Work Text:
SETTING:
In the theatre shortly before SONGBIRD gives her performance. She is pacing nervously in the wings while the ENTERTAINER checks the lighting. The NOBLEMAN appears backstage to have a word with the SONGBIRD before she sings. The SONGBIRD’s anxiety spikes when she notices the NOBLEMAN.
SONGBIRD (taken aback): Oh, Nobleman! I did not expect to see you back here at all. Is something wrong?
NOBLEMAN: No, not at all. I just wanted to see you one last time before your performance and make sure you were alright to sing.
SONGBIRD (twisting her skirt in her hands): Of course I am, there’s no need for you to be concerned about me.
The NOBLEMAN walks past her, peeking out through the curtains.
NOBLEMAN: I just figured I should check. You’re one of my favorites, after all, and it would be a shame if I missed your last performance.
SONGBIRD (stuttering): My- my last performance?
SONGBIRD (blushing): Your favorite?
NOBLEMAN: Yes, and yes. Last performance I’ll personally be able to attend, I mean. I have some. Things I’ll be needing to attend to in the coming sweeps and will have much less time for entertainment like yours.
SONGBIRD: That’s quite a shame. I was just surprised is all, I can’t recall ever seeing you in the crowd before.
SONGBIRD: Though I suppose it is hard to see from where I stand.
NOBLEMAN: I’m sure. I believe you have heard already from the others at this party that I asked for you by name. Do you think yourself so little to not be noticed?
SONGBIRD: Not so much that, I think you a tad too high-class to stray so low with your entertainment standards. Not that I think you’re being low-class right now but, oh All-Mother, my apologies.
NOBLEMAN: No need to apologize, Songbird. I don’t find offense in what you say to me.
The NOBLEMAN steps closer to the SONGBIRD and takes her hand. The SONGBIRD reflexively steps back, but doesn’t pull her hand away.
NOBLEMAN: Try not to sell yourself short, you have wonderful talent.
SONGBIRD (stunned): You’re awfully kind to me Mr. Nobleman.
NOBLEMAN: I try to take care of my guests. Do have fun with your performance tonight.
SONGBIRD: I will do my best, thank you.
NOBLEMAN (walking away): No need to thank me. We’ll speak after your show.
Flustered, the SONGBIRD waves a soft goodbye as the NOBLEMAN leaves.