#c:kimber

It all started as a silly idea and a conversation to lighten the mood at dinner but the more Kimber thought about it, the more she wanted it to become reality. To start, it would definitely make a statement and, if she was ever to catch the attention of the public, this would be the time to do so. But most of all, it would be a way for her to curse at the government without them even knowing…

-✧-

“All I ask is that I am not a lumberjack... Preferably a tree- a living tree.” A rare stubbornness rolled from the brunette’s lips as her arms gently hugged against her chest. Pushing all of her etiquette training as far as she could throw it, her bright eyes narrowed as she once more repeated, “I do not want to be a lumberjack...”

Kimber’s stylist, Syntasia, rolled her eyes as the young female’s requests to be caught on fire persisted minute after minute, hour after hour.  “Miss, I am sorry but that is our aesthetic... Lumber is about the people and the trees after they are cut down; not the living ones...” With her thick Capital accent dripping from every word, the skinny, green hued female wrapped random swatches of fabric over Kimber’s small frame. "Plaid is in this season anyway so be thankful you will be quite the piece of fashion."

As Syntasia continued to lay fabric upon fabric over her body, the District Seven female refused to move her crossed arms until her demands were met. Then it clicked.

“But, Syntasia,” Kimber’s voice continued, her voice now as smooth as butter. “We, I mean, you could make a statement - a statement paying homage to the nation’s glory.” With these words, all movement in front of the young woman stopped; her stylist completely hanging on every word. “Here, how about this: At first I can be a bare tree symbolizing the world before the current government, and then-“

“AND THEN YOU CAN FLOURISH INTO THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TREE OF ALL!” Syntasia cried out in her shrill voice, cutting of the tribute’s words short. Flailing with joy then wrapping her vibrant arms around Kimber’s neck, Syntasia gently squeezed then flailed her arms away in excitement. “I am, I mean, we are geniuses! I will make it happen! I know where to find the person who knows the ingredients to make it as though you bloom! Just as our wonderful country has over the years! Oh my, so much work to be done. I will see you shortly, my dear!” And then she was gone.

But the deed was done; she wasn't going to be a lumberjack. Actually, beyond that, was going to be something much more powerful: a secret, personal symbol… Slowly shaking off the numerous pieces of fabric as she prepared to celebrate, a familiar voice caused her to freeze within the moment.

“You can never let them know the real meaning behind your outfit,” a deep voice cooed from behind a column, the district’s male mentor stepping into sight. “I’m not stupid enough to believe what you told her. For the glory of the Capital, please. With your resume, I know exactly what you mean. It could be about your own personal growth but who would waste this important appearance on that... It isn’t the past, but a future you and not to mention many others hope for. Not that I’m angry, you’ve really got guts but,” he paused as he stepped closer, his tired eyes narrowing just as her had done moments earlier. “This must be a secret. Maybe the future will be ready for this but not yet… Do you understand?”

With wide eyes and a shiver that ran from her head to her toes, Kimber once more found the soft voice she had spoken with her entire life. “Y-yes… Of course.”

“Good… But it will be nice seeing tributes in something other than lumberjack plaid….” And with that, just as Syntasia before him, he was gone.