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."

through the room. Seeing this, the owner

the next round, everyone will get a vote, and the participant with the most votes will get

believed the owner

turned to Violeta, who had remained silent. "Ms. White, do

replied, "No,

the third round,

up the sheet music

'Eight Views

this one required not

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

the piece's difficulty, and her enthusiasm waned.

last time. You

take the

Longpeace' illustrated scenes like snowy peaks, windy bridges, a misty

a piece that evoked such imagery

skill, who here would recognize it? Hattie remained

owner had chosen the piece.

paused for a moment, then placed her hands on

who had never closely observed Violeta's playing, now watched

plucking, striking or strumming-was precise. The notes

steeped in the distinct charm of ancient music, seamlessly intertwined each segment with a

found herself drawn into the world Violeta's

painted vivid pictures in