Chapter: 1221

Sean glanced down and sent a message to T, requesting the stage surveillance footage.

Nora's performance naturally drew attention, prompting whispers in the audience.

After all, Nora had delivered a stable and stellar performance in the last competition, a stark contrast to now.

Amy sensed something was wrong too. Nora, alone at the piano, played each note with visible strain.

Her anxiety mounted as she watched Nora press on. What was happening to her?

Seated beside the piano, Nora's hands danced across the keys, leaving them stained with bright red blood.

Her fingertips bore many wounds, each press leaving a new red mark.

The pain shooting through her fingers was intense. Nora gritted her teeth, pushing through the melody.

By the end, her fingers felt numb, disconnected from her body. She played by sheer muscle memory.

Where once playing had been a solace, now it felt like self-torture.

Clearly visible among the white keys were sharp silver blades, bloodstained and scattered.

When the final note faded, Nora slumped over the keys, feeling a surge of pain through her palms.

Thirty minutes stretched on. To those unfamiliar with piano, it seemed a success.

But to those versed in music, Nora's struggle was apparent.

Post-performance, Nora sat on stage for a moment before rising to bow to judges and audience alike.

Her exit from the stage seemed heavier than her confident entrance.

Sean's eyes, dark and simmering, held a storm of anger.

“Let's get backstage."

Having just reviewed the surveillance footage, his face darkened like an impending storm, suffocating those around him.

Susanna and Joanna exchanged knowing looks. Something had gone wrong with Nora.

Phillip and Duncan shared a glance and hurried to follow.

“Nora.”

Amy had been waiting impatiently backstage for Nora to finish her performance. As soon as Nora stepped down from the stage, Amy rushed to her side.

"Just now on the stage..."