Act 1 (The scene opens with Lucy, dressed in a stunning red gown, standing by the ballroom entrance. She looks around nervously.) Lucy: (whispering to herself) I have to be careful. I've received strange threats from an unknown sender. They're going to reveal my secret tonight. (Ryder, dressed in a dashing black mask, approaches Lucy.) Ryder: (smiling) Good evening, my dear. You look breathtakingly lovely. Lucy: (nervously) Ah, thank you... sir. But I'm not sure I know your name. Ryder: (winking) That's the beauty of the masquerade, isn't it? The mystery? (They dance together as the music plays. Show them for about 3 or more seconds dancing. Meanwhile, Lady Elizabeth watches from across the room with an air of suspicion.) Lady Elizabeth: (to herself, nosy) Who is this man? And what is his connection to Lucy? (Mrs. Whistle enters the ballroom, her eyes darting around the room.) Mrs. Whistle: (excitedly) Oh dear! The detective is here! Detective Jenkins! (Detective Jenkins, a stylish woman in a fitted suit and a sharp jawline, enters, scanning the room.) Detective Jenkins: Good evening, Lady Elizabeth. I've been investigating some strange occurrences in this mansion. Rumors of theft and blackmail. Lady Elizabeth: (smug) Ah, just small-time nonsense. Pay no mind. Detective Jenkins: (skeptical) Small-time nonsense? I think not. I've received reports of a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows. (The lights flicker ominously as Ryder disappears into the crowd.) **Act 2:** (As the night wears on, Lucy becomes increasingly agitated.) Lucy: (whispering to Ryder, nervous) I don't know what's going to happen, but I have a bad feeling about this. Ryder: (reassuringly) Don't worry, dear. You’re safe. Lucy: (to Ryder, Urgent) I must leave. This isn't safe. Ryder: (serious) No, my dear. You can't go alone. Not now. I’ll go with you. Lucy(Grateful): Thank you, kind sir. May I know your name now? Ryder: It’s Ryder. Lucy: And I’m Lucy. (Ryder and Lucy leave into a separate room. They are walking to the exit when suddenly, a Masked Figure appears behind Lucy.) Masked Figure: (menacingly) Ah-ah... Lucy... you shouldn't have come here tonight. Lucy: (terrified) Who are you?! (They take off their mask, but we can’t see him) Masked Figure: (evil) I am your worst nightmare. (The scene ends and Lucy is whisked away by the Masked Figure.)
