Monlo Helleborus

### Family

Maroon (Grandfather/Deceased), Dust (Father/Missing), Sahara (Mother), Bluebell (Aunt, Deceased), Jasmine (Older sister/Deceased), Fathom (Older brother), Aspen (Younger brother, Deceased)

*Everything on this blasted roof reminded Monlo of things. They remembered the one fateful night when Monlo and Aspen climbed onto their roof and stargazed. It was so peaceful. If only he didn't loosen up. Then, maybe, their family would still be there. Maybe if Bluebell won her battle, their family would still be there. Maybe, just maybe, if Carmen loved them, then Monlo would still be there.*

*"Oh, I do." Monlo meowed, blinking back tears."Its a cruel game of love- you love someone, only for them to leave you in a ditch. Alone with those .. blasted memories. Ever had your heart shattered before your eyes, Flint? Ever felt the burning pain eat away at your happiness? Ever sacrificed everything- just for them to leave you?"*

Where shall we start? Lets see..

Monlo is a cruel, two-faced cat. You may think that you know them, but you're dead wrong. This cat will do anything to get their way- and will resort to anything, and I mean anything, to do so. Even kill a friend if thats what it takes. Monlo often comes off as calm, kind- and sometimes even caring. However, within, there is a broken monster with a bloody paw. (hinthint)

Oftentimes, Monlo falls in love. But even love cannot bring out the true self. They've fallen in love with many cats before- Soy, Thistle, Carmen, Azazel, Aelia- and yet, in all those relationships (except Azazel?) they've gotten rejected and replaced. This is what fuels Monlo's anger and what changes them for the worst during the Games. This is also where their 'revenge-y' side comes from.

### Backstory

Monlo had a terrible childhood. Which is why their trust is limited to each cat- and is why they oftentimes keep secrets from close cats. When Monlo was only just nine years old, (human years?) their aunt Bluebell passed away. Their family grieved- and was on the brink of collapse. Until Aspen died. He was found lying dead in a patch of grass by a tree. As well as a deep slash at his throat. Monlo's family kept silent about Aspen's murder, and instead reported that the cat fell off the tree and broke his neck. That was the last straw- and soon, Monlo started coming home to a quiet home with no Aspen, Bluebell, Maroon, Dust, or Jasmine to comfort them.

Despite the depressing backstory, Monlo still smiled time-to-time. They talked to Thyme at the border, stole pastries with Soy, and sometimes planted a flower or two. But soon the worm and the beetle made their way into Monlo's life again. Soy, the cat whomst Monlo loved, rejected them and disappeared from their life. This hurt Monlo a lot- however they respected Soy's choice.. on some level.

### Events

As the previous tribute exited the stage, Valeria, the interviewer, called out, "You know them, you love them, please give it up for Monlo from District 8!" The crowd roared. Excitement was high in the air, making it quite difficult to breathe. Swallowing as much air as Monlo could inhale, the dark tabby slipped into the stage. Seemingly just a shadow amongst the bright light. But you would be dead wrong.

Monlo paused, standing atop the stage. The spotlight fixed firmly onto the shape. Pressuring them even further. Monlo took another deep breath, trying not to panic. The hated being the center of attention- especially when that attention was the attention of the Capitol cats. They didn't know a lot about them- other then the fact that they loved death and gory battles. Maybe they should start out with some sort of 'I-love-these-games' introduction? Maybe- they weren't quite sure. Blinking, Monlo adverted their attention and gaze towards the interviewer, Valeria. Monlo's gaze was filled with emotion. Happiness, curiosity- heck, even anger.

"Nice to meet you, Monlo!" Valeria's sickly-sweet voice cheered. "My first question is, how has training been going for you?" Monlo barely heard Valeria- too busy trying to keep themselves from running away. Forced excitement flickered in Monlo's gaze. "The holograms are too easy, the 'trees' are too short, and the pools aren't deep enough. Nothings been a challenge at all." The crowd laughed, and so did Valeria. Monlo felt a wave of relief wash over them. At least they didn't fail miserably..- "Well then, I'm sure whatever obstacles the Arena throws at you, you'll be ready! From what I've heard, those training stations are quite difficult." Valeria chirped up. Interrupting Monlo from their thoughts. Smiling, the interviewer asked again."What do you think will be your greatest strength in the Games?" That was a hard question. Monlo had many strengths- which were all useful. "Planning ahead." They finally meowed. Heart caught in their throat."Trap-making as well. Now that I think about it, I certainly do not want anyone to walk into it. Don't want them dying so gruesomely." Monlo chuckled lightly. They wanted to facepalm themselves so badly now. "Maybe I shoulder make them a teesny bit less graphic. We have young audiences amongst us as well- I believe." As if on cue, a bunch of kits in the crowd jumped up and waved their paws around, calling out excitedly while their parents tried to quiet them down. "I'm sure they don't mind- plus, now that you've mentioned it, we're all dying to know what you have planned." Valeria smiled. "What do you think the Arena will be like?" Monlo paused yet again. "No idea." The dark tabby flicked their tail. Thoughts rushed in their head, threatening to pour out into the crowd."I suppose there is always some body of water and form of food out there. Otherwise we'll all starve to death. And wheres the fun in that?" Monlo's eyes slightly narrowed. There shou- /will/ be something. And yet, the doubt remained. Monlo didn't trust the Capitol. For all they knew it could be a wasteland. A terrible, dry one. They felt their heart hollow out. All the emotion and stuff scooped out by the single thought. *Think positively.* Monlo reminded themselves. And yet, how could they? Monlo was about to be sent into an arena of death- *No.* They thought, frustration coursing through their veins. *I will survive. I will win. No matter the cost.* Blinking, Monlo looked back at the interviewer."Of course! The battles are the fun part." And just like that, the buzzer went off, and Valeria turned back to the crowd. "That's all the time we have for Monlo, folks. Give a round of applause!" She yowled, the crowd clapping and hooting their excitement.

### Training Center/Before The Chaos

At Monlo's first few days at the training center, they had found out that Thyme- one of their friends whomst they had met by the border, was also reaped. They were shocked and somewhat refused to accept the truth. Later that day, Monlo met Thistle and Aelia. The nonbinary cat suddenly began to develop feelings for Thistle- however they never got to confess as the shecat had accidentally rejected them. And a few days after the rejection, Thistle fell in love with Arrow. Monlo was furious at Thistle, and were heartbroken for a few days- however, they quickly got over it. Then came Carmen. Although they only interacted once, Monlo came to love this cat. However, it wasn't long until Monlo's heart was broken again. Carmen had never loved Monlo. This hurt Monlo a lot. After all, what did Aiden have that Monlo didn't? That, my friends, is what drove them to do unspeakable acts.

Then, Monlo met Aiden. A cat whomst they would grow to hate. Their interactions were terrible, and they always seemed to end in a couple of scratches or sour faces. You see, Monlo despised Aiden not just because of Carmen- but because he reminded them too much of Aspen. Their deceased younger brother. The same brother whomst was murdered.

Throughout Monlo's short life in the training center, they were quite close with Acacia and Del. So close, in fact, that they had begun to view them as friends instead of just victors. However- this relationship had not lasted long, of course. Because in just a few weeks, Monlo would be sent into the arena to die.

**Monlo's Advice**

*Flint sat alone in the garden, sitting on a small stone bench and gazing at the stars with her remaining eye, holding her necklace to her heart, she sighed softly as a star streaked across the navy sky, reflecting it’s blinding light on her eye. Unbeknownst to Flint, a dark shadow snuck up behind the unsuspecting cat, patting her back ever so gently. There, stood Monlo. Their expression was neutral- not smiling, nor frowning. Nothing."What are you doing?" Flint jumped at the sound of their voice, she turned around and her expression turned soft. “Oh! Monlo. Uhhh just.....thinking” She stammered, fiddling with her necklace. "Thinking about what? How you shattered Corvid's heart? About Thistles and Aelia's relationship? Or just Aelia?" Careful. Flint staggered back, looking somewhat shocked. “Ummm, excuse me?” Monlo chuckled lightly. "Sorry about that~ Just wanted to get straight to the point. Why stalk when you could just pounce-?" They continued. "I just wanted to know how you felt about Corvid, Aelia- oh and Thistle." Flint stepped back, confused “What are you trying to say?” She challenged, her teeth bared and eyes narrowed, even though on the inside she started to get really nervous. Monlo's smile fell. "Ah, i zoí eínai gemáti thávmata, (Life is full of miracles) Flint. I was just wondering about your thoughts on Corvid's feelings towards you, Aelia, and- of course, Aelia and Thistles current .. feelings for each other." Raising a brow, they added."Surely you know about the two?" Flints voice came up in whimpers. “Please....don’t mention Corvid” She begged. “And of course I know about Thistle and Aelia.....but....Aelia loves me.....” "Thats how I thought about Carmen." Monlo snapped, the overwhelming wave of pain crashing over their heart once more."And look what happened to us- me, now." Flint looked up at them, pain shining in her eyes. “This....this is different.....we...we love each other..!" Monlo sighed. "Aelia and Thistle love each other as well. So, really, whats the difference?" Flints expression became even more painful. "I honestly thought that Aelia would tell you. But she has reasons her reasons- I hope." Monlo meowed, pity striking though their voice like a knife cutting through butter. Smooth, and yet awfully painful- for the butter, that is. Flint was tearing up now “You-You don’t know what you’re talking about.......” "Oh, I do." Monlo meowed, blinking back tears."Its a cruel game with no reward. You love someone, only for them to leave you in a ditch. Alone with those .. blasted memories. Ever had your heart shattered before your eyes, Flint? Ever sacrificed everything- just for them to leave you?" Flint shook her head, tears started streaming down her face. “You....you ignorant. And you’re just trying to scare me” she growled. "Scare you? Why would I even bother scaring you?" They snapped."Scare you into what? I don't give a damn about your relationship with Aelia. Consider this a warning. Keep going down the rabbit hole of love if you'd like. But you will be hurt. And there is no limit to suffering." Flint looked them dead in the eyes, tears running down her face. “I know what I’m doing” "Do you, though?" Monlo pressed, narrowing their eyes. Flint was taken aback by this /but...what if I don’t? I haven’t even seen her all day....../ she felt her ears droop and her head lowered defeatedly. "I think you should go pay Corvid a visit." Monlo meowed, looking up at the stars. Flint shook her head sadly, tears dripping onto the stone pathway in the garden. “...No....I....can’t do that.." "Why not?" Monlo raised a brow."Aren't the two of you friends? Why are you avoiding him, Flint? Are you.. **afraid**?" Flint was resisting the urge to smack their face “......” "I see. Well, I suppose that you'd enjoy my absence. Good night. Oh- and if you come across Aelia or Corvid, tell them I said hi." Flint kept her eyes on the ground, trying to stop the flow of tears down her face “Yeah.....bye”*

**Monlo-loge 1**

Silence. Just.. silence. Just like Monlo liked. Valentines Day was nearly over. The.. reminder was nearly over. Their suffering was nearly over. Finally. No more.. couples parading the halls with chocolates and cards. And none of them came to Monlo. None. That hurt. But then again, who even wants to bother with Monlo out of all cats? No one. Again, that hurt. A lot. But who cares? If Monlo cries then and there, no one will bother. No one will ask. In the end, they'll just be chasing others around. Going down the endless rabbit hole of love and heartbreak. Shattering and rebuilding themselves over and over again. Monlo was fed up with rebuilding themselves- but they were too scared not to. They had to keep going.. otherwise, the entire building with crumble down. But that was just one reason. If they changed, what will Fern think? Bear? Del? Everyone- how will they react? Monlo had already lost too much. They didn't need to lose another friend or two. Especially now. When friends were rare. And yet, then begged the question; were the two (or three-) truly their friends? Surely, they are? Surely..? No. Of course not. They must be lying. Pretending to be something they weren't. Right? Right. Maybe? Monlo didn't know. They never knew. They never knew about Carmen, they never knew about Aspen, they never knew- and will never know, what love is. No, Monlo knew- or did they? They had no idea how it feels when another cat you love loves you back. And probably won't. Ever. Sure, there was Oleander- but.. she wasn't the one. She wasn't.. y'know, someone Monlo loved. Don't get me wrong, they loved her- but not in the way she loved them. Which made Monlo feel even more guilty. They hadn't brought Olly anything. But neither did she. Was she waiting for Monlo? Maybe. Most likely.. Right? Or was she also pretending to be something she wasn't? They felt their heart drop. Falling down the abyss. Wrecking the building- destroying its floors and walls in the process. Forcing tears to stream down Monlo's cheeks. They didn't know what anything was. And never will. They'll never know. Ever. Never. Right? Right. As much as Monlo hoped they weren't, but they were. Finally. Something Monlo was right about. Depression threatened to break the dam, which the dark tabby panicked- they couldn't cry here. Not here. Not there- but behind closed walls and doors. Somewhere where no one can bother them. Where they were alone.. That is, until the games begin.

**Therapy #1**

Monlo's heart was going wild- threatening to burst out of their chest. They rushed through the hallways, looking for Room 333. So far, nothing. 'tis till a lanky tomcat with a white jacket exited from a room in front of them. Monlo took a step back, surprisement hitting them all too slowly. He turned around, eyeing Monlo with a set of piercing eyes. For a few moments, awkward silence. Until- "Oh my!" The cat exclaimed, eyes widening."Monlo Helleborus, isn't it? Pleasure to meet you! You're looking for Dr. Velan, correct?" The dark tabby nodded, nervous- obviously. With a curtsy, the therapists assistant (?) opened the door for Monlo, shutting it behind them. With a shudder, they surveyed the office. In the very middle, stood a desk- alongside with a pair of plastic chairs. A long rug cushioned the rough floor- its bright colors were like daggers to Monlo's eyes. And, sitting beside the desk, was a white tom. His paws tapping atop the wooden desk. At first, his gaze was fixed on a stack of papers- 'tis until Monlo stepped into the office. The white tom smiled, adverting his gaze onto the dark tabby."Well, well, well. I was waiting for you to show up." He meowed, sliding a truckload of papers onto the floor. In a flash, his facial expression turned darker. The smile on his lips fading out of existence."Do you blame yourself?" Monlo was taken aback by this. Fury emerging once more."What?" "Well, its quite common for cats to feel a sense of.. guilt." Confusion tore through the anger- how much did he know? "What are you talking about?" Monlo stammered.

"The accident."

**Bitter Ending**

Azazel growled and murmured to himself as he trained with the holograms, training at the hardest mode. He thought about what Del Segna had said- up until now, he had been training on the average mode, and as much as he hated to admit it....she was right. If he wanted to win, he needed to train for the arena as hardcore as possible. Azazel yelped as a hologram came out from nowhere, completely taking him by surprise. As quick as a viper, it scored it's claws across his throat. He got up, shaking his pelt as he began to step off with narrowed eyes. The Arena wasn't too far from now. He really needed to train better- or maybe.....he wouldn't make it. Monlo eyed Azazel from a rounded table, studying his movement and reflexes. Hey, he wasn't doing terrible. Thats for sure. Bit sloppy, though. Sighing, Monlo abandoned their mint tea, the golden feather behind their ears still in the light breeze. Although the two were not on the best of terms, Monlo did not dare confiscate the feather. After all, it had so much emotion poured into it- and not only that, but it had such a wholesome history..- They'd rather give it back instead. Azazel looked up, noticing Monlo. Instantaneously, a chill went down his spine, and he narrowed his eyes further. He tried to avoid them, keeping his head down. Their heart dropped. But they instantly pulled it back up where it belonged. Azazel was still angry at them. Big surprise. Ears flattening, Monlo continued to approach the tomcat- gently pulling out the feather and holding it between their paws."Hey Grouch Guy. Remember the feather?" Monlo meowed, their tone bittersweet. He looked up, eyes dripping with ice. If they were planning on doing something with the feather, he would give them heII. "What do you want, Monlo?" he hissed, lashing his tail. "If you plan on attacking me again, you're mistaken." Monlo growled. Impatience driving them to the brink of fury."No, idiot. I'm not as stupid as you may think that I am." Without another word, they dropped the feather onto the floor."Take it. Its yours anyways." Azazel's eyes widened, his fur puffing up with fury until he looked twice his normal size. "Are you /serious?/" he screeched, claws unsheathed. "You had the audacity to come up and talk to me after /attacking/ me for no reason, only to return the greatest gift I could have given you?!" He stepped forward, a dark shadow looming over him as he stared into Monlo's eyes with fury. His vision began to turn red with pure anger. "You know what, Monlo?" he spat. "I can't believe /I/ was stupid enough to ever believe that you were a good cat. What /happened/ to you?! You were one of my best friends! You were kind! Smart! You actually cared about me!" He shut his eyes, fury boiling like lava inside his chest until he finally blurted out the last thing he wanted to say. "How could I ever have *loved you*?!" That hurt. But really, how could anyone be hurt by facts? "I wouldn't mind repeating history again." Monlo growled."And, if you'd like, I can go shove this crap into the trash." Empty words, empty threats. Azazel recoiled a bit, his fury subsiding. But just for a moment. Staring down at the golden feather, and then back up at Monlo....he felt his heart break. For a second time. But this time....he intended *to do something.* Screeching, he unsheathed his claws and swiped his claws across Monlo's cheek, his anger finally consuming him. The dark tabby didn't move. Didn't strike back. Didn't speak. Perhaps this is what they deserved. They've been a terrible cat, no matter how much they wanted to deny it- it was true. Maybe two wrongs did make a right- in this situation, that is. Muscles tensing, they prepared for the next strike. Azazel raised his paw, ready to strike once more....but stopped. He lowered his paw slightly, eyes still widened. He sighed and picked up the feather, putting it in his pouch quickly. Azazel stared deep into Monlo's eyes. "Don't talk to me, Monlo. Ever again. I don't want to see your face anymore." He began to turn away. "If you come near me or my allies again....I won't hesitate any longer." Staring at the floor with narrowed eyes, Azazel walked away.

**Monlo-loge 2**

The holograms buzzed into life, its bright yellow light burning Monlo's eyes. But they stayed, trying as best as they could to ignore the pain. A familiar figure appeared before their eyes, a figure that they had been long gone from their life. Jasmine. A rush of anger clouded Monlo's mind, choking them. Their eyes grew into narrowed slits, frustrated. Why now? For an entire decade, Jasmine has been missing from Monlo's life. She abandoned them; just to live a life of comfort. with that Peter boy. A tinge of sadness tainted their expression. Digging itself deep into Monlo's heart, scooping out all those difficult emotions- and revealing longing. A longing to go back, when Jasmine was always by their side. The yellow figure stared at Monlo, her gaze solemn. Regret lingered in her glitchy form, and guilt washed over the stubborn cat once more."Why?" The pale she-cat on the other end froze. As if she was pondering the same question as well. No answer. Of course."Why?" Monlo repeated, their tone demanding. Jasmine continued to stare, her gaze dropping into an even deeper sadness."Stay safe, Mon-Mon. The games will be hard, hard on you and me. You'll get through it! I'm sure you will. You're strong, brave, kind.." Monlo was none of those words. And the slight hint of hesitation was the fuel to their fire."Shut up." Monlo growled, their claws scraping the rough surface of the marble."You abandoned me, you abandoned everyone! Just to never feel the pangs of hunger ever again! And /now/ you come back?!" How dare she."I don't need you, or your.. your excuses to win the games! Or any of your hollow compliments." Without waiting for an answer, Monlo ripped the tablet apart, slamming it against the floor countless times. And even then, they felt no satisfaction whatsoever. And just like that, their anger morphed into guilt once more. Why did they do that? Monlo was scared, thats why. And stubborn. They were scared that Jasmine would reveal things to the Capitol. And too stubborn to try and have a somewhat decent conversa- no. Monlo *deserved* to be angry and unforgiving. This is Jasmine we're talking about. As hard as they tried to be angry, despair plummeted Monlo into the darkness once more. They really did have nothing to return to. There must've been a reason why Jasmine called. She would never do such thing.. unless- More tears ran down Monlo's cheeks. Hes dead. The last member of their family- gone. And they would be here, withering away in the bloodbath. Away from Uncle, and away from everything that made Monlo Monlo. And yet, amidst the despair, there was a cold determination. They were going to try and win anyhow, even if the only thing left back home is a grave.

**Gamemaker Session**

Monlo pushed pass thousands of equipment. Taking minor glances at pretty much everything. Nothing could catch their eye- and nothing could get them a good score, or anything. Blood pounded in Monlo's head, panic tore into their chest, making it difficult to breathe. However, in that complicated moment, ideas began to form. Taking a small peak behind the black curtains, Monlo noticed that their Gamemaker session seemed to be some sort of water obstacle course.. thingy. So, why not add a little something to it. With a bit of hesitation, the nonbinary cat placed the hologram projectile thingy onto the floor beside the course, adjusting its settings as high as it could go. In the process, Monlo got a lot of 'this is dangerous' warnings. And yet, they continued on with the settings, tapping confirm at the end. Muscles tensing, Monlo slipped out of the room. Heart pounding. Thank God they were alone in that room. Falling onto the floor, the nonbinary cat took several deep breaths, as if trying to ready themselves for the challenge. Determination ran through Monlo's veins like blood. They ought to get a good score- no, an amazing one. After all, one day it may as well be sponsors that save their life someday. Unbeknownst to Monlo, there was a sudden shuffling in the obstacle course room, signaling the fact that the Gamemakers were already there, setting up cameras and readjusting their makeup. Monlo snapped to reality at the sudden smell of perfume, and panic drifted into their head once more. Luckily, they managed to calm themselves down.. Or at least, make themselves seem like they were calm. Some cat cleared their throat, a signal that Monlo could step out into the room now. Taking another deep breath, the nonbinary cat abided the signal, stepping inside and taking a good look at the interviewers. They were all plain looking. Some looked very, and I mean very bored. Poor guys. Must hate their job. Monlo adverted their gaze onto the obstacle course, a tige of nervousness sliced through their thoughts. And yet, they pushed on, casually heading over to the start, where they paused- eyeing the Gamemakers for a signal to start, which then they replied with a curt nod. Muscles tensing, Monlo breezed through the first stage, which were really just platforms to jump on. The second stage, however, was more complicated. It was a rather large, blocky wall. And not only that, but Monlo could hear machinery on the other side. Holograms and some.. something else. Without a second to waste, Monlo threw themselves at the wall, gracefully managing up and onto the top. Surveying the platforms below. Many punching bags were spread across the dozen platforms, blocking sight of many of the dangers that lurk in those tight spaces. Monlo was ready to leap down, however a much smarter idea made its way to the surface. Why go down, when you could go up? Balancing out their strength and weight onto all four paws and tail, Monlo leaped onto the closest punching bag, not even waiting to stop. And just like that, the dark tabby breezed through the first few platforms. On the fourth, however, Monlo ran into a problem. On this very platform, was a hologram. But not just any hologram, a very dangerous hologram. And considering the small amount of space there was.. Monlo would never be able to face it down without falling into the water. A few seconds passed by, and a new idea circled around their head. Got it. Monlo readied for the next leap, eyed fixed on the hologram- specifically its back. And with a massive jump, they landed squarely on its shoulders. Not exactly what they were trying to do, but hey, at least Monlo didn't land in the water. With a grunt, the dark tabby leaped onto the next platform once more, enjoying the solid ground beneath their paws. Taking a deep breath, Monlo couldn't help but notice that they were now quite close to the machinery, the buzzing noise had grown louder. Pushing away the worry, Monlo surveyed the new platform- which was much larger and wider. However, there were multiple new problems. Holograms flanked Monlo from all sides, their yellow claws shining in the cool lighting of the room. All six of them looked as if they were ready to lunge. With the little time that Monlo had left, they managed to catch glimpse of a possible weapon; a sharp-looking rock. Smiling, the dark tabby leaped towards the weapon, grabbing it in their jaws- facing the six holograms, which were now all looking back at them. Eyes narrowing, Monlo leaped into battle, jabbing and stabbing and clawing- it was a mess. Thank the lord that these cats hadn't attacked them beforehand. Otherwise it would've gotten much more.. bloody. The bodies of all five holograms were beginning to fade; one more remained. Except this guy was the real deal. He had very long, very spiky horns on his face. But thats not all. The hologram had spikes all over its body! Well, except for its stomach. Monlo's muscles tensed. There wasn't much they could do. Unless they somehow manage to get it to flip over, Monlo wouldn't be able to get pass this section. And, it was this very moment when the Gamemakers became a little more interested. Better exceed those expectations, then. Without a second thought, Monlo hurled themself onto a spot close to the hologram. Their new plan was to simply just corner it, and then throw the thing into the water. That was the best they could do. The holograms screeched, its glitchy voice was like daggers to Monlo's ears. The thing lunged- thank goodness Monlo managed to dodge. But that simply just made it even angrier. It spun around, lunging once more. Again, Monlo dodged. Taking another quick glance at the scenery around, a new idea formed. The dark tabby scrambled towards the direction of the wall, turning back around to face the hologram, Monlo readied themselves for another dodge. Screeching once more, the thing lunged again. Except this time, instead of ramming into Monlo, it rammed face first into the wall, falling onto the floor. It wasn't knocked out, nor was it dead. Using this as an opportunity, Monlo ran to its side, ripping apart yellow fur. And just like that, it was gone. Was it me or were the Gamemakers clapping..? No time to stop! With a small breather, the dark tabby leaped over the wall, scrambling onto the platform beneath. On this last stage, it was a river. But not just any river. It was wild, its currents thrashing around- yowling. Many scraps of wood and metal and all sorts of things floating about. Monlo's heart sank. All of the items looked as if they would simply give in if they jumped onto them. Growling, Monlo adverted their gaze onto the water. Which seemed to be filled with metal scraps, wood, and all sorts of bad things. They didn't have any choice but to swim, as much as they didn't want to. With a deep breath, Monlo slid into the water. It was much, much worse. Many more scraps flew by their ears. Tiny drops of blood tainted the water. And yet, Monlo pushed on. As they were carried by the river, they noticed that the lower you get, the less dangerous it is. Although thats good information, Monlo was running out of air. And they didn't feel like drowning for the sake of not getting scratched. Determined, the dark tabby rose to the surface bits of wood and metal clinging onto their wet fur. Taking another deep breath, Monlo dived once more. This time quite low. This process repeated several times, until they managed to finally reach the last challenge. It was.. chaos. A whirlpool. Its waters were even faster then the river, circling and circling around.. Monlo took a deep breath, trying to keep themselves calm. a single piece of wood drifted nearby, which was quickly claimed by the whirlpool, and sent.. wherever it went. Monlo felt their muscles tensing, fear clouding their head. And yet, for whatever reason, they pushed on. With a massive leap, they were now in the water. Monlo, however, had a plan. They have studied whirlpools before. The trick was to simply just swim out. With a huge chunk of their strength, Monlo slowly freed themselves from the dangerous water. However, as they slowly made their way out of the whirlpool-side-of-the-water, a piercing pain shot through their leg. Looking down, they noticed a piece of wood scraping the side of Monlo's foot. Growling, the dark tabby kicked the scrap apart. But now, there were many more problems. As Monlo came closer to the finish, more scraps appeared. All dangerously close and all equally as sharp. Not only that, but the leg Monlo had scraped was beginning to sting badly. Growling, the dark tabby forced themselves to push on. Bad choice. The leg continued to sting even more, and Monlo rendered it useless in the current situation. Frustrated, Monlo swam to the border, pretending like nothing was wrong. And they looked rather convincing from the Gamemakers point of view. It took a little while until Monlo reached the end. As the dark tabby pulled themselves out of the water, scraps of metal, wood dropped down from their fur, droplets of blood fell onto the floor- and small scratches covered their paws. It stung, but not as badly as the larger wound. Forcing a triumphant expression, Monlo faced the Gamemakers, which all had rather impressed expressions. With a curt nod, the group casually dismissed them. As they dragged themselves out of the room, their chin was raised. They were proud of their victory. Hopefully this meant something. Otherwise their plan would go to waste.

**THE GAMES!!!!**

**first death YESSSSSSSSSSS**

A familiar tawny brown shape sulked across the grassy plain. Tiberius's fur loomed over his body as he looked around. Nothing had gone planned for him. He felt tired and horribly lost, and with no supplies, he was bound to lose quickly if he didn't pull himself together. // Do I have to though? // a voice whispered in his head. // What's the point of surviving? //. The tom padded around, looking at the sky above him ahead. Sitting next to a large, unsteady looking stone, Tiberius let out a yawn into the sky, which quickly was melting into a buttery, warm yellow. He blinked, narrowing his eyes at the golden light and stopped to stare forward. It was oddly quiet and peaceful- pin drop silence spread around. Should anyone attack him right now- well, it's not like he would lose, right? There it was again- the nagging inside of him. Even if Tiberius /somehow/ found a way to survive and win, who would be waiting for him? No allies would be there to congratulate him; his family... no. He would have to go back to his family- there's no way his father would let him stay in the Capitol by himself. Even if he did, somehow they'd find a way to come back to him. Perhaps he could sneak away with Malbec's family, who were already planning on moving to the Capitol in around 2 years anyways? It would be awkward to live with Syrah and Malbec as well. He gritted his teeth in frustration. Eventually, Syrah would find out his true intentions on why he stays near her- how would she react then? He knew she was a soft-hearted cat, but you never know, right? He didn't want to make her sad in any way, but Aelia told him to follow his heart, right? // But how? How can I follow my heart when it's already been broken into a million pieces? // the tom thought angrily. He tried to close his eyes, but a single, streaming tear squeezed out and he licked away quickly. Aelia told him that he shouldn't care what his father thinks, but she didn't know what he was like. Nobody knew what he was like, except for his sister and mother. Now, suddenly he remembered why he was so headstrong on entering this competition. For Gallia- his poor sister. What would she say if she saw him get eliminated? Would she know that was her brother, the one who was too pathetic to save her from their father's wrath? Or would she remember him as her brother, the one who tried his best to care for her every second of the day? // I'm done. // his mind echoed, and the heavily built tom got up, looking around with his hazel eyes. // There's no options left. What else can I do? // he paced around, frowning. // Gallia.. Syrah.. and Malbec. All these cats.. I.. I can't leave them.. but I can't go back... I need help.. I need someone.. I need- // the panicky tribute saw a glimpse of a shadow near one of the stones ahead and paused in his thoughts. What was that? Some prey maybe? Another tribute. He let out a threatening growl. While the sun bestowed its last flickers of light, mist encircled the saddened tom. Hiding the evils wondering about behind a thick layer of water.. a dark shadow moved along the shadows, watching Tiberius with two amber eyes. Narrowed, battle ready. Claws glowed in the dim atmosphere, turning slightly golden in the fading light. Monlo recognized this cat. They were Tiberius. That one career- the guy that they have trained with briefly that one time.. Fuzzy memories flashed before their eyes, emotion pouring into their gaze.. all of which was soon- like the clearing- hidden by mist. Getting thicker by the second. Malicious intent clouded their mind.. Claws slowly begun to unsheathe, and paws- which each stride, snuck up on the gray tom. This was it. Their first kill. No regrets. Monlo didn't think. They had no say in the matter. The opportunity was perfect.. heh.. maybe the Games really did get to their head. Positioned right behind Tiberius, Monlo drew a deep breath. The dark tabby took a good look at him. Maybe.. maybe Monlo should free this cat. His depressed gaze and weary eyes.. they held stories. Memories. A life. A life that soon, Monlo would take. Crush between their claws. As if he was a withering flower. Although its beauty did not wane- it was slowly failing within. Struggling to keep itself from falling apart then and there. Rusty iron chains dragged him to the ground, binding him with the life that he has been forced upon. No.. regrets. There was not a single thought left in Monlo's head. Only one goal.. Without thinking- quicker then a droplet of water, there was a swift SLASH! Claws cut through fur and flesh. Blood splashed across the grass like water. Monlo cringed. Not just at the uncomfortable.. feeling, but at the fact that the blow was not strong enough to kill the tom in one single strike. Faster. That's all Tiberius could think in the quick seconds that a dark tabby dawned upon him, like a shadow enveloping him in its cold brace. He felt a spray of blood across his chest and gasped, stumbling backwards onto the side of the stone. His weight pushed onto it, causing it to creak a little. If he didn't move fast, that rock would fall all the way down, and take with it for the joy ride. His quick breathing turned into a snarl as he looked down at his now scarlet chest, wincing around him. Monlo was a happy, confident cat- now they were reeking of cold focus and killer intent. A machine for the games and the enjoyment of the Capitol. // Capitol... I showed you every inch of my support... you repay me.. by putting me here in this situation.. I cannot ESCAPE.. because of YOU. // the tom yelled in his head, half-hoping that the Gamemakers would perhaps hear his anger, or that President Coin would maybe shake in his oh so delicate paws. He began to pant faster- the anger in his head had taken precious moments of adrenaline he needed to stay.. alive? Was he dying? // I am not dying. // he told himself. The tom shifted up the rock with a growl, but the stone rolled backwards and he stumbled a little. His ears flattened slightly- how close was he to the edge? Unknowingly to him, a good push would send him off the hill with the stone. His eyes darted back upwards to the dark tabby above him. What was Monlo going to do? "Monlo..." he started, coughing a bit as his body jerked. "I..." he stopped. How pathetic did he look right now? He couldn't even move- his life was in the hands of another tribute at this moment. // If I leave this world... will I be free, at least? // his mind whispered. Silence was all he needed in this moment- could he finally achieve it? So many things gone undone- it's not like you remember them when you're dead, right? "Monlo...please..." Was he begging for his life? Or for his freedom? Silence roared in Monlo's ears. This was it. Taking a deep breath, they answered. Expression fading into nothing."What?" Monlo's voice was quiet. As if they were trying to keep their murder a secret. But, they knew- that nothing lay buried for long. Tiberius's death was broadcasted back to the Districts and Capitol right at this very moment.. the tributes were to figure it all out tonight. Tiberius looked down at his wound. It wasn't really deep, but not quite out of the 'life threatening' zone. He could handle it. Everyone wanted the Titan to come back home. They were all watching him back there- he winced, thinking of his little sister, then his love. "Let...me.. go." he gasped, eyes staring ahead. Anyone watching might've assumed he was begging for his life, if they were able to hear, but Tiberius knew what he was asking for. There was no going back. He was tired. So tired. Monlo stared into the two hazel eyes, both flashed with emotions and life.. the sight was unbearable. And yet, they couldn't look away now. They knew what he wanted. And it was their duty to fulfill his last wish.. no matter the cost. Raising their right paw, Monlo stared at the broken body. Taking one last look at Tiberius. Regret poured into their body, powering them onward. They wanted to apologize.. and yet, what was their to apologize for? The fact that he was reaped? The fact that he had died so quickly? No matter how hard they tried, no words came out. Grief began to tear through Monlo's heart. The tipping point. And, just like that, the blow landed. The final strike. Something flashed before his eyes and Tiberius' mouth opened. He stared straight back at Monlo, noticing an emotion on their face.. grief? A chuckle escaped his lips- the games hadn't made this tribute a real machine. He felt excruciating pain as he body slipped down onto the rock, letting it slide back completely. The stone shifted over and started its rolling parade down the hill, without Tiberius. Instead, the still tom lay where the stone once was, his chest unmoving. His mouth twitched, as if he wanted to say something, maybe a thank you? Thoughts raced through his head- maybe he was wrong- maybe there was more punishment for him, after this horrible life. Would he suffer more? Would he never get to be the cat he wanted to be, even when he is no longer among the living? // I'm not afraid of anything. // he told himself quietly, feeling death envelope him like a comforting blanket. // Not even death. I'm sorry, Gallia. Malbec, and Syrah. Aelia. And... Monlo. No. Malbec. I love you. I love you so much. // he felt himself tear up a little. // Back to Monlo. I'm sorry- // the tom paused. Could he, say something to Monlo right now? With the little energy he had left, maybe he could? He opened his mouth. And then, it moved no more. Two cold, hazel eyes stared back up at the golden sky with tears aching to leave, but no life or emotion left to push them out. The once proud, tough tom sank into the grass, now broken and empty. The stone stopped rolling.

### Quotes

*"Keep rolling your eyes. Maybe you'll find a brain"* -Monlo to Aelia