#cgtaskfive

[aphroditecirrelo]

Aphrodite/Cosima interview

@cosima-silamide

“Are you ready?” Aphrodite asked as the two of them stood at the edge of the stage. She was glad that they were one of the first to take to the stage. It gave them more time to relax together after the last hurdle between them and the games. It felt like they had been in the tribute centre for months despite it only being a couple of weeks, but now it was clear that their time was running out.

“Of course I am,” Cosima replied, placing a reassuring hand on Aphrodite’s arm. She glanced out at the stage then back at Aphrodite before letting her hand slide to her waist. “I’m kind of excited,” she admitted, looking up excitedly at the other girl.  

“And now we are welcoming to the stage two people who I’m very excited to meet.” Dora said on the stage, holding out an arm towards the two of them. “The reigning choice couple of the 99th Annual Hunger Games – Aphrodite and Cosima!”

The crowd erupted into applause and Aphrodite took Cosima’s hand, the two of them walking out onto the stage to the sound of a thunderous audience. There were more people than Aphrodite had anticipated, but she followed Cosima’s lead, flashing smiles and waves at the audience as they made their way over to Dora.

Dora grabbed hold of Cosima first, giving each cheek a kiss before turning to Aphrodite, who held out a hand and raised an eyebrow as Dora went to kiss her too. Dora hesitated, her smile flickering for a second, before the mask was reinstated. She took Aphrodite’s hand and gripped it tightly, and Aphrodite fought back a laugh as she shook the woman’s hand, letting go as soon as she was able and finding Cosima’s hand once again.

After a bit more fanfare, the two of them made themselves comfortable on the sofa opposite Dora, sitting far closer than they needed to as they readied themselves for Dora’s onslaught.

“Well, well, well,” Dora said, settling back into her chair and giving the two of them her most charming smile, “I have to say – I’m a huge fan of yours. It’s been so wonderful seeing the two of you grow closer over the past couple of weeks.”

Aphrodite glanced over at Cosima, unsure of whether or not they were supposed to respond to Dora, but just as she was about to say something Dora continued onwards, and Aphrodite sank into the sofa with her arm around Cosima.

“Now, first things first – because we’re all dying to know – Cosima,” Dora’s head twitched towards the smaller of the two, “how did it feel having to… share Aphrodite over the past couple of weeks?”

Cosima’s composure didn’t break at the question - she had been expecting it. Maybe not immediately in the interview, but it was bound to come up. “It was torture,” she said with a laugh, taking Aphrodite’s free hand in her own. “I’ve liked her from the beginning, and patience isn’t my strong suit.” Cosima looked over at Aphrodite, then back to Dora. “She was worth the wait, though, now that she’s all mine.”

Dora clapped her hands together in delight, the slight narrowing of her eyes barely visible as her gaze moved from Cosima to Aphrodite.

“We were right there with you, Cosima. I know a lot of us at home were on the edge of our seats waiting for Aphrodite to make a decision.”

The audience hooted their agreement and Aphrodite looked towards Cosima with a grin.

“It’s hard getting to know so many people in such a short space of time, Dora.” She said, meeting Dora’s searching eyes head on. “But Cosima was always at the top of my list.” She pulled Cosima slightly closer to her, their legs touching as Dora looked on with a patronising smile. Aphrodite smiled back, daring Dora to test the two of them and excited for the myriad of potential outcomes.

“Yes,” Dora said, leaning closer, “and what a long, inclusive list that was.” She laughed along with the audience, a shrill bubblegum laugh that sent a chill up Aphrodite’s spine. “And how exactly did you decide that Cosima was the one?”

Aphrodite pressed a tongue to her cheek, looking first at Cosima and then at Dora before letting out a soft chuckle.

“I thought to myself: ‘who out of everyone here do I want to make it out alive with?’” She looked at Cosima and bit her lip. “And the answer was right in front of me.”

And then they make out for the rest of the interview.

“Well,” Dora guffawed, raising an eyebrow and looking towards the audience, eliciting a few hoots of laughter. “If people doubted your intentions for Cosima before, I’m sure you’ve swayed them with that answer.”

Aphrodite bowed her head to disguise her laughter, pulling Cosima closer still and letting the audience vocalise their feelings without a single comment on her behalf. She could sense Dora watching her, but chose to ignore it, instead meeting Cosima’s eye and sharing a knowing smile with her.

“I take it you’re both more than happy to be the Capitol’s choice couple then?” Dora asked.

“We’ve both been ecstatic,” Cosima laughed, moving her hand to Aphrodite’s leg and glancing at the audience before looking back to Dora. “Knowing that we have so many people supporting us has really been special.” 

Dora let out her manufactured laugh once again. “Oh yes, my dear, I can only imagine. And what about you, Aphrodite?”

The only thing keeping Aphrodite from really speaking her mind was the knowledge that anything she haid from here on our could be used against Cosima, so she held her tongue, choosing to fix Dora with the kindest smile she could muster.

“Yeah, totally.” She said, nodding sagely. “Having the Capitol on our side makes all the difference in the world.”

Dora scoffed, letting the enchanting mask slip once again.

“I’m sure it does, my dear.” Bitterness tinged her voice, along with what sounded like vindication. “I’m sure it does.”

This was the first time it seemed like the audience had picked up on the change in atmosphere the same way that Aphrodite had, but the facade was brought back quickly, and all of a sudden Dora’s beaming smile was on all the screens around them.

“I’m afraid that’s all we have time for, but I wish the both of you the best of luck, and I hope the knowledge that we’re all rooting for you brings you some comfort during your time in the arena.”

 They stood up and exchanged goodbyes, Aphrodite’s hand finding Cosima’s waist as they gave one final bow and started to walk off the stage. Behind them, the screen lit up with videos of their Districts. People Aphrodite barely knew and didn’t care for taking pride of place on the screen, describing their lives back home and how they thought the two of them would fare in the arena. Aphrodite even caught a glance of her mother, but instead focused all her attention on Cosima as they left the stage and the enigmatic Dora behind them.

“That was fun.” Aphrodite said with a smirk.

#interview #cgtaskfive #she's finally here

[lyrasilverspring]

Valkyrie’s Interview

“And now on to our first single tribute, your chosen Villain: Valkyrie Maddox!” Dora Tale’s voice was sugar-sweet and near ultrasonic in pitch. Valkyrie had already grown tired of listening to it babble across the couple interviews. She’d paid little attention to the interviews so far, picking up titbits every now and then, but mostly trying to imagine herself anywhere else- preferably drunk.

As the music started, she took a second to consider what would happen if she just didn’t go, but she didn’t particularly feel like being dragged on stage. The interview would be bad enough already, no need to make it worse when there was no way she was getting out of it. She walked on calmly and neutrally, not quick, not eager, not slow or reluctant. She sat in the chair opposite, looking out over the audience but not bothering to offer them a smile or a wave. She turned to Tale, eyebrow raised expectantly.

“A pleasure to meet you Valkyrie, or should I say V?” she smiled familiarly, clearly expecting V’s attitude, “We’ve been watching you and my goodness have you really made quite the stir in your time here at the Capitol.”

Valkyrie looked at her expectant face, uncomfortable being so openly reduced to nothing more than entertainment for the masses, “Yes,” she answered plainly, “I prefer to be called V.”

The laugh Dora let out in response was unnerving- tinkling and bright but utterly hollow, “Just as taciturn in person I see! Don’t worry dear, I know you’re just meeting all of us, but we’ve been watching you for so long now we might as well be family!”

“I don’t have any family,” Valkyrie shrugged, “So I don’t know that that helps me so much.”

Dora and the audience let out a sad ‘aww’ and Valkyrie squirmed slightly, “Is that, perhaps,” Dora began, “Why you’ve been so distant from the rest of the tributes? I’m sure it’s a big shift to go from no one at all in the world to such a big new family!”

Valkyrie frowned at her, “The other tributes aren’t my family. The only thing they have in common with my family is that they will also be killed by the Capitol. Besides, this is the most social I’ve been in years. I understand that I appear distant to others, but by my standards I might as well be a social butterfly.”

Dora’s face twitched slightly at the mention of the Capitol, but brightened exaggeratedly at the latter statement, “I understand, V,” she turned to the audience, “We all know how difficult it can be for the socially… challenged to meet new people, and if that’s the case then we’re no doubt all very impressed by what you have achieved here.”

Valkyrie raised her brow, “Well you can’t be that impressed, you voted for me to be the Villain,” she pointed out.

Again, false laughter fell from Dora’s mouth, though more aggressive this time, “Oh Valkyrie! Sorry, V- that just means that we love to hate you my dear. The love is still there, don’t you worry!” she reached out as if to bop Valkyrie’s nose, but met only air and she flinched back, hard, “Who would have thought the mighty Valkyrie so skittish ladies and gentlemen!” she laughed to the audience.

Dora looked over at Valkyrie expectantly, but she genuinely had nothing to say in response to what had just happened.

“One can’t help but wonder,” Dora began, her voice taking on a sly edge, “If it was this kind of squirrely resistance to basic human contact that drove the wedge between you and district five’s Aphrodite?”

Valkyrie stiffened slightly and watched Dora’s eyes narrow in on the movement, straightening before answering, “I suspect that wasn’t it, though I could be wrong.”

Dora leaned further forward in her chair, closing about half of the distance Valkyrie had created, “Well what can you tell us about the ill-fated relationship of Aphrodite and Valkyrie? I’m sure everyone would love to know- you seemed so sweetly in love that night in the bathroom.”

Valkyrie’s face darkened, “Relationship is a strong word. I would say we never got to that stage. We were intrigued by each other, but it never would have worked. And it didn’t.”

“Well we all saw that!” Dora laughed lightly, “Honestly when she threatened to kill you I could have been knocked over by a stiff breeze I was so shocked! We all expected it from you, of course, what with the whole-“ she vaguely waved her hand at V, “But from Aphrodite! It was truly shocking, especially after the dance, and the way she pulled you in as if she was going to kiss you, and then bam! Death threat and she left. And honestly, my dear, we’ve been watching and you really haven’t been the same since. The alcohol? Oh, it was just tragic to watch wasn’t it folks?” she turned to the audience for a brief reaction before continuing eagerly, “You know there were still a few people holding out for you and Aphrodite to patch things up but I guess now that boat has well and truly sailed for you, hasn’t it?”

Valkyrie was overwhelmed and uncomfortable, and feeling very caged in, “Yes, I’m sure that was a very difficult time for all the viewers at home,” she heard the sarcasm leak into her voice as it turned colder.

“Oh,” Dora’s face twisted into a caricature of remorse, “Please don’t think me insensitive, darling, I’m just explaining to you that you have support, right folks? I know!” she gasped, “Let’s have a little bit of audience participation!” Valkyrie went still, “Since we haven’t been able to vote on titles since the big breakup, let’s hold a quick vote now! What do we think?”

The crowd shouted out their approval as Valkyrie shrunk back into her chair slightly.

“Those who think Aphrodite is the victim, give me a cheer in 3.. 2.. 1!” Valkyrie felt herself try to drift away from her body- if any time was the time to perfect astral projection, it was now, “Very good Team Aphrodite, and now for Team Valkyrie, 3… 2… 1!”

Both sides received cheers, though she was too busy trying to mentally escape the situation to truly judge the difference between the groups.

“You see Valkyrie,” she smiled, “Sorry, V, you do have supporters despite your cold, harsh exterior. Why I’m sure there are even some people who still want you to win!” she paused slightly, though there was no response from the audience, “I mean they may not be here tonight, but I’m sure there are people at home who are supporting you, my dear.”

“Thank you,” Valkyrie ground out.

Dora continued unphased, “Though I’m sure they’re all wondering why you’re coming to us all alone today! After all, the people have been pushing for you to partner with your district mate, Lanthan since day one!” when she received nothing more than a nod of acknowledgement she prodded a little harder, “So why don’t you tell us what happened? Why aren’t we talking to you and the dreamy, dangerous Lanthan Shale?”

Valkyrie stiffened, and when she spoke her voice was cold, “Lanthan Shale is a psychopath and a creep.”

Dora gasped dramatically, “Oh, do go on!” and when it appeared that Valkyrie did not intend to go on she followed up with, “Please Valkyrie, I insist.”

“Well,” she answered, “He’s always been weirdly obsessed with me and I think he gets off to the idea of me killing somebody. Well I know he does- he’s told me.”

“… Oh,” Dora’s mouth hung open for a second before her grin turned devious, “So you’ve been the object of his affections for some time, it sounds like. Did anything ever… happen?”

Valkyrie reared back incredulously, “Did you not hear the part where he gets off to murder? Of course nothing ever happened between us.”

“Then what was that kiss back at the start?” Dora smirked.

“A mistake,” Valkyrie answered.

“A villain and a tease,” Dora arched her brow, “Oh how you do make it so easy to hate you Valkyrie. And on that note, we went back to your district to find out about the Valkyrie Maddox before the games.”

Valkyrie frowned, “Who did you ask?”

“Just some friends,” Dora waved off, about to continue when Valkyrie interrupted.

“That’s funny,” Valkyrie raised a brow, “I didn’t know the dead could talk.”

Dora continued as if she hadn’t spoken, turning to the audience, “We asked around the district, and whilst many knew of the young Maddox scion, not many seemed to like her. Valkyrie,” she turned back, “Why is it that you are so disliked amongst the members of your district?”

Valkyrie shrugged, “My family betrayed the Capitol. I grew up in a house of care. I made friends with a no name. District two doesn’t smile kindly on people like me.”

“And yet you still became a Career,” Dora pointed out.

Valkyrie shrugged once more, “I had no intention of entering the games. I have no intention of winning the games. My life was really a waste of time, I suppose. I should have died with my parents that day.”

“And that is all we have time for folks,” Dora gushed with a big smile, “Ladies and gentleman, Valkyrie Maddox of District Two!”

As soon as she was allowed to leave she stood up and left, not saying goodbye, not waving, not smiling, just determined to get the fuck off that stage.

#cgtaskfive

[fortwest]

Fenn/Cordelia Interview

@liahavelock

The two interviews before him slipped by quickly – Fenn was paying little attention to them, truth be told – and he stood almost robotically when prompted by an avox, who led he and Lia to the bottom of the stairs. He shook himself out of it and grinned at his sister. “It’ll be fine. We’ve dealt with worse sirens than Dora Tales.”

Dora leaned forward to the audience. “Between you and me,” her voice seemed to bubble up from her chest, like a burbling stream, “this next couple is one of my favourites.” She winked performatively and giggled, raising goose-bumps on Fenn’s bared chest. “I think we can all agree they’re a couple to watch. Please make them feel welcome. It’s our favourite seaside duo. Cordelia and Fenn!”

Wolf whistles, screams, and raucous applause assaulted Fenn’s ears as he strode confidently up the stairs, his suit attracting gasps and further applause from the audience. He bowed to the audience cheekily and batted his hand their way, as if to say – Oh stop it, you – they loved that. A glint in his eye and a broad grin on his face, he turned to Dora Tales and shook her hand, firmly, whilst bending in to kiss her on both cheeks. As he pulled away, her eyes met his and Fenn returned the searching gaze and superficial smile.

As he and Lia sat on the sofa, Fenn offered his hand to Lia. She looked up at him and took it into her lap. Dora looked admirably upon the two of them, sighed and shook her head with a smile. “I’m sorry to stare, but you two really are beautiful. What do we think of these outfits, ladies and gentlemen?” The audience roared. She leant forward and squeezed Fenn’s leg, who laughed and leant back on the sofa. “Oh I know,” he giggled. “I have genius stylists – I usually wake up looking like a blobfish.” Dora then booped Cordelia’s nose, and Fenn squeezed Cordelia’s hand, praying she wouldn’t bite Dora’s finger off.

As the crowd died down, raptly watching Fenn and Cordelia – already baying for blood, Fenn thought with a sick twist in his stomach – Dora Tales began to work her magic. “Well now. I must admit to being starstruck. You two have both gathered quite the following in the capitol – we really feel as though we’re a part of this little family.” Tales beamed at them.

“We’re happy to welcome you into the Havelock clan,” Fenn opened his arms to the audience and to Dora, chuckling.

Lia concurred. “Yes,” she forced a smile, though Fenn felt it was only because he knew her face so well that he noticed its falseness, “You’ve welcomed us very warmly – and we’ve managed to find a few home comforts here.” Fenn squeezed her hand again – nice one.

“Ah District Four,” Dora sighed. “A humble place but so beautiful, and such a rich culture – so rooted in mythology. Tell us a story from home – it seems you both spent a lot of time playing them out as children,” she added with a wink.

“If you’re referring to the clam shell bras, Dora,” Fenn chuckled, “I’d rather reserve comment.” Fenn held a hand up jokingly, and forced his face to flush redder. “But we can tell you a story if you’d like – I believe Lia knows the best ones.” He indicated his sister and extricated his hand from hers to give her the floor. “I never paid much attention in school,” he whispered and winked at Dora.

Cordelia accepted graciously, her eyes sparkling brighter than her dress. Fenn sank back, grinning at his sister as she spoke. The room was eating from the palm of her hands; the way Fenn commanded attention was loud and charismatic, but when Lia commanded a room it was with a soft power, her voice like the smell of coffee grounds permeating the air, wiring everyone’s brain. Masterful, he thought as she flipped the coin into the air. He was glad to see Tales smiling uneasily. He had never promised her District Four stories were sweet fairy tales.

Dora laughed effervescently as Cordelia caught the coin, and applauded. “What a story!” Dora exclaimed. “The myths of District Four are legend, of course, but I wasn’t prepared for them to be quite so sinister.” The hint of menace in her voice was not lost on Fenn – she didn’t appreciate command of the room being taken from her. Tales was trying to point out to the audience that beneath the golden couple lay something darker.

Fenn smiled and lent forward. “There’s nothing to fear about death,” he spoke gently. “Living by the sea teaches you that we are helpless when presented with it.” He grinned, “I think, though, Dora, that you’d have more to fear from the kids playing pirates back in District Four than the scary stories they tell.” Fenn chuckled, and Dora graciously accepted the shift in direction of the conversation.

“And speaking of your dastardly deeds back at home, Fenn,” Dora laughed airily, “You’ve had quite the young love right here in the capitol. Do tell us about Valentine, Fenn. How did you feel when you saw what he said to Valkyrie? And what,” she grinned, “happened on the train?”

Fenn chuckled, “Oh I never kiss and tell, Dora. Although I’m not sure that applies when you all saw the kisses anyway.” His voice was edged with a warning. Don’t ask me again. He shifted in his seat uncomfortably, and opened his mouth to evade the question – he’d been preparing for this, but Dora clearly saw what he was trying to do and cut in before he could say anything.

“Come now, Fenn. We’re all desperate to know!” She looked round at the audience, and Fenn became conscious of how close she had come whilst talking, her knees mere centimetres from his own. “Aren’t we?” The audience roared, some of them practically frothing at the mouth.

Fenn raised his hands in defeat, and they fell silent at once, waiting for the story. “Well as to what happened on the train – I think it’s fairly clear that we clicked pretty much straight away,” Fenn grinned sadly and held his hands in his lap, looking down at the floor and pursing his lips. He knew how to play an audience. “We sat up and talked for hours most nights – same as when we got here, really.” He looked back up and shook his head. “I remember being so nervous when I saw him in the training centre. ‘What if everything’s changed now we’re here’, I thought. But you know between the dates and the singing and the sleepovers… and the baths,” he added, grinning at the audience. “I sort of settled into it.”

“I guess I felt a bit of an idiot. I can’t have expected him to seriously fall for me in a place like this. I should have trusted myself at the start, I suppose.” He held his hands up as if to signal that there was nothing more that could be done, and looked out into the audience, pleased to see a couple of people dabbing at their eyes. “Lucky I have my sister with me,” he grinned. “You know I always used to go to her as a child, too. She used to spray ‘magic sea water’ on my leg when I’d cut myself, or over my heart when I was feeling upset. No magic water here, of course, but she’s still here for me like no one else can be,” he placed his arm around his sister and squeezed her in towards him.

Dora leant closer and spoke in a false whisper. It was softer than her usual soaring voice, but loud enough to echo around the room. “And is that why you chose your beautiful sister here over Valentine?”

Fenn smiled and looked over at Cordelia. “Well, Dora. I think I always knew I would be with Cordelia in these games.” The audience loved that. “Valentine was fun, but family is the most important thing in the world.”

 Tales moved on from Fenn to Cordelia and asked about Onyx. Fenn used the opportunity to assess the audience more closely – he had heard the story a thousand times from Cordelia, so didn’t need to listen, though he made sure to nod sympathetically from time to time. He was pleased to see that the audience were enamoured. Cordelia’s hot-headedness made them look like serious contenders, but the sharp edges of her fire were softened by Fenn’s charm.

Dora’s laughter soared above them all, and the audience laughed along. It was infectious, though not to Fenn and Cordelia, who smiled politely. “Well we certainly have a charming pair here, don’t we? You’ve been quite the golden boy and girl independently, of course, but to be in here together.” She whistled through her teeth. “Well, I think we can all say we were heartbroken to watch your reaping.” The audience agreed fervently, but Dora ploughed on. “But to actually be in your position, I can’t imagine what that must be like.” She almost choked on her words with emotion, though Fenn noted her eyes were dry. “How did it feel to see your sibling get reaped?” Dora asked the two of them.

Fenn glanced at Cordelia, who was flipping the coin nervously, and nodded almost imperceptibly to Fenn, encouraging him to take the lead. “I don’t think words could do it justice, Dora.” He spoke softly, directing his words out to the audience. “You know – on some level it’s almost a blessing in disguise, to have Lia here with me. A small slice of home goes a long way. But equally, my stomach dropped when I heard Lia’s name get called, and it hasn’t gone back to normal. I’d do anything for my sister here.”

“You know – I just can’t stop thinking about our parents. They’ve been through such tragedy already,” he sighed sadly.

“Tragedy? What’s this?” Dora reached out her hand, which Fenn took – almost comforting her rather than her comforting him. He looked at Cordelia to check this was okay, and she nodded a small nod, looking at the floor.

Fenn began. “Cordelia and I have already lost a sibling. My parents have already lost a child. Cordelia’s twin.”

By the time Fenn had finished telling the story of Atalanta, how they would spend days out on the boat as children, how she had died, and how it had felt going from a trio to a duo, the room was silent. The loudest sound was the breathing of the three people on stage, amplified over their microphones. “Now this is unprecedented,” Dora leant back and brushed at her eyes, again tearless. “Well, my dears, I think we can all say we hope you make it home to your poor parents. They must be sick with grief.”

Fenn shifted, taking this as the end of the interview, but Dora used the hand already on his leg to press down firmly, telling him not to move. He glanced at Cordelia, who looked just as confused as he did.

“Speaking of people back home who must be worried. We contacted some people back in Four, and my they had some lovely things to say about the two of you.” Dora indicated the screen behind her, on which people flashed, saying how sorry they felt for the Havelocks, how Lia and Fenn were good kids, always brightened a room, and how they’d grown from kind and funny children into even kinder, funnier adults. Allium’s face appeared briefly, and Fenn smiled sadly at his voice. He hadn’t forgotten its sound, but it was nice to have his memory refreshed.

When the video reel ended, Fenn exhaled heavily and wiped at his eyes, which had moistened. “Thanks for that, Dora. It was nice to hear from them.” He looked over at Cordelia, who smiled and nodded.

“We miss you all,” Cordelia said into the camera. “We’ll be home soon.”

The audience roared and stood on its feet as Dora bowed to Lia and Fenn and kissed their hands. They waved solemnly at the audience, but with winning smiles, and left the stage.

Fenn embraced Lia shakily the minute they were out of sight, though the cheers of the capitol still wracked his head. He couldn’t find the words to say how he felt, but from the trembling of her breath, she understood.

#cordelia #cgtaskfive #fenn

[alani-heywood]

INT Interview Stage – Evening

DORA TALES stands at the two chairs in the center of the stage, holding out her arm to the wing.

DORA Now from District Seven, let’s all welcome Alani Heywood!

ALANI HEYWOOD walks on stage as the fanfare plays, a stoic expression on her face. She wears a long green dress, which she is visibly uncomfortable in. In fact, it looks as if she is uncomfortable in her own skin at this moment. When she reaches her seat, she sits down without greeting Dora.

DORA

Aren’t you a pretty thing? Your sister was Hazella Heywood, isn’t that right? From the 98th Hunger Games? The two of you share that same lovely hair color.

The screen above the stage shows Hazella’s tribute picture next to Alani’s. Alani shifts uncomfortably.

ALANI Yeah, she was my sister.

DORA If I recall, she made it especially far in the games. Didn’t she? Fifth place?

ALANI (shortly) Fourth place.

DORA Excuse me, fourth place. She did very well. I recall her being very brave. And then for you to be reaped the very next year - how unlucky for you and your family. How does it feel to be reaped so soon after your sister? I simply cannot imagine. 

Alani narrows her eyes, deepening her frown.

ALANI How do you think it feels? What kind of question is that?

Dora taps her fingernails against her leg, raising both eyebrows at Alani.

DORA Everyone feels for you, Alani. Your sister was such a hit last year, after all. Such a darling. Didn’t she go in as half a couple?

ALANI (nodding reluctantly) She did.

Dora clicks her tongue

DORA I simply cannot imagine. And she went into the arena with the Choice Couple title, didn’t she?

Alani doesn’t respond, instead looking down at her fiddling hands.

DORA Cont. (laughing) It sure is a contrast to Underdog. What was your reaction when you first saw that the Capitol pinned you as an underdog?

Alani looks up at Dora.

ALANI I’m not an underdog. No one should think I’m an underdog, because I’m not. How could I be an underdog if I didn’t even do anything? That doesn’t make sense.

DORA You know, people frequently root for the underdog. They’re often very likeable.

ALANI No one should root for me, and I doubt I’m very likeable.

Dora presses her lips together.

DORA Mhmm. You say that no one should root for you – do you not think you’ll fare well in the games?

ALANI (shaking her head) I’m guessing I’ll be in the ground with Hazella soon enough. Is that what you want to hear?

There are murmurs in the crowd. Dora’s gaze on Alani remains steady, a small smile on her lips.

DORA Well, I suppose we’ll see if you’re correct soon enough. Unfortunately, that’s all the time we have. Best wishes to you Alani.

Alani stands before Dora finishes speaking, leaving without further acknowledgement. There are tears in her eyes as she exits. At least she’ll be dead soon.

#cgtaskfive #oh alani

[onyxfeldspar]

Jade/Onyx Interview

@jade-ametrine 

As the first people being interviewed, Onyx had little idea of what to expect from the new interviewer. He had only heard what his mentor and stylists had told the two of them as they were being pruned and perfected for the eyes of the Capitol. It seemed like she was a force to be reckoned with - something that terrified Onyx.

In his head, he was sure they were going to have a kind, sensitive soul like they had grown accustomed to over the past ten years of the games, but after their unexpected death last year, it seemed the Capitol had made some very different arrangements.

But he had Jade with him, and as long as they stuck to the plan, the two of them would be just fine. That’s what he tried to think as the two of them were marched over to the side of the stage.

The next part was a little bit of a blur for Onyx. All too quickly their names were being called out and they were parading themselves across the stage. Greetings were exchanged, and Onyx felt Dora’s warm, wet kiss against his cheek, but nothing else seemed to stick. He felt Jade’s arm, gently guiding him on to the sofa, and forced himself to pay more attention. He couldn’t afford to miss anything here.

“Now,” Dora said, clapping her hands together and fixing her eyes on Jade, “first things first - Jade, the one to watch - how does it feel to have secured that title two times over?” She leaned a little closer in anticipation.

“It feels correct.” Jade laughed, beaming out at the audience members that laughed along with her. “I mean, they can’t exactly put me right on the pedestal straight away but I really do love you all for voting that I’m the one you’ve all got your eye on!” Her wink to the camera’s was solely for those not in the live studio audience, Jade knew if she played effervescent and bubbly that The Capitol would see a side of her that wasn’t all about the training or the scores, she had to be likeable as well as skilled. 

Dora gave a small gasp and waved her hand in the air, all but brushing off Jade’s answer entirely as she turned to Onyx and gripped his leg, giving it a squeeze. Onyx started, trying to maintain some sense of composure as the woman rounded on him.

“Does it bother you, being in Jade’s shadow throughout this whole process?”

Onyx frowned, looking from Jade to Dora and then back to Jade. Why would it bother him? He shook his head and cleared his throat, trying to keep his voice calm and even.

“Not at all. It’s hard to ignore how good Jade is at what she does, and I’m not about to complain about it either.”

Dora nodded her head sagely, letting go of Onyx’s leg and moving back in her chair.

“Yes, yes. “We’ve all been wondering what the exact nature of your relationship is.” She waved her hand around to reference the audience. “Is it merely platonic… or perhaps something more?”

Dora raised an eyebrow, her smile growing as the crowd began to cheer.

“We’re, uh…” Onyx gave Jade a sheepish smile. Their relationship had changed in immeasurable ways in the short time they had spent in the Capitol, with some of that blame falling on the Capitol’s shoulders - but Onyx knew they were referring to the almost kiss. His almost kiss. “We’ve known each other since we were kids. No one knows me better than she does.”

Onyx used this moment to take Jade’s hand in his, feeling rather like a schoolboy who was experiencing his first crush under the blinding spotlight of the Capitol.

“It seems stupid that I haven’t kissed her before now.”

Jade held Onyx’s hand tightly in hers, that feeling of anxiety that they could be separated rising in her again as she gripped his hand softly enough that it didn’t hurt but hard enough that he would feel it. If he was going to make a move she knew that now was the time he had to do it. With a practiced movement she rested her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes letting the Capitol’s anticipation build. Raising her head to look directly at the boy she’d known for so long, she felt her face beaming with adoration for him. Now she thought to herself. He has to do it now. 

Onyx hated this. He would have preferred to do it anywhere except here. But they had little choice in the matter. Their ability to survive the games depended upon this moment, so he reached towards her, tracing the edge of her jaw before cupping her cheek with his hand. My Jade, he thought as he looked into her eyes, and all of a sudden the pressure from the Capitol melted away. Their lips brushed, softly at first, as though he was asking for permission, and then any pretence of control he had was gone as he kissed her again, and again, and again.

It was only at the sound of Dara clearing her throat that he moved away, wrapping an arm around Jade and choosing to pull her closer to him instead. He tried to focus on Dora, but all he could think about was Jade’s lips on his and how badly he wanted to kiss her again.

It was clear to Jade that Onyx was playing this moment for all that it was worth, but she couldn’t decide whether it was for The Capitol or for himself, she felt her cheeks flush with nervousness and excitement, her first real kiss, in front of all of these people. She wasn’t mad at the idea, but she didn’t want to give the Capitol enough time to notice that this was something completely new to her, she broke away and grinned into Onyx’s face, drinking in his happiness and letting it wash over her too. 

“Oh!” Dora exclaimed, fanning herself vigorously with her hand. “I do believe we have a Capitol Exclusive!” She played up to the audience, joining in with their cooing and ahhing and pretending to blush.

Meanwhile, Onyx and Jade only had eyes for each other. Onyx couldn’t keep his goofy smile off his face as he looked at her, the noise of the audience becoming a mere murmur as his head spun at a mile a minute. He hadn’t always wanted to kiss her. There was a time where they were just friends. In fact, it was only in the run up to the Capitol that he had started to realise just how lost he really was without Jade. He couldn’t help but wonder if this would have happened if they hadn’t ended up in the Games.

“I’m getting all hot under my collar just looking at the pair of you.” Dora declared, pulling their gaze back to her as she continued on with the show. “I could sit here all day gushing about the pair of you, but alas, we have one more question before our time together is over.”

She paused for a moment, waiting for the crowd to settle down.

“Your training scores were very surprising to us. Getting a twelve must mean you did something right!” She gave a shrill laugh before turning her gaze to Onyx again, her face suddenly full of concern. “How did you feel when you saw your training scores?”

Jade knew that the question was coming but refused to balk at it, instead steeling herself with another smile and letting Onyx reply first, it was important to her that this was his moment to shine. 

“You know,” he said, glancing over at Jade, “I think I went into that evaluation a little distracted. I mean, can you blame me?” His hand rested itself on Jade’s thigh as he laughed along with the audience, the movement feeling surprisingly natural to him.

“It was definitely a wake-up call.” He continued as the laughter died down. “Jade alone is a force to be reckoned with, of course, but I need to keep my focus if I want to make sure I can be there for her. That’s the most important thing for me.”

I was all that Jade could do to laugh in the right places along with the audience and respond with humility at Onyx fawning over her. What she wanted to do was tell everyone just how much Onyx could do and how dangerous he could be in a fight, but he was right, he could get distracted and it appeared that The Capitol were trying their best to distract the pair of them. Jade felt a sudden pang of panic in her chest as she realised what The Capitol had done to others before Onyx that she’d held dear. Her Mother, Her Father. Jade pushed through the doubt to answer calmly. 

“I think that we're both caught up in each other. He gets so distracted.” Jade laughed and turned once again to the camera, “You know how it is, but I think that it focussed us both into realising that as long as we’re together we’ll win this and get to the other side, and back home.” Jade’s attention turned back to Onyx and she drank him in again. “I couldn’t do it without him.” 

Dora sighed, she’d fallen for their plan hook line and sinker, they were star crossed lovers that had loved each other for all this time. They would be going into this together and nothing would tear them apart, not even the arena, not even The Capitol. The host held her hands to her chest and let out another sigh, only to be snapped from her revelry by a loud buzzer that made everyone jump including the tributes, audience and host. 

“Oh--” Dora said, looking over towards one of the cameras. “Is that our time? Such a shame.” She ushered the two of them to their feet, her picture-perfect smile plastered on her face as she wrapped her bony arms around them.

“It’s been an absolute pleasure to meet the two of you.” She gripped Jade’s arm, giving her a pointed stare. “And hopefully you’ll be following in your father’s footsteps any day now, hm?” 

“You wish.” Jade hissed back, ripping her arm from Dora’s grasp. “You’re first on my list if I get out, watch your back Tales.” 

Dora let out a little tinkle of a laugh and then turned to face the audience once more, the altercation all but invisible to the audience watching at home. 

“Ladies and Gentlemen, please give it up for District One’s finest: Jade Ametrine and Onyx Feldspar!”

“I swear.” Jade growled as soon as they were out of view of the cameras. “We’re winning this, I’m coming back and I’m going to kick that bitch from here to kingdom come.” 

As they began to make their way off the stage, clips began playing behind them of people they knew back home. Friends and family, the people they had trained with and danced with - even the local club owner had been taken in to be interviewed, all of them wishing Jade and Onyx the best of luck as they took their leave, the sounds of their friends well-wishes reverberating around them as their interview came to a close.

#jade #interview #cgtaskfive

[rowantorwyn]

🌲 Task 005: Rowan Torwyn’s “Interview” 🌲

Lavenne Hardgrove, Rowan Torwyn’s mentor, had tried her best to emphasize how important this interview was supposed to be. Although this was just her first year at the helm, the Capitol reporter Dora Tales was as deadly as she was charming. “Words are like arrows,” she had told him. Something about not being able to take them back once loosed. Unfortunately, Rowan was, well, distracted throughout that conversation.

Following Alani Heywood’s own interview, Rowan simply sat there, feeling his chair, comfortably grinning and smiling at everyone else, including Miss Tales, blissfully unaware at the true dangers that lurked around him. “Sup?”

"Hello, Rowan Torwyn of District Seven. You have been quite an interesting personality, as far as everyone have seen, and I am assuming that you are who we've seen you to be, shirt and all?" 

Despite her smile and affable personality, Dora was not amused when Rowan simply waltzed out of there right after Alani was done, denying her of a more appropriate introduction as befitting her skills. Still, she eyed him from head to toe, somewhat disappointed that he had his shirt on. The crowd laughed at that barb, though as per usual, Rowan was oblivious to it.

"Yeah, yeah, uhm, everyone was wearing a shirt, so, I, uhh, put one on."

"You mean you were shirtless just...minutes ago?" Dora raised an eyebrow even before she knew she had. When Rowan nodded, goofy grin still on his face, she let out a laugh and the rest of the crowd followed suit. "Well, if you want, feel free to take that shirt off. You don't strike us as someone who'd be interested in fashion."

"Oh, okay." Rowan took off his shirt, much to everyone's laughter and subsequent silence, eyes narrowed upon his magnificent physique. Even Dora couldn't help but spend a few minutes just staring him down, biting her lower lip. 

Leaning closer to him, she asked her first question, making sure to make her segue feel natural. She didn't really need to, as Rowan wasn't as cunning as the other tributes. "We're all curious, Rowan, dear, what inspires you to be so shirtless so regularly? I mean, we’re not complaining, but we’d just like to know."

Rowan simply shrugged. "I mean, I guess I'm not just used to the Capitol's shirts?"

The crowd laughed and Dora chuckled to herself while Rowan remained grinning. It wasn't a joke. At least he didn't intend it to be one. But he just seemed so stupid and oblivious that everyone else thought it was somewhat entertaining. Wack.

"Of course, of course. District Seven has always been more focused on lumber, chopping...wood, than fashion, so the Capitol's level of comfort and aesthetics, culture, would otherwise be new to...someone like you." Dora sneered, only for Rowan to genuinely agree with. Wow.

This boy, his head, is so easy to steer. She didn't even feel like she needed to make any effort to keep this interview entertaining. He was a walking curiosity if not hilarity. Anything that came out of his mouth was so simple, she could easily ply his words to suit her needs, and he'd just sit there, taking it all, like a complete idiot, allowing her to do whatever she wanted with him. She wondered, what else could she ply of his?

"You and Aphrodite... We've seen you two develop a sort of bond. Did it hurt when Aphrodite was paired with someone else? Did you cry, bury your face in your many discarded shirts?" He was probably too stupid to cry, Dora thought, but the crowd laughed at that last bit, and she knew this was going to be this interview’s direction from here on out.

"Oh, yeah, well, you know..." Rowan didn't, but he tried to just let his brain do all the work for once, something that it hasn't done for a while now. The words just slithered out of his mouth without any review or filter whatsoever, a stream of consciousness, utterly irresponsible blabbering. "I mean, Aphrodite is hot! She's fun. I like spending time with her, but, you know, she probably didn't feel the same or something. I mean, I thought she would but what do I know, right?"

Rowan chuckled, Dora sneered, and the crowd laughed. 

"Yes, of course, what do YOU know, right?" Dora pandered to the crowd and got an even bigger laugh. Rowan just sat there, a little confused but shrugged it off as strange Capitol humor, laughing with them. "Tell us about your family back in District Seven, Rowan. What are they like? Are they also always shirtless, just as confused as you are?"

Dora poked Rowan’s nose, which he thought was odd. He frowned at that but also laughed because it was the first thing that came to his head. It was awkward but the crowd or Dora didn’t really care about him. All they cared about was the version of him they wanted to see, laugh at. Rowan wasn’t aware of any of that, though. He was just being himself.

“Oh, uhh, they’re...okay, I guess.”

Silence followed. Rowan just sat there, dwelling in his thoughts, while Dora frowned, now a little confused. Her eyes darted from Rowan to the crowd, unsure of what to make of the momentary respite.

“Okay, you guess?”

“Yeah... I mean, my parents are nice, hardworking folks... My sister’s just as...hardworking.” His brain froze, his emotions overtaking his words. He was missing them so much, but he knew he wouldn’t be able to go back home anymore. He was most likely going to die soon, and he was okay with that, but he couldn’t stop missing his family. They were all he had. 

“Uhm, so, they also don’t like to wear shirts?”

Dora’s voice snapped him out of his reverie, but the words that crawled out of his mouth were the first thought that came to his mind, still unfiltered, even though he should have desperately needed them to be. “Oh, uhm, no, they wear shirts. I mean, not like Capitol shirts but like District Seven shirts...”

“Uh-huh.” Dora nodded, trying to keep her laughter in. The crowd, however, were less polite, roaring in laughter at Rowan’s perceived stupidity and simple-mindedness. “You heard it here first, folks: People from District Seven wear shirts from District Seven. What an enlightening revelation from the smartest of our tributes, Rowan Torwyn!”

The crowd continued to laugh, some even applauding Rowan for no other reason than being entertaining for them. Rowan actually joined them in clapping, even though he had no idea why they were doing that in the first place. Wack.

"Hmm, well, in any case, that’s the end of the interview, folks. We actually spoke to some of Rowan’s old friends from District Seven about him, but they were all so generally positive about him that I...fell...asleep.” Dora tilted her head at Rowan, pretending to sympathize about his district being boring, much to the crowd’s amusement and Rowan’s confusion. 

As the laughter slowly died down, Rowan continued to sit on his chair, looking around him. Dora frowned at this, uncertain if he was playing the part of a fool or if he was just that stupid. A part of her thought it was somewhat interesting, though, if only curious, and her eyes spent a few more seconds ogling his bare chest before she shooed him away. “Uhm, Rowan, dear?”

“Yeah?”

“That was your cue to leave. Our interview is over. Someone else needs to sit on that chair.”

“Oh, uhh, yeah, sorry about that...” Rowan slowly pushed himself off the chair, as the crowd laughed as loud as they could once again. 

Dora, however, used the opportunity to put a hand on his own, pressing it lightly, and whispering to him, using the crowd’s loud laughter as cover. “You can sit on something else much later.”

Rowan grimaced at the idea, mostly because he had no idea what she meant, while she simply winked at him and started to introduce the next person. Wack.

#cgtaskfive #(rowan's an idiot surprise surprise) #(asdasd im so sorry life has been so hectic)

[savannahawthorne]

TASK 005 - THE INTERVIEW

@fennhavelock​

Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.

They should carve that about the entrance to the passway that led to the stage rather than some epitaph to a deceased President. Surely her slogan would be much more appropriate for the future that awaited all that graced the stage in the Capitol.

Lia rolled her eyes and shifted her weight knowing soon it would be their time to face the grilling lights of the Capitol. Her mentor, Julius, had told her to be light and happy (like he imagined the shores of Four), but her joy had been slowly siphoned away in this place. Living in the Capitol was like living with a parasite…

Yet, Lia had smiled and played along with the mentors and even Fenn to an extent. Her dress scintillated softly in the lights, not unlike polished sea glass that they could never afford, and it would incite envy in the hearts of every Capitol teenager without a doubt. Smile and let Fenn do the talking had been her instructions and she had smiled and agreed. Good puppets smiled and agreed and that’s all Lia was, a puppet and the Capitol was the puppeteer.

“She’s not a siren, she’s Medusa.” Lia pointed out Fenn's comment. There was nothing alluring or mystical about Dora Tales. No, the loose lipped interrogator would turn them all to stone if it meant increased ratings for her interviews.

Quietly, Lia sat on the couch smiling when she was supposed to and looking like a well groomed Capitol doll. Thankfully, Fenn was much more charismatic than she was and had the sponsors eating out of his hand. He was a natural. If she thought about the fact how she would soon be dependent on their money, Lia would vomit, but she chose instead to just smile and nod as needed. The Career Districts had nothing on them.

At the mention of a story, Lia smiled slowly at Dora. Oh, she knew the perfect story for the lady. Etiquette ahad dictated she could not break the finger that had dared to touch her nose, but Lia was more than a capable adversary when it came to a game of wits.

Dora deserved this.

“We do have one story in District Four,” she started smoothly in a honey-sweet that matched Dora’s own. “Have you ever heard of Charon?” Lia asked as she smiled happily at the host hoping that most people in the Capitol had not heard of the famed Ferryman.

She gave pause to give the audience a moment to catch up and waited with baited breath. “Charon is a mythical man, not unlike many here in the Capitol…” Lia started. “Tall, unkempt and lugging his burden, a boat oar. You see, it is his job to man his ship and he’s a proud captain. Never has he failed to accomplish his task.”

“Be wary of eyes that burn like coals in the fire…”

Lia stopped again as she pondered how to phrase her next part of the tale. “Eyes like fire that will burn in the darkness as you cross the River Styx into the unknown abyss. But beware, for the ferryman demands a toll.” Was it too much, maybe, but Lia was committed now. “It’s why we bury our dead with silver coins,” not unlike the one Lia had shoved into her sister’s cold hands. “Not unlike,” she reached up and seemingly pulled a silver coin out of her mouth; a slight of hand, but the Capitol people would never know. Her secret was safe with Fenn. “The fee for a safe passage into the next life.”

In a smooth motion, Lia tossed the coin up in the air as if to toss it to Dora, but at the last moment she snatched it out of the air. “I think I better keep this, don’t you?” She asked Dora with a sly smile. The Capitol wanted to focus on the happy, the drama, and the festivities of the Hunger Games. It was about time someone shoved it in their faces the reality of the Games. Reminded them in a few days they would have twenty-three or twenty-two dead tributes.

Smiling, Lia leaned back into her chair and let Fenn pick up the questions. She liked to think she unsettled Dora by the way she quickly moved onto Fenn and his love affair with Valentine. All the tributes were nervous and unsettled, it was only fair to pass the feelings onto the rest of them if she could. Surely the Capitol would be captivated by a story that did not strike as close to home as it did for the tributes.

It wasn’t until Dora asked about Onyx that Lia’s attention came back to Dora. Of course she wanted to know about their little rendez-vous in the Capitol. “Well,” Lia said slowly, hoping Fenn could pass her a little of his charm magically. Coming from his mouth the lines seemed natural and charming, whereas she was awkward and candid. “What is there to say that you don’t already know?” The Capitol reporters had followed them the entire time. “We just wanted to have some fun, unwind a bit…” Which was not entirely false if she was being honest. “Sometimes you just need a little fun to recharge the batteries before you buckle down and get to work. So, don’t worry, I’ll be well prepared for the Games.” Lia cooed softly.

According to the plan, Lia let Fenn speak and answer the questions that were asked of them. It was safer that way and to be honest, Lia did not know what to say to the questions. It wasn’t like talking to Fenn who knew her thoughts, who understood them and where she was coming from. Instead she just smiled and flipped the coin in her hand to release nervous energy.

Only, her breath caught in her throat as Fenn mentioned their sister. No, no. They were not going there because she did not want to go there. The Capitol got to decide her fate, decide she was going to live a short life, got to force her into doing things she did not want to do, they were forcing her into the arena, and taking her future. The Capitol did not get to have her sister too. Atalanta was something they did not get to have too and if she had her way, they wouldn’t even know she existed. It did not matter if it was the single thing that could give them the edge in the arena.

When Dora asked about her sister and what it was like to have a twin, Lia shook her head and crossed her arms. She would not give her the satisfaction of answering her questions. Not that any words she said could fully explain it to someone who did not live it. You could not know what it was like to be born one of two. What it was like to look at someone and have it like looking in the mirror.

“She’s my sister,” Lia told her eventually after Dora pressed. Thankfully, they were smart enough to move on when Fenn had said what he needed and that Lia was not going to add to it.

Thankfully, soon after that, the interview was over and all that was left was to smile and follow Fenn off the stage. Lia hoped this wasn’t a sign of what was to come when the Arena came tomorrow. 

If she was not so stubborn, she would abandon all hope, but she couldn’t do that for her brother’s sake.

#lia #cgtask #cgtaskfive

[capitolgames]

TASK 005: The Interviews

Tributes! The time has come for our fifth task. While this task is not mandatory, doing it may increase your likelihood of gaining sponsors and coming out on top in the arena, as well as giving you an opportunity to change the Capitol’s perception of your character and set the tone for your time in the arena.

This will be your last chance before the final Capitol recap to plead your case to the people watching at home and either solidify your reputation in the Capitol’s eyes or try to change it. The couples will be interviewed first, followed by each individual in District Order. In the next few minutes, you’ll recieve a message from us with more details about your personal interview.

The person interviewing you is the infamous DORA TALES, who is known for uncovering salacious gossip and getting under people’s skin to wheedle only the best, most entertaining answers out of them. Everything you say will be picked apart and dissected, and it is imperative that you stay true to this description of her.

Each interview will last for ten minutes. Those who aren’t currently being interviewed will be able to watch the other interviews live. If you are in a couple, you have the opportunity to discuss your strategy for the interview away from the Capitol’s eyes. Those who are doing couple interviews will have to work with their fellow roleplayer to create their piece, and both parties can post their perspectives separately if they so choose. This has to be completed by no later than JULY 8TH.

You can write as much or as little as you like, and the only requirement is that you write it before JULY 8TH. Please tag your completed posts with cgtaskfive so we can find them quickly and easily. We will be reblogging them to the mian blog under the tag interview. Your time in the Capitol is short. Be sure to have any conversations you need to have with your fellow tributes sooner rather than later if you wish to air things out before you enter the arena.

Happy Hunger Games! And may you find your happily ever after!

Below, you’ll find the running order for the interviews.

1. JADE AND ONYX 2. ARA AND CALIX 3. LIA AND FENN 4. APHRODITE AND COSIMA 5. BEVERLY AND ATTICUS 6. ROSALIND AND ARTEMIS 7. DAPHNE AND TAI 8. VALKYRIE MADDOX 9. LANTHAN SHALE 10. ZEUS KARRAX 11. ALANI HEYWOOD 12. ROWAN TORWYN 13. JAE GODET 14. THERA SERILDA 15. ASH CORMAC 16. ASTRID PORTER 17. VALENTINE DONAHUE

#thg rp #hunger games rp #hg rp #the hunger games roleplay #the hunger games #cg99

[fortwest]

Fenn/Cordelia Pre-Interview

@liahavelock​

Fenn smoothed down the fabric of his trousers, watching the fabric shift in the light of the arc lamps around the plush room. Nova had dressed him in a sleek and elegant blazer, tightly fit to his body and without a shirt beneath, and a pair of tight trousers cropped just before the ankle. Simple, but Nova wanted Fenn’s personality and smile to be what they remembered. He had no makeup, and just some salt spray in his hair to mimic the texture that used to make it so hard for his mother to brush. The fabric of his outfit, though, was beautiful. Light and shifty, it was black at first glance, but as Fenn moved, lines appeared in it to mimic water rippling, like a painting of the ocean, moving with him. He grinned as he swayed his legs side to side, watching the ripples on the fabric appear and dissipate. He could hear people shuffling around in the auditorium as the audience started to file in. 

He felt someone walk up behind him and turned. Cordelia looked beautiful, though that was no surprise. She proffered her hand. “Come on – there’s a room to the side where we can discuss what we’re going to do.”

Fenn smiled as he stood and followed her. “We scrub up nice,” he chuckled.

The side-room had a view over the audience slowly filing in, though as Fenn pressed himself up against the window and no one responded, he presumed it was a one-way mirror.

He turned to his sister. “Okay – what are we gonna do? Tales can be brutal.”

Fenn looked at his sister, and again noted the fire in her eyes that was one of the reasons he loved her so much. He wasn’t, though, sure that the capitol would appreciate it. Lia’s tongue could be sharp and witty, and Fenn had no doubt where she would tell Dora Tales to put her questions if she was allowed to speak freely. “Let’s play to our strengths. We need your passion or they’ll think we don’t stand a chance. But let me take the lead. I’ve got this – you know I do well in the limelight.”

Fenn looked out over the crowd below them – it was full and loud, the room crammed with capitol citizens, shallow and frivolous. He felt uneasy. There was a knock at the door and Nova opened it. “Come on – Jade and Onyx are about to go on.” Fenn turned to Lia and took her hand, leading her from the door. He squeezed her hand.

“Trust me?” Fenn whispered as the sound of Dora Tale’s effervescent voice greeting the audience echoed through the corridors. Cordelia nodded a small, quiet nod. She was not looking forward to this. But then, neither was he. He sat down and joined his fellow tributes in gluing his eyes to the screen that showed the interviews. He could feel bile rising in his throat, but swallowed it back. He could not appear nervous.

#cordelia #cgtaskfive #fenn