Reasons to Live; Lessons to learn //Jack, Anatra, Cameo

[*]

J I N S R E V E N U E D I S T R I C T 2

◼ Ⅱ ▸ I keep my gaze around the gym. With each person in here, the conversation between me and Gala is going to be one that I really don't want to say within earshot of another. I think this makes the fifth training session that I've had with Gala since I met up with her in the cafeteria that day. Everything has been going well, so far. I've learned about her strengths. Weaknesses. She's becoming a little more welcoming to me, though I can't help but fight this feeling between us. She don't really trust me. There's something there that doesn't seem to really connect us in that fashion. No. That's because it's me. I know she can sense something isn't right, but I've played my cards right. I've done everything I can in order to make sure she will do what I need her to. Today. Kyanite is mine. I take to hitting the punching bag with my bare fists. With each hit, the skin takes another beating. Hit after hit, the pain becomes numbing and sends nothing but sensations of needles through my skin. I like it. The pain is welcoming in a way. It's a fuel to add to my fire and it's burning today. My sights are set and my plan is formulating in my head so easily. What I'll say to her. What she'll say to Gala when she sees me with Gala. Will she finally see I won't do her any harm? I just want her to be with me. Not that Matthew guy. My suspicions were correct about her dating again. The other day when I trained Gala, she told me, rather harshly, that Ky was with someone. It was only a matter of time now. "Five thirty nine. Six more minutes. Where are you Gala?" I question myself outloud and hit the bag three more times before finally giving up and grabbing up the water bottle. Clearly, I'm fuming because Gala's never late, not that she is right now, but being early will only satisfy my needs to make sure this comes together. Ky will be here shortly. It settles my mind just a bit to know that Gala won't go back on her word to get Ky here. Afterall, It's one trainer to another. With yet another heavy gulp of the water, I can't help but to place in order the conversation that we had that day. It wasn't exactly the way it should have happened, but in the end, it came together. My need to see Ky worked. Gala had agreed to asking Kyanite to meet me here to 'meet' her newest trainer. I smirk as some young girl stares over at me, but I don't give her the time of day. She adverts her gaze away from me, collects her things and walks out the door. With only a quick glance, I can see that there's only a few people here right now and they all seem to be getting ready to head out to lunch. "Okay. I guess I'll ask. I hear Gala's voice in my ears and it sends a flood of hightened emotions through me. She'll be here soon. With Gala around, she can't just walk away from me again. I won't let her. It's either me or the hard way. Either way, I win. Always have. Always will. I stand straight up, and walk over to the weapons stash, allowing my gaze to wash over the many knives and the blades. "Maybe, a different style of training for today?" template by chelsey

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Gala Thomas
Age: Thirteen 3/4
District: Two

It's true that it's impossible to miss anything you've never had. Now Gala's understanding that because before she's never lost friends. The struggle of losing her mother after she disappeared at least held the company of her sisters. For a short while they all were getting along to get through that rough patch together. Mischievous and trouble-making Gala never faded though and it didn't take long for her sisters to take the parenting role. Everything's changed from even that though, in less then a year time span to. Becoming a career brought many new experiences, all ranging between good and bad, but all worth it non the less. Now everything's going back to the old ways and not for the better, something Gala's not quite happy to see occurring.

Least this time around a friend actually occupies Gala's life for a change. Once Matthew returns from his academy, maybe she'll even have two. It's getting through this lonely period that's difficult. Distraction is key though, as she's managing to completely fill her time. For the most part her wounds and breaks have all healed, meaning there's nothing to hold her back. Each day is either packed with training as a career or practicing her trapeze act with Gwen. Even an occasional hangout goes on with Kyanite, something Gala never pictured herself doing but finds herself now loving.

"It's the weird guy I told you about, he's been training me a lot. Figured you should meet him." It completely slips Gala's mind that it was actually Liam's idea to have Kyanite along for one of their sessions. After all she did want them to meet eventually, get the approval from Ky since she is now an important person within the youngster's life. Just as expected she didn't even have an ounce of hesitation as she's more of a big sister to Gala then any of her actual ones. The time and place gets settled, and a bit of excitement actually fills the little career due to her lack of training with her older friend for quite some time.

Right on time Gala strolls into the gym as people begin leaving for lunch. Liam suggested the couple of hours when it'll be completely empty to give them all enough room. Sounds logical to her as she already prefers as few people as possible. Unlike most she's far from being a social butterfly, could even say the completely opposite. "What's the plan for today?" Just as usual she cuts straight to it as she joins Liam at the array of weapons. Well this should be fun. "Kyanite should be here any minute."

[*]

J I N S R E V E N U E D I S T R I C T 2

◼ Ⅱ ▸ A different style of training, I think so. Blades and knives would make for an interesting meeting, but I surely don't want to hurt her, nor her little friend. As long as Kya listens, it'll all be fine, right? I let my hand run over the many types of blades, and the stars. Every blade is open for use with nobody even near to watch over them and to make sure they get to put back or used correctly. I let a smile creep onto my lips as I pick up one of the smallest of the blades. Almost consealable withing the size of my palm. I pocket it and no sooner do I put the blade into my pocket, and reach out for another, I hear, from behind me, the voice of the girl I've been training. My facade of being happy around her needs to appear. A smile and welcoming attitude that only she has ever seen. I take my hand away from the blades and turn to greet her with a grin. "What's the plan for today? Kyanite should be here any moment." She tells me. Does she notice it? The way I smile? The way everything seems to be just an act while I'm around this kid? My internal excitement soars now that I know that Kyanite actually agreed to meet with her and me. It might actually work out. After today, Kyanite will have to change her views on me. I can be gentle; just ask Gala. She's seen me at my best. "G! You came." I hold out my fist towards her like I always have. It's a routine. It's the contact of skin to show that I'm her 'friend' or at least trying to be. After so many session with her, she probably don't even think about it. It's how I always greet her. That and I call her 'G'. Every little detail is so crucial. "The plan for today is going to be different. Have you ever worked with blades? I dunno what all Matthew has taught you, but have you done any fighting with blades or throwing them at all? I woudln't mind to show you a few techniques that I've learned. I think I may be the best one out there. Shhhh.... just don't tell Kyanite. I've heard she was the best, but she's the best female knife thrower, but I'm the better guy." I turn back to the blades and pull out from the cabinet a total number of five blades. They are heavy, with thick handles on them but the blades look thin and little. A disguise. Looks can always be deceiving. "Pick out your five. Weigh it in your hands and lets get to our studies, alright, G?" I leave her standing there with the weapons closet and go to the area closed off for throwing blades. They've put it back here for a simple reason. No person needs to be in the way, so there's only one way in and out to keep accidents from happening. Waiting on Gala, I take a quick peek in here. No one. Not a soul is around and it's quiet in this area. The knives in my hand are placed on the floor beside of me but one knife remains in my hand. I position it perfectly between my index finger and middle finger, closest to the knuckle; blade pointing up. With a flick of my wrist, the blade flies across the sky, cutting the air until it lands on the target, just a half of a centimeter into the targets red zone. template by chelsey

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Every single time it appears that Jins is a little surprised to see Gala show up. As if he's waiting for her to discover a secret that'll change her mind about him training her. She decides to take it as that she's now a sort of celebrity career after her short performance within the pregames. Maybe he's thinking she has trainer's knocking at her door with how many years she has left to become a successful victor. At least that's how she prefers to take it. Another weird knuckle punch is given, and by this point she gives no thought to it, the nickname though doesn't seem deserved. A couple of times Kyanite's titled her G, but Jins has no right to. Whatever though, the whole point is just getting some helpful tips out of the guy.

The longwinded Jins begins as he gives a mini-lecture on their plan for today. Just another thing Gala doesn't really like, but she's just one for few words. He questions if Matthew's ever taught her some knife training skills. No pause is given for her to answer though. Instead he continues on to Kyanite and his knowledge of her being the best knife thrower out there. Last time they trained he couldn't even remember her name, and now he knows all this information? Once again Gala simply ignores his odd ways. There's such a desire to object and protest Ky's ultimate talent over anyone else, after all that was how they first met. And maybe a couple of months ago she would, now she knows better though.

"I don't know she's pretty good..." A small denial of Jins being the best escapes Gala because it's impossible for her to not stick up for her few friends. There's no point in arguing when Kyanite will be here any second to prove this anyways. "We'll find out for sure though." She gives a sly grin upon her innocent face before turning her gaze over to the array of blades. This should be interesting, being trained by the supposed two best. Though Jins walks away with the larger options, Gala settles for the ones that suit her petite hand better. They're nearly twice as small as his, but it's talent that matters anyways. With that she follows him off to the secluded target practicing area.

Already he's showing off his skills before she has a chance to even step in. Surprisingly a smile does grow upon her face because he is pretty good, and learning those sort of things is Gala's main purpose of doing this. Without a word she does the same, setting four them aside for her first round. Predicting that he's going to need to know her current progress she goes in for her first throw. Before she joined it probably wouldn't of even stuck, or reach the target for that matter. After being trained by her two older friend, she has certainly improved. It's no where near the middle, or as good as Jins, but it's still decent.

[*]

J I N S R E V E N U E D I S T R I C T 2

◼ Ⅱ ▸ I never even noticed how Gala had snuck in when I put the blade between my fingers before letting the knife take off and cut the air as it sinks into the target without a hitch. I've learned much from watching Kyanite over the years. Her techniques are altered by my own ways. How every time she threw her knife, I would take note of it. Some of the more intrique ways she threw were not going to work for me, so I had to learn my own. It's only natural when someone is better than you, you aim to improve and surpass them, right? Me and her... we're the yin and yang of the knife throwing. "I don't know she's pretty good... We'll find out for sure though." I hear the words Gala said right before I left her at the weapons table, and here she is right beside me as she has seen my first hit. She don't even say a word to me. She just follows suit and lays her four down on the ground and immediately begins to challenge herself. Is she good? I'm all too curious cause if she isn't, then what's about to happen tonight might work out well. If she is skilled as Kya, then chances are, my luck will change cause she just might not let me work around Kya. Her first throw is almost a bullseye but far from it. I shake my head just slightly but display an approving look. "Almost good, Gala. Aim a little higher and visualize where the blade is goign to go. If you see the spot. You'll more likely to hit it. Did you look elsewhere before you threw it?" Bending down, I grab two more of the blades and adjust them right into the nook of my fingers. The index and middle finger gripping the edge of the handle with such a tight squeeze. I then look over to Gala. "Try it this way. It will give you a new way to handle the knives. Palm down. Fingers outward and place the knife between your index finger and your middle. Get it all the way to the back until it feels right, then curl your fingers downward and it'll seal the hold. When you get ready to launch, arch your wrist back then flick it foward and let go of the blade. Go it?" I show her by motioning what I want her to do. The blade in my hand, already set for the target, is thrust forward without a hit, and lands, once again, into the small red area located within the center of the target. I take the other knife and do the same within my other hand and with a quick jerk, it too finds itself in the target, but not in the center. A little lower, two rings down. "I'm still working on my left hand, but my right has impecible precision. You try it Gala. Okay? See if that method works in your favor." template by chelsey

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Honestly the hit sucked, and even Gala's able to admit that. Maybe she's decent for a career that only just started, but it's still far from being good. Clearly Jins is just trying to be nice as he visualizes one of her weaknesses for the first time. Good thing she didn't make into the second round in the pregames, where weapons were involved and there for there's a need for good aim. If ever reaped she's heading for the deadliest thing to swing around because that's obviously going to be her strongest suit. "No, I was looking at the target." Because clearly that's the right answer to where her eyes should of been trained. Honestly she's unable to remember as her entire concentration was upon just doing decent.

The lesson begins as Jins demonstrates a new strategy to gripping the weapon. Before Gala simply held it the way it help comfortable, within the palm of her hand where she feels the most control. Experimenting with different ways is needed though and she gives it shot. It's a bit awkward as she adjusts her fingers properly, thankful that she grabbed the tinniest knifes because anything bigger she wouldn't be able to do such a thing with. "Yeah, I think." She's more of a visual learner then anything else as his words seem to be a jumbled mess within her brain. Anyone else would understand within an instant, though they'd probably already be better at their knife throwing skills to begin with.

Watching will be better, and Gala keeps her eyes focused upon his hand and blade as if her life depended on it. It's the fact that he also demonstrates it in his left hand that really does the trick for her. Being left handed it's difficult to constantly reverse everything as the majority of people are all righties. Even if Jins doesn't do as good of a job with his less dominant side it still gives her a better understanding. She switches the grip between her fingers a bit and the discomfort slightly minimizes. It's only due to the fact that her hands desperately needs a growth spurt, along with the rest of her body. His words travel through the air again before she's able to give this strategy a try.

A small awkward chuckle escapes Gala as Jins uses that famous term of things being in someone's favor. Seems so ironic, yet people tend to use it a lot. To her it's a joke, but it's apparently not to some. "Alright." Gala agrees with a simple one word as she often does. Sometimes she has a lot to say, more likely around the ones she knows better, though it's still an occasional thing even then. With the approval to go she gives the different method a try, mimicking exactly as Jins did to the best of her ability. It must of been the demonstration with both hands that helped her. Of course it doesn't hit the red area, but it still greatly improves from the throw she did only moments ago. "Yeah, it's okay." She allows a small grin to spread across her cheeks, reaching for another one with knowledge that it's only practice that makes perfect.

[*]

J I N S R E V E N U E D I S T R I C T 2

◼ Ⅱ ▸ Show and tell followed by practice. That's the only way she's ever going to get good. It is, without a doubt, a skill that Gala could certainly use one day and I'm curious if she'll really ever be ready for the games. She's so small and quite dainty at first glance. Her thin body has barely even reached her growing stage. Shouldn't she be taller? Stronger? My gaze goes straight to the door that is the pathway in and out of this area. Kyanite should be here already. Maybe she's running late? I feel my blood begin to boil. My gaze darkens just slightly as I watch the little girl line up to throw the knives just as I had shown her how to work the new method I'm tring to teach her. She's lied to me. Kyanite's not coming. If she was, she would have already been here. Kya's usually never late for anything. Ever. A heavy sigh is followed by the clearing of my throat. My demonstration of how to deal with throwing the knife is matched by her voice with a simple "Alright". She takes the motions I told her and she places the knife in between her fingers and curls her digits down around the hilt of the blade. I cross my arms over my body, and watch her method. She seems hesitant at first, I can tell, because it's something new. She's unsure about the blade in her hand. I can read her face like a book. Then, she throws it. Time stands still. I don't know why I'm this excited when all of this is basically staged with no real concern whether or not she improves or fails. I've aleady excelled in ways that she will never know, but I let a smile creep onto my face when her blade hits right below the center. "Yeah, it's okay." Comes her immediate reply when she sees that the blade didn't go where she wanted it too, but the simple fact of the matter is, she improved. The trainer in me is brought out as compliments and praise come outwardly to her. "G! AWESOME! See. You will have this down in no time." I move in to give her a quick, brief hug. My arm reaches around her back, letting my hand rest on her arm and I pull her quickly to me in a friendly gesture. "That was great. With a little more time..." A voice rings out suddenly. A females voice that carries throughout the vacant training area. The voice isn't scared nor happy. The only thing I hear in the voice is pure anger as I realize who it belongs to. Kyanite! I turn to meet with Kyanite's gaze, letting her see this decieving, wicked grin on my face with my arms around her little friend. Gala couldn't have had better luck than ever to have improved so suddenly. What perfect timing. "Kya! Baby!" I let the words fly out of my mouth without even realizing it. Though, Kya seemsm to have caught the words and the horror stricken face is what I get. Those eyes aren't aimed at me. They are aimed at Gala. "Wh... What the HELL are you doing with him?" I hear Kya come out with. She points at me the moment that she says the word 'him'. It's almost like she's damning me to hell for just standing here with her friend. Though, when I look over to Gala, I shrug my shoulders quickly. "Maybe she thinks I am someone else?" I taunt internally. Gala knows me as Liam. Which is truely logical seeing as how it is my name. My middle name. Though, all Kyanite knows is my first name. "Who else did you expect?" I bite back at her attitude. My fingers twitch suddenly, as I keep the grip on Gala's arm. template by chelsey

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Improvement, that's always the important part when it comes to training. The new method turns out to not be half bad as it does follow closer to Gala's aim. Not near being perfect, but it's better then she ever expected. Even Liam gives an approving congratulations as he prevents her from grabbing another knife with a sort of half hug. It's awkward to say the least, but then again she's gotten used to how strange he is by now. After going from her first couple of friends being Matthew and Kyanite, it's an odd adjustment but one she's getting used to. Who knows what other types of characters are lingering around these halls. As much as she'd love to pull away from his unwanted grasp, she decides to try to go for the friendly route. After all Ky was the one to suggest not judging people by their cover, and this guy is far from read.

"Yeah." Gala agrees subtly to Liam's praise of her having this down in no time. It would be awfully cool to be able to throw at Kyanite's able to, even more so to impress her older friend with it. Of course he has to continue with his words, though this time his words actually fade out to the sound of someone else's. Instinctively her head turns along with his, along with a slight movement of their bodies as he keeps his hold upon her shoulder. Gala on the other hand keeps her arms lazily at her side, affection's not really her thing and especially towards someone she hardly knows.

Usually a large smile will form across the youngster's face at the sight of Kyanite, but as soon as their eyes lock is clear that she's not happy. Maybe she's had a rough day? Seconds later the truth unfolds as Liam greets her as if they've known each other forever. There's no doubt within Gala's mind that he acted as if he hardly knew Ky when he talked about her last time they trained. Hell he even pretended to forget her name, though it's pliantly clear that they've met before by the sound of his words. Why would he lie? More importantly though is that look upon Kyanite's face, which she assumes is from the unwanted title of baby. More is discovered as the older female's mouth opens with an angry question of what Gala was doing with him. It's too obvious now that something's up.

Immediately Liam responds with the suggestion that Kyanite's mistaken him for someone else. That to is obviously wrong, and instinctively Gala attempts to get distance between her and the guy she found strange this entire time. Instead his large hand doesn't even allow for her to budge though. More then ever it's bluntly clear that something's up. "This is Liam, the guy I told you about..." A baffled and concerned look covers her expression, but her words hope for a misunderstanding.

"Who else did you expect?"

At that moment Gala's heart drops to the pit on her stomach. What has she done? Even without any other dialogue she's able to tell that she's placed Kyanite in a horrible position. She could ever careless if she's the one closest to the freak that she had an instinct not to trust. The fact is that Kyanite's upset, and surprisingly that's the last thing Gala wants. Before she could careless about making people angry, now though it's much different. "What?" She's as confused as ever as she attempts to get all the pieces in place. There's a loss for words though, with only a desperation to understand what was happening.

[*]

K Y A N I T E R U Z E D I S T R I C T 2

◼ Ⅱ ▸ The usual lunch time, I find, becomes rather boring as Matthew is back at the peacekeeper academy for the final week. Once again, I'm stuck between doing nothing while everyone's life is going about their normals routines. I flex my fingers up and down, extend out my healing elbow and bring it back to a comfortable position. It still aches from time to time, but for the most part, just about two more weeks I'll go back to get this brace signed off on. Hopefully, at least. Maybe by then, Matthew and I will be able to go swim or something for real without the need to keep this thing dry. I shift in my seat and look up at the clock on the wall and sigh. Only then, do I realize something really, super important. Something that I never should have let slip from my mind because it involves my best friend. "Gala... Shit!" I immediatly dump the half eaten tray that I was only toying with and go back to the chair to gather my things quickly. I only have enough time to stop by my locker for a moment and deposite my things in it. I shut the locker door quickly and make a break for it, heading down the hallway. Crap. How could I forget. I hope Gala isn't going to be mad at me. I told her when she asked that I'd be there for her. She offered for me to meet him and here I am late. How did I manage to be late? I pass by a few students in the hallway that looked as though they'd been training for some time, but with a passing glance and a smile, they don't ask for a social conversation. I reach the doors to the training center and open the door quickly, my eyes scanning the machines for where Gala and her trainer, Liam, would be. My first thought was that I was too late, but checking the clock on the wall here, it says the same thing as it did in the cafeteria. I put a supporting arm undeer my brace and walk fully in now. Then, I hear talking. It's definately Gala's small voice I hear, but the guy's voice I hear don't ring a bell. Was it suppose to? I follow the sound of her voice and reach the back of the gym, where the closed off portion is for those wishing to try out anything with aim, be it arrows, knives or anything of the sort. This is where to go when you want to have total control and let loose a barage of attacks against the dummies or targets. A Thunk! comes from inside when I hear something make contact with one of the targets. Without even going in, I know that it has to be Gala. She's the one who said to meet her here and her trainer, so without a worry, I open the door. Shock. Paralyzng Fear. Anger. I stop in my step the moment I see Gala in front of me with some guys arm around her petite body. Some guy with dark hair, a tall body and the exact image of my worst enemy. I would be blind to not know what he looks like from all angles considering his image has been in my nightmares for the past two weeks. I've seen him all too well. I feel my cheeks grow cold and nothing but a paralyzing cold chill runs down my entire back. Liquid ice runs through my veins. The man turns, his cold eyes locking right onto me. I can see right through that happy facade I just walked in to. What I can't seem to put together is why Gala is hugging him? A hug? I get nothing but bruises and pain. How is he being gentle with her? What if he's turns his sights on someone else after so long? What if he's hurting Gala and I never knew about it? Gala! I'M SORRY! "Kya! Baby!" He makes me cringe when he calls me that. "Wh... What the HELL are you doing with him." I practically scream out the curse word at Gala. I don't want to think of the opposite reason she'd be with him. All together they might be in cahoots with each other. Planning my demise? Hoping to bring me down? Should I even be mad at Gala? "This is Liam, the guy I told you about..." Her expression says it all. Relief washes over my soul. I trust Gala with my life and by what she said, I know that she has no clue what demon she's hanging out with. But it also occurs to me that she said 'Liam. "Liam? No!" I turn the phrase into two words when he asks me if I had been expecting someone else. Yes? Of course I did. From what I understood, Gala's trainer was a little weird and creepy. At least she got that right. If only she knew how dangerous he really was. If only I had showed him to her sooner. "What?" Comes her innocent words yet again. As if the poison is wanting to kill me right now, I let his name slip out of my mouth like foam from a rabid animal. "That is Jins. Gala... He's lied to you." Hot acid burns through my body as it fuels me. My heart shuts down. My brain takes over pulling all of my muscles of my legs and I immediately charge at Jins because he's refused to let Gala go. "You get away from her, you hear me? STAY AWAY FROM GALA!" I take my good arm, and try to dislodge his arm from her, my arm being pushed against his chest. He budges quite easily by letting Gala go, pushing her away just slightly. His next movement has him grabbing for my arm so I can't shove him again. His other hand immediately grabs onto my healing arm, and jerking it inward into my stomach. A shooting pain appears. "You really don't have a say so about what I can and can't do, do you, Kya-baby?" He says in such a devilsh tone. I hate the way he uses my name. I hate everything that it is about him. I turn to look at Gala quickly. "Gala... get out of here. Now." I state, since he's not only let go, but seems to dismiss her even being there. His right arm wraps around my body, pinning my healing arm in between us. "Let me train her. Please? I can be gentle. I can be anything you want me to be. I am your boyfriend, afterall." template by chelsey

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

There's a lot that Gala's witnessed in her short life, but angry Kyanite is not one of them. The older career has been scared, happy, and crying in front of her yet this is an emotion she has yet to experience. Maybe she actually has. It's completely impossible to tell when it seems to be directed at her though, as if being scolded for being with a friend her sisters have denied her from seeing. Yup, she's seen that look before. Upon Kyanite's face it's much different though, as fear and confusion reflects on her as well. If only Gala knew what she had gotten herself into, instead she hopes that her stuttered words gets across her innocence.

It all clicks together when Kyanite declares that the guy Gala came to know as Liam is only a lie. Everything's determined to be a setup without anything else being said, she's smart enough to realize that. If only she was smart enough to not get them in this situation to begin with. Desperation comes upon her young features as she's staring up at Ky for direction. Before the information is even given she has put two and two together that the guy squeezing her is most likely the only enemy her older friend's ever talked about. Every emotion is retaliated to Gala as she's fully aware of the danger she's caused. This is her childhood bully Jins, wanting nothing more then revenge most likely.

Suddenly, cast and all, Kyanite comes charging towards Jins, who luckily didn't hold Gala in front of him. Demands join in as it's clear the Brunette's taking full responsibility in the older sisterly protection mood. There's such a need to tear up and smile all at the same time because no one's stood up for her like that since Matthew and Ky saved her from that group of careers. It's even more emotional now with the more personal situation occurring. She's easily shoved away and it's now her friend that's in the grasp of the scary guy.

Of course the automatic response is to lunge forward and attack, and at first that's exactly what Gala does. Before she reaches them she halts herself though, trying to take in the knowledge she's learned from the two closest to her. As much as her strength is useful, she's still tiny, and going in without a strategy's just destined for failure. There's no time for planning as their words distract her young mind from focusing. A taunt from Jins erupts as he declares that Kyanite's unable to tell him to to do, and once again adds in that nickname that even annoys Gala. It's not even directed towards her, yet she wants to claw his throat out just because of it. Or maybe it's the fact he has one of the only people she cares about within a painful grasp.

"No." For the first time Gala denies taking orders from Kyanite, one of the only two she's actually willing to listen to. This time her request is unreasonable though. There's no way in hell that Gala was going to possibly leave at a time like this. Certainly it's logical to go run and get help, but she's also smart enough to know what time it is. By the time she'd actually reach someone, who knows what Jins could do to her friend. It just wasn't going to happen. And before anyone has a chance to object the creep himself has to open his mouth once more.

This Jins dude is far from crazy now. It's safe to say he may be mentally insane. For some odd reason he has the nerve to title himself as Kyanite's boyfriend, and even Gala gets offended by his statement. As if she'd ever let him train her again. There's nothing capable of holding her back after those words, and with desperation she digs her decently long nails into the arms captivating someone very important to her. She takes it as a life and death situation as she attempts to help.

"No you're not!" Gala protests along with her struggle. Of course it's not going to be enough though, because Jins is much too determined. Kyanite's in the way of doing any other real sort of damage, but something else has to be done. The closest weapons towards her is one of the large knifes that he picked out, but it'll have to due. With everything she has she quickly snatches it and holds it up to her newly found enemy. "Let go of her!"

[*]

J I N S R E V E N U E D I S T R I C T 2

◼ Ⅱ ▸ "This is Jins. Gala... He's lied to you." Aww. How sweet. She's trying to let her friend know who I really am, while telling her that I lied to her? That can't be. I am Liam. I've not lied to Gala at all. No matter what she says, she's the real con artist. Not me. She's the one living a lie and all I want is for her to be with me and she needs to be with me. There's no question about it. She's just never given 'us' a chance, but no matter what she wants to think, I'll always be her boyfriend. That pack we made when we were eight is unbreakable, no matter how hard she tries to discontinue it. She makes a break for it and it's toward me. I have the opportunity now. She's running to me. She's finally come to her senses. Gala, on the other hand, is another matter. Her use is done with. With a shove, she's out of my hands the moment Kyanite actually tries to hit me. A gruff noise comes out with the force she knocked into me, but she's weakened because of the cast on her arm. I grin. I can't beleive she would risk her safety like this? The only way to keep her from hurting herself is to hold her. My arm wraps around her body close, and pulling her tightly against me to keep her from thrashing around. Obviously, she's got issues with allowing her friends being around others; so it seems. "you really don't have a say so about what I can and can't do, do you, Kya-baby?" I let my voice come out in a deeper tone. She don't like me being around her friends, and I don't like her hanging around other guys. It's as simple as that though. I'm not ready to compromise, so there is no deal. No solution. It's only my way. For a moment, I totally forget her little friend until Kyanite tells her to run. I shake my head and click my tongue. Her friends responce is even more satisfying. She wants to play. "No." I laugh. I come out with a grand bout of laughter as the child tries to puff herself up in front of me and Kya almost like shes some sort of weakling that makes herself look big. Like a tiny career trying too hard. The only thing that I can think of is to try to calm Kyanite, who seems to be trying to get out of my arms. I don't want her to hurt herself again. The brace on her arm is hard enough to see. "Let me train her. Please? I can be gentle. I can be anything you want me to be. I am your boyfriend, afterall." I can see her stop in her tracks. That look of fear so evident on her face. She knows what I'm talking about. She knows what I mean. Our deal will never be broken. "Kya... I lo..." I whisper into her ear but Gala's voice breaks my words up quickly. I don't know how her squeaky voice actually makes me draw my attention away from Kyanite's shocked features to what I was about to tell her and I feel her struggle again to get out of my arms, so once again, I use my arm to hold her even tighter, eliciting a small scream from Kya. Then She lunges for me. Either way, it's not appriciated and right now, I don't care. She's in the way. She's trying to split us up just as soon as Kyanite has only gotten into my arms. My blood begins to boil, rushing through my veins and penetrating muscles quickly as her fingernails dig into the skin of my arm. For only a moment, I loosen my grin on Kyanite, but regain my hold quickly. "No you're not!" Her words make me hiss out in pain, the blood pooling to the surface from where her nails just dug deep into my skin. "GALA! You bitch! I thought we were friends? I thought you were my trainee? You've got to be shitting me? After everything I've done for you?" I growl out and look to my arm again, seeing the blood on the surface of my arm. Damnit... little viper. My sights set on Gala again as Kyanite steps on my foot with her heel. As much as it pains my toes, I don't let go. I can't. "Let go of her!" She yells at me. Again. Laughter. "You're just a weakling, Gala. Honestly. You think any amount of training will ever do you any good? Twice... you were in the first round. Twice you lost. You ever think that being a career isn't your thing? Try... sewing. It will suit your delicate needs better. So eager to have praise. You are pitiful." I degrade her with every fiber of my being. She was my ticket to get to Kyanite, now her use is done. She's spunky though. I'll give her that. "Kyanite... make her leave. Please? I want to tell you something very important, but I can't with her being here." I coo and release her one arm with my hand and bring my hand under her chin, squeezing tightly so she can't move her sights away. Then my voice raises up for Gala to hear my threat. "Do it.... or I'll kill her." "G... Gala... please. Just go..." template by chelsey

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

If theres's one thing that Gala knows it's that her trainer is dedicated to Kyanite. No matter what Matthew will always be the one that trained Gala originally. And him and Ky belong together in her young eyes. Seeing the grasp that Jins holds upon her friend is disturbing and unwelcoming. There's still the difference of size as she stands well below the both of them. Running away to get help is out of the question though. It's now or never and she goes forward with hopes of causing damage. Strength given her size is still to her advantage, even if it's low compared to what she's up against. There's still a chance, and she's has to take it. It's the scream from Ky that fuels her rampage for blood, wanting to take upon the protection always given to her.

Red streaks results from the sharp nails she's grown since quitting the habit of biting them off. There's no better sight as she fines satisfaction in her retaliation. After all the lies, now knowing that this is Kyanite's bully, Jins deserves even more payback. Still release isn't given as the grasp tightens around her captured friend. Words echo through the empty gym as Gala reaches for further protection, a weapon. After everything he still expects a kind reaction from the youngster. Too bad that she automatically takes Kyanite's side when it comes to anything. From the beginning she found this guy to be creepy, and now it's only confirmed that he's actually in fact evil. How he could possibly think that Gala would take his side after this is beyond her understanding. She's easily influenced, yet she's able to read him like a book now. Deny anything he might try to convince.

The knife fits awkwardly within her tiny left hand as she's used to unarmed fighting. When it comes to aiming, she fails. Maybe not so much when it comes to the weapon being secured in her hands though. With this position the weapon doesn't even need to leave her hand to cause damage. There's hardly any distances between her and the opponent. As if now would be any different, a load of words leave his mouth. This time it's harshness though as he gives everything he has to destroy Gala with his words.

Everything that Gala gave up, and the information given through the pregames, suddenly is used against her. When she first met Liam it was completely different as he treated her like a celebrity. All of that turns into revenge as he uses it to dig into the most sensitive of areas. After two chance at the first round she still blew it, though it was impossible to win to the ultimate Kyanite. Of course the failure still dawns on her today, and even more so as light in shined onto it. Somehow she sucks up the sorrow his words create. So she's far from the best career, but her few friends convinced her of the success she's accomplished from it thus far. Now it really lingers upon her thoughts. Before she already knew of her failure, but it's different as it's actually vocalized. But as much as she'd love to feel pity over these comments she has to stay strong.

As sarcastic as innocent Gala's able to be, she falls silent as she absorbs the insults Jins has given her. The difficult part is the fact that it's all completely true. As good of a trainer as Matthew and Kyanite are, she still fails at anything aside from showing off her amazing strength compared to the thirteen year olds of any gender. When it comes to defeating someone much larger she fails, and hopefully it's only due to her short experience of being a career. Just as any other strong career would do she holds her blade securely in the grasp of her left hand, in hopes of cause a threat. Sure his words burn deep within her heart, but he doesn't need to know that. With lack of a word or budge of her knife she keeps her stern position.

Now there's a demand to go as the anger within Jins grows like a wild fire. By now it's sort of obvious where Gala stands, as she refuses to budge from her stance. Stupidly she has gotten Kyanite and herself within this position, she wasn't going to run from it as well. As if she'd ever run from her friend being in danger anyways. Was he threatening to kill her or Ky if she didn't leave? Didn't matter because she's not exiting, nor is any harm going to be done if she's able to help it. This time a request from Ky is given again for Gala to leave. The youngster only shakes her head slightly. After all of this time was she really expected to give in that easily? Especially with a weapon equipped within her palm.

"I said let go of her!" Gala finds more power embracing her then ever before as an instinct to protect kicks in. The large blade within her hand holds her complete concentration for a change. With the mission only involving the freedom of her friend, her knife goes directly towards the thing keeping the hostage. There's hardly been any friends within the young career's life, so the only two are of course given great importance to her. A need to cause as little damage as possible still controls her mind as she only gives a nice slash upon Jins's forearm. Not even an ounce of guilt is felt though as she's fully aware that he deserves it. As if there was anyway that she was actually going to leave. No, she's going to fight.

[*]

K Y A N I T E R U Z E D I S T R I C T 2

◼ Ⅱ ▸ There. In the corner. There's the small table in the corner that I once would walk to. It isn't big. Not in the least. Just enough to place a certain amount of knives on when you're not working with them. Just a simple place and right now, that's all I can focus on with the way that Jins' arm is pushing me closer to him. To hold me nearer to him. I can feel him all over my body. There's no way to get away and the way he's got my arm in between, it's pulling the healing parts making sharp pains peirce my arm and up into my shoulder. I don't cry, nor do I grimace, but I keep still because I need to focus. I need to make it so that he won't push any harder cause if he does, he'll hear me cry out. It's taking everything I've got not to do that now. I want out of his grasp so much. I want to be free and to help Gala. I want her to get away but she refused. "Kya... I lo..." No! He won't! Matthew has already beaten him to it. Matthew has already given me that phrase and with the thought that he was about to say it to me has my expression widening with uncertainty. Though, the phrase is broken in half. Gala's voice breaks through the hold that Jins has on me. He looks over to her and I feel it's my time to get out of his arms. So, I push against his body with my arm that's in the middle of us trying to give myself any sort of leverage to get away or to drop out of his grasp, but he suddenly squeezes tighter. White hot pain shoots past my shoulder and racks my entire body and I finally scream out. I can't handle this anymore. Just let me go... please. I beg you... I cry out mentally and clinch my eyes shut hoping for the pain to disappear. From one moment to the next, something amazing happens. Ding! Something is set off in Gala that I've never seen before. Not in the games nor any other time when the group of guys attacked. This time, I can sense the courage that's leaking through her existance and somehow it's pulling into me for a brief moment when Gala's fingernails dig right into Jins' skin. Can I get free? CAn this be the moment that I can pull out of his grasp? No. Even with the blood that is staining his skin from Gala's nails, he barely gives me any sort of relief and keep his hold on me. Not even when I dig my heels into his feet. He merely passes it off. And so my legs begin to weaken the longer he keeps me tied to him. Even Gala is doing everything she needs to in order to help me. Jins just won't be consoled. He curses her. Then degrades her entire training career. He takes such a low blow to her selfconscious and I feel nothing but remorse for what it is that I've done to her already. First, Vy has to endure his fist and words and now Gala. There's a reason why I dont tell people about my own life. There's a reason I don't share things like this. If I do... people get hurt. People I love. My heart begins to break just thinking that Gala is having to endure this. To see this. To watch what I've dealt with for years. It's not right. "Kyanite. Make her leave. Please? I want to tell you something very important, but I can't with her being here." He says with such a sickening voice. Just the tone of it makes me cringe and from one second to the next, my chin is in his hand and I'm being forced to look at him. I advert my gaze and get a tight pinch to my lower jaw. "Do it... or I'll kill her." The threat. The words that makes my heart burst. I don't want him to harm her at all. I'm at my end. I can't go on with this anymore. He wins. Like always, he wins. "G...Gala... please. Just go..." I beg my friend with a shaky voice. She can't seem my face, but a single tear falls from my eye and I let my head drop onto Jins' chest cause I have no where else to place it. He takes that as a sign that I've become submissive to him, when really, I will do anything to save Gala. He makes an audible sound that one would make to a baby whose become loveable. A simple 'aww' escapes his mouth and I realize what I've done. If only Gala... "I said let go of her!" Gala's voice screams outward. I lift my head up, crane my neck so that I can see what's going on. A fraction of a second later, I see her make a bee line for Jins, with a knife in her hands. "GALA... No!" I scream out but it's too late. Her blade pushes outward and cuts into Jins skin on the arm that's holding me. I feel nothing, but Jins on the other hand, bellows outward in pain. A jerk. A push. A kick. I find myself being flung against the wall nearest me, my back making contact with something in the way. I fall. Numbness runs through my body so I lay still a moment when I hear Jins yell out. "You are dead, Gala. DEAD!" I start to push myself off the ground, watching the scene unfold in front of me. Jins pulls something out of his pocket and flings it in Gala's direction then takes off in a mad dash for the little career. "GALA.... NO!" template by chelsey

[Cameo {RIP Charlie}]

Acting all courageous and strong controls most of Gala's actions as she appears to stand well put together. When it comes to proving herself she's on top of her game and her words are as cocky as ever. There's hardly anything she'll stand down to even, which seems to put her more into trouble then anything though. The truth of the matter is the fact that only Ky and Matt have witnessed the truth. As good of a show that she puts on she was unable to raise her chin to the group of careers that attacked her. Fear controlled her as she completely relied upon the protection of the strangers she now calls close friends. Perhaps she's grown a lot since then, or the situation is just that much different. A grin fills her chubby cheeks as she stares at the spots of blood underneath her fingernails, though it quickly fades at the lack of loosening arms upon her friend.

By this point nothing's going to stop Gala, or have her running away. As much as Kyanite begs, and Jins threatens, she's not risking what could happen in the time span of getting help. Not with the position she currently holds as she's the one armed with a weapon. She was the one stupid and naive enough to get them into this situation, she's unable to bring herself around to being scared. Currently she holds the upper hand to, and with that knowledge she's dashing forward with intent of causing harm. Clearly he's not going to give up that easily, and hopefully a nice slash will establish how serious the little one is. If he's so content with refusal to do it willingly, she'll force him to back off.

Exactly what Gala was planning folds out in front of her. The main purpose was freeing Kyanite, and though he does it quiet violently, it does happen. How could she even possibly hope that he wouldn't retaliate in such a way? At least her friend is away from him as she's tossed off like a rag doll. It's all too painful to even watch as she's forced into one of those small tables along with the wall. She's upon the floor and it's obvious that Gala's job is yet to be completed. Luckily the anger is now directed towards her, and she has the weapon and ability to escape.

Still her heart drops to the pit of her stomach at the sound of Jins's new threat. Death. With a gulp her eyes fall upon Kyanite who's still retrieving from the floor. There has to be someone around here that's capable of helping, and if she brings along Jins there'll be no need for concern over Ky. Good thing that Gala's better with running then aiming...well at least she used to be. Before she's off she has to make sure that her little friend will certainly be following her. A knife is thrown her way as she considers how to do so. He sets it up himself though and she's able to slide just a couple of inches to dodge the flying knife. Clearly he's only used to still targets.

With that success Gala goes further to taunt him by sticking out her tongue as if they were children playing tag. Now there's no way in hell that he'll be sticking around as revenge must be filling him. Seconds later she's off in a flash, her eyes gazing behind her every so often to make sure he stays on her trail. Just as planned he's following though. Of course it doesn't lay out perfectly as the reminder that she's no longer speedy burns her lungs. Ever since the surgery she's found a struggle in anything that gets her out of breathe. Adrenalin supports her though as it pushes her along further then she's ever achieved since the games. Before she'd be able to keep this fast pace up for an hour, but now she finds a desperate grasp for air as she peers behind her to notice she's gotten a nice distances between them.

A corner later she's sliding into the door closest to her, assuming that anything's better then the open hallways. Maybe she lost him. It's hard to tell but he'll certainly catch her if she doesn't get a hold of her breathing. Just a second, though she may need longer as her ribs are extending and contracting as if they were racing as well. She presses her back against the walls only to gaze upon the one wrong room. The blue that matches her eyes sparkles in front of her as she's stumbled upon the large pool room. This is the last place to get caught in, but even that doesn't matter as she's still struggling with her breathe. Might as well go in for a hiding spot. She tangles through the bars supporting the bleachers, fairly familiar with them as her circus contains the same thing. Only the slight splash of the water and Gala's breathing interrupts the silence. She clutches onto knife for good luck, her eyes darting back and forth between the tad bit of blood drying upon the blade, the door, and that stupidly large amount of water.

[*]

K Y A N I T E R U Z E D I S T R I C T 2

◼ Ⅱ ▸ "GALA... NO!" My voice comes out the moment I watch everything through blurred vision. My back tingles, sending these little signals throughout my body of my need to stay still in order to rest. If only I had that luxury at this very moment. It all seems a terrible waste of time to just lay here watching as my best friend gets the anger from Jins directed toward her. I can't move though. My body feels too much pain and in the corner of my eye, I can see the table that is now laying onthe floor beside me and I see the debris off the table of a few weapons people have refused to put back where they go. Now, they lay littered next to my body. I can't help but moan slightly with the movements I make to get up. What pain radiates throughout my body. It's a great fuel to have though. Watching the scene in front of me scares me to death. "You are dead, Gala. DEAD!" Jins' words penetrate my head again when he suddenly pulls out a concealed knife in his pocket and launches it toward Gala. He's seriously. He's actually serious that he's going to kill her. My head goes down to the ground for a moment, and I push myself up with my good hand but when I look to see where Jins and Gala are, they are nowhere to be found. "Gala..." I grab one of the weapons that fell from the table. They are simple small knives. Dulled at the ends. They must be practice knives, but they can still cut and penetrate skin if need be. I push off from the fallen table and feel the weakness in one of my legs that seems to sting with pain. He kicked me... I think. What he did when he flung me to the side is all just a jumbled mess within my head. It's crazy how things like that can happen in just the blink of an eye and have no memory of it. I use the wall for support and make my way to the office here in the gym, and enter the door after taking a few quick shoves against the thing. It opens and I reach for the phone immediately, phoning the academy knowing Matthew will be there. I didn't want to involve him last weekend with the news of Jins. I figured I could handle it myself; me or Vy. I was wrong. He's gotten worse and for some reason I can't imagine why. He's been gone for so long but maybe that's the reason? I've gotten used to Matthew and a man's gentle nature against me that right now, Jins has reawakened that fear that's been instilled in me. The numbers are dialed. The telephone rings as I hold my hand against my stomach. A sickening feeling overcoming my current situation. "Peacekeeper Soulen. How may I direct your call?" Comes the man's voice over the phone and it dons on me that I'd have to call Matthew out of class. Is it worth it? what if he gets reprimanded for it? What if he refuses the phone call? "I really need to speak to Matthew Dunham." I say. "I'm sorry, Miss. Cadet Dunham is out on assignment. You're welcome to leave a message. If not, just call bac..." "Vy. Vy Pryce. It's a family emergency. Please - Hurry." I state and the man only makes a hushed noise then the line goes dead for a moment. In my current state, I feel nothing but my limbs shaking. My fingers jerk around like I'm having a fit. Though, I move around to keep my back from paining me as I try to sit still. It don't work. Then there's a sound of the phone being picked up and I hear Vy's sweet voice. A friend. My voice quakes as she waits for my response. "Brittany? What's wrong?" "Vy..." "Kyanite, what's wrong?" "Vy... I'm in trouble" "Where are you?" "The training center. Jins... he..." I pause a minute in my words and groan as I think I hear someone nearing. A second later, I continue. "Get MAtthew. Please! I have to go. He's going to kill her. Hurry!" I get off the phone and a moment later, without getting up, I remember one other person that might be able to come. It's a long shot and definately not one that Matthew will like at all, but I do it anyways. If it gets Gala the help she needs, I won't hesitate, but will he be ready to help me? I put the phone to my ear after pushing those buttons I need to in order to reach the one person I'm dreading to speak with since I let him go last week when I had walked out on him. It wasn't my fault. Friendship wasn't something he wanted. If he can help anyone... he's my best bet since I have no way to reach Matthew. The ringing ends and a light voice comes on the phone in the form of a sigh. Quickly, I hear the voice and I break down. "Max. Please... don't hang up. I... I'm in danger. You said you helped others... my friend, he's going to kill her." template by chelsey