Chapter: 781

Madeline fixed Norah with a determined gaze. “I refuse to accept your slander. The design is mine. Just because you're Noelle, we all have to believe it's yours? I'm merely an obscure designer, should I be overshadowed by a renowned designer? Why should that be?"

Her strong rebuttal caused a moment of hesitation among the attendees in the exhibition hall.

It was true that Noelle accused Madeline of plagiarism, and Madeline was a relatively unknown designer. Many were inclined to trust Noelle's accusation; however, was it truly a case of plagiarism or simply slander?

“I joined the Grace Cup out of my passion for design, not anticipating accusations of plagiarism from a judge! I won't accept this result!"

Madeline faltered, displaying a fragile and vulnerable demeanor; her eyes reddened with anger as she directed her gaze at the judges "panel. Her appearance resonated with many audience members, prompting them to advocate for her cause.

"Noelle rushed to accuse her of plagiarism without valid evidence.

Isn't this simply defamation? Is this the conduct expected of a reputable designer?”

“Exactly. She's defaming Madeline simply because she lacks a prominent reputation or influence. If this is the case, it's truly intolerable."

"I'm with Madeline on this! Noelle, if you're accusing her of plagiarism, provide us with evidence!"

Madeline skillfully utilized her advantage, garnering support from the public. Many Grace Cup contestants were aspiring young designers eager to establish their reputation. In this scenario, they instinctively voiced their support for Madeline.

Taking advantage of the elevated platform, Norah stood up and looked down at the contestants and audience, emphasizing her authority.

"You demand evidence? Very well, I shall provide it.”

Stepping onto the platform, she pointed at the model's attire, elaborating, "This design originated from my concept... and this one...

While flawed, it was my design, and your contributions merely completed it, albeit with remaining flaws."

She folded her arms, sneering contemptuously.

The other judges were compelled to interject.

"Actually, Madeline's work is quite commendable."

Under the chilling stare of Norah, the speaker's voice gradually dwindled until it was scarcely audible.

If the creator deemed it flawed, then it indeed was flawed.

"Allow me to inquire once more, what were the underlying concepts behind your design? What were your initial ideas? Madeline, are you aware?"

Under Norah's barrage of aggressive questions, Madeline nervously bit her lip, finding herself at a loss for words. After all, how could she be expected to provide explanations for her plagiarized design?

Her contemplation of the design concepts had only occurred shortly before the competition began.

"I'll elucidate. The design concepts were... My original idea was..."

Norah shattered what little confidence Madeline had left, asserting, “Why am I so certain? Because this is my creation. Even if tasked to recreate it now, I'm capable of doing so.”