"What on earth are you doing, Anna?" a fellow dancer murmured, concern brushing her voice upon noticing their star performer gradually dancing off course and threatening the rhythm of their synchronized routine. The girls had danced together countless times, honing their skills to keep the performance going even if one of them was lost.
But Anna didn't hear the whispers. With an unwavering determination, she pressed on with the choreography, a whirlwind of energy as she danced boldly across the stage, her eyes still locked onto her target, the king himself.
As she glided closer and closer to the grand throne, two guards swiftly positioned themselves in her path, blocking her from going any further. But Anna was unfazed, she continued ahead, her gaze unwaveringly fixed on the King, who was now watching her every move. With a simple gesture, he signaled for the guards to step aside, granting her passage.
When Anna reached the foot of the throne, she extended her hand toward the king, inviting him to join her in dance. To the delight and astonishment of the audience, the King rose without hesitation.
A ripple of excitement coursed through the crowd as their king, known for his stern demeanor, stepped down from his throne for the first time to dance, indeed it was quite a sight to behold.
As their hands connected, a smile crept upon the king's face. He was lost in the unfamiliarity of the dance, but Anna was there to guide him, her movements fluid and confident all thanks to the system.
The other dancers quickly encircled the king, creating a sphere of twirls and spins while carefully maintaining their formation. Anna, in her graceful display was also very mindful not to project any hint of seduction toward the king, she knew that it could end badly for her if he as much as suspect such a thing.
Time seemed to stretch infinitely until, the drums stopped, and the dancers came to a halt. They bowed collectively before the king, then turned to acknowledge the audience, whose cheers filled the hall with delight.
But just before they retreated from the stage, the king unexpectedly seized Anna by the arm, catching her off guard and locking her gaze with his intense eyes.
"You are bold," he remarked, with a glint of something unreadable in his expression.
"I could have had you executed for such a display."
Anna's heart raced at his words. She remembered the rumours about his ruthless rule and how he wouldn't tolerate the whims of women. What she had intended as a bold gesture of connection could have ended in calamity, yet here she stood confident, hoping for the best.
"I apologize, my lord," she stuttered, instinctively trying to get on her knees, but the king halted her before she could descend.
"I'm not angry," he replied, an unexpected softness breaking through his authoritative voice,
"After the festivities conclude, look for me. Ask for anything you desire, except for my kingdom, and I will grant it to you."
And with those words, Anna felt a thrilling mix of anxiety and anticipation swirl within her. To her, this was already a mission accomplished, what could be better?
"My King..." Anna tried to thank him, but trailed off as the young king returned to his throne, leaving her standing alone before the crowd. And suddenly, a wave of realization washed over her; all her friends had vanished, and she was next to go.
"I'm so sorry," she called out as she hurried toward her teammates in the other hall.
"I know we didn't plan for this. It was selfish of me to..."
"Exactly!" the lead dancer interrupted, her brows furrowed in frustration.
"This could have ended in disaster! The king could have been furious, banishing our team for good. Thank the gods it didn't come to that."
"I really am sorry," Anna replied, genuine regret filling her voice even though it was just acting. Deep down, she felt it wasn't entirely her fault, the system gave her a task and she had no choice but to finish it.
"Looks like all that shyness was just an act..." Priscila chimed in, her tone laced with sarcasm.
"Priscila!" another dancer interjected, stepping in to defend Anna.
"She already said she's sorry, so give it a rest! If anything, the king might reward us for her bravery. We could be the first team to get him off his throne to dance!"
"Forget her, Anna," a kind-hearted lady smiled at her, trying to lift her spirits.
"Yeah, maybe it wasn't the wisest move, but you were brilliant out there! You've put our team on the map for the first time."
"Thanks," Anna said, forcing a smile. But then her expression faltered.
"I might not be able to dance with you all anymore..."
"Huh?" The lady's eyes widened in disbelief, and others gathered around, they were curious about the news
"Why not?"
"I'm moving into the castle to serve," Anna explained. This was the best she could come up with to say goodbye now.
"I'll still try to see you during events, but the king has chosen this path for me, and I have no choice."
A hush fell over the group, the disappointment evident in some of their faces.
"Oh," the lady finally spoke, her tone softening.
"I wish you all the best within those walls. I've heard terrible stories about what happens inside, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone."
"It's okay," Anna reassured her with a smile. "Maybe this will turn out alright. I might have overstepped, but let's just see where this leads."
Before she could say more, the young lady wrapped her arms around Anna in a warm hug. "Even if it's just once, I'll always remember you."
"Thank you," Anna whispered, she was touched by the gesture, but somehow mentally remembered that it's all fake.
As time passed and guests began to leave, the festive atmosphere became dimmed. The King's guards roamed the hall, distributing rewards to each group.
As already expected, Anna's team got the largest prize, a hefty bag containing 200 pieces of gold.
The guard then announced that Anna was not to partake in their rewards, stating that the king wished to see her personally, and she immediately understood why.