Winx: The reincarnation 2

Chapter thirty

On the day of the talent show, the girls arrived early to get Crystal registered as one of the participants. As they approached the venue, they saw a long line of people already waiting to sign up for the competition.

The group joined the end of the line, their excitement growing as they watched the contestants ahead of them. Some were practising their routines, while others chatted nervously with friends.

"This place is packed," Artemisia said, scanning the crowd. "I didn't realise so many people would be entering."

"I guess the prize must be more tempting than we thought," Danielle mused. "Or maybe they just like the spotlight."

As the line gradually shortened and the number of people ahead of them dwindled,

"Almost our turn," Carissa said, her voice full of anticipation.

When they finally reached the registration desk, the clerk looked up with a warm smile.

"Name, please?"

"Crystal", she answered confidently, while the clerk typed something into the system.

"Seems like it's going to be a packed house," Luna remarked, trying to strike up a conversation with the clerk.

"It certainly is. Not every day you get to perform live on television," the clerk replied with a smile.

"Television?" The fairies gasped in surprise.

"Yep, it's a televised event," the clerk said, handing Crystal a numbered badge. "Please head backstage to the waiting area, and when your attention is needed, the backstage manager will brief you accordingly."

"Thanks!" Crystal said, and the group moved away from the registration desk.

"Number 95", Lithia commented, looking at Crystal's badge. "There are a lot of participants."

"I thought this was just a local talent show, not something on television," Crystal sighed, feeling a bit more nervous.

"Hey, no pressure," Carissa reassured her. "Remember, it's all for fun. Plus, I have a feeling you might end up really famous after this."

Crystal smiled at her friend's encouragement. "Well, I guess so."

The backstage area was buzzing with activity as participants prepared for their performances. Performers were scattered around, each in their own world—some rehearsing lines, others adjusting costumes, and a few pacing with anxious expressions.

"What's your plan to warm up?" Lithia asked, nudging Crystal playfully.

"I was thinking of running through the song Symphony and I have been working on," Crystal replied, clutching her sheet music a little tighter.

"A song? That's amazing!" Artemisia beamed.

Crystal nodded, her voice soft. "Yeah, I was planning to play it on the violin," she admitted. "But now I'm having second thoughts. I mean, who wants to hear a random stranger play the violin?"

"I think it's a lovely idea," Carissa said warmly. "You're more talented than you give yourself credit for."

"Absolutely," Luna added with an encouraging smile. "The audience is going to be blown away by your amazing talent."

"Thanks, guys," Crystal said, exhaling a nervous sigh.

"It's just pre-performance jitters," Danielle assured her. "You're going to do great out there."

At that moment, the talent show's signature jingle resonated through the room, marking the official start of the event.

"Looks like it's kicking off," Lithia said as the large screen in the waiting area illuminated, revealing the brightly lit stage.

"Good evening, everyone, and welcome to the most spectacular talent show in all of Magix!" the host declared with infectious enthusiasm as the show began.

The fairies turned their attention to the screen, captivated as the host continued his animated introduction.

"This year's show is set to be extraordinary! Performers from across Magix have gathered to dazzle you with their amazing talents—prepare to be blown away!"

The audience on-screen erupted into applause as the first contestant stepped onto the stage—a young specialist showcasing an impressive routine of acrobatics with his staff.

"Wow, that looks difficult," Artemisia said, leaning closer to get a better view.

"Definitely takes skill," Luna added, nodding in appreciation.

"Very impressive," Danielle agreed, her gaze fixed on the screen as the specialist executed a flawless flip, landing gracefully.

As his routine concluded, the crowd burst into cheers. The host returned to the stage, beaming.

"Now that's what I call starting strong!" he said, gesturing toward the judges. "Let's hear what our panel of experts has to say about that incredible performance!"

The camera shifted to the judges' table, revealing a panel of three people. The first judge was a stern-looking woman with short, silver hair styled in a sleek bob. She wore a sharp navy suit adorned with subtle star motifs. Her nameplate read "Celestina", and her expression was cool.

The second was a laid-back man named "Arlo", wearing a bright green tunic with intricate vine patterns. His unruly auburn curls and easy grin gave him a relaxed demeanour.

The final judge was a flamboyant man named "Roderick", who wore a dramatic red coat embroidered with golden flames. His jet-black hair was styled into an impressive pompadour, and he held a jewelled cane that glinted under the stage lights.

Celestina was the first to speak. "While the routine demonstrated technical skill, I felt it lacked originality. Acrobatics are a staple in these competitions. If you want to stand out, you'll need to show us something fresh next time." Her voice was measured.

Arlo leaned back in his chair, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "I agree with Celestina. It was... fine. Good execution, no doubt, but there wasn't anything that made me sit up and say, 'Wow, that's different.'"

Roderick, however, leaned forward dramatically. "Oh, come now, give the kid a break! He was trying to dazzle us with the classics. But," he added, "I do agree that it didn't quite light the stage on fire. More sparks next time, darling."

The host, sensing the mixed reviews, quickly stepped in to smooth things over. "Well, there you have it, folks! Some constructive feedback from our esteemed judges. Let's give it up one more time for our brave performer!"

The crowd applauded politely as the young specialist exited the stage, disappointed.

Back in the waiting room, Lithia tilted her head. "That was a bit critical."

Luna nodded. "The judges don't seem easy to impress this year."

"Which means the competition is going to be fierce," Artemisia said, glancing at Crystal.

Crystal exhaled slowly, clutching her sheet music. "No pressure..."

"Don't worry," Carissa reassured her. "You've got something they won't see coming."

"Exactly," Luna agreed. "Just focus on having fun up there."

The group turned back to the screen as the next act prepared to take the stage.

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