The Hunger Games: The Luxury Of Death

CHAPTER 3 - THE PARADE

It was time for the parade, and Alyssa, along with their stylist, had meticulously taken care of the outfits. Elizabeth found herself adorned in a long, light blue dress. The sleeves were adorned with small holes, reminiscent of a fishing net, giving the ensemble a subtle nod to District 4's specialty. However, the dress felt uncomfortably tight, making Elizabeth feel like she was suffocating in its constriction.

Around her neck, a golden necklace embraced her, featuring engravings of fishes that catch the light as she moves. Her long, blonde hair is half up, secured in a wavy ribbon bow—a personal touch she insisted on. Ribbons have always been a familiar accessory for her. Her lips were painted a delicate shade of pink, and her green eyes popped with the addition of subtle blue makeup.

In stark contrast to Elizabeth's attire, Asher stood adorned in a bold and distinct ensemble. His shirt was crafted from a see-through net material. The transparency of the fabric added an intriguing element to his outfit. Paired with this, he wore metallic blue pants.

Asher's eyes were accentuated with blue makeup, creating a striking and mesmerizing effect. The subtle shimmer around his eyes enhanced the overall aquatic theme. As he walked alongside Elizabeth, the duo presented a visual harmony, representing the sea.

As Elizabeth observed the other tributes preparing to board the chariots, a kaleidoscope of colors unfolded before her. Some tributes adorned themselves in solemn black, while others opted for bold red hues. However, not all outfits met Elizabeth's aesthetic standards; she couldn't help but deem some as terribly ugly in her eyes.

Despite the diverse array of styles around her, Elizabeth had never felt prettier in her carefully crafted light blue dress, adorned with intricate fishnet-like patterns.

However, amidst the excitement and the thrill of the parade, a growing sense of terror gnawed at Elizabeth. The prospect of being seen and judged by thousands of people in the Capitol, each with their own expectations and critiques, left her feeling vulnerable and exposed.

Alyssa approached Elizabeth with a warm smile, her eyes reflecting approval. "Beth, you look absolutely beautiful. Trust me, people are going to love you out there."

Elizabeth met Alyssa's gaze, nervousness in her eyes. "I hope so. It's just... it feels overwhelming."

As they spoke, Finnick entered the room, and his steps faltered as he caught sight of Elizabeth. His eyes widened in genuine surprise and admiration. "Wow," he uttered, momentarily taken aback. "Alyssa, you've outdone yourself. Beth, you look... incredible."

Elizabeth blushed at the unexpected compliment from Finnick, her uncertainty momentarily replaced by a sense of validation. "Thank you," she replied, a shy smile playing on her lips.

Alyssa nodded in agreement. "See? You're going to make quite an impression out there. Just hold your head high, and let them see.

Asher, joining Alyssa and Finnick, couldn't help but express his admiration as well. "Beth, you look amazing. Everyone out there is going to be jealous."

He extended his hand towards Elizabeth, a friendly gesture to lead her onto the chariot. However, before she could take his hand, Finnick intervened. "Remember. Play the part."

Elizabeth met Finnick's gaze and nodded. Suppressing her nerves, she gracefully took Asher's offered hand with a soft smile. As they prepared to step onto the chariot, Elizabeth braced herself for the grand spectacle that awaited—the dazzling lights, the deafening cheers, and the critical eyes of the Capitol, all demanding a performance that went beyond the simplicity of who she truly was.

As the distinctive Hunger Games music began to play, a wave of anticipation and nervousness washed over Elizabeth. The rhythmic beats seemed to synchronize with the quickening pace of her heart, and a sudden dizziness threatened to overwhelm her. Asher, sensing her unease, steadied her with a reassuring touch and encouraging words, helping her regain focus amidst the whirlwind of emotions.