowd and smiled at it as she sat down in the chair. She was very pretty, even Circe had to admit that. Affluence's stylists must have had a little bit of makeup like dark eyeshadow, and nude lipstick were clearly added, with her hair curled slightly more than what normally would have. She had a knee-length, glittery green dress that sparkled in the spotlights, and dark blue tights which was a nice contrast between the two. Although it did look strange, she wasn't here to judge. It was her job to get these tributes the spotlight they deserved before they were lost to the test of time, forever immortal to the tapes that would later air the Games, until there would be no one left to even remember these tributes.
"So Affluence… I think you did a really good job on getting that score of seven. I wish I could ask how you earned because I'm sure we are all curious about that. But I am unable to, so tell us about your life in the district… Is there anything you miss or don't miss from the district?" Circe asked.
Affluence laughed before she answered the question, "Well, I grew up on the outskirts of the district. It's very different from someone who grew up in the main part of town. For one, it's much quieter and there aren't many people.."
A laugh came from the Capitolites but Affluence continued on, without much faze.
"This also meant that it was very hard to get messages through and have communication between the two sects. It was my job to serve as a messenger to be able to deliver messages and have communication connecting to the main part and to the villages on the rural side. Most of the villagers are veterans of the war, who simply moved there after the war, in order to get rid of the remnants of the Dark Days and the war itself. They chose not to have the reminders and constant reminders of what they lost.
"You see, it was my job. I learned so many stories from these veterans on how they survived the war, and the role they played in the war. They want their stories to be heard, because they realize that in years to come when people have forgotten why they went to war, they want the reminder why we shouldn't have a repeat of the war. I miss riding my bike, being a messenger and being able to hear those stories for myself, as a reminder of what we overcame, but how important it is for future generations."
"What do you think your key takeaway is from being a messenger to now being a tribute to the Hunger Games? Did you pick up anything that can help you in the arena?"
"I've learned a lot on the outskirts which should serve well in the arena. I would love to tell, but I want to keep it as a surprise," Affluence said, smiling more.
Right then, a loud buzzer was heard and Circe silenced it.
"Well, that's all the time we have for you, Affluence. I wish you good luck in the arena," Circe said.
Affluence nodded and she headed off to the back of the stage, where they'd finish watching the interviews behind the stage on the TV that was on there.
"Our next tribute, also from District One, Merille Tesfa!"
Merille Tesfa came onto the stage, wearing a really well-looking suit. He was wearing all black, besides the tie being the color of red. He had a couple of roses pinned on him. He almost looked like he was going to a black-tie event than someone who would be entering the arena tomorrow. His short hair was still cropped short, but she could tell that his stylists may have added something glittery or something in his hair to cause it to shine like that.
"So, Merille… I assume you're the son of Commander Arlen Tesfa, correct?" Circe asked, studying him.
He sat tall in his chair, calm and composed but there was some sort of confidence that emitted him. The way he stood up right, to the way he was meeting her eyes when she set aside that question.
"That's correct," Merille said, rather shortly.
"He did a great honor in serving in the war and protecting Panem, as the country we know it. Did you have any hardships in knowing that your father was a commander of the District One army, and if that had any difference in your upbringing?"
Merille was rather quiet for a few before he managed to respond to her question,
"Having him as a father really made me the person I am today. He served our country, and he knew what the cost was. When he heard about the Games, it meant the world for him so he started training us with the swords and anything that we can get our hands on, really. While he wasn't always there because of the reminders of the war, he helped us in case we did go to the games or something else."
"So you have a strained relationship with him… Considering that you have told us that he encouraged you to fight and trained you with a lot of weapons as a result. I presume you would be using that to help you in your arena, but what would your strategy be in the arena?" Circe asked.
"You'll have to watch to find out. I don't want my other opponents to know what I'll be doing in the games, but I can tell you this: You can't beat the man who won't give up," Merille responded, having a small smile on the corner of his lips.
With that, the buzzer rang and Merille took his leave.
"Next we have Pandora Justice from District Two!"
Pandora Justice came onto the stage wearing a dazzling purple dress. It was floor-length and reached to her ankles despite her big structure in height, towering in what to be almost six feet in height. Realistically, everyone was tall considering that she was in a wheelchair and constantly had to look up at people in order to see their face (hence the wheelies at times. Although, those were just fun to do at times). Her dark brown hair was put up in a braid crown with her makeup being more heavy and dark looking with purple and black eyeshadow and mascara. She had on dark, black lipstick that made her look a little menacing.
"Considering that District Two has fared well off really well since the war. It's no wonder why you're so muscular. What did you do back home that caused you to be so tall and well… muscular?" Circe asked. "I'm sure we're all wondering that. No matter what I do to my upper body, I can't get what she has. It ain't easy always pushing yourself, and needing all that upper body strength if you need to do things." Circe let out a small, awkward laugh to ease the tension. Pandora didn't laugh with her, and instead responded as though she didn't hear Circe whatsoever.
"I wrestled a lot. It was something I picked up during the war in order to distract myself from the bombs raining down at times, or the sound of them. I realized that it was something I was quite good at, without really even trying. However, being a good wrestler meant that you have to have a good balanced diet and train a lot if you want to participate in a lot of weight divisionals to have a chance at winning," Pandora explained to her, smiling at the audience.
"I'm sure your wrestling skills are superb in your district. Do you feel like that might ruin your chances in the arena?"
"Not really, no. I'm not too worried about the games whatsoever… Besides, the games will be somewhat easy."
"I'm glad to hear it!"
The buzzer let out a loud buzz and Circe waved Pandora off the stage with a friendly goodbye before she made her introductions to the male tribute from District Two.
"Kairi Oriol from District Two!"
Kairi Oriol came on stage with a small smile on his lips. He sat down on the large, foldable, saucer chair, and leaned back. She could see his outfit very clearly as he was wearing smart, black trousers and a white collared-shirt along with a black tie tied around his desk.
"Thank you for joining us Kairi! I think your reaping moment probably had to be the most heartbreaking of them all, hearing your mom cry out and you desperately wanting someone to look after your mom. It really shows that you care. Can you tell us one of your favorite moments that you had with your mom?"
Kairi let out a small laugh before he answered, "Honestly there's so many. You know it's been me and my mom for pretty much the longest time ever since that unfortunate incident with my father. My mom really took care of me, considering we really had no one else. I think one of the best moments with my mom would probably be when it was my birthday…
"I was young. I don't remember how old I was turning, or really too much, but I can tell you this. My mom came home from work after working long hours at the hospital. She was tired, and had a rough day at work as she often does, considering the insults we get on a daily basis. I was a little bit under the weather, and somehow managed to develop a small fever. Both of us weren't in the mood to have cake, so instead we were watching anything that was interesting on TV and recreating our favorite parts. It was just us being silly, dressing up in whatever he had on the outfit, not caring if they matched or not. We'd make a mess, but we sang songs until we were too tired and fell asleep on the couch together. Me wrapped up in her arms." Kai explained with a wishful expression on his face.
"That's really sweet. I'm pretty sure most of us can relate to that. I do want to address this. It isn't a secret especially around here that your mom and you were exiled into District Two because of your father's actions. I think for a lot of us, we were wondering why you and your mom weren't executed on sight. Can you set the story straight?"
"I grew up on the outskirts of the Capitol. Not quite considered the Capitol, but not too far. My parents were both doctors, but when the war started that's when things changed a lot. First, my grandmother died so my parents took me to live with them in the apartment they were living in at the time. I was four years old. When the war happened, they were treating Capitol citizens until the war was over… This was where it was found that my father had been treating district soldier's on those who were on the rebellion side and they found that to be treacherous. We couldn't understand why, and realistically still don't. However, my mom and I were still loyal to the Capitol. We had nothing to do with his actions because to us, the Capitol provided everything and that was all we could ask for. They treated us well, so why would we want to rebel?
"We were sent to District Two after that. The ridicules never stopped, not when we realized what my father had caused. Protecting your family and giving to them is so important. In my opinion it's the most important achievement than worrying about one of your parents being a traitor. I won't let anyone stop me from accomplishing it," Kairi explained.
"Well, I wish you luck in the arena, Kairi."
Circe sent Kairi off as soon as the buzzer rang, and soon Veronica Alder from District Three came onto the stage. Her dark skin really made the outfit of her choice really pop. Not many people could pull off a dark orange mermaid-cut like dress that had no straps. She could tell there were white accents onto the dress. It seemed that her theme for tonight was on autumn colors from the way her dress looked and the way her makeup featured tones such as red, yellow and orange that gave her a fresh new look. She was really beautiful in that outfit.
"Veronica, welcome. I really have to say you look stunning in that dress. You know not many could pull off a look like that, because it looks really flattering on you," Circe started as soon as Veronica sat down on the white, saucer chair.
Veronica gave her a big smile that seemed very welcoming, "Thank you. My stylist thought it would look good, considering that my skin color allows for such bright things. Perhaps it's a reminder that there is always light at the end of the tunnel or something," Veronica shrugged, glazing up at the audience for a few seconds before returning her gaze back to Circe.
Circe let out a small chuckle, "Right where you are… How was your time in the Capitol? Is it the same expectations that you probably contained when you were back home in District Three."
"Honestly, I have to say it's nice. I don't think I have much expectations, because I never imagined I would be here, you know. I thought I would be with my uncle and my cousin, Nanette, back in District Three, where life was relatively easy. You know, the only thing I really had to worry about was if my uncle would be home in time for dinner, or worrying about grades," She responded.
"How does your family feel knowing that tomorrow you might be walking to your death?"
Veronica shrugged, "They were pretty heartbroken. I lost quite a bit of family members like my parents and my aunt during the war. It's only been me, my uncle and my cousin- just the three of us. Knowing that I am from an outside district will probably affect my chances, but I've always been an outsider. My family fell apart during the Dark Days, but I've survived. I guess I'm just… unlucky."
"Aw… I hope your luck turns around for you, Veronica. Thank you for your time, and I hope to see you at the very end," Circe said, once the time was up.
Veronica stepped off the stage, and disappeared behind the curtains before Breccan showed up, with a white cane in his hand. He was a rather slim boy that was only average height. His red hair somehow managed to match the extremely colorful frills and laces. There were an assortment of colors almost like he was a walking rainbow from hues of red, yellow, orange, blue and even green. Some of them were blended well together and were hard to see, but there were others that seemed to pop. IT almost seemed that most of his outfit just screams fun, and she felt the itch to touch the frills and laces to see what it was.
"Breccan, good to see you! I have to say your outfit really seems fun to wear," Circe joked.
Breccan let out a small chuckle, "Thanks. My stylists decided to make a fun outfit, considering that I can't see and all. They just wanted something people can see and think, wow this is a cool outfit."
Circe let out a small chuckle, "I believe it. At least your stylists were thinking about you and what you can do… You know Breccan, I am also disabled. I am paralyzed from the waist down so you can imagine the fun things that being in a chair is. I'm not going to ask how you became disabled, because no one needs to know why some of our bodies simply function differently than others, some more than others. We also, probably both know that the Capitol doesn't treat us disabled folks with respect. I am curious if there is something that you miss doing before you become blind?"
Oops, she wasn't supposed to say that the Capitol doesn't treat its disabled folks the best on TV, especially on camera when she knew the President was watching. She would probably be receiving several angry phone calls later, but that was for her future self to handle. Besides, sometimes they needed to hear that just because being disabled gave you some rights (like the right to marry and unlimited money assets)- they sometimes turned a blind eye to how they treated disabled folks.
"I don't remember much when I was able to see. However, I don't think it really disables me because I am still able to get around. I even help contribute to my family through working. I found myself a job just doing repetitive, tactile work. I don't mind it because frankly, I like the repetition knowing that it's the same thing every day and things don't change," Breccan responded.
"That's good for you. Sometimes, it's hard to find a job that is willing to give you accommodations and they respect it. I couldn't tell you how many times I've had people telling me, I'm too young to be in this situation or my personal favorite, are you sure you're not faking it. It's like people see a wheelchair and think it's reserved for the elderly and people who have injuries… What do you hope to achieve if you became a victor of the Hunger Games? Are you hoping that other kids who have disabilities will be able to win Games that don't seem plausible to do? "
Breccan let out a short laugh after the second question she posed in there, "I know I come from a disadvantaged background and considering my disability. It's probably very unlikely, however- I want to keep hope that I will be able to win. I know what I can do and that'll help me. If I win, well that's just excellent."
Breccan's timer went off, and he headed off the stage. Audrey came onto the stage after that, wearing a floor-length yellow, shimmery gown whose sparkles constantly shone, which also clung to every bit of curve. Audrey's blonde hair was slightly curled and wore very limited makeup.
"Audrey! It's good to see you. I have to say that dress looks very flattering on you," Circe said. "Not many tributes can pull off a yellow dress."
However, the more she looked at it, the more it looked really ugly on her considering she didn't have the skin color to rock it. It just made her look weird, but that wasn't her job to frown upon tribute's chosen outfit for this kind of night. It was her job to make sure he highlights all twenty-four tributes in an equal way to show these tributes off.
"Thank you. I really think it looks excellent and makes me glow," Audrey admitted after a couple of seconds. "You know that's the thing. Sometimes, in order to feel beautiful, you just have to try things that you don't necessarily do. It doesn't make you any better if you choose to wear makeup for example, with someone who doesn't. It all comes down to character, and your personality that will define you is beautiful."
"Well perfectly explained," Circe said.
Before Circe was able to tell her another question, Audrey leaned in close and said in a loud voice,
"Another thing: I just love that glow of motherhood. Can you see it? Oh wait, I forgot to tell you I'm pregnant!" Audrey revealed in a loud, excited voice.
Massive shouts and yells were heard as many of the Capitolites went crazy. It's funny how they cared more about unborn fetuses than actual children's lives, Circe thought to herself. She could barely make out what they were saying, but it sounded like they were upset about it.
"Congratulations! That's very exciting and potentially very nerve-wracking, considering you'll be going to the games, pregnant… Is your baby's father out there watching? Perhaps you'd like to say goodbye to them?" Circe suggested.
"You know, I don't think there is anyone I need to say goodbye to. I already said all my goodbyes to the people that were important back at the Justice Building back home. Whether or not I said goodbye to the father of my baby remains between me alone," Audrey replied.
"Again, congratulations on the very unexpected announcement and I wish you the best in winning the Hunger Games," Circe told her as soon as the excitement of the pregnancy wore down, and she sent her to join the rest of the tributes backstage once the timer went off.
Next was Brine Clemont who wore a simple dark blue dress shirt which rippled when he sat down that revealed a good chunk of his chest. He also wore dark black pants, that gave almost an illusion like he represented the ocean.
"Brine! It's good to see you! I have to say that your outfit for tonight really feels like you're the ocean. Was that the desired effect, or was it just a simple outfit that your stylists went on about?" Circe questioned, starting off with a question that was on her mind.
Brine let out a laugh, "Honestly, you can think like it was the desired effect. I really wanted to show that I am from District Four, and when you think of District Four- you think about the ocean. The colors that I wore on my outfit shows the different colors of the ocean starting from the dark blue that you see down to the black that is meant to signify the bottom of the ocean."
"Ooh nice. Is there anything that you love about the ocean, or perhaps you just spend a lot of time in it for the fun of it. I'm pretty sure you might consider it, since it gets crazy hot in the summer," Circle said. "I constantly feel like my skin feels all sticky and gross. I don't know how you're able to stand it."
"Not really. I'm not a huge fan of water. Don't get me wrong, I still go in it, but I'm more cautious. I think knowing that only a couple of years ago, my mom got stung by a jellyfish on our boat. It also puts into perspective how big and vast the ocean is, and represents the big unknown. I also think the ocean makes you stop and consider that the world is bigger."
"Is that the reason why you volunteered?"
"Not really. I didn't want to see the guy who got reaped, unable to see his unborn child. It wouldn't have been possible if I'm not standing on the shoulders of giants, feeling like everything is miniscule."
Well, that was a strange metaphor and had no idea what he meant, she thought to herself. She smiled and wished him good luck as soon as his time was up.
The District Five girl- Kalia Haynes entered onto the stage. She wore a rather different outfit than pretty much everyone she had already seen with her black, bodycon dress that hid her arms and legs. She also had matching black heels, but she wasn't showing anything or had any color to her. The only color she had, besides her features, was the silver chain necklace she had around her neck.
"Kalia! Welcome. Wow, I have to say you look really different," Circe started. "I don't think I've seen anyone wearing an outfit that comes close to yours."
"Thank you. You know I really like the dress you're wearing. The mint green look really flatters you, along with your auburn hair. You know I haven't seen that too much when I got to the Capitol," Kalia said, with a small smile on her face.
"Aww thank you… Speaking of the Capitol? How are you liking it? Have you found something really cool that probably isn't present back home, in District Five?"
Kalia turned her attention to the audience and said, "The Capitol is very nice. It's very different from what I am used to. I don't think I've ever seen how much food there is, all in one place. It's been an amazing experience- just living one floor that is pretty much to yourself and having seen so many experiences. It's no wonder why so many people would want to live in the Capitol." She let out a small laugh before continuing, "What I've heard, it really doesn't put it into justice how cool this place is."
Circe let out a small laugh, "I guess living in the Capitol makes you immune to see all the beauty. Perhaps it is better to see it with a fresh pair of eyes. Besides the Capitol being nice, is there something that you wish that people would understand about you or how anyone might think is a weakness in the Games?"
"There's no harm in being nice. Feeling accepted and wanted is one of the best things," Kalia admitted after some thought. "Being nice isn't a bad thing, nor is being trustworthy. It makes you feel loved and accepted. There's nothing horrible about those two things."
"Well said. I wish you luck in the arena," Circe told her as soon as Kalia's time was done. She said goodbye and wished her luck in the arena before the next tribute heeded onto the stage.
Killian Swan- man there were so many K names for District Five this year- entered onto the stage. He had a simple outfit- yet fancy outfit wearing a black blazer and pants with a white shirt that was tucked into his pants. He sat up straight and looked her right into her eyes.
"Killian, wow, it's really exciting to meet you! You really made an impression on yourself, from volunteering for that kid and earning a seven! You really want people to pay attention while you enter the arena," Circe started, before diving into her question, "When you volunteered- did you know the kid? Was there any particular reason why you did it?"
Killian didn't miss a beat as he responded to her question, "It's because I always wanted to see the Capitol and know why it's so amazing," Killian started, letting out a small laugh. A few others from the audience did too, before he continued on, "Nah… I'm kidding. I didn't know him. I felt bad because he was only a little kid- twelve years old you know. He just started life, probably only in middle school or something. He had his whole life ahead of him. He doesn't deserve what would have happened to him if he was in the arena."
"Oh, so you felt bad for him. Honestly, I do agree with that. Twelve years old are really just starting life. I always feel bad for them when they get reaped, knowing it's a death sentence. Granted, I cry every year knowing that twenty three tributes will die in a senseless act. It hurts knowing that all you guys are just kids who were brought up into senseless violence, with something- no one asked for."
Oh, shit. She realized that she messed up as soon as those words came tumbling out of her mouth. She was too careless, too senseless. She messed up big time. It was her job as the Master of Ceremonies to remain impassive, and avoid saying anything opinionated that criticized the Capitol or what you thought about the Hunger Games. If she wasn't going to get several angry phone calls before this, now she was. She could also be turned into an avox, and get fired from her job.
It was probably best if she steered clear on anything else as she finished Killian's interview.
"Can we talk about your score? I don't think we were expecting for you to get a seven like that. What's your secret?"
"I didn't get my training scores by charming the game makers, I do have a few tricks up my sleeve."
Well it was a good thing to know. She knew he wasn't going to reveal what he did to deserve the score, but perhaps- there were plenty of cards up his sleeve and getting his score was one of them. There was one thing for sure, she wouldn't be surprised if he displayed his true antics in the arena and could potentially win the games.
She bid goodbye to Killian when the buzzer went off, once the three minutes were up. Killian headed off the stage and Joette Tauruaia took his place. Joette was tiny, and wore a bright red dress that only reached her knees with simple, black flats. Her hair was put up in two pigtails as she displayed a dazzling smile to the crowd and to her.
"Joette, nice to meet you! Love the outfit, it really feels like you're a flame," Circe told her.
"Thank you," she murmured. "My stylist thought it would best represent me. Red often signals things like anger, strength, and courage, among other things. I like to think of it as it reminds me of the times when I rode in the firetruck back home."
"Oh- your parents are firefighters?" Circe asked.
Joette nodded before she answered, "Among other things… Red just means strength and how much strength and courage I bring along with me. You see, I'm a boxer. I've been boxing since I was nine. Boxing meant that I could be as strong as my daddy, who coaches other boxing players back home."
"Did you win any competitions? I assume you did because you are very well built and in good shape," Circe asked.
"I did… I won several competitions with several medals and trophies on my shelf. I was going to enter into another boxing competition that was the weekend after the reaping, but unfortunately I was reaped. I was looking forward to it. I'd been training hard for it," Joette responded quietly.
"That bites, I know how you feel. It really bites when you can't do something that you've been looking forward to doing due to unforeseen circumstances," Circe told her, feeling very sorry for her. The girl sounded like she was heartbroken about it, too. "What do you want to say about the young girls who inspire to become a boxer, who think they can't do it?"
"I want to tell them this: you can. You don't have to follow your family's expectations or anything like that. You can do anything if you put your mind to it. When I started, I said I wanted to be strong like Daddy, but a lot of people doubted me because I'm a girl. I never gave up on my dreams, and here I am, proving them all wrong."
Circe continued to ask Joette questions about her boxing before the buzzer went off.
"Thank you, Joette, for your inspiring words. Good luck tomorrow," Circe wished her good luck and Joette went off stage.
Her district partner, Casey Cormone, replaced her and simply moved slowly as he shuffled his feet across the stage, looking down towards the floor. She noticed that he tried to make himself as small as possible, curling up into the seat, clutching his knees together, staring ahead. Casey wore a simple outfit of it being the color of dark green and black and barely paid attention as she tried asking questions.
"Casey, are you okay?" Circe had to ask when she realized that he wasn't answering any of her questions and was just simply staring off into space. "I know this is very scary for you. It's scary for everyone."
"What did you say?" He asked, and Circe repeated her question again.
"I-I'm fine," he murmured.
Circe took a deep breath, "How about this? Why don't you describe one thing that makes you happy? Maybe it'll help you calm down, and ground yourself, or try the grounding technique: five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste?"
"I can try the first option," Casey murmured. After a while, he finally answered, I'm s-s-surounded by a bunch of c-c-cats in an alley, on the porch of my house.. They are different species like Siamese, Maincoon, tabby, a Birman, American shorthair et cetera. Most of them are right next to me, purring as they I give them the attention they desperately love. Nearby, th-there is a bowl of wet cat food, and water nearby in metal dishes for them to eat. They surround me, purring against my leg, begging for the attention- they rightfully deserve." By the very end, Casey sounded calm and collected. His voice sounded a little more confident instead of sounding weak and stumbling over words.
"There you go… What's your favorite cat species and why?"
"I don't think I really have a favorite cat species. I think the one I really like the most is probably the Siamese. Mainly how they have a different color combination such as brown and white. Sometimes, they have brown on their boots and a marking on their face. They also have striking, blue eyes that make you feel like they know what you are talking about. I don't see them too much back home, and haven't adopted one- but maybe in the future, if I return back home."
"Aww. I really hope you can go back home and adopt a Siamese cat," Circe reassured him right before the buzzer went off and Casey headed off the stage.