Scenario Challenge: Jewel Thief!
— February / March 2026—
Your character has landed in the middle of a disastrous situation.
How will they get themselves out?
Step 1: Read the opening scenario below.
Step 2: Finish the story however you wish. (Your word count: 500-800 words.)
Step 3: Send us your story via the form below!
Once entries have closed, we’ll select some top favourite stories to feature here on the website. Open to young writers aged 9-18.
Entries Close: March 14th
Jewel Thief!
“Thief!”
The Queen’s cry echoes across the vast Throne Room. Her bejewelled finger trembles in rage as it points at… you.
“This one stole my missing jewels!”
Nobles and courtiers gasp, turning to you with horrified eyes. Two burly guards grab you by the arms and drag you forward, in view of all.
The Queen narrows her eyes, her voice as cold as frost. “Bring forth the evidence.”
The royal advisor steps forward, giving you a thin smile. In his hands he holds a small wooden chest.
Your small wooden chest.
“This was found in the chambers of the accused,” his nasal voice sneers.
The Queen snaps her fingers. “Reveal the contents.”
The royal advisor barely holds back a smirk as he opens the lid. Giant rubies, sparkling diamonds, and sapphire necklaces glisten from within…
Definitely not your jewels.
The courtiers gasp again at the evidence, and the Queen turns pitiless eyes back on you.
“There is only one penalty for any who would dare to steal from me.” She nods to the guards and they shove you forward, slamming your knees into the hard stone floor.
The Queen gazes around the room, then raises her voice for all to hear:
“Death. Immediate and without trial.”
Her words hang in the air like a hovering axe, and the crowd inhales a collective breath.
“Please, I can explain!” you cry.
“Silence!” she bellows. “No words will be heard from the accused. Send for the executioner.”
You gasp. Surely not.
“But, your Majesty!” A small voice pipes up from the crowd. “Mightn’t you show mercy?” Everyone turns to stare at a young girl, who blushes, twisting her skirts in her hands.
“Mercy,” several people echo from the crowd, and a flickering candle flame of hope sputters to life in your chest.
The Queen surveys the gathering, flushing slightly at the growing murmurs of agreement.
“Very well,” she says at last. She turns to you with eyes like slits, somehow even colder than before. “You may plead your case. Choose your next words carefully, and perhaps, by some miracle, you may convince me to spare your life.”
To Be Continued…
YOUR TURN —
Finish the Story However You Choose!
NOTE: This opening has been written in 2nd person point of view (you/your), to keep the main character a blank slate for you. You may choose to continue it in 1st (I/me) or 3rd (she/him), or whichever point of view you prefer.
Your word count needs to be between 500-800 words.
Send Us Your Story!
Once your story is complete, submit it via this form. If this is your first time joining us, your email address will be added to our mailing list (which we use to notify you of upcoming contests and giveaways). You can easily unsubscribe at any time.
“You have nice manners for a thief and a liar.”
– Smaug, Chiefest and Greatest of Calamities.
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The Storylights
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