How can I be Mean? (Lamina x Female oc)

The Attack (Ch 7)

            The truck jerks back and forth on the bumpy road as it carries the tributes toward the arena. Vale and Lamina interwind their fingers together, finding solace in the small comfort. Mizzen sits on the other side of Vale, his head resting on her shoulder, as they all try to forget what awaits them. Despite the looming dread, the three tributes share a silent moment, taking in the world outside and trying to hold onto the little moments of peace amidst the chaos.

            As the truck comes to a screeching halt, the tributes are jolted forward, causing them to bump into each other. Mizzen's face is filled with fear while Lamina's grip on Vale's hand tightens, seeking comfort and reassurance. Before Vale can say anything to calm them down, the doors of the truck swing open, and the peacekeepers start shouting orders at the tributes. The peacekeepers demand that the tributes exit the truck and quickly line up according to their respective districts. The tense atmosphere is palpable.

            The tributes are anxiously waiting in line, shifting their weight from foot to foot as they anticipate the arrival of their mentors. Suddenly, Festus approaches Vale, holding a bottle of water and something wrapped in brown paper. 

            "I realized you probably haven't had anything to eat or drink," he says emotionless, handing the two items to Vale. Vale gratefully accepts the offerings, feeling a sense of relief wash over her as she takes a sip of the cool water. 

            The group continues to wait for Lucy Gray and Reaper's mentors. The minutes seem to stretch on endlessly. Finally, Lucy Gray's mentor arrives, but there's no sign of Reaper's mentor. The mentors exchange worried glances, wondering what could have delayed Clemensia. Even the peacekeepers begin to grow impatient, their faces betraying a hint of frustration. Finally, they decide to lead the group into the building, leaving behind any hopes of Reaper's mentor's arrival.

            The entrance to the arena is shrouded in darkness, with only the faint glow of dim red lights illuminating the path. Vale's heart races as she hears a voice call out from ahead of her, beckoning her to "enjoy the show" as she passes through the turnstile. The voice mixes with the sounds of Dill coughing and the echoes of footsteps, creating an eerie atmosphere.

            As Vale continues down the path, she enters a vast empty area, except for rows and rows of seats that are all unoccupied. It's clear that this used to be a place where grand shows were put on, but now it's just a shadow of its former self, a hollow shell of what it once was.

            Suddenly, Festus commands Vale to follow him, instructing a woman to turn the camera on Vale. Vale squints as the woman shines a blinding light in her eyes, trying to keep her composure and maintain a facade of ruthlessness as she stares into the camera without breaking contact.

            As the group steps into the arena, the gates slam shut behind them, startling Vale. The sound of whirring machinery fills the air, and the covers of the windows start to lift, allowing the bright sun to pour in. Vale takes in her surroundings, realizing that there is no place to hide or escape.

            A voice booms over the speakers, announcing, "Welcome to the arena for the 10th annual Hunger Games. Tributes and mentors, you have 15 minutes to survey the space and discuss strategy." Vale looks around, feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin.

           Festus approaches and says, "I found some tributes for you to partner with. I spoke to Tanner and Trench's mentors, and they agreed. Head over there and plan your strategy with them." Vale hesitates for a moment before noticing Tanner, Treech, and Mizzen gathered together.

            Vale approached the group and initiated a conversation, "Hey, so I guess our mentors want us to team up?" She handed over the water bottle given by Festus to Mizzen, gesturing him to take a sip.