Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Chapter 253 Demands

"Ms. White, your interpretation of this piece is truly exceptional. I award you a perfect score of ten."

"Ms. Ridge, your performance was also remarkable. You receive a nine."

With one receiving a ten and the other a nine, Hattie found herself trailing Violeta by a single point once more. The gap was closing once again

Frustrated, Hattie stood up and addressed the boss, "This isn't fair. With so many people here, why should you be the only judge? Music is subjective; everyone has different tastes. I think everyone here should vote and score."

The boss hesitated. "Well ... "

Hattie signalled to Zelena and the others. Zelena spoke up, "Yes, since both are competing, why not let everyone here participate in the voting? That would be fair."

Gillian added, "I agree. Music can't be judged by one person alone. If you're biased towards Violeta, wouldn't her scores always be higher?"

The store owner waved his hand dismissively. "I don't know either of these students personally. How could I be biased?"

Candy chimed in, "Since that's the case, let everyone here vote and score. That would be the fairest way. Right, everyone?"

"Yes!"

"That sounds good. I support it."

"Agreed."

this, the owner had no choice but to agree to

to participate, we'll change the rules. From the next round, everyone will get

believed the owner

owner turned to Violeta, who had remained silent.

replied, "No, I

the third round,

sheet

'Eight Views

one required not just technical

Centrefield. Even today, the region's poem about these scenes remains well-known. Capturing the essence of these

and

time. You should

I'll take the

Longpeace' illustrated scenes like snowy peaks, windy bridges, a misty cottage, mountains, an ancient ferry, flowing waters,

that evoked such imagery

Violeta possessed the skill, who here

the owner had chosen the piece. He wanted to gauge Violeta's true

a moment, then placed her hands on

had never closely observed Violeta's

fingers-whether plucking, striking or strumming-was precise. The notes emerged from her fingertips, weaving a melody that gradually filled

charm of ancient music, seamlessly intertwined

drawn into the world

painted vivid pictures in