Untucked, but Not Unfucked

Mirage barely has time to get acquainted with the other contestants before she has to rush off to prepare for the Talent Show. Not only is she pressed for time, but the excitement from meeting RuPaul hasn’t faded either. Is this really happening to her? Is she actually about to perform in such a huge project? But then again — why not? The contestants start putting on makeup and continue chatting. Mirage studies each of them, joining the conversation here and there. All the girls are pretty interesting, and they have plenty of common topics, but Mirage realizes there’s not really anyone to share a drink with. Maybe Dawn — there’s something about her that hints at a fondness for the green serpent. But she looks like she’s fifteen, and getting someone that young tipsy feels… off. Besides, Mirage finds her paying more and more attention to Amanda, who honestly evokes mixed feelings. Perhaps later, when the second half of the cast arrives, she’ll find good company to share the coveted wine. For now, she needs to focus on the challenge. Naturally, for her talent, Mirage decides to perform her signature dance, complete with the mandatory clicks of her high heels. And of course, it doesn’t fail to earn positive feedback. Almost a win — at least a top spot. But there’s no one to celebrate with… The next day greets her with awful weather and unbearable heat in the room. There’s absolutely nothing to do. Mirage is taking it easy today, and the second half of the contestants arrive and start filming. If she had managed to build a closer connection with any of the girls yesterday, she wouldn’t be bored now. The rules sheet seems to mention moving around the hotel and locked doors. But is that really a big problem? She could try — what’s the worst that could happen? And who knows, maybe she’ll run into a cute assistant. Mirage, without thinking twice, approaches the door and spots the key card. Well, well — so it is possible to fool the system? Grabbing the card, she pulls the door open and steps into the corridor. Now, who’s winning? Cameras line the hallway, but Mirage isn’t an easily intimidated girl, so it’s time to explore the building. She still needs an excuse, though. Why not play the clueless fool? Wait, this isn’t my room? And here I was wondering — where’s the kitchen? But no excuse is needed — there’s no one in the corridors. Not even the cute guy, unfortunately. Yet, strangely, Mirage’s gaze lands on a short figure in yellow, trying to get into a room. “Hi!” Mirage calls cheerfully, making the stranger jump and turn around. “Uh, hi,” comes the reply, and she realizes it’s one of her competitors she hasn’t met yet. “Well, at least someone alive!” Mirage smiles broadly. “I was beginning to think I was all alone in this hotel. I’m Mirage, by the way.” The stranger nods and introduces herself, “Nymphia. Nice to meet you.” “And I’m so glad!” Mirage can’t help but hug her. “Everyone else is hiding in corners like little mice, as if it’s the most fascinating thing ever. And what are you doing here?” Nymphia smirks. “Some kind of emergency happened, all the assistants got called to the scene, and they decided to send me alone. Slackers,” she adds, giggling. Finally, the card works, and Nymphia steps into the room, gesturing for Mirage to join her. She looks around the room gloomily and says, “Yeah… not much to it. And it’s unbearably hot.” Mirage nods and catches sight of Nymphia’s suitcase. “Is this all your stuff in one room???” she blurts out, unable to hide her surprise. “Yep. I’m used to having everything I might ever need with me. And I still have a ton of costumes back at the studio. I barely fit within the item limit,” Nymphia explains. And what’s so essential in that suitcase? Could it be alcohol too? And the guy let her bring it as well? Is he really that accommodating with everyone? “Don’t worry,” Nymphia notices Mirage’s puzzled expression. “If you need something, just ask — maybe I have it.” “I definitely will,” Mirage says gratefully, then asks with interest, “How are the girls in your group? Anyone special?” Nymphia chuckles thoughtfully. “Today had some pretty entertaining acts. The win went to a very interesting girl — Plane Jane. She’s worth keeping an eye on.” And she looks away a little mysteriously. “A worthy competitor?” Mirage’s eyes light up. “Definitely,” Nymphia confirms. “And not at all ordinary. I think we’re in for a lot of interesting things. By the way, she doesn’t mind coming here,” and she quickly adds, “I think. So you can judge for yourself how ambitious she is.” “I will absolutely take that opportunity. Can you tell me how the first day went?” The rest of the evening passes in relaxed conversation, with each girl sharing details of her day and her own thoughts. Mirage can’t get over how glad she is to have found a friend who doesn’t carry a sense of life-or-death rivalry. Now the bottle of wine finally has a purpose. All that’s left is to wait for the meeting with Plane, which Nymphia insists on.