I am the Entertainment Tycoon

As the audience settled back into their seats after the electrifying performance by Niji, the energy in the hall remained high. Their medley of hit songs had captivated everyone, and even now, people were still talking about it, the catchy melodies and intricate choreography echoing in the minds of the audience. It was the perfect lead-in to the next major event of the night—the presentation of the first award from the Pop genre: Best Pop Song.

The lights in ArtReam Hall dimmed slightly, signaling that the next award presentation was about to begin. The massive screen behind the stage shifted from images of Niji's performance to a sleek design that read "Best Pop Song." There was a quiet murmur of anticipation as everyone waited to see who would take home one of the most coveted awards of the night.

A few seconds later, a spotlight appeared at the side of the stage, revealing a familiar face to the audience—Mako Yan, one of the most famous TV hosts in Sakura Abode Country. Known for his charismatic presence and sharp wit, Mako had been a fixture on Sakurean television for years. He was beloved not only for his work on screen but also for his infectious personality, making him a natural choice to present this award.

As Mako walked to the center of the stage, the audience erupted into applause, welcoming him with enthusiasm. Dressed in a sharp black suit with a tie that had a subtle shimmer of sapphire blue, a nod to the awards, he waved at the crowd and then flashed his signature smile.

"Good evening, everyone!" Mako began, his voice ringing out confidently. "How about that performance from Niji, huh? Those ladies really know how to light up a stage!"

The crowd responded with another round of applause, clearly still riding the high from Niji's electrifying set. Mako chuckled as he continued, "If I could dance even half as well as they do, I might have been a pop star instead of a TV host!"

Laughter rippled through the room, Mako's lighthearted tone putting everyone at ease. But soon, his expression shifted to a more serious one, signaling that the time for fun was over, and it was time to get down to business.

"Tonight," Mako said, his tone deepening slightly, "I have the honor of presenting the award for Best Pop Song. Now, I don't have to tell any of you that pop music is one of the most beloved genres in the world. These songs make us dance, make us cry, and, most importantly, they stick with us. Whether they're blasting in your car or playing at a concert, they're the songs that define our moments."

The audience nodded in agreement. Pop music, with its universal appeal and catchy hooks, had always been a defining genre at the Sapphire Melody Awards.

"This year, the competition is especially fierce," Mako continued. "We have eight incredible nominees who have brought us some of the most unforgettable songs of the year. No matter where these artists are from, their songs have touched listeners all around the world."

The screen behind Mako flickered to life, displaying the names and faces of the eight nominees. As Mako read each name, a short clip of the nominee's song played, allowing the audience to hear the magic that had earned them a spot in this prestigious category.

"The first nominee," Mako announced, "is Haruka, for her song 'One Last Time.'"

A clip of Haruka's powerful ballad filled the hall, her soulful voice paired with an emotionally charged melody. Haruka, one of Sakura Abode's top solo pop stars, was known for her ability to connect deeply with her audience through heartfelt lyrics and captivating vocal delivery.

"The second nominee is the pop group Starbright for their song 'Endless Summer.'"

The audience cheered as the clip played, showing the energetic, feel-good vibe of Starbright's hit song. The upbeat tempo and infectious chorus had made it one of the anthems of the year, especially popular during festival season.

"Our third nominee is Kai with 'Shadows in the Light.'"

Kai, another solo artist from Sakura Abode Country, had made waves with his darker, more experimental pop sound. The clip played a haunting melody paired with Kai's distinct, edgy voice, showcasing his unique take on the genre.

Mako continued, moving to the next nominee. "The fourth nominee is the pop group Dream Knights, for their song 'Galaxy Love.'"

The hall buzzed with excitement as the camera cut to the seven-member group performing their futuristic-themed love song, which had been a fan favorite for months. Dream Knights were known for their high-energy performances and intricate choreography, much like Niji, making them one of the most popular pop groups in Sakura Abode.

"And the fifth nominee," Mako said, pausing slightly, "is Aiko Saito, for 'Midnight Skies.'"

A clip of Aiko's song played next, a sultry and smooth pop track that had dominated the charts earlier in the year. Aiko's voice, with its seductive tone, had captured the hearts of listeners across the globe, making her one of the strongest contenders in this category.

With the Sakurean nominees finished, Mako shifted to the international stars. "Now, for our international nominees. First up, from Eagle Country, we have Tracy Jones, for her song 'Fire and Ice.'"

The hall filled with the sound of Tracy Jones's powerful, anthemic track, a song that had been a global hit. The catchy chorus, paired with Chris's signature raspy voice, had made it a staple on radio stations worldwide.

"Our second international nominee, also from Eagle Country, is Lily Ross, with 'Breaking Free.'"

A clip of Lily's upbeat, empowering anthem played, her bright voice soaring over a driving pop beat. Lily Ross had risen to stardom quickly with her infectious hooks and relatable lyrics, earning her a spot among the top names in pop music.

"And finally," Mako announced, "our last nominee is the pop group Viper from K-Country, with their song 'Eclipse.'"

The audience cheered as the clip played, showing Viper's fierce choreography and edgy pop sound. Known for their bold image and high-octane performances, Viper had captured the attention of fans all over the world, making them a major player in the global pop scene.

As the final clip faded, Mako turned back to the audience. "There you have it—eight amazing nominees. Each of these songs has left a lasting impact, and it's going to be tough to choose just one. But… I suppose that's my job tonight!"

He smiled, the audience chuckling at his lighthearted comment. Slowly, with great anticipation, Mako opened the envelope in his hand. The room fell silent, every eye on him as he prepared to announce the winner.

"And the award for Best Pop Song goes to…" Mako paused dramatically, heightening the suspense, "Lily Ross, for 'Breaking Free!'"

There was a moment of stunned silence before the crowd erupted into applause. Lily Ross, seated among her team from Eagle Country, looked utterly shocked. Her hands flew to her mouth as her eyes widened in disbelief. Her team cheered around her, clapping her on the back and hugging her as she stood, still processing the fact that she had just won one of the most prestigious awards of the night.

This was a surprising result as no one imagined that she would manage to win against so many amazing pop artists.

The camera followed her as she made her way to the stage, her emotions clear on her face. She had always been a rising star, but this victory solidified her place among the global pop elite.

As she reached the microphone, she took a deep breath, clearly trying to steady herself. "Wow… I really didn't expect this," Lily said, her voice shaking slightly. "I—I'm just so honored to be here, let alone to win this award. Thank you so much to the Sakurean Music Society and to everyone who voted for me."

She paused for a moment, looking down at the sapphire award in her hands, the lights reflecting off its crystalline surface. "This song, 'Breaking Free,' means so much to me. It's about finding your voice and your strength, and I just hope it inspires people the way it's inspired me."

Lily's voice wavered with emotion as she continued, "I want to thank my team, my family, my fans—everyone who believed in me when I didn't always believe in myself. This award is for all of you."

The crowd applauded again, many on their feet in a standing ovation as Lily bowed her head in gratitude. With one final wave, she turned and left the stage, still clearly overwhelmed by the win.

As she disappeared backstage, the lights in ArtReam Hall dimmed slightly, signaling that the night was far from over. But the buzz from Lily's surprising victory lingered in the air, a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement that made the Sapphire Melody Awards so captivating.