ROBIN. [ S1 complete and S2 in the making! ]

Mini-Stage 9

[The stage is set with a grand ballroom, opulently decorated with chandeliers casting a warm, golden glow. A raised dais with an ornate throne dominates the center. The audience, representing the gathered nobles, is seated in darkness, with only the performer illuminated in the spotlight.]

[As the music fades, the dancer (you) comes to a gentle stop, her movements slow and deliberate as she completes her performance.]

(The last note of the melody dies away, leaving a profound silence.)

[You stand still, breathless, poised, waiting.]

(A hush falls over the room, the nobles slowly coming out of their trance-like state, their gazes fixed on you.)

[With measured grace, you curtsy deeply, your eyes lifting to meet those of the Emperor.]

[The audience (nobles) gasps softly, a ripple of admiration flows through them. A hesitant wave of applause begins, slowly building, but the spotlight remains fixed on you and the Emperor.]

[You notice, out of the corner of your eye, the discontent etched on your siblings' faces.]

[Prince Volkov sits, a deep scowl marring his features as he clutches his expensive garments. Princess Seraphina stiffens, her fists clenching at her sides.]

(The applause swells, but the Emperor raises his hand for silence. The room quiets instantly, an expectant hush descending.)

Empress [from her seat, her voice warm, echoing]: "Beautiful. A truly magnificent performance."

[The audience is silent, waiting for your response.]

[You curtsy again, eyes downcast, but a soft smile plays on your lips.]

You [humbly]: "Thank you, Imperial Mother."

Emperor [his voice stern, commanding attention]: "Sit."

[A murmur runs through the room, surprise evident among the audience.]

You [raising your head, voice steady]: "Forgive me, Imperial Father?"

Emperor [with measured authority]: "Take the throne at my right. A temporary reward for your contribution to the evening's festivities. After the banquet, you may express a single wish. Choose wisely."

[You bow deeply, your voice filled with gratitude.]

You: "Such an honor is beyond anything I could have imagined. I shall take this time to consider my request thoughtfully."

Emperor: "Very well. Now, rise and join me."

[You ascend the dais, the warm light bathing you as you take your place beside the Emperor. Your siblings simmer with jealousy, their expressions tight with barely concealed rage.]

[The banquet continues, but the whispers of the audience have changed. All eyes are on you, no longer just a child, but a force to be reckoned with.]

[You bring a glass of champagne to your lips, smirking slightly as you savor the shift in power. The spotlight dims, and the stage fades to black.]

End of Mini-Stage 9

410 Words.