Zodiac Pandemonium: The 500th Hunger Games

'''Warning for anyone who finds this: May contain mature themes and content. Will definitely contain strong language.'''

Disclaimer: This is a FANFICTION and is therefore not canon material.



"The darkest, grittiest games in Panem's history."

Also known as the 20th Quarter Quell

Rules and Information (to remember)

 * In this universe, The Capitol and District 13 participate in the Games.
 * Two of the fan-made districts of the Hunger Games Roleplaying Wiki, District 0 and District 14, also participate. District 0's industry is astrology and District 14's industry is focused on muttations.
 * This is a fanfiction.
 * There are 64 tributes in total.
 * If you don't like heavy amounts of storylines, I suggest you don't read this as this fanfiction is full of them.
 * As mentioned in the beginning, there may be mature themes and content featured. For the POVs where such themes and content are included, a disclaimer will be added beforehand.
 * There will be strong language, so I will definitely note this in the disclaimer.
 * If you have found this, I hope you enjoy my writing!

Tributes
Total: 64 (32 males, 32 females)

At the beginning of the Games
Leaders are in italic.
 * Careers: Caulan (1), Terrell (1), Meadow (1), Essi (2), Irvine (2), Diara (2), Haldin (2), Aristotle (3), Ula (4), Barric (9), Okapi (10), Ashara (12), Wren (14)
 * Anti-Careers (truce with District 6 and 13 Alliance): Triton (4), Gar (4), Cecily (5), Light (5), Emina (6), Xaveria (6), Naome (7), Iden (7), Demetrius (8), Huon (8), Talasi (9), Isarone (11), Durion (12)
 * Capitol Siblings Alliance: Alexandria (C), Alexander (C)
 * District 0 Alliance: Blanche (0), Jupiter (0)
 * Youth Alliance: Rael (0), Florentine (3), Paris (5), Yamini (14), Zarko (14)
 * Pyromaniac Alliance: Vista (3), Kero (14)
 * Criminals Alliance: Quentin (6), Tunisia (10), Reiner (10)
 * District 6 and 13 Alliance (truce with Anti-Careers): Asher (6), Berkeley (13), Pluto (13), Morana (13), Stark (13)
 * District 7, 8 and 9 Alliance (truce with Careers): Keres (7), Eritrea (8), Lysier (9)
 * District 11 Alliance: Allegra (11), Laine (11)
 * District 10 and 11 Alliance: Levi (10), Parlan (11)
 * The Neutral Alliance: Scoria (12), Joren (12)
 * Loners: Marietta (C), Nathair (C), Valentina (0), Raynia (1), Jeremiah (3), Oceani (4), Sorell (5), Cedar (7), Fiala (8), Grania (9)

Arena
Will be revealed after the Interviews.

Arena Outfits
Will be revealed after the Interviews.

Alexandria Skyvale (The Capitol)
Disclaimer: Mentions of alcohol consumption

Part 1
Our 18th birthday and the day of the reaping were both on the same day.

Luckily, Mother planned celebrations for Alexander and I the week before. She hosted said celebrations yesterday, because of the uncertainty of today. For all I know, either one of us or both of us could end up being picked as a tribute. It would be a serious case of bad luck for this to happen, since it is our final reaping.

Yesterday's celebrations lasted deep into the night, if I recall. Thankfully, the alcohol I consumed only left me with a minor headache. I never achieved a level of complete intoxication.

I do not know if the same can be said for Alexander.

I woke up early; 6:00am according to the golden clock hanging above my television. I was greeted by the minor headache and...

"Mistress Alexandria, may I come in?"

The sweet-as-sugar voice of the family maid, Moiselle.

"Of course."

With my permission, she opened the door. Despite it being only six hours into the day, she looked as if she was fully awake and alert. Her purple dress and apron were neat to an extent, so she must have already started with her tasks. She had also delicately braided her raven-coloured hair and I assume that she even found time to search for the headband that matched her purple attire.

"I assume that you have come to tell me that my reaping outfit is ready?" I ask, finding enough composure to get out of bed. Doing so invoked the development of my headache into a major one.

"Indeed, but I would advise taking a shower first. In addition, I would personally like to wish you a happy birthday. Your mother informed me that both yourself and Mister Alexander's birthday is officially today."

I address the acknowledgement of today being my birthday with a simple "thank you". In regards to the rest of the notice, I nod, increasing the pain of the headache more. This sudden increase prompts me to put a hand to my forehead.

"Mistress Alexandria, do you have a headache? I could always draw you a soothing bath instead."

"Yes, I have a headache. A bath will not be necessary, I am fine with just a shower."

This headache seemed to pique Moiselle's curiosity.

"Before I prepare the shower, may I ask something?"

"Go ahead."

"Is this headache a result from last night?"

Knowing that nodding without pain was not an option, I decide to be truthful and honest.

"If it is of any significance to you, Mister Alexander is not faring as well as you are. He has been unable to get out of bed. I had to drag him and make him splash his face in water in order to wake him up."

This makes us both laugh a little. Images of Alexander's annoyance appear in my mind.

"Is there any chance of him being at least okay?"

"He is not intoxicated anymore, but he is disorientated since I had him take some medicine. The medicine is safe, but some people will experience side effects and disorientation is just one of them. May I ask that you keep a close eye on him?"

I nod.

"Of course, just as long as you give me some of that medicine for this headache. Side effects are of no concern to me."

"As it is your birthday, you can have whatever you like."

The shower was relaxing. Moiselle had prepared all the lotions for me, so I smelled like the fruits of District 11.

When I changed into my reaping outfit, a short, collared white dress with a golden trim and a heart-shaped cutout; followed by golden boots, I looked for the nearest mirror - so that I could put my hair up.

"Here is the medicine you asked for."

Moiselle returned, carrying pink pills in one hand and clasping a glass of water in the other. I took both from her.

"There is no need to worry about the taste, it is strawberry flavoured." She assured me, as I must have made an obvious expression of worry. Her assurance confirmed that there would be no vile taste in my mouth, so I used the water to swallow the pills.

She was correct, because all I could taste was a strawberry extract.

"You mentioned Alexander's disorientation. What are the other side effects?"

"The list is quite extensive, and it would take me some time to explain them all - but another example is slight fatigue, which is common. Of course, I am no doctor so I could be completely false but I am familiar with the medicine. I know that the effects that can be experienced depend on the person; and consumption of alcohol levels is one way in which this can be determined. Because Alexander is experiencing side effects, you will experience side effects also Mistress Alexandria. However, you are most likely to experience smaller side effects because you did not have as much alcohol as your brother."

"Once again, Moiselle, thank you."

Moiselle's response was a friendly smile, a smile she adorned even as Alexander, who would probably be frustrated with her at this moment, made his appearance.

I realised that whoever had planned our outfits wanted us to be matching, as Alexander's attire was the male version of my own attire. His outfit was a white shirt and pants decorated by golden chains.

"Hello again, Mister Alexander."

"Oh hello She-Who-Submerged-Me-In-Water-And-Gave-Me-Pills-That-Are-Making-Me-Feel-Strange." Alexander responded sarcastically. He looked like he was trying to maintain a normal composure.

"You have Alexandria to watch over you during the reaping. She will make sure that nothing bad happens to you."

I smirked. "That is correct. You can always hold onto my arm for support."

Alexander's glare towards me was fiery.

"You had better not be enjoying my misfortune."

"Brother, I am not. I am just happy that I can handle alcohol better than you."

"Ha ha, boast all you want."

Time seemed to accelerate, as it was around two hours until the start of the reaping. My headache was no more, thankfully.

Alexander, on the other hand...

I suspect that he could end up doing either something completely stupid or fainting, both of which would be disastrous to do at the reaping, especially if we are trying to get through the final reaping of our lives without being reaped.

Moiselle told us to come downstairs once we were finished getting ready, as Mother wanted to speak with us and give us something. Our birthday presents I presume.

I was correct. Mother greeted us once we descended the stairs. She was adorned in rose-red and her choice of jewel for today was ruby. She had placed her hair up so that her ruby earrings could be visible.

In her hands were two small, golden boxes.

"My darlings! You both look like little angels!" Mother's cheers were enthusiastic. To Alexander, the volume of Mother's voice was on par with the sound of Peacekeeper sirens.

"Mother, not so loud!"

"Mistress Skyvale, I have given Alexander and Alexandria the medicine. Alexandria seems to be fine, but I am worried about Alexander."

Moiselle's concern was visible on her face.

"It is okay, Moiselle. Alexander will be fine. We just need to get through this reaping and then our lives will resume as normal, plus we will not have to worry about the Hunger Games anymore. Speaking of the reaping, Alexander, Alexandria, I need you to listen to me."

My attention had been on the boxes in her hand.

"You two should know that the Skyvales are neutral in terms of our way of thinking. The Games are neither a good or a bad thing to us, it is just a matter of strategic survival. This year, it is the 20th Quarter Quell so anything can happen. I want you guys to stick together and focus on survival."

We tried our best to take Mother's words into account. I am sure that to Alexander, everything was a fast motion of events.

"We promise."

What was in my box was a real pearl hairpin embedded within the middle of a pair of wings, which were made of gold. Alexander's gift turned out to be a golden chain with the same pearl and wings attached.

The pearl is the traditional gem of the Skyvale family.

"I considered it to be a fitting birthday gift for you both. If you are reaped, I want this to be your token. It is representative of both family and heritage."

Alexander and I had said our goodbyes to Moiselle and Mother. We were now sitting in the car, heading for the reaping. Normally, Capitol reapings are held in the Presidential Mansion; but this year, it was to be held in a different location.

I positioned my hairpin so that it did not tangle with my hair. From the corner of my eye, Alexander was looking out of the window.

Moiselle did say that the list of side effects was extensive. I wonder if being alert, like as if I had consumed several cups of coffee, is another example.

Because I feel very alert.

"So, like, didn't they have a Games for just Capitol children?" Alexander asked.

"Yes, it took place in 276ADD. However, prior to it finally taking place, it was an idea that struggled to come into fruition."

Alexander burst out laughing.

"Fruition is a funny word."

Alexander's laughter summoned two realisations, two realisations that hit me instantly. Firstly, mood swings is undoubtedly another side effect and Alexander's second side effect. Considering that he was in a foul mood earlier, he has seemed to change his mood entirely - laughing and even speaking informally. Secondly, the medicine seemed to have worked well for me, but the same cannot be said for Alexander - therefore proving what Moiselle said about how the medicine causes individuals to have different experiences. So if the medicine is acting differently for Alexander, then my suspicions about Alexander potentially doing something stupid during the reaping could come true.

Oh dear.

It is like as if he was still intoxicated.

"You know, sis, I wish you'd loosen up a little. Speak like a normal 18 year old."

"We are the children of a wealthy socialite. We have been socialised to speak formally."

"No, that's a load of bull. Mother doesn't give a damn how we speak or act. Firstly, she hosted an alcohol-inclusive party for us because she knew that we would have to go through the reaping today. Secondly, like you just said, she's a socialite. She gets to try so much alcohol. If she gets extremely intoxicated, her behaviour would be in a whole other world from formal. It's you who decided to speak and act so formally. What I'm saying is just mellow out for once and be my twin sister, not my teacher."

Alexander concluded his words with more laughter...

...and myself with a pale face.

Part 2
We eventually arrived at our destination; a stadium-like building. The increasing numbers of citizens and Peacekeepers outside the entrance and the choice of Capitol banners to decorate the building confirmed that this was where the reaping was to take place.

As Mother mentioned, this year was the twentieth Quarter Quell. Since any twists could take place, regardless of what the current stage of the whole process of the Games was, I hoped that we would not be separated. Moiselle tasked me with taking care of Alexander.

I cannot let her down.

Alexander and I ascended the stairs, reaching the entrance of the stadium. Awaiting us were more Peacekeepers, each supplied with a gun. Two of them were supplied with what appeared to be a scanner.

"Get in line!" One bellowed.

Everyone was shoved into two separate lines, for the two Peacekeepers with scanners. Alexander was shoved into the opposite line.

I watched as the person who was at the front of my line; a young girl who I presumed was at least 12, approached the Peacekeeper in charge of the line. Because I could only see her from the back, what I was able to make out of her appearance was her long pink hair, a white jacket, a blue skirt, white leggings and light blue sparkling shoes. Typical Capitol colour co-ordination.

The Peacekeeper gripped her slender arm tightly, forcing her to reveal the palm of her hand. Her reaction to this was a small but audible "ouch".

"Get used to it kid." The Peacekeeper whined, as he quickly scanned her hand. A beeping sound signalised that the scan was complete.

"12PF56."

After the Peacekeeper with the scanner revealed the strange code, a Peacekeeper who was stood next to him grabbed the girl.

"Take her to the 12PF section."

"Got that."

The Peacekeeper escorted the girl along to where I presume the 12PF section is located. Meanwhile, I turned to face the other line.

Alexander was acting surprisingly calm, despite the medicine and his prior behaviour. Was this part of the mood swings? Maybe he was aware of the threat of the Peacekeepers? Maybe he was taking the advice that Mother gave to us, regarding the Skyvale neutrality and survival?

If Alexander was to start acting strangely again, it would have severe consequences. Is it possible that these factors can use emotions such as fear to temporarily stop the side effects?

Moiselle never informed us of when the effects of the medicine even wear off. With the exception of fatigue, I feel okay. I assume that I am going to recover in no time. Alexander's eventual recovery is uncertain.

Regardless, he seems to be disproving my suspicions...

...for now.

He was stood behind a male in a green cloak, the colour of the cloak matching the colour of his slick hair.

I could see that Alexander was examining him.

Rather comically, the green haired, green cloaked male turned to face Alexander.

No words came out of his mouth, but he did tilt his sunglasses in order to wink. Accompanying the wink was the flash of a grin that could only be described as 'serpentine'. When the line was moving along, he turned back around.

Because he was the next person to be scanned.

"Hurry up and give me your hand."

He did as he was told.

"18SCM87."

As was the case with the girl, a Peacekeeper escorted "Green Cloak" aw-

"Hey you, next!"

Before we realised it, Alexander and I were at the front of our respective lines. I positioned my hand hastily, so that the scanning could be completed faster.

"18ARF21."

In the other line...

"18ARM22."

As much as I did not want to let Moiselle or Mother down, I had to separate from Alexander. If I wanted to uphold the promise I made in regards to survival, I could not invoke the wrath of the Peacekeepers. Regardless of whatever the outcome, the separation would only be temporary; so the promise would still be intact.

I caught a glimpse of Alexander's look of reassurance.

The beginning of the reaping proceeded as normal. Firstly, the video from the President with a segment about how much of a great nation Panem is and what it has endured; civil wars, rebellions, genocides etc. Following that segment, there was the segment on the Aleronian Reforms of 250ADD: which re-established the Games, plus made it more difficult to overthrow The Capitol; leading into the final segment: The Capitol's achievements since those Reforms - especially achievements relating to the Games. The biggest achievement were the nine times that The Capitol had a victor.

I did not care for the video. I was trying to keep in mind Mother's words about the neutrality of our family and I have seen the video for the past seven years, so it was nothing new.

After the video, the five Victors who were still alive were to arrive onto the stage.

Esmeralda Midori, the victor of the 451st Hunger Games, was the first to come out onto the stage. She had appeared on the video as a small, yet agile 12 year old, with platinum blonde hair fashioned into pigtails and violet eyes. How she became a victor was extraordinary not because she was the sole survivor of a deadly explosion, but because the favourites to win were ironically the cause of the explosion.

The video also showed Esmeralda's reaction to her victory, before she was taken out of the Arena. She came out of where she had settled, after hearing the final cannon of the Games, and examined what was left; including what appeared to be the disintegrating skeletons of her fellow tributes.

Her Reaping outfit had been the uniform of one of The Capitol's various private schools, hinting at a potential wealthy background (as well as highlighting her then-status as a student). But that is all it was, a hint. Esmeralda was never one to talk about herself, so she was a mystery to some degree. The Midori family name was not of any significance and still does not have any significance to this day, despite Esmeralda's victory.

For the Chariot Parade, the theme of The Capitol's outfits for that year was royalty. Esmeralda was given a modest caped gown, covered in diamonds, and a laurel crown. I do not know what would have been considered more controversial; the fact that it looked like something that the District 1 tributes would wear or because the crowns helped imply that the Gamemakers were going to fix the Games so that The Capitol could win.

Esmeralda's interview outfit, a green and floral long-sleeved dress and flats, had a sense of innocence that could only be viewed now as melancholic. It was the final outfit that she wore before the Arena changed her.

On the stage, her outfit was unsurprisingly dark. What she was wearing was called, back in the days of old, a kimono. The kimono was the nighttime sky shade of black. Her slippers were also black.

Despite her age, and the amounts of surgery that she has undergone since her victory, she looked like she was in good health. She had taken wooden sticks of some sort and placed them in her greying hair, so that her hair would stay away from her face and be kept in place; on top of her head.

Esmeralda was received with an atmosphere of respect. In The Capitol, her role was the wise and graceful elder. She greeted the part of the crowd that was enthusiastic with a simple wave, before taking her seat.

Esmeralda was a victor that I genuinely admired, especially because she was the symbol of neutrality. I admired her more than the next victor to arrive.

Artemisia Dorcas was the epitome of the "pretty and flirtatious Capitol girl/money-making machine" stereotype. Despite winning exactly a decade ago, by being a master of poison usage, she is given the mentor position almost every year. When she is not mentor, the position is given to the other Capitol sweetheart, Emmett Tempest. She presents herself in clothing from District 1, being yet another example of The Capitol using District 1 as clothing inspiration, and uses these prominent characteristics to gain favour with the males.

So, it does not surprise that several of The Capitol's males fawned when she made an "dazzling" entrance, blowing kisses, flicking her pastel blue hair and twirling in her magenta corset dress and high heels. However, even she manages to show Esmeralda some respect, as she immediately greets her with a single nod.

When she was finished with her entrance, she took up a spot next to Esmeralda.

In typical fashion, Emmett followed Artemisia. He was met with rapturous applause.

Everyone knows the story of Emmett Tempest, being one of the most famous victors in recent history. The finale of the 491st Hunger Games was so cliche; Emmett clearly being set up to become the heroic figure and the overpowered District 6 male being set up as the villain. Yet, it is regarded as one of the most popular finales.

He and Artemisia were consecutive victors, Emmett winning a year after Artemisia. The duo had much in common, so it was inevitable that they created a strong friendship.

He was wearing a red sequinned tuxedo, the white blouse underneath having been unbuttoned slightly so that part of his muscular chest was visible. On the end of his necklace was a Capitol emblem charm, which rested on the exposed part of his chest. His shoes were also red and decorated with sequins.

Emmett's hair, had been kept short and remained the same shade of red as last year. Strange, considering that his hair is one of the characteristics that he became known for. I wonder why that is.

He sat down next to Artemisia.

The audience was preparing to see the arrival of Abellone Quarani, the female victor of the 495th Hunger Games, and Tallis Vienna, the male victor of the 497th Hunger Games.

Unfortunately for them, Abellone and Tallis were going to be absent.

I knew immediately that they were not going to show when a Peacekeeper approached Artemisia. The signals she was giving to Artemisia clearly meant that Artemisia was expected to take charge of the microphone, which had been standing in the middle of the stage, and give the announcement that they were not going to arrive.

Artemisia rose from her seat, gladly taking the microphone.

"Hello ladies and gentlemen! I have both good news and bad news to announce. Do you want the good news or the bad news? I'd prefer to go with the bad news first."

The audience agreed. They wanted the bad news.

"As you may have noticed, Abellone and Tallis were unable to make it tonight. Luckily, that's the only piece of bad news I have to share. The rest is all good, good, good from here!"

Negativity from the crowd quickly turned into positivity.

"Firstly..."

Artemisia turned towards Emmett.

"...Emmett you need to be standing next to me."

"Is it my time now? Okay!"

His voice was full of enthusiasm, as he rushed to stand by his friend.

"Artemisia and I are proud to announce..." Emmett started off the sentence.

"...that for the first time, we are going to be sharing the role of mentor!" Artemisia finished it, somehow not getting bored of acting jolly. I guess that is to be expected of a walking stereotype.

The crowd roared in excitement.

After the crowd had calmed down, Emmett had regained control of the microphone.

"Now for the final part of the reaping before the big moment. Please stand for the President."

The occupants of every section stood up, presumably due to the presence of the Peacekeepers. I turned to face the light-green haired girl who was stood next to me.

In order to not creep her out, I took a quick glimpse of her. She looked uncomfortable, playing with the rose in her hair.

She noticed me.

"I hate everything about this." She whispered. I was able to hear her, despite the Capitol anthem playing in the background.

I looked around to find that a Peacekeeper was stood at the back of this section. I made awkward eye contact with him.

President Kenta finally appeared on the balcony. He was not a stereotypical President, as he was in his mid-twenties and was handsome.

Kenta walked up to the microphone that had been provided for him, located in front of his seat.

"I welcome you all to The Capitol reaping for the 500th Hunger Games! Also known as the 20th Quarter Quell!"

I only listened out for the key pieces of information that he revealed. As Mother had said, this year was a Quarter Quell so anything could happen - and gaining the knowledge could be a major advantage.

"The code that everyone was given upon entering correlates to this year's theme."

"Overall, there will be 64 tributes..."

"...therefore, each competing district, plus The Capitol, will be represented by four tributes each."

Unarguably, the piece of information that caused shock and an explosion of gasps amongst the crowd was..

"There are going to be eight victors this year."

The revelation that there were to be eight victors had evidently shaken a lot of the crowd. They applauded for Kenta as he had finished his welcoming speech and sat down, but they were in shock.

It was Artemisia who was in possession of the microphone on the stage.

"With all of the annual reaping traditions complete, I think it is time to proceed with what you are all here for in the first place, the reapings! As President Kenta mentioned, everyone has a unique and individual code as it is connected to this year's theme. When myself or Emmett picks out a name from the reaping bowl, not only will we call out the name of that individual, we will also be calling out their code as well. Now, let the show begin! Emmett, please select a name from the male reaping bowl."

"I'm on it."

Emmett was already positioned behind the male reaping bowl. As soon as he grabbed one of the slips inside, he lifted it.

I could only hope that it was not Alexander's name and code.

"18SCM87, also known as Nathair Belli."

The screens turned to face the 18SCM section.

Green Cloak was Nathair Belli. The green cloaked, green haired male with sunglasses who stood in front of Alexander. The male with the serpentine smile.

He appeared to be emotionless, a far cry from his confident nature earlier, as a Peacekeeper escorted him to the stage. His cloak was blowing in the wind, as he walked swiftly.

"You must be Nathair! It's nice to meet you!" Artemisia enthused.

"You too, Artemisia."

Nathair's confident nature returned, as Artemisia proceeded to give him a minor interview about his attire, to which he replied that it was just his style.

Besides his name, age and clothing, he was mysterious. And I may be correct to assume that that will be his natural angle in the Games.

Esmeralda was observing Artemisia's questioning of Nathair, whilst Emmett was giving quick glances at the President.

"If anyone would like to volunteer, speak now."

There was nothing but silence.

"Ladies and gentleman, Nathair Belli!"

The crowd clapped. Nathair stood back, allowing for Artemisia to walk over to the female reaping bowl. Compared to Emmett, she took her time to select a slip.

When she finally picked one...

"18ARF21, also known as Alexandria Skyvale!"

I knew that the chances of being reaped were a possibility. I am just surprised that Alexander did not do anything stupid.

However, that could change now that I had been reaped, as cliche as that sounds.

The girl who had talked to me earlier gave me a sympathetic look. I recipocrated with a look of my own. Like Mother had said, we Skyvales are neutral.

I was on every screen, so I did not have to look behind me to see that the Peacekeeper who I had made awkward eye contact with was coming to escort me to the stage. I had no choice but to follow.

"You are one of the prettiest girls I have ever seen!" Artemisia cheered. I was now stood on the stage, in front of the watchful eyes of the crowd. Nathair was doing to me what he had done to Alexander, Esmeralda was smiling at me and Emmett was still looking at the President.

"I doubt that, but thank you." I respond. I was met with a chorus of "aww" and "Don't say that, you are!".

Artemisia's attention turned to my hairpin.

"This is a pretty hairpin. May I ask what the story is behind it?" She asked, playing with it.

I proceeded to explain the story behind the hairpin; it was given to me a couple of hours ago by my Mother. It is both a birthday present and a token.

"Today's your birthday?! Happy birthday! What's your brother's name?"

"Alexander."

Artemisia ordered for the Peacekeeper to display Alexander on the screens, by using his code to locate him. However, when they managed to find Alexander, now visible, he had made his declaration to volunteer known.

And then...suddenly collapsed.

They had put him onto a stretcher, and brought him to the stage.

Both of us were on the reaping stage.

On our birthday.

In our final ever reaping.

"What are you doing? He did not mean to volunteer! He is under the influence of powerful medicine!" I pleaded with the Peacekeepers, hoping for a chance to nullify his declaration.

But my chances were looking pathetic.

"Due to a surprise volunteer, we can move onto the final selection!"

Artemisia had already moved onto the final reaping selection.

Esmeralda looked at me with pity, the Peacekeepers and Nathair were smirking in amusement, Emmett was still looking at the President rather lovingly..

..and Alexander was unconscious.

"Regardless of what state he is in, he said that he wanted to volunteer as a tribute. He volunteered before Emmett could even get the chance to pick a name for the second male, therefore confirming his spot. Medicine of any kind wears off eventually, so that is a dull excuse." One of the Peacekeepers carrying the stretcher laughed. "Now, if you don't mind, we're gonna take your brother inside."

As much as I wanted to, I could not object. I had already tried to object to Alexander volunteering, to no avail. In order to avoid delaying the end of this reaping, I observed Artemisia's selection of the other female tribute.

"16VF59, also known as Marietta Laveux!"

Marietta was from the sixteen year-old females section, who had been given a code featuring "VF". She was tall and thin, dark haired with the exception of a white streak and her eyes and makeup were the same colour as her corset top, orange. The only part of her outfit that was even noteworthy was the satchel belt she was wearing. I could tell that what was inside the satchel was a book, due to the shape of the outline.

Now that I was now under the status of "tribute", the Peacekeepers could not harm me - unless I did something extreme. But considering that my suspicions regarding Alexander had come true, I doubt that would even happen. If I were to do anything stupid, it would be for Alexander's sake.

After all, Mother did tell us to stick together.

Jupiter Rigel (District 0)
Plan: Flashback to two years ago; the 498th Hunger Games. District 0 was in the midst of an illness outbreak. The District 0 female tribute was Jupiter's elder sister, Eliza. Eliza and the male tribute had been initially been infected, but the Capitol cured her in time for the Games. However, the weakness left over from the illness had an effect on their performance. The male died in the bloodbath. Eliza made it quite far, but only because she stayed hidden due to being weak. Her end came in Day 6, when she entered a section of the arena that was designed to look like a museum. The commentator for the Games promised any tribute that could figure out the mystery of the museum treasured items from their home district. Sadly, before she could figure it out, she was caught by traps and bled out.

Back to the present, Jupiter is with Blanche, worrying about the Games due to what happened to Eliza. Blanche does her best to comfort him, promising to never leave his side.

Blanche is reaped, so Jupiter gains the courage to volunteer - so he can stay by Blanche's side. {This is going to be romantic}.

If I had to describe my family, I'd say we were average. An average, quiet family. We weren't rich or part of the Panem elite. Not even the District 0 elite.

Mom is an astrologist, astrology being the main industry of District 0, and Dad is a surgeon. Because of their salaries, I could at least afford to go to school and own items that would be considered a luxury in poorer districts.

Our house is a spacious cabin within a neighbourhood near the mountains. The chimney was always releasing smoke, due to the climate always being either rain or snow. Sunshine was a rarity here.

The old wooden swings in the front yard, which was still standing for sentimental reasons, was caked in the recent batch of snow. I resisted the temptation to swat the snow away from the seats.

I walked up the stairs, arriving onto the porch. Again, I resisted the temptation to clear the snow from the railings and the windows.

It was Dad who greeted me at the door. His hair was dishevelled and his eyes were encircled with exhaustion. Underneath his black winter coat, he hadn't changed out of his surgeon's uniform.

"Blanche?" He asked. Looks like we're all solemn today.

"Yeah."

I stepped inside.

"Take your shoes off."

Mom's voice came from the study. She must have heard the door being opened.

I did what I was told, and took my shoes off.

Her favourite colour was violet, and she made sure that her room represented that. The walls were painted violet, the duvet and pillow covers still had the violet covers from the day she left, even the curtains were violet.

Her aspiration was to follow in Mom's footsteps. Amongst the numerous posters that she had owned was the constellation for Libra, her starsign. She had also owned a necklace that had the Libra constellation, a gift that Mom and Dad had bought her for graduating from school.

I wished the necklace was still here. But it wasn't. She had taken it with her.

Her other interests, beside astrology, were photography and music. On her desk stood her camera, surrounded by scattered photographs.

I picked up the photographs.

The first in the series was one of her friends from school, Eliona. Eliona was a kind and friendly girl, characteristics she shared with her. It wasn't a surprise that they ended up becoming friends. In the photograph, Eliona was preparing to throw a snowball and laughing.

The weather was brighter and warmer in the next photograph, as it was a picture of violets in the sun. Like I had said, sun was rare in District 0. She would have excited that day.

What was after that caused me to feel...overwhelming sorrow.

A picture of her at her piano performance and a picture of us.

I remember that night so vividly. It was Dad who took the picture of her during the piano performance. It was took after she was finished, since she was stood on stage, in front of the grand black piano.

She was a gifted pianist, being invited to performances and competitions. But she didn't care for large audience quantities. She loved to perform for anybody, feeling satisfied if she gained even just one listener.

Having experience from designing outfits for...the...the Games, the prep team for the performers had made her look astonishing. As the representative of District 0, she was given a black gown, full of diamonds. It was as if she was the embodiment of a starry night.

The photo of us was taken that same night. Mom and Dad had taken time off work to watch her performance, so she was ecstatic. Dad gave her camera back to her, and she ended up taking so many pictures.

Strangely, I couldn't find the rest of the pictures from that night. The only photos from that night which I found were the two in the series that was on the desk.

She was smiling and wrapping her arm around me. I got nervous, since she took the photograph so suddenly.

I took the picture and sat at the piano in the corner, which was the one she used to practice. Looking at that picture; seeing her smile again, remembering the softness of her hair, staring into those jade green eyes of hers....

"You've been crying. Your eyes are puffy."

I sat on one of the swings. Blanche sat on the other.

"Y-yeah."

I looked at what she was wearing again. Her black and purple hat, purple scarf, her basically purple winter outfit.

I was thankful that it wasn't violet.

"I made sure not to wear violet. I know Eliza's death is still painful."

''District 0 was hit by another plague outbreak in 498ADD. The death toll for this one was over 200.'' ''Demographically, no one was safe. The lives of men, women and children were claimed.''

''Several facilities were closed, including the Observatory. Mom and Dad were given time off work, and I was told to stay off school.''

''Eliza was one of the infected, so Mom and Dad couldn't use their time off to relax. She was bedridden, unable to move.''

''"I want to stand up, but I can't without coughing up blood!" She cried, in a croaked, nasally voice.''

''"You need to keep taking the antibiotics." Dad advised.''

''"And rest too. Forcing your body is going to worsen your condition." Mom added.''

''Whilst this plague occurred, The Capitol was getting ready to set up the reapings for the 498th Games. Of course, this was met with protests in District 0, because of the plague. The President was doing nothing to help us, basically leaving us to deal with it. Some citizens were even begging the Peacekeepers to deliver medicinal supplies.''

''The protests were to no avail. Two weeks later, the District 0 reaping for the 498th Games took place. Everyone was forced to show up, even those who were infected.''

''Eliza, who was pale as a ghost, was taken to the reaping in a wheelchair. She had been wrapped up in various layers of clothing, in an attempt to get her body temperature back to normal. On top of the layers she was wearing lay her Libra constellation necklace.''

''The district escort, Silke Zezil, was oblivious to what surrounded her. She was another product of The Capitol, following any instructions they gave her. I imagine that one of the instructions was to ignore the fact that much of the District 0 population was infected or dying from a plague. Being part of the privileged, she had protection against this plague. So of course she wouldn't care for something that couldn't affect her.''

''Unsurprisingly, the Peacekeepers treated everyone like cattle, separating the infected from the non-infected. It's fortunate that we were used to the cold climate.''

''Both of the tributes that year were reaped. No one volunteered.''

''The male tribute was one of Eliza's former classmates, Alvyn. I remembered walking past Alyvn and his group of friends in school and listening to his jokes. He was a genuinely likeable and sociable person.''

''The plague had made him a shell of his former self, no trace of his strong build or his tanned skin to be found. He was emaciated and pale.''

''Watching someone so likeable suffer so much, even relying on a walking stick to help him stand up, was saddening. ''

I hoped that the sadness would just end there.

But...I was wrong.

"Eliza Rigel!"

(Continuation of flashback)

''The atmosphere of the house that evening after the reaping was gloomy and despairful. We knew that Eliza had practically no chance in the Games; she was bound to lose.''

''The following family dinner was completely silent. Mom, Dad and I couldn't even stomach the food properly, because we were overwhelmed with anxiety and sorrow. Eliza's absence was the elephant of the room, and neither of us could bring ourselves to look at her empty seat. ''

''I hated the idea of losing faith in my sister, but I just couldn't help it. My heart and mind were in agreement that a miracle was needed if Eliza was to win the Games.''

So when hope suddenly made itself known, the atmosphere drastically changed.

The Chariot Parade.

''The theme of everyone's outfits for the 498th Games was mythology. I remembered that so vividly, because we had brought ourselves to watch it.''

''Luckily, we didn't have to endure the agony of anticipation. Eliza and Alyvn's chariot appeared once The Capitol tributes' chariot was in full view.''

''They had been given a new lease of life. Any signs of infection from the plague had been eradicated.''

''Smiles had returned to our faces. Eliza was cured.''

''The stylists for the two carved out a positive image from their negative circumstances. They had chosen to portray them as the phoenix, a creature said in mythology to have possessed the ability to be reborn over and over.''

The duo definitely turned heads that night.

''The hope from the Chariot Parade was followed by the tension of the Training sessions. It was fine and all looking healthy, but was she well physically? How would she have fared against the other tributes?''

''She ended up with a score of 6. We had deduced that she would still be weak, due to her body being forced to suddenly recover, so to see her score was astonishing.''

''"It means that she can go for the strategy of hiding under the radar." I remembered Dad saying.''

''If there was one thing I knew about Eliza, it was that she wasn't stupid. She would go for a clever strategy.''

''In the interviews, Eliza truly embodied the idea of rebirth. She had returned to her lively, cheerful self. Her outfit was a green robe - green being the colour of rebirth.''

''She mentioned us in her interview. Mom cried throughout.''

Meadow Beauchene (District 1)
Plan: The POV is a small glimpse into Meadow's life prior to volunteering. Meadow's father, Garnish, is a novelist. His most successful novel is called The Tragedy of Laconte. Meadow's mother, Heloise, is an actress. Meadow is attending a preview of a movie that Heloise stars in; Queen of Deception. Garnish also attends the preview, but he is occupied with interviews regarding his next book.

Then, the POV cuts to the moment when Meadow decides to volunteer. The ending is a description of the Fort twins and Raynia.

Haldin Pax (District 2)
Disclaimer: Abuse

The vomit. The sweat. The tears. The indescribable pain in my stomach as every blow he dealt was consistently powerful. Trying to fight the urge to puke up blood.

TBA

Talasi Hollier (District 9)
Plan: Talasi works as a maid for the Inoue family. While the family seems to treat her well, Talasi has a very hostile relationship with one of their sons, Barric - having been former school rivals. Barric was the reason why Talasi had to drop out from school, due to an unexplained incident. Due to being eligible for the reaping, Talasi is given a day off from her duties to prepare for the reaping. When she is finished getting ready in the Maid Quarters, she encounters Barric who reveals his plans to volunteer for the Games and join the Career alliance. Talasi mentally vows to volunteer and join the Anti-Careers to oppose him.

Talasi ends up being reaped, while Barric follows through on his plan to volunteer.

Levi Mustel (District 10)
Plan: POV is spread over two days - Levi is attending the final of a cooking competition in the district the day before the Reaping. The winner receives several prizes, including money. The Mustel family is a prestigious cooking family in decline, with the matriarch dying of an illness {the matriarch is Levi and his elder brother's mother}. Levi's reason for attending the competition is because his brother is one of the finalists. His brother ultimately loses, meaning that they don't get the financial prize. Levi decides to volunteer for the Games, seeing as it is the only other option the family has {the elder brother is in his twenties, therefore too old to participate in the Games}. He is confident that he can use butcher's techniques in the Games to kill and win.

Alexander Skyvale (The Capitol)
Plan: The aftermath of the medicine. They feel better. Alexander learns from Alexandria what happened. Alexander tells her not to worry as they can think of a game plan.

Emina Canai-Ciel (District 6)
Disclaimer: Abuse

Plan: Emina is having a panic attack from seeing Aristotle on TV {broadcast of district reapings and District 3's reaping is shown}, Xaveria comforts her. Asher watches them in private.

Marietta Laveux (The Capitol)
Plan: Being the misanthropic person she is, Marietta ignores the Capitol crowd. She is reading The Tragedy of Laconte, the book being her token and her favourite book.