Young Writers Society

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Rebels



(SB originally by @EllaBliss)

Ariel Morelle

I looked around at everyone as I rode in my float. My float was simple because my family had no money to pay for it. Most of this float was built from the money we got from the castle, which the first check was just to pay for traveling. I waved to my town, the town I had little contact with, and my cheeks burned. Some girls were smiling and waving.

Some looked like they wanted to kill me.

I focused on my family, which I could see now that I was near the end of the parade. The parade for me.

Yes, I was chosen for the Selection. But I don't think I will go far, for I was not raised to be in the immoral competition. It took poise and delicate hands. It took tall girls with curves to win. I was petitie, probably the smallest one to come.

My parents looked at me with tears in their eyes, and my five siblings did the same. Shania and Lynn were the other two girls in the Morelle household, while Jacob, Jason, and Justin were the triplet guys in our house. our ages ranging from the boys being 8 and Shania being 10 and then Lynn being 13. Of course I'm the oldest being 16, which made me like a second mother.

I hugged my mother, who has always been hard on me, but she was all tears and no complaints. She kissed me on the head as my dad stole me for a hug. My dad had always been there for me, and I felt like I was closest to him. The tears in my eyes threatened to fall over and stream down my cheeks, but I held them back.

I kissed each of the triplets on the head, and hugged Shania and Lynn. "Keep them safe." I kissed their cheeks where their tears were running down their cheeks. "I love you."

I looked at them one last time and then I got in the black car that was waiting for me.

---

When I got to the airport I realized I was last to arrive, and I suddenly felt a flash of heat to my cheeks. The other girls were gorgeous, and my heart dropped to my stomach as I realized I stood no chance in this competition.

I was quite the whole time, not even catching their names. I heard part of their whispers though, but my mind didn't process them. I soon fell asleep and awoke when we got to the palace.

"Hello ladies, I'm Officer Dullaghan, there are citizens outside, and they're waiting to catch a glimpse at you. You must be quick, for you guys are slightly behind schedule." He nodded.

"Lady Emilia, you will exit first." He put his hand on the small of her back and helped her down the steps. I heard cheering and the snapping of cameras, a sound I was not used to.

"Next is Lady Teslynn." The girl named Teslynn stood up, she looked pretty and a very unusual way, and walked out, more cheers erupted.

"And Lady Ariel, you'll be last to go, which is now." He waved me over, and I took a deep breath. I wiped my hands on my black dress they supplied all the Selected girls, each one unique in one way or another. I straightened my back and put on a smile, and walked out.

The camera flashes were blinding, and the cheers deafening. I felt a little at ease when I saw many signs for me and many people cheering for me. I talked to some people, just saying hi then moving on, then I would maybe sign something for someone else. So this is what it feels like to be a Three.

Officer Dullaghan urged us onto the black car that was long and sleek. We got in the back, the windows so tinted we could barely see through the windows. I started to get nervous, as the other girls chatted excitedly.

When we got to the palace it was a frenzy of people going this way or that, and I stepped out of the long car. As soon as I stepped out a lady who seemed to be around her late twenties started pushing me towards the magnificent building. "You guys are late!" She sounded stressed. I immediately felt horrible and tried to apologise, but I'm not sure she heard me.

We then entered a huge room, full of makeshift dressing rooms and thousands of colorful dressed. There were people getting their hair dyed, including some of the red-haired girls like me. I really hoped they wouldn't do that to my hair.

They sat me right down and stylists started to mess with my hair and face. They started to put makeup on me, which felt weird, as they put this slimy stuff in my hair. They only put it in certain places, and I wondered if they were dying my hair.

They washed my hair and then pulled it up into an elegant bun, with braids and some things I couldn't describe, and I realized that they put some darker strips in my hair, which they referred to as lowlights. My makeup was a glittering charcoal, and my lips were a dark maroon. They made me see bones in my face that I've never known were there, and my skin looked perfect. I was elegant, until you got to my wardrobe. They then waxed my body, plucked my eyebrows, and washed the bottom half of me. It was weird to have people wash me, but I let them.

They put me in a gorgeous white dress, which seemed like a good choice since no one else was wearing white. It was strapless with black fabric going from my waist to were the sweetheart neckline dipped down. From my waist down it was flowy, and the most beautiful fabric I had ever seen. I looked like a princess, which felt completely native to me.

I was ready to face whatever was next.

Why is it called a float? Diana thought, as she rode through town on the aforementioned. It wasn't as if it was actually floating, and on most days she just call it a cart. All the locals were gathered to see her off, the entire village stood at the end of the row of houses. There were about fifty of them in total, and a tenth of them were here immediate family. It was a bit silly, she thought, that she had to go through with this whole display thing, when she'd have sat on the back of the cart to get to the end of the lane anyway.Finally the journey (floatation?) was over, and she could climb off and get into the provided car. Her dad was waiting for her, as were her brothers, but no-one said anything. There was nothing left that hadn't already been said. The driver piled her luggage into the boot, and then the rest of her luggage into the seat behind her. Her lute wouldn't fit into the boot, but Diana was glad. It would give her something to do for the journey.The journey was a long one, and for Diana very difficult. She kept one trying not to think about the situation she was in, what would happen, what the other girls were like, how long it would be until she would see her family again...No. She mustn't think about that. Instead she unzipped her lute from it's case, and started to play. They were simple tunes, a few hornpipes, a couple of jigs, but she played them with such complexity and beauty that anyone would imagine they were classical compositions.And then the car pulled into the airport. She was the first one there. Now there was nothing to do but wait.
Then the other girls arrived. And Diana nearly died. Diana was pretty. She new she was, and was proud od the fact. But these girls were beautiful. Diana looked at one girl in particular, and her heart sunk. Her brown hair flowed down her back like a cascade of rich chocolate, and she was so thin. Did she even eat?
Then Diana looked at another girl, and she was no better. And she was holding a violin case! This was not good news, this was big competition. Diana miserably stood up, and slunk into the aeroplane.
The aeroplane journey itself wasn't much better. Diana did her best to think of other things, but her whole situation kept on slinking back into her mind. These girls were her competition. She was their competition. It was them or her.
The plane touched down amid a crowd of people. They were jostling to see them, and a group of policemen had their job cut out just to hold them back. Diana could see people holding up banners, but she didn't see her name. Diana looked at the other girls. The violin girl was taking it all in her stride, as if she did it every day. For all Diana knew, she probably did. Diana kept her head bowed and did her best 'I'm not here' face.
They were ushered into a sleek black car, which drove them to the palace. Diana didn't notice any of the journey. She was to busy not thinking of anything.
The car pulled up inside the palace grounds, and they all got out. They were then shown to a room to be made up and dressed. Diana almost cryed. She had never worn make-up before, or had particularly fancy clothes. Now is was all too much, she hadn't the faintest idea what to do, and it seemed everyone else fitted right in. Then an woman showed her to a seat, and the process began. She was washed, her hair was washed, her nails were trimmed, as well as her eyelashes, she was given eye liner, eye shadow, and goodness knows what else. By the end of it all she could hardly tell the difference, except the fact that her hair was far less stragledy than normal. But at least she liked the dress. It was tiny little dots of brown, green, gold, silver, copper, all in tiny little leaf shapes, in a cascade that ran right down her back. It was tight fitting, but was longer at the back than at the front, and matched her hair.
She was actually in the selection.

Sitting comfortably on the golden throne, I waved courteously to the right and then to the left, taking in all the cheering and clapping from townspeople. The feeling of being the one to ride the golden-red float was glorious - it reminded me of when mother acted out a part in which she was the queen. Carefully arranged with red and gold spray painted roses, the float looked devinely royal, especially with the molded chair that looked almost like a real throne.

Feeling slightly cheeky, I started blowing kisses to ones, but soon was too giddy to do so. As a model, I had to keep in character - but this was all too much. It was real! This was not some arranged photo shoot.

I was going to meet Prince Jaison.

The name sounded so formal, so... Prince-like. Would he be that sickly sweet type like they were told to be? This suddenly dawned on me and I felt slightly queasy. Surely, he'd be the man I had imagined him to be. Kind, but not the "I'll do everything for you" type. Handsome, but not the "I love myself" type. Humoured, but not sarcastic. Smart. Musical.

I inwardly smiled. If he shared my love of music, I would be more than happy. Even if he didn't play, but liked listening to me play... that would be a dream come true. But if he did not even like music... I swallowed. Don't think like that! I had to be positive.

My adoring crowd's rejoicing carried on right until the end. But my worries didn't go.



Mother and Father's arms wrapped around me into a big hug. Their warmth made my nervousness fold in on itself and disappear until they pulled away. Left shaking beneath my long sky blue dress, I smiled at them both, kissing Father's cheek.

"I'll make you proud," I promised them both, my voice wavering and tears swelling in the rim of my eyes. Don't cry.

"No messing up your make-up, missus," said Mother, putting her hand on my shoulder. "The Prince doesn't want a weepy girl."

Laughing a little, I stood there for a moment, before opening up my arms and hugging them both again. I didn't want to leave, I really didn't. But they wanted me to. And I wanted what they wanted. Right?

"Now, lets not be late," Father told me, a watery look hidden beneath his circular rimmed glasses. His hand slid down from my hair and he put his fingers beneath my chin. Then he whispered, "We'll be happy no matter what, darling. Just do your best."

Nodding, I turned, hiding my tears and walked along side my escort. We reached the car, and soon enough, I was slipping into the back seat of the black limousine. The drive was fairly long, but that could have been my perception of time, for it was painstakingly boring.

All I could think about was the Prince. And music of course.



Climbing aboard the lush, white plane, I smiled to myself as I saw the roomy passengers bay and cream leather seats. Three other girls sat down on the plush seats, one brown haired, one with ginger hair and the other reddy-brown hair. So these girls are my competition. I hated that word, I liked to think everyone was my equal, but they were in fact my competition.

Clutching my violin case (which I had insisted must travel with me), I trailed to the back of the plane, trying to space myself out from the others. I hated this. Being the type to make friends instantly, I found it hard to resist picking a girl to sit next to and have a chat with. But Mother had told me that getting emotional attachments would only bring me great sorrow. I had to stay focused.

On the way there, I occasionally peaked at the others, trying to take in what they looked like, what they were doing, how they acted. But Mother told me kept cropping up and I laid back in my seat, running my fingers across the case of my violin. I couldn't wait to play it. Would I be able to play it Prince Jaison?

The flight suddenly got a little rough and I bounced a little. We must be landing. Pressing my case to my chest, I felt the wheels making contact with the ground, jigging me up and down. Trying to keep my posture, I dragged one hand through my mess of curls, ready to face the crowds. The three girls around me all looked like they were preparing themselves.

Soon, it was my turn to shine. I tried to be as smooth and agile as possible - if these pictures were in the newspapers, then Prince Jaison would see me. As I came down the steps, my hands held up my sleek blue dress and I looked down at the floor, trying on a shy but sweet technique. Looking up through my eyelashes, I saw the crowd going wild. But some weren't looking at me. They looked on at the other three, cheering their names, holding up banners.

"Oh my God! It's Clandestine!" I heard some voices scream over the noise. A barricade was put up to keep back the crowds, but still I felt slightly claustrophobic. I had had enough of all the attention. Sure, I liked it, but there was limit to what I could take.

Still, I waved and did my thing, but inside I was feeling like I wanted to pass out. The escort soon asked us to come along and we were crammed into the car, driving off to the palace. The girls just sat in silence, breathing in the tension. My lips shook and I rolled the words over on my tongue. I never managed to say anything.

The car glided to a halt and soon the door opened. The escort was standing there as I clambered out after the others, and a woman hurried towards us.

"Come! Come!" she said, waving her arms about. "We need to hurry."

We followed her, and she took us into the palace, avoiding all the important rooms. We entered a room full of chairs and mirrors, and a group of what were obviously make-up artists and stylists. Knowing what to do, I walked straight in past the others and sat down on a random chair. This was not unusual for me.

A woman began working on my make-up, choosing the colours carefully. My lipstick was a poppy-red, my eye shadow a deep back, my eyebrows drawn sharp and my mascara making my eyelashes curled. I didn't need waxing for I had been on a shoot not long ago. I was the first to be ready, wearing a pink-fitted, triangle-cut bodice that had spaghetti straps that crisscrossed a sexy open back, while a maxi-length skirt that flows from the banded waistline looked absolutely perfect.

I was ready.

I was tired as I mounted the float that was mine for the parade that was also mine. I probably would not have been awake if mother had not given me caffeine pills this morning. We stayed up all night talking. I was ready for the selection but not so ready to leave my mother and younger twin sisters behind. The twins were only five, and they cried when I told them I was leaving for a while. Of course, Mother settled it.

I looked in the glass in front of me at my reflection. I'll admit, I thought I was gorgeous. Especially in the pink dress that was upon my shoulders. I looked and felt like I was already a princess. I sat down and closed my eyes, hungry for silence.

"Lexilynn!" I heard a voice call from the ground.

"What is it mother?" I asked.

"We won't see you after the parade. Please be safe and have fun!" I was always being told I looked like my mother, but I saw it most when she was smiling.

I waved as the float began to move.


I fell asleep on the way to the airport, and again in the airplane. I managed to stay awake to sign quite a few autographs for some younger kids and talk to a few. There was one girl who stood out to me the most, her arm was in a sling and she was missing two teeth. When I asked her what happened she wouldn't tell me. I slipped off one of my bracelets and handed it to her. Her smile had been the highlight of my day.

When we had gotten to the palace we were rushed inside. I had to correct the driver and tell him that I did not go by Teslynn. We were ushered into a room set up like a giant photo shoot hair and makeup station. This was all to familiar for me.

I sat down and all of a sudden there was a flutter of people surrounding me. Within minutes I looked, well, perfect. I was in a beautiful blue dress. I was also ready for whatever this competition threw my way.

Basil Barie, Three, of Angeles

I love parades! I've seen plenty of them go through my town, glittering floats topped with pretty girls, waving and throwing out candy in honor of some special occasion. The girls on top of the floats seemed so glamorous, so mature; and now I'm going to be one of them!

It's glorious, and I feel so famous as my Father helps me down, people waving and shouting my name. I'm a mini-celebrity! People will be running my name through the rumor mill for the next few weeks. I'll be bigger than the scandal of Mr. Jackson cheating on Mrs.Jackson with young Ali V.!

It's going to my head all rather quickly, I'm afraid.

My Dad lets go of my hand, and my best friend Via runs at me.

"You looked beautiful!" V grabs my face, pushing it between her hands. I taste lip gloss on my teeth. "I'm so excited for you! You're going to have so much fun."

I remove Via's hands from my face and embrace her in a tight hug. "I love you too."

All my other friends have already said goodbye, but V was special, and we clung to each other. Who knew the next time we were going to see each other? This was going to be our first separation since we met at eight.

"Good luck out there, kay? I'll be cheering for you."

Our hug is interrupted by a tugging at my shirt.

"Rue?" I say, looking down at my sister.

"Why are you doing this stupid competition, anyway? It's stupid! Sexist! It takes you away from the things that really matter!"

Oh-oh. Rue is only twelve, but speaks her mind beyond its capabilities. "Like you?" I sighed, leaning down to speak to her face-to-face. I feel the warmth of the jeans against my leg; I will not have them much longer. "This is my adventure, my chance to make something memorable of my life. This is my chance to literally become anything!"

Rue blinks tears through her hazel eyes. "I guess that makes sense! I just..."

I hug her before she has to say anything else, and she hugs me back. My heart hurts with the thought. I want this chance, I do; but this is goodbye, for who knows how long. The hug is long and thoughtful, interrupted by the impatient wail of baby Hawthorn.

I get off the ground, dusting off my fancy jeans before my mother can send me a disapproving look.

Little Rowan, only six, takes my other hand, pulling me along. "C'mon! We need to get to the airport!" His too-long black curls bounce around his face as he tugs. "You don't want to be late."

Rowan is excited where Rue is upset. "Go, along, captain!"

My mother begins singing, holding Hawthorn tight in her arms. "Our Basil is going off, we're off to see our Basil go! She's boarding a train, we'll wave good-bye! We're off to see our Basil go!" Via, no stranger to my Mother's oddities, sings along, as does Rowan. Rue just frowns, grabbing my Father's hand and letting it swing between them.

I'm going to miss them.

A lot.

I have to keep telling myself that until it becomes true.

_________________

The plane ride is boring. I sit next to a particularly uninteresting girl named Lottie. This is all I get out of her. She's pretty, but guess everyone here is pretty. It's, like, a requirement. It's how you get picked.

I get off the plane, and try not to be star-struck.

I'm a four, but on the rough lower end of it. My father is a jeweler, and could provide us a 'middle-class' living and an education, but finery's were just that:work. I didn't want to wear them, and I didn't have a chance, and my Father separated them as much as possible.

The place is beautiful, but I can hardly see it through the crowds and cameras. Nothing about them is very exciting, more scary than anything. People cheer my name, but I didn't have any signs or crazy fans. The girls are ushered through into the doors, where I'm separated from the group by a vibrant blonde.

She pulls my arm as harshly as Rowan did, her only words are that of explanation. "Prep team."

She throws me down into a rather uncomfortable chair, where a ginger and another blonde begin to knit themselves over me.

The first blonde begins washing my hair, pulling through the knots as though I hadn't washed it this morning. The other two girls, who can barely be much older than myself, begin to fawn over me.

The ginger begins painting my nails a shade I can't see. "Look at her eyes!" One of them says, perhaps the second blonde. "Blue and brown; so very pretty!"

The first blonde wraps a towel around my sopping hair, looking at my face. "Yes, actually! Vivienne, get the sparkling eyeshadow. Marie, the mascara."

It seems as though it takes forever, but they have my hair curled, nails painted, eyes beautified by the head of a half-an-hour. The ginger, taking charge, grabs me by the hand and leads me to a room, where a dresses hanging.

I'm not a dress person, but the dress is beautiful.

I've never really owned a dress that fancy. It's so green, the color of the forests back home. I honestly don't like how long it is, full and fluffy to my feet, prohibiting movement of most kinds. Still, I reach out and stroke the tulle.

The ginger helps it on, and the blonde snaps another picture.

I can't help it; I feel pretty.

I do a few twirls, watching the dress puff up and around me, laughing. I think they're still taking pictures, and I don't care.

When I'm done, I ask,

"Can I have a pair of shorts to go under this?"

Blonde One says no.

It is my first disappointment of the day.

Sylvania, on her float.

I stared at the crowd, this had never unnerved me, though I had never seen a crowd of this mass. Most were cheering for me, but I could see several people (Namely my supposed best friend) mumbling under their breaths in a mixture of jealousy, disappointment, with a touch of the want of revenge. I tried not to think about it, instead I thought about the float, all my own work. Chinese dragons spewed fire from their long snouts, each scale layering over the other with painful accuracy. Their dark shade of blue almost matched my jeans, and the yellow of the highlights matched my T-shirt, presumably the last one I was going to see for a while. I couldn't figure out what to do with my hands, I could not help but fidget. The float ride was relatively short, and so was the car ride for that matter, in comparison to the plane flight that is. It was so painfully long that I even tried to talk to someone, this attempt ended in failure due to my stuttering language I found that I used with people I first met.

After I walked the red carpet, which I found quite annoying due to all the cameras being in my face. I ended up in a beauty salon, they undid my braided hair that was cris-crossed over a rather large bun. My hair flowed down almost to my hips, they teased it for a while, then undid what they had done. They kept trying and trying for a new look, but due to the changing light my hair seemed to change colors so frequently that nothing seemed to fit me. Eventually they returned it to the state in which they had found it, only slightly better. They painted my nails with that kind of paint with a chemical that changes color with temperature. Again, with my mascara they messed with it until they settled for a hue that made my face suttly more pink. They dressed me in the following dress, which utterly horrified me, even though it appealed to my figure:



It looked, to me anyway, like the sleeping beauty dress from way back when in the 20th century. I could never have afforded it, but I wouldn't have even if I could. I found that in this light, the mascara conflicted with my eyes, making my usually kind and modest figure into something of a rebel-looking thing. I swallowed my pride to be seen in a pink dress, and walked back out onto the red carpet, where even more photos were taken. Now they were going to teach me how to be a lady. This was going to be a rough week, I loved getting dirty, riding bikes, doing some sports, getting sweaty, pretty much everything ladies aren't seen doing on their deathbeds.

_______________________________________________

I arrived, and a private tutor came out to greet me, her hair was a startling ebony black, her skin seemed pale, but I could see that that was just her mascara. Her cheek bones protruded, and her face seemed rather elongated. She stared at me, her eyes asking where they picked my scum up, but that quickly receded into a "friendly" tone as she escorted me to my new room.

The amount of people lining the streets was insane. I had never seen so many in one place. I was still having a hard time wrapping my mind around the fact that they were cheering and screaming and waving for me. My parents had taken my camera and pictures before I got on the float. I wasn't supposed to be taking pictures of the people, the people were supposed to be taking pictures of me. I kept finding myself drawn to the excited little girls in the crowd. The way the sun hit their faces made their eyes glitter. Small crinkles by the corners of their mouths appeared when they laughed and smiled. The wind blew wisps of their hair into their faces, just enough to make them look as if they were behind a wavering curtain. They looked beautiful and I needed a picture.

Of course there were other girls who weren't so happy to see me on the float. To be honest, I wasn't sure if I wanted to be on the float. All I wanted was inspiration, I wanted a new experience. I didn't realize everything that'd come with it: the jealous stares, fame, rumors, and maybe even a crown.

There were a few butterflies when I thought about Prince Jaison. Ever since my spot in the Selection was secured, I didn't give much thought about him. I'd seen him on the TV every once in a while but why dream about something that's so out of reach? I decided earlier that if it wasn't going to work then I'd leave. There's no point in taking someone else's spot who actually had felt a connection. I do want it to work with the prince but he has thirty four other girls vying for his attention. The odds aren't exactly in my favor.

The parade, although slightly weird watching it from the selected's point of view was nice. Just seeing all those different people coming together, so many unphotographed faces and unheard stories. I just found enough inspiration to make this whole thing worthwhile.

"Izzy?" Mom's fingers snapped in my face, yanking me from my thoughts. "Come on, hon." She held out her hand and helped me off of the float.

"I think you want these for your trip?" Dad smiled, giving me my Polaroid and creased tan leather bag. He pressed his lips together, on the verge of tears. I knew it was hard for him to let me go.

"I'm going to be fine, Dad." I assured him. He nodded and pulled me into a hug.

Mom was next. "Goodbye, sweetie." She whispered in my ear then kissing the top of my head. "We're gonna miss you."

"I'll miss you too." I said, giving them a small nervous smile. A man I didn't know escorted me into a car and closed the door.

****

I had never been on a plane before. I was sitting across from a few girls, very pretty girls, who I wanted to ask if this was their first time as well but I kept my mouth shut. The takeoff was rough. The loud noises and bumps frightened me a bit, but it was easier once we were in the air. The sight was amazing. The further we were, the smaller the provinces got. Soon, they looked like large green squares. I pressed my hands against the small window, trying to get closer. It was unbelievable. Until then, I hadn't even begun to comprehend the immensity of our world. I'm insignificant yet important at the same time. I'm a speck of dust dazed and confused in this giant world. I took a picture.

The Polaroid spit out of the bottom. I waved it around for a moment until changed from blackness into the picture I had taken. Biting back a smile, I stuck it in my bag.

****


When we got off the plane, we were greeted with more crowds. They screamed and cheered as we stepped off. I was swept into another car with the same girls from the plane.

"Next stop, the palace!" One of them whispered, excitedly. She peered out the window, chewing on her lip. Her dark eyes were wide and hopeful as she looked out. Discretely, I took another picture. My camera made a small noise when the picture spit out which was amplified due to the silence in the car but the others pretended not to notice.

The drive to the palace was pretty short in comparison to the flight. As soon as I stepped out I was pulled into a crowd of girls. I followed quietly as we were lead into a large dressing room. The crowd thinned out as girls were paired up with their stylists. A firm hand grabbed my arm and sat me in a chair.

A small team of people began forcing a brush through my hair, painting my chewed nails, and plucking my eyebrows.

"Ouch," I hissed as they yanked some more on my hair.

"Honey, have you ever brushed this?" Someone behind me asked.

I shrugged. "Sometimes when it's wet."

She muttered something I didn't catch. The lady painting my nails reached for my left hand and gasped when she saw my tattoo.

"Sandy.." She gaped, pointing.

"Well don't just sit there, we don't have much time." The woman behind me, Sandy, snapped. "See if make-up will cover it."

My newly trimmed eyebrows furrowed. "Why do we have to cover it up?"

"It's just not the most ladylike, hon." She explained, slathering tan cream over it. "Now's not the time to unveil it."

I sighed, slightly annoyed but let her attempt to cover it up. Once my hair was done, the lady wasn't pleased that my tattoo was still faintly visible.

"I suppose she'll just need sleeves then." Sandy huffed, bustling over to the rack of dresses. She came back with an array for me to choose from. Only one caught my eye, the cream colored lace dress. Sandy helped me into it and it was gorgeous. I'd never owned or worn anything as lovely and expensive as that dress. The lace went just up the bottom of my neck, the sleeves stopping a few inches before my wrist which was enough to conceal my tat. A rose pink ribbon was tied around my waist, accentuating my figure.

I noticed the other girls were being lined up. I reached for my bag and camera but Sandy stopped me.

"You can't take those out there!" She cried. The look on my face must've been heartbreaking because she softened her voice and for the first time she smiled. "Don't you worry, I'll take care of it."

"Thank you." I muttered.

I took in a deep breath and joined the other girls. I listened as they chattered on about the prince and their expectations. Nervousness began to bubble up inside me but I pushed it away. I would make this trip worthwhile.

Melonie Lynn Trenton

My going away parade was today, we were all happy that I was becoming a lady (if that is what you would call it.) My mom has hope that I would win but in all honesty, I wasn't so sure, I mean do you see how gorgeous and lady like many girls are?
I don't view myself as ugly, but I most certainly am not "beautiful." I sat in my room and searched through a pile of dresses my mom and aunt went and bought. They were crazy if they thought I would wear something too short. I preferred dresses to be at least knee length but my favorite would be the long elegant gowns that were thin but still showed much beauty.
After searching, I found the dress that I would wear, it was perfectly elegant and long. I walked out to my parents room where my mother was researching. "This is it." I tell her with an excited tone, my mother knew how long I had waited to get the chance to meet an actual prince. They chose me out of millions of girls that could have been chosen, I was definitely dying inside.
Mom saw the dress and smiled. "That is perfect for your skin tone." she tells me. I am happy to know that she approves. I walked back to my room and stood in front of my full body mirror swaying around with the dress in front of me.
"With light make up and some white or black heels, that would look totes perff." my sister Lynn told me. I laughed at how she could stand there using the words "perff" and "totes" and still manage to look so serious.
"Well then you can choose what pair of shoes I wear with it. They are all in my closet." I tell her and point to my walk in closet.
All of my siblings were still angry that out of all of us, I had gotten the walk in closet. They knew it was only fair since i was the oldest, it still didn't stop the whining.
Lynn picked a pair of black heels for me to wear and I was happy because they were definitely breath taking all on there own. "You need to get dressed, we leave in an hour." she told me and walked out of my bedroom.
I smiled once she was gone, without another word I began to get dressed. It was nice of the town to actually throw me a going away parade and my mom and dad prepared my float all on their own but with some money sent from the palace.
----------
I was stunned once I saw the float. It was beautiful and I was definitely happy to be the one and only one up there. I felt like I was the queen of our city, at least for the brief time I was up there.
Everyone in town was blowing kisses, waving, and hooting for me. I couldn't help but blush. I felt perfect and nothing could ruin how I felt, at least not at this moment.
-------
Mother drove me to the airport and we rode in silence. I sighed and looked out the window, my stomach churned, this was my first plane ride and yet I had to ride with two other girls which I knew nothing about.
Once at the airport it didn't take long to actually see the two girls I was suppose to ride with. We all greeted one another.
"My name is Melonie." I tell them.
They both smiled, "Tessa." the brunette answered.
"Lindie." the blonde had said.

We all shook hands and got on the plane, I was happy that it was first class because not many people were on there.

"So are yall as nervous as I am?" Lindie asked.

"I'm not too nervous. Like really, we either have a connection with him or we don't." Tessa answered.

I was kind of shocked at her answer. "Well, not exactly. I mean it is mainly about connection and all but what about his personality?" Lindie said.

"I think he will be great." I tell them and smile.

"How can you be so sure?" Tessa asked.

"I can't really. I just think he will be kind. I have to think positive about all this, I mean, I hope he isn't cruel." I tell them.

We sat in silence the whole ride, at least until I passed out.
Once we got to the main airport there were many people there and they held signs up with Tessa and Lindies names on it. I saw one with mine and it made me smile. It said "Melonie wins!" on it. I was happy that someone had so much confidence in me.
"There someone is!" Lindie pointed to a male with our names on the board.

"Are you here for us?" Tessa asked the man. He nodded.

We all got in the car and he we rode to the castle. They were both fidgety most of the way there. I got a little nervous.
I hope he is sweet. I thought to myself. My whole life, all I wanted was a nice guy that I could talk to and just be myself around, maybe it will be him?
We arrived at the castle and stepped out. It was magnificent and the best view I ever saw. Once we were inside the doors there was a lady there to greet us.

"My name is Grace, I will be your instructor." she says with a bright smile.

I smiled back and she led us to a room full of girls. They were somewhat loud and were getting their hair and nails done. I smiled to everyone but no one was actually paying attention.
"Wow, all these girls want the prince?" Tessa asked in a mumbled tone.

I was quickly rushed off to a chair, the lady started brushing make up all over my face, I almost choked. She put eye liner and more blush then shoved me into a very dark black dress, it was definitely long and elegant. I was in love. It went down to touch the floor. I glared at myself in the mirror and noticed how different I looked, for once in my life I could say that I was beautiful.

Smiling, I knew I was ready for whatever was ahead.

є๓เlเค ๒гץภภ

"Her, the one with IQ 185."
"Her, the one who's too busy studying that she won't even speak to us."
"Her, the one that is always giving us dirty looks."

To tell the truth, the only true thing about all that is my IQ. They never invited me to hang out with them, but I did try to talk to them. They turned up their noses and walked away. They were the ones giving the dirty looks. Since I was always sitting, studying, the angle of my face made me look mean. And so they never did talk to me. I'll show them now. I was always better than them, although I didn't rub it in their face. They're left behind while I try my best to win over the prince. They didn't see it coming, but neither did I. Yet I am always calculating, always making sure everything is perfect. When I got the form, that's what helped me. It's not up to fate, for sure. All I have to do is do the math.

There's lots of cheering. Even the girls from my block are trying to look happy for me. I smile genuinely and wave from atop my float. It's all I can do.
"I'm only here because all of you helped me become who I am today! Thank you," I say over the crowd. Oh, of course it's not true. I was my father's pride and joy. He raised me to be who I am. They were just some sad, sad background music. Mostly, that is. I'm hardly paying attention, but I am doing my best to look likable enough to get on the favorites list. It's not all that important, really! But it does help.

I am a lady of the Selection. I was chosen for my beauty and talent to compete for the heart of the prince. Oh, but of course that sounds cheesy. All I have to do is try, right? I sit tall, trying to look as confident as I can. I let a man help me off of my float and I hug my dad before I walk into the black car, smiling for the cameras and signing autographs on my way.

--

I'm the first to arrive at the airport, so the car must have been driving at a dangerous speed. I wait as the others arrive and I look them over. We're all here, and so I board the plane and start reading a book. Soon we land.

"Hello ladies, I'm Officer Dullaghan, there are citizens outside, and they're waiting to catch a glimpse at you. You must be quick, for you guys are slightly behind schedule." He nods. "Lady Emilia, you will exit first." He put his hand on the small of my back and helps me down the steps. As soon as I am out of the plane, I am blinded by the flashing of cameras. I smile and then I continue walking. The others follow me.

--

We are rushed into a room full of stylists which is, according to the lady named Grace, called the Woman's Room. I am instantly paired off with a stylist named Isabella. She sits me down in a chair. She doesn't speak to me, but applies many types of makeup to my face, but not enough to look caked on or unnatural. She forces me to put on a blue dress and I'm on my way faster than I can say supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.

Anastasiya

I flick my hair back as I survey my room. I had packed all of my valuables so that my father couldn’t steal them. The door opens, and I swing around to face my sisters. The all tromp in, somber expressions on their faces. I fly over to them and gather them into my arms.

“Anya, do you have to go?”

“Sweetheart, I’ll be back before you know it.” Nataliya and Viktoria huddle together, but Irina stands apart from us, hands in her pockets. I glance at her, and after giving the little ones one last squeeze, I send them out the door, saying, “Go to Mama and tell her that she should give you a slice of the cake I baked last week.” They shriek with joy, pain forgotten, and run off, leaving me with Irina.

“Say goodbye to me, Ira.” Her lip trembles, and she relents, hugging me.

“Please don’t go.” I sigh.

“I have to, Irina. You know that.”

“Then take me with you.” She looks at me beseechingly, and I almost say yes.

“Darling, you know I can’t. But I have a gift for you.” She perks up at that.

I go over to my bed and dig under the mattress until my hand touches a cold metal box. I clasp it and draw it out and press it into her hand.

She takes it and opens it- and then gasps. “Oh, Anya, you didn’t- you shouldn’t have-“

“Oh, shush. It will be fine. Besides, you can remember me this way.”

“Why are there two rings, Anya?”

I laugh. “One for you and one for me, of course. Luckily, we’re the same ring size, so you can have either. So? Choose.”

She grasps the green stone, and so I take the purple. We slide them onto our ring fingers and clasp hands. “Thank you, Anya.”

“Ires, I’d do anything for you. Besides, I nicked a necklace off of a Two last week. It was covered in bunches of small stone, and I figured nobody would really care if there were a couple missing.” That was a lie. The price had fallen by a couple hundred, but it was worth it, to see a smile on Irina’s face before I left.

She steps back from me and disappears in her usual way- probably to get ready, to see me off. I let myself smile for another second before I traipse downstairs. I see my father’s figure in the kitchen and step in, slowly.

“Father.” My voice is cold. Every atom of my being flinches in revulsion as he turns to face me.

“Yes, Anastasia?”

I study him. “Remember what I told you.” I had bribed him into leaving my sisters alone until I came back- if I came back. Hopefully not. Hopefully, Prince Jaison would choose me, and I’d finally be able to protect my sisters.

I dress for the parade, and sit on top of my float. People cheer from me, but I look at girls from the upper castes and laugh inside. Nearly all of them have the same expression- one of jealousy and indignation. Finally, it’s over, and I say goodbye to my family.

My sisters rush forward to hug me, and Irina taps her ring against mine. I nod to my father, and then my mother comes forward to embrace me. I lean towards her to give her a quick hug, but she holds me there and quickly whispers in my ear, “Anya, I’m sorry, for everything, all these years. Do us proud sweetheart, and please, please, forgive me. I extricate myself from her embrace and am ushered into a car. Eventually, we get to the airport, but I’m unable to enjoy the ride there. All I can think about is what my mother said to me- why she decided to apologize- now.

I manage to shake off my worries after we get to the airport. There are a few people with signs that are pulling for me. I smile at them and wave, but let myself be pushed onto the flight. I settle back into my seat and twist my ring around on my finger. A few other girls arrive, but I don’t bother to look up- I just sink back into my seat and let myself be consumed by worry.

Finally, we land at the palace after what seems like a lifetime. A girl pushes me into a chair, and a makeup team quickly makes me over. I tell them to go easy on the makeup, and when I see the finished product, I smile. My hair is still mine- long and dark, but they’ve coaxed it into soft waves. My eyes are covered with smoky eye shadow, and it makes me seem mysterious. They quickly help me into a dark greenish, olive-y dress. It’s soft, and it clings to me. I twist my ring again and wait, my heart pounding in my chest.

Ariel Morelle

I rubbed a piece of silky fabric in between my index finger and my thumb, savoring the feeling as Grace, our silver-haired adviser, stated rules.

"You must stay clean. Personal hygiene is a responsibility.
You all must keep your virginity, and we know you all have already confirmed that.
You cannot leave the palace on your own accord. You have to be dismissed by the Prince. Even the Queen and King can't force you out.
There is no set time for The Selection, it can be over a amount of days or years.
You do not arrange your time with the Prince, he will seek you out for one on one. If you're at a social event that is different, but you do not go to him without an invitation.
You're not to fight or sabotage the other contestants.
If you lay hands on another girl, cause her stress, stealing from her, or doing anything that might diminish her personal relationship with the Prince, it is in his hands whether he dismisses you on the spot.
Your only romantic relationship will be with Prince Jasion, I you are writing any love notes to anyone here or having a relationship with anyone in the palace you are punishable by death.
Your status as one of the Selected does not put you above the law. You will be punished just the same.
You will not wear any clothes or eat any food that has not been provided to you by the Palace, this is a security measure and will be strictly enforced.
On Fridays you will present for all Capital Report broadcasts. On occasion, but always with warning, there will be cameras or photographing in the palace, and you will be courteous and allow them to see your lifestyle with the Prince.
For each week at the Palace your family will receive a cheek.
Should you make the top ten, you will be considered an Elite. Once you reach that status, you will be required to learn about the particular inner workings of the life and obligations you would have as a princess. You are not permitted to seek out such details before that time. From that moment on, you're a three.
If the prince was to ask you to do something you do not turn him down for it would be unwise. Even if it's kisses, or more than kisses."

My brain felt like it was going to explode. More than kisses? I can't believe that was a rule! All the girls in the room looked at each other.

Everyone was dressed in variations of purple, red, blue, and pink. I seemed to be the only on wearing white. I smiled at that thought.

"Okay. Now that we've gotten through that, I'm sure you all wondering what's next. You all look lovely! Okay, in the next room we have a bunch of Report cameras. They will interview you and take photos of you for their makeover edition." She looked us over, as if to make sure we all looked perfect.

"Just remember to be polite and answer any questions they might have!" She smiled and opened the door to let through the first ten. I was in the second group and had to wait as they all smiled and got their photos taken.

She pushed my group through the door as maids showed the other girls to their rooms. I smiled meekly and a young lady smiled back.

"You look beautiful! You're Ariel Morelle, correct?" She acted as if she already knew, but decided to make sure.

"Yes." I looked down but then straightened up, trying to seem ladylike.

"Tell me, how does this makeover suit you?" She clicked her pen, ready to write.

"Well, I love what they did to my hair, leaving it my natural color, but they added highlights and lowlights which makes it look really cool when it catches the light. I also like that I'm the only one wearing white." I smiled at her while she scribbled the words.

"Yes, It makes you stand out!" She smiled, which made me feel like I had made a good choice.

"How do you think you'll do in this competition?" She glanced at me, curious at my response.

I bit my lip, thinking over my response. "Well, I hope I will do well, and I hope that if I do win I will be a worthy Queen for wonderful Illeá!" I smiled again, going over my response again and again in my head.

"Okay! That's all for questions, now we need to take a picture." She pointed to a spot in front of a window to the gardens. "Just stand right here and smile."

I slightly smiled, but more gazed with intent, hoping I'd come off elegant.

She nodded, "Perfect!" and pointed me towards the maid that was supposed to lead me to my room.

She curtsied, "Lady Ariel!" She seemed almost giddy with excitement as she led me to my room.

It was quite simple, with a giant, beautiful, white grand piano on the wall to the right. I almost cried at the expensive instrument, I've never played on something so pretty. I walked over to it, running my fingers on it's keys. I played a C, and it's tone was so crisp, so beautiful, the tears spilled over. It was only then that I realized there were people watching me.

By my make-up dresser stood three maids with worry in their eyes. "My lady? Are you alright?" said the one in the middle who had brown hair in a bun with warm brown eyes and a few freckles sprinkled her face.

"I am, sorry. This piano, it just so beautiful..." I looked at the white piano again, and then looked back at the three girls.

"I'm being rude, I'm Ariel, you are?" I smiled at them.

The one on the left giggled, and the girl in the center pinched her side. "I'm Ana," The brown eyed girl in the middle smiled, and then curtsied. "This," she said, gesturing to the girl on her left who had blonde hair and blue eyes, "Is Whitney." Whitney curtsied, blushing. "And then this is Alice." She pointed towards the girl on the right, who had strawberry blonde hair with green eyes.

"Nice to meet you all." I smiled at them. They all blushed and looked down.

"Do you need anything? Let us help you get ready for bed." They started working on me immediately, removing all my makeup and jewelry. They undressed me, another weird experience, and put my in my flimsy night dress, a short dress that didn't have much to it.

"Anything else Lady Ariel?" They all smiled.

"I think I'll be alright." I waved them away, and fell on the bed.

I was asleep three minutes later.

Diana twirled round in her dress, delighting in the way it caught the light, and laughing in dizzy delirium. Her makeup artists laughed, and the young one (Diana imagined she must be about eighteen) squealed and clapped her hands.
Still giggling, Diana stopped herself by digging her heal into the ground.
"Where am I supposed to go next?"
"You'll be off to see Grace," said the Older stylist, "she's your advisor. Its her job to watch you with hawk eyes to make sure you don't put a toe out of line."

***

"You must stay clean. Personal hygiene is a responsibility.You all must keep your virginity, and we know you all have already confirmed that."
Diana had been wondering what Grace would be like, but now everything was obvious. She was smiling, but her smile was an accessory, chosen that morning to match her lipstick. Behind that, she was as cold as a stone, and twice as dangerous. There was something all-seeing in the way she looked intently at each girl in turn, analyzing them.
"You cannot leave the palace on your own accord. You have to be dismissed by the Prince. Even the Queen and King can't force you out."
Diana zoned out for most of the talk. She had read most of it already, in the small print of the candidate selection forms. Anyway, it was all well known from the press coverage. One point towards the end however did catch Diana's attention.
"Or more than kisses..."
A few of the girls looked shocked, and Diana muttered under her breath "Wie eye y'bugger man." A girl next to her started giggling at her strong Hartlypool accent, but soon stopped under Grace's icy stare.

***

"And smile!"
Diana had been shoved into a small room with an interviewer and film crew. The interviewer stank of rose scented perfume, and the air in the room felt thick. The interviewer leaned over Diana like some sort of praying mantis.
"So, did you like your makeover?"
Diana didn't really know what to say: She hadn't the faintest idea what the stylists had done, and didn't much care.
"Aye, it's very nice."
The interviewer smiled a thin, papery smile.
"And how do you think you'll fair, in the selection that is?"
"I think I have a decent chance of getting to the top ten anyhow. I just hope the Prince is musical."
The interviewer asked a few more questions, and the camera squad took a few more pictures. Diana was stifling. She got claustrophobia on occasion, and the room was small, busy and poorly lit. When she waa finally allowed to go she was very grateful, and went straight to her room.
As Diana approached her room, she heard the sounds of chatter coming from inside. She pressed her ear to the door and listened.
"Yes, she's very musical apparently." said one voice. It was a female voice, and sounded young and mousey.
"Yeah, but I don't know what she looks like." said another.
Diana opened the door slowly.
"Quick, in line!"
Diana opened the door fully. Three maids stood in a line, all quite young and looking slightly guilty.
"Hello Lady Montana."
The older one kicked her. "It's 'Good evening,' not 'Hello'!"
Diana laughed. "Please, call me Diana. And yes, I am quite musical, but you can't have a rendition now. I am knacked."
With that she slumped onto the bed, and almost instantly fell asleep.

Basil Barie- Four- Second Post

I was standing in a room of super models.

Okay, so not really, though I think I recognized a few from posters and whatever, but post of them were normal girls like me. Every one of us was all dolled up in pretty dresses and make-up, so I'm sure even the most 'normal' of us could make a poster they'd send around the country.

I picture myself on a poster, leaning against the wall, mouth round and pouting as I modeled my parents own necklaces. I shudder a little bit. I don't mind looking pretty, but that seems a little much.

After the make-overs, we all come out into a bigger room where a woman waits. She looks very official, and leaps up when she sees the steady stream of girls, dusting off invisible dirt. I elbow my way to the front, standing next to a blonde girl cream-colored dress.

"Who's she?" I ask the girl, who seems caught in observing the woman.

The woman, her blonde hair feathery and pale, could be twenty-five or forty. She seemed ageless and dignified, her eyes scanning us all, taking it all in quickly.Her gaze makes me feel almost embarrassed. I pull up the bodice on my dress.

The girl shrugs, watching the woman herself. "I'd guess our adviser? She seems the type, and we're supposed to have one."

I don't even know what an adviser would do. I'm about to ask, but the woman clears her throat. The room, shoved with girls, quiets. Impressive.

"My name is Grace, and I'll be your adviser." I look over at the blonde next to me, and she smiles slightly back at me. "I'll be overseeing your time here, making sure you obey rules, and -most importantly- teaching you how to be a lady."

A lady? Did I really sign up for this? I don't remember that being in the description. I don't even know the first thing. I don't think I like the definition of 'adviser'?

"Let me go over the rules," Grace says. She speeds through the list, already having memorized them herself. It's a little hard to follow.

I catch something about virginity, and I check that easily off the list. Like I can get a boy I'd actually want to keep. And then to, you know, to have, um, sex with him? Well... Yeah. No. Absolutely No.

I catch a few things about clothing, and I sigh inwardly. I wish this adventure had a few more pairs of pants.

"Lastly," Grace says, "If the prince was to ask you to do something you do not turn him down for it would be unwise. Even if it's kisses, or more than kisses. "

A few girls blush at this, and a few nervous titters break the silence.

A girl next to me mutters- I don't know is it's Blonde or not-"That's a nice contradiction."

Grace eyes us all again, and quiet falls over the crowd. "You'll have interviews with the news momentarily about your makeovers. You'll then meet your maids in your room. Split into your plane groups, please, and you'll be called on."

We split into our plane groups, called in alphabetically, so I don't have to make nervous conversation for long. I'm taken to another, smaller room, where an over-perfumed newswoman introduces me.

"Welcome now, to the program, contestant Basil Barie, four, of Angeles." The newswoman smiles at the camera, than at me. "How are you doing today, Basil?"

"I'm excited, a little nervous, but mostly excited."

"Right, of course! It's been a really eventful day for you, hasn't it? Well, you look lovely."

"Thank you. I feel really fancy. I wasn't really sure about the dress they picked out, but it's really fun."

"Fun? Do you mind explaining?"

"I didn't wear a lot of dresses back home, not long ones like this. I have to admit, I like spinning around in them!"

The newswoman laughs, but it isn't a real laugh. It's a part of her job, I'm sure. "And your make-up?"

I'm not really well-informed on this topic, but I'd hate to sound stupid. "It really brings out my eyes, I guess. They did a good job on my hair, too. They've got very talented stylist here."

"That they do! Thank you, Basil! Good luck in the competition!"

The camera man shuts off his camera. "That's all?" I ask.

"We've got thirty-four girls. We have to make the segment short. People will only watch for so long. Ina?" A serving girl, who has been waiting in the corner, shuffles up. "Send in the next one, and take Miss Barie to her room, please."

The girl nods. We push pass the hoard still in the bigger room, and she leads me through so many hallways I start to get confused. Finally, we reach a room with my name hung on the door. Ina opens the door for me, and is gone.

Three girls are inside. One is dusting the mirror, one re-straightening a bedsheets, and one lying on a small couch.

The bedsheets girl sees me first. "I'm Violet. This is Daisy," she shots couch girl a look, and couch girl sits back up," and Rose."

I have to laugh to myself a little. The placement of maids was a good sign already. "Well, someone thought they were clever. It's nice to meet you, though. I'm Basil, and I suppose our names match."

"Yes ma'am," Couch Girl, Daisy, says. "They wanted to give you an early bouquet."

Rose makes a subtle movement, like cuffing Daisy over the ear. I laugh. "I like it. Though, there isn't really anything to clean right now... I still like meeting you."

"No ma'am." This is Rose. "This is a mere introduction, or asking of preferences."

"Is there conditioner in the bathroom?"

"Yes ma'am."

I spring onto the bed. The pillows bounce up. "Perfectly happy then, thank you."

"There's nothing else we can do for you?"

"No. I might get needier as I go, but nothing now, thanks."

Violet nods, her lovely dark hair swinging out from her bun. "We'll be around if you need us, ma'am."

"Kay."

I lay my face in the soft pillows.

I could get used to this.

Melonie Lynn Trenton

I was standing in a room full of beautiful girls. They looked marvelous; I had a lot to think about already. I was shoved back in a chair and they dusted me with every single piece of makeup you could possibly come up with.

Afterwards, I got the chance to look into the mirror one last time. “I’m actually beautiful.” I whisper to myself as I slide in some heels they supplied me with.

A few minutes later a slender woman, the lady I had met earlier, came into the room. She began talking about the rules, “You must stay clean. Personal hygiene is a responsibility. You all must keep your virginity, and we know you all have already confirmed that. You cannot leave the palace on your own accord. You have to be dismissed by the Prince. Even the Queen and King can't force you out.
There is no set time for The Selection; it can be over an amount of days or years.
You do not arrange your time with the Prince; he will seek you out for one on one. If you're at a social event that is different, but you do not go to him without an invitation.
You're not to fight or sabotage the other contestants.
If you lay hands on another girl, cause her stress, stealing from her, or doing anything that might diminish her personal relationship with the Prince, it is in his hands whether he dismisses you on the spot…”

She rambled on some more about the rules but I zoned out because I kept looking around the room at how beautiful they were. It would definitely be hard to surpass most of these lovely ladies. The last part of Grace’s speech stunned me because she basically had just told us we had to do whatever the Prince wanted us to do.

I sighed; surely I wasn’t ready for this. I couldn’t let any of it get to me though. She then explained how we would be going to get interviewed about our make- up and then go to our new rooms. I was elated.

Not even two seconds later I was shoved into a room with cameras and camera people. “Wow you look marvellous.” The lady told me. I smiled and sat down in front of her.

“So Melonie, how do you like your new look?” she asked.

“It is most certainly beautiful.” I reply with a smile. I didn’t want to say too much or look bad on camera.

“How do you think you will do in this competition?” She asked.

I thought for a moment before answering, the question sort of made me nervous, “I hope I do well, and at least make it to the top ten.” I tell her and keep a smile.

She smiled back. “I think you’ll do fine.” She said.

“That’s all the questions. Go with Mary, one of your maids and she will take you to your room.” The lady said and turned away to get started with another girl who came in.

I smiled at Mary and she led the way. “So Miss Trenton, how do you like being a princess?” she asked me.

I was happy to actually have a normal conversation with someone. “It’s okay! I think this will be interesting competition.” I tell her.

Once we finally got to my room there were two more ladies sitting there waiting, “Hello Miss Trenton, I am Martha and this is Betsy. We are your maids.” Martha told me. I curtsied and sat down on the bed. Before I knew it, I had passed out. Today was stressful.