Drama at the Theatre

by sweetie buttons

[St Clare's] [Malory Towers] Alison O'Sullivan and Rachel Denman are spending the holidays together when they run into Mavis and Zerelda Brass. They quickly become friends upon realizing their similarities.

Rachel Denman walked down the street with her friend Alison O'Sullivan. They had thoroughly enjoyed their time together in the holidays, and had a pleasant time in town that day. But it was only a few days before Alison had to return to St Clare's while Rachel had to return to the De Winter Academy. The more Rachel listened to Alison's tales about her school, the sorrier she felt that she wouldn't be returning.

"Carlotta really did that?" Rachel asked in awe.

"I know! Sadie had to be terrified when she showed up to rescue her on horseback," Alison chuckled. "As much as Fern was when she fell off that horse while stupidly trying to ride. And Carlotta rescued her then as well, didn't she? She's a real heroine."

"Yes, she is," Rachel agreed, before making a face. "But don't talk about Fern. I'm glad I won't have to see her again."

"None of us will, since she isn't returning either. And I'm glad as well," said Alison. Then she sighed. "But, at the same time, I do feel sorry that both of the new friends I made ended up leaving. Just like Sadie in the first form."

"I'm sure you'll make new friends," Rachel assured. "And you have your cousins, don't you?"

"I suppose," Alison sighed. She came to a stop at the large theatre at the end of the street. "I say, Rachel, look at that! Have you ever performed there, by any chance?"

"A few times," Rachel said. "We sometimes did plays here when we weren't performing at the stage at school, but it was pretty rare. But it seems to be closed right now."

"Are you sure?" Alison stepped closer. "I think I can hear something inside. Yes, there's definitely someone there. Singing at the top of their voice! Gosh, I wish I could sing like that."

"I heard that there's supposed to be a play here," Rachel admitted. She was surprised to realize she could hear the muffled singing as well.

"There is?" Alison exclaimed, stepping back. "Right now?"

"No, it's supposed to be in two days," Rachel explained. "Everyone was insistent about when it took place. This must be a rehearsal. Probably a dress rehearsal, and they decided to practice here for some reason. Yes, that's probably it. I didn't see anyone lining up outside the theatre."

"Oh, how wonderful!" Alison exclaimed. "That's right before I have to leave. We could see the play on our last day here."

"I suppose," Rachel muttered.

Alison frowned. "What's wrong, Rach?" she asked, using her new nickname for her friend. "Wouldn't you like to see the play? I'm sure your parents would agree."

"No, it's not that," Rachel said, turning away. "I suppose I'm just less excited by theatre now. I know that sounds silly, since I'm going to be returning to the drama school. But…"

"But you aren't an actress anymore," Alison realized. "Well, cheer up, Rach. Nobody's asking you to take any role on the stage."

"Yes, you're right," Rachel agreed, deciding Alison wouldn't understand. "I shall ask my parents. They're very fond of you. I'm sure they'll be more than willing to book the tickets."

Alison beamed while they turned and headed back to the tea shop, still chatting. The next moment, Alison yelled in surprise as they heard footsteps behind them. Rachel cried out as she felt somebody bump into her, knocking her over. She glanced over to see a tall blonde girl. She looked terribly upset, but froze upon seeing Rachel.

"Oh, I'm so sorry!" she frantically apologized in an American accent, reaching over to help Rachel up. "I didn't see you there."

"Er… it's alright," Rachel said, taken aback as she observed the girl. Alison was as well, staring at her in admiration. She looked at least twenty, tall and willowy, but didn't seem much older than both of them. She had the beauty of a film star, with her pile of blonde ringlets and rosy face coated in makeup. She was also wearing a gorgeous, frilly dress. Rachel couldn't help thinking that she had come right from the theatre.

The girl stared back at Rachel, observing her carefully as well. She seemed just as surprised to see her, but Rachel wasn't entirely sure why, since she was much more plain. The next moment, they saw another girl rushing by just as quickly. She was less glamorous, but just as pretty with her red hair in a fancy braid and a silvery dress.

"Zerelda! Zerelda, you idiot!" she was calling in an annoyed voice. "Come back! You ruined the play, and then you just rush off like that?" Zerelda! Rachel thought in surprise. Good gracious, what a name. But it seemed to fit the girl.

"Oh, I ruined it?" Zerelda asked scornfully in her American drawl. "You're the one who kept singing like you were in the opera."

Rachel noticed Alison quickly turning her attention to the red-haired girl, her mouth falling open in surprise.

"You're Mavis Allyson, aren't you?" Alison asked breathlessly, interrupting their quarrel. They both turned to stare at her in surprise. "My mother and I saw you on television. You sang so marvellously. Even at home, I was amazed by your voice."

Mavis smiled, seeming to enjoy flattery. "Yes, I did, didn't I? It's no wonder I was chosen as the lead in the play."

"Oh!" Alison exclaimed. "You were the one who was singing in the theatre, weren't you?"

"Yes, I was," Mavis agreed. "You heard me?"

"Gee, it's no wonder they heard," Zerelda added. "I imagine everyone in the country could hear you, and even everyone back home in America. And you were wearing the same outfit as you did on television." Zerelda glanced at Alison. "That's why she recognized you."

"I'm Alison O'Sullivan," said Alison, still staring at Mavis longingly. "You lost your voice, Miss Allyson?" Rachel jumped, realizing how similar Mavis's last name was to Alison's first. "I can't believe that. You sounded so amazing on television."

"That was before I lost my voice," Mavis explained. "And please, call me Mavis. Why, you look the same age as me!"

As Alison kept speaking eagerly with Mavis, Rachel noticed Zerelda staring at her again. "I say, you look familiar," she remarked. "Have I seen you before, like your friend has seen Mavis?"

"I don't think you have," Rachel said awkwardly, starting to realize why Zerelda recognized her. "Were you an actress in the play? It's an honor to meet both of you."

"I've got it!" Zerelda exclaimed. "You're Rachel Denman, aren't you? The daughter of Sir Robert and Lady Helen Denman."

Rachel groaned. She was used to people recognizing her due to her famous parents. She used to love it, but now she didn't. "Yes, that's right."

Zerelda's face lit up, and she started fawning over Rachel the same way Alison was to Mavis. "Oh, I can't believe it! I'm such a huge fan of your parents. They're such wunnerful actresses. Just wunnerful. Did you see them in that movie? Do you have their talent?"

"Well…" Rachel began.

"Oh, where are they now?" Zerelda demanded. "I'd love to get their autograph. You know, I used to be an actress as well. Or rather, I wished I could be one, like Lossie Laxton. But your parents are great too."

"My parents are busy," Rachel said truthfully. "They aren't around."

"Oh." Zerelda looked disappointed.

"Rachel and I were just talking about seeing the play," Alison added. "It is in a few days, isn't it? Are you two in it?"

"Yes, and Mavis is the lead," Zerelda explained. "I'm just in a small role, and I failed even in that. I told myself I'd say all of my lines quietly and quickly, and I managed to at first. But then I couldn't help myself. I started acting like I always did, and I wasn't even looking where I was going when I bumped into Mavis."

"It was my fault as well," Mavis groaned. "I sang so loudly, I barely noticed anything else. The others were most annoyed."

"Is that why you ran off?" Rachel asked curiously.

"Yes, because we couldn't handle the shame," Mavis admitted shamefully. "I really should've known better, after I lost my voice. I told myself I wouldn't strain myself, but I couldn't help it when all of the spotlight and attention was on me. And there wasn't even anyone in the audience yet!"

Rachel was about to say something when Alison interrupted. "I say, Mavis, I think I heard something about that. Is it true that you ran away from school and tried to sing at Billington, but they wouldn't let you?"

Mavis glanced down while Zerelda glared at Alison. Rachel gave Zerelda a look, thinking she didn't have any right to be cross when she had just demanded things from her. "Yes, it's true," Mavis admitted. "My classmates all said I was swollen-headed, and I suppose they were right. I thought everyone had to hear my voice. They wouldn't let me sing, and I had to walk home in the cold. I couldn't speak after that, and I told myself I'd never get so arrogant again. But I guess that was unrealistic to expect. I couldn't help myself just now. Oh, I wouldn't be surprised if I lost my voice again."

"Neither could I," Zerelda agreed. "I expect the actors must be furious at us, and I can't blame them. We ruined the rehearsal. But at least you could actually sing, Mavis. You have such a wonderful voice. But I can't act at all."

"It wasn't entirely your fault," Mavis assured. "Ever since the director left, we've all been off our game."

"The director's gone?" Rachel asked.

"She was taken sick recently," Zerelda explained. "Our teacher said she'd fill in for us, but she hadn't arrived yet, so we decided to start without her. But we didn't realize how difficult it would be without a director."

"Rachel here is a wonderful director," Alison added. "She directed the school play at St Clare's, and it was wonderful." Rachel smiled.

"St Clare's?" Zerelda frowned. "But didn't you go to the De Winter Academy?"

Rachel flushed while Alison gave Zerelda a look. "She's going back there next term, but I don't believe it's any of your business."

"No, of course not," Zerelda hastily agreed. "I just heard that the famous actors sent their daughter there." She quickly changed the subject. "If your parents are busy, could you give me your autograph instead, Miss Denman? I'm sure you're just as wonderful of an actress, if you were at that drama school."

"I don't think we have time, Zerelda," Mavis said. "We really should be returning to the theatre."

"I know," Zerelda groaned. "But I'd like to put it off. The others will be simply furious at us."

"Listen, why don't you two come along with us?" Rachel suggested. "We were just going to have tea. And I'll sign your autograph for you there if you want."

"Yes, do let's," Alison pleaded, staring eagerly at Mavis. "I mean, I wouldn't want to disturb you. I'm sure you have more important things to do, but…"

Mavis smiled. "Oh, why not? I was getting sick of rehearsing, and even singing. Actually, my throat is beginning to ache again." She winced. "I probably shouldn't sing anymore. I could do with some tea."

Zerelda and Mavis followed them to the tea shop. A few people turned to stare at the nicely dressed girls, clearly realizing they were part of the theatre, but they thankfully didn't say anything. Alison eagerly asked Mavis all about her singing, but Mavis remained silent while sipping her tea. She was very serious about preserving her voice, and ashamed for becoming so conceited. Thankfully, Alison backed off. Zerelda stared admiringly at Rachel, who wondered what she'd think about her if she knew the truth about her.

"Tell me more about the play," Rachel suggested. "What part do you have?"

"Oh, not a large one," Zerelda said. "It's very small, actually. And I messed even that up."

"I'm sure that's not true," Rachel assured.

"It is," Zerelda groaned. "I tried not to at first, but I couldn't help myself. I performed almost as terribly as I did at Malory Towers. That's the school Mavis and I go to. I thought I was talented, but I wasn't in the slightest." She sighed. "I guess the drama teacher was right. I guess I should give up acting altogether."

"The teachers at my drama school said the same thing," Rachel added. "Before I was sent away."

"They did?" Zerelda exclaimed. Mavis glanced at her in surprise. "I mean, not that it's my business…"

"No, it's fine," Rachel assured, glancing around. To her relief, nobody seemed to be listening. "It feels nice to get it off my chest, and I think you'd understand."

"You're going to tell them, Rach?" Alison exclaimed. "But you were so upset when Fern did."

"That was before," Rachel insisted. "Thinking about it now, she probably did me a favor by telling everyone the real reason I was sent away."

"Wasn't it just because you wanted to be an ordinary schoolgirl?" Zerelda asked. "That's why my parents sent me to Malory Towers. And I suppose they were right. I learned there are more important things than being an actress."

"That's partly the reason my parents sent me away too," Rachel admitted begrudgingly. "But not entirely. I'm not like my parents. I simply can't act. They expected me to follow in their footsteps, but I don't have any of their talent at acting."

There was a brief silence. "Really?" Mavis asked quietly.

"Gee, I never would've thought!" Zerelda exclaimed. "But you can't be as awful as I was. You should've seen me, throwing myself around and speaking at the top of my voice like I was a famous actress in the theatre. It must've been very funny to the other girls. Gosh, did the drama teacher give me a reality check. She said such scathing things to me. But thinking about it now, I realized it was the kindest thing she could've done, letting me know how untalented I truly was."

Alison scoffed. "I almost wish the drama teacher at my school did the same thing," she admitted. "She buttered me up with kind words and fake smiles, but she didn't actually think anything of me in the slightest. She was only humoring me, so I'd adore her."

"I wish my teachers were as honest too," Rachel added, having heard about that before. "I would've realized sooner that I didn't have my parents' talent for acting, but they were too afraid of upsetting my parents. But I am glad they sent me to St Clare's. They helped me realize I have other talents. And that's why I'll be returning next term, for the new course in writing and directing."

"Gosh!" Zerelda exclaimed. "Who would've thought? And I don't have any talent for theatre at all. Don't worry, Rachel, I won't tell anyone. Your secret is safe with me."

Rachel laughed weakly. "It isn't really a secret anymore, though it seemed like it at the time. It definitely won't be when I return to the academy and face all of my friends. I'm sure they'll be disappointed to learn I can't act."

"That isn't such a big deal," Mavis assured in a soft voice. "There are plenty of actors in a play, but only one director or writer."

"That's right," Zerelda agreed. "I wish our director hadn't gotten sick. It shouldn't matter much, since it's only a few days, but we didn't realize how difficult it was to keep everyone in line without one. It's one of the most important jobs, since there's only one."

"I suppose we'd better be returning now," Mavis added, pushing her mug away. "I feel better, but I'm not sure if I can sing."

Suddenly, Alison's eyes lit up, and she smiled at Rachel. "I say, Rachel! Why don't you come along to the theatre with them?"

"Huh? Me?" Rachel demanded.

"You are a marvelous director," Alison reminded. "You did such a good job in the school play. I'm sure you'll be able to help them, give them a few pointers."

"Oh, no. I couldn't," Rachel insisted. "I don't know anything about the play. Well, I did hear about it, and I have a good idea of how it goes. But I'm sure they wouldn't like me to overstep my boundaries."

"Are you serious?" Zerelda demanded. "We'd be honored to have the famous Rachel Denman see our rehearsal. I'm sure the other actors will be thrilled once you tell them who your parents are."

"Yes, and our teacher doesn't seem to be showing up, so she wouldn't know," Mavis added. "I'm sure it wouldn't hurt if you came along for just one rehearsal."

Rachel hesitated. She really had enjoyed directing, much more than she ever liked acting. "Alright, I'll do it, if you're really fine with it," she agreed. "But you won't make too big a deal about my parents, will you? I'd rather just be treated normally." She thought about how she used to love having famous actors as parents.

"Oh, of course, if that's what you want," Zerelda agreed. "Don't worry about that, honey."

"I'd better stay here," Alison suggested. "I don't think they'd appreciate having two people interfering."

"I wish I could as well," Mavis quipped. "I'm definitely not well enough to sing again. And they'll probably be glad I'm not."

"Oh, Mavis!" Zerelda groaned. "You better be by the night, or that awful understudy of yours will take over."

"I almost wish she does," Mavis quipped, sounding much more humble than before. "She was a better actress than me, and she even wanted to be much more. I was only chosen because of my voice. You know what, tell her she can take over."

"That's very generous of you, Mavis," said Zerelda, surprised. "I didn't know you had it in you. Maybe I'll let the others take over my part as well. I was also only chosen because of my looks. I'm not nearly as wunnerful as they think. In fact, I'm not wunnerful at all. I care too much about how I look to focus on acting."

"I say, Rach, she sure reminds me of Sadie," Alison whispered to Rachel. "Are all American girls like that?"

"No more than all Irish girls are like you and your cousins," Rachel shot back.

"Right, of course," Alison agreed sheepishly. "I didn't mean it like that, but they sure are similar."

"I'm more surprised that you aren't fawning all over her like they said you did with Sadie." Rachel smirked. "I guess I won't have to chant Zerelda Says."

"Oh, shut up!" Alison hissed, embarrassed.

"Huh? Zerelda says what?" Mavis asked, confused.

"Nothing," Alison assured. "You shouldn't talk too much, Mavis. Rest your voice. You have such a beautiful one." Rachel realized she still hadn't outgrown worshipping others, even if she was less silly than before.

Alison seemed happy to stay behind with Mavis while Rachel followed Zerelda to the theatre. She was thrilled to be directing again, but she wasn't as eager to be the center of attention as before. The girl kept speaking with her the entire time, telling her how she moved to Malory Towers from America and dreamed of being an actress. She seemed much less ashamed than before, even managing to laugh at herself. She seemed very good-natured, without any conceit like her friend Mavis or Rachel had at first.

When they arrived at the theatre, the others were surprised to see Rachel. Zerelda quickly introduced her.

"Don't you all know who this is? This is Rachel Denman," she announced, as if expecting a standing ovation. When there was silence, she added, "You know, the daughter of Sir Robert and Lady Helen Denman? She's come to direct the play."

There was a bit of a reaction to that. The other actors murmured and stared in awe. Rachel began to feel self-conscious.

Before she could explain, one of the girls with a spiteful sneer interrupted. "Really, Zerelda? It's not bad enough that you just ran off, now you have to bring somebody else back who's probably as stuck up as you are?"

"I know, Elsie. And I am sorry for how I acted," Zerelda apologized. "It was most unacceptable of me. I shouldn't have let myself get carried away like that. I know it's an annoyance to all of you when I show off, and I know I can't act very well at all." The others murmured in agreement, surprised by Zerelda's humble words. "Mavis is sorry, too. She also felt guilty for showing off."

"Where is Mavis, anyway?" Elsie demanded, scowling. "Still showing off to everyone in town, I expect."

"Actually, she said she didn't feel like singing anymore," Zerelda explained. "She's taking a break."

"I'm not surprised, with how loudly she was belting," Elsie scoffed. "She was probably hoping she could drown out all of us, and she did."

"That's unkind, Elsie. She does have a great voice," Zerelda insisted. "And she felt bad about singing so much. She said you could take over for her."

"She did?" Elsie exclaimed.

"Yes, for this rehearsal, at least," Zerelda admitted. "She's in no position to be singing. She needs to rest her voice, and she said you could instead. Come on, show us what you can do. You'll definitely be a better actress than me."

Elsie looked shocked both that Mavis had asked her to take over and that Zerelda had acknowledged her poor acting. "I'd love to," she agreed, her eyes shining with excitement. "But what about her? Will she really be the director?"

"Not if you don't feel comfortable with me doing so," Rachel assured. "I mean, I wouldn't want to be demanding. I just figured, since I have such good training in being a director, I could help out a little."

"It's only for one rehearsal, like you taking over for Mavis is," Zerelda insisted. "And you have to admit, you've all been off your game since Cathy got sick. Rachel is supposed to be a great one. She goes to the De Winter Academy, you know."

"She does?" one of the girls exclaimed. "Oh, I've always wanted to go there! She must be an amazing actress."

"Well, not as much as my parents," Rachel admitted. "I'm much better at directing. I heard your director is ill. I don't intend to replace her, but I could stand in for her just for the rest of this one rehearsal. That is, if you want my help. I'd understand if you didn't."

"Are you serious? We'd be honored!" Rachel let out a sigh of relief as she heard the others muttering in excitement. "Having Rachel Denman to direct us?"

"Don't get too excited. I don't think the teacher would approve," Elsie quipped. "Shouldn't we ask her first?"

"She probably isn't going to show up at all," Zerelda assured. "If she was, she would've come much sooner."

The others seemed thrilled by the idea, even though Rachel had a feeling they wouldn't if anyone else offered. They kept badgering her with questions about her parents and the drama school, until Zerelda reminded them they had a rehearsal to finish. Zerelda stood in the background, deciding it would be a better idea to watch. Rachel did as well, eager to direct again. She called out encouragements and instructions to the others, and they were more than willing to listen to her. Elsie was beyond thrilled at being the lead. She couldn't sing nearly as well as Mavis, but she could act decently, even if she was a little smug about being the lead.

"My word! She really is very good," Zerelda muttered to Rachel. "She's so spiteful and catty, we only made her the understudy so she wouldn't throw too much of a fit over not getting the lead. But she's probably better than Mavis."

"Zerelda, stop whispering," Elsie snapped, lining up behind the rest of the actors. "I'm just about to enter the stage."

"You should come in from the other side," Rachel suggested. "You would stand out more, without everyone else trampling you."

Elsie looked surprised as she took the advice. When she entered the stage, she spoke clearer and acted better than before. She didn't snap at the other actors for making a mistake or talking at the same time as her, mostly since there weren't many on the stage anymore.

"She's not nearly as good at acting as you are at directing, though," Zerelda said admiringly. "And you've only just joined us! You really do have a talent." Rachel flushed with pleasure.

Once the rehearsal was almost over, Rachel heard somebody enter the theatre. She turned her head to see Mavis. A few of the other actors saw her as well.

"Mavis!" Zerelda exclaimed. "You're back!"

Mavis smiled, even as the others started yelling at her. Rachel noticed Alison trailing behind, staring around behind the stage in admiration. Rachel walked over to her while the others were busy scolding Mavis.

"Sorry, I know I shouldn't be here," Alison apologized. "But I was too curious. How'd the rehearsal go? I bet you did a great job."

"Oh, I think I did," Rachel assured. "They didn't even have a problem with me directing. Well, it was mostly because of my famous parents. They're eager to learn everything they can about me. But they don't know about… well, you know."

Rachel quickly told Alison about the rehearsal. She trailed off as she heard Elsie raise her voice shrilly, having returned backstage upon hearing the commotion.

"Mavis, I can't believe you! You just run off like that after showing off, just like Zerelda, and now you're back, probably expecting everyone to bend over backwards to greet you!" she scoffed. "They should really have me as the lead instead."

Alison sharply raised her head as if recognizing the voice, her eyes widening in surprise as she caught sight of Elsie. "Elsie?"

Elsie went silent as she turned to Alison, narrowing her eyes. "Oh, Alison, it's just you."

"You know each other?" Rachel asked. Now that she thought about it, she did think she had seen a girl like Elsie at St Clare's.

"Right, I don't think I told you about Elsie Fanshawe. She went to school with me in the second form, before you came," Alison explained. "She's in the fourth form now."

"I was head girl, remember?" Elsie said. "Not that you, or any of the other second formers, ever listened to me."

"I… I didn't know you liked acting," Alison said.

"You don't know a lot of things about me," Elsie snapped. "You're too busy calling me catty Elsie to notice anything."

"Gee, please don't fight," Zerelda pleaded. "Whatever disagreements you had in school, they can wait for after the play."

"Do you really want to be the lead, Elsie?" Alison asked. "You didn't show any interest in drama class in the second form."

"Of course I do. I've changed since then, and I'd love to be in the spotlight." Elsie hesitated, before sighing. "But I can see that Mavis is probably more talented than me. She's right to be so arrogant and insufferable. If I had a voice like hers, I probably would be as well. Go on, Mavis, finish the rehearsal."

"I… I don't think I can," Mavis admitted. "Even if I feel completely better, I'd be too afraid of straining my voice. I was already arrogant enough to sing at the top of my lungs, after I lost it recently."

"But you have to sing!" Zerelda insisted. "You simply can't be in the role if you can't."

"Yes, you can't," Elsie agreed. She didn't look smug or gleeful like before, but only confused. "So what are you going to do?"

Mavis smiled at Elsie. "You know, I'm not that talented of an actress, anyway, only as a singer. There aren't even that many singing parts in the play. That's why I sang so much, to milk the few ones I did have. I'll have plenty of other opportunities to sing."

"What?" Elsie exclaimed. "You mean, you'll give the role to me? But you everyone's been counting on you. Can't you simply cut out the singing parts, if there's so little of them?"

"Possibly, but it'd be a bit late notice, right before the play," Mavis insisted. "Besides, if we did, it'd just make me even less eager to be the lead. It seems like such a waste to have a skilled singer if I'm not going to sing at all." She laughed. "Oh, that sounds dreadfully conceited, doesn't it? But I truly don't mean for it to be."

"It does," Elsie agreed. "But I understand what you mean. But I'm still surprised you'd offer it to me."

"If it's too much for you, I'd understand," Mavis assured. "But they only gave me the role because of my voice, and you were the second choice."

"No, it isn't at all," Elsie assured, smiling. "I'd love to, and I've practiced over and over long enough. I kept hoping you'd be unavailable…" She quickly caught herself. "I mean, that I'd be able to take over, but I didn't think I'd actually be able to. Th… thanks, Mavis." The words were clearly hard for her to get out. Alison stared at Elsie in surprise.

"Don't get too excited yet," Mavis warned. "It isn't guaranteed that you will get the role. First we need to ask—"

Just then, the door suddenly opened and somebody else entered the theatre. The actors quickly fell silent and straightened up. Rachel heard a smooth, charming voice.

"How nice it is to see all of you." Rachel spun around to see a tanned, attractive woman smiling pleasantly at all of them. "I apologize for taking so long to come here. It's such a shame that Cathy is ill, but I'm sure all of you have done a wonderful job…" She suddenly trailed off. Rachel glanced over at Alison who had gone pale, staring in shocked disbelief at the woman.

"Miss Quentin, you won't believe it!" Elsie exclaimed, clearly too excited. "I shall be the lead, not Mavis! She said I could be!"

Rachel stared at the woman in surprise, before glancing at the white-faced Alison. Could this really be the drama teacher Alison had mentioned?

Miss Quentin's smile flickered, though it seemed to be less from Elsie's words and more from seeing Alison. "That's nice, dear."

Elsie's face fell, realizing she barely seemed to hear her. "It's true, that is, as long as you approve," Mavis insisted. "And I really think you ought to. You see, Miss Quentin, I was thinking about it, and I realized…"

Miss Quentin barely seemed to hear her while staring intently at Alison with her piercing black eyes. Alison stared coolly back, a strange expression crossing her face. She didn't look angry or disappointed, just cold and indifferent.

Mavis trailed off, seeming to realize Miss Quentin wasn't listening to a word. "I imagine she's too busy staring at you as well," she whispered to Rachel. "She's probably realized your parents are famous actors. She's our teacher, you see."

But Rachel knew she wasn't the one that was being focused on. Miss Quentin suddenly smiled brightly, seeming to remember to put on the charm. "Alison, dear! How nice it is to see you again. I never would've expected it."

The others stared at Alison in surprise. "It's nice to see you too, Miss Quentin," she said in a polite, but clipped tone.

Elsie spoke up, seeming to remember. "Yes, Alison, why are you here?" she demanded. "I know Rachel Denman was here to help us direct…"

"What?" Miss Quentin asked in surprise, turning her gaze to Rachel.

"Oh, no," Rachel hurriedly explained. Alison looked relieved that the attention was off her, and Rachel decided to help her friend out. "I didn't mean to overstep any boundaries. It's just that I heard that your director was ill, and I figured I could help. Zerelda and Mavis were both fine with it."

"You were?" Miss Quentin smiled at Mavis, but there was something fake and insincere about it. "I do hope you remember that I am the head of the play."

"Of course you are, Miss Quentin," Mavis quickly agreed. "It's just that Rachel is the daughter of Robert and Helen Denman." Rachel had grown tired of hearing those words. "Don't you recognize those names?"

"They do sound familiar," Miss Quentin admitted. "Let me think… oh!" She nodded vigorously, smiling at Rachel. "The famous actors, aren't they? I should know. The De Winter Academy spoke very highly about them."

"They… they did?" Rachel asked meekly.

"I'm going to be teaching there next term, as you all know," Miss Quentin explained. Rachel's heart sank. "It's supposed to be the best drama school in London. That's why I had to leave St Clare's. I do hope you weren't too disappointed, Alison."

Alison winced. "Not at all, Miss Quentin," she said coldly. "I understand very well that you have more promising venues than a mere boarding school." Miss Quentin stared at Alison, clearly surprised by her tone.

"That's a surprise, Alison. I thought you'd be very disappointed," Elsie added. "First your precious Miss Quentin leaves to go to that drama school, and now your friend Rachel is going to do the same thing."

"She is?" Miss Quentin exclaimed, staring at Rachel.

Rachel glared at Elsie, who had the grace to look sheepish, before turning to Miss Quentin. "Yes, it's true," she admitted, deciding there was no point in hiding it. "I will be returning to the De Winter Academy. I went there before, you know, and then my parents sent me to St Clare's."

Miss Quentin smiled, but Rachel could see the disguised annoyance in her dark eyes. "How wonderful, Miss Denman. I'll be very happy to see you there, especially since you're allegedly so skilled at directing that you've done most of my role for me."

"Likewise, Miss Quentin." Rachel nodded politely, though she could see what Alison meant. She was all smiles without any sincerity. She didn't know how she'd react when she learned she wasn't learning to be an actress anymore.

Elsie couldn't handle not being the center of attention much longer. "Miss Quentin, didn't you hear me?" she spoke up. "I said I'm going to be the lead!"

"What?" Miss Quentin laughed. "Don't be silly, dear. You know perfectly well that Mavis is."

"About that…" Mavis began.

Alison let out a sigh of relief as Miss Quentin turned her attention to them. Rachel did the same when a few of the other actors bombared her with questions about the drama school instead.

"Should we slip away while they're distracted?" Rachel whispered, staring at the group of actors surrounding Miss Quentin. "It'll be difficult to find an opportunity any other time. I imagine many of them want to speak with me as well."

"Yes, we should," Alison agreed. "But I feel bad about leaving Mavis and Zerelda."

"I'm sure they'll catch up with us," Rachel insisted, stepping away.

As the two girls headed out of the theatre, they both let out a sigh of relief. "I can't believe it!" Rachel exclaimed. "Fancy your old drama teacher being here!"

"She doesn't seem to have change much," Alison muttered. "You should hear the things she said about me when she thought I wasn't listening. I know she doesn't think anything of me, but she still pretends to. She's just as fake as before."

"And to think she's going to be teaching at the academy next term!" Rachel exclaimed. "I could tell she wasn't happy with me for taking over."

"Don't worry, you probably won't see much of her," Alison assured. "Since you're taking the new course."

"Do you think she'll give Elsie the lead?" Rachel asked. "I wouldn't think so. She was probably the one who chose Mavis and Zerelda. Elsie isn't nearly as pretty as either of them."

"Yes, they were only chosen for their voice and looks," Alison remarked. "She's most shallow."

Rachel glanced at Alison in surprise. "Fancy you talking about her like that!"

Alison laughed. "I never would've before. I used to blow up at anyone who said anything against Miss Quentin."

Mavis and Zerelda quickly caught up with them. "When did you two disappear?" Zerelda demanded.

"You're back!" Rachel exclaimed. "How'd it go? Are you still going to have the lead, Mavis?"

"Yes, actually," Mavis admitted. "I had to fake it a little. I pretended I was a bit sick and had lost my voice. I must be a better actress than I thought, since Miss Quentin believed me. But she wasn't happy about Elsie taking over."

"And I'm still in the play," Zerelda added glumly. "I'll try not to get carried away next time. It's a good thing I have such a small role. Miss Quentin loved having me around, despite how terribly I acted. She couldn't bear it if I resigned."

"That was really decent of you, what you did," Alison remarked, staring admiringly at Mavis. "I'm not sure I would've let Elsie take over."

"She was very grateful," Mavis admitted. "She isn't as catty as before, but I think she's still slightly jealous of me."

"Well, I can't blame her," Alison gushed. "I would be too, if I had a voice like yours. It's a shame I can't hear you sing anymore."

Rachel groaned. "Your cousins are right, Alison. You really do like worshipping others. I'm surprised you never asked for my autograph, but I'm glad you didn't. I'm sure the others were all close to asking before I left, just because they thought I was a famous actress like my parents."

"I thought the same," Alison admitted sheepishly. "I'm ashamed to admit, I probably never would've been friends with you if I didn't think you were."

"Sadie and Fern weren't, were they? And you were friends with them," Rachel reminded.

"Well, no. But they were pretty or charming or glamorous," Alison explained. "Just like Miss Quentin. I didn't even realize their flaws. Maybe my cousins are right, Rachel. I do admire the wrong people."

Rachel smiled at Alison, while Zerelda exchanged a glance with Mavis. Then they both started chuckling.

"What's so funny?" asked Rachel, puzzled.

"Oh, nothing," Zerelda chuckled. "It's just that your friend reminded us of somebody at our school. She tried to make friends with us as well, just because she thought we were talented."

"Yes, that's right," Mavis added. "And it wouldn't be the first time, either. According to the others, she tried to befriend another girl, Daphne, just because she was wealthy and charming. She was most annoyed when we ended up making friends with each other."

"Actually, I think she only liked me because I was so beautiful and exotic compared to the other girls," Zerelda admitted. "And you were most put out that she left you for me, weren't you, Mavis? You so liked how she followed you around, begging to hear you sing."

"I did not!" Mavis protested, giving Zerelda a friendly push. "Anyway, it isn't fair to compare Alison to Gwen. She seems far more decent."

"Yes, Gwen was most unpopular," Zerelda agreed. "She didn't have any special friend, because nobody could stand her. I don't know how either of us ever could. She was lazy, spiteful, spoiled…"

Alison scowled, clearly annoyed. "You remind me of Sadie as well, Zerelda. She was an American girl too, and she only cared about her clothes and appearance. She didn't even remember to write to me."

"Just like you, huh, Alison?" Rachel teased. "I guess birds of a feather flock together." Alison shoved her.

"Zerelda cares about more than that," Mavis protested. "She's a very good sort."

"So was Sadie," Alison admitted. "At least she didn't have a spiteful bone in her body, unlike Fern or Miss Quentin."

"Miss Quentin, spiteful?" Mavis demanded. "She's a bit of a pushover, but…"

Alison smiled at Rachel, not wanting to explain what she had heard. "But you're the best friend I've ever had, Rach. You're kind, bright, and actually talented. I just wish you weren't leaving St Clare's."

Rachel smiled back. "I'm sure you'll make new friends," she assured. "And we could see the play before we leave."

"I'd still love to see it," Alison remarked. "Even if you aren't going to be the lead."

"I probably shouldn't show up at all," Mavis admitted. "Miss Quentin might get suspicious if I'm well enough to be there. Oh, I do feel bad about lying."

"It wasn't really a lie," Zerelda assured. "You really aren't fit to be singing so much. You just stretched the truth a little. And it shows you are a good actress. Better than me, at least. She probably won't notice you if you just stay in the back row. The director doesn't do much during the actual play, anyway."

"And I'm sure I can get my parents to buy tickets for Alison and me," Rachel added. "It was awfully nice meeting you two."

"You two," Mavis agreed. "I do feel dreadful for not being able to sing, though. I know how much your friend admires me."

"Oh, no, it's fine," Alison assured. "Take your time. I wouldn't want you to worry about losing your voice again."

"Even when you do, you can get it back," Zerelda quipped. "I can't ever get my acting skills back, since I never had any."

"At least the others know you can't," Rachel added. "Everyone still expects me to be an amazing actress, because of my parents. I'm sure you'll be much more humble in the play."

They said their goodbyes before leaving. Rachel and Alison both felt pleased by their unusual encounter. Rachel told herself she wouldn't forget once she returned to drama school.

I was just going to have Rachel and Zerelda meet, but then I decided to add their friends Alison and Mavis. I wasn't even planning on Elsie and Miss Quentin, but it just happened. I love connecting the characters. I'm actually kind of surprised Alison never mentioned Miss Quentin to Rachel, since two of her idols are connected to drama. I noticed the characters in Third Form have much more modern names - Libby, Fern, Rachel. I couldn't resist Mavis and Zerelda bringing up Gwen, since she tried to befriend both of them (which wouldn't even be the first time two of her targets befriended each other, with Daphne and Mary-Lou). They both worship people, but Gwen seems to have much better taste than Alison. Alison's idols are empty-headed at best and bitchy at worst (with the exception of Rachel), while Gwen's are usually flawed but decent (Zerelda, Clarissa, even Daphne). I guess it's since Gwen is much worse than Alison, so her friends have to be nicer to balance it out (and vice versa).