silverostro

[silverostro]

othcrhalf​:

AS EXPECTED, SILVER understands what it is Robyn’s trying to do, sees through their attempts at steeling themself as they give out pleas like commands, and then proceeds to respond in a way that’s so exactly like Silver, Robyn can hardly stand how perfect it is. They answer positively, promising to find him later on, safe and sound in the safe place, before teasing back so smoothly, so easily, and Robyn is hit once again by infinite, irrevocable, and overwhelming affection for this person. It’s just like Silver to respond that way, and it’s just like the two of them to talk like this even with ( or perhaps because of ) the dire circumstances that surround them. There’s something so reassuring and warm about knowing Silver will always know where his heart is, where his mind is, without him having to fully tell them, just as there is warmth and reassurance in knowing they’ll always rise to the occasion and respond in a way that’s just right; because of course they will. Robyn thinks they know him better than anyone, and this proves precisely that.

After the second kiss, Robyn pulls them back into business, and Silver immediately follows suit. The two of them remain close, however, their murmuring voices soft. Silver gives Robyn more exact instructions, and they do their best to commit everything to memory. Part of them is nervous, scared that their fear and worry will betray them and push them into making all sorts of mistakes, but they know they can’t afford to think like that — especially not now, and especially not when they’ve been doing their own stressful job as Escort perfectly all these years. It’s just as they’d told Silver; failure is not an option. They know what they are at their most efficient, and even though they haven’t exactly been at their hundred percent for a quite some time now, they’re well aware that they can tap into that energy and that drive, knowing Silver will be out there doing the same thing.

It’s good to hear, though, that there are others beside themself who are wanting to ensure Silver’s safety too. That lightens the load a little, and gives Robyn the extra assurance that Silver will do as they had promised and make it to safety before time is up. He just hopes they don’t stay out too long. “All right. I’ve noted everything,” Robyn whispers with a slight nod, hands still behind Silver’s neck, thumbs still tracing their nape. “Whoever these other people are, they’re right. You’re not allowed to not make it.” They lean forward, bump their nose against Silver’s. “You promised me we’d make a home wherever it is we end up. If you break that promise, I swear I’ll find you and break you myself,” they joke one more time, although the sniffle that follows definitely lessens the threatening aura they’d meant to put up. With a shaky sigh, they pull back and loosen their hold, lowering but not entirely letting go.

“Now go. The sooner we get our tasks done, the sooner we’ll get to being in that room together.”

...

Time ticks on, but luckily with Robyn they know that he understands better than anyone could when there’s no time to linger. They’ve always been skilled at this sort of thing, after all, have always been considered the best of the best when it comes to their job, and so Silver knows that they’ll manage this all just as well, because they have to. That’s something that they share, their ability to set everything else aside in favor of laser focus on the task at hand, especially when there’s something waiting at the end. And this feels like the moment of truth in that regard, an enormous chance for both of them individually, and one that will lead to everything they’ve been promising each other since things had changed between them, and they had realized what’s been there for much longer than either of them had admitted. There’s plenty of motivation, but it doesn’t hurt to have more of it in the form of knowing finishing their job well, and quickly will lead to see Robyn again, knowing he’s safe, being safe with him. 

Silver nods, confident in Robyn’s ability to do all they need to before leaving, too, and they hold onto this feeling for a moment longer to give them the strength to push through the panic and worry of the unknown, the fear of being apart during such important moments. Robyn’s hand on their neck grounds them, the little chill the feeling of their thumb tracing the skin there gives something they memorize as best they can, despite their mind’s work against them. They can’t help but smile a little at the nose bump, at the way Robyn tells them they can’t not make it. But the thing that makes their chest swell with warmth is the reminder of the promise of home, of making a home together wherever they end up. And the thought of having the chance at that somewhere safe, at least relatively so comparatively, isn’t one they had fully realized until this moment. It makes them all the more determined to finish this, and do it well, so that they can have just that with those they care for around them safe and sound, too. “I could never break a promise to you, Robyn, no need for threats,” they mutter fondly.

It feels nearly impossible to let go, even as Robyn loosens their own hold, preparing for that moment, but Robyn is right, the sooner they finish, the sooner they can be in that room together, and they can have that I love you in something like safety for the first time ever. They lean in and steal one more kiss, this one soft, lingering, full of the unspoken tenderness they can’t spend time sharing just now. They want to remember every second of it, the way their lips feel against theirs, how it feels to hold onto him, his scent, his beauty. It takes a great deal of strength to pull back at last, to let their hand move to his briefly, and give a gentle squeeze, before finally letting go, and taking a step back to finally split up to get everything they need done. “I’ll see you soon, Robyn. Take care until then.”

#( robyn. ) #( robyn 014. ) #( chapter 7. ) #THE END?? #🥺🥺🥺

[silverostro]

othcrhalf​:

THE KISS IS exhilarating, and it takes Robyn’s breath away for how intensely Silver responds and gives that same passion he’d given to them back to him. For a moment, it deepens, and Robyn holds on tight, not wanting to let go, fingers clawing into the cloth of their jacket, their shirt, their back, and then he ends it himself. Silver wavers, as if wanting to continue, to push forward and keep going, and god does Robyn want it too, their lips and their body still hungry for more of that warmth, that touch, but they hold back. Silver’s response makes it worth it, though, yet another promise made to further seal their future together, a pact of sorts to always find one another, now and after. Robyn feels their chest tighten at this; they need that to be true, they need it desperately. “I…” they begin, but Silver continues, gives them further instruction, further reassurance that they’ll be there. They won’t let go of him, they say, once the two of them are together again, and Robyn wishes time would wind forward and bring them both there now, in the safety of the after, nestled in each other’s arms as they await what comes next.

Once more, Silver professes their love, vows that nothing would keep them from being by Robyn’s side, and so help them, Robyn can no longer stop the way a single tear falls from the corner of their eye and down their cheek. Followed by another, and another. They close their eyes, squeezing a few more out in turn, and press their forehead against Silver’s, savoring this, wanting so much to live in this warmth for as long as they can, both hands now on the back of Silver’s neck, thumb tracing the skin there. They sniff, try to calm themself as they attempt to put into words exactly what it is they feel. And they know that what they feel is overwhelming love, overwhelming desire for this person and for their safety, so they can be with him when it’s time to go. He loves them. So, so much. But they won’t say it yet, not now. It’s the first half of yet another promise, one to be fulfilled later along with the rest.

“I’ll… hold off on my reply for now,” they murmur, before taking their hand away and swiping quickly at a few fresh tears beneath their eyes. Looking up at Silver again, they try to put on a look of determination, of readiness, tempered just a little bit by the love that fills their dark brown eyes as they look deep into Silver’s. He caresses their cheek. “You’ll just have wait until we see each other again later. And then I’ll tell you,” Robyn says, before trying for a smile. It’s far too sad, far too watery and emotional, and not at all like the vague smirk they’d meant for them to see. “That’s clear, isn’t it, Ostro?” they try to tease, though a slight edge to their tone makes them sound almost like they’re begging Silver to make sure they’re able to meet them later. “You don’t have a choice in the matter. You have to find me; there’s no other option.” 

And for the second time, because they can’t help it, because they know they’re about to separate very soon, Robyn pulls them in for another kiss, only slightly softer, and still full of meaning. When they let go, they whisper, “Now I need you to tell me again about those passageways.” Hands returning to Silver’s neck, they press close, lowering their voice even more, hoping it’s still clear despite the slight tremors that riddle it. “Aside from Four and Seven, is there anywhere else I need to go? Anyone else I have to find?”

...

They hate the thought of having to leave one another, of doing their best to finish all they need before time runs out, and all the while not knowing if Robyn is safe or not, but they’re well aware that there’s no other option. This is the moment for both of them to finally concretely find a way to undo some of the harm they’ve done in their own ways by being apart of this system for years, to make certain other people are given the chance at a better future, too. To let go of selfishness. They’re finding it terribly difficult to let go of the old habit entirely, though, when it comes to Robyn, but they’ll do their best. The promises are going to have to tide them both over until they make it there to the meeting point, because they will, they have to have faith that they’ll both manage, or they’re unsure how they could get any of it done. Robyn’s tears suddenly falling at last, though, make some of the resolve waver, make it tempting to fall back into that habit, but they know that one of the many things that holds them together is knowing how important it is they do this together, even if they can’t do so hand in hand. 

Robyn presses their forehead against Silvers, and they lean forward, too, closing their eyes, letting a little sigh fall from their lips as they hold onto this feeling, this overwhelming feeling of warmth, of love, coupled with understanding beyond anything they’ve found elsewhere. And it’s just like Robyn to make it into a demand, to try to steel themself, to find a sense of teasing amongst all the pain and uncertainty. They look back at him, deep into his beautiful eyes, eyes that say the words he refuses to just yet, in favor of making them wait for the after. A sad, soft smile crosses their lips, even as they try for something closer to a smirk, unable to push that far considering how heavy the air feels, the sense of unknown closing in around them, the distortion growing louder by the minute in their mind. 

“Clear as day. I’ll find you, safe and sound. And I’m expecting the words to move my cold, mechanical soul with all the emotion that’s going to be behind them, Robyn, so you best be prepared not to disappoint,” they mutter, trying for teasing themself, instead landing on something infinitely fond as they smile at them. And then he’s kissing them again, still deep and full of meaning, but a little softer. There’s a deep sense of love from the gesture alone, something they plan to hold onto tightly in their time apart. 

They let out a shaky breath when they break apart, and try to refocus on the task, on all the information they need to give Robyn to make certain they can keep their promises. Quietly, they explain the two different routes to the meeting point once again, focusing on detail, trying to offer as much instruction as possible in the absence of any way to draw them a map of the places. “Just to the meeting point. Take care of Four and Seven, try for any last minute sponsorships for Harbor, and then head there. I could never forgive myself if you didn’t make it in time because you were waiting too long for me outside. I’ll be there before time is up; you’re not the only one who’s told me I’m not allowed to not make it.”

#( robyn. ) #( robyn 014. ) #( chapter 7. )

[silverostro]

silverostro​:

HEADCANON: Slate & Silver, before talking to Auburn ( @hcrdcreeks. )

Despite knowing that Aven has likely already talked to Slate by the time they make it down to Two, Silver finds it impossible not to seek out their old friend themself, too, before they continue on their work. It’s an indulgence, but a necessary one. They want to make sure that he knows that he has people who are still looking out for him, trying to make it clear that they want to make sure he makes it, too. It’s a relatively simple conversation between two old friends, but it’s chalk full of meaning and understanding. Silver understands that there’s still work Slate needs to do, just as they have as well, to find even an ounce of penance for all they’ve been apart of since their own respective victories. As Griffin requested, they make mention of now being the time to do that and get to work for those in the Arena, despite knowing that Slate has no one of his own left to aid. They trust him, though, and they know that he’s intelligent and strategic enough to have a plan to find a way to help without arousing suspicion. They attempt to find some optimism as they leave, despite how worried they are that Slate will actually make it to the escape himself, telling him to send someone to find them again if he needs anything before they see each other next.

–

Since Aven has informed Slate of the rapidly approaching departure, Slate has had his mind spinning with everything he has left to do. Even when Silver comes to check on him, to express their understanding and their wishes to see Slate on that aircraft, he still feels that there’s so much he could have done. What was the point of all of this? It’s good, hearing from someone that he’s actually wanted on that aircraft. That he’s been able to make some positive mark and that he’s not a complete and total waste. He’s sure to give Silver a genuine thanks, even if it might go against whatever image he’s put up. In that moment, he’s forgotten who he was trying to be. There’s too much to think about. He’s sure to let them know that he wont let them down, and that he’ll be sure to be there. It’s a quick interaction, but it’s not one he takes lightly as he leaves.

#( slate. ) #( slate 007. ) #( chapter 7. ) #( headcanon. ) #🥺🥺🥺

[silverostro]

givcnup​:

IT’S HARD TO shake the feeling that they’re missing something, even as if they’ve planned meticulously, even as they’ve tried to cover bases with who to tell, then who those people are meant to tell. Difficult not to feel like maybe there’s still something they can get from this, something more they can push for, but Griffin and Silver both know quite well that there simply isn’t time to linger. He’s appreciative, at least, of the option for sending a message later on, in case they think of something in the heat of the moment, and takes note of the Avoxes Silver mentions. Griffin nods, “All right. Okay. Good to know.” In this moment, Silver is looking fully at him now too, and Griffin can practically see the panic seeping out of them in waves and static. They’re thinking the same thing. At this moment, most if not all bases have been covered, but maybe there’s something more, something they’re not seeing…

Griffin shakes his head rather suddenly, a quick flick of the head, trying to get himself out of that unhealthy spiral of paranoia. Silver seems ready to go, albeit with some level of hesitance too, just like him, but they can’t afford to spend more time here, can’t afford to sit still for longer when there’s so much more to do. Silver ends it for them with something that’s more or less a ‘see you later’, coupled with an offer for a handshake. Griffin takes it but, suddenly hyper aware of what’s been done to Silver’s hands, hidden as they are behind those gloves of theirs, he keeps his touch light and brief. He won’t lie and say he doesn’t feel awkward about any of this at all; he’s feeling plenty awkward, in the midst of that franticness and panic. “Less than six hours,” he says anyway, before deciding to head toward the direction with the exit opposite where he thinks Silver will go. He gives them a nod, curt but determined.

“Good luck, Silver.”

THE END

#( griffin. ) #( griffin 006. ) #( chapter 7. ) #THE END!!!

[silverostro]

othcrhalf​:

SILVER SAYS THEY trust him with their heart, and Robyn feels that simple statement burrow into their chest, making a home there, taking root as one truth they know they’ll forever hold on to. There’s a thickness in the back of their throat now, a bit of emotion to dull the panic and frantic energy, and they feel a heat building beneath their eyes. Robyn trusts Silver with their heart too, irrevocably and infinitely, and they wish, they truly wish they could do their work together — that they didn’t at all have to be apart in the next hours. Robyn does his best to take it all in, trying to remember every single piece of instruction Silver is giving them. They’ve never had a problem with working under stress before and would have even said, years ago, that they thrived in that sort of environment, but while it’s obviously not the same at all, Robyn tries to tell themself that this isn’t any different. It’ll be like working under a tight deadline. Like accomplishing a particularly detail-intensive task under strict instructions. If they think of it that way, they won’t freeze up in terror over the stakes.

He’s relieved to know that most Districts are accounted for, relieved to hear DeeZee’s name there as well, and Cripes, of course, is an extension to Fava and the others. It feels so heavy, being given all this responsibility, knowing the price of failure is loss of time and perhaps loss of life. They’ll have to ask for clearer directions one more time later on to make it crystal clear to them, but they understand what it is they have to do. The question about the Tributes is answered somewhere along the way as well, and while the thought frightens Robyn and makes them want to find some other way to compromise ( recognizing they’ll be in a silent panic the entire time, not knowing what’s happening to Harbor, not knowing if he and Abe have already made it to the bigger group ), understanding that they’re meant to be picking the Tributes up calms them somewhat. They know Twig will want to double the efforts for sponsorships at that, get Harbor and Abe to the right directions before they leave.

Their mind is working a mile a minute, even in the embrace, even with the warmth of Silver’s arms around them. A shiver runs through their body again, part of them wanting to get to work right away, fearful of things being too late for their friends, for their brother, but Silver pulls back and watches them. They press a kiss to their temple, gentle, soft, and lingering, and it dulls the panic one more time, both the gesture and the words that follow. The tears that had been building fill their eyes to the brim, and Robyn lets out a breath. “I wish we could too,” they practically gasp out, barely able to breathe in the face of so much fear and panic, so much emotion. Silver had been thinking the same thing. If only they could do this work together, side by side; Robyn knows they wouldn’t be so scared.

Another shaky breath escapes him as he brings his hands back up to touch their face. “I’ll… I’ll come find you once I’ve finished, but if I don’t see you out here…” It’s becoming harder and harder to talk, their breathing unstable, more sobs threatening to wrack their body, but they push forward, swallow, put on a stiff upper lip. “Then you better be in that room already. Alright? You — don’t stay out longer than you have to. I need you there with me,” Robyn says, emphasizing what needs to be emphasized, remembering their talk in the hallway, on what promises had been made. This is not and must not be the last time; they absolutely have to make it to safety together. Robyn knows that, believes that, and yet, their voice continues to tremble as they go on. “I need you beside me once it starts, and I need you to not let go of me until we’re both sure it’s safe.” With no regard for anything else, emotions too high not to do it, they pull Silver to them for a kiss, one that isn’t soft but instead passionate, hard, full of so much meaning, all their fear, uncertainty and worry mixed in with their hope, their determination, their love — everything in a single gesture.

When they pull back, they’re breathing heavily, lips still lingering against Silver’s, eyes on their pale blues. They don’t know if that’s Silver’s heart or his or both of theirs beating rapidly against his chest. “Promise me we’ll find each other at the end of all this. Promise me.”

...

They wish desperately that they could speak more outright, and that there was more time to plan together, more time to be together before they need to both get to work, but it feels as if the familiar static has become something of a ticking clock, a constant reminder that time is running out with each passing second, that the longer they linger in one place, the less time there is to make certain everything is in order before they need to make it there themself. But this is Robyn, they would give him every last moment they had if they could, except their promises made to each other keep them from that sort of selfishness, from the same sort of selfishness that would tell them to send him straight to the meeting spot, instead of counting on him to inform Four and Seven, and giving him time to help set his brother up to make it, to be there waiting when the time comes. Still, pushing past the selfishness doesn’t mean they don’t wish it could be different, and even before Robyn agrees they know that he feels the same. 

There are tears welling up in their eyes, and Silver wishes that they had the right words to quell them, to take care of any worry or fear, but they know that there’s nothing they can do but promise that they’ll make it together in the end when the time comes to go. Their hand moves to Robyn’s neck, holding on, trying to offer some sense of grounding, and strength in the face of so much uncertainty themself, as well. And it nearly breaks their heart, the way Robyn’s voice shakes, the way their body shudders with each breath, as they try to go on, as they accept what they both have to do, but consider the risks of it all. The risks are enormous. Trying to move so many people without concrete plans for timing and order is dangerous, would be dangerous already even without so many of them being closely watched by the Capitol, and that’s without considering the danger of even spreading the information around when there are eyes and ears everywhere, when some people are loud by nature, through no fault of their own. 

But they have faith in Robyn, and they have faith in themself, and they have no intention of going back on any of the promises they’ve made to them, no intention of doing anything but exactly as they ask, being there in that room on time, no risk of being too late, being there together when the time comes. They nod along with his words, let out a little hum of agreement, as their fingers move perhaps a little frantically over his jaw, in part to memorize the feeling, in part to try to give comfort to them both. They only wish they could go without the gloves, without the pain, and touch him fully. It seems that Robyn is thinking the same, though, because as soon as they finish speaking, they pull them into a kiss, hard and passionate, all of the unspoken feelings behind it all, so much that it’s nearly overwhelming. Impossible not to press into it, to deepen the kiss just for a second, indulge and savor, and say as much back to them without a single word, through lips alone. 

Robyn pulls back, and they feel a little unsteady for a second, wishing they could keep going, could stay in something so perfect and full of meaning for much longer, but this is just as meaningful. “I promise. We’ll always find each other, Robyn, now, and after,” they breathe, eyes searching Robyn’s, knowing that he’ll understand what they mean, that the words are no exaggeration. They’ll always find him, and they know that he would do the same, through this, and any other hardship or danger they might face. The promises made in that hallway what feels like a lifetime ago, but was only days, were sincere, utterly truthful. They both promised to see this through together, and that’s what they’re going to do, now, and beyond, once they’re far away from here in an entirely new unknown. “If you can’t find me once you’re finished, go and I’ll meet you there. And then I won’t let go of you once we’re together again. I love you, Robyn, nothing could possibly keep me from being by your side.”

#( robyn. ) #( robyn 014. ) #( chapter 7. ) #don't mind if i do take every chance i get to use my kissy gifs

[silverostro]

givcnup​:

SLATE’S SPOKEN WITH Silver then too. At this point, with several people checking in on him ( Griffin doesn’t doubt Dawn will want to, even with that sudden distance between them ), it’s got to be impossible that he’d remain seated for the rest of this, just twiddling his thumbs and waiting. He hasn’t got a Tribute to support anymore, and trying for others when he’s from District 2 might rouse suspicion, but Slate had said to trust him, and Griffin’s out of other options with him. If the man wants to try something, then the time to do so is now. He says nothing, though, and merely nods once Silver promises to commit it to memory. But they continue talking and remind Griffin of Plutarch’s words: It’s no time to play martyrs, and staying out too long and getting themselves captured too would be detrimental to the plan — it’s clear to him, of course, that Silver understands the nuances behind it. “I know. By the end of our tasks, we can do one quick sweep in our respective areas, and then…” He does a cross between a shrug and a shake of the head. “Then we go.”

He turns to face Silver in full now, having just heard their plans for Zero. Griffin’s not so sure he can figure out exactly what tools the group will be needing at the moment, but he does think about the others who haven’t made it yet. Even if not all can be in the main group, he has to try to get as many people there as possible, for all the people they’d promised in this tower to help. “That sounds good. I’ll see if I can get Birch into the larger team too, I’m certain your connections will be taking care of Harbor and Abe,” he says. “If there are others I can convince to help keep the Tributes who are already grouped together safe, I’ll make sure to do that.” His brows furrow. “Have we covered everything?”

...

There’s a small comfort in the mutual understanding, and they’re glad that Griffin seems ready to accept their inability to stay behind for too long. Knowing how Griffin can be, there is a hint of worry that if something went wrong with someone else, and he had the ability to stop it in favor of taking the damage himself and risking not making it, he might do it in the heat of the moment, but they have to trust that even then he’ll remember the importance Plutarch placed on both of them managing to make it back here. They can’t think like that now, though, so they nod curtly. “Then we go,” they repeat. “Yes, I know Robyn and Twig will do everything to get them into the group. It’s all settled then.” There are a hundred other things they could speak about, more detailed plans, coming up with just how each individual District should be getting to this meeting point and when, and so on and so forth, but they don’t have time to linger on the details unfortunately, as much as Silver prefers specificity in everything they do. With six hours already ticking away, they’ll just both have to trust each other, and the people they delegate other tasks to, to see past the panic and terror well enough to make the intelligent and safe choices. Trust when failure could mean death isn’t so simple, but it’s all they have. 

“All of the important bits, all that we can afford to take the time for at the moment. It’s time to get to it, I believe. If anything goes wrong, and there’s time, send a message through an Avox; Three’s is trustworthy, and so is Ten’s. I’ll do the same, if no one else is around to manage it, but hopefully it won’t come to that...” Silver nods, looking at Griffin fully, perhaps for the first time in the rush of conversation, static so loud in their ears. They pause, perhaps a little awkwardness suddenly seeping in through the frantic energy, realizing now that it’s time to part ways, and if something does go wrong for either of them, this could be the last moment they speak to each other. It’s not productive to think that way, though, when there’s so much work to be done. So instead, Silver holds out their less injured hand, still clad in the gloves Dawn made them, and gives him a nod. “I suppose I’ll see you in a little less than six hours, then, Griffin.”

#( griffin. ) #( griffin 006. ) #( chapter 7. )

[silverostro]

givcnup​:

DESPITE ALL THOSE years of spite and stubbornness, of feeling betrayed and not wanting to be mature enough to let time dull the animosity into something that could finally lead him to forgiveness, Griffin can say for a fact that he’s glad it’s Silver here with them now. They’ve always been quick on their feet, always been intelligent and calm, sometimes to the point of being annoying about it, but it’s working to their advantage now, with logic dictating their every next move, and he’s pleased for how little beating around the bush there is. “All right. Good. Thank you,” he says quickly, not wanting to focus on his gratitude, and right afterward, he adds, “I’m counting on your connections too.” For how readily Silver accepts his offer to give DeeZee a larger role, Griffin, too, respects their decision to assign certain important tasks to Gazel. If there’s anyone who can get through to Swann the best, it’ll be them, and Griffin knows it’s going to be a good role for her, to keep things in order here, once people have arrived. He thinks it would be a good role for Nelly too.

“I assume you know about what’s going on with Slate? I might come by later, ask him if he can use his connections one more time to ensure the safety of those left in the Arena. If you get to him first, tell him that.” The man needs to get off his ass and produce results, is what Griffin wants to say, but it’s unfortunately not the time to be devolving into such talk. Instead, he focuses on what else they can do to make sure all their bases are covered, both for the people here, and the ones left in the Arena. “I’ll try to stay out for as long as I can to make sure as many people are accounted for once the rest are secured. Maybe get a few more sponsorships in too. Anything you think Zero and his crew need?”

...

It’s rather simple to forget any of the lingering bitterness and animosity that they still haven’t fully confronted yet in this moment. There’s no time for personal feelings just now, and that, mercifully, is a path that Silver has always been skilled at following. Despite the way their heart is beating much too fast, the static loud in their ears, they find it simple to set aside any emotions for how many people will be counting on them both to manage this. It means they need to trust Griffin, and they do, for much the same reason that Plutarch said he chose the two of them; he’s as willing to do anything for those he cares for as they are, and yet he also can understand when it’s time to let others do the more dangerous tasks. So in the same way he seems willing to trust and count on them, they’re prepared to continue to do the same.

“Yes, Slate did his best to make it clear that he’s still on our side. I’ll make certain he knows now is the time to put his choice to play along again to use,” they nod, making a mental note of that, although they don’t think their mind will forget something so dire, unless the distortion ups its cruelty suddenly. “As will I. Exceptionally carefully. We can’t wait until the last moment, though, no matter how much we might want to personally assure they all make it,” Silver adds, knowing Griffin is aware of it, but feeling the need to put it to words for their own sake, too. No time to play martyrs, despite the penance they want for. “I’m going to try to send him the tools he’ll need to do the job and keep others protected, as well as how much longer they have to keep things up. It’s just as Plutarch said, in the absence of the tributes killing each other, they’ll turn the Arena against them. Food and water might help them keep going, but it won’t stop that. They’ll likely need weapons.” And even then, they’re not sure that would be enough.

#( griffin. ) #( griffin 006. ) #( chapter 7. )

[silverostro]

othcrhalf​:

ROBYN WISHES THEY could stay in this embrace for the rest of the next hour, if not for the rest of this day entirely, and perhaps in any other situation, Silver would have allowed for it to happen, and maybe it would have, but the both of them know well enough that there’s far too much to do, with the way things have been progressing in the Games. Wrapped up around him, Silver mentions going to find more sponsors, and Robyn doesn’t have to ask about it to know how desperately Silver wants to do something about Zero and the others’ situation. But there’s something in their voice that tells Robyn there’s more to this than what they’re saying. They sound a little breathless, a little frazzled, and perhaps to anyone else, it wouldn’t be too different from the norm that this year’s Games have enforced upon them all, but to him, so accustomed to the sound of their smooth voice in his ear, so aware of every tiny catch and every small change in their tone, it’s crystal clear that they’ve got something more to say. And when they lower their voice even more into a whisper and speak, Robyn almost stops breathing entirely.

A shudder runs across their body as their mind immediately begins to try and make sense of the situation, a million different questions all coming in at once, but they say nothing, as they always have whenever Silver is forced to unload a great deal of information on them. Six hours, they say, and something about a hidden passage through the kitchen. It’s time to leave, and they have to tell as many people as they can. Immediately, Robyn feels the weight of this, the panic making his skin prickle and his stomach twist and turn unpleasantly; his immediate thoughts are knowing they’ll have to be separated from Silver after this, knowing there will be a great plenty of things for the two of them — and Silver especially — to do. Almost automatically, their fingers claw into Silver as they tighten their hold, not wanting to let go, part of them briefly, momentarily considering sinking back into selfishness, into begging Silver to go there with them now so they can both be safe. But he remembers the promises they had told one another in that hallway, all the progress they’ve both made, as individuals, as people, both together and apart — the vows they had said unto the ether, about securing a future for everyone, about helping fix what they had contributed to breaking before.

And now Silver is giving them the opportunity, assigning them a task. They know exactly where to send him; Robyn would have considered those on his own too, even should Silver have left the decision to them. Four and Seven, of course. “Y-yes.” The response is shaky, their body once again shuddering, their voice soft, just as breathless as Silver’s, perhaps even more. He looks into their eyes now as they look into his, and he brings both hands up to their face, fingers resting upon their cheeks. Robyn is certain they’ll be looking a little fearful now, but they nod determinedly at Silver as they affirm their response, “Yes, I will. I…” They swallow, barely understanding exactly what it is they’re even feeling. On one hand, escape seems so close at hand, a possibility to leave this place once and for all, and yet, on the other, so much else has to happen before even any modicum of safety can be achieved. And there’s so much more they want to ask too. “I can handle Four and Seven. I will handle Four and Seven. Count on me.”

Immediately, Robyn pulls Silver back into that embrace again, keeping their voice soft and low still. They need to speak as silently as they can, but they need their warmth too, now more than ever if they’re meant to make it through these next six hours. “Please tell me more. Are there other ways through to this safe place? Will your allies be taking care of the other districts…?” And part of them wants to ask about the Tributes in the Arena, wants to know what’s going to happen to them, but they’re scared of the answer too. Scared of even uttering the question aloud.

...

It’s a great deal to put on their shoulders all at once, but it seems that that’s the way things are in situations such as this. There’s no time for small moments, no time to build up to the grand picture and ease Robyn into anything, just as Silver themself has sat in the dark hoping that the cogs were still moving until Plutarch had suddenly given them everything at once. They feel Robyn’s body shudder against them, and can only imagine how overwhelmed they must feel, too, in an entirely different way, perhaps, with the implication of it all. It’s the chance that they had spoken of when Silver had finally been able to tell him everything, the chance to undo some of the harm that they were apart of causing, to offer the chance of a better future to those around them, and to find an ounce of penance for all that they did to contribute to the pain over the years, in their different ways, thanks to the Capitol’s influence and their choices because of it. But that doesn’t make it something simple to swallow. Saying the words and making the promise are very different than being faced with the dangerous reality of doing just that. They wouldn’t blame them one bit if, facing it all, Robyn chose not to do what Silver plans, in fact, they would feel a selfish sense of relief to be able to send Robyn to the spot immediately, to know that they’re safe.

But they know Robyn perhaps better than they know their own mind, and they know that he won’t shrink from the opportunity presented to him. No matter the risk, they’ve both promised to do this together, and they know that they’re not going to go back on that promise. The danger is worth it if it means the chance at a better future for them all, and a better future together. They can’t let themself think so far ahead when there’s much to be done in the midst of so much danger in the next six hours to insure they all make it that far, but it’s motivation, determination, to do all they can to see that future together, and to make certain their loved ones are there, too. They can see the fear in Robyn’s eyes, but they can also see their own determination reflected back in the brown depths, as their hands move to their face. Silver leans into the touch, and nods. “I know you will. I trust you with my heart, don’t I?” they say, giving them a small smile, full of tenderness, despite their own franticness. 

Robyn pulls them back into a tight embrace, and they’re glad for it for a plethora of reasons. The warmth of the touch is something they want to cling to while they can, the uncertainty of the next six hours terrifying to consider, but it also serves a purpose. They reply quickly, and quietly. “There’s a more direct route through the hallways; those who are in less danger of Peacekeeper interference should take that path, but anyone who’s been vocally resistant, or is directly involved with Griffin or me should take the kitchen. Griffin is taking care of Twelve, and he has Ashfrost taking care of the other upper Districts. I’ve already spoken to Aven, and I’ll find Slate next. We need to move in waves, we can’t all go at once, of course,” they say all at once, knowing Robyn well enough to know they’ll take it all in quickly. “We need to try for last minute sponsorships, but do so carefully. We won’t get to witness the end of the Games, we’ll be in route to pick up the tributes by then, but we’ll set them up as best we can. They’ll do the rest, just as we are here.”

A pause, in which they close their eyes momentarily, holding Robyn a little tighter once again, indulging in that feeling. There is nothing that will stop their thoughts from racing now, they’re well aware of that, but the feeling of Robyn’s embrace reminds them why they’re doing all of this. They only wish that it were possible for them to do the work side by side, instead of knowing they’ll have to part ways for at least a good amount of the next six hours to get everything that needs to be done first finished, and set up those in the Arena to make it out, too. They pull back just slightly, enough so that they can press a kiss to Robyn’s temple, lingering for a second, putting all of the unspoken feeling into it. “I wish we could do our work hand in hand.”

#( robyn. ) #( robyn 014. ) #( chapter 7. ) #in my mind i was like 'i won't possibly match' #then this happened rip pls shorten it again

[silverostro]

HEADCANON: Slate & Silver, before talking to Auburn ( @hcrdcreeks. )

Despite knowing that Aven has likely already talked to Slate by the time they make it down to Two, Silver finds it impossible not to seek out their old friend themself, too, before they continue on their work. It’s an indulgence, but a necessary one. They want to make sure that he knows that he has people who are still looking out for him, trying to make it clear that they want to make sure he makes it, too. It’s a relatively simple conversation between two old friends, but it’s chalk full of meaning and understanding. Silver understands that there’s still work Slate needs to do, just as they have as well, to find even an ounce of penance for all they’ve been apart of since their own respective victories. As Griffin requested, they make mention of now being the time to do that and get to work for those in the Arena, despite knowing that Slate has no one of his own left to aid. They trust him, though, and they know that he’s intelligent and strategic enough to have a plan to find a way to help without arousing suspicion. They attempt to find some optimism as they leave, despite how worried they are that Slate will actually make it to the escape himself, telling him to send someone to find them again if he needs anything before they see each other next.

#( slate. ) #( slate 007. ) #( chapter 7. ) #ayyyy #feel free to add anything else ofc if i missed anything!!

[silverostro]

NPC HEADCANON ft. Auburn (the Avox), and kind of Digit ( @embersnpc. )

In a brief interlude after speaking to Slate, but before heading back down to where the sponsors and spectators often mingle to seek out any last minute aid for Zero and the others that they can, they stop back in Three. First, they make a point of collecting their most important notebooks, only a few, not enough that would make it seem strange that they’re carrying so many around. They take a half-finished letter out of one notebook, and leave it in Digit’s room, mercifully empty just now, despite most of the contents being no longer relevant given the way things turned out between them. Still, it only feels fair, knowing now they’re making the choice to leave her in a different sort of danger by not giving her what they know. If someone else chooses to tell her, they won’t fault them for it, but they can’t bring themself to go so far in their acceptance of what she did to them, in the understanding she wasn’t willing to offer them in return. Leaving the note feels like an ending to them, and it’s a relief, in a strange way, even in the midst of so much panic and uncertainty. 

Coming out of her room, Auburn is standing nearby, clearly watching them, a slight frown on her face, curious, knowing how things have been in Three’s suite since they were thrown back after their torture. They explain to her that it was time to stop ignoring the issue, because there are greater things to deal. They wish desperately that they could write now, but without that option, they do their best to carefully tell her how to escape anyway. They frame it as believing they must have left one of their notebooks somewhere while they were seeking out sponsors, tell her that Robyn might remember better than them, but they haven’t seen them since losing it. All they can do is hope that their message is somewhat clear in the look they offer, and the mention of Robyn, hoping that they can send them to her to give written instructions, if she doesn’t find them first. Silver thanks her for everything she’s done for the two of them, though, before they leave again to get back to work.

#( headcanon. ) #( auburn. ) #( digit. ) #:`) #blows kiss @ sky 4 becky

[silverostro]

losinqtouch​:

Aven means to tell Silver about the conversation with Heron, but it’s clear to her that they’ve got something even bigger to say, especially as they start leading her elsewhere, so she lets them go first. The revelations they put on her one after the other understandably shock her, but she’s able to corroborate the information she knows once the initial panic subsides. She’s relieved, albeit astonished to know that not only is Heron truly one of the good guys but that she’d been a friend to Aurelia and Plutarch too. Immediately afterward, she jumps into planning with Silver, and talking about who else there is left to collect. She’d already gone to Slate earlier on, despite her uncertainty regarding his loyalties, but she learns from Silver now that Slate appears to be concocting a plan of his own, which had involved making it appear as though he’d returned to the Capitol for good; despite the fact that Slate couldn’t tell her this himself, she’s relieved to know the truth, and she thanks Silver for letting her know about all this. The worry for one another is clear, so saying goodbye for the moment is difficult, but they manage it, and as quick as the hug ends up being, Aven gives it back with as much intensity and care as she can before splitting up.

#( aven. ) #( aven 005. ) #( chapter 7. ) #i cry!!!!!!! #( headcanon. )

[silverostro]

The moment the door closes, it feels as if they have a clock tick, tock-ing in their mind, and they tuck the paper with the names inside their jacket pocket, before looking down at the watch on their left wrist, and setting an alarm for five and a half hours with a bit of struggle. They wish desperately they could write in their notebook, so much information rattling around in their mind, and so many things that need to be done. No time to waste, though, they’re glad Griffin understands that need as well. Of course, Twelve is his priority, just as the lower Districts are theirs. They nod along with his plan, no reason to contradict any of it.

“Yes, of course. And I do trust Ashfrost to make certain others are safe, it’s a logical plan. What does he love more than a ridiculously distracting fight?” they say, without any hint of irony, but perhaps a tough of something grim. There’s a high chance that in the process of giving Ashfrost those responsibilities, he’ll inevitably cause the distractions they’ll need on his own, and Silver knows that Griffin is intelligent enough to realize that, too. No need to linger just now with that settled, though. “Yes, I’ll take care of Two, Four, Five and Seven; Robyn will be more than willing to help. We need to make certain they don’t all follow the same path at the same time, though. The most obviously connected to us and treasonous thought should arrive through the kitchen passage, the safer amongst us can take the way we came in. We need to push the most in danger to arrive first. I’ll tell Robyn to send Swann immediately, she can help keep things in order here.”

FT. SILVER OSTRO ( @silverostro​​​ ) | QUARTER QUELL, DAY 4. immediately after the plutarch talk

THE DOOR CLOSES on them, and Plutarch is gone. Six hours has officially begun. Griffin fights hard not to let aimless panic take over, fights hard not to run to the door, open it, and chase after Plutarch, fights hard not to waste any more time. With a deep inhale, he turns right away to Silver, getting down to the important business straight away. “First thing’s first,” he starts, almost shocked by how breathless he sounds, and it hits him just then exactly how fast his heart is beating, and how loudly it’s thudding in his ears. But he push, and moves on. “Multiple lines of communication. My main priority still lies with Twelve, but there are stops I can make along the way.” He moves closer, brows furrowed, despite knowing that this is a place of safety for them.

“I know how you feel about him, but we can count on DeeZee to tell his friends in the upper districts while I make sure Fava, Hudson, and Nelly make it to safety,” he explains, voice low, before continuing. “I assume you and your connections can take care of the first few and middle districts?”

#( griffin. ) #( griffin 006. ) #( chapter 7. ) #I'M KEEPING IT SHORT LOOK

[silverostro]

HEADCANON: AVEN & SILVER, RIGHT AFTER ROBYN AND SILVER PART UP AGAIN ( @losinqtouch )

It doesn’t take long for Silver to find one of the other names on their half of the list. As soon as they see Aven, they lead her away into the familiar hallway’s blindspot they’ve been using. Still, they’re careful, using the code that she’s made fun of them for many times in the past. They convey everything they’ve learned to her, and tell her to head to the spot soon, worried for their old friend’s safety, wanting to know that she’ll be there waiting when they arrive, but they understand that she has her own obligations first, too, and don’t tell her not to go find Emory, and Slate. They do tell her that they intend to find Slate, too, though.  In the course of the conversation, she tells them about the talk with Heron, and they make Plutarch’s message clear to her, that Heron was a friend of Aurelia’s, and that she’s on their side; that, if she’s going to seek anyone else out before leaving, Heron should likely be one of them. After mentioning their plan to try one last time to send Zero aid, they know they need to leave, having spent too much time talking already, but they find it hard to say goodbye to Aven, the worry deep, the image of Zero leaving Nilla clear in their mind. Neither of them are big on physical affection, but they can’t help but give her a quick hug before leaving.

#( aven. ) #( aven 005. ) #( chapter 7. ) #this is so much #but in my defense i'm emo and needed to put it all down #( headcanon. )

[silverostro]

othcrhalf​:

SILVER’S HANDS IMMEDIATELY move to their waist, pulling him close to them as he touches every single part of them that he can in that moment of relief, and all it does is loosen the screws keeping his control in place. The embrace happens before they can stop it, and Silver moves naturally into it, wrapping their arms around him too, pressing both their bodies even closer to one another. Robyn closes his eyes and rests his head against theirs, a hand moving up behind their neck to keep them there, close to him. “Yes. Thank you,” they respond, their voice practically a whisper as they take in the weight of Silver’s words. They’ve already spoken at length about it with Twig, and the Mentor from Seven has thanked them enough, but it’s meaningful to hear from Silver too, who’s done nothing but support and hold them throughout this entire experience. “I’m so glad it worked,” they continue, feeling something well up in the back of their throat as the relief returns to them again, the images of Harbor finally receiving his sponsorship and immediately putting them to good use flashing through his mind again. “They gave me leave to contact my parents, and it worked.”

Robyn squeezes once, not so hard, just because they can’t help it, just because they still can’t believe that they’ve managed to convince their parents to move at last, before relaxing again, still in Silver’s gentle hold. They sigh, rest their chin on their shoulder, and open their eyes, their vision only slightly blurry. They hold it back, so tired of crying at this point when it’s already been days of this, and not wanting to worry Silver so much either when they’ve got bigger things to think about. They inhale deeply, hoping to calm themself down again, and as they do, they breathe in Silver’s scent, match the subtle movement of breath in their body too, before exhaling. They wish they didn’t have to depend on Silver so much like this, but it’s something else entirely to get to see them, to hold them. Robyn can practically feel their energy building back up the longer they stay in this embrace. “Where are you headed next?” they ask softly, still pressed close, their head against Silver’s.

...

Silver takes this moment to do their best to memorize this feeling all over again. They’ve done so before, but this feels all the more important to remember this embrace, the way they feel right now, chest aching, so much love for the person they’re holding onto, the chance to finally help give them something better than this, better than having to beg their parents to step out of inaction to give their brother help as he fights for his life. A small hum, proud as it is, leaves their lips, but they close their eyes, sinking into the feeling as Robyn squeezes just so. Their chin seems to fit so perfectly against Silver’s shoulder that it feels nearly impossible. Their warmth is motivating, their deep, steady breaths calming. They can tell that Robyn is as overwhelmed as they are, and they wish they didn’t have to push more on them now, but there’s no time to waste. “I’m...heading towards the sponsors, but I need to make a few pitstops along the way,” they mutter, trying their hardest to keep their breathing steady, keep the panic from setting in deeper and the distortion from overwhelming them. They don’t let go of Robyn, they don’t want to anyway, but it also serves a purpose. It’s easier this way to keep quiet, words whispered into their ear, less risk of anyone hearing, something only for them. 

“It’s time, Robyn. We have six hours, but the sooner the better. There’s a door through the kitchen, that’s where you need to go, and tell others to go, too.” Only then do they pull back, just slightly, just enough to look Robyn in the eyes, his beautiful brown eyes that they love so much. They don’t want to let go, can’t, for fear of all that could happen by asking them to do what they already promised, stand by their side and help them through this. Selfishly, they want to tell Robyn to go now, forget anyone else and get himself safe immediately, but they know that’s not fair; Robyn’s already made it clear to them that they’ve made the same choice Silver has, after all.

Their hand moves to Robyn’s check, gloved fingers brushing over his skin softly. “Will you talk to Seven? Twig, Dawn, Ivory,” they say, as if there’s a question of who they’re speaking about. It dawns on them that there are several names that fit a little too perfectly in the distraction category Plutarch suggested, and the latter is one of them. They’re not sure they can consider that more deeply just now, though. And rather grimly they think that perhaps they won’t have to, when it comes to Ivory, that she might inevitably play the martyr herself, along with one of her other angry close friends. That thought makes them feel sick, so they try to push it aside for now, Ten isn’t theirs to worry about, anyway, but... “Four, too, of course. Swann. Better if you talk to her. Safer.”

#( robyn. ) #( robyn 014. ) #( chapter 7. ) #this is frantic af can u feel it

[silverostro]

embersnpc​:

givcnup​:

NO TIME TO ask questions even as Plutarch mentions Fava, with Silver swimming right into view at that exact moment. Griffin, mouth still open but unable to speak, has no choice but to listen as Plutarch does a rundown of everything that’s meant to happen in the next few hours, one bullet point and reminder after another, and even once he’s finished, it’s Silver that’s the first to ask. Griffin shuts his mouth, then, knowing that despite their differences, he and they are of the same mind when it comes to Plutarch, to all these plans being made around them without their full, express knowledge.

And of course Ostro doesn’t disappoint, immediately thinking to ask about how they’re meant to be supporting the ones left in the Arena, people whose safety remain incredibly integral to the ones they’re meant to be getting out of this tower, from a distance, a point of blindness. He won’t lie, it makes him uncomfortable knowing they won’t be seeing the end of it, and it makes him worry over how difficult it might be to get people out when they would clearly want to know what happens to their loved ones first, but he understands that it’s necessary to move now. They mention Peacekeeper interference too, another major factor, as well as this escape mission’s transport capacity. Griffin couldn’t have said it better himself.

“Well. There. They said it,” he says, one arm sweeping out. “Would like to know all that too.”

He’s not as much of a thinker as Silver is, and where they often are able to choose their words well, Griffin prefers to talk through what’s going on in his head. “Additionally,” he goes on to say, letting his own stream of consciousness inform his mouth all the things it wants to. “I’m thinking about how the hell we’re meant to get a whole bunch of people here exactly. I would guess six hours is enough, we’re all in one Tower after all, we’ll just have to pass it along separate lines of communication, but it’s the Peacekeepers I’m worried about the most. Large groups of people are going to attract their attention, but a few people at a time would take too long too…”

All in all, he supposes it could be summed up in one very important question. “Who else can we trust?” he says, giving Plutarch a hard look. “I get that you were big on keeping direct involvement secret, but at this point, we need to know if there are others from the Capitol that are in on the cause too, people we can trust to help usher in others and pass the message along. Peacekeepers might be less alert or suspicious around their ilk; they could be convinced. If it’s all just Victors and friends on the move, we’re at risk of being stopped and captured, but if there were others around to blur the line…” It occurs to him that there could be no others, but how would that have worked? How could Plutarch have kept it going this whole time if there weren’t others in the Capitol like him? There have to be more. “So do we have other friends in high places?”

–

Coin had expressed concern over who Plutarch picked to help bring this all to fruition. But he stood up for them. He spoke on their behalf and he knew he’d made the right choice. As he stands there before the two of them, and they rattle off their questions, he’s all the more confident that this is right. They were the right choice. They will make this work. 

He doesn’t let them see the way his hands are shaking, fingers tucked into his arms as they’re crossed over his chest. He hums and nods along to their fair questions, and begins to answer after they have finished.

“Well, there will come a point when we can’t help them anymore. You’re going to have to juggle getting your friends here, and getting the last of your sponsors. I know it’s not ideal, and it’s not going to be easy, but there’s going to have to be an element of faith that those in there, had taken their training and planning very seriously.” And that some just wont make it, he thinks to add but refrains. They’re all fragile from the loves ones they’ve all lost. Including himself.

He looks down to the ground for the moment, wishing that he could be more help to Silver’s next question. “That’s just going to have to be what you take into account. Unfortunately, many of you have raised the interest of the Capitol, some might have to offer as distractions.” Which leaves the unsaid statement he lays out there. Some wont be able to come with. “Which I hope you both understand, cannot be you two. We need you here, not to play the martyr.” He gives them both a firm look before he pushes himself off the table and reaches into his inside breast pocket, pulling out a pen and a small pad of paper.

“We can fit about twenty in aircraft, and then take whomever is in the arena. Some have left this morning, helping with preparations once we arrive in Thirteen.” He’s keeping his eyes down on the pad, scribbling names. “I’m going to give this to you. These people are not rebels but they are rather sympathetic. You’ll likely get more sponsors from them. Find Heron, Aurelia and I spent a lot of time with her over the years and she’s my right hand. Emerald and Coco are also a help. Unfortunately we’ve lost a lot of our help. We’re operating on a much smaller force now.” His jaw tenses, and he tears out the sheet, handing it to Silver. 

He walks between the two of them, in the direction of the door. “There’s the way you got here, there’s also a hallway through the kitchen that leads to that door. If you all come this way, it’ll be a giveaway.” He gestures to a second door adjacent to the first. When she turns back around, he looks at the two of them, trying to give a smile. “I trust both of you. I hope you know that I have always believed you both were the best option for this, because I knew you would do everything for the people you love.” His hand wraps around the door, and he nods. “Good luck.” And then, he’s gone.

The clock begins to tick.

END.

#( plutarch. ) #( plutarch 001. ) #( griffin. ) #( griffin 006. ) #( chapter 7. ) #i'm LOSING MY MIND

[silverostro]

losinqtouch​:

JUST AS LITTLE as Silver can say to provide any real comfort in the midst of sudden grief, there’s even less that Aven can do to help them with their plans. They say it bluntly, telling her that there’s so much they need — to be doing, to be arranging, to be thinking about and planning for — but that they won’t be able to find it here either, and Aven had known as much. Still, while partaking of refreshments together is the least they could be doing right now, it seems like it may be the most helpful if they want to stay sane on some level. So Aven nods as well and pushes herself up and off the couch, hands immediately getting to work on setting the cold mugs from earlier aside on a separate tray. The Avox nearby gets to work right away, taking that away for her and, having listened well enough, begins to make preparations for tea. Aven doesn’t have the heart to stop them and say she’ll do it herself. 

She wants to believe in what Silver is saying. Promising, rather. There’s still hope left, they’d said, and she wants desperately to think that. She doesn’t want to imagine what would happen if there wasn’t any hope left at all.

“Yeah,” she says, much later than she’d intended, when the Avox from earlier has already begun setting things up. “Yeah, tea sounds good.”

END

#( aven. ) #( aven 004. ) #( chapter 7. ) #🥺 the end 🥺

[silverostro]

losinqtouch​:

“YES, IT IS,” Aven says with a solemn nod. On one hand, it feels like it’s hitting her so hard everywhere all at once that she’s become completely numbed to it, but on the other, it’s as if the reality of her entirely innocent cousin’s needless and unnecessary onscreen death still hasn’t fully hit her either. Hard to tell which it truly is in this moment, but she’s glad she isn’t alone, glad she’s got somebody else with her to figure out how to deal with this exactly. Silver has no other words to say beyond the ones they’ve already told her, and she can tell they haven’t any more, but Aven accepts this. They’ve thought it several times over now, and they’re thinking it again; they don’t expect any more from Silver than they’ve already tried to give her. Their company is enough, even when the two of them end up having to sit in silence for a time. Their presence, the fact that they had chosen to come here so quickly, likely even heading here first immediately after the broadcast, is enough. 

After yet another moment of silence is shared between them, Aven shakes her head and sits up just a bit straighter. She turns to her friend and sees how tired they are, their face lined and weary, even more so than usual, worse than on those sleepless nights they’ve spent together all these years as friends, just talking — worse than when she’d go to them and they’d be busy working, busy jotting things down with that code of theirs inside that journal. “Is there anything you need?” she starts softly. “We could get some snacks ready. Tea, or some form of caffeine?” Aven purses her lips and shrugs. “Feels like these next few days are going to be sleepless ones for all of us.” If they all even make it for that long, Aven finds her mind, unhelpfully, muttering right afterward, but she quashes that negativity. This can’t be it. There has to be a plan.

...

Over and over again since arriving back in Three after the end of last year’s Victory Tour––something that feels like decades away now, something they have to hope isn’t going to happen at all this year––they’ve wished that they could all speak plainly and honestly. It feels like such a disservice to be unable to give all of their thoughts to the people they care about in times such as these, but it’s felt even more hopeless the past few weeks, the need to be even more careful so evident they can hardly even find a way to offer each other hope, when things as intangible as that don’t feel like enough anymore, watching loved ones die, knowing the danger they’re all in outside of the Arena, too. They’ve always been used to hiding their true thoughts and ideas, of course, came up with the way to do just that years and years ago, but now even that’s been taken from them, and they find themself wishing so deeply they could simply write Aven one of their old coded messages now, give her all the details they know, even if they’re not certain any of it can happen any longer, so at least she could find hope in those facts, the dim sliver that they’re holding onto, too. But the Capitol took that from them, too.

Silver lets out a little breath, eyes moving down to their gloved hands in their lap, static much too loud to think clearly just now. It’s all so exceptionally cruel, and they hate to know that Nilla’s death, or their fingers’ loss, or any of the other cruelty and pain inflicted by the Capitol isn’t nearly the last of it, even if the plan is still in place. Luckily, Aven’s voice distracts them from that thought. They can’t help but let out a little wry laugh. “There’s a great deal that I need, but I don’t think we’ll find it here. But you’re right, perhaps we could do with some caffeine. Keep us going until things are clearer, and we figure out how to keep marching forward,” Silver says with a nod, looking over at their friend. The next words are something of a compulsion, as much for her sake, as for their own, as if saying them out into the air, even quietly, a secret exchanged between two old friends, might make it the truth. “Things will change, Aven; I promise there’s still hope left. But first, tea, I suppose.”

#( aven. ) #( aven 004. ) #( chapter 7. ) #we can fade out here or in urs if you want!