Chapter 1380:

Elyse pondered her own choice as she watched Krista’s confident selection. That piece was a complex melody, rich with emotional depth and requiring masterful control of the violin’s second and fourth positions. But it was incredibly hard to deliver.

Elyse pressed her lips together, pondering her next move. Krista had already set the bar high.

As Krista ascended the stage, confidence radiated from her. She knew the piece inside and out, her performance echoing her deep connection with the music. Her final score soared, a testament to her skill.

When it was Elyse’s moment, the host’s curiosity was palpable. “What’s your choice for today?”

Pausing to gather her thoughts, Elyse responded with quiet confidence, “Henrik Wieniawski’s ‘Légende.’ I hope it touches everyone as it has touched me.”

“Let the music speak,” the host encouraged with a warm smile.

At Elyse’s selection, Celeste perked up in her seat. The piece was notoriously complex, woven with intricate glissandos, piercing vibratos, and challenging harmonics. More than just notes, it was a narrative of love woven into melody.

Taking on such a piece was bold; a single slip could spell disaster.

Celeste watched intently, hands clasped, as if her will could steady Elyse’s bow. She’d like to see how far Elyse could push.

Centering herself, Elyse closed her eyes briefly, summoning the essence of this romantic tale. Her bow touched the strings, and the room filled with music.

Completely absorbed, she played through her soul, oblivious to the world. When the last note faded, she looked out and met the audience’s gaze for the first time. After a brief exchange with the host, the audience was invited to vote.

Their verdict was swift and favorable, their scores high in praise.

The judges, however, were slower to decide, their murmurs filling the air.

The holdup? Celeste. Her decision hung in the balance, as if the weight of the notes themselves were in her hands.

The other judges, having quickly submitted their scores, rolled their eyes at Celeste’s delay. “Come on, Celeste, just put down a number already. You’re being overly strict with her.”

Celeste’s frown deepened. “I prefer to be thorough. Unlike some, I don’t just throw numbers around carelessly.” Another judge, clearly irked by Celeste’s critique, chimed in, “You just can’t stand admitting Elyse’s talent. You even hinted she once won a competition by pulling strings. With her ability, why would she need to?”

Celeste’s retort was cutting. “Oh, please! You’re all blind. Elyse’s top spot? Smells like backdoor influence to me!” Her accusation cut through the murmurs, loud enough to silence the room.

Elyse, maintaining her calm, addressed Celeste directly.

“Accusations require proof, Celeste. If you believe my position is due to undue influence, I’d like to see your evidence.”

Celeste scoffed dismissively. “Proof? The truth doesn’t always need evidence.”

Unruffled, Elyse replied, “Without proof, your claims remain just that—claims without basis.”

Message from Noah: Have a nice day, dear readers! God loves you, and Noah wishes you all the best. (ɔO‿=)ɔ ♥