The courtyard set was quiet, save for the shuffle of crew members adjusting props and the faint clack of boots across the stone tiles. The painted banners of the royal hall swayed slightly in the artificial breeze, their colors light under the studio lights.

Director Joe stepped forward with a clipboard in hand, his gaze sweeping over the assembled cast. “Alright, everyone,” he began, his voice firm. He didn’t have his usual smile on as he briefed them: “This scene is delicate.”

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