[underseetruths]

— welcome to 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒔 . . 💭!

mumu blog for eventiderpg ; penned by am, twenty4, gmt+7

ᰋ̱ ۪ ࣪ ﹙☆﹚ ࣪ ִ madge undersee ; tags ; credits l 𝆬 ‹3

ᰋ̱ ۪ ࣪ ﹙☆﹚ ࣪ ִ anna ; tags ; credits l 𝆬 ‹3

[calofhearting]

"Oh, thank you," Calista replied. Her parents had spent months debating names before settling on Calista and Cato. Her mother had wanted a strong name for her son but a beautiful name for her daughter. Calista was always told that her name meant beauty but Cato's name meant all-knowing. Cato used to tease her about it, and it used to make Calista so mad. But now? Now she would take the teasing back in a heartbeat. It had been so petty as most sibling arguments were, and she missed it. Sometimes she thought that her name was pretentious and she worried that people thought differently of her because of her name. She knew it was probably all in her head. "Anna's a beautiful name," she complimented. It was simple but elegant, and not at all pretentious.

Turning back to the glass display with her brother's armor, she gestured towards it. "He was my brother," she replied softly. "Cato. I guess...I just found my way here, you know?" Calista replied. "What about you? What brings you in here?" She couldn't imagine what it was like, facing the Quarter Quell, facing the arena. She didn't envy any of the tributes, especially because they had thought that they were safe.

[underseetruths]

anna's   eyes   subtly   scrutinised   the   other   woman   in   the   room,   her   gaze   attentively   tracing   from   her   face   to   her   attire   before   returning   to   her   expression.   it   was   an   instinctive   habit   she   couldn't   quite   explain,   but   one   she   had   always   indulged.   reading   people   had   been   a   fascination   of   hers;   beyond   their   spoken   words   and   overt   actions,   she   found   the   unspoken   signals   to   be   far   more   intriguing.   with   a   hint   of   harshness,   she   concealed   her   envy   and   responded,   “   thank   you.   i   came   up   with   it   myself,   ”   while   secretly   wondering   about   the   origin   of   calista's   name. following   calista's   line   of   sight,   anna's   eyes   settled   on   a   familiar   outfit   encased   within   a   glass   display.   the   harsh   illumination   made   it   challenging   to   discern   the   details,   but   after   a   moment,   she   managed.   her   thoughts   wandered,   imagining   if   she,   like   cato,   would   have   her   arena   attire   showcased   in   a   similar   glass   enclosure   next   year.   would   her   loved   ones,   morgan   and   her   father,   visit   her   ??   or   would   she   be   left   to   endure   her   fate   alone ?? suddenly,   the   words   escaped   her   lips   before   she   could   stop   them,   “   i'm   sorry   about   your   brother.   ”   the   silence   that   followed   felt   interminable,   anna   grappling   with   her   choice   of   words.   “   i   saw   how   he   .   .   .   died.   ”   she   wanted   to   retract   her   statement   instantly,   berating   herself   for   uttering   such   inconsiderate   words   to   someone   who   was   clearly   mourning.   “   i   mean   .   .   .   ”   she   cut   herself   off,   realising   it   was   best   to   halt   the   conversation   before   causing   more   pain   for   both   of   them.

[subsiist]

Madge repeats about his favorite color in a way that suggests she doesn't understand it. "A recent discovery," he tells her. "Once I really had a chance to just sit and look at the sunset. It's pretty in Twelve, but you should see it in Four. Over the sea like that? There's little prettier than tha'." Katniss, maybe, he thinks. She's prettier than the sunset. He doesn't say it though.

And, just as Madge had been for him, Peeta tilts his head in confusion of her favorite color. "White? Why, that hardly seems like a color. What makes ya like it so much?" He dreams in color - it's something he's always done, since he was a child. He hadn't realized when he was young that not everyone does that. "White is one of the most important colors when paintin', though, I'll give ya that. You can't do a proper mixin' without it."

He gives her a gentle smile when she says that Pa is right about making the same kinds of bread. There's something in her words, the softness of them when usually she's so even, that tells Peeta she might just understand what he'd meant. Even the most privileged in Twelve - and Madge certainly is - understands hardship.

"How ya findin' the Capitol?" he asks and there's a gentleness in his tone, too.

[underseetruths]

madge   found   peeta's   choice   of   orange   as   his   most   preferred   colour   rather   peculiar,   considering   his   typically   subdued   taste.   the   recent   memory   of   effie   trinket's   vibrant   hair   during   the   recent   reaping   day   crossed   her   mind,   but   peeta's   explanation,   likening   orange   to   the   hues   of   a   sunset,   brought   a   newfound   understanding.   “   i'll   have to take   your   word   on   that,   ”   she   replied,   realising   that   her   opportunities   to   visit   other   districts   were   currently   limited.   perhaps   in   the   distant   future,   when   she   assumed   the   role   of   mayor,   she   would   have   the   chance   to   explore   beyond   district   12,   although   such   prospects   remained   uncertain. as   madge   continued   to   survey   the   surroundings,   discreetly   anticipating   the   arrival   of   another   tray   of   delectable   treats,   she   nodded   in   agreement.   “   white   embodies   innocence   and   offers   a   clean   slate,   ”   she   remarked,   turning   to   peeta   with   a   warm   smile.   “   it   reminds   me   that   no   matter   how   much   one   may   have   stumbled   in   the   past,   there   will   always   be   the   opportunity   for   a   fresh   start   when   they   turn   the   page.   ”   madge   acknowledged   her   idealistic   view   of   the   world,   acknowledging   that   it   may   be   seen   as   naive,   but   it   was   a   perspective   she   held   onto. reflecting   on   the   demanding   week   that   had   transpired,   madge   confided   in   her   companions,   “   this   entire   week   has   left   me   quite   exhausted.   ”   memories   of   the   tense   preparations   for   katniss   and   peeta's   wedding,   her   unexpected   encounter   with   hazelle,   and   the   startling   letter   she   had   received   from   haymitch   flashed   through   her   mind.   she   considered   herself   fortunate   to   have   been   the   first   to   discover   the   letter,   as   the   consequences   could   have   been   dire   if   someone   else   had   come   across   it.   “   and   how   are   you   and   katniss   holding   up   ??   ”   she   inquired,   genuinely   concerned   about   their   well-being.

[fatefought]

the mayor's daughter is ever respectful. she calls him by his surname, something her friend from district twelve also does. at least given the status of role she played at the district twelve's victors' wedding would imply a closeness to katniss everdeen. the integrity of the union is questionable, but the strategy was impeccable. their former mentor would not comment on the sincerity when beetee whispered a pondering at the reception. ( though haymitch also had countless beverages by then. ) " it's an excellent means of speaking to more sponsors which is ideal, " he remarks about the afterparty. " has it been enjoyable for you ? " sometimes lottery winners marveled, especially those from outlier districts that traveled a considerable distance.

and marvel does she, as the young woman takes in the sight before her. there's an undeniable sincerity in the reaction. he allows himself to take in the familiarity as well. his favorite aspect was the wall of cellular devices. below each listed an approximate year of creation ; spend enough time and one will read about how there is still an assortment of other phones that panem has been incapable in recovering. history is fascinating. " most of the creation came before i even became a victor alas. architecture isn't my strong suit. the board has approached me in the past in regards to understanding how certain devices can function. that's the most i've provided to the museum however. "

[underseetruths]

madge's   gaze   shifted   from   the   room's   captivating   surroundings   as   the   victor   addressed   her.   with   a   genuine   smile,   she   responded,   “   if   i   may   be   honest,   this   event   has   worn   me   out,   but   i   am   grateful   for   the   opportunity   to   explore   this   remarkable   museum.   ”   her   eyes   wandered   again,   taking   in   the   breathtaking   setting   before   her.   “   i   have   encountered   countless   wonders   within   the   pages   of   my   father's   extensive   library,   yet   nothing   quite   compares   to   the   magnificence   i   am   witnessing   here.   ” though   struggling   to   keep   pace   with   the   flood   of   information   imparted   by   the   esteemed   gentleman   by   her   side,   madge   maintained   an   expression   of   unwavering   interest.   “   mr.   latier,   i   believe   you   underestimate   your   own   contributions   to   the   capitol.   i   am   confident   that   you   have   made   significant   and   enduring   impacts,   and   i   have   no   doubt   that   your   influence   will   continue   to   shape   this   city   for   the   better.   ”

[fatefought]

madge undersee had the diplomacy of her father, perhaps it's even inherited. she has the uncanny ability to respond to a question while completely evading providing an answer at times. most figureheads of the districts develop this skill overtime. miss undersee is but a young woman of only twenty-five. ( how impressive indeed ! ) if she remains flourishing the way she does, she'll make for a good replacement of her alcoholic patriarch. may she usher in a new age for district twelve, and quell the oxygen required for flames to grow unnecessarily rampant.

" of course, my dear. such decisions cannot lay with a dull-heart, nor should they be made with haste. i only encourage a sooner decision as you're already twenty-five. don't be wasteful with your youth and potential. an education in the capitol opens tremendous doors. there's a certain sublime factor in someone from district twelve thriving. do you not wish to represent your home ? you would evoke endless pride, i hold zero doubt. " his voice does not falter, only adding to the confidence in the words he speaks. coriolanus only finds one fault in the young woman before him, and that's the unfortunate company she keeps.

[underseetruths]

it   was   a   rare   occurrence   for   madge,   to   lose   control   of   a   conversation,   particularly   one   with   the   most   influential   person   she   had   ever   encountered.   yet,   there   she   stood,   astonished   before   president   snow,   struggling   to   find   the   appropriate   words   to   respond   to   his   flurry   of   compliments   ( or   what   she   presumed   were   compliments )   and   inquiries.   however,   one   significant   observation   caught   her   attention   —   the   president   displayed   a   peculiar   level   of   interest   in   her.   while   some   might   argue   that   it   was   merely   her   imagination,   attributing   his   attention   to   her   status   as   the   daughter   of   district   12's   mayor,   another   part   of   her   intuited   that   there   was   more   beneath   the   surface.   the   events   of   the   past   year   had   taught   her   that   there   was   always   an   underlying   layer   beyond   what   met   the   eye. she   composed   herself,   maintaining   a   poised   demeanour,   as   she   responded   to   president   snow's   persuasive   words.   “   thank   you   for   your   insightful   perspective,   president   snow.   i   appreciate   your   recognition   of   the   importance   of   thoughtful   decision-making   and   the   value   of   seizing   opportunities.   ”   while   she   understood   the   potential   doors   that   an   education   in   the   capitol   can   open,   she   believed   it   is   essential   to   weigh   the   impact   and   responsibilities   that   come   with   representing   district   twelve.   her   commitment   lies   in   finding   the   most   meaningful   way   to   contribute   to   the   well-being   and   progress   of   her   home,   and   her   focus   right   now   is   to   continue   exploring   avenues   that   align   with   these   values   and   aspirations   of   hers.

[underseetruths]

@mxllitiam it   had   been   several   days   since   she   last   encountered   gale   .   .   .   well,   'encountered'   is   not   quite   the   appropriate   word   –   witnessed   is   probably   more   suitable. it   was   the   previous   sunday,   a   day   she   vividly   remembered   due   to   her   rare   day   off   from   her   duties   (which   she   typically   spent   tending   to   her   garden).   the   memory   of   that   day   remained   etched   in   her   mind,   as   she   doubted   she   would   forget   the   events   that   transpired   anytime   soon.   while   perusing   the   market   in   search   of   seeds   to   purchase,   madge   noticed   a   flurry   of   activity   as   vendors   began   hastily   packing   up   their   wares.   she   realised   it   was   still   early   january,   and   the   sun   would   soon   set,   but   she   hadn't   expected   the   market   to   close   at   such   an   early   hour.   approaching   a   stall   that   seemed   to   be   open   (or   perhaps   in   the   process   of   closing,   as   it   was   hard   for   madge   to   discern),   she   made   a   passing   observation,   " seems   like   everyone   is   eager   to   head   home   today. " "   didn't   you   hear   ?   " "   what   about   ?   "   "   a   new   peacekeeper   just   came   and   an   earlier   curfew   has   been   imposed.   that's   why   everyone   are   packing.   i   live   close   by.   " "   oh.   "   she   replied,   she   was   never   told   that   a   new   peacekeeper   is   coming   in   today   ?   maybe   her   father   know   more   about   this   ?   why   didn't   he   tell   her   ? "   they   also   said   someone   got   beat   up   .   " madge   stayed   silent,   she   was   not   sure   if   she   wanted   to   listen   to   the   rest   of   what   the   seller   had   to   say.   "   it   was   a   cousin   of   katniss.   you   know   –   the   tall   one.   " gale. "   gale   ?   "   she   reached   out   again,   this   time   searching   for   his   eyes.   he   seemed   distracted.   she   was   stood   on   the   steps   outside   of   her   house,   across   the   boy   who   was   stood   just   a   little   out   of   reach   –   but   she   did   not   want   to   stand   any   closer   to   him.   neither   of   them   had   exchanged   any   words   since   her   initial   greeting   of   " hello "   a   few   minutes   ago.   "   they told   me   you   came   by   to   see   me   ?   "  

[incaensio]

cheer deepens between them in a way hardly felt tonight by the victor, and madge's laughter shows it, accompanied by the widening of katniss' smirk into a smile. it is only when gale is brought up that the light dims a little in both of them. on that horrifying day thread made himself known as the new head peacekeeper of twelve, madge had come to the everdeen's with leftover medicine for gale — katniss had burned at the sight of it, torn between jealousy and despair and gratefulness because she didn't want to see gale in pain, and the morphiling gifted by madge presented that. then, she had wondered what was there, behind gale's annoyance towards the mayor's daughter, and madge's act of unprompted kindness; jealousy doesn't ring now, though, only curiosity and even that is dulled by reason. of course madge cared for gale, in a way. wasn't she going to be mayor one day? and she was a good person. and they were friends forever, so it was natural she wanted gale not to be miserable or in pain, because katniss might have felt the same, if she knew madge's other friends.

"he is as we could expect if someone had taken his mama and is about to kill her in front of ‘im." the words are less than soft, but it's hard to watch her language when that fact still makes her angry. katniss purses her lips, trying, and shakes her head. "he didn't want to be here, of course. none of us wanted him, or hazelle here. so it's… tough." to say the least. "four is not… a good score." katniss confides, voicing what she had told herself not to linger in, after talking to peeta. but it's hard to escape, hard to filter herself, especially when she's around someone of comfort. she raises her eyes to madge as she speaks, and it seems they've both come to the same realization: condolences may be the better word, because hazelle may as well be on her burial clothing as she walks around the room, preened up to her discomfort and the capitolites' pleasure.

she sighs, gives madge another glance. "your daddy graduated from here?" they don't talk much about mr. undersee. they used to, when they were smaller, and mrs. undersee was still alive — katniss sort of liked the mayor, in a way that she knew he tried, but there was only so much he could do; he was kind to her family, too, and that wasn't the norm for townies (perhaps his prejudice didn't run as deep as others because he had been friends, or at the very least, acquaintances with lilian, when she was the apothecary's daughter, rather than another miner's wife). "if you don't want to, hopefully you don't need it for runnin' a town. wouldn't like ya here, all by yourself." whilst katniss is here, sure. but she dreads to imagine how the president may spin madge into another object of torture, ever at his grasp, lead to suffering all because of katniss.

[underseetruths]

tw: anxious thoughts, thoughts about vomiting

as   the   weight   of   silence   settled   between   them   once   more,   madge   reminisced   on   the   countless   occasions   they   had   danced   to   the   rhythm   of   this   familiar   song.   it   followed   a   predictable   pattern:   a   challenging   question   was   posed,   met   with   silence,   then   answered,   followed   by   another   bout   of   silence   before   moving   on   to   the   next   difficult   inquiry. madge   couldn't   deny   occasional   thoughts   of   longing   for   different   circumstances,   yearning   for   alternate   topics   to   explore.   however,   she   recognised   the   inevitability   of   fate   and   its   immutable   course.   the   impact   of   her   question   about   gale   was   palpable,   evident   in   the   rapid   shifts   in   katniss'   countenance.   though   she   considered   offering   an   apology   to   redirect   the   conversation,   the   opportunity   had   slipped   away,   leaving   madge   to   rue   the   foolishness   of   her   inquiry. as   she   listened   intently   to   every   word   that   flowed   from   katniss'   mouth,   madge's   legs   weakened   beneath   her,   threatening   to   give   way.   each   sentence   carried   a   weight   that   seemed   to   burden   her   physically,   causing   her   stomach   to   churn   with   waves   of   nausea.   the   intensity   of   the   emotions   stirred   within   her,   rendering   her   momentarily   disoriented   and   vulnerable   to   the   overwhelming   sensations   that   surged   through   her   body. madge   contemplated   recounting   her   recent   encounter   with   hazelle,   which   had   taken   place   just   days   ago,   right   after   the   harrowing   experience   of   the   reaping.   the   unexpected   invitation   from   the   grieving   widow   had   caught   madge   off   guard,   as   their   prior   interactions   had   been   limited   to   mere   exchanges   of   a   couple   of   sentences.   nevertheless,   she   felt   compelled   to   comply,   understanding   the   significance   of   offering   companionship   to   someone   facing   their   imminent   demise.   if   she   were   to   share   this   experience   with   katniss,   madge   preferred   a   more   secluded   setting,   away   from   the   prying   eyes   of   the   party.   additionally,   she   pondered   delving   further   into   her   thoughts   regarding   pursuing   a   university   education   in   the   capitol,   acknowledging   that   her   conversation   with   the   president   had   sparked   a   seed   of   consideration   within   her.   with   a   gentle   tug   on   katniss'   hand,   she   encouraged   the   victor   to   follow   her   lead,   suggesting,   "   c'mon,   let's   talk   somewhere   else.   "   a   corner   of   the   room   caught   her   attention,   appearing   less   crowded   and   more   conducive   to   private   conversation. as   they   neared   the   secluded   corner,   a   sudden   shift   in   tone   emanated   from   the   holograms,   capturing   madge's   focus.   she   pivoted,   observing   the   collective   gaze   of   the   crowd   fixated   on   the   hovering   screens,   their   expressions   ranging   from   concern   to   anticipation.   with   a   brief   glance   at   katniss,   madge   struggled   to   discern   the   emotions   etched   upon   her   face   before   another   jarring   noise   pierced   the   air.   compelled   by   her   curiosity,   she   redirected   her   gaze   towards   one   of   the   holograms,   gradually   succumbing   to   a   growing   sense   of   horror. as   the   scenes   unfolded   on   the   screen,   madge's   countenance   transformed,   registering   a   mixture   of   shock   and   dread.   she   closed   her   eyes   then,   not   wanting   to   see   the   rest   of   it.

[calofhearting]

Taking another look at the woman standing there, Calista suddenly realized that she was one of the Tributes, and guilt filled her stomach. Why had she snapped?

Calista had known plenty of the Tributes that went before Cato, had gone to school with some of them, had trained with some, and looked up to others. It wasn't until Cato had volunteered that she had really thought about what it was like to be here and to go through all of the interviews and the preparation. It must have been exhausting. Calista was exhausted and she was only a lottery winner. The tributes being older...it seemed...harder, somehow. "I am," she replied, turning away from the armor and facing the other woman again. "I'm Calista Hearting. You're...from One, right?"

At her question, she raised an eyebrow. "To the Capitol? Or...to this room?" It was strange, to find the one room that held Cato's armor, the armor that had been sent to him because they were so sure that he was going to win. And yet...in the end...she hated to think of the end. It was far too painful. There had been moments that felt like he was still there...and she wondered if his spirit had somehow led her here.

[underseetruths]

tw: discussions of pregnancy anna   approached   calista   with   deliberate   poise,   offering   her   a   warm   smile.   "   what   a   beautiful   name.   "   she   complimented.   there   were   many   desires   that   anna   knew   she   didn't   necessarily   need   but   yearned   for   deeply,   and   having   a   name   that   exuded   beauty   and   meaning   was   among   them.   while   'anna'   was   the   name   bestowed   upon   her   by   her   father — an   uncomplicated   and   practical   choice — she   had   always   longed   for   something   more   profound,   a   name   that   carried   greater   significance.   this   was   why,   during   her   pregnancy,   she   spent   eight   months   deliberating   and   eventually   chose   the   name   'morgan'   for   her   daughter.   the   name   had   first   captivated   her   years   ago   while   reading   a   book   for   school,   and   she   stumbled   upon   it   again   in   the   library   of   one   of   her   clients   while   she   was   expecting.   he   had   shared   that   his   family   held   a   distinguished   lineage,   possessing   remnants   of   their   ancestral   heritage   from   before   the   first   rebellion — a   notion   she   found   intriguing   yet   elusive.   with   a   graceful   bow,   anna   introduced   herself,   saying,   "   anna.   the   one   and   only.   " a   sense   of   curiosity   arose   within   her   as   she   wondered   why   someone   as   lovely   as   calista   would   be   alone   in   a   room   as   cold   and   dimly   lit   as   this.   prompted   by   her   genuine   interest,   she   inquired   once   more,   "   the   festivities   are   taking   place   outside.   why   don't   you   join   them   ?   "

[subsiist]

She says she doesn't like things too sweet and he gets that, but it's a luxury he never had growing up. His diet consisted of whatever was leftover from the bakery. Maybe it's why he's not as into the desserts as Katniss is. Upon coming to the Capitol last year for the Games, his teeth were brittle, hurting at cool air or sometimes if he bit down too hard. Like everything else about him, his prep team had fixed that error.

He hums in agreement, but says no more about it. Anything other than extremely grateful to the Capitol would do no good here. Instead, he listens to her talk about strawberry pastries. "Your pa usedta buy strawberries from Katniss, right?" He keeps it simple, not telling her that Katniss would find them beyond the fence. After Gale this winter, that would do no good. He remembers hearing about it from Katniss, though. They've had plenty of time to talk before bed, both of them fighting off sleep and nightmares for long enough to finally learn about one another outside the act they've been forced to play.

"I'm glad you're enjoying something here, then," he says, making sure to keep his voice light, even. It's a barely-there slight at the Capitol and all that he'll get to do here.

He adverts his eyes to the Avox just as he was taught a year ago - not wanting to bring more harm to the unfortunate person who's tongue has been cut out - but accepts the orange pastry from Madge. "My favorite color," he muses absently, a mumble against his smile, and takes a bite.

It's got a bitter sort of sweet taste to it and he chews slowly, trying to decipher the ingredients. Some sort of pecan on top, caramel in the center, a delicious mix swirling together, just enough crunch. He wishes he could bring it home to Rye to taste, his eldest brother being the one in charge of the pastries back home.

It's like Madge can read minds because she asks exactly that. "Yeah, I was actually just thinkin' about that," he says with a laugh. "Some of 'em might make it, if we wrapped it in that special paper they have here. But who knows how long ago these were made, ya know? Gotta be somethin' new, fresh, if I were gonna do that. Not sure they'd really be interested, though. The same old stuff sells back home all the time. My pa says... ain't broke, don't fix it."

He doesn't explain that the reason it's all the same stuff is because it's all people can afford. He assumes she'd know that, even as the mayor's daughter. The one family that could probably buy anything they wanted in the store.

[underseetruths]

madge   undersee   can   be   described   in   countless   ways,   but   above   all,   she   epitomised   politeness.   throughout   her   life,   she   had   mastered   the   art   of   self-control.   whenever   food   and   drinks   were   served,   madge   would   patiently   abnegate,   ensuring   that   everyone   else   was   served   before   indulging   herself.   however,   she   found   it   impossible   to   contain   her   excitement   as   she   held   a   delectable - looking   dessert   in   her   hands.   taking   a   bite,   she   marvelled   at   the   soft   and   moist   texture, carrot cake perhaps ?    memories   flooded   her   mind   of   her   mother,   who   would   occasionally   make   similar   treats   using   limited   ingredients   in   district   12,   where   even   the   mayor's   wife   faced   culinary   constraints.   madge   cherished   those   moments   when   her   mother   emerged   from   her   room   for   more   than   a   fleeting   moment,   dedicating   precious   time   to   create   something   special   for   her.   although   her   mother's   culinary   skills   were   not   exceptional   ( nor   was   her   own,   to   be   fair ),   madge   appreciated   every   effort.   spending   time   with   her   mother   in   the   kitchen   held   a   special   place   in   her   heart.   in   later   years,   when   she   yearned   for   her   mother's   presence,   madge   would   attempt   to   recreate   her   dishes,   but   they   never   quite   matched   the   original   taste.   nevertheless,   she   savoured   those   imperfectly   replicated   creations,   for   wasting   food   was   never   an   option   in   her   eyes. after   discreetly   examining   the   dessert   on   peeta's   plate,   now   slightly   dishevelled   from   his   eager   sampling,   madge   concluded   that   it   was   essentially   the   same   cake,   albeit   with   a   different   coloured   glaze   on   top.   "   orange   is   your   favourite   colour   ?   "   madge   found   it   an   intriguing   choice,   though   she   couldn't   pinpoint   why.   "   mine   is   white.   " her   thoughts   shifted   to   the   families   in   district   12,   both   in   the   town   and   the   seam.   peeta's   remark   held   undeniable   truth.   the   majority   of   families   in   district   12   were   unfamiliar   with   luxury,   as   circumstances   afforded   them   no   other   option.   depending   on   their   daily   income   and   the   number   of   mouths   to   feed,   the   residents   had   to   make   tough   choices,   often   sacrificing   quality   for   affordability,   prioritising   sustenance   over   preference.   offering   peeta   a   gentle   smile,   madge   acknowledged,   "   your   father   is   absolutely   right.   "   she   momentarily   considered   delving   into   a   conversation   about   peeta's   own   family   but   restrained   herself,   not   wanting   to   derail   the   current   exchange. nevertheless,   the   notion   of   sharing   these   delightful   treats   with   the   younger   children   back   home   lingered   in   her   mind.   perhaps   she   could   bring   some   for   prim   and   allow   her   to   share   them   with   her   school   friends.   alternatively,   she   could   pack   a   few   for   hazelle's   boys,   honouring   her   promise   to   look   after   them   to   the   best   of   her   ability.

[perfectaches]

continued from here — @underseetruths

Madge's presence in the Capitol alongside her son's has sent Hazelle into a near spiral. It's too obvious, and it's clear the stakes are too high this year. Hazelle has never quite believed in the rigging of the Games that some mothers blame when their sons or daughters are taken — she believes in the tesserae they take out year after year and the names that are entered into the bowl dozens of times. The Games are always rigged against the masses that can't afford to live, not one individual. But this year is different, and she knew that better than anyone when her name was called. Her reaping is an obvious punishment for the Capitol's Girl on Fire — and having her two closest friends there to witness it seems like icing on the cake.

So yes, Hazelle is worried about Gale. She's worried what they'll do to him when she's thrown to the slaughter — if he'll be able to go back home or if they'll execute him right before Katniss' eyes. Rationally, she knows there isn't anything Madge Undersee can do to stop any of that. She may be the mayor's daughter but she's got no pull here in the Capitol — to these people, she's just another faceless barbarian from Twelve like the rest of them. But part of her hopes she can keep an eye on Gale, that she can keep the fire that's been lit under him from consuming him whole in a way that Katniss can't (not because she doesn't want to, but Hazelle sees that same fire in Katniss too — it's one she could find buried deep within herself, if she looked hard enough.)

"I was just hoping you could tell me what it's like for you all when we're training and everything," she starts, eyeing Madge to decide if the blonde can see right through her pitiful attempt at refraining from outright asking 'is my son keeping out of trouble?' "I just worry they're not lettin' you all have a minute to breathe, that's all."

[underseetruths]

hazelle's   words   hung   in   the   air   for   a   few   moments.    madge   initially   remained   silent,   absorbing   every   word   from   the   older   woman   across   from   her.   with   utmost   attentiveness,   she   listened   as   hazelle   hawthorne   poured   out   her   deepest   fears,   unveiling   a   request   that   madge   knew   was   inevitable.   as   the   only   child   of   the   mayor,   madge   was   well   aware   that   one   day   she   would   inherit   her   father's   responsibilities.   it   should   not   have   surprised   her   that   a   disadvantaged   woman   from   the   seam   would   approach   her   seeking   assistance.   in   the   end,   they   were   all   victims   of   the   capitol's   brutality,   and   no   citizen   of   any   district   could   escape   its   grasp.   yet,   despite   her   knowledge,   madge   found   herself   speechless,   sitting   face-to-face   with   hazelle   hawthorne. it   should   not   surprise   her,   but   it   did. with   her   mouth   slightly   agape   and   her   mind   racing   for   an   answer.    hazelle's   question   was   succinct,   but   the   weight   of   her   worries   resonated   in   the   air.   madge   possessed   a   natural   empathy   and   keen   observational   skills,   allowing   her   to   discern   the   underlying   emotions   in   people's   words.   this   conversation,   however,   carried   a   different   energy   that   eluded   precise   explanation.   “   i   stay   at   the   house,   ms.   hawthorne.   i   watch   the   games   like   everyone   else   in   the   district,   “   madge   replied,   her   voice   conveying   a   mixture   of   empathy   and   understanding. growing   up,   madge   had   always   carried   a   certain   stigma.   she   was   acutely   aware   that   the   mothers   of   her   school   friends   harboured   reservations   toward   her.   they   would   put   on   a   polite   front,   inviting   her   to   their   homes   for   dinner,   but   madge   overheard   their   whispered   conversations,   filled   with   disparaging   remarks.   she   had   learned   to   cope   with   such   treatment,   understanding   that   she   couldn't   be   universally   liked.   however,   when   those   discussions   turned   to   her   late   mother,   it   hurt   madge   deeply.   yet,   hazelle   had   never   engaged   in   such   gossip,   and   madge   had   always   held   a   deep   respect   for   her. as   madge   attempted   to   speak   once   more,   she   noticed   her   voice   falter,   barely   producing   a   sound.   summoning   her   strength,   she   tried   again,   her   determination   heightened.   “   ms.   hawthorne,   “   she   began,   her   voice   more   resolute,   “   i   promise   you   that   i   will   do   everything   in   my   power   to   ensure   the   safety   and   well-being   of   your   family.   “   summoning   her   courage,   she   rose   from   her   seat   and   approached   hazelle,   reaching   out   to   clasp   her   hand   in   a   gesture   of   support.

[vengefvlx]

Cadence was used to the decadence that surrounded the Capitol. It was hard to avoid here. She often found herself looking at people and wondering if it was their true hair colour. She'd managed to avoid her stylists dying her hair. It had been her on choice over the last year to dye the front pieces of her hair a white colour. It was in a bid to stop herself looking like Clove so much. Of course that was now made a lot harder, since they apparently had a thing about dressing her up like her sister. But Cadie was trying her hardest to stay her own person.

She disliked herself in the Capitol though. The dresses and heavy make up they put her in really were not her. She would have much been in her comfy clothes, hanging out in the tribute centre. That was where Cadence tended to spend most of her time. Even when the games was going on she tended to spend a lot of time in the District 2 areas. Last year had been an exception where she had spent more time in the Victor Lounge. If she'd been able to get closer to the Mentor's Lounge she would have, having wanted to be as close to all the updates about Clove's sponsorships as she could have been. It still frustrated her to no end that she hadn't been allowed in there, considering it was her sister in the games. But she had, and still did, trusted Thea unconditionally, so it had mostly been okay. Until it hadn't.

"Are you feeling ready for the Arena?" It was a genuine question. She could still remember the night before her games. It had been both exciting and terrifying. "It's a strange experience.... I remember it well."

[underseetruths]

tw: implied gore

as   anna   attentively   listened   to   cadence,   she   took   her   time   to   observe   the   appearance   of   the   victor.   while   they   had   never   interacted   in   person   prior   to   this   evening,   anna   was   familiar   with   cadence's   prominence   both   in   her   home   district   and   the   capitol.   she   had   often   pondered   what   life   would   be   like   as   a   victor   —   an   individual   who   defied   the   odds   and   emerged   from   the   games   not   only   alive   but   stronger.   naturally,   she   would   never   dare   ask   these   questions   to   a   victor   from   another   district,   as   her   father   would   have   her head.   nevertheless,   anna   allowed   herself   to   wonder.   one   notable   aspect   that   caught   her   attention   was   cadence's   striking   hair.   unlike   the   extravagant   and   eccentric   hairstyles   of   capitol   citizens   (   she   swore   a   few   days   ago   she   walked   past   someone   with   towering   structures   resembling   intricate   architectural   wonders,   adorned   with   an   assortment   of   colorful   feathers,   jewels,   and   cascading   ribbons   )   cadence's   hair   with   its   white   highlights   possessed   an   understated   allure   that   compelled   anyone   to   take   a   second   glance.   did   her   stylist   specifically   instruct   her   to   dye   her   hair   ?   anna   found   it   difficult   to   imagine   someone   like   cadence   obediently   adhering   to   every   instruction   given.   perhaps   it   was   a   personal   choice   ?   if   so,   anna   had   to   admit   that   the   district   two   victor   possessed   exceptional   taste. upon   hearing   cadence's   question,   anna   took   a   moment   to   reflect   and   formulate   a   response.   in   all   honesty,   she   was   consumed   by   worry   —   deeply,   unrelentingly   worried.   she   recognised   her   own   vulnerability   beneath   the   veneer   of   district   one's   glitz   and   glamour,   beneath   the   various   personas   she   portrayed   for   her   evening   clientele,   and   beneath   the   facade   of   a   resilient   mother   fighting   not   only   for   herself   and   her   district   but   also   for   her   infant   daughter.   anna   was,   at   her   core,   a   mere   human,   and   fear   coursed   through   her   veins.   however,   she   couldn't   allow   cadence   to   witness   that   side   of   her.   she   couldn't   reveal   her   vulnerability.   so,   she   held   her   tongue   and   offered   a   falsehood,   〝   i   was   born   ready.   〞

[kimsparis-deactivated20240318]

You can see why someone like Madge, who has never been at risk of needing a tessera, can set [Gale] off. The chance of her name being drawn is very slim compared to those of us who live in the Seam. (The Hunger Games p. 13) 

THE HUNGER GAMES APPRECIATION WEEK ➤ Day 7: Something you wish had been in the movies ✦ Katniss describing the reaping system & tesserae (+Madge)

[snowfuls]

the hush that falls over the crowd as the clips begin to ring out is punctuated by awkwardness. only once before has enobaria witnessed a collection of capitolites so visibly perplexed and that was during the conclusion of last year's games. the inane fascination with their district's fallen tributes vexing her even now as holograms force violent recollections. she's included... of course. teeth bared for the very first time, boy's blood dripping from them. enobaria's seen this more times than she'll ever care to count. a well established favourite amongst capitol broadcasters when it came time for pastel presenters with shrill voices to rank their "top ten kills" or count down the viewers' "favourite final days". face a screen and it became an inescapable image. hell, even without one, the feeling is always visceral. still, enobaria can't help but think it's a cliché choice. hardly the shocking visual to drive a message home. such bemusement is knit between her dark brows. a sentiment evidently shared by brutus, who is stood just a few paces away from her, spotting the district one tribute and signalling her arrival with a dip of his jaw before enobaria has even noticed she's there.

❛ oh, is that what my face is saying? ❜ teasing words are thick with playful incredulity. unable to resist toying with those who sought to make a good impression. ❛ why, did you enjoy that little show, anna? just think... in a few weeks time, you could well be part of the lineup too. ❜ then again, enobaria is rooting for the complete opposite to occur. anna's not dissimilar to her predecessors. pretty, tactical and on a glaringly obvious charm offensive. likely talented in one way or another too, given her score from the gamemakers. ❛ congratulations on your nine, by the way. ❜ a taunting pity it wasn't a ten is left unsaid. the imagined tantrum cashmere must have thrown at the result bringing a faint smile to the victor's lips. toothless as ever when the emotion behind it isn't being forced. truthfully, there's an eagerness to see whether the career pack will make a return come noon tomorrow. not that they ever spell everlasting friendship. enobaria had personally taken a sword to her district one ally. but she's convincing when it comes to playing at getting along. especially if it's for ambrosia's benefit.

[underseetruths]

anna   tightly   clenched   her   tongue   to   suppress   the   urge   for   confrontation.   engaging   in   a   public   altercation   with   a   victor   would   be   unbecoming   of   her   status   as   a   mere   tribute.   this   was   the   second   veiled   insult   she   had   received   from   the   district   two   contingent   regarding   her   evaluation   score – first ezra & now her ?!   recalling   cashmere's   encouragements,   which   were   more   like   strategic   instructions,   anna   pondered   the   notion   of   playing   the   underdog   card   to   her   advantage.   if   she   executed   it   skilfully,   she   could   deliver   a   captivating   performance   that   would   surpass   even   the   previous   year's   victors.   the   satisfaction   derived   from   this   thought   permeated   her   being.   however,   she   needed   to   maintain   her   composure   and   think   strategically.   every   moment   she   remained   unresponsive,   letting   the   congratulations   hang   in   the   air,   was   a   missed   opportunity   to   leave   a   lasting   impression—to   make   her   mark.   anna   was,   and   always   had   been,   a   performer,   and   the   hunger   games   were   simply   another   stage   for   her   to   captivate   an   audience.   ❛ what   can   i   say ?   i'm   a   great   performer.   the   game   makers   must   have   impeccable   taste, ❜   she   retorted,   emptying   the   contents   of   her   flute   before   swiftly   procuring   another   drink   from   one   of   the   bustling   avoxes   surrounding   them. reflecting   on   the   perplexing   clip   she   had   just   witnessed,   anna's   primary   concern   cantered   around   the   purpose   of   its   display.   was   it   meant   to   rouse   fervour   among   the   capitol   citizens ?   instill   fear   in   the   tributes ?   or   was   it   purely   for   the   sake   of   entertainment ?   though   she   found   no   enjoyment   in   such   gruesome   scenes,   she   surmised   that   individuals   like   enobaria   might   revel   in   the   spectacle.   recalling   the   chilling   sequence   that   showcased   enobaria's   merciless   final   kill,   anna   couldn't   help   but   shudder   involuntarily.   perhaps   the   choice   of   a   backless   dress   had   not   been   the   wisest   decision   after   all.   suppressing   her   unease,   she   tentatively   inquired,   ❛ how   did   it   feel,   enobaria ? the killing ❜   carefully   controlling   her   voice,   she   hoped   to   conceal   any   trace   of   fear   that   lurked   beneath   the   surface.

[samcarpnter]

ELODIE YUNG as ELEKTRA NATCHIOS MARVEL’S DAREDEVIL | S02E08, Guilty as Sin

[uroko]

滿山的綠 漫天的霧

[cottagesongs]

[julieterbang]

kogumaitan

[luxspuss]

$