PAID

With the stage props set, Leon and the others took their places.

In the first scene, just as they had rehearsed, Rosvisser sent Moon away, leaving her alone with the "captive" Leon for a private conversation.

The classic "Tail Lock" and "Handsome Man with Scars" scenes played out, stirring whispers among the school faculty and judges in the audience.

"These young actors are quite skilled; they really bring the scene to life," one commented.

"The lead actress nails the expressions and intonations, especially with that regal, haughty cadence—she genuinely has the aura of a cold, proud princess, even a queen," another noted.

"Could she actually be a queen?" someone mused, half-jokingly.

"And why is no one talking about the male lead's performance? His portrayal of a defeated yet defiant captive was outstanding!"@@novelbin@@

"Yes, his acting is quite remarkable."

"It's so convincing, it almost doesn't feel like acting."

Hearing the faculty praise the model family’s performance, Vice Principal Wilson, seated on the left side of the judges' panel, stroked his white beard in satisfaction.

He leaned toward Headmistress Angelina Ouellette, lowering his voice. "Well, Headmistress, didn’t I say the Melkveys would put on an unforgettable performance?"

Headmistress Ouellette nodded in agreement. "Indeed."

Their impressive performance pleasantly surprised Ouellette. She recalled their first meeting in her office, where Veronica had entrusted her to deliver the Primordial Crystal to Rosvisser as a wedding gift. At that time, the couple had left her with a favorable impression—humble, polite, adept in conversation, and balanced in their approach. They exuded sincerity without being overly trusting, leaving a sense of reservation.

"Shrewd couple," was the label she mentally applied to them back then.

Watching their flawless performance now, Ouellette was convinced they weren’t just shrewd; they were deeply in love and in perfect sync.

She’d often heard Vice Principal Wilson’s praises of their love and harmony, though she hadn’t fully believed it. But after seeing them perform today, she was convinced.