Facade

Zyler’s Terranish pronunciation was impeccable, thanks to his plano teacher from Terrania who had guided him since childhood. Confident in his accent, he believed he could surpass Christopher in this aspect 

However, a stir arose during his speech as Tim Smithon, the prominent professor from Cavenridge’s Linguistics Department, appeared in the audience. 

Bumor had it that Tim was scouting for talented students, so the audience couldn’t help but wonder if he was bere for Zyler. 

Zyler was also convinced that Tim was here to watch his performance since he was the last to take the stage. This thought rattled him, causing a momentary lapse in his speech, but he quickly regained his composure and continued. 

When Zyler finished his speech, he was showered with enthusiastic applause. He was confident that he could achieve a score of 99, with only 1 score deducted for his momentary lapse. 

Considering that even Tim Smithon honored him with his presence, Zyler believed he would be crowned the Hunk of the Year. 

“Thank you, Zyler, for the excellent speech. The score he received is..94” the host announced. 

Zyler’s smile froze upon hearing his result, unable to believe he had only scored 92. 

“Zyler’s Terranish was fluent, and his pronunciation was excellent too. However, there’s a minor grammar issue in his speech. 

“Additionally, his performance came across as a bit exaggerated, and he could have maintained better focus. Don’t lose heart! There’s always next time!” the host reassured Zyler, noticing his puzzled expression 

Although Zyter was tempted to mention that Tim’s sudden appearance had thrown him off, he refrained from speaking out, assuming Tim had specifically come to see him since Hera, who was supposed to be the last contestant, was nowhere in sight before Zyler took the stage. 

“Thank you, Zyler. Please remain backstage while we welcome our final contestant, number 20, to the stage,” the host concluded. 

Disheartened by his score, Zyler exited the stage as instructed. Seeing Hera’s continued absence backstage, his mood lifted slightly. Though he hadn’t secured the Hunk title, at least Christopher had discovered Hera’s true nature. 

As the stage remained vacant for a minute, the six judges exchanged glances while the students began to whisper among themselves. 

“Enough waiting! Contestant number 20, Hera Youngworth, has dropped out of the contest. Let’s announce the results already!” a male student exclaimed, sparking a wave of discussion throughout the venue 

“So, she really did drop out!” 

“Hmph! That country bumpkin couldn’t handle the pressure, huh? 

“What a joke! If she was too scared to compete, why did she even bother auditioning?” 

The venue erupted into a chorus of criticism. 

“Gino, did your sister really drop out? Xyla Yonder asked, her hands holding a large bouquet of flowers. She had come to accompany Gino to watch Hera’s speech. 

“Beats me,” Gino replied embarrassedly, standing beside her in puzzlement. 

He couldn’t help but wonder why Hera had suddenly changed her mind again. Text property © Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org.

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• Chapter 140