Chapter 6 – Prime Time

After the exhilarating match with Seasons, Magali found herself catapulted into the realm of stardom. Her breathtaking performance had been captured on camera and uploaded to DanceTube, quickly amassing a staggering number of views. The people of SweetDance City as well as fans from all corners of the world, hailed her talent and eagerly anticipated her future performances. The sudden surge of attention from both within and outside the city was both thrilling and overwhelming for Magali.

Initially, Magali had aspired to lead a modest life as a local idol, quietly honing her skills and entertaining a smaller fanbase. But fate has other plans in store for her. The relentless spotlight refuses to dim, and the clamor of adoring fans follows her wherever she goes. The once comforting anonymity she sought is now a distant dream.

Feeling a mixture of excitement and anxiety, Magali makes the decision to retreat back into her Trainee class, seeking solace in the familiar rhythms of practice from her instructor. She longed for the peaceful refuge it once provided, hoping that the storm of fame would eventually dissipate.

Days turns into weeks, and as time passed, the feverish fervor surrounding Magali begins to wane. The constant attention slowly subsided, granting her moments of respite where she could traverse the bustling streets of the city without being mobbed by zealous fans or fellow idols. A sense of relief washed over her as she realized she could finally breathe easy, liberated from the suffocating weight of expectations that came with being Julian's daughter.

However, unbeknownst to Magali, the city possesses an uncanny ability to awaken dormant idols from their self-imposed hibernation. It possesses an enigmatic allure, capable of drawing out their raw talent and pushing them beyond their limits, whether they desire it or not. There is an unspoken force, an invisible current that coursed through the city's veins, relentlessly tugging at the heartstrings of those who possesses the gift of performance.

At her Trainee class, Magali experiences another productive day alongside Leilah and her other classmates. Their synchronized movements and shared passion for dance create an atmosphere of camaraderie and growth. As the class comes to an end, her fellow trainees bid their farewells and disperse, their energy still buzzing from the exhilarating session.

However, just as Magali is about to make her exit, Leilah's voice cuts through the fading chatter. "Magali, can you stay for a moment?" Leilah's tone holds a mixture of urgency and intrigue, hinting at the importance of their impending conversation. Curiosity mingled with a hint of apprehension flickers in Magali's eyes as she nods and follows Leilah towards her office.

Once inside the office, the door closes behind them, enveloping them in a cocoon of privacy. Leilah takes her seat behind the desk, her posture exuding a sense of authority. Magali settles into the chair opposite her, her nerves amplifying with each passing moment. She tries to decipher the expression on Leilah's face, but the dance instructor's features remain inscrutable. There's a subtle tension in the air that Magali can't quite place, leaving her with a growing unease.

Leilah crosses her legs, one stiletto dangling from her foot as she fixes her gaze upon Magali. The silence lingers, amplifying the weight of anticipation. Magali's mind races with possibilities, wondering what important matter could have prompted this private meeting. She senses that whatever Leilah is about to reveal cannot be shared in the presence of others.

As the seconds stretch into eternity, Magali's nervousness escalates. She feels a tingling in her fingertips and an unsteady drumming of her heart. The unknown looms before her, and she braces herself for whatever revelation lies in wait. Leilah's demeanor remains neutral, neither conveying anger nor annoyance, yet there is an undeniable air of seriousness that casts a shadow over the room.

Magali takes a deep breath and says, "is everything okay?"

"I had a meeting with the council, and they are not very pleased," Leilah responds.

"Why? What's wrong?" Magali asks, her voice filled with concern.

Leilah leans back in her chair, her expression grave. "Apparently, they've noticed that you haven't been doing any performances since your match with Seasons. Many fans are disappointed and have started unsubscribing from your channel. While it might not be a problem for most idols, your lack of performances is starting to affect the city's reputation badly. People saw what you are capable of, and now the fans want more."

Magali's head tilts down, a mix of surprise and guilt washing over her. She had no idea that her performance with Seasons would have such a significant impact, to the point where even the council is taking notice. But deep down, she never came to SweetDance City with the intention of becoming a famous idol—just enough to get by and pursue memories of her mother.

Feeling the weight of responsibility settling on her shoulders, Magali musters the courage to respond. "Fine, I'll try to do more performances. But can it wait a little? I don't think I'm prepared for so much responsibility just yet."

Leilah's gaze remains fixed on Magali, "that's not going to be good enough, Magali. Remember, this is not a school for idols; it's your job. You willingly signed up for this, and the council is expecting great things from you."

Magali's heart sinks as she considers the consequences of her hesitation. She takes a deep breath and musters the courage to ask, "and what if I can't meet their expectations?"

Leilah sighs, her voice tinged with regret. "Then, Magali, you will be retired until you are ready to assume your role again."

A gasp escapes Magali's lips, her eyes widening with the weight of Leilah's words. She has seen what happens to idols who are retired—many of them end up taking ordinary jobs around the city or leave if they can't handle the pressure. Working a regular job would consume the precious time they need to practice and refine their skills. The thought of becoming another forgotten idol fills her with a sense of unease and fear.

"I understand," Magali responds, her voice heavy with disappointment.

Leilah sighs again, her tone softening. "Seriously, Magali, how are you even paying your bills?"

Magali looks up, confusion etched across her face. "Bills? What bills?"

Leilah's disbelief is evident as she shakes her head. "Seriously? Your crew leader isn't charging you rent?"

Magali's eyes widen, realizing that she has been oblivious to the financial obligations that come with being an idol. The thought of rent and other expenses hadn't crossed her mind amidst her intense focus on dance. A mix of embarrassment and concern washes over her as she grapples with this realization.

Back at the crew hall, Magali sits down with Conrad, their conversation turning to the financial obligations of being an idol. Conrad chuckles, realizing that he, too, neglected to discuss this aspect with Magali.

"Yeah, Leilah is technically right. We don't call it rent around here. It's more like 'crew contributions,'" Conrad explains with a wry smile.

Magali frowns, still trying to wrap her head around the idea. "What it's called isn't the issue. How come you never asked me for money to live here? I had no idea that idols have to pay rent just like everyone else."

Conrad scratches his head sheepishly. "To be honest, I've been covering the crew's rent by myself ever since my other crewmates left. I got so used to it that I forgot to ask for any contributions from you."

"How much is the rent, anyway?"

Conrad takes a moment to calculate. "Let's see... The hall costs five thousand. Each crewmate pays a quarter of that, and the leader covers the rest."

Magali gasps. "That's still a lot of money! Can idols really afford that?"

Conrad nods confidently. "Of course. Three performances a month can easily cover that expense. And that's for relatively new idols. If you're talented and gain a strong following, you can make an impressive amount of money and even move into a better crew or buy your own house."

Frustration seeps into Magali's voice as she sighs. "That's why Leilah asked about rent. If I had been charged from the beginning, I would have known that idols must perform to live here."

After a brief moment, Magali gathers her thoughts and asks, "so, how do I even start a performance?"

Conrad leans forward, ready to guide her. "First, you need to rent a timeslot in the Dance Square."

Magali's eyebrows shoot up in surprise. "Wait, that also costs money?"

Conrad nods. "Indeed. It's how the economy of the city works. Idols rent space on the stage for fans to watch them. After the performance, they get paid based on the number of subscribers they have on DanceTube. But the stage rental isn't the only expense. Unless you write your own music, you'll also need to pay for licenses to use any songs you sing and dance to. There are also costs for props, backup performers, stage workers, new costumes or outfits, and more."

Magali lets out a sigh, feeling the weight of the financial obligations. "Okay, I understand. You need money to make money. So, how do I get started?"

Conrad points to the computer in the corner of the room. "That's where you begin. You can use it to make all the necessary arrangements for your performance. Once everything is set, the council takes charge of advertising and ensuring that fans fill the seats in the Dance Square."

Magali and Conrad gather around the computer, their eyes scanning the application to start a performance. However, her excitement quickly gives way to disappointment as they realize another obstacle on Magali's journey. The cost of renting time on the stage proves to be a significantly higher than she expected. Magali's heart sinks as she realizes that one mistake has compounded into another. Despite coming to the city with some savings, the expenses of daily life such as food and cosmetic maintenance have depleted her funds over the past few months.

"I can't believe how expensive it is just for a few minutes," Magali exclaims, frustration lacing her voice.

Conrad suggests, "well, you could always ask your dad for a loan. He might be willing to help you out."

Magali's eyes darken with resolve. "No, Conrad. I made a promise to myself that I wouldn't ask my dad for a single dime. I want to prove that I can make it here on my own, without relying on his money or influence."

Feeling the weight of the situation pressing upon her, Magali leans back in her chair, contemplating her limited options. "I guess I don't have a choice. I'll need to find a job until I can save enough money to start doing performances. But if I do that, the council will retire me. It means I'll have to start over once I've saved up enough."

Conrad's guilt weighs heavily on him as he reflects on the setback Magali faces. He had done his best to support her journey as an idol, and now a small mistake threatens to derail her progress. Determined to make amends, he crosses his arms, deep in thought. After a moment of contemplation, an idea forms in his mind—a plan that could not only help Magali regain her momentum but also propel her towards stardom once again.

"Why don't you do a performance with me?" Conrad suggests, his voice filled with newfound determination. "I have a gig coming up tomorrow."

Magali's eyes widen with surprise. "A gig? What do you mean?"

"I'm going to be appearing on a TV show called Prime Time," Conrad explains with excitement. "Prime Time is one of the most popular musical shows in the industry, with the highest ratings no less. It's a great opportunity, and I’ve been invited to perform on that show. This can be a golden chance to attract publicity for yourself."

The thought of performing on TV leaves Magali both excited and uncertain. "On TV? Are you serious? But will they even allow me to perform on such short notice?"

Conrad stands tall, a spark of confidence in his eyes. "Leave that to me. I'll take care of everything. Just come to the studio dressed in your idol outfit and let me do the talking."

Magali's skepticism melts away as she sees the conviction in Conrad's gaze. The prospect of performing on a widely watched television show fills her with a mix of excitement and nervousness. She knows that this opportunity could be the turning point she needs to reignite her idol career and prove herself once again.

With a nod, Magali agrees. "Okay, Conrad. I trust you. Let's do this. I'll come prepared, and I'll give it my all on that stage."

Conrad smiles, his faith in Magali reignited. "That's the spirit, Mags! Together, we'll make this performance a moment that the audience won't forget. It's time to seize this opportunity and show the world your undeniable talent."

As they finalize the details and make their preparations, Magali's excitement grows, overshadowing any doubts or fears. She knows that this unexpected chance to perform on Prime Time could change everything for her. With Conrad by her side and the promise of a televised stage before her, Magali is determined to shine bright and reclaim her place in the spotlight. The journey may have encountered hurdles, but now they stand on the cusp of a new chapter—one that holds the promise of renewed fame and the fulfillment of their dreams.

The next day arrives, and Magali makes her way to the studio located in the northeastern part of the city. As she approaches the grand building that houses many TV shows including Prime Time, a wave of nervous excitement washes over her. The studio stands as a testament to the grandeur of the entertainment industry, and she feels a flutter of anticipation in her stomach.

Dressed in her mother's idol outfit, Magali enters the studio, its spacious halls filled with state-of-the-art equipment and bustling crew members. She scans the area, searching for the studio that records Prime Time. Once she finds the studio, she walks in and finds Conrad, her heart pounding with anticipation. He is engaged in a conversation with someone who possesses a distinct European accent.

Hoping that Conrad has already discussed her inclusion in the show, Magali confidently walks up to them. As Conrad notices her approach, he turns toward her with a smile.

"François, this is the idol I was talking about," Conrad says, gesturing towards Magali. "We definitely should let her perform with me."

François, a seasoned producer with a discerning eye, scans Magali diligently, carefully assessing her potential as an addition to the show. After a moment of contemplation, he turns to Conrad with a regretful expression.

"I agree that she is a lovely idol," François begins, his tone sincere, "but as I already mentioned, we are already over-budget. We simply cannot afford to accommodate another idol in the show at this time."

Magali's heart sinks at François' words, her disappointment evident as she tilts her head down. She had hoped that this opportunity would be her ticket to reclaiming her place in the spotlight, but it seems that financial constraints stand in her way. However, Conrad, ever the quick thinker, still has a trick up his sleeve. A sly smile spreads across his face as he responds to François' statement.

"Well, François, it's truly a shame," Conrad says, his voice tinged with feigned disappointment. "I mean, just think about how disappointed the fans would be if they found out that you're turning down the daughter of the most famous idol, Julian Artisan."

François' eyebrows shoot up in surprise, his attention now fully captured by Conrad's words. The weight of Julian Artisan's name reverberates within the industry, instantly evoking a sense of awe and excitement. François realizes the potential impact Magali's connection to Julian could have on the show's viewership and buzz.

"You're saying she's Magali, Julian Artisan's daughter?" François asks, his voice filled with intrigue.
Conrad nods, maintaining his confident demeanor. "Absolutely. Mags here is the daughter of the legendary Julian Artisan, an icon whose name still holds immense power and influence in the world of idols. Just imagine the excitement and anticipation from fans if they were to discover that his talented daughter is gracing the stage of Prime Time. Are you really going to pass this up?"

François pauses, mulling over the newfound possibility. The prospect of having Julian Artisan's daughter perform on the show could not only generate substantial attention but also create an undeniable buzz that could elevate the show's ratings and reputation to new heights. After a moment of contemplation, François excuses himself from the conversation and steps away to make a phone call to his boss to have the budget increased and get Magali paid for her performance. Magali watches him, her thoughts swirling with a mix of anticipation and unease. Turning to Conrad, she expresses her concerns.

"Are you sure this is okay? I mean, I already hate the idea of using my dad's name to solve my problems, but this is a lot," Magali admits.

Conrad reassures her, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Just relax, Mags. In this situation, everyone wins. Yeah, your dad’s name did help, but it will be your talents that will bring home the bacon. Your talent deserves to be recognized, and this opportunity will give you the platform you need. Trust me."

Magali furrows her brow, the weight of uncertainty still lingering. "But how can I relax? I don't even know what I'm doing. I haven't had a chance to look at the script or know what kind of music they'll be playing. What if I mess things up and make a fool of myself?"

Conrad winks at Magali with unwavering faith. "Just follow my lead. When the music starts, mirror my movements. Then on my signal, let your own creativity shine through. I trust you, Mags. Do you trust me?"

Magali takes a deep breath, her mind whirling with conflicting emotions. She recognizes that Conrad has been immersed in the idol world for years, while she is still relatively new to the industry. Yet, she has come this far, defying her own doubts and fears. She resolves to give it her all and see where this opportunity takes her.

Just as the anticipation settles between them, François concludes his phone call and approaches them with a smile. "Okay, everything is in order," François announces. "Take your places, and we will start filming soon. This is your moment, Magali. Show us what you're made of."

Magali takes a deep breath, summoning her courage. The studio lights illuminate the stage before her, and the energy of the moment crackles in the air. With Conrad by her side and the support of the crew, they step into their designated spots, ready to embrace the challenge and leave her mark on Prime Time.

As the cameras start rolling and the music cues up, Magali's heart pounds with a mixture of nerves and excitement. The time has come to unleash her talent, to prove that she is more than just the daughter of a famous idol. With every movement, every beat, she will strive to captivate the audience and carve out her own path in the world of music and dance. This performance is her chance to shine, and she is determined to make it a moment that will be remembered for years to come.

Conrad holds up a microphone, his voice projecting with vibrant energy. "What's up, Prime Time! This is Conrad Howard, and life is a party! I know you were all expecting me to give you a private performance today, but guess what? I have a special surprise for you all. I'm bringing out a guest who is not only a good friend of mine but also a true force of nature in the world of idols. You all know her name, so let's make some noise and give a warm Prime Time welcome to the one and only Magali Anna Artisan!"

The live studio audience erupts in applause and cheers as the spotlight shifts to Magali. A mix of excitement and nerves fills her being as she steps forward, her heart pounding with anticipation. The crowd's enthusiastic response fuels her determination, and she takes a deep breath, ready to unleash her talent and make her mark on the stage.

“All right! Let’s get this party started! Showtime!”

The music begins to play, and Magali locks eyes with Conrad. As his energetic moves fill the air, Magali mirrors his motions, syncing their dance seamlessly. Every step, every twist and turn, Magali immerses herself in the music, letting her passion guide her movements.

As the song continues to pulse through the air, Magali's intuition guides her, weaving seamlessly with the rhythm and melody. Her body seems to move on its own accord, flowing effortlessly with the music, each step and gesture synchronized with Conrad's lead. The live studio audience becomes captivated by her natural grace and infectious smile, drawn into the exhilarating energy of her performance. With each beat, she feels a newfound sense of liberation, shedding her doubts and embracing the exhilarating freedom that comes with being an idol. As she dances, a radiant smile continues to spread across her face, reflecting the joy and excitement she is feeling in that moment. Magali relishes in the thrill of the performance, fully immersed in the world of music and dance, and for that fleeting time, she feels the true essence of what it means to be an idol, basking in the sheer enjoyment of the art form and leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of all who witness her electrifying presence on stage.

“Showtime,” Conrad shouts. The live studio audience cheers, but Magali knows that this is the signal Conrad spoke of. Conrad moves to the side, letting Magali takes center stage, her own unique style and charisma shining through. With each beat, she adds her personal flair, showcasing the artistry that sets her apart. The crowd becomes captivated by her performance, the energy in the room building with every twist and turn.

Magali's doubts and fears fade as she immerses herself fully in that moment. She realizes that this is not just about living up to her father's name but also about embracing her own identity as an idol. She dances with joy, pouring her heart and soul into each movement, sharing a glimpse of her true potential with the world.

The live studio audience is swept away by Magali's talent, their cheers and applause echoing throughout the studio. It's a magical moment, a testament to her dedication and the power of her artistry. Magali feels a surge of pride and gratitude, knowing that she is delivering a performance that is touching the hearts of those who are watching.

As the final few notes of the song resonate through the air, Conrad extends his hand towards Magali. With a smile, she accepts his gesture, their hands intertwining in a symbolic display of unity and trust. Conrad raises their clasped hands, and Magali gracefully orbits around him, their synchronized movements showcasing their combined talent and unwavering connection. The live studio audience watches in awe as they become the embodiment of harmony and artistry, their every step radiating passion and skill. In one fluid motion, they execute their final dance move, perfectly synchronized as the music fades into silence. The live studio audience erupts in thunderous applause, their cheers echoing through the studio, as Magali's heart races with exhilaration. The overwhelming response of the crowd validates their performance, filling her with a profound sense of accomplishment. In that moment, amidst the deafening cheers and adulation, Magali now knows that she has not only proven herself as a worthy idol but has also touched the hearts of those who witnessed their mesmerizing collaboration.

As the curtain falls, François approaches Conrad and Magali, his face beaming with excitement. "Conrad! Magali! You both did an incredible job out there. The ratings came in, and they are, as they say in America, off the charts," he exclaims, his voice filled with pride.

Conrad grins, his confidence shining through. "Since when have I ever steered you wrong?"

François chuckles, realizing his folly. "You're right. I should have never doubted you."

He then turns and walks away, leaving Conrad and Magali to savor their triumph for a brief moment. "Get some rest," he calls over his shoulder. "We're on a commercial break, and then we'll be back with the next song."

Magali's eyes widen with surprise. "Wait, there's more?"

Conrad reassures her, "of course! Prime Time is an hour-long show after all.”

“Why didn’t you mention that sooner! I don’t know if I can dance for that long!”

“Don't worry about it Mags. It’s all in a day’s work being an idol. If you can handle this, you’ll be able to handle anything. Trust me, I'll be right here with you."

A sense of determination washes over Magali as she looks at Conrad. She may not have anticipated the challenges and demands of becoming a true idol, but she refuses to let uncertainty and fear hold her back any longer. With Conrad's unwavering support and belief in her abilities, she knows she can face whatever lies ahead.

Magali smiles and nods, her confidence renewed. Despite the unforeseen hurdles, she embraces the excitement that fills her heart. As the commercial break comes to an end and the curtain rises to show the fans anticipating the next performance, Conrad and Magali walk back onto the stage, their anticipation building with each step. The journey to becoming a true idol may be challenging, but with their hearts united in passion and their talents ready to shine, they are prepared to give their all and continue captivating the audience with their electrifying performances.

From this moment forward, Magali embraces her role as an idol with a newfound sense of confidence and purpose. The success of her performance on Prime Time reaffirms her belief in her own abilities and ignites a passion within her to continue pursuing her dreams. She revels in the exhilaration of the stage, the adoration of the audience, and the joy of sharing her talent with the world.

However, little does Magali know that fate has other plans in store for her, ones she is not yet prepared to face. The path of an idol is often filled with unexpected twists and turns, challenging both their skills and resilience. The journey she embarked on with Conrad is just the beginning, and the future holds a myriad of possibilities—some filled with triumphs and others with unforeseen obstacles.

As Magali basks in the glory of her initial success, she remains oblivious to the trials and tribulations that lie ahead. The world of idols can be both thrilling and unforgiving, demanding constant growth and adaptation. She will soon discover that her journey is not a straightforward ascent to stardom, but a winding road of self-discovery, personal sacrifices, and unwavering dedication.