---►Can You Hear the Wind ? [D9 plot]

[Prince Inigo]

Here we are, guys! Time to start this shindig. As we start off this competition, it would be great if we could have one-two posts to let us know that you are, indeed, active enough for the tournament. (Then again, if you're not active enough, that's just going to work against you for future threads anyways...)

Important information will be put in a different color, as well as any talking; any additional information that you may want to be put in your posts will be bolded. We will have be having this thread between four days to a week before we move on. Until then, have fun!

---

Current time: 3AM. You all had to wake up extra early for the competition, and everyone was explicitly told that the tournament will take place over the course of the entire day. Whether you packed up for the entire tournament was entirely up to you; either way, you all had arrived - more or less - onto the grounds where the hunting would take place, with whatever hormones emotions you had.

When you entered into the area, there was people to greet the hunters; and, with your invitation, you were able to enter without them being suspicious. Anyone that did not have said invite was to run on home and retrieve it quick; but, according to the desk people, there was no one to do so yet. At this point, one had said that latecomers would have little time to join. It was a good thing you brought that flimsy piece of paper, right?

According to the attendance sheet, there was a total of ten contestants to fight - indirectly and including yourself - for the prize. After the desk, there was a huge metal fence, perhaps twenty-feet-or-so tall, that went around in a circle to a distance you could not follow. Certainly, the gate was to make sure no one would retrieve meat outside of the designated space, and it had to be ginormous. After all, cheaters never prosper. When you got done with the signing, everyone that was anyone entered in - with or without hesitation - into the gates; and, with a friendly smile, the guards waved to you and told you to have a nice time. Well how thoughtful of them!

Entering inside, there were stuffed animal bodies with plaques to indicate the date they were slain. Each one of them seemed to be growling, snarling with their teeth glistening white, as though polished just recently. They took their stances toward the center, prostrating themselves to the 'king'. Yes, in the center of the wide space was a stuffed lion; and, unlike the others, he was not kneeling or looking weak. He was strong, and he was the king. (Yet the 'king' died sometime five years ago).

This entire place was at least green and full of luscious flora.

Hardly much time had passed for a booming voice to echo - though by which means unknown. "Good morning, everyone! Once everyone important has arrived, we will begin the speech concerning the tournament rules. Until then, please relax, have yourselves some food and drinks between our stuffed animals, and talk to some people - if you so wish. Thank you." With a buzz, the power of the voice was shut off. And the voice was true; between the stuffed animals was food and drinks for your enjoyment.

This will be fun!

[shrimp]

When I first saw you I knew nothing's like it used to be

The letter had changed everything.

It offered pride, really. That's probably why I accepted it. But hunting is in my blood - it's what I lived for, what my parents lived for, and when District 9 switched its industry, well I wasn't exactly the happiest camper, if you know what I mean. The hunting grounds, everything - all gone. Sure, I did still sneak past the barrier to continue hunting; it was the only thing I could do. Why do something else when you know what you're good at? There was no way that I'd go and work in the plastics factory or anything of that sort. I'm one of the best hunters that District 9 has ever had. Why would I give that up?

So when my eyes first glanced at the letter, well it was exciting, to say the least. I could get rewarded for something that I do well, and that's a prospect that I'm willing to fight for, no matter what. Besides, what have I got to lose? My parents aren't around, nor is my sister. In fact, the only company I have left is my dog, and he isn't much help. I haven't even seen DeRicasho lately. And the competition seemed to make something just 'click'. Immediately I started preparing myself - I'd escape into the wilderness much more than normal, sometimes even staying there until the wee hours of the night. I feel like my aim and precision became even better over the few days that we had before it started.

And then I arrived, and it was a bit strange. There was this rather large fence which stretched out into the beyond and there were guards too (I didn't wave back, by the way). The whole thing seemed a bit unnerving; why have guards if one would lose their pride if they cheated? It's not necessary. The 9 other people who are coming here are probably bright enough, smart enough to know that cheating meant getting booted out of the competition. And that would ruin their pride, and pride is something that us hunter relish. Without it, what are we? Just people who go and kill animals that are much larger and stronger than us, that's all. We deserve it, and to lose it would surely be the same as death.

Perhaps other arrived as a voice echoed throughout the large room (they had better have arrived; I don't want them to be barred from the competition. Winning by default is no fun at all), but I didn't notice them. I was a bit out of it at that point - yes, I was used to staying up all hours of the night and hunting all day (this would be easy enough), but the long trek had taken a toll on me, as well as the sight of the large stuffed animal that I had never seen before. This stuffed creature... There had been variations of it in different Hunger Games but I had never seen one in person. If I was correct about it, this was one of those ancient animals, a lion. Well, it probably wasn't ancient, per say because it seemed relatively not-ancient, but still... This place seemed too strange - it was abnormally green and looked more intimidating and mysterious than inviting.

I just shrugged and walked away, but on the inside I was a bit... Nervous. Would I meet creatures as ferocious as the lion on my quest for fame? This whole set-up...

Well, needless to say, it was a bit disturbing.

[Spesh]

Walker Liggens

Actions/Thoughts: 66acbd
Speaking: 1b8787
Thoughts of Paraphilia: 40a89f

One thing that worried me about joining the beast master competition -or whatever it was called- started so early. Three in the morning? I never thought that people got up that early, it was crazy. I did not bother going to sleep in the first place, probably something I would end up regretting later, but it did not matter. I figured that it would be easier to just stay up, though my body seemed to be paying for it at the moment.

Looking over at my clock it reads something blurry that I would not doubt to be something like 2:45 in the morning. I figure it is about time for me to get up from staring at the ceiling and actually show up on time to the competition. I hate having to lie to my parents, but at least they will see the note. Maybe I can win us a nice way of living for a little while. That is probably unlikely, but I cannot win if I do not try.

Putting the note on the ground next to my bedroom door I slip quietly out of the house. One thing that hunting had taught me was to be silent. Being quiet made life much easier for me, nobody ever really toke note of me, and I liked that. Thankfully my house is fairly close to where the meeting place is, so I did not have to leave earlier. Despite this, I walk briskly. At least I brought the watch that I found just outside the factory so I could know what time it is. Maybe it will come in handy in the competition.

Walking through the forest district at night was not an easy thing, in fact it was quite creepy. But I had to make it to the competition without being late. That would have been a bad start for me, and that was not something that I wanted. I eventually make it to the clearing with a good five minutes to go. Quickly I show the people sitting at the desks, probably Capitol attendants or something, my invitation and I am let into the fenced in area behind them, which I assume is absolutely massive.

As I walk in I hear a voice, but I really pay not much attention to it. There are beautiful animals around the clearing, absolutely stunning. They, in fact, catch my attention at first, but then my head is turned to a gorgous mountain lion. I would walk up to it and stroke it, I would stare at it for hours in all honesty, but then people would think that I am wrong in the head. So I sadly take my gaze away from them and turn it towards the food. Seeing the food makes me hungry, so I quickly walk over it and start to eat. Hopefully I wont have to worry about hunger any time soon.

[Morgana]

Flaya Melisa

And all you need is a hunger to feed.

They won't notice I'm gone. Mom and Dad don't care about me. They don't care what I do. It doesn't matter that as I slip out my door I may be walking towards my death. They don't care. And I don't care that they don't care. They've never cared, and I've learned to live with it. I'm tough. I'm strong. I don't need them. Haven't for a while now.

Some people must be taking this beastmaster thing seriously. Whether it's for the food or the glory, I don't know. But me? I'm here to win. You see, when I was thirteen, I realized that life is short. You have to make the most of it. So I made a list of twenty things to do before I take my own life. Because let's face it- who doesn't want to choose the way they die? #5 on my list just so happens to be: Win a contest. So that's what I'm going to do. And if I don't win, oh well. I might get to check something else off my list, such as, #4: Kill something, or #18: flick someone off. If I don't get to kill something, I will be sincerely disappointed.

I hand my invitation to someone who lets me in and points me in the direction of a gate. It's tall, somewhere around four times my height. The fence stretches further than I can see. With a shrug, I head inside, giving a tiny wave to the guards standing sentry near the gate. They kind of creep me out. They're so smiley. I have to resist the urge to check #18 off my list then and there. But I figure it would be best not to insult anyone just yet. I don't want to get kicked out before this thing has even started.

There are dead animals set up all over the place, and in between them are tables of food and drinks. The animals freak me out even more than the guards, and they remind me why I'm here. To kill animals. I've never killed anything before, except the odd bug and the mice that invade our house every winter. I don't count the mice towards #4, just because I've been killing them my whole life. I want something bigger. Something that can fight back.

A voice comes loudly from somewhere unknown. It's loud enough that I can hear it clearly, even with my poor hearing. Stupid ears. Would it kill me if I chopped them off? Would I lose enough blood to do the job? Probably not. I saw tons of people lose ears in the Hunger Games this year, including that gargantuan freak from District Eight and her lover boy. If both of them could survive severed ears, I'm sure I'd be able to, too. Even if it was both ears instead of just one.

I wander to a table, catching a heavenly scent as I approach. Is that- Could it be? Apple pie! I never dreamed they'd have food here, and certainly not apple pie. I've never had it before. In fact, it's #16 on my list. My family's too poor to afford the ingredients for an apple pie, and even if we could afford it, I don't think anyone would know how to make one. I carefully slice a piece of the pie, my mouth watering form the delicious smell. I find a fork nearby and use it to cut a tiny bite from my slice. When the food enters my mouth, I can't help but smile. It tastes better than I ever dreamed it would. I lean back against the table, settling myself in.

This is going to be a piece of cake. Or perhaps it's a piece of pie?

[apocalypse]

CLYDE, cloversmith
{gold [main&thoughts], D44269 [speech], EB9330 [lyrics].}

I didn't really know what to expect.
I mean sure, I realized that it was going to be an awesome tournament thing in which I might win free food, but other than that, I mostly clueless. The one thing I was sure - and lucky about - was that to win, I just needed to hunt animals down, and kill 'em. What an easy process. My thoughts were rebounding all through my head as I went to the place where the tournament was to take place. I would be excited, but seeing as I woke up at 1 AM, most of my energy was drained. I hope we don't have to start soon. At least I was too tired at the time to get nervous.
I hope this is worth it.
I felt like arriving rather early - at 2:56 AM - wasn't going to give me a good, nor bad, reputation; I never know. In my big hand was a floppy piece of paper - my invitation - which was also my key.
There was a large fence around the perimeter, like it was protecting us from goblins that would come and attack us, but I realized it was our boundaries. As I reached the gate, I saw some guards waving at me. How friendly, I thought. Handing them the invitation is an easy task, even if I still am half asleep.
Although I'm not scared of dolls, or any type of beastly animal (most of the time), there was a mixture of the two; stuffed-dead-animals. It was scarier than you think, and in the middle was a brave lion. Everything in the inside seemed to reflect the outside-world, stuffed-animals and green things everywhere.
The first voice I heard - besides my mom's - this morning, were that of a random voice that originated from somewhere unknown.

Good morning, everyone! Once everyone important has arrived, we will begin the speech concerning the tournament rules. Until then, please relax, have yourselves some food and drinks between our stuffed animals, and talk to some people - if you so wish. Thank you." The voice seemed to float away as it got cut off. Food, that's what I need.
Right now, I was in the mood for something simple, like a fruit-juice and a hot-dog. Going to the table, I did see some pineapple-juice, something I would have every blue-moon, and a hot-dog. Looks like my hunger and thirst were going to go away. I really never thought this place would have food, but it did, and I wasn't going to turn down the offer. Munching on the hot-dog and sipping on pineapple juice made me wake up the slightest bit, as a ketchup-covered-meat/food isn't something I normally eat at three in the morning.

[/blockquote][/blockquote][/color][/left]

Tonight I'm staring at the moonlight
Tonight I'm wondering how this could've felt so right
And I could say it was a good time
But I can hardly say a thing
He's got you right where he wants you
Right where he wants you
-
-

[/size]

[jimmylost]

Thistle stood off to the side of the growing group of contestants positioning herself near a fierce looking cat creature. The impression you'd get from this girl would have you grouping her with the stuffed beast sooner then the people. Then again if she could find similar people to herself anywhere it would be here among those who considered themselves 'the best' hunters. Perhaps it was these nine others who had the potential of meeting her predator gaze and finding what lies past it. This wasn't something the girl hoped for, she had no gnawing need for understanding. She displayed a complete disinterest in being understood.

Well she displayed such disinterested for most things around her including her current surroundings. One would wonder why she'd sign up for such a tournament if she really didn't care but the calm with which she presented herself despite the ominous setting implied that she might know more about what was going on then the rest. Then again she might be trying to make the others think that, though that might just be the way she always viewed the world.

Eye's traveling around the area seemed to hold no sign of the late/early hour as if she was more then used to this time, then again you could almost assume that Thistle never slept if you where naive enough. She glanced at each contestant in turn never changing her expression or posture but somehow giving off an aura that said she felt these people beneath her notice.

There was no reaction to the voice announcing the circumstance and food around them, nor was there any reaction to the food. It was at this point that you might notice Thistle had brought nothing with her into this enclosure but the clothes on her back. The clothes themselves being nothing more then a light gray long sleeve that looked far to thin for the weather and dark green pants.

When the contestants had reached half the predicted number Thistle switched from the statue-like stance she had been holding herself to previous. She pulled herself into immediate motion with an almost insect like movement and circled the area with all the innocents of a shark.

[Rosetta]

Aaden Gorozine

It was way too early to be up. Have you ever been up at 2 in the morning? No? Well, neither have I. Why did I sign up for this stupid competition anyway? To get up this early, with purple circles under my eyes, acne, and a sluggish overall attitude? Nope. I signed up for food, and I swear, I better get it for waking up this early.

You see, I heard about the contest from a flyer. Just a random flyer I found shoved halfway under the door of my house. I’d picked it up, brought it inside, and showed my mom. My mom’s this dark haired petite woman, you see. When her brown eyes get wide, they seem to swallow up her face. So, with face-swallowing eyes, she read the flyer and looked at me. “Yes, so, Aaden?”

“Can I do it?” I asked her. She looked skeptic. The flyer was advertising the Championship of the Beastmaster, some contest that involved hunting animals. Which was right up my alley.

"Why do you want to do this?" she asked, squinting the flyer again. I ripped it from her hand, and pointed at it.

"Do you not see that we get five years of food?" I cried, rolling my eyes at her. My mother cocked her bony hip to the side, taking the flyer back, obviously contemplating her next course of action in her head. For all you who are not familiar with my mom, she's one to think things through. She might take days to give you an answer. And when she does, it's always a well thought out answer, so you can't argue. She also couldn't take big news. When my real father left us, she was shocked for days, I'd find her in the same position, cleaning the same plate, hours after I'd left her. But, she can get over things easily, and the next week, she was taking me out to hunt again. I guess that's what happens when you're a mother with a child and a duty. However, I knew telling her my, er, secret would send her over the edge in astonishment. And I wasn't yet ready for that. When I found the flyer, all I wanted was an answer and I was impatient. I shifted from foot to foot, and crossed my arms.

"Mom?"

"Yeah, what?" She looked up, eyebrows raised.

"The flyer?"

"What about it?"

"Whatever, I'm going to be 18 in a few months," I told her, yanking from her hand again. "I'm going."

"Alright, fine," she held up her hands in surrender. "Whatever you say, Aaden. I just think we're pretty fine right now in turns of food, and that could go to some other family." And there she is, my saint-like mother. Listen, don't you think I don't love her or anything, because I really do, but sometimes she tries my patience, let's say. Ever had someone in your life that you can love and be irritated by? Well, that's my mother. When I do something she doesn't agree with, well, she gets this kind of disappointed tone. Which is probably why I'm not going to tell her anytime soon.

Tell her what, you're asking, right? Well, um, promise me you won't tell, okay? Promise? Good. Now, lean it, alright? A little closer. Good. Well, uhm, here it goes...I'm gay. I don't mean happy, I mean, like, I like boys. Simple as that. And no, it's not something to be ashamed of at all. I'm gay, and proud of it...I'm just not really ready to tell everyone yet, fair enough? You'll understand that, right? We all have our secrets. This is mine.

Anyway, this whole Championship thing. You're wondering why I'm doing it, right? Well, first off, I like hunting. My mother taught me to. When I was little, she'd bring me out to the forest, and show me just how to kill an animal quickly, so it won't suffer any pain. Her hands were the guiding hands that drew back the arrow on my bow, untied a knot in a snare, or tossed my spear high and far. See, she's an amazing mother, and I love her a lot. But, then of course, she was the one scolding me when I did wrong, or punishing me when I got a low score on a test or something like that. So forth springs that annoyance. Following me here? But, that reason isn't really the only one. See, I've got this sort of reputation at school for being all, gosh, I hate this word, but, manly. So, passing up an opportunity like this would give everyone a one way ticket to calling me a sissy. And who wants that? Not me.

Also, it meant I could get away from temptation, at least for a little while. And by temptation, I mean him. So, I decided to do it. And here I am, up at freaking 2 in the morning, yawning tiredly, as I silently got dressed. Every few minutes, I glanced at the huddled form in the bed across from mine. Luckily, he remained asleep until all my clothes were on. Slipping a picture of the family in my pocket, I hastily flattened my hair, although it was as usual, as flat as ever. The picture’s corner dug into my thigh, but I ignored it. We’d spent a fortune on it, for just one picture, from some merchant in town. I’m not sure why we did it. Perhaps for the satisfaction of seeing our newly united families, my mom and I, and Harold and James, happy, together. Who doesn’t wish they could freeze time?

I didn’t even let myself look at him as I tiptoed out of the room. I couldn’t let myself get wrapped up again, carried away. We were ignoring each other, acting like it never happened. Because it didn’t. Nothing happened between us. Nothing, got it?

I kissed my mother’s forehead in her bedroom, and she made a face in her sleep, but did not wake. I nodded at Harold’s snoring form. I liked him a lot, but we weren’t that close. It was like there was this soundproof glass in between us with no way around. Still, he made my mother happy, and that was good enough for me.

The air was chilly as I slipped out the front door, a kind of chill that reached through your skin, down to your very bone. I walked through the silent streets, under the cover of a half moon, which I found slightly depressing. It wasn’t long before the fence came into view, and so did the guards. Butterflies fluttered in my stomach. Why were there guards? Don’t older people intimidate you sometimes. They do to me. They act like they’re all better than me, and it can just kind of suck sometimes, right? Anyway, I figured the guards were there to check my invitation, which I flashed at them, before going on, past the gate, and into a building.

The first thing I saw were dead animals. Delightful, huh? No, I didn’t see the people, or the food, I saw the dead animals. Stuffed animals, to be exact. They were everywhere, leering from me throughout this entire room. A queasy feeling rose in my stomach and throat and I looked away. My mother had always told me to respect animals. They had feelings too. That I needed to kill them quickly, put them out of their misery, eat them and bury the bones, respectfully. Not stuff them and put them on display. Suddenly, a whole wave of doubts washed over me. What was I doing? I could always turn back right?

But, that would just make me a coward.

So, I stood there, awkwardly, surveying the scene. There were a few people there, and 9 were to be expected in total. Alright, I could do this, right? This was going to be easy. And with that newfound confidence, I strode forward, towards a girl, I was pretty sure I knew from school, with short blonde hair and freckles.

“Hey,” I said, putting my hands in my pockets, and stifling a yawn. “You’re Quistet, right?”

[sbeeg]

If there was one thing in the world I hated more than anything else- it would be letters. I don't usually get one but when I do I loath whoever sent it. How inconsiderate to send a letter to a blind girl! After hearing one had come for me, I immediately asked my father to read it aloud (like I was going to find out what it said any other way).

I may hate letters, but I'll let this one slide. At first, I had been so overjoyed at the prospect, I had unconsciously walked towards my father's smoother voice and stuck my hand out to feel the paper. It was the thick, official kind not the flimsy stuff most people use. I'm finally going to get the chance to show everyone in District Nine what I'm made of! The only thing my father had objected to was the waking up early, but my brother had obliged to wake me.

That night, I ended up pacing the length of my room over and over again unable to settle myself. When I finally did ease myself enough to climb into bed I started to think about all the other hidden meanings of the invitation. An insult it could very well be. Oh, let's throw that filthy blind girl into the mix to spice things up. Hadn't one of the Victors of the Hunger Games been blind? Arbor. That's it. He'd been her favorite until the Capitol fixed his eyes.

I had given up on the prospect of sleep and decided to get ready instead. It was my usual attire, nothing special. Pants, shirt, and my heavy coat that had once been my father's. It was much too big and I cut part of the sleeves and the hem to make it more to my liking. I wore it everyday, it seemed. That coat had gone on so many hunts with me.

I stepped outside into the night- the morning mist hadn't even begun to puncture the air. I was bare foot, as usual, and the road was chilly underneath my feet. Familiar ruts in the road told me where I was and got to the meeting place easy enough.

A voice called out to look at my invitation, I pulled the paper out of my pocket and was allowed to enter. I heard other contestants shuffling and the smell of food reached my nose. I edged my way over to it and flexed my fingertips out until they reached a plate. I was about to grab some delicacy when a loud voice diverted my attention.

"Good morning, everyone! Once everyone important has arrived, we will begin the speech concerning the tournament rules. Until then, please relax, have yourselves some food and drinks between our stuffed animals, and talk to some people - if you so wish. Thank you."

They had stuffed animals? Hm, I finished my quest for whatever food was on the plate in front of me, turns out it was a sandwich with turkey- or something like that. I think it was turkey, then again I'm not very well acquainted with the food of the higher class. Could have guessed squirrel though- I'd know squirrel anywhere. I turned around after shoving at least two of the sandwiches in my mouth. I wish I could seize up my opponents. Maybe if I look small and helpless they'll forget about me.

I listened to the room, there were the sounds of chewing but little talking. I heard a male voice say something near me, but not addressed to me.

"You’re Quistet, right?"

Hm, I know of at least two contestants, one named Quistet and one a boy that knows Quistet. Seems unfair really- everyone can make their assumptions but me. What can I go by? The guy's voice sounded tired?

That wasn't the point of the contest, the object was to hunt and as long as I kept that in mind I'd be fine.

[/size][/blockquote]

[HEY, ALEX!]

Perhaps getting up early affect some of the contestants. I hope so because, obviously, it didn’t affect me. I am a hunter. I was born for events such as this one. My father had been part of the competition a few times. He never won but he came close. But, like what many people say, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. So, the simple fact that my father had come close a few times does not really matter now does it? I am here to bring honor not only to my Ayers name but also to the group of hunters that still have their doubts in me. I have something to prove and I will not give up until I win this competition.

There were people to greet me, of course. Without any type of organization, the contest would not be worth the time. However, the Beastmaster is not like this because, well, it is appears organized to me. When I showed them my invitation, I also found myself speaking as if they should already know who I am. “I’m Lykainion Ayers.” They should learn my name since, well, that will me the name in which all that meat will be delivered to. Once at the gate, I waved at the guards.

I pulled on my jacket slightly, only wishing to pull it closer to my body. It wasn’t overwhelmingly cool but my nerves sent shivers down my delicate spine. Even my thin legs, dressed in tight pants (lose fitting would cause problems in the forest.), were shaking slightly. I could not quite grasp the concept on why I was nervous. This was just another hunting trip. If I lose, I would just be the same girl with the disabled brother. Nothing would change. However, if I was to die, well, my brother would not only be the boy with no useable legs but also the boy who’s sister died in a ridiculous way.

Once their I noticed the most of the contestants were around the same age as myself. Odd. Usually events, other than the Hunger Games, involved people of an older generation. Actually, when I signed up, I sort of expected to be the youngest in the competition, which would only bring more honor to my name if I was to win, Think out it. A sixteen year old girl beats a crowd of older, more experienced hunters could make quite the headline. But the possibility of being the youngest in these particular group was not looking so great.

I noticed the stuffed lion as soon as the loud speaker sounded. It was difficult to miss but I found a way to avoid its existence. Maybe it was the fact that I was only trying to keep my cool. I was in a crowd of people and I was sure some sick individuals was speaking negatively about me at this very moment. Well, actually, more of my brother but still. Messing with my brother was just as terrible as slapping me across my face. I half expected myself to lash out on the person next to myself any moment now. The person was innocent but it did not matter when I’m angry. Someone, not matter if they caused the emotion, would have to pay. However, there would not be anyone to take pain since I think that disqualify me. So, for now, I will take my anger out on the poor animals.

It was sort of a slap to the face to see the food and drinks appear for my eyes. My father never once mentioned they feed you here. Without the knowledge of so, I ate already at home. Damn it! But I would still fit a little food in my belly. Perhaps a piece of ham or perhaps some eggs. Surely they’d have some juice. I would only bring attention to myself if I was not to feast with the others.

[Entei]

Ruby looked around, most of the things around her were new. The people around her were new, except for Clyde. Everything was weird, except for the traditional stuff. She had a feeling that she could win the contest, but with all the other people around and not knowing their capabilities, she couldn’t say that for sure. The heat of the sun made her sit in the shade, the heat to her, was blistering. Though, it made her think of old hunting trips with her father, every summer she would go hunting with him. Her father would sing to her, and she would sing to him, it made her feel good and it still does. Everything was relaxing now. All the voices around her were muffled, Ruby was relaxed, but she really wanted to speak to Clyde again. She walked up to him, poked him and said
“Hey Clyde! I told you I was part of this too!”

Ruby meant to make him jump, but she didn’t pay attention to the way he responded.

[/justify][/size]

[Prince Inigo]

Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, to some degree. They were trying to strike up a conversation or relaxed their spirits with the food and beverages. In the early hours, people could still find ways to get comfortable. The sun was not even up; nearing the summer time, the king star would come sometime much before, but that was not now. Chilled winds were with the company now; darkness enveloped the area in a peaceful air, where many of the animals were prowling for their own hunt and foraging. Such was the life of a mammal - like humans.

Behind the north part of the fence, a figure's outline could be seen, hidden away from detection by the moon and the skin wrapped around his or her body. Strong as the lion displayed, the skin of this feral cat did not include the limbs but had the eyes of a ever-seeing killer. The bottom jaw was not there either, but the teeth of the top were still in, giving that monstrously hungry look. While the face of the person was disguised, if one had given a deeper stare, they could see the toothy smile glinting in the pale light.

"Are we all situated? I would hope so. I do love when my guests are all comfortable for what's to come," said the figure, in a booming voice. One of the receptionists ran up to the being and presented the sign-in sheet; and, when the eyes of the lion had looked at the clipboard, the smile grew even wider. "Wonderful news. We're just about ready to start. As such, I think it's time we... moved out."

Soon, the gates could be heard slamming fast and hard. The one smiling faces of the guards then turned sour, cold, and they had secured that the doors would not be opened any time in the future. Quickly, their faces contorted to that of mocking, silent laughter, showing their pearly smirks at the contestants that dared to attack them or attempt escape. A short guard, barely higher than an 10-year old child and concealed by a rabbit mask, started to cackle, watching the scene unfold.

Not a change happened for the figure in the lion's skin. Nothing in emotion or posture shifted, being perfectly straight and bold. "I'll see you all in a few hours. Night."

The receptionists had all gotten out of their seats and, behind the guards, held guns. Instead of chambers, the firearms had box-like projections on the side. Red beams marked themselves on the competitors in arms and necks; and, within seconds, darts flew into the fenced area, a myriad of darts. Each contained a tranquilizing liquid. No one would be able to escape this fate.

"Night. Till a few hours from now."

---

Circus cages were parked outside of the fenced area. As soon as the guards made sure all participants were asleep, they had started to haul the sleeping people inside the vehicles and stored away the fences. The figure in the lion skin walked around, inspecting the carriages with that glimmering smile, and had their hands interlocked behind their back. He had only stopped when he was approached by one of the guards, this one masked of a monkey.

"Polio, am I allowed to withdraw?"

The figure breathed in deeply, but they did not change their face. "Go. I only need my minions. Careful now, Aspergill."

With a nod, the monkey-masked being left with the rabbit-disguised guard.

Chuckle. "Charming lady she has become."

---

6AM. Now the sun had risen to full glory, shining bright and positively in the area. Birds could be heard in a most cacophonous manner, most awake. Though late spring, the birds still seemed to have contact with the bees in their courtship. Green and brown had bloomed from the darkness, the black banished until night would come again to draw the world to sleep. Here, the smells appeared to have become prominent from the hours, the odors of fresh pine and stink from feces beginning to make the forest change to a state of liveliness. Nothing was in the air to taste. Despite the king star presenting himself, the ground and surrounding continued to have a cold feeling.

Sleeping bodies littered in a new area of forest. In the current part of the forest still was the fence towering everyone like a giant. Other than the location, there was now a tall structure that rose even higher than the fences. It was a cylindrical building composed of white-painted bricks; at the top was a red flag flapping in the gentle wind. There was a spire for a roof, but just below the top was an open compartment for all to see the figure in the lion skin sitting on a throne of a chair, having his posture proper and polite while looking down at the napping folks. While there was another chair next to the being, no one was sitting in it. Not all of the room could see from any angle; but, from a side view, one could see a set of staircase going downwards. Without a door exiting inside the fence area, though, one could only speculate where the entrance and exit was. (Then again, the building was not fully enclosed by metal; half of the body was outside of the fence).

The figure in the lion skin, now revealed to be darker skinned, looked at a watch fastened around his wrist. Sigh. The being turned to a guard and spoke to them quietly. "They should be waking up soon. Switch on the chart, would ya?" Smirk. "They would be pleased with all the lovely faces we've got to show."

With a nod, the guard strutted over to a control panel. A few taps here and there, a series of projection lights came on from the trees and focused in on towards the center, about halfway up the building, hopefully enough for all to see upon their awakening. The chart that the figure spoke about formed quickly, and scenery could be see through the image, being of light opacity.

[atrb=border,0,true][th]
Contestant	**Today's Weight**	**Total Weight**
Lykainion Ayers	**N/A**	**N/A**
Clyde Cloversmith	**N/A**	**N/A**
Quistet Ementi	**N/A**	**N/A**
Ruby Falconer	**N/A**	**N/A**
Aaden Gorozine	**N/A**	**N/A**
Saskia Hamilton	**N/A**	**N/A**
Walker Ligens	**N/A**	**N/A**
Flaya Melisa	**N/A**	**N/A**
Jasik Miller	**N/A**	**N/A**
Thistle Pryderon	**N/A**	**N/A**

[/table][/center]

Another smirk came on the figure's face. "Soon, we begin. I'm dying of the anticipation. Heh."[/color][/justify][/size][/blockquote]




(I'm giving another week for everyone to submit their reactions to the current events before proceeding to Day 1 of the competition. Failing to not post now for anyone who still hasn't signed up will probably result in not being able to compete at all.

By the next post, rules and assigned critters will be given.)

[Spesh]

Walker Liggens

Actions/Thoughts: 66acbd
Speaking: 1b8787
Thoughts of Paraphilia: 40a89f

Once Walker got inside the cage, everything seemed like a blur to him. He was relaxing, eating some of the food, then the next second the door gets slammed shut and a creepy guy started to talk. The next thing that Walker could even remember was waking up in a completely different area, which still was fenced in, but still, completely different.

His body was sore from getting moved from place to place, chances are the people were not gentle about it. Clearly they were just trying to mess with everyone, trying to see who was not cut out for this competition. Walker knew that he was, despite the fact that he was just a teenager. But even if he was cut out to win the competition, the bruises that he suffered would not help him on his way to victory. He would be, in fact, quite debilitated because of them.

Looking at his surroundings, Walker was surprised to see his face on the screen. Then he noticed everyone else's face and what was next to them. Two columns, saying total weight and weight for the day. Walker thought that this reminded him of something very common, but he was not quite able to put his finger on it. It would hopefully come to his thoughts after a few minutes. Hopefully.

[sbeeg]

I have to say, the food is impeccable. I gorged myself, trying to put more weight on my skinny frame. Listening to the conversation buzzing around in the air, I remained attentive. When the talking died down I stood up straight, listening and jumping slightly when the booming voice ran down my ear.

An authoritative man was meeting his guests. Ah, this is our host. There was this twist in his voice that made my skin itch and my stomach to bunch up only to straighten right back out again.

"Move out" My spine held firm but I felt a cold sensation quiver in between the bones. A loud sharp sound of gates slamming caught my attention. Locked in. Trapped. Or maybe I'm just over reacting. I can't see what's going on, maybe someone just has clumsy hands and- a laugh rang out and my mind was on full alert. Code red... whatever red looked like. My breath was shallow and sweat had broken out on my skin, plastering fly away hairs to my forehead. I wiped the feeling away with a steady, but nervous hand. What was on that letter anyway? Did my parents skip a part?

"I'll see you all in a few hours. Night."

Night? I just got up. A cry escaped my lips as pain pierced the skin of my neck. My fingers flew up to it but never quite made it. I heard gasping noises- they may have been me, I don't know. I finally felt a hand on my neck- but my fingers were numb and flopped around the foreign object that held tight to my skin. Dropping to my knees, I gagged on the blindness my entire body now felt. I could have been floating in mid air right now and not even known it. I pulled out the... the dart. Yeah it was a dart. Maybe I got it out... I had my hand on it, didn't I? Oh, I felt like puking up all the food I had just gotten down. Is this happening to everyone? My cheek is against the ground and I...


What is this awful taste in my mouth? Gah, it's horrible, and my tongue feels like sandpaper. Rolling over, I feel earth beneath me and the tint of heat against my skin that signals that I'm outside. That was really all I could tell besides the insistent flapping of something- probably a flag. I struggle up to my feet, trying to make something out of the little information I have. Taking a few steps forward, my foot gets caught on something and I tumble forward over it back onto the ground. Reaching out, I identify it has a person- alive. They're warm and breathing. Another contestant?

God, where the hell am I?

[/blockquote]

[Rosetta]

Aaden Gorozine

I awake with a start from the sound of some bird chirping in my ear. Hadn’t I told James to close the window before we went to sleep? I attempted to roll out of bed, but when I did, I only met the same elevation on hard-packed soil. Wait, what? Opening my eyes, I found myself not in bed, like I hoped, but lying on the ground. The morning sun filtered into between the trees of the forest, and the cool morning air whispered across my skin. I shivered, and propped myself up on my elbows, and gasped.

The other contestants lay spread out around me, asleep, though some stirred. I wasn’t at home, I was in a forest! The Beastmaster! My neck stung, and my fingers probed at a small pin-prick on my skin that blood had dried around. Suddenly, hitting me like a train, I remembered. It had happened so quickly. There were shouts, cries, and a whir of color. But I couldn’t make out anything, it was all a blur. Don’t you hate that? Everything happens so fast, you don’t really know exactly what’s happening. Then, I felt sudden pain erupt in my neck, and before I knew it, the world was fading. Have you ever been knocked out? I know, right? Isn’t it a scary feeling? For those of you who don’t know, there’s much bemusement, disorientation, and you’re not sure where you are, who you are, and then it’s all gone, and you’re here. You’ve woken up here, in this forest, with all the other contestants around you.

I looked around the area. I could still see that fence. I’ve lived in the confines of a fence my whole life, it’s not anything new…but that tall building is…I squinted up at it, my heart racing, this suddenly not seeming like a good idea. I mean, they knocked us all out, and what? The guards have creepy masks now? Am I the only one feeling uncomfortable with this all?

In line of my vision, for the view of everyone, was a man on a throne. What is he, a king or something? It takes all my remaining strength not to laugh aloud at him. But, I already think better of it. This wasn’t right, not at all. This was supposed some sort of fun thing, right? What in the world was going on…?

Unexpectedly, on the building, a projection appeared. And I saw my face. My face! When did they get a freaking picture of me, and the other contestant, it seemed. I stared at it, mouth wide open, not fully understanding. This was getting way too weird for my taste. Why did I sign up for this? I slowly got to my feet, to sudden movement making my vision fade in and out, and I stumbled. I felt flesh underneath my feet, and quickly backed up, away from the hand I’d stepped on, but only managed to trip over another sleeping figure, and fall flat on my rear. Don’t laugh! It wasn’t as funny as it sounds. I scrambled to my knees, my cheeks burning. When I get embarrassed, my entire face looks like a cherry, it’s really awful. It’s like a got some kind of bad sunburn, and it doesn’t go away, not for a while!

Now, I was getting pretty irritated. Not only had I been knocked out, brought to some unfamiliar place in a freaking forest, had my face projected for all to see, and now I’ve been humiliated?! Things were not going my way! I was speaking before my brain had processed my words.

“Hey, what’s the big idea?!”

[apocalypse]

Clyde knew it wasn't his narcolepsy. He was clearly knocked out somehow, and he felt a slight pain on the back of his neck. He also learned a valuable lesson: hot-dogs and apple-juice are too things you do not want to be eating or drinking when you get knocked out. Why? Well, hot-dogs - the ketchup - can stain your shirt, especially if it's white. Apple-juice just makes you all wet and sticky, but those two together, they make it very annoying. At least when he woke up the sun was fully shining, it made him feel safe and secure. The only reason Clyde wasn't nervous was because all around him, he saw trees all around him, which meant he was in a forest, a place where he felt safe and secure. The part that bothered him the most? He was in a circus cage, which freaked him out a lot, circus cages reminded him of circus clowns, which scare him.

He could feel his face on a cold, metal surface, and it wasn't very comfortable nor comforting. He remembers a girl named Ruby - someone who he had seen before - trying to talk to him. “Hey Clyde! I told you I was part of this too!” He didn't get to respond to the girl, he felt a hand on his neck and all else was a blur, then he woke up in a cage. Looking at a projection, Clyde could see a number of faces, all of which were people in the contest. He was in the second row, probably because of his last name, Cloversmith. The thing looked familiar, but he couldn't put his finger on it. He just hoped it wasn't anything bad. He also decided that as pleasant as the metal cage was, he should get up and walk around, stretch out.

Hopefully there would be someone else who was feeling as scared and as nervous as he was.