Chapter 165

Merlin stroked his chin slowly and asked, "Have you considered that your path may be less smooth if you're constantly in the spotlight, especially given your current lack of established support?"

Elyse's eyes widened in shock; she understood Merlin's thinly veiled suggestion to withdraw. Fuming inwardly, she wondered why he'd want her to quit. Was it because she lacked powerful connections, and her potential surpassed other contestants?

Clearing her throat, Elyse met Merlin's gaze firmly. "I may lack powerful connections," she replied, "but that doesn't mean I'm weak. I will always fight for myself."

Merlin sighed, saying expressionlessly, "There's nothing wrong with young people working hard to achieve their dreams." He fell silent, looking away.

Uneasy, Elyse frowned, biting her lip as she tried to decipher his thoughts. After a moment, she sensed his unhappiness. But what was the connection to her?

Gritting her teeth, Elyse resolved to become concertmaster, no matter what. She also wanted Cody Tucker to see her skills anew and appreciate her talent. She dreamt of performing her solo on the world's biggest stage, for millions of fans globally.

Suddenly clearing his throat, Merlin, eyes fixed on his teacup, said, "Let's be frank. I want you to withdraw from the selection. In return, name your price, and I'll do my best to fulfill it. In fact, I've arranged for you to be concertmaster for the next tour, provided you don't compete."

Elyse pursed her lips, letting his words sink in. Before each tour, everyone had a chance to earn the concertmaster title. Why, of all tours, was Merlin so focused on this one? Was it just a regular tour, or something more significant? Why would he guarantee her the next tour's concertmaster position to avoid this competition?

When Elyse remained silent, Merlin continued, "Do this for me, and I'll be greatly indebted to you. I'll gladly offer any future assistance you may need in your musical career."

While his influence didn't extend internationally, Merlin, director of the Celestial Sounds Symphony, could propel an artist from obscurity to nationwide fame.

Repeating Merlin's words about being indebted to her, Elyse felt certain this upcoming tour was unique. Considering this, she remained silent.

Not wanting to pressure her, Merlin decided against further urging. The selection was still two days away; she had ample time to consider his offer. The crucial thing was her withdrawal before the selection began. Taking a sip of tea, he dismissed her. "Don't rush your decision. Consider my proposal."

Elyse left the office and headed for the lounge. Feeling dizzy and upset, she accidentally bumped into someone. Covering her aching nose, she apologized profusely. Tears welling, she looked up, then quickly down. She'd bumped into Darren Bill, Merlin's nephew. Avoiding eye contact, she tried to hide her red nose. She intensely disliked him.

Noticing her hostility, Darren asked calmly, "Coming from the director's office, I assume you're upset about something my uncle said?"

Elyse rubbed her nose, retorting irritably, "Why ask what you already know? Tell me, are your supposed talents and achievements genuine, or simply gifts from Merlin?"

Instead of anger, Darren sighed softly. "I knew he'd offended you. Is it about the selection? Did he ask you to withdraw?"

Elyse scoffed. "I'm glad you know you're being unfairly boosted to the top."

Darren shrugged. "I don't need boosting. Please don't accept his offer. I may struggle with nerves and self-doubt, but that only strengthens my resolve to win. But if you withdraw and I win, my victory will feel empty."

Elyse hesitated, unsure whether to believe him.

"Actually, I never intended to accept his ridiculous request. I don't care what he offers. I'll compete, and I'll leave all my competitors, including you, in the dust," Elyse declared firmly, her eyes flashing with determination.

Unlike her previous nervousness, she felt confident. Merlin had inadvertently ignited her competitive spirit. She wouldn't yield, marching towards victory regardless of obstacles.

Seeing the fire in Elyse's eyes, the usually stoic Darren smiled softly. Tilting his head, he asked, "Do you know why my uncle is so fixated on this selection?"

Elyse raised an eyebrow. "No. Perhaps you can tell me."

In the Celestial Sounds Symphony, the concertmaster who impressed the audience and board most would tour. Merlin's intense focus on a domestic tour was unusual. Elyse was genuinely puzzled.

Looking amused, Darren tilted his head. "You're quite in the dark. There's a rumor that Cody Tucker is here to select an apprentice." ... ... ...