{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough>

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Lulu
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{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 8, 2010 20:19:01 GMT -5

Post by Lulu on Sept 8, 2010 20:19:01 GMT -5

.:.:.:.:.:.:.
don't pretend
you'll ever forget
about me
.:.:.:.:.:.:.

When it came, far too early for her liking, Topaz did not welcome the rapping on her door. The shrill sound echoed around her luxurious sleeping quarters rather obnoxiously, and the red-haired tribute shoved her head under her pillow in disgust. Maybe if she ignored it for long enough the source of the rapping would evaporate...no, a repeat of the noise reached her ears and she groaned. "Go away."

[/color] Her voice was muffled by the pillow concealing her face. Really, why start training at ten in the morning, anyway? Couldn't it wait till noon, so they could eat lunch and then go for a good work out? She hardly ever woke up until ten, anyway.

Lack of sleep. That was going to be one of her biggest issues in the arena.

She tried to tell herself that it would be her only one. She was a Career; she was trained. She'd spend half her life in that District One gym, though many had said she wouldn't be able to do it. She'd been dubbed too much of a 'girl'....and other, more insulting words of that nature. It had only gotten worse when she'd actually begun serious training, at the age of twelve, with the other more ferocious Careers her age. Taunts came from every direction, whispers that she wasn't strong enough, wasn't fast enough, wasn't good enough. Of course, that had only made her pick up an épée and prove them wrong. So really, she was highly trained, up there with the best of them. Her weaknesses? Well, other than arrogance (even she would admit her ego was slightly more inflated than was necessary) she couldn't think of many.

Although there was the food problem. Coming from a wealthy family in the richest district there was, Topaz Ross had never been hungry a day in her life. Her slimness was due to her training, not because she ever particularly watched what she ate. Three courses for dinner, every night she was home rather than out somewhere, courtesy of their family's personal chef. (Topaz's finicky mother was very picky about preparing her own food) Smaller yet still filling meals for breakfast and lunch. She rarely snacked, but that was just by personal choice. She was used to a full stomach, and had never experienced life without one. Unfortunately, though, in the arena you spent a hell of a lot of time with an empty stomach. She'd have to practice getting by without much food.

Starting now.

seasons change but people don't
&& i'll always be waiting in the back room
i'm boring but overcompensate with
headlines and flash flash flash photography

[/color]
"I won't be eating breakfast today."[/color] Half an hour later Topaz, fully showered, clothed, and presentable though still somewhat irritated, emerged into the dining room of the exquisite first floor of the Training Center. Though the view was not as nice as it was from the top, supposedly, it was right in the thick of the excitement, which was exactly where the seventeen-year-old loved to be.

"Why ever not?" District One's escort, a woman called Carmel who had obviously elected to far too much plastic surgery and hated dirt of any kind, looked at her with a bewildered expression. Tope wasn't particularly fond of Carmel; the Capitol woman wasn't the kind of person she normally got along with. Not to mention the accent, which annoyed her to no end.

"Not hungry."[/color] Topaz kept her explanation short and to the point. She wasn't going to reveal her newest training tactic to anyone, for fear of them forcing some kind of substantial meal down her throat. "But--" Carmel's voice rose in surprise, but was interrupted when her female charge cut her off. "Not hungry."[/color] Carmel looked even more astonished for a second, if that was possible, but bounced back immediately. "Of course, it must be the nerves talking. I'd be scared stiff too, if it were my first day of training." The woman smiled an enormous, clearly false grin. "Just let me know if you want something to eat!" Carmel took off down the hall as she finished speaking, failing to notice the fuming expression that had crossed Topaz's features at the implication that she was 'scared stiff'. Scared stiff? Far from it.

The Career meandered idly around the floor, examining the eccentric Capitolites passing by outside. The windows were tinted, so while she could see out it was impossible to look in. This was probably a good feature to have, because the people of the Capitol treated Hunger Games tributes as if they were celebrities, and no doubt being able to see into the Training Center would cause a riot in some areas.

The other tribute of her district...Timothy, his name was, was nowhere to be found. She hadn't seen him since they'd exited the chariot from the Opening Ceremonies the night before and parted ways. Topaz had briefly considered the possibility of enlisting him as an ally; he was certainly competent enough to fight alongside her. But she'd pushed that idea away quickly; despite the tough facade she put on, she was hesitant to team up with someone from home; it would only trigger memories, both happy and sad, that she was trying desperately to forget. She needed to forget all bonds, all emotional ties, and a District One ally would make that harder to do. Emotions were deadly in the arena; they ultimately killed you.

they say your head can be a prison
then these are just conjugal visits
people will dissect us till it
doesn't mean a thing anymore[/color]

When the time came to go down to the gym, Topaz already felt adrenaline rushing through her veins. She ignored the rest of the District One motley crew and instead thought about the stations in which she would train in. Her particular favorite from home was anything involving swords and other bladed weapons; though she had a fair amount of strength from her years as a Career, she was not as strong as she was accurate and agile. But then again, why not practice things that were not her forte? It was so hard to decide on a strategy, even prior to the Games' official start.

By the time the elevator came to a stop Tope's brilliant Careerlike strategy was to 'screw it and try everything'. It wasn't a bad one, in her opinion, if not particularly resourceful; it would expose her to all aspects of survival, so when the time came she would be capable of making an educated decision as to what her real Games strategy would be. So, when she entered the gym she headed for the first training station she saw.

It was a long morning, and even Topaz herself, so used to this kind of thing, was tired by the time she headed into the Dining Hall with the rest of the tributes for lunch. She hadn't gotten a chance to scope out her opponents yet, she'd been far too busy with the stations. But lunch? Well, that was the perfect time.

Because she wouldn't be eating, of course.

.:.:.:.:.:.:.
we're trapped && well concealed
in secret places
we don't fight fair

[/color][/size]
.:.:.:.:.:.:.

ooc-Team Strike~~out~~through ftw.[/justify][/blockquote][/center][/color]

Last Edit: Sept 9, 2010 11:07:47 GMT -5 by Lulu

{lulu's cast}

aya
Administrator

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"GUNNERRRRR~"

{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 9, 2010 15:35:24 GMT -5

Post by aya on Sept 9, 2010 15:35:24 GMT -5

Tell me when you think that we became so unhappy
Wearing silver rings with nobody clapping
When we moved here together we were so disappointed
Sleeping out of tune with our dreams disjointed

Nash Harvey —

It was easy for Nash to get used to spending her time in the Capitol. She'd been used to waking up in different places after she'd left home. All the unfamiliar places she'd wake up in, however, were somehow infinitely more comforting than the luxurious room in the training center. Friends' sofas, Noam's house, awnings, warehouses — hell, even the morgue where her cousin worked was more of a comfort than the too-large living quarters.

Although the morgue did manage to come close. After all, the two buildings served similar purposes: people were brought to one after they died, and the other people were brought to when they were as good as dead. The tribute center was little more than a hospice; it was just there to make them all a bit more comfortable in their last few weeks before death.

The only difference was that the inhabitants of the building Nash was living in now were more or less healthy (physically, anyhow.) Their was nothing wrong with them, save for the fact that they'd all been chosen at random (or, mostly random; there's no denying that half of Panem must be suspicious of Capitol intervention in the case of Anani Petros, as Nash was) to be marked with a black spot — one which stood for death.

Nash didn't exactly know how to take the sentence. She was supposed to charge into the Arena with gusto, like a good little Career tribute was expected to. Supposed to find the other Careers beforehand, make an arrangement for an alliance. Turn on them eventually, when the other tributes were just faces in the sky. She was supposed to fight ruthlessly, viciously, hated by all but her own district. And she was supposed to love every minute of it.

But Nash had known long ago that she wasn't a good little Career tribute. She'd been resistant to the very idea of being a good little Career tribute since her mother dragged her to her first training session — first unofficial training session, that is; Nash was now largely ignoring the official one that was going on all around her. As a smaller child, Nash had dragged her heels every time her mother had tried to get her out of the house for Career training, though not because she didn't enjoy it, per se. The teen had always been resistant to anything her mother came up with.

During the first general training session, Nash did little more than observe. She halfheartedly listened as the instructor showed her how to make a fire out of natural resources — she'd need some survival skill on her side, after all — but was focused more on the other tributes. It wasn't skill that Nash needed — she had enough weapons training to get by, for now — but allies. She looked to the other Career districts, One, her counterpart from Two, and Four first and foremost — because that's what a good little Career was supposed to do, right?

She didn't find the male Careers all that impressive ~~surprise, surprise~~ — they were big guys, sure, and strong looking, but Nash didn't get a good vibe. Too… arrogant, she thought. Too serious, maybe. She couldn't bring herself to trust them — not that she trusted any of the tributes, of course. That was just plain stupid. As she scanned the room, a few other faces stood out, ones Nash remembered from their respective Reapings: the Career girl from District 1, who'd volunteered to take her sister's place, and, of course, Anani Petros, the big brother of last year's victor. Poor guy. There was no way the Capitol would let District 12 win for the third year in a row, even if this kid looked at least six times more physically capable than its two recent victors.

Even so, Nash didn't know who to approach as the tributes filed in to the dining hall for lunch after the morning's training session. Some looked exhausted from the hours of physical exertion, yet Nash, who had expended very little energy in her half-hearted attempts to light a fire using two sticks, could 'train' as she had been for hours more. It was time, however, she decided, to start approaching potential allies. The Two, of course, could not wait to voice their opinions.

Oh, look at that poor little girl, she looks so scared and lonely. Maybe you should look out for her, she needs someone to look out for her, I bet. That's completely ridiculous. Get some muscle, get some brains, but for the love of Ripred get someone who has
some value! Look, look at him, the big dude. Bet he could crush skulls with his fists! Yes, I'm sure he could.

[/i]Yours. No, look at that one, all by themselves—[/color] [/blockquote][/i]

It went back and forth for quite awhile, until the Two had evaluated every tribute in the room at least once over. They, naturally, never agreed on a single one, forcing Nash to do her best to block them out (which never worked) and settle on a tribute while they listed all the reasons why it was a bad idea. It seemed the only time they could agree was when they were disagreeing with Nash. One such time was when she'd started moving in the direction of Anani Petros. The protests from both sides were instantaneous:

Bad idea, skippy. He doesn't look very friendly. He'll give you an unnecessary target on your back, for sure. The Capitol wants him dead, probably, you'll be on their radar the whole time! And you certainly don't need
them trying to take you down along with the rest of the Arena.[/color][/blockquote][/i]

Nash sighed. She, like the rest of Panem for certain, couldn't help but be interested in the Petros boy. His sister was popular among the people, even as victors go. No one could help but feel bad for the little girl, Nash had realized, and as their alliance fell under attack and Anani fell into trouble, the sponsor money was sure to pour in. But if the Two didn't see this just yet, Nash would have to make due with a second choice.

Her eyes fell on the girl District 1, an edge of determination in her own gaze that confused her at first. But then, allies were important for many of the past victors, ones from Career districts especially; of course it was important that Nash not screw this up.

She approached the other girl as nonchalantly as possible, but was certain that her intent was clear. "So, I figure the past two victors owed a large part of winning to their allies," she started, a knot in her stomach forming, which Nash attributed to hunger. She still hadn't grabbed any food. "And the way I see it, if you've got someone competent to watch your back, you'd stand a better chance." Short, concise, and to the point. Nash would let the other girl fill in the blanks, to actually be the one to ask and answer Nash's question — Will you be my ally? — just in case the answer was no. Rejection was less embarrassing when you could deny the question was even put forward.
[/blockquote][/size][/color]

{characters}

certified kindergartener
stranded in "beach" "city"
leader of the crystal gems

Prince Inigo
Retired Staff

[M:-2830]

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Your Rightful King!

{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 9, 2010 17:31:33 GMT -5

Post by Prince Inigo on Sept 9, 2010 17:31:33 GMT -5

Takeba Suzumi
here she is!

Capitol living was far exquisite, Takeba had to admit - graciously - to her mental reserves. Posh furniture was definitely its own style, much like the different skin colors other than the shades between albino-white and almost-black brown. Some were green, some purple - which, she had to be honest to herself, made her flush a slight crimson at the sight of her hair color on someone's skin - to various degrees, and her eyes had laid upon nice shades of blue, a few hues reminiscent of District 4 sea. People - with their, also, modified colored eyes - had stolen glances at the District 4 female Tribute, perhaps perplexed by the audacity of some District scum dying their strands. She did not mind. Takeba smiled just as she always did to reassure her attitude was balanced and fair.

Thinking about strange pigmentation randomly got the girl to question the Capitol's supposed refined palette. Banquets full of luxurious soups and chowders, lip-smacking cooked meats, the succulent fruits and vegetables that many would die for. Back in school, the fifteen-year old would hear the tales of the pompous Capital denizens partaking in the richest meals yet leaving leftover provisions - or thin air, for the worst of times - to the District resident. The embitter fighting for food is the neverending clash between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat, classes of very distinct tastes and labors, the elitist that win over the poor. The minor but wealthy shall proclaim land and seize the fruits of work from the peasants and middle-class. Such an incident is an unfortunate side to humanity.

Walking and pondering, Takeba hardly noticed the building before her was the destination finally met. Since the reaping, there was not much time to spend on one's thoughts, having to cooperate between eating with your District partner on the train ride and keeping notions about possible training. She had not even checked upon her petty emotions, bearing little impact on her persona. Smiles crept on her face during the penultimate event announcing certain death - physically or otherwise. Hopefully such an action would not invite rumors for the young girl. During her short intervals where she was promised to think in her mental haven, the girl of District 4 decided to try out the food in a location away from her partner. There was no opinion of him as of right now, but she thought it would best to get herself to a different dining environment.

Grinning falsely, she entered the building, taking note of the coldness of the doors. After walking a mentally-mapped distance to the dining room, lips parted slightly in seeing two other persons already near the table. Though not feeling anything but pure surprise, Takeba had the suspicion to believe that she would have been alone to say thanks to the chef and think, finally, to herself whilst partaking in good bread and wine. (Drinking alcoholic beverages was more of a homage to the people rather than doing so in taste; to be honest, she did not particularly like sipping bitter drinks). At the moment, the room was only filled with females - not saying much as there was only three parties present, if each person was their own party.

Takeba walked, no difference in posture or behavior, to the dining table. By watching the reaping recaps, she had properly distinguished the ladies - District 1's and District 2's Tributes. By the cautions of all below these two numbers, they were a force to watch for, yet she felt nothing but a welcoming smile come on. Absent of any real fear but the mannerisms to say a friendly greeting, Takeba was. During the short journey, she had put away in her banks that the atmosphere was - as she guessed - excellent and perfect to carry out splendid conversations.

She stopped right across from the girls, and took a humble bow, instilling the gesture with her utmost gracious emotion she could muster. "Good morning to the both of you, District 1's female Tribute and District 2's female Tribute. I do hope the early day has been wonderful to your beings. May we enjoy a meal together, I earnestly hope, for I would hate to assume that we are certainly willing to eat at the same table." Takeba erectd her posture, then blinked. "Ah... I also do pray that was not taken in any wrong manner. I do not wish to displease anyone." The girl just stood there behind a chair; next she would ask the girls if she could be seated.

(Yaaaaay. First Takeba post in a while and Team Strike~~out~~through!)

ƠᴥƠ

8/8/10: Made moddemon (666 pc)

pH: f*** that s**t, luna! ***** bitch douche.

ALICE: Remove these shorts of obfuscation and let us gaze upon it-this so-called "hose"!

Alice, I hate you, but this quote is so... so... *dies*

Kevin
Hunter

[M:500]

76 POSTS
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Family is the halcyon wind among the chaotic discord of the world.

{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 10, 2010 20:53:09 GMT -5

Post by Kevin on Sept 10, 2010 20:53:09 GMT -5

Anani Petros

Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality.

Why do I have to die? When am I going to die? How am I going to die? I don't want to die. I really do not want to die.

Anani sat on the comfortable bed as he mulled over the entangled thoughts in his mind. The past few days had been a blur for him, as each passing day chipped away closer to his imminent death. The magniloquent surroundings didn't help much either to ease that feeling of foreboding doom. Normally, he would have been astounded and amazed at the degree of luxury in the Capitol, but in these circumstances, nothing excited him.

The train ride had been excruciatingly painful, as he tried to eat every meal next to his sister. He forced to pretend and reassure her that he would come back to her, and that everything would return to normal. Lying had become a daily habit again for Anani. Of course, there was nothing but sincere and compassionate intent, but there never had been malicious intent in the past either. There was no difference from this time or from the past when he told Nisa that he would not leave her. Whenever he thought back to this, guilt encompassed his thoughts once more accompanied by a mien full of grief, pain, and even anger.

Of course, Nisa hadn't been the only painful part of the train ride. He couldn't forget about watching Ocean everyday. Like the others, he had been shocked when she had volunteered to become a tribute. He couldn't understand the amount of compassion and love it would take to give one's life for someone else's, especially since that the person Ocean gave her life for was somebody she wasn't close to. Even though she was deaf, Anani could still see the liveliness in her step. And because he sympathized with her, he knew enough to stay away. He knew more than enough to not become close to her. Any relation to her would hinder him. If he allied with her, he would only watch her die, or be killed off himself first. And the thought of watching such a dainty girl die...

Arbor had been the only comfort on the train, and even though they didn't talk much, his silence was in some sense, more beneficial to Anani. With this, Anani hoped that maybe, just maybe, that his sister and Arbor put together would be able to help him live long enough. Hope was still there. Hope. He would hope and he would try his best. He wasn't about to go down without a fight. And after all, he had promised his sister that he would always be there for her.

After he was done ruminating about the train ride, Anani brusquely got up and walked out of his room in a storm of determination. He had not planned to eat lunch with the other tributes but if mingling along with other people meant that he would have a better chance of keeping his promise, he decided that it was worth whatever amount of discomfort that would accompany social contact. The elevator ride was short and quick, which left him little time to ponder about his next plan of action. As he ruffled his air in frustration, he walked into the dining room and gave a quick scan of the tributes in there. Seeing how he was late, he saw that the room was already moderately filled as the mostly ravenous tributes dug into the delectable food that the Capitol had provided them.

He looked over each tribute that was in the dining room, as he assessed how each of them would fare in an alliance. Just as he looked over some intimidating guys that were much, much taller than him, he got a glimpse of three girls chatting at one of the tables. Even without the persuasion of his male hormones, his gaze was completely fixed on the girls for a minute. It wasn't just the fact that they were pretty, but more so because they made quite an interesting combination. One had light purple hair with the eyes to match, while another had red-orange hair with bright golden eyes. A girl with dark brown hair and foreboding dark brown eyes topped off the dazzling group. He remembered them all from the opening ceremony, seeing how they were hard to miss. All three of them were each distinct careers. All three of them, to the extent of his knowledge, were probably better trained than him. And much to his self-disparage, all three would probably tease him if he said much of a word in their direction.

Should I go up to them? They're my best bet for survival... But how do I know that they won't just kill me as soon as I'm alone with them? Or what if they already have a full alliance? I'm hopeless. They probably think of me as the unlucky older brother of the past year's victor who is going to be shot down by the Gamemakers as soon as they have a chance. And honestly, what's to stop them from thinking that? They'd probably be right to think of it that way anyhow. But still... I need to try. Come on Anani, get over yourself, get over your selfish and self conscience thoughts. At least do it for Nisa. Come on, you can do it, just go and ask them. Remember to just breathe and talk slowly. The worst they can do is reject you and tell you to go away.

Anani shuddered as he disregarded the creeping thought that they could do much worse things than ostracize him. Without a moments hesitation, he told his feet to move forward. "Hey... erm... girls. I'm Anani Petros from District 12, and I was wondering if you would be interested in an alliance." As he mentally barraged himself with self-deprecating insults for his terrible opener, he forced himself not to cringe. If he was going to make this work, he would need to show them that he would be able to handle himself in any situation. So without further hesitation, he gave his best attempt to give a confident smile. Of course, whether he knew it or not, it was bound to come out as a failure, especially for a kid who hadn't had social contact with anybody, nonetheless girls for that matter, for the duration of his life. All he could do was smile and wait, and that's exactly what he did.

Last Edit: Sept 10, 2010 20:53:46 GMT -5 by Kevin

Lulu
Retired Staff

[M:2982250]

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{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 11, 2010 14:56:00 GMT -5

Post by Lulu on Sept 11, 2010 14:56:00 GMT -5

Despite the gnawing hunger that was eating at her, Topaz wouldn't allow herself to touch a piece of food. There was a rather fabulous array of the stuff spread in front of her, too, about ten different kinds of meat sliced into perfectly symmetrical circles, individualized rolls from every district, various stews and soups (-snicker-) in pristinely polished dishes, and even cakes and pies for afterwards. The Career female couldn't help but sneer, though; it was as if the Capitol were trying to fatten their tributes up like lambs for the slaughter. Of course, she reminded herself, that's exactly what they're doing. Every single teenager in this room was no more than an offering to the vicious Hunger Games gods.

She seated herself at a round table in a centralized location, perfect for scoping out the other tributes. Her mentor had instructed her to find allies; strong allies, capable allies, allies that would get her far in the Games. Past the Bloodbath and to the greater things beyond. She had to set an example and be the perfect Career, doing everything her mentor told her, showing off in training, being arrogant, scaring off everyone who wasn't worthy enough. "The one you truly want for your alliance will come to you." Hopefully that bit of advice would prove to be true.

A few minutes later she could see that it was working. As she sat in one spot, observing her surroundings, she caught sight of a girl coming towards her. She looked to be around the same age, maybe slightly older. Topaz recognized her from the Opening Ceremonies; she was the Career from Two. Admittedly she didn't look particularly Careerlike; kind of frazzled, really. But she was a Career all the same, the kind of person Topaz was supposed to ally with. And sure enough, as soon as the girl reached her she began to speak. Something about allies being important, though she did not come right out and ask if Tope would like to form an alliance. Before she could answer, though, someone else appeared.

This girl was hard to forget, with hair of such a vibrant shade. She was the girl from District Four, another Career. The seventeen-year-old couldn't help but smirk. Fortune did have a way of finding you when you weren't looking for it.

This one had an odd way of speaking, though. She sounded something like her sister Sapphire after the she-brainiac had been reading a dictionary for about three hours straight. She would spit out complicated terminology for the rest of the night, just as a part of regular conversation, until Topaz was ready to behead the girl. The Career female in front of her sounded something like that, going as far as to call them "District One's female tribute and District Two's female tribute". And then she suggested they "enjoy a meal together?" Tope raised an eyebrow. "Um...sure?" She shrugged at two of the seats at her table, inviting the other female tributes to sit down. Then she began to think.

The Two Career female was probably the most likely ally she was going to get at this point, despite the fact that there was something slightly...odd about her. Like she was carrying a secret that only she knew. But then again, everyone had their secrets. She had to be a competent fighter, regardless. She was from Two, after all. Then there was the District Four girl. Though she didn't seem like an average Career, her obvious intelligence would be invaluable in the face of the many challenges of the Arena. "Are you smart? You look smart. You must be smart, right?"

[/color] With a slight smirk, Topaz addressed the Four tribute. Pehaps she could have chosen more eloquent words, but those would suffice.

Before she could get a chance to properly invite the two of them into an alliance, another person showed up. It was impossible for anyone to not know who he was. Anani Petros, District Twelve, brother of the little twelve-year-old victor of the 55th, Aranica. And he wanted to ally with three Career females? Was he serious?

She was about to retort angrily, or maybe ask him if he was joking. But some small part of her mind made her stop to think for a second. While the Gamemakers would never let another District Twelve win, Anani would be a crowd favorite. He'd get sponsors. And being in a heavily sponsored alliance could sometimes make all the difference in the Games. Plus he looked like he would prove to be a fair fighter as well. So, making a split second decision and not letting herself question it, Topaz gave a sly smirk in Anani's direction."You don't mess around, do you?"[/color] She laughed. "So what makes you think you'd be a good addition to a Career alliance?"[/color] She would take him, of course, and she was sure the other two would agree. But it wouldn't hurt to see what he thought he could bring to the table.

"But yes, now that it's been brought up, what would you all think of an alliance? I feel it'd be the intelligent way to go in this situation."[/color] She gestured for Anani to sit in the remaining empty seat at the small table for four. "I'm Topaz, by the way. Topaz Ross."[/color][/color]

ooc-Ahh, crappost. I apologize. D:[/blockquote][/size][/justify]

{lulu's cast}

aya
Administrator

6,261 POSTS
last seen Sept 15, 2024 22:06:23 GMT -5

"GUNNERRRRR~"

{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 11, 2010 16:29:50 GMT -5

Post by aya on Sept 11, 2010 16:29:50 GMT -5

You've been living a while in the front of my skull, making orders
You've been writing me rules, shrinking maps and redrawing borders
I've been repeating your speeches, but the audience just doesn't follow
Because I'm leaving out words, punctuations, and it sounds pretty hollow

Nash Harvey —

It disappointed Nash that she hadn't even gotten a response from the girl — Topaz, she'd called herself — before not one but two other people showed up to add themselves to the conversation. The first, Nash recognized by her purple hair: this was the girl tribute from District Four. Was she a Career tribute, too? Nash couldn't really tell, but even coming from a typically Career district was enough to give a tribute an advantage over the rest. They were better fed, better taken care of, and, why deny it — the Career atmosphere affected everyone, even those who didn't train, or train regularly.

The girl from four spat out a mouthful of words — damn, they didn't all talk like that from Four, did they? — that took Nash awhile to break down into more digestible sentences. If she meant to talk like that in the Arena, Nash would guarantee that someone would die for failure to communicate promptly enough. She'd worked out the meaning around the same time Topaz did, it seemed — that she wanted to eat with the both of them — as the District One tribute gestured for the two to have a seat.

Nash didn't hesitate: feeling edged out of the conversation by this newcomer, she seated herself with a mild amount of force next to the girl from One. She'd approached the other girl first, and not the girl from Four. Didn't want any competitors for her ally, and if this purple-haired tribute was going to threaten Nash's chances at having Topaz as an ally, well, there would be an issue.

Minor resentment over being edged out of the conversation aside, Nash decided that the female tribute from Four wouldn't make a bad ally, either. Topaz was right, Nash decided after snorting at the other Career's remark — the purple-haired girl did seem to have an air of intelligence about her. Was that not the reason why Nash was avoiding the male Careers this year? Because didn't seem too bright? Intelligence was certainly a useful trait in an ally, especially when it came down to the survival aspects of the Games — the aspects in which Nash herself wasn't very knowledgeable. She'd meant to have Topaz, but if the tribute from Two could have both girls as allies, it would be for the better, she figured.

I don't trust her. You don't trust anyone. You trust everyone far too easily. Sometimes you have to trust people! But you can't trust anyone, not in the Games. Because everyone's competing with everyone — it can't be any different than that. But it can be! For awhile at least, you know that!

Nash's face darkened at the exchange between the Two — they were both right, as usual, but which was the proper kind of correct for the girl at the moment? She needed allies, but they'd be after her eventually. They had to be. There was no getting around that. All the same, she needed to trust someone at some point. There was safety in numbers, in the beginning. And how would she sleep if she refused to shut her eyes? The Two had made it apparent that she couldn't even trust herself — thanks to them, she didn't know what she wanted. Couldn't rely on herself to make the right decision, when it came time for it.

But luckily, it seemed as though the decision would be made easier for her by the sudden arrival and blunt proposal of the tribute she'd been scoping out earlier — none other than Anani Petros. He'd done what Nash couldn't: he'd come right out and asked for an alliance. It was a stroke of brilliant luck for Nash, who was more reserved than not, who didn't really like to ask for things, even if she thought she was deserving of them. Now she didn't need to set herself up for that rejection.

Nash's head buzzed with relief as the District One girl put the offer on the table officially. "What would you all think of an alliance?" The girl from Two couldn't help but admire the ease and grace with which Topaz had taken charge of the group — the alliance, as it was to be officially if and when the others gave their assent. She didn't even feel threatened by the girl's leadership. It was comforting to know that she could just resign herself to Topaz's judgement, which was unusual — Nash had only just met the girl, after all.

"Yeah," agreed Nash, unable to keep the twinge of enthusiasm from her voice. This was the Hunger Games — there was nothing to be enthusiastic about. "I'm all for an alliance."

What? What!? What are you doing!? You know that Careers are the most unsavory of people! You'll be killed in your sleep. It's not going to work out well for you, you know that. Everyone has to die at some point in the Games, and these three — and you — are no exceptions. When you're bleeding on the ground, remember this moment when you signed your own death sentence.

She grinned, feeling good about having stood up to the Two — somehow they lost their persuasive power when they were both on the same side, even if Nash was against. Would it last? Probably not. But may as well enjoy the feeling of triumph while she still had it. "And I'm Nash, by the way."

[/color]

Last Edit: Sept 11, 2010 16:33:01 GMT -5 by aya

{characters}

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{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 11, 2010 20:14:21 GMT -5

Post by Prince Inigo on Sept 11, 2010 20:14:21 GMT -5

District 4's female Tribute did a slight, awkward, curtsy - as show of thanks - before taking a seat across from the two Careers. She was quite humble to start picking succulent dishes, unable to decide between which foods to begin with first. They all called for her; and, though she did have a love for fish back at home, the scents here could even bring her to take items she disliked, such as the salads more olive than lettuce. She had watched other Tributes and people digging in and ripping large pieces of pig's flesh in barbaric fashion, so the girl hesitantly scooped some vegetables and a small spoonful of rice and beans. While sorting through the rice, Takeba eventually took some stew.

Taking little samplings of the provisions, Takeba tingled with pleasure at the richness, nowhere near bland taste. The corners of her lips were pulled to a tiny, reserved smile that actually felt genuine. Nowhere in District 4 were dishes this well-prepared, exquisite, and full of powerful herbs and spices. Compared to past foods, they were mellow and quiet. These packed quite the punch yet subtlety that worked hand-in-hand to create edibles that roared whispers. Accompanying with the refined atmosphere, the dinner place of the Capitol was superbly wonderful and held up to preconceived expectations.

Purple eyes blinked, Takeba's head redirected to the District 1 female when the question of 'smarts' came around. Swallowing down a carrot and setting the fork on the plate - not out of her hand - the girl had to think about the proper answer. She had only taken a second's silence before replying: "Intelligence is dependent on one's opinions... but... ah... I would like to say I am above average in overall knowledge." Little smile. "I have my own sharps of intellect, as do yours, I am quite certain. Ah... to directly answer the question, however..." There was difficulty to fully come out with the right words, a bout of modesty and embarrassment showing in pressed lips. "I suppose I must say that I am... intelligent. Hopefully knowledgeable such to the point that it could be implemented in most dire situations and real-life applications, when the time calls for... 'smarts'."

Suddenly, a boy had boldly came up to them. Before he could say a word out of his mouth, Takeba recognized him as the brother of the District 12 victor, Anani Petros. She was given quite the startle when the same bluntness suggested to make an alliance with these four standing - and sitting - right here. Districts 1, 2, 4, and 12, all in one four-man group; to die, to kill, to be possible victors. Takeba batted her eyes, in slight confusion, only to regain some conscious gleam and smile in assurance. With her established mindset, dying would not matter so much; it was the emotional, physical, and mental pain which would be unbearable in the Arena. Either way, she was going to not exist anymore, figuratively-speaking.

"I hold no objections or inquires of establishing an alliance. I am, in fact, quite honored to be a part of a group." She did a little bow at the table, an expression of happy calmness present. "I deeply apologize for not introducing myself; my name is Takeba Suzumi, the female Tribute for District 4. I wish the best gifts from Lady Fortune are bestowed to us, and I sincerely hope that the best choices are picked during our lives." Takeba sipped quietly stew before masticating on a chunk of meat in small bites. Wonders to us, Topaz Ross of District 1, Nash of District 2, and Anani Petros of District 12. I will contribute as much as I can until Death has come to end the paths of my life." The statements were said with the most placid manner, even a grin to go with them.

She had almost taken up another chunk of meat before a little frown came on. "Ah..." she began, Excuse me if these questions brings discomfort; but, does the way I say words... loquacious? Am I creating some uncomfortable feeling that I should cut down on my speech?" Takeba was more anxious about being a hindrance or giving some odd air rather than to be told she should speak less or was strange. Being called 'weird' was normal practice, for her.

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Alice, I hate you, but this quote is so... so... *dies*

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{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 12, 2010 17:38:16 GMT -5

Post by Kevin on Sept 12, 2010 17:38:16 GMT -5

Anani Petros

As Anani watched the reactions of the three girls at the table, he realized that he had mistaken them to be an alliance. And as he caught the sly glance from the District 1 girl, his attempt to keep up a confident smile wavered. She had asked him the question he had dreaded the most, and surprised him by asking that they be in an alliance.

What do I think will make me a good addition to a career alliance?... I'm a nobody-- well, I'm the brother of "Aranica" Petros to them, but besides that, I'm a nobody. An unlucky misfit drafted from District 12. The ones that usually die quickly. Of course, for the last two years, Arbor and Nisa had managed to get out... but now that they've won, I probably have very little chance. Well... I'm sorta fit, aren't I? I can adapt... to new environments... Ah what am I saying? I'd be useless to a career alliance... I might be good as a one time shield or something... Damn it, but I can't let them know that can I? I need to be useful. I have to be useful... so that I can preserve my life that I owe to Nisa.

As Anani stumbled around in his mind to find the right words or rather yet, any words, a jumbled mush of his thoughts came out in a form of a bluff.

"No, I don't mess around with lives at stake. I can definitely defend myself well, and a sane conscience is non-existent in my head. If I have to kill, I'll kill. Also, I can live off nothing. I've lived my entire life on the streets of District 12, unlike you and your pampered life in District 1."

And as he finished that statement, Anani tormented himself in his mind for insulting a career tribute so early on. Of course, mostly everything he said was a lie, but he had to bring something to the table... Besides, who would want a weak and timid boy from District 12 in their alliance? No... in order for him to live, he had to do everything in his power to find the right allies, to gain any kind of small benefit in the arena. But even as he justified his bluff to himself in his mind, he had realized that the insult to Topaz might not help him later on.

"N-not that I don't think you can fend for yourself in the arena, I was just saying that I won't hinder you girls in any way. And... and... even though I've lived a fucked up life... I won't betray you guys... Even if I wanted to... I physically can't. So basically... I'm the most trustworthy person you've got." He furrowed his eyebrows as the thought of his sister came up again. Yes, he would never be able to betray someone like that, even if it was for his better good... It would just be too painful, and if he was to die in the arena, he didn't want to die, thinking that he was the selfish bastard he had been in the past.

He turned his head to the girl with the dark, foreboding eyes as she agreed to the overall alliance. She had introduced herself as "Nash," and Anani quickly turned away before he could meet eye-contact with her. And before he could accept the alliance proposal himself, the girl that introduced herself as "Takeba" started to speak.

As she spoke more and more, Anani's one of eyebrows shot up in confusion towards the formality of the girl's speech. And what was even stranger was that the girl asked whether she was being too "loquacious." And as a way to show his confusion or just to agree on whatever she said, Anani curtly nodded his head a few times and smiled to give an affirmative. And as silence seeped in after Takeba's speech, Anani realized that it was time for him to speak up.

"So yeah, the name's Anani Petros... brother of last year's victor, Aranica Petros or as you guys so call her... Like I said, I'm not the one to backstab, and I can handle myself. I've lived without parents my entire life, so getting food should be second nature to me... And like how Takeba said, I'm sure we'll make it far. And hopefully... the odds will be in our favor."

With another smile and a nod, the thought passed through his mind that even if he somehow made it to the end with this alliance, at least three of them would be dead by the end of it. A shudder passed through him as he imagined any of the three girls dead as he reached out for some food.

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{Because} -we're- [here] <Team Strikeoutthrough> Sept 13, 2010 16:19:12 GMT -5

Post by Lulu on Sept 13, 2010 16:19:12 GMT -5

The seventeen-year-old Career made a point to remember the names of those in her alliance. Nash, Takeba, Anani. While they didn't exactly have to become friends, per se, they did have to become a team, and a pretty kickass one at that. They needed to be able to judge each others' next moves, work together, move as one. Most importantly was their appearance; they had to look tight-knit and dangerous, at the very least, to intimidate their inferiors. They were, after all, the Careers; well, the Careers and a kid from District Twelve who'd drag in the sponsors.

Nash, at least, seemed enthusiastic about forming an alliance. She looked relieved, in a way. Had she thought she wouldn't be able to get in with Careers? Why wouldn't she be? She was one, wasn't she? Again, Topaz had the feeling fleeting that there was more to Nash than meets the eye. Takeba might have been enthusiastic, too, but it was so hard to tell the emotion behind her words when she continued to babble on and on, not even pausing for a moment. She did, however, bow to them; Tope couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. Already the District Four girl was coming off as a bit quirky; hopefully, though, her inevitable smarts would make up for that.

It was Anani's words, though that caught her attention; no surprises there, for they had been directed at her anyway. While she had all but disregarded her former statement, about the Petros girl's brother's ability to aid a Career alliance, Anani seemed to be stung by it, and desperate to prove himself. Eyes slowly narrowing as he spoke, she listened to him say "Also, I can live off nothing. I've lived my entire life on the streets of District Twelve, unlike you and your pampered life in District One." Her lips tightened and she glared, though there seemed to be no need to; Anani had apparently already realized his mistake.

"N--not that I don't think you can fend for yourself in the Arena." Oh, you better not think that, boy. It was amusing, watching him defend himself. As if he were truly frightened of her. It was a different sort of feeling, making people apprehensive; while she had not always been the kindest soul in the world she always made sure she was easily approachable. That had changed, though, as soon as she'd stepped up to take Sapphire's place at that Reaping. It was like the niceness had been filtered out of her, making her far more intimidating than was natural, and she hadn't even noticed until now. She wasn't about to bring it back, though. The red-haired girl had a feeling that it would be more prudent to remain frightening; being loved by anybody who was not a potential sponsor never benefited anyone in the Arena.

"Watch your tongue, kid," she spat. "Or you may just find you won't have it for very much longer."

[/color] She nodded her head towards the large double doors that separated the Dining Hall from the main training area, as if to put emphasis on the number of slicing weapons that lay inside. He continued speaking, though, and eventually Topaz decided she didn't need to follow through with the threat; he was simply another tongue-tied lower district tribute...though a worthy one. "Alright, relax. We already said you're on the team, didn't we?"[/color]

She thought about what he had said a bit more. Of course, he was right; she'd already acknowledged the fact that going hungry would be a problem for her earlier. She had lived a pampered life; there was no use trying to deny it. This Anani Petros was undoubtedly far more equipped to face that hardship in the arena than she was, which didn't make her happy. However, though, was starving herself out to get used to the feeling really going to help? Would eating as much as she can while she still could be more productive to her cause? It was impossible to know.

Torn, and with a growling stomach, Topaz decided she'd give in to at least a bit of the temptation; the District One tribute reached out and snatched a couple of bite-sized bits of bread from a basket nearby. They were from District Three, she realized as she pinched off small bites of the rolls, for they were tiny and square like the various types of microchips the third district specialized in manufacturing. And although they weren't very much, to someone who hadn't eaten since dinner the previous night they tasted fantastic.

Takeba began to ramble again, and Topaz was able to catch some spiel about whether or not she should stop talking the way she did. She jumped on that immediately. "Yeah, could you maybe dumb it down a bit? Not all of us sleep with thesauruses beside our pillows."[/color] She hadn't meant for them to, but her words came off as a little rude. Ah, well. Takeba didn't seem to be offended easily, and even if she was, she had to get over it soon. The Arena was no place to be touchy.

"Yes. May the odds be ever in our favor."[/color] Tope looked around at her newly formed alliance. Once more, she committed the names to memory. Nash, Takeba, Anani. They would have to be closer than close over the next few days or weeks. They'd have to be a team in the truest sense. She hoped the grouping was a decent one; if it wasn't, then they're really need those odds on their side.[/color][/blockquote][/size][/justify]

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