The evening of the Grand Showcase had arrived. The university was abuzz with excitement—professors, alumni, and influential figures from various industries gathered to witness the talent of the new generation. For most students, this was an opportunity to shine, to make connections, to prove themselves.

For Vaelis Cara, it was a stage she had already claimed.

As she entered the backstage area, a hush followed in her wake. She was dressed in an exquisite rose pink gown, its delicate embroidery catching the light with every movement. The soft fabric cascaded down her frame, elegant yet undeniably commanding. She was the picture of effortless grace—not a princess waiting to be admired, but a queen stepping into her domain.

Across the room, Serena Vale stood in her own elaborate dress, her hands clutching the hem as she whispered frantically to her friends. But Vaelis barely spared her a glance.

She had bigger things to focus on.

---

The Grand Showcase Begins

The lights dimmed as the first performers took the stage—instrumentalists, dancers, vocalists—all vying for the spotlight.

Backstage, Vaelis waited in silence, her presence unnerving those around her. Some whispered that she had only returned to music recently, that she wasn’t as dedicated as others.

They were about to learn how wrong they were.

When her turn came, she stepped onto the stage with unshaken composure. The moment she stood before the microphone, the murmur of the crowd faded.

Then, she sang.

Her voice, rich and haunting, filled the grand hall—a melody that wove itself into the hearts of everyone present. It wasn’t just technical perfection; it was something deeper. A story woven into every note, a presence that demanded attention.

By the time she finished, the hall was silent, as if the audience had forgotten how to breathe.

And then—the applause.

Thunderous. Unrelenting. A standing ovation.

Vaelis simply inclined her head, then turned and walked offstage as if it had all been effortless.

Because for her, it was.

---

Serena’s Fall

Serena was next.

She walked onto the stage with a forced smile, but something in her posture betrayed her. Whether it was pressure, nerves, or the weight of her own expectations, something was off.

And the moment she began to sing, it became painfully clear—her voice wavered.

The audience shifted uncomfortably. Some glanced at their programs. Others exchanged looks.

Then, a mistake. A note slipped. Then another. Panic flickered in Serena’s eyes.

By the time she finished, the polite applause barely lasted a few seconds.

She had failed.

Serena hurried off the stage, her face pale. As she passed Vaelis, she cast her a look of pure hatred.

Vaelis met it with nothing but quiet amusement.

Serena had spent years basking in the role of the perfect, beloved female lead.

And now, in one night, she had lost everything.

The Charity Gala – A Different Game Begins

The Showcase was only the beginning.

Later that evening, the Charity Gala was held at an exclusive venue—an event where wealthy benefactors and high-profile figures gathered. It was meant to be a celebration, but in truth, it was a battleground of influence.

Vaelis arrived in her rose pink gown, effortlessly outshining even the daughters of prestigious families.

She moved through the room like she belonged there. Because she did.

Whispers followed her:

"That’s Vaelis Cara?" "She’s even more beautiful in person." "Did you hear her performance? Unreal."

She accepted compliments with the faintest smile, her eyes always watching, calculating.