Submission (#1694) Approved

Today was the day. The day Jasper had eagerly awaited since last year, the Melody of Festivities party. Last year, he’d failed to enter the dance competition in time, but this year, he signed up extra early. And now it was today.

The brown furred Terralien pulled up his brown slacks, fixing them right below his hips before slipping into his pair of lucky cowboy boots. Though, Jasper didn’t need luck to win. He’d been practicing all year ‘round. Lastly he grabbed his cowboy hat, setting atop his tousled brown hair. Now he was ready to go, and out the door he went.

It was a bit of a chilly December afternoon, but that was expected. Luckily Jasper had his fur to keep himself warm as he headed to the venue. There were already all sorts of other Terraliens there. It was a party after all. The place was all decorated in lots of shimmery decor, and music was playing loud for all to hear. There were tables full of food, snacks, and drinks. And almost everyone was dancing and having a good time. Thankfully, Jasper had plenty of time before the competition, so he could relax and have fun before it was time. And that’s exactly what he did. First he headed over to the snack table, grabbing himself a cup of hot apple cider. Perfect for the chilly festival day. Then he headed out to the dance floor. He needed to warm up a bit.

The day went on like that, Jasper and everyone else having a great time. As it got later into the day, the venue lights started to flick on, illuminating everything in many brilliant colors. The dance competition would start soon.

Jasper checked in with the dance competition judges and staff, letting him know he was here and ready, he got his number, 12 out of 12. He was the last dancer. He couldn’t decide if that was a good or bad thing. On one hand he was a bit anxious to get his turn, but on the other, he’d have time to size up all the competition. The stage lit up, and, without further ado, an announcer walked on stage.

“Good evening ladies, gentlemen, everyone,” the Terralien spoke eloquently. “The event you’ve all been waiting for is about to begin! Please, put your hands together for our first dancer!” The announcer told the crowd, which erupted into clapping and cheering as the first dancer walked onto stage. Music began to play, and the Terralien began their choreography.

Each dancer came and went, the crowd going wild for each one. Until, the 11th dancer finally finished their routine. Exiting the stage. The announcer walked onto the stage once more. “I’m sure you’re all having a good time! Unfortunately, the dance competition has just one more competitor for y’all to watch! Give it up for.. Jasper!” The announcer shouted, signaling Jasper onto the stage. He made his way up, stepping up the steps on the side and walking into the stage lights. This was it. Country music began to play and Jasper started to dance. As he did he felt the rush of adrenaline course through him. His routine came to him so easily on the brightly lit stage. And just like that, it was over.

It was a grueling 30 minutes before the announcer stepped onto the stage for the last time that night, holding a silvery envelope with him. He caught the crowds' dispersed attention. “Thank you for your patience everyone! I will now announce our winner of the dance competition, thanks to the judges and everyone’s votes, the winner is… Jasper!”