Merrick vs. Perch [D4]

She is in a less than ideal mood the day of the debate. The stress of the election was stealing her sleep and leaving her prone to negative emotions. Still she smiled as she greeted everyone and took her place on stage. Althea made sure to completely pin her hair back so as not to have fly aways like during her speech. Her blue shawl wrapped around her shoulders was pinned in front of her with a broach from her mother. A piece of twin melted and twisted to resembled a seashell.

The first question hit the air and the debate fell into Cove's hands. She listened carefully, taking in every word he said. The focus shifted to her and she leaned into the microphone her reply readily supplying itself on her lips.

"I have to say I disagree with Candidate Cove. Our hardships are not all the same. There are many in this district who face difficulties I never had to. Difficulties such as hunger, thirst. Worrying if your children will be safe while you're at sea fishing to support them, or eating half rotten fish because it's all you have left to eat. There are difficulties in this district, and I want to find a solution to all of them including the most basic of human rights.

She paused. She had an entire note card written up with descriptions of the tsunami, and yet her heart felt pulled into a different direction. A more personal one.

"If I'm being truthful," she began, her voice losing some of the clean professionalism it had gained over the years, lapsing into a casual tone. A tone for a confession. "The most difficult time in my life was the months that stretched after my last eligible reaping. I trained to be a tribute, to be a victor and bring glory to my district. I never got the chance. I spent the first eighteen years of my life with a trident in hand, working everyday for a prize I never even got an opportunity at. My name was never called, and despite all my attempts, there was always someone quicker someone louder to volunteer first. I was miserable. I felt I had lost who I was meant to be. What is a tribute without a games?

This is a reality for many of our citizens. So many enter the training gyms every year and yet only two go to the Capitol. I know the pain and loneliness they feel, I know the failure that seems to cave their lungs in. I want them to know there is so much to the world beyond the Games. There is so much to learn and involve yourself in. I was never reaped, but I devoted my life to District Four and cultivating its future which is the best victor's crown I could ever receive."

Althea returned the insincere smile, letting her emotions get the best of her. When she spoke her voice was sweet, almost too sweet.

"I agree with Candidate Cove, an opportunity for our adult fighters would be unprecedented and memorable Games. However, I could never volunteer myself. I have dedicated my life to this district and my children and have found the glory in stabilizing our home outside of the arena."

"I do have another another thing to add. I have spent many years beside former mayor Fabian Perch, sharing in his work and seeing exactly what it takes to be a mayor. I have volunteered my time to the people of my home and have offered my help and friendship to every citizen. I have experience in diplomacy, community outreach, city planning, and in running this district. Pray tell me, Candidate Cove, what experience do you have besides surfing?"