Chapter 3: Dance Dance Revolution

• tbd

Sir Rupert stepped onto the stage with a look of annoyance on his face. He clutched a large leather satchel in one hand and a scroll in the other. “I am Sir Rupert, steward of Lord Alistair MacGregor,” he announced. The crowd of performers and spectators fell silent, all eyes fixed on him. “The competition has been won,” he continued, his voice carrying a hint of bitterness. “And as such, it is my displeasure to award the prize of 1000 silver pieces to each of the winning performers.” He shot a disdainful glance at Maebh, Elesandra, and Firia, who stood together, trying to look nonchalant.

Annabel was livid. She fumed as she watched the prize being handed over, 200 silver pieces to each person. “This is an insult!” she hissed, but her voice was quickly drowned out by the noise of the crowd. Sir Rupert continued to hand out the coins, one by one, counting them carefully. Marcus and Scarlett took the coins, him with a beaming handsome grin and the her with a vapid innocence.

“Remember,” Sir Rupert warned, “the rest of the prize will only be awarded after the final performance. If there are any issues, I will not hesitate to withhold the remaining amount. Lord Alistair MacGregor was pleased with your performance, but I am not,” he finished, fixing them with a stern gaze. You nodded, acknowledging the terms, and slowly made your way out of the hall, your minds already racing with thoughts of how they could improve their performance for the final show.

• 15xp
• 200 silver each for winning the competition. The other 800 later, after the actual performance.