Kap's Favorite Posts

[Kaplan]

Hello everyone! As I want everyone to appreciate each other’s writing, as well as their own, I’ve handpicked my favorite posts from each Runner for each day/event, starting with the bloodbath <3 I hope you enjoy!

Bloodbath

Lorenza Aita
"Lorenza was prepared, adrenaline coursing through her veins. She stood ready, the chill of the place running over her. She glanced around at the other runners, trying to determine her target last-minute. It was time. The gong sounded, and Lorenza bolted."

Braylon Yandelle
"”Alright, kid, so I’ve heard you think you’re a God,” I said. ”Tell me, do Gods feel pain?”"

Laia Alexandrite
"What do these people want? To live? Die? I'll kill them all! Off with their heads!"

Alexzander Thomas
"A God's name labels him. A daring nature motivates him. A death wish is only that I hear singing from him. Immediately I charge a return attack his way. He doesn't realize that nothing, not even a faux wannabe God, frighten me."

Wilma Monroe
"I want to find my brother. I have to find him. to make sure he lives. I want to die to make sure he lives."

Wentworth Monroe
"Silent tears rolls down my face as I drop to my knees unable to do anything. My entire body aches, and my heart rips in half. I don't know what to even do anymore. Her killer ran, and I don't have the strength to follow. I don't have the strength to find him - I wish he would've killed me instead. It's my fucking fault she's on the ground. It's my fucking fault that won't stand up. I place her head on my lap stroking through her hair. I fuck it all up. I always have and I always will.

"Wilma, I'm so fucking sorry."

I don't do anything, and those left would be doing me a huge favor if they would just kill me.

"I'm so fucking sorry.""

Kaydence Aqua
"The end of the line is nearing. Slowly but surely the mass are fleeing or dying. The bullies of the playground remain high and strong however, with me being one of them. One by one we must force them to leave to flourish in the reward. Which one to chase after next? Perhaps a tiny rodent that dared to touch me before. "

Dragon Jinx
"Salem spoke to Dragon before he left, and Dragon nodded. He knew what he had to do, and approached Wentworth.

"I'm really sorry. Do you want to be with her? I can help... I lost my brother... I know how it is. That's how I felt, until I was able to take out my rage here in the Maze." Without waiting for an answer, as the sobbing boy may not end up giving one before it was too late, Dragon swung his clawed fist."

Hera Leopold
"The queen appears at the start. Her hand quaintly going to her face, to suck on her index nail, biting off the length in one simple movement. "Well, here goes nothing. Ready gods and goddesses?" She questions and then takes the upcoming challenge with very little stride. "

Kendrick Amoria
"Fear riddles me beyond comprehension. Death licks across my tongue, and I'm unsure if it's the taste of my own or others. Either way standing still will ignite no shelter. Noelle will protect me. My deceased Sister is looking over me. And somehow my wobbly legs go forth. "

Charlie Smith
"Eyes pierce onto the One that's ballsy enough to damage my porcelain skin. Of course it has to be One of Noelle's minions. "Control your Toddlers!" I demand to the Mother of the smalls. Though it's unlikely she'll grace me with her presence in some hidden corner, I still refrain from her Youngster - and turn my attentions towards another from a Career District. Threats must perish, even if she might not really be a Career. I'll gladly kiss away her wounds I'm creating later if she wishes. "

Chance Volturi
""Guys? Can we talk about this?" Chance darted into the maze, running between two of the younger girls, one of them hitting some older girl. He shook his head. He turned to some other guy his age. "Yikes. Bitches be brutal. You know, but I gotta make sure you don't turn on them...""

Athena Sconoscuito
"The pathetic piece of District Eleven dares to touch me. A laugh mockingly crumbles from my lips, as I slowly turn towards her. "Ballsy move, little girl." I taunt her, while my rusted chain prepares to strike. "Bad idea.""

Zeus Prank
"I was being hit and I felt bones break. It was time to fight for real, now. I saw a young tribute nearby, and lashed out. I hate kids."

Charlene Rossins
"Her feet step on the ground as the moon dances in her wake. She glances up and grins to the blood red moon, willing it to let her have first blood. Nothing better than making sure she gets to have the first death on her hand?

"One for the MONEY. Two for the SHOW. Three to make dead... and here we go!""

Raiden Llyod
"I don't know what to do. People are dying, so many have fled. "Should we put him out of his misery?" I ask not knowing what to do listening to the words being spoken. My heart aches for him, and all I can do is stand there and watch. I'm really sorry for all that's happened, but I'm not ready to die, and in the end only one can win.

I slowly make my way over to him, and I grab one of the unicorn horns I'm holding onto;

"I'm sorry, man, but I know it's not enough, and it will never be enough." I sit down beside him and place my head on his shoulder and start crying with him.

"If you want to die, all you have to do is say, and we'll make it happen.""

Tina LaRue
""Run fast. Run faster then the rest of them. Run past your enemies. Run to the items. Run... Run Tina. These other runners have nothing to go back home to. You have your baby brother." She chants in whispers and she takes off like she did in the minimazes. She was fast. She had gotten one of the best scores because of her refusal to give in to the horrors of what may be to come.

She eyes the others that she sees and then turns her vision back to the front. Focusing on where she's going."

Salem Fysco
"The sight of such a childish boy crying over his sister's stolen soul is almost too tempting for me to let go. Alas, my allies are leaving and alone I can't risk the chance the others won't assault me if I stay alone. Might as well leave the crying creature to their devices. My eyes look directly at Dragon "Remember only one of us gets to live, do yourself and him a favor. I know I would.""

Lucy Yolei
"She responds to me. Her voice calls me over to her. I run to her, dodging everyone else in my way as I run up to her, hugging her. "I found you.. thank God. listen, I'm getting out of here... Please.. my love... Follow me. We mustn't wait." I move, pulling her arm to follow me, but she doesn't budge.

"Go Red!""

Marrick Cystalis
"Like a stampede thundering footsteps force themselves into the moonlit landscape. Above us an eyes as red as our blood beats down upon our skin. I swear I hear my Ma's voice... how is it possible? While I'm running I feel my world spinning and slipping in ways I never expected it could. Could this really be happening? Am I really racing through the mists of murder towards a fate in which my throat is slit or my head is taken? Either way I have to enter, my Ma is waiting for me when my time is terminated."

Magnolia Tansy
"It's the day of the bloodbath, and I'm scared to death. I don't know what to do, but I have get ready to run. It's cold, and I'm shivering. I don't know where I can go. I just wanna cry right now. Maybe even pee my pants."

Horus Zontini
"Horus had always thought of himself as a God. Now was just a time to prove it."

Noelle Vangart
"Ice spindles spill down my spine as his skin splits and he slumps to her side. The chain slips from my hands slithering like a snake to the sodden soil. Hair of many locks keep me safe from viewing eyes while treacherous tears tear across my cheeks. Were my children watching? Were my siblings looking at me with understanding or with revulsion? At the very least do they know that I did it all for them? My hands cover my eyes as the curses spill from my eyes. I wonder if Pierce felt like this when he snapped the neck of Wilma resulting in my murdering of Wentworth, of course he probably didn't. I pull myself up from the ashes of the battle and force away the troubles of my tears.

Slowly I move towards the sleeping child I left to finish the fight, I pull him into my arms again cooing quietly. "Sleep easy Kenny, Masilee is on her way to get you now. I'll miss you." A gentle kiss laps across his forehead. I turn to find my basket and with a free hand fill it with the supplies I need. I even make another for Tina, she needs the support as well. I pull the heavy packages onto my arms as I begin to walk away from the war, at least Kenny is sleeping softly in my arms.

A golden gateway greets my eyes as I stop for a moment by a tree. Hands heave away ground until blisters and blood is what covers my hands, at least the grave is good enough for him. I slide him inside pouring the soil over top him slowly as what would be the sun sets. I make a cross of stones over the spoiled soil. "Goodnight my little prince." A new sound comes into the symphony of sorrow from the sky, a sound of sponsorship.

The name Noelle is written on a simple note but the package is rather large, perhaps a new weapon for one of us to wield? My heart stops at the site of a red sloth cute as day smiling up at me. Water warms the corner of my eyes as I lift him onto my back for safe security. "I've got you Kenny, and this time I'm never letting go.""

Pierce Vilamanix
"A snarl spits from my teeth at the mammoth before me, fucking idiot. I'll show him something that makes every person tremble, my hands. Too bad he won't be trembling in the way he wants. "Let me give you a real taste of my love then big boy!""

[Kaplan]

Day One

Lorenza Aita
"Their group had mostly escaped the bloodbath unscathed. There wasn't much damage done to them, and they all made it out alive, from what Za-Za could see. She figured they would be temporarily safe, but she was completely wrong. As the group was passing through a rather thick part of the woods, things started to get a bit more threatening. All of a sudden, they were swarmed by small dragons.

The first two dragons were taken down by Salem and Kaydence respectively, and rather quickly at that. The one that attacked Lorenza would need to be struck, she knew that. It just meant that it was up to her to attack it. It was unfortunate that the creature was so cute. Perhaps the fact that it was so vicious would make up for killing it."

Braylon Yandelle
"I walked in the lead of my alliance, which had one less soul than it did prior. Making our way down the red path I'd selected when I fled from the bloodbath not too far prior, we eventually came across a large cottage. At first, I wasn't sure which was the more pathetic decision; going in to protect myself, or staying outside to protect myself. That was, until Pierce spoke. His declaration was that he was going to enter, and would judge those that didn't. It wasn't that I didn't want to be judged- I didn't care about that. Instead, I just wanted to do the thing that would take more guts.

The girl known as Lucy, who was a bit younger than I, seemed anxious to go inside. Although, I couldn't tell if she was wanting to go in for safety or to explore. I smirked. It was an interesting situation. I just hoped it was the right choice, going inside. If something was in there, ready to kill us, Pierce would be to blame, and I wouldn't be happy. No one likes to see me when I'm angry."

Alexzander Thomas
"There’s nothing but silence that carries the gruesome walk of post-battle. Gifts had been granted to our privilege, yet still no voices reign the surrounding. It’s as though it’s the awkward first day of school, and long lost friends have reunited - only to discover they’re far different from each other now. Though this isn’t a classroom and friends are not to be made, solely alliances until time no longer permits such. Father would expect me to follow in this, to be the true Career that he’s raised me to be. Yet the urge to enjoy a little lighthearted fun while the chance still lingers tempts at my core.

The debate of what to do continues to rumble through my thoughts. Though before I conjure up a decision, let alone a tactic to easing up this group, tiny intruders swarm our way. The wounds they deliver is unbelievable for such little things - as one even crumbles Chance from his feet. Wide eyes of mine stare at them, taking a moment to realize the cute buzzer flying around me. It’s far too simple to keep his tail from striking me; though it’s evident they can be vicious by the inflections they grace upon the others. There’s an urge to assist them, and leaving my petite opponent to figure it’s shit out before trying again - but I can’t risk what potential it has stored within. The Rugrat must be destroyed before I have a chance to retrieve to demolishing another."

Kaydence Aqua
"Sorrow craves to seep into the soil of my soul, just as the massive roots of these vast trees around have overtaken the path ahead. Gloom sprinkles down the leafs of the nature canopy above. Even a weeping fog riddles the entire journey around us. Yet sympathy doesn’t carve into my core as it should, as it would if I was to have done such a horrific thing back home - even if it were purely by accident. But what I had achieved was no accident. A victor allowance of one has plagued the Runners of this year, forcing me to numbingly shrug off the unforgivable act I have done. Just as Lightning said, even my alliance must perish for me to live. Trust no one, and I don’t even trust myself.

A scanning glance observes the group surrounding me. Within no time the Capitol has rained their adoration upon us, and already the battle wounds have been repaired across our exteriors. Despite the madness of the opening bloodshed, I’m nearly certain I noticed that we’re the sole clan that made it out completely intact. Not one of our spirits have been stolen to be taken to another realm; leaving me to consider, is this a blessing or a curse? My Brother’s words continue to replay like a skipping tape - trust no one, only I can live.

Sure enough the grace of our solitude does not remain in permanent ink. The alert is brief, the quickest alarm of petite flapping wings approach us. And before any of us are granted a chance to even respond in a protective stance, they strike us. A slice penetrates my legs, but just like my interior - I’m scarcely able to feel the sensation of it. A Comrade crumbles to floor in agony, and I barely register the incident. All that matter is conquering to the end myself, and I absolutely hate myself for it… Though my true self from back home does take play somehow as I automatically claw for the little pest that brutally harmed my Allie, rather then the thing that went after me. Perhaps there is hope for me yet…perhaps."

Dragon Jinx
"As Tina retreated into the cottage, Dragon didn't even have a moment to try to stop her. Locks clicked and he knew she was trapped inside. He couldn't, however, try to break into the house right then, as those outside had their own danger approaching. The growls of the bear had finally come close enough to reveal the beast itself. Before Dragon could lunge to attack it and fight it off, however, it made the first move. The bear hit Raiden, and adrenaline started pumping through Dragon's veins.

"Oh no you don't!" Dragon shouted, lunging out at the large bear."

Hera Leopold
"Hera's arm throbbed. Blood surfaced coating her arm and the sight of it made her even more queasy, but the fear of her ally took over. She watched as his ear had been severed and a paralyzing fear seemed to cave her. "Please.. don't die like them!" She begged as the fearie once again tried to attack her, but she raised her hands, moving quickly to deflect the attack.

She stood, running over to Zeus and before she could say anything else to him, the pixie wasn't far from death, but she had to finish what she started."

Charlie Smith
"Laughter pierces through my lips from Pierce’s assumption of poisonous baked goodies. The chuckles rupture louder from Braylon’s prediction of looking ridiculous from the helmet he’s received from sponsorship - it’s true, he looks like a ridiculous half knight that this half ass story maze needs. Tears of giggles spring to my eyes from Lucy’s crazed idea of staying here, as if she desires to permanently reside within this demonic fairytale. Cramps begin to ignite in my stomach due to my cackling, like i’ve gone as mad as Lucy’s words… anything to distract me from considering what Noelle’s currently being swallowed in. Is she okay?

Instantly I shake my head from the thought of her, and absorb myself back in my chuckles. Until a canon rumbles through the air, and silence violently follows it. Was that… This time I force myself to crack up, and concentrate on the surreal ridiculousness of this place. “Wanna call it a home, and start popping out some Toddlers with me then Lucy?” I wink at her playfully, determined to keep my mind consumed by the Beauties surrounding me. Plenty of fun to be had with all of these Sexinesses about. No point in thinking about her…and that canon…please just don’t be in the anthem tonight.

The boys devise crafting a trap with these potentially poisonous pastries. How funny would it be if they actually weren’t dangerous? A captivating brownie scoops into my hand, and I can still feel the warmth of it seeping against my skin as if it were just taken from the oven only ten minutes before. “Should I take a bite, & test it out? Who knows, maybe they’re just laced with something fun.” The crumbs of it nearly brush against my lips, until I throw it back into the basket. “I’d rather just beat everyone to the end of this shit hole. Fuck making traps, and playing house.” A humorous tone intertwines with my impatient desire, before I turn towards the door in a craving to get out of here… and back to her."

Chance Volturi
" Chance's life was always full of chivalry. Even though it was masked, he felt that sooner or later, it would come out. The exterior of being a badass comedian yet in teh shadows he was really a good guy. His mind flashed back to the little kid he volunteered for. How the mother and young child woudn't loose their precious cargo.

Distracted, the dragons up ahead came out of nowhere. Each one attacking one another, but it was like a feirce pain in his back to know that something happened that was wrong. A crack permitted his ears to hear it over and over again. The audible crack of pressure forcfully jerking his body forward and to the ground in a heap as his mind was completely stunned, unable to move for several moments.

"What.. happened." His breath was gone.

His eyes whirled with dizziness upon focusing with force. He couldn't feel his legs at all. He couldn't even feel his hips. He balled up a fist, hitting his leg as hard as possible, but a fuzzy dead tingle is the only thing that could be felt.

"I can't... move my legs." His luck had ran out. He was out of chances. Instead, he knew that death was upon him, but his alliance was still in danger. He could die later, but they needed help."

Zeus Prank
"I was somewhat surprised by how quickly the pretty girl could move, and how protective she was of me. She was sweet towards me; no one had ever cared enough about me to be like that before. My family has too many children for my parents to give me attention, and my siblings certainly don't care. Even my triplet siblings that were born alongside me, Zero and Zecora, don't seem to pay very much attention to what I'm up to. I'd begun to wonder if they cared when I volunteered at the reaping.

When Hera took down the second fairy, I breathed a sigh of relief. My hand was covering the bleeding, gaping hole where my ear once was, as it as the only way to stop the bleeding. I was getting a bit dizzy due to the blood loss, so I sat down on the ground to take a few deep breaths, and my eyes went up to Hera.

"Thank you for that. You saved me," I told her. "I really appreciate it. I've never seen someone care about me like that before..." I trailed off, not wanting to get too emotional. I'm Zeus Prank. I'm not a very emotional person most of the time.

When I stood back up from fixing up my wounds, I looked at Hera. It was sudden, and I wasn't sure what came over me, but before I knew it, my arms were around her in a hug. Had I ever even hugged someone before? I couldn't be sure."

Raiden Llyod
"Tina runs straight for the cottage stating she's quick, and that she has a flashlight. I don't know what to do, but I couldn't follow because I didn't get a chance. Noelle is screaming her name telling her to wait, but even I know it can't be undone. The loud clicking of the locks reaches my ears, and I want to save her. But before anything else can happen, something sharp slashes across the side of my face. Blood gushes from open wound painting the grass an ugly red.

I can hear Tina pounding on the door shouting wondering what's going on.

Noelle asks if I'm okay.

Tina is shouting my name.

All I want to do is pass out and pretend I don't exist anymore. The realization that it all can happen is slowly crashing down.

Dragon shouts at the bear.

Nothing is making since. My ears are ringing, and I grip a unicorn horn. Every part of my being is locked in fear. I can't let this ugly thing kill me because I have no desire to become a meal.

I can't bring myself to speak, so I nod my head as fast as I can. I'm okay, I think, but then the sound of a cannon firing makes me more and more anxious. People are dying, and I'm going to end up one of them if I'm not careful.

But I have to attack and fight because Noelle, Dragon, and Tina are all counting on me."

Tina LaRue
"The old rusted chains connected to teh blade never leave her hands. It is heldfast with a tight grip. Her mind completely on two different scenes in front of her, both visual and audible. Danger lurks around every corner and her alliance seems to not understand what could be readily awaiting to kill them at any possible moment. However, the conversations alike, she feels the need to see what's inside despite the groups decision.

"Guys. I'm fast... I'm small. I had one of the best minimaze scores. You three are staying out here, but we need to know if something inside is useful. Tis best not to waste more than one person though..." She tries to persuade them, but it don't seem that they can be persuaded at all. Fear doesn't make her wait or stutter. She steps away from the group. Her heart is racing against her chest. She feels her fingers tingling with what she's about to do, but she just has to know.

"You three keep a lookout. I'll be right back. Call if anything happens and I'll be right back to help. I have a flashlight. I'll be fine! Wait for me." She tells them. There's no use in wasting an unexplored area."

Salem Fysco
"Fog furls over the reaching fingers of the weeping willows while our footsteps fumble along the roots of the route. The red rivers of light barely linger through the leaking leaves by the time our steps finally cease. Panting pulsates from my lips as I struggle to secure air within my restless lunges. In a second I am searching for my water but hesitation holds me back from indulging in such delight. There might come a time when I need the water more than I do now. A sigh shuts the lid to the basket and I look back to my surrounding allies.

Few words are spoken while we rest riddled in the darkness of our destination. Several silver sponsorships sail down from the swaying shadows we know as our captivity. I waste no time in applying the needle to my skin while grimacing in subtle shock. Many times have such monstrosities stung the skin of my spirit but for some reason now I am being pained by the persistence of my reality in the Maze. No matter, I will conquer this Maze and allow my power to prevail for all of Panem to witness first hand.

Shaking shadows spur noises of some creation in who's origin I'm vastly uncertain. In a matter of moments my blade is blinding against its bleak background still stained by the scarlet stream it stole from the girl from Seven. I smile in sweet embrace of our enemies' swarm.

Warmth ruptures lightly from my right arm but my attention is apprehended upon Chance. In a single swift strike he falls to the floor unable to spur movement within his frozen extremities. . Any fooling around prior to this unwelcomed party is thrown through a metaphoric window as fire is fueling the power pulsing from inside my body. "Chance hold on! We have to kill these creatures if we are going to help him!" I waste no more time in striking. With my blade I shall spur spirits to eternal rest."

Lucy Yolei
"My intellect was telling me inside was safer. In every story my parents ever told me, you need to find a safe place inside a house. Four walls to keep out the bad, but I refuse to believe that what is inside would kill me. The growls from outside was what I was more worried about. There could be anything inside to protect us, if need be.

I enter the cottage, and so does teh rest of them. Charlie has her own way, and I find my independance for the time being to explore the beauty of the cottage's secrets. Perice seems more interested in the goodies that lay on the table. So fresh and pristine as if someone just put them there for them while the rest of the house was old and delapitated and ready for a housekeeper to clean the unused place.

I move away from the rest, exploring the door that goes to a bedroom. My eyes light up to see the bedroom. I look back for a moment advising them of their ill choise. "That isn't safe... I don't think. I'd rather eat the dust, then trust something like that."

Like that, my attention is brought back to the light switch that doesn't work and I walk over to the dresser and wipe my finger on the old mirror. A smudge appears and I can see my eyes shining through that one swipe. "This house is pretty! Dirty, but pretty! I wanna stay here!" I claim, as if it was safe. I pick up an old mirror on the dresser's surface, leaving behind the exact shape of it. I blow it off and smile into the reflection.

I keep it in my hand and then go back to the door frame to see what everyone else is doing. "I wonder who lived here?""

Magnolia Tansy
"I run as fast as I can. Items are just randomly tossed into my basket, and I know I'm in trouble. My ally is dead, and I don't know what to do. I'm all alone trapped in a world where I'm truly alone. People don't care for them. They never will, and yet I have to keep going. I have to push myself to the end of times to prove that I'm capable of staying alive. I'm tripping over trunks, dunking underneath trees. It's so dark, and I know I'm going to die. I'm going to pay the ultimate price for losing a friend. But who has friends in a place like this?

My body aches, and I just want to lay down and cry. It hurts so bad. Everything aches, but I wipe the tears away and try to carry on. To save myself from the depths of darkness. It hurts, but all I can do is pretend that I don't exist anymore.

My entire body is shaking, and it's so cold, but lighting a fire wouldn't do anything for me other than get me killed. But I have a lantern and it's more than capable of helping me. Of saving me alive.

But then something happens, and I'm down on the ground screaming. I'm reaching for the stupid bear tooth hoping it can save me. I don't know if it can.

"Just leave me alone!" I shout at the top of my lungs holding a hand against the new wound on my leg. I grit my teeth and force myself to stand, and then I swing at one of them. I'm out numbered, but I can survive. I know I can."

Noelle Vangart
"Calmness quells into crippling chaos as a bear bursts through the brush. Anger exists within every inch of its insidious irises and panic pulsates through my breaths. The shadows by my side swiftly prepare for the assault as the bear continues to barrel towards them with the intent of battle. Suddenly one is sprinting towards the structure, my eyes follow her as she flees from the struggle we at least know as destiny. "Tina wait! It might be..." The door slams before she has a chance to reconsider, my eyes widen in hysteric horror. "Tina!"

A sudden slash shatters any sense of stability I'm grasping onto as blood builds from the wound whipped across Raiden's face. In a moment I'm rushing to his aid praying for the protection of Tina inside the Maze Maker's madness. "Raiden are you okay?" I barely have a chance to notice an acknowledgement before my mind remembers the last bit of human blood I've seen. My eyes eerily burn against the blood biting to my flail, fear forces my view away in a sickening silent scream.

Voices violently break me back to the battle at hand and the souls I've sworn to protect. My knuckles clench around the chains of my selection as I stare the mechanics of the Maze Makers' in its eyes. "Get the hell away from us you slobbering beast!" My scream splits my long silence and stirs my movements into full force action."

Pierce Vilamanix
"Sudden shifts of steal signal that we have become locked within the locks of our cottage. Laughter lifts from my lips at such a lame attempt for a show. "Really?" I question clearly towards the creators of this cell. "Escaping a cottage? Talk about predictable." I smile sinisterly thinking of the blistering fury firing up within the flames of Lail's eyes. No matter, I refuse to allow myself pleasure on such a poor boring man and instead choose to take this moment to lighten the mood. "Well Lucy it would seem your wish for us to stay here might come true. But hopefully not."

Taking several seconds to think I wonder whether the rapier Braylon has is capable of using against the knob of the front door. Probably not. Fingers fiddle through the rough ridges of my hair as I walk around wondering what another approach to this sticky situation could be. A new smile of elated enlightenment engulfs my face as I lightly flick a nearby lock. "The answer is the locks." I say aloud but mainly to my own devices as I turn towards the others with happiness heating my cheeks. "I have something I'm going to try but in the mean time you all can feel free to try some stuff too. The sooner we get out the better."

I turn on my feels and begin digging through every inch of the cottage leaving not even a single spot of lint unchecked. Key after key becomes cradled in my palms as I snag them from their secret spots across the cottage. My smile never fades as eventually I'm left with ten different keys and a single lock on the front door. I begin fiddling with the keys waiting for one to slip into the lock and release us from our prison cell.

"I figured they had to put a key hidden in here somewhere for us to use. Otherwise this would be extremely boring and the Maze Makers hate boring." I say to those around me as I continue to try each key I've collected from within our cell."

[Kaplan]

Day Two

Lorenza Aita
On a normal basis, sunlight would filter past the clouds as one day concluded and another began, but not this time. The moon continued to shine bright, no other natural light to be seen. The District One runner wasn't frightened of darkness, however. She actually quite liked it, as it reminded her of the late nights at home, which seemed to be the only times she could truly relax. It was always hard for her to chill out during the day, as her mind would race whenever she saw her family. ever since the death of her brother Angelo.

She could remember the day Angelo died rather vividly. When she was at home with only her brothers, Ben and Angelo, her parents were out running errands. From her room, she could hear what sounded like play-fighting between the two boys. Unfortunately, the fighting was more than just joking around, and it went too far. Ben was hitting Angelo, and ended up slamming his head quite hard on the floor, then causing him to tumble down the stairs. This was when Lorenza came running out of her bedroom upon hearing Ben's scream. He was screaming and sobbing over Angelo's no longer moving body. Angelo was dead.

Shaking the thought from her head, Lorenza snapped back into reality. She tried to focus on what the others were saying and doing, but that was difficult. Her head was spinning and she couldn't see much of anything with how dark it was. Salem had pointed out a new trail of breadcrumbs on the ground, and Lorenza started to pay better attention to what was going on. Kaydence said they should all stay close, and the District One girl nodded, despite no one being able to see it.

Braylon Yandelle
Clearly the Maze Makers were bored. They’d decided to make the Maze pitch black, but gave us nothing to do. There was nothing to fight, and there hadn’t been since the bloodbath. The bloodbath wasn’t all that exciting, either. Yes, there was a lot of death, and I’d been one of the killers, but I think it would have been better if I’d killed more than just Horus. Besides, Horus had only scored a four, and was clearly not that intelligent to begin with. He thought he was a God, after all.

The closest anyone would come to a God in this maze was not the one who bared the name of one, but those that had created the maze itself. The Maze Makers were the only ones with real power here, and they weren’t even in the maze directly, unless you counted the grievers that were probably lurking somewhere to be their physical embodiments. The grievers hadn’t even dared to attack us, either. We’d heard them near the cottage, but they never emerged. The cottage was a waste of time, too, as Pierce had gotten us out on the first try with a key that he’d discovered. Did the Maze Makers think they could take us down that easily, with nothing to fight? Perhaps they thought we’d just murder each other out of boredom. I, however, prefered Charlie’s suggestion.

Although I wasn’t sure if it was a joke, as I couldn’t see anyone’s faces in the dark, Charlie suggested a foursome in the dark. Personally, I didn’t think it was that bad of an idea. I could use some entertainment. Things were getting rather dull. Letting out a slight laugh at Charlie’s suggestion, I spoke up. Perhaps she was serious.

“Doesn’t sound like a bad idea to me,” I said.

Alexzander Thomas
There’s certain excitement that seeps through my core at the chance for this challenge. Surely a battle is to be expected within a Maze ~ but the wicked additions that the Maze-Makers craft are surely just as enjoyable. A voice seeps to my ears before we fully embrace ourselves within this test however, from Chance requesting a light source. “I think all of us only have torches or lanterns. And any flame would go out in this violent breeze.” The unfortunate news is delivered; though at least Career Training did not solely teach me the mechanism of fighting, but also when not to waste a precious item. Cautiously I step into the depths of this optional obstacle, going slowly as to not leave behind our crippled Companion.

“Za-Za?” I call out for, hearing her running steps pattering off into the distance - away from us.

Kaydence Aqua
Ears remain perched in concentration, vigorous in the determination to remain with my alliance. The brutal winds settle to a tolerable tone within the barriers of the hedges, though blindness still carries us all. There’s an urge to clasp my fingers around the security of my team, but my prideful independence contains them in clenched fists at my side. “Think there’s any chance a light will be at the end of this tunnel?” Sarcasm humors from my rusty vocals, my voice scratching against my throat in desperation to escape from the torment of what I did yesterday. What will my Siblings think of my performance? Surely they’ll be proud I’m breaching to survival, but still they must know I subtly stepping towards being yet another Monster our Family’s already drowning within. If only I can strive to the end of this, to truly receive their new opinions of me.

Dragon Jinx
As the bear struck Tina instead of Dragon, the young boy felt guilt surge through his body. She had been hit and killed as a result of protecting him. How could he ever repay such an action? Dragon felt that he didn't deserve to have been saved. Instead, Tina should have stayed out of the way so she didn't get hit. Dragon didn't want to blame her, though. She did it because she cared. He would have done the same for her.



The girl begged to know if Dragon was safe. Noelle told Tina she was a hero, and that she had saved him. This was true. Dragon saw her as a hero, for sure. Then, he approached her as she lie on the ground. Placing his hand on her shoulder, the boy spoke softly to her. His voice was kind.



"Yes, Tina. I'm okay," he told her. He couldn't get any other words to surface at first. Once he noticed her starting to fade from life, however, he knew he had to speak. He had to say something. Tina had just saved Dragon's life. She deserved more than just knowing that he was okay. His hand still resting on her shoulder, he spoke again.



"You are an amazing girl, and no one will forget you. Especially not me. I'll never forget the beautiful girl named Tina who saved my life." A tear rolled down Dragon's cheek, but he didn't wipe it away. She should know that he mourns her. She should know, in those final moments, that she's loved.


Hera Leopold
It was a bold move. Hera's voice called out to the dragon, willing it to hit her. She begged for it to turn it's attention onto her so that she may absorb the damages done like a sponge. She was resilient. She could handle it. Words hurt her more than anything else in the world but the physical pain just didn't seem to do enough to ward her mind away from what was going on in front of her. The dragon took her please and her taunt, and followed through by attacking her foot just as its sister dragons did to Zeus. Only, it missed the portion of her foot that would cause her to stand and inflicted only a minor bout of pain in her toe.



She hobbled if but for only a second as the pain subsided rather quickly and she shook her head to Zues's calls.



"I'm trying, but these dragons need not to attack you. You need to get out of here. I can handle these. I promise, I will return to you, but you need to find somewhere safe!" She begged once more, after he had attacked the dragon, only damaging it in the littlest amount possible. Still, he made contact and if she knew what had to be done, then it needed to be done again. The last dragon that attacked her partner, ended up with a shattered spine by the blunt of her hammer.



She was bound and determined to repeat the same thing again. This dragon would never touch her man again. "Zeus... don't forget me!"

Charlie Smith
The pleasant taste of distraction finally captivates me, as a sturdy grip clasps against my hip. Boring small talk had intertwined through silence and darkness, but finally irresistible lips breath desired words close to my ear. If any could keep uncontrollable thoughts of Noelle from my vicious mind, it’s surely be the lusciousness of Pierce. A seductive grin creases my cheeks, though it’s unnoticeable within this black abyss. “Don’t wait up for us guys! We’ll catch up in a bit!” Is forewarned to the others as greedy fingers guide my generous companion a tad from the others.



And sure enough a little later we’re back to skipping along side the rest of our allies again, with a grateful grin lightening my face. The amusement only continues, as we’re welcomed into the opening of our next event. Glowing eyes indicate the soft growl that seemed to have been following us; and to no surprise Pierce is anxious to meet the Stalker. Laughter crumbles from my throat as he charges towards the Griever, only to startle it away.



“Damn - Lail really is slacking. Didn’t think he’d bring a coward beast into his Maze.” Taunts from my lips, with hunger for a true battle. “Now where are we gonna find some fun?” Is questioned with a load of disappointment. If Pierce wasn’t present, action would severely be lacking here. My gaze shifts to where I assume the others are from listening to their footsteps. “Foursome in the dark? Finally give the Capitol some entertainment?” Jokes from my bored core, with slight sincerity intertwining in the mix.

Chance Volturi
"We can make it through, everyone"



Chance heard her voice, and the voices of the rest of his group, but the breadcrumbs were small, however he could feel them in the darkness. He pulled himself further through the maze, wandering aimlessly trying to keep with up with his group. It wasn't hard though considering that he could feel when the crumbs went off into another direction. He couldn't fall away from them.



"Think they'll be an ugly witch at the end of the light of the tunnel, Kaydence?" He followed her joke and chuckled himself. The numbness spreading like wildfire causing the tingle to become more harrowing for him.



"Zaza? Where are you? You're voice is going away."

Zeus Prank
No matter how much Hera wanted me to run away and let the dragon continue to attack her, I wouldn't. I cared too much about her. I had never really cared about anyone but myself in my entire life, but now I did. I cared about her more than anything. The dragon was close to death, but not close enough for us to run away. We still needed to fight it if we wanted to survive.



"I'm not leaving you, Hera!" I shouted to her. I knew I couldn't leave her. There was no way in hell I was ever going to do that. When there's only one person in the world you care about, you can't just ditch them. There's no leaving them on the ground bleeding as you run off into oblivion.



"Stupid, rotten dragon! Leave her be!" When the dragon was hit with Hera's hammer, it retaliated by attacking her again. It didn't seem to have done much damage, but it was damage nonetheless. I couldn't let it hurt her any further, so I used my remaining strength to swing my hammer at the dragon once more.

Raiden Llyod
Silent tears roll down the side of my face. Moving is hard. Breathing is impossible. The biggest bears are dead which is a huge feat in itself, but it didn't come with a price. Tina fell, and I can't do anything. Dragon managed to snag baby bear, and I don't know if I want it following us. It's scary, terrifying. It's one of the Capitol's creations, and I want nothing to do with it.



My heart aches as I watch Noelle and Tina.



Making friends in the maze has only hurt me, but maybe it's the reason I'm here. To find a friendship, but what's the purpose? Why make friends when everyone is going to die.



I can't even bring myself to think about fighting anymore.



It's so dark, but in the little light offered by the flashlight, I can see her. I can't hear what's being said, and I'm staying off to the side. It hurts so bad. Just like when Kendrick fell in the bloodbath.



I'm crying, hard. I can't control myself, and I want to lean my head against her telling her it'll all be okay, but I know it won't. The massive claw has destroyed her, taken her life away.



Putting the weapons away, I carefully move over to her, and I sit down beside her, placing my hand on her shoulder, but I don't know what to say. I don't know what to do anymore. No words can make up for what just happened. But what can I do?



I lick my lips trying to control the tears from falling any faster.



"Tina...sweet Tina..." My words fail, and I can't do anything anymore because my silent tears are now loud and violent.


Tina LaRue
Noelle's voice is like the nectar of a honeysuckle; sweet. Her apology wasn't even needed as the older girl accepts it with the gentle movement of her hair. She longed for the girl and her alliance to forget what had happened; how she made a fool of herself.



"Everyone, keep fighting! don't back down! We can do this!" Tina's mind rushed with emotions. She longed to keep Raiden safe. She longed to make up for her stupidity to Noelle from just the day before. Her stomach peirced with pain already but she wouldn't say anything at all. She was glad to have Noelle hold her; to be in her arms. Tears seemed to have fallen but she sewed her up. She whispered in her ear sweet words of strength as she felt the needle peirce her stomach over and over again, pulling the skin together to prevent any more leakage of blood. She had slept fast that night but to have this day be what it was, she feared for their lives. 



An act of bravery shone as bright as her flashlight. Her eyes glanced to papa bear, watching where his sights had been turned. Dragon was in trouble. Dragon had been next on his mind to attack and the wailing of baby bear peirced her mind. She jumped at the chance to protect her alliance. "RUN DRAGON.. RUN PLEA..." She longed to keep them safe - she longed..



"AHHH!" The scream suddenly escaped her lips in a painful cry as her flashlight went flying toward the ground, spinning before coming to a halt, lighting the ground in which she crumpled onto. Her head hit the ground. Tina's body landed on its side, a hand keeping her from rolling over on her back. Her face began to spill crimson from a gaping wound on her face and eye. Her breaths gasping yet shallow. Her fingers latched onto some form of solid ground but weakness overtook her.



"Ra... Raid.... Noe... elle..." Her fingers slowed down from grasping the blades of grass. "..is... he..safe?"


Salem Fysco
Another agonizing answer to simple truths which toil from my tongue greets my ears over the frequently fluttering wings of the devils around us. While words wind into my ears ringing with desire to end ensured suffering, my eyes follow the fast flicking of small shadows through the dark skies. Overhead another daunting dive prepares to present itself, while for a mere moment I turn my attention to the girl tainted by the terrible tether of name gilded in golden victory. The fire flickering and fueling her mystic movements and her hardened heart is crystal clear through the remittance of her aura. Although secretly a softer soul of mine longs to sing sacred songs deemed unhallowed by elders of past, my better self knows such actions are not for public eyes through secret cameras to see. I search for a sentence hoping to conjure some structure of sorry in a sweet tone wafting upon true moral values, alas as I search the depths of my darkness I remember I that a witch holds no such sounding sympathy. I own only one whispering voice to speak through.



"Blood is beyond just material, its soul links to choices made. If you are family then a blood bond you undoubtedly share." The words start to spill from my lips but I can see confusion creeping through their meaning and I continue quickly hoping to quiet the possible swell of dismay. "Memories are sacred, sewn into the souls of our beings. To undo just one of these laces would be to change a person entirely, I won't destroy them for safety from pain. Whether you live or die shall stitch their souls in a special way, never change destiny out of uncertain fear."



Suddenly the sky splinters and shatters as shows sift from above. I prepare myself for the tiny soldier's assault as I watch all my allies and friends do the same. A prick and a trickle tends to my arm as I avoid most of a dangerous dance. Instead of following my own assailant I turn to Zander's who showers in his stolen scarlet. I refuse to allow my greatest assistants purge in flames other than the ones I have destined for them eventually.


Lucy Yolei
The goodie bag was Peirce's responsilibity. As long as he shared, I wouldn't complain at all. Afterall, he was the strongest of the bunch, except for Charlie of course. I could tell that without a doubt. Though, would it do us any good in the end? Was the food tainted with something horrible or a worm be pitted into the centers of each fruit just waiting on us to devour it without notice?



The thought made me nausous to think about. My stomach turned from within but the dark path made my attention turn elsewhere when the gentle sound of the growl returns, wafting on the air as an aroma of fear pits into my stomach again. "I don't like this place..." I conjure up a fearful shake in my hands, bringing them up to my lips. My teeth biting into a nail almost instantly as I seek out Charlie's company. She does'nt seem to much interested in me anymore and I can't figure out why. I thought we were together?



Though, Pierce seems to have ran off that faint feeling of being stalked just by chasing into the path ahead. Peace calms my nerves instantly.



"That was fun. Peirce, I do think you might be the almight protector of this group." I grin, with the darkness but a joke emerges from Charlie. A question of a foursome and some fun, I'd like to get my hands on her and the other two would surely be the dessert on top. I chuckle from within. Even Braylon is in on it. I shrug. 


"Why not.... we only live once. Who knows what could happen by tomorrow?" I entice the others, bumping into someone who was nearest me. "I think Charlie should start by picking someone at random since it was her idea... do a nighttime guessing game." My voice dips down an octave, seducing the wind around me.



Noelle Vangart
Willows weep, skies split sun suffering beneath a brutal barricade of cold clouds. A heart held flower folds wilting within a winter wind. She slips through space, tears through time before colliding with my arms. Crimson curses across stained skin while fingers follow her face. So many words to say, so many memories to make. They all fade from reality splintering across a realm of darkness. Tina LaRue is being removed from our existence, fading within the fierce hold of my ethereal embrace.



Failed faces forge themselves upon the forefront of my mind blistering a burn of guilt to deep to be cured. My Mother and Father fall before I breach their breaths with my own. Kendrick curls cruelly over inside a wicked world of blood before I can return beats to his heart. Now another girl greatly tethered to my heavy heart phases from my fingers detoriorating into death before I'm able to bring a needle to her skin.



The needle falls, its pointless with this progression.



A soft smile steals the sorrow from my face shoving it beneath my skin. Kind coos calm a quaking child. "Yeah, you saved him. You're a hero." You're my hero. It happens again, my heart shatters beneath brutal loss. Maybe Noelle Vangart is eternally meant to be a broken girl grown on grief.

Pierce Vilamanix
The opportunity to acquire undeniable pleasure is precisely played off by the newest creations of Lail and Layla. From beneath the dark dim brush bursts not one, not two, but five fucking baby wolves. Where the hell are the Maze Makers going with this weird ass shit? At first I suspect just another disappointment on Lail's behalf but I'm swiftly stunned as the minions of the Makers strike from our sides. My own injuries are barely more than a beaten bruise where Lucy's are far more substantial. Although I worry for the girl and need her as an ally I can't help the single clearest though creeping and crawling through my mind. At least I'm not in her position yet.



Despite the drastic dynamics of the brutal battle before me confidence quirks across my lips in a sinister smile. "Okay they want us to fight puppies then let's tear them limb from limb." I charge forward leading the crusade to come. So long as we remain alive it doesn't matter how we handle ourselves within the devil's domain.

[Kaplan]

Day Three

Lorenza Aita
The fairies were falling all around Lorenza, her allies taking them down. In that moment, she felt relatively useless. She'd done very little damage to the creatures, and even if she didn't want to kill a fellow runner, she wouldn't mind taking down a griever. If she were to die, at least she would have fought back. Plus, maybe she'd even have fun doing it. After all, Lorenza was always up for fun. She'd always been a party girl.

Braylon Yandelle
Pierce tried his best to get on my nerves by teasing me about my lack of middle fingers. Luckily, this didn't get to me. He found humor in the fact that I could no longer flip anyone off, and so did I, in all honesty. It was frustrating, yes, but it was also quite amusing. I smirked when Pierce spoke about the subject to me.

"Haha, I suppose you're right, Pierce. Although, keep in mind that I still have the remainder of my fists. I don't need five fingers on each hand to punch someone, so watch where you go with things," I told him jokingly. He was my ally, after all, so I didn't plan on killing him. No, if it came down to just my allies and I at the end, I'd fight to the death, but for now, we were protecting each other. We were all walking together in the purple light the reflected down on us from the moon, until we came to an opening.

When the path had opened up, what we found before us were two other runners and, what I supposed was a witch of some sort. Immediately, Charlie and Pierce were attacking the witch, with Pierce taking it down in one swing of his own weapon, shattering its skull. I grinned. It was a nice shot.

"Nice, you two. Now, I don't particularly feel like bothering with these ones at the moment. Mind if we move on?" I gestured in the direction of the other two runners that weren't on our side when I said this. Then, without waiting for a response, I walked right past them and continued onward.

Alexzander Thomas
Eventually the glorious Moon glistens it’s new purple hue upon the path we carry down. Crickets chirp a breathtaking tune, while the violent breeze howls through the night – indicating no such noise of an oncoming brutality…yet. Preparation is key as Father consistently lectures; training in solely skills of strength and combat leave most Careers deadly yet naïve. Indicating an approaching battle can be just a powerful as knowledge in how to fight in one, and fortunately for myself I’m talented in both aspects. Distant chatter between Kaydence and Salem even whispers from up ahead, leaving my concentration upon the other two within our alliance.

“I’m glad we all rejoined at the end of that obstacle back there. We’re all valuable within this alliance. We’re going to need each other in the shit to come.” Compliments attempt to comfort them, especially Chance given his new disability. “Once we can find a location with stuff, maybe we can make you something for better transportation. A wheelbarrow would be perfect.” But before such a luxury can even be spoken of further, a buzzing alerts my senses. Immediately my weapon is drawn, preparing for the altercation to come. A bite snips at my leg, but once more it’s Chance that takes the worse end. Instinct draws my sharp Tooth of a knife towards the little Demon who dares to inflict more damage across the One who’s already wounded.

Kaydence Aqua
Decaying leafs crackle underneath steps. Or perhaps it’s the abundance of breadcrumbs being smothered below the souls of our shoes. Either way purely the songs of nature fluttering amongst senses. Silence continues to roam amongst all of us, and I absolutely despise it. Is it due to the ultimate truth that this Maze has a cruel finger upon us, that solely one of us may escape from this place alive? Perhaps the answer will never be spoken, while I brutally hate it nonetheless.

Within the wordless stroll, I discover a moment to walk beside Salem. Amongst this lack of violence moment, it’s doubtful that the cameras are observing us, hopefully leaving my Siblings blind to my current speech. “Any chance you have a spell that’ll have my family forget about me? Or one that’ll keep them from being upset if I don’t make it out of here?” The question’s left hanging on a brief pause, seeking for the result that I crave – until I realize an explanation is probably required. “Of course, they think I’m going to return home to them alive. But what if I can’t?... Who’s to say I deserve to survive this more than anyone else?” The reasoning is left with purely more wonders.

A foreign noise interrupts our conversation, a buzzing interweaving through the harsh breeze. And before realization can even be collected, miniature Beings are snipping at our exteriors. It’s difficult to even observe their form within their speedy dance through the atmosphere. But surely two separate Creatures bite upon my skin – and instinctively my weapon’s charging for the last one to carve its fangs into me.

Dragon Jinx
The dwarf had seemingly come out of nowhere, and before Dragon knew it, the human-like creature, about the same height as himself, attacked. Luckily, the boy's reflexes were quicker than that of his enemy, and he managed to dodge the attack. Dragon laughed at this. It was like the dwarf was trying to be intimidating, but it was certainly failing.

"You're not very coordinated, are ya?" Dragon asked of the dwarf. "Don't worry, I can show you how to be, as long as I don't fall on my face or kill you in the process. Watch this," he told it. Then the young Jinx swung his fist, armed with werewolf claws. He was so distracted about the fact that he had another chance to show his skills, that he'd nearly forgotten that his allies were separated from him. Nearly.

Then, Dragon looked to the baby bear that was still following him.

"You ready to help out, little guy? Show him what we do."

Hera Leopold
Hera knew the moment that they clammered into the paths of the four others, that something dreadful was about to happen. Only hours ago, in the day before, she had found her lips to create such an array of colors in her heart for the one that she traveled with. It was an awful thing to have to come to terms with that it might not last all that long, but once their numbers came after them, attacking the witch, it was decided that their fates might be tortured further.

The witch fell so suddenly to the hands of some monster and without another thought, a member of their group fled. Hera looked to Zeus and nodded quickly. "We need to escape as quick as possible before they decide to do otherwise. ARe you up for the challenge?" She sweetly asked, and put her hand out for him him to follow. No exchange of words were given to the others. She had no need to allow them that much honor.

Charlie Smith
Disappointment reigns the formation of my expression, as I stare off at Pierce to display my inner sadness. In one slick motion he’s shattered the likes of our attractive, mutated Opponent. As though he hadn’t shared the fondness of our Foe’s stern striking beauty, he ruptured her entire head as if she were a mere small insect. And as if she were true Competition, and the Maze-Maker’s crave for murder has been temporarily fulfilled, the gates holding us captive to such a violent demand open to release us back into the larger cage. Instantly the others escape into a seek for a potential haven, as if one actually existed - even our allies go for the search, all for except Pierce and I of course.

“Well that was unfortunately anticlimactic.” I express my letdown with sarcastic sorrow contorting my tone. “I was hoping for us to get a couple of cuts and bruises so we can pretend at being sexy nurses.” And to no surprise the jokes strive in my sarcasm. Bored from everyone’s frenzy to desert from potential fun, a sigh combs from my lungs before I nudge my head in the direction our team has gone. “Unless you wanna go play with those nauseating lovebirds?” I comment over the two hand-holders we didn’t even get to touch.

Still, without waiting for a reply, I begin walking towards where our partners have depart to. “But I’d rather you entertain me in other ways - you better make up for finishing that fight too quickly.” I wink at him in my seductive threat; before mocking the professed God and Goddess with a cheesy offer of my hand to Pierce. What Gods would cower from a battle without a single blow? Pathetic.

Chance Volturi
The new disability don't hinder Chance much at all. At first, he challenged the disability with pride but now, he could just see the light at the end of the tunnel. Each day, he was given another chance to redeem his name. Today, he would seek justice for his forthcomings. He wanted nothing more than to make it out of the maze, but what quality of life could he have if he were to make it out alive? Would they be able to repair his spine?

A nice gesture was given in form of words, offering up a solution to his sore wrists and overstretched back. He wasn't exactly the most limber of the tributes, but when push came to shove, he literally had to do what was necessary in order to become less of a burden on the people helping him.

"That would be..." Buzzing overcame his ears, and he could see his teammates all make the same and Chance swats at the beasts overhead leaving his middle open. With one hand swatting, and one hand to adjust his stability, a piercing force stabs him right in the chest, alight with pain, he finds himself hauling the axe in whatever direction the nearest fairy was. The crippling pain making him topple to the side a moment later.

Zeus Prank
I hate to admit it, but when we encountered four other runners, my heart skipped a beat, and I actually felt genuine fear. Although, it was certainly mixed with anger. Braylon, the dark-haired boy from District One, had killed Horus, one of our allies, in one throw of a knife. Regardless of what he had done, however, I knew I wouldn't let myself fight them if we didn't have to, for the safety of Hera. The witch that I had summoned to be alongside us as a protector was slain quite swiftly by the other alliance, and Braylon ran before I could react. Without him there, I didn't want to fight quite yet. I wanted him to see his allies fall if we were going to fight. That, or I wanted him to be the one to fall.

Hera had offered her hand to me and suggested that we escape the area. I nodded in response, knowing the only real option was to just get away. I took her hand, and smiled at her, which was something that most people likely wouldn't do when they were scared or angry. Hera, however, made me smile. It was hard not to be happy around her. Although, I doubted that even if it was possible for us to both make it out of here alive that I'd ever have kids, even with her. I'm not sure, but I know that at this point in my life, I hate kids.

"Yeah, let's go. I don't want you to get hurt, okay?" I said to her.

Raiden Llyod
Tina was dead. If it wasn't known when the bear clawed her eye, t's made obvious when her face appears in the anthem.

It hurts. I cared for her more than I should've. She's a friend, someone I want to become like, and now in the blink of an eye, I watched her fall. I partially feel like it's my fault that she's dead. It should've been me, not her. I should've been the one with the claw stabbing my face.

But instead, I have a waterfall flowing from my eyes.

I knew it would hurt. I knew coming in that I'd lose people I somehow ended up getting close to. I tried not to make friends, and yet I found someone, and now I have noone.

Yeah, Dragon and Noelle are here, but it doesn't mean anything. Dragon and Noelle have proved themselves, but I've shown that I'm just a kid who can't stand his ground. Why did it have to come down to this?

Maybe it'll be best if I just die. It'll be easier that way. Nobody will have to worry about me. Nobody will have to make sure I'm still coming along. It'll be easier for everyone, but I want to live. I want to try to see my family again. I'm just not brave like them.

When Wentworth cried, I cried with them, but Dragon and Noelle attacked him. I didn't do anything.

Isn't that what the maze is about?

Hurting people? Killing people?

What a pathetic excuse of a runner I am.

I'm sure the mazemakers will shout for joy when my cannon sounds and my face flies through the anthem in the night sky.

I can't sleep. I can't move. I can only sit frozen huddled in the sleeping bag I managed to snatch from the last items of the bloodbath. It's cold, and dark, and the wind just keeps blowing chilling me to the bone. My teeth chatter against one another over and over. Maybe I'll die from hypothermia that way Dragon and Noelle can just go along their merry way without me.

Would they miss me, or am I just another face to them?

I'll never know if I'm dead, and it's probably for the best.

I can't turn a weapon against them. I can't hurt them. I can't do anything to them. I don't want them to die either. I can't afford to lose them, but maybe it's best if I just casually sneak away and pretend that everything's okay? Maybe even wear a fake grin so that nobody questions me, however, I can't even hide behind that because my eyes are puffy and red from all the tears I've cried.

But I don't move or anything. I just lie down and wait for Dragon and Noelle to move, and I follow behind with them without saying a word. I'm afraid I'll cry again if I open my mouth to speak.

I just trudge along through the dark and creepy forest. Maybe one day my life will all make sense, but even then I don't know if it will. Maybe I'll find out why I was chosen for this horrible place.

Why die so young?

I thought I'd grow old and have a chance to live my life with my own family, but obviously that's not in the plans written the moment I was born.

I sigh and shrug my shoulders. My head slouches forward, and I keep moving forward. My eyes dancing around across the ground watching for anything that may cross my path.

I lift my head and in the distance lingers a creepy castle. I want to run away from it, but maybe treasures linger inside. Every hair stands on end, and I don't know what to do. I normally would run away, but all I do is stand perfectly still.

I watch Noelle run ahead, and I have to do the same. I have to keep up with her to make sure I have a better chance of staying alive.

But I never say a word.

I only hope I have the will and strength to survive.

Salem Fysco
Ancient eras ebb eradicating ethereal existence of eternal darkness. Overhead banshees bellow beyond reasonable distances drowning out the deathly dismays of another daunting "day". Steps seep into sodden soil as sleepless soldiers scurry forward following cruel crumbs. Lost lingering inside the ignited intelligence of my sheer sentience a terrible thought does draw out from my cerebral crevices. Could each minute spent meandering down this dark disarray prove fatal? Perhaps prison within the eternal exile beyond the built barricades of life holds more promising power than is already capable of being controlled... I shrug such sorrow swiftly off my skin. Victory is the only cruel crown which can be affixed to my head in placement of pristine power.

For the first second of my swift study I detect details changed upon my clothing, the necklace of sacred skull shines no longer. A sigh slips from my corners of my creased lips recalling the cruel canon cracking through the sky just hours earlier, the necklace lifts from its home. "I'm sorry Tina, you probably deserved so much better." I steal sneakily away from the sauntering shadows of my group's safety to send a spell spiraling through the acidic air. "Tutus dimiserunt itinerantur." The words warp and whip in terrific tune to the fingers fiddling with the severed sight of her lingering life line. "Be safe."

Back buried within wandering warriors one steps closer crawling into my step's shadows. Kaydence speaks of believes buried beneath my skin stirring a slight smile to my face despite her such clear souring sorrow. A single touch trembles against her soft shoulder. "There is never a spell which can shatter the ties of blood bounds, family is forever. Memories may be manipulated but I shall share no such spell or cast such a curse, don't let doubt bury you alive." A smile is all I can share before brutal buzzing beats away any sense of safety beneath a purple plight in the sky. My sword slips to its spot, war is welcome in a wizard's world.

Lucy Yolei
N/A (All posts on Day Three from Lucy were fillers)

Noelle Vangart
A shot of surreal shock stings through my veins as the toe he has taken flies past my face. As my eyes return to his I witness red riddle every spot of his skin, anger is clearly his strong suit. With a rush of man made metal the chain swooshes back through the air twisting and twirling at my command. Although I know this beast before me is nothing more than the Capitol's creation its English is still surprising sharp and concisely correct. I push back any thoughts of these demon being human though, in this Maze only I and the ones who are my own are worthy of living, everything else is not human but inevitable death.

The chain goes curling from my palms again in a counter to his next failed strike against my skin. "I don't give a damn about my slit skin. I want back the children you've stolen from me. A Mother never rests until her children are safe!"


Pierce Vilamanix
A swift snap of my arm and suddenly winter wails shattering shards around me. In my mind I can hear the disdain and anger welling from the back of Mr. Locke's throat as this perfect like masterpiece to kill me off crumbles at its first kiss of my skin. Reaching a hand down a collect a scoop a frozen slush and send it soaring in the direction of our fleeing opponents, a mockery to the Maze Makers and to the pathetic couple who attempted to fight us. A nasty smirk sets upon my face as I watch the white whip through the air. "If you don't wanna fight can we at least snowball fight?" Despite my claims and open fire of their fallen Griever's insides, the two continue to creep deeper into the darkness of the woods which confine us all. A shrug stirs from my shoulders the further away I watch them wither. "No matter! We'll probably be fighting you soon anyway! So enjoy one last night screwing! I know I will!"

As though on queue my queen offers me her hand with a heavenly invitation to entertain her for the evening. I don't just take the hand, but I pull her close pressing my lips to her's for almost a minute so both our fleeing foes and the world can watch with vivid interest. After breaching our embrace a smile steals across my cheeks. "Unlike in fighting, as you know, I don't finish fast." I take her hand only now leading deeper into the brush.

[Kaplan]

Day Four

Lorenza Aita
As soon as Lorenza and her alliance entered the candy crafted cottage, the doors of the small building slammed shut, making a smashing sound that caused Za-Za to jump a bit and her heart to skip a beat. She was easily startled for a career, but she couldn't let that stop her from fighting if necessary, and unfortunately for her, fighting was going to be necessary. Seemingly out of nowhere, a cackling voice spoke to the group that had decided to enter the petite structure.

"You dare try to steal my special treats? I'll make treats out of you instead!" The voice screeched. Then, before Lorenza could even think, she felt a searing pain on her chest. She yelled out in pain, indecipherable language seeping from her lips. The only word that could truly be understood coming from her mouth was something to the effect of 'eep', which wasn't even truly a word, when it came down to it. When she looked at the damage that had been done, she realized that all the clothing on the upper half of her body had been scorched off of her.

Now, the young woman knew she had to fight. If she was going to die, it would be a warrior's death. She wouldn't just go down easily, either. If she was going to die, it would be honorable. Or, at least, it would be as honorable as the death of a topless woman could be.


Braylon Yandelle
Lucy was honest with how she was doing. I appreciated that, if I actually appreciated anything in this damn Maze. She was referring to the griever as 'Wolfie' which I found somewhat amusing. Letting out a small chuckle at what she said, I nodded in response. It was time to get rid of 'Wolfie'.

"What she said," I told it. "Or, in my terms, die bitch!"


Alexzander Thomas
White welcomes us from simply slumber and soon we are back venturing through the dark forest's foliage. No words are spoken as our steps sink softly into the falling flakes of snow. Their presence reminds me of a winter when the training center was shut and I had no choice but to practice out inside the kiss of the cold. It taught me how to survive the seasons, and now I plan to continue on doing so. I look at the building Salem starts stepping towards and a smile spills from my lips. "Lets try it. We haven't had any problems yet."


Kaydence Aqua
An eerie wave flutters through the windless atmosphere. No deaths had settled the Maze-Makers the day prior, meaning horrid was surely to come today. And sure enough, a tempting Cottage of candy halts the path from venturing any further. A dead end? An obstacle within our journey? Should we head back? Or go through? Though without discussing such, Salem decides to continue onward - while it’s evident I will not allow him to go alone, nor stay outside alone as the rest follow behind him. A sign rumbles through my throat with wonder on what’s to come, and without thought my feet trail behind the others.


Dragon Jinx
Dragon was starting to feel genuine pain at this point. As the driver's whip struck him again, the boy yelped in pain. He was done trying to have a conversation with this creature. He just wanted it to stop attacking him. That was all he wanted.

"Please, just leave us alone!" he shouted at it.

The young runner was holding back tears as he made his next attack. He needed to protect himself, as well as the others. He'd trained for this sort of situation his whole life, yet his abilities were failing him right then. Now, he just had to hope that he was strong enough. That, or he had to hope that there was enough strength inside those at his side.


Hera Leopold
N/A (Died before she could post)


Charlie Smith
There’s no denying that this is not a first occasion to me - waking up in an unfamiliar surroundings, unsure of how I stumbled here nor the familiar strange faces sharing the room. A well know fog consumes the likes of my brain, but fortunately for myself I’m far too adapted to such a sensation. With no effort I press past the achy swell of my head, and prepare for the altercation patiently awaiting to unravel. Except, unfortunately, another common event crumbles to the scene. All too swiftly a few words of breached, and Pierce satisfies Maze-Maker Layla’s desires.

This time it’s Hera’s body that rests lifeless upon the floor. And just as yesterday unraveled, within moments Zeus is fleeing with his love in hand. What fools to allow their hearts to patter for another’s; perhaps I should be grateful I was separated from Noelle.

There should be remorse that pains at myself, yet there’s not. As they days tick by, it grows more known that solely one shall escape from this little game. Horrifically, it’s only Pierce that pierces my emotions. “Really? You had to take the kill again?” Sarcasm whips at him in return for his actions, before it’s time to move on once more.


Chance Volturi
He watches every from behind, his point of view a little less than comfortable as the days wear on. His back ever so unforgiving in the healing process and proceeds to keep him from feeling the ache of tired feet. Instead belly rash raveges his stomache but he denies the need for help among the others. Silence comes from him and as they reach the end of the path, he notices the sweet, sweet cottage up ahead. Two go in before he has a chance to say anything, but instead of turning back, he knew it was inevitable to go against the grain and he's gone too far already. Exhaustion draws him forward and he enters behind the others, itching to reach out and take a bite out of the house.


Zeus Prank
The next ‘day’ was upon us. My only source of happiness, Hera, was by my side. It didn’t take long, however, before the two of us got lost, and I felt responsible for it. It was foggy, with only the moon to light the way. There’s only one way to go, and we follow that path. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the best choice. Before we knew it, we were in a small, musty, little cabin. The worst part about it was who we were with- Pierce and Charlie. They were part of the alliance that had been pitted against us the day prior.

As the Maze Makers spoke to us, I clenched my fists. When they were done, silence filled the room, and I knew what I had to do. I had to protect Hera. There was nothing I wanted more than to keep her safe. I would do anything in my power to prevent her from getting hurt.

When Pierce’s words pierce the air, I hold the hammer tight in my hand. He swings at Hera with his gauntlets, but I’m too late to intercept the hit, and my only love falls to the ground. I yell at the top of my lungs, not wanting him to get away with it. Although, I knew that the only thing I could do to survive was to get out of there. Tears started forming in my eyes.

“You fucking bastard!” I yelled at him. “She never even touched you! She didn’t deserve this!”

I ran to Hera’s lifeless body and looked at her for a moment before allowing one of my tears to fall on her cheek. I couldn’t stay there for too long, though, as I had no way of knowing what else the rotten people on the other end of this fight would do to me. I lifted up Hera’s body, gave one last glance of rage to her killer, and ran off as swiftly as I could while carrying the body of the only person I’d ever truly cared for. I would lay her down, somewhere peaceful, and plant a kiss on her lips before I departed.


Raiden Llyod
They're screaming and shouting, and I'm standing around firing from afar. My life is important and losing now isn't worth my time. I want to survive. I want to stay alive, but right now a friend is in need. Dragon is covered in blood, and I feel so bad. I just want to help him. I want to give him a new beginning. A chance to show the world that I'm capable of something. Yet I never say a word. It's far too difficult to communicate the words rattling through my tiny brain.

My hands wrap around another unicorn horn as I take aim at the thing moving around. It may think it has the upper hand, but I'm here to prove otherwise. I'm here to show them that they made a mistake stepping in my way because I have to help my friends.


Salem Fysco
Suddenly safety ceases. From the shadows at the center of the cottage a terrible creature crawls into our view. Her voice cracks and crinkles as we watch her begin to wield a destructive device. My heart nearly halts its rapid beating when the flames begin to flicker from its end. My mouth begins to open in a word of warning but too late does my scream escape as a burst of blistering embers emits from the end of the staff. I swiftly swing my sword from its place by my side.

As I watch it wither and warp the room to its abilities I realize it too can conjure curses and send spells. My grip tightens on the steel of my sword, magic is my masterpiece. I walk forward fire now finding its place in my eyes. I speak soft and low ignoring the presence of the others around me, this is a place for magical wars. "Learn your place wretched witch, you are nothing compared to me."


Lucy Yolei
Wolfie needs to die and the sooner the better. I really want to get away from this thing. It's slightly freaking me out but Braylon is so brave swearing at it and just going forward. I'm only trying to keep my own skin safe and Braylon's so that he has a chance as well. The unfamiliar sound of a breaking bone sends my senses haywire as my wrist goes limp, but it doesn't effect my ability to stay on plan. I'll cringe after it falls to the ground.

"My hand hurts." I don't lie. "I'll be okay - just gotta make the wolfie get dead!"


Noelle Vangart
I'm not entirely sure when the sweet song of sleep overcomes me, the last thing I remember is the soft shallow breaths of Raiden sweetly slumbering by my side. When morning comes I'm the first to crawl from the warmth of my wrappings and to embrace the crisp chill of this night's air. From above fierce flakes of white begin to wander from the clouds and the moon shines nearly as bright as the sun. My head falls at such a terrible thought, I don't even really know how long its been since everything began. Three days, maybe four? I've tried to track the anthems but when most nights come with burying a child, my mind barely focuses on miniature numbers that can't change a thing.

When the boys have awoken we set out from our stay in the castle and down a winding, weaving set of stone stairs. In my mind I question if we are even close to the Final Hallway, whether what really waiting for us is a dead end or the exit. Both seem frightening in my mind. One one end one of us lives but the others die most likely from each others' hands. On the other hand we all die together while our families, while my siblings watch. Such stirring sorrow almost entirely mutes the sound of swiftly approaching steeds. I only have an instant to dive from a soft sheath of snow before the demented death carriage strikes for our skin.

From the snow I watch the fight begin as Baby Bear makes the first marks. In parts of my brain I pray for one of them to fall so that the thoughts of their blood upon my hands can finally be hidden away for eternity. Tears well within the corners of my eyes as I stand with my chain creaking with moments of metal meeting the broken cement beneath me. I can't allow for the darkness to destroy me, until the day I die I'll protect these boys. I took a vow, Mother's don't break vows.


Pierce Vilamanix
It happens somewhere between the sensational sex and the several seconds of sleep. Frightening fog furls through the broken branches of the decaying brush. Silent it secretly slips closer to us until finally we are fully devoured at its delight. I can't recall what controlled me to venture down the twisted trail I took, but the scent of certain chemicals was clear. By the time my senses had set me free from my state already confined within the cabin were we all, myself half dressed of course. As I pulled down my sweat stained shirt and regained my regal red cloak upon my back, I looked at the love birds before me once again. It was more than fate which wove our destinies to this end, the Maze Makers were hungry for blood. Layla Locke's voice only confirmed the same thought which was easily on all of our minds. I was merely the first to throw my arms up in a nonchalant shrug.

"Sucks." I say setting the blood beaten gauntlets back onto my hands. "Oh well, us or you. And I'd pick us everytime." I swing my fist towards the girl with hair red as our cloaks, she seems more susceptible to death at the current time being.

[Kaplan]

Day Five

Lorenza Aita
After seeing Hera's face in the sky the previous night, Lorenza wasn't all too fazed. She didn't expect it to be someone strong, like Pierce or Zeus. No, she expected it to be someone like Hera, Raiden or Dragon. After she had gathered so many things from the candy cottage, she expected that she'd be able to do well for the remainder of the day. When the bright stars and silver moon shown in the sky, [however, and the next 'day' began, she was somewhat frightened.

When the fog started to lift, she found herself in a cage, and two of her allies in the same situation, but in different cages. Her heart started pounding out of nerves. The Maze Makers came on the loudspeaker and explained what was happening. If she pushed the button in her cage, one of her allies would be free. Although, should she? It wouldn't free her, and her getting freed was the only way for her to win. There was a cage of grievers, too, and if all the buttons were pressed, they'd all be freed, but they would all have to fight. She cared about her allies, but she had to decide if she cared enough about them to free them with the possibility of not getting out herself, too.

"Zander?" she asked aloud. "Chance?" She took a breath. "I don't know who this will let out, but I'm not going to be the person who leaves their allies to rot, alright? I just hope you guys will do the same for me."

She slammed her fist down on the button to see which of her allies would now be free.


Braylon Yandelle
Waking up in a cage wasn't what I expected to happen the next morning. I remember seeing the face of Hera Leopold among those deemed dead were shown to us and the anthem played. Knowing that meant that Zeus Prank would be quite furious, it made me smirk. Seeing that kid angry was something I found amusing, in a way. I wasn't quite sure why, though. In all honesty, he was rather similar to me in that he seemed to be rather sick-minded. Regardless, I much preferred the company of Charlie, Pierce and Lucy.

Lucy. She was in a cage, too. It was a separate cage, across from mine, and she awoke when I did. A voice came over the loudspeaker. The Maze Makers were speaking to us to explain what was going on in order to break our brief state of baffled confusion. Apparently, the buttons that were in our cages with us would open that of the other runner, freeing them. If we both freed one another, however, we'd have to fight the mutt that resided in the third cage. I wasn't exactly looking forward to that.

Without even speaking to one another, though, as soon as the Maze Makers concluded what they were saying, Lucy pressed her button and my cage door swung open. I looked at her for a moment, wondering why she hadn't even said a word. I stepped out of my cage and spoke to her.

"I hope you know I'm not doing the same," I said. "I can't. I need to get out of this maze alive. I'm the one who needs to win. If you can press the button that quickly without saying a word to me about it, you must want me to win, too. That means I'm leaving you."

That was when I looked into Lucy's eyes one last time. Then, I left the area, never to see her again.


Alexzander Thomas
The conflict continues to seep through the pores of my hardened exterior. Mist seeks to fog the likes of my vision, yet immediately I press past the daze to comprehend the situation unraveling. The cage that confines the likes of my fight. The mysterious predicament that dangles the balance of survival. The voice that slithers through the bars of the cells in explanation of what’s occurring. End is breaching, and too many souls are still exhaling with life. But before I can even comprehend a plan to address to the others, Za-Za’s words cringe to existence - and my prison’s door is released.

Father’s voice demands for me to run without gazing back, but I’m not the selfish coward he sought to raise me as. Eyes jostle over to Chance as he struggles to reach his button and press it. Every day he’s dwindling into the clutch of death, closer and closer. My fingers tempt over my own button. My feet tempt for me to simply leave. However, it’s Chance’s decision to make and not my own.

“What is it that you want, Chance? You can try to keep fighting, or you can die a hero sacrificing yourself. But it’s your decision, not mine.” The structure of my message isn’t controlled by myself, as it tempts him to make this easier for us all. There’s no denying that the odds are surely not in his favor. The little odds he has left though he can give to us in tenfolds. Still it’s not a decision for me to make.

Gesture, words, a mixture of it all, it doesn’t matter as he gets his choice across. A nod softly maneuvers my head in appreciation. “The Maze-Makers may be ruthless, but they’re not savages. It’ll be a peaceful death. And you’ll always be remembered for it.” I speak my peace to him, before nudging my head in the direction Za-Za and I must go. It may be a conclusion for some, but it’s not the end for us all just yet.


Kaydence Aqua
Rejection shakes my head from side to side. How could Salem possibly expect me to not free him? Lips part in desire to deny his claim of sacrifice, yet no words breath across my tongue. How could he do such, but how can I refuse him? My mouth closes in acceptance of my silence, piercing my bottom lip into the clench of my teeth. Solely one person may escape from this nightmare, and he’s pressing for it to be me. What if I disappoint him? What if I leave, purely to be slaughtered tomorrow? Torturing debate claws upon my unspoken thoughts, while I know better then to argue with him. Already I may have cursed wounds upon my Siblings’ hearts, I can’t do it further by dismissing the chance of living for them if only another day.

A nod transfers the maneuver of my gesturing head. Foreign words speak from my dear friend, to be followed with the peace of muteness. A necklace collapses into the palm of my hand, to ignite a sigh to rupture from my lungs in return. Somehow the identical, unknown chant flutters from my own lips, and with that I’m released from the captivity.

Eyes stare upon the tree line I must escape to, burning with the threat of salty tears. But instead of scattering, my feet are pulled to the outline of Salem’s cage. “I’ll never forget you. And if I die in here to, my siblings will always remember you to and what you did for me.” I promise him, pressing my lips between two bars to plant a kiss upon Salem’s cheek. “Wait for me in whatever’s to come. I’ll see you soon.” Is promised as well before I force myself to break away from him.

Hesitation travels my person to the discharge of this circumstance. Tears continue to flood the vision of my eyes, though no droplet collapses. There’s no telling how many steps pass before I gaze back, to see the demise of my choices. A cloudy fog surrounds where I just was, and a sole river trails down my cheek. “Leave in peace, my leading Wizard. Leave in peace. For you shall never leave the pieces of my heart.” And with a bowed head, I travel the path once more.


Dragon Jinx
It took a moment or two for Dragon to realize what was going on. The last thing he could recall was falling asleep after the anthem where Hera's face shown in the sky. Now, instead of lying down where he had drifted off into dreamland, he was somewhere else, and this somewhere else certainly wasn't where he wanted to be. He was in a large, wooden cage with nothing but a single button inside. Then, one of the Maze Makers came over the loudspeaker to explain what was happening. They could release one another from their cages, but would have to fight grievers if they did. If they stayed in the cages, they would die.

Dragon Jinx wasn't ready to die. He was a fighter. He may not have killed anything quite yet, but he would if he had to. When Raiden spoke from the other cage that was across from his own, he said that they'd fight together, and if they died, they'd die together, then asking if Dragon agreed. The boy most certainly agreed. They would be fighting. Raiden pressed the button to release Dragon from his cage, and the door swung open.

"Of course," Dragon said. Then, he pressed the button in his cage to release Raiden, stepping out with his weapon raised.


Charlie Smith
The warmth of his skin still lingers on my awakening skin. The taste of his lips still lick upon my own. The sensation of his touch still tickles my core. Pathetic to admit, but numerous times before I had awoken within a mysterious surroundings - but never when a substance didn’t intoxicate me the night prior, and certainly not alone when it wasn’t my persistence to be left. Yet coldness cradles my exterior when my mind is forced into reality, and confusion greets me though no prior horrid decisions caused such. And to make matters even more complicated, the one who causes my heart to patter in an unusual way is stuttering my name in a cage across from my own.

A clarification rings through the environment, leaning my forehead against one of the bars that imprison me. Not budging my head from it’s rest, my eyes scan over to the buzzing little things that reside as one of our options. Vision then glances to Noelle as her words startle an understanding. It would be just my fortune to be placed within such a predicament.

Another first is having someone contort my heart as this one does. The repetition of her denial cringes my core in a manner I can’t endure - worse then any wound that can impair my skin. It’s beyond imagination what may occur if I were to witness her in physical pain. Why must I care for someone I hardly even know? She probably doesn’t even comprehend the power she holds over me. But sure enough…

A sigh wisps past my lips as I question my thoughts. She has to return to those Rascals she stupidly fell to care for. I can’t watch her get damaged internally, and certainly not externally. Without a second thought my palm presses down on the button, and immediately my voice follows - “Don’t press your button… Go take care of your Rugrats. Don’t worry about me.” I insist rather calmly. My eyes scan back over to her’s, and a smile curves the corners of my lips in reassurance.


Chance Volturi
N/A (all posts on day 5 were fillers for Chance)


Zeus Prank
The giant, salivating, sharp-toothed pig griever that emerged from its cage after Pierce and I were released from our own was not the most appealing thing to look at. I had my hammer in hand to attack it, but before I could, it hit me. The first thing it did was leave a minor gash on my arm. It didn’t hurt too much, but it still wasn’t pleasant. I didn’t find pain to really be pleasant, most of the time. It hit Pierce, too, but I ignored him. I didn’t care how much damage it did to Pierce. I just wanted to kill it and get away with my life.

Pierce referred to me as ‘lover boy’ and said that if I could love a girl after just a few days, I could kill this ‘freak of nature’. I clenched the fist that didn’t hold my hammer tightly. Clearly, he didn’t understand. I’d just have to explain it to him. Although, there wasn’t exactly much time. The thing was bound to attack again if I didn’t just swing.

Before I could even swing at it, though, it had fallen to the ground. Pierce had killed it in one shot. How, I wasn’t entirely sure. I just knew that that wouldn’t make the Maze Makers very happy. Now that it was dead, though, I turned to look Pierce in the eyes.

“I never said I loved her,” I told him. “I said I cared about her. If I’m being entirely blunt with you, I don’t even know what it feels like to love someone, so I wouldn’t even know if I did love her while she was alive. Thanks to you, I’ll never know for sure.” Then, I turned away from him and left.


Raiden Llyod
Much to my relief Dragon hit the button letting me out. I never doubted him, but I wouldn't blame him if he didn't. I would understand. Not every can make it out of this alive. Only one can be the winner, and I want that person to be me.

But soon the griever is coming. The gate opens, and I'm terrified. Every part of me is shaking, and I don't now what to do, but I can't do anything -

It strikes, and Dragon falls.

My world is crashing. I don't now where Noelle is. Dragon is dead just lie Tina and Kendrick, and I'm going to die too.

"Dragon!" I scream at the top of my lungs pressing a unicorn horn between my fingers. He's my friend, and he's dead just like my other friends.

I aim at the thing afraid, but I stand strong and tall just like I imagine Dragon would've. He may be dead, but I'll fight for him always and forever. I have him, Tina, and Kendrick by my side.

It's not for myself that I fight anymore because I fight for them.


Salem Fysco
Salem knows power when he sees it, and this is it. When someone has the complete capability to control another's actions, when you make another person feel utterly powerless. Up until now he's only known such a thing from being the powerful. He's seen seas of people split upon his arrival. He's heard songs sung and chants called in his dedication. He's seen statues rise with his face upon them. He knows that in this moment each and everyone of them is watching him, waiting for him to do something they know only he can do.

His fingers fold around the vile of ashes he's held close all this time, used all this time to obtain even more power. He knows all the incantations and all the spells but he knows only one he believes suites this entire situation. For a moment he closes his eyes feeling the final flow of energy from his parent's separated souls as he hears the beat of his heart beneath his chest. When his eyes open he's far from a frightened little boy, he's the true Legionnaire of the Coven.

His enlightened eyes turn to the blonde girl he now calls friend as his head shakes in simple refusal of her request. "No." He says soft but loud enough for her to hear. "We'll die. Both of us aren't gong to die here." His hand reaches for the button by his side. There's a moment of absolute silence, the calm before the final storm swell. His hand presses down releasing Kaydence Aqua from her confinement.

"You have your siblings to get back to. I told you blond bonds are incredibly powerful. Its best not to send them into sorrow by breaking them with death. Even if you are adopted."

Salem stops for a moment breathing in deeply before making one last request of his friend.

"I'm going to cast a spell. It will bring me peace and send me not to death, but to ascension. It will ensure this is not the last time we speak Kaydence Aqua. But I need your help, it takes two to cast it."

Its a weird feeling which washes over the thirteen year old. He always imagined the days he would lead and teach every corner of the coven, he didn't realize he only would have a single student. Still, he has felt the power pure within her heart from the day they met. He knows beyond any doubt the abilities of the coven run within her veins.

"I'm going to say the incantation and you just have to repeat it. But you can't just say it, you have to feel it. Feel the energy of everything around us, from us to the trees to the grievers. I know you can do it, you just have to believe it and believe me."

Without another word the young brunette haired boy moves to the center of his cage. He closes his eyes and pushes his hands slowly forward in the figure of a diamond. His arms once fully extended close together and his fingers lock before slowly releasing and falling to his sides.

"Aliis partibus animae una, et ducibus inciperent anchoras. Sol et luna columbae mittere praesidio inire perpetua una dormienda."

As the final words of the sacred spell leave his lips his eyes open and look to Kaydence. Before she speaks her portion he removes the necklace from him and throws it across to her. A final gift of power from a soon to be ascended Legionnaire.


Lucy Yolei
N/A (all posts on day 5 were fillers for Lucy)


Noelle Vangart
The clear consequences of our drastic decisions comes crashing down over our skin in seconds. The little beasts are unlike any Grievers I've come across yet but their powers are without question. A startled screech breaks my lips for a moment as I swear I can feel my bone split. Swiftly my eyes instinctively find Charlie, but why am I so worried over just another girl in the same dangerous situation. Maybe its all the adrenaline or the endless feeling of fear but its driving me out of my normal state of control under pressure. I have to get a grip, so I grab my blood beaten chain and look away from the blonde. For now I have to keep Raiden and Dragon on the forefront of my mind.

"Come on, we need to kill this things faster! Cover me!"


Pierce Vilamanix
It takes no time at all for hell to descend from the reaches of the Capitol. Branches break sending shock through my skin as the monstrosity we must face fires forward from its enclosure. In an instant I am thrown to the ground gasping for breath as pain prickles up from my ankle. "Fuck!" I say loudly fingers barely being able to touch the broken bone. My eyes shoot a glare towards the large griever and it freezes, it looks right back at me. I feel my spine stiffen with something I haven't felt yet in this hell hole. Fear.

Forcing myself to my feet I try to hide the sound of fright in my voice. "We have to kill that, thing, fast." Its all I can manage to say in between my shaking breaking breaths of pain and worry. Up until now danger seemed smaller, things seemed safer. Now it is able to stare back into my eyes and send one clear message to my brain. It will do anything to kill me. My jaw tightens mirroring my forming fists.

A smirk despite the worry forms across my face. I chose to fight for this. I've pushed myself to this stage of danger for a reason, for a different kind of life. Fear settles into fury, into determination. I will do whatever it takes to get the life I want. I will do whatever it takes to get out of Twelve. I force weight onto my broken ankle with a wince. "Let's go lover boy. If you can love a girl after a few days you can help me kill this freak of nature."

[Kaplan]

Day Six

Lorenza Aita
The anthem blared to life and awoke Lorenza from her not-so-deep sleep. It had been hard enough for her to close her eyes and feel safe. It was even more difficult for her to actually rest, as she couldn’t stop thinking about the fact that they’d left Chance to die. She regretted letting Zander do so. She just wished that more than one of them could live. It didn’t seem right leaving some of their alliance behind.

Besides, they didn’t even know how Chance would die in that cage.

Regardless, he was gone now. That couldn’t be changed, no matter what. She knew that only one of them could make it out of the Maze alive, and she wanted it to be her. If she wanted to survive, all of the others had to die. That was the unfortunate and hard truth.

Then, when Lorenza saw each face, she clenched her fist at one of them. Salem. Salem was dead. Someone had left him in his cage to die, and she didn’t know who it was, but she had a guess. Where else could Kaydence have been?

She didn’t hate Kaydence or Zander for what they did, though. No, she was mad, but she didn’t hate them. She’d still protect them as much as she possibly could until it came down to the end. Today was a day where they’d certainly need that protection, too. The Maze Makers had come booming onto the loudspeaker and stated that there would be a feast. That wasn’t something Za-Za particularly wanted, but it was inevitable. They would all have to fight.

When they arrived at the area where the feast would take place, Za-Za held her candy cane knife in hand. She was ready to strike anyone who went after her allies, or whomever she needed to in order to survive. As soon as she saw movement, she was prepared. Attacks started flying and she was ready. Za-Za lunged.


Braylon Yandelle
Darkness was always present in this maze, and I liked it. The only light we really got was from what I assumed were the fake moon and stars that were shining down on us. The anthem showed the ones who had fallen, including the one I left behind- Lucy. I didn't regret it, though. She had died because of her own stupidity, which was letting me out first. I wasn't going to risk my life to save her. I wanted to be the one to get out of this maze alive.

I would be the victor if I had a choice in the matter.

Lail's voice boomed across the arena the next 'morning', waking me from my sleep and telling us all that there was to be a feast. Now that was something I was ready for. The last time we'd encountered other tributes in such a great number was at the bloodbath when I killed Horus. Maybe I could kill again.

Pierce and Charlie would be there. I knew that. Now, the three of us just had to make it out of there alive. No weapons struck me when I first arrived, but they hit Charlie and Pierce. I would fight back and protect my allies, at least for now. Pierce was likely the more useful of the two, so I decided it was best for me to target his attacker. I decided to use the same weapons I'd used to kill Horus- my unicorn horns. I threw one in Zeus's direction. I was ready to kill again.

"Hey kid. Wanna go out like Horus did?"


Alexzander Thomas
Desperation pierces from her lips, and I can feel the rush of the coldness Father bred me with. With the final hour breaching closer with every tick, sensitivities can no long seep within my core. Surely I’ll protect my allies as long as it’s reasonable - but for any others, they’ll solely be met with the harshness of my ruthless exterior. “Not Raiden, Zander. You weren’t even close.” I joke with a chuckle at her minor infliction upon me. Finally the rest see me as my Father desires them to, yet it’s the ones who scarcely pose as a threat that seek to challenge me.

Blood seeps a stain onto my shirt in a slice that will surely need treatment soon, but for now it’s meek. “What a cute little paper cut you gave me.” I grins wickedly at the one who tried me, with a warning tone to all that can hear. Now it’s time to ensure myself or another from my group makes it past the rest, and out of this damn hell hole.


Kaydence Aqua
Eyes roll at the comments that breach from Zander’s lips. What was once a relatable Allie, has turned into a overly-cocky Career who I scarcely recognize. Least Za-Za comprehends an intelligent strategy to this our dilemma of ours, clawing for the dying just as I am. “Your beef is with me, Noelle. Why don’t you come fight me like the women we are?” Is suggested, though purely in desire to divert the attention onto my self before Zander buries himself a grave he can’t climb out of. My aim doesn’t transfer as well however, as I continue my focus towards the one who’s also itching for her death by the sound of her words. “Better decide fast, Noelle, before I kill another friend of yours!” I warn just as my knife flies once more.


Charlie Smith
The failure is real, and the personal disappointment can be massively felt. An angered breath exhales from my lungs, as I’m internally lecturing myself with no actual words. And to present matters worse, the slashes keep craving for my exterior - just as the pesky little Dragon were seeking to yesterday. Destruction is breaching close, but will I outsmart this destiny of mine once more? Least words I can comically reply to flutter from one of my Opponents.

“Back off? But we’re just playing. And clearly I’m losing.” Laughter ruptures from myself at myself, as I shake my head in disbelieve. “My turn!” Another sadistic grin crosses my lips, before I advance of my round.


Zeus Prank
I was alone. It was cold. It was… peaceful. Every face that showed in the sky brought relief to me. Dragon Jinx was gone. Good, I’d always hated kids. Salem, too. Less little minions to deal with. Unfortunately, I was part of the reason that Pierce was still alive. I hated to think that. I hated him with a passion. I hated him more than I hated the kids.

Lail’s voice boomed across the Maze we were in, shaking us awake what I assumed was the next ‘morning’. It was announced that there would be a feast, and I immediately was more awake than before. I rubbed the sleep from my eyes and sat up where I was. I knew I had to get on the move, soon, too. If I didn’t make it to the feast, I’d be killed regardless.

I had my hammer in hand when I arrived. It didn’t take long for me to feel pain, either.

”Hey lover boy.” His voice was like a snake, hissing in my ear. Pierce had struck me already, but I wouldn’t let him kill again. No, I couldn’t let him take me down that easily. Not like he did to the others I’d seen die. He killed Hera, the one person I cared about and who seemed to care for me in return, but I wouldn’t let myself be the next on his list. Instead, he’d be on mine.

”Shut the fuck up, Pierce,”

My hammer was ready to collide with the boy from Twelve, and I wouldn’t be holding back.


Raiden Llyod
Nothing makes sense anymore. All I can see over and over is Dragon dying because I wanted to fight together. It's all my fault he's dead. It's my fault Tina was mauled by the bear. It's my fault Kendrick died in the bloodbath. It's all my fault. Everything is my fault, but I'm still alive. Still trapped inside the maze, and I can't focus on everything being my fault. I knew coming in that everyone I befriended would have to die if I wanted any chance of survival -

I just never thought it would hurt this bad.

I don't know what else to do, so I tuck myself away in the pits of my sleeping bag. It's kept me comfortable for so long, but now I'm alone. Nobody is around, and I don't know what else to do. Part of me wants to find Noelle, yet I'm so afraid of what she'll do when she sees that Dragon isn't with me. How can I tell her that it's my fault he's dead? How can I tell her that I watched the stupid griever kill him like it was nothing? But I can tell her that I killed that stupid thing. That I destroyed it by piercing it's neck with a unicorn horn.

But I'm walking around in his armor. I took it from him because he didn't need it anymore, and the wolf destroyed mine. It's the only reason I'm alive.

Quietly, I stuff myself inside the sleeping bag trying to find some warmth. Baby bear curls in beside me, and it puts off enough heat to keep me from shivering. He's a friend, and I want to keep him alive always and forever.

Right as I'm drifting off to sleep, the anthem blares. It hurts seeing Dragon's face in the sky, but this time I do not cry. I'm done crying. I'm done trying to care. I'm done getting my heart broken by losing people I call friend.

But I do not see Noelle's face in the sky.

Part of me is very relieved while the other part of me just wants to crawl somewhere and die so I don't have to apologize over and over for what I have done.

I wrap one of my arms around baby bear, and together we both drift off to sleep.

I'm thrown awake in the morning by an invitation to a feast, and I know that I have to go. I have to do something. To see Noelle for what might be the last time.

"Come on, baby bear, let's go."

My pace is slow because I don't want to lose the only friend I have right now.

When I see them, I want to run to Noelle. I want to just fall into her arms crying because I don't know what else to do. Yet I stand my ground. I try to keep myself as calm as possible. I feel baby bear fall behind me, and I want to keep him safe too. He's a friend. Someone I actually care for.

I wrap my hand around a unicorn horn putting the others where I can keep them safe. I turn my head looking baby bear straight in the eyes and whisper as quietly as possible;

"Don't worry, I'll keep you safe. I promise."


Noelle Vangart
I have no time for the problems this blonde boy presents. His skills show as again he sends me to the ground for an instant of pain, but I refuse to stay stuck in the slick snow. Across the graveyard I see the boy I'm desperately trying to reach, the boy I will reach no matter what. I almost even miss Charlie completely missing our opponent. I get her injuries are impairing her but right now only desperation is drawing at my actions.

"Be careful and hit straight! I'd rather get both of you out of here!" I say turning my head to her before looking back to the sassy career who thinks that there is no way in hell a District Twelve can stop him. Glares glint from my eyes. "I wasn't calling you smart ass. Also enough paper cuts and then it will kill you. I can promise you that."


Pierce Vilamanix
I have to give the jackass credit as the storm surges around us bringing blood forth from beneath beaten bodies. He's tough, but his tongue lacks the same sense of smooth sharpness mine is able to create upon command. Basically, the boy has proven himself a worthy opponent but I've grown bored with toying with him over the past few days. Already I've taken away the one he had to keep him contempt lost here in the dark. Now I simply need to send his ship down to the same depths as her sleeping soul within the River Styx.

My fingers furl to fresh fists as a new smirk crawls across my lips. "Shutting up has never really been my thing lover boy." I say hoping to incite the anger to increase his sloppiness in fighting. "But I'm happy to help you never have to hear my voice again." This time I send a wink his way before my fist comes from the opposite side of the distraction. Always best to remember the skills which have gotten me this far in a fight such as this.