Chapter 207: Aren't You Afraid of Losing Face?

"Maggie, you're here," greeted Danielle Joyton, a teacher from the First Institute. She was a woman in her thirties, with a vibe that suggested an artistic background.

"Hi, Ms. Joyton," Maggie replied, nodding at her and the other school representatives.

Sierra glared at Maggie and scoffed. "I can't understand why the school let anyone join this competition. Does it only care about appearances? Someone's going to be embarrassed!"

The remark was blunt and impolite. Knowing Maggie and Sierra's history, the others were surprised by the tension.

Maggie remained calm. Glancing at Sierra, she said gently, "Thanks for the compliment on my looks. Let's hope the judges and audience are kind to my 'face.'" Sierra chuckled scornfully, but Danielle interrupted.

"Okay, that's enough. We're all from the same school. Maya, James, go get your makeup done. Your outfits have been sent over."

Danielle led several people backstage, settling them into their places. Except for Sierra and Maya Harper, who had their own makeup artists, the others, including Maggie, used the school's stylists.

"Don't worry, there's plenty of time. The opening speech is about half an hour, then we'll start the group matches."

Maya and James followed Danielle's instructions while getting their makeup done. Maggie and the others listened and noted key information.

Thirty top universities were competing nationwide, each with six representatives. Maggie's School of Design had only secured one spot. Students were assigned numbers; a computer randomly grouped them for the matches. Each group had six people (thirty groups total), potentially including students from the same or different schools. Each group played the same piece; three advanced, and three were eliminated.

The first round lasted three days due to the number of participating schools, even though the pieces were short. Only Maya and James from the First Institute were performing today, so Maggie and the others weren't rushed. They used the time to familiarize themselves with the setup. They knew they might face each other in later rounds.

"Maggie, there's another makeup artist. You should get a quick touch-up. Remember, it's about impressing the judges and the audience. Every appearance counts," Danielle instructed before realizing she'd called the wrong person. Maggie was practically the school's poster child—known for her excellent grades and skills, and often featured in enrollment videos. Danielle didn't worry about Maggie's appearance.

Among the others were Jack Baker, a bit short but handsome; Sierra, a wealthy young woman with a pleasant appearance; and Grace Scott, a graceful and elegant student from the School of Arts.

Danielle reviewed everyone's appearance. Maya was less striking due to being overweight and having acne. James was tall, handsome, and cheerful.

While Danielle pondered, Maggie and Grace started their makeup. Jack, as a male, went last. Sierra had her own makeup artist, stylist, cameraman, and two assistants.

Seated beside Maggie, Grace noticed Sierra's cameraman and whispered, "Is she okay? Why's she filming backstage?"

Maggie grinned. "She's thinking ahead. After winning, this footage will be valuable. With a large fanbase, people will pay a lot for it." Grace nodded slowly.

"Want some photos for memories? My photography isn't great, but I can manage a few decent shots," Maggie offered.

"No, thanks. You can take some when I'm on stage," Grace blushed slightly. "Professional photographers will be there then, and their photos will be much better."

Their hair and makeup were soon finished. Since they'd be wearing uniforms in the audience, their makeup was light and natural. Maggie's chestnut hair framed her face perfectly, enhancing her innocent yet aloof beauty. Grace's hair was neatly styled, showing off her elegant neck and collarbones. Jack's makeup took about ten minutes.

Danielle announced, "You know where to sit, right? Students from our school are in the front row. We've reserved seats." Aquapolis, the venue, was full of First Institute students. As the home team, Aquapolis leaders hoped for a high ranking. The First Institute had high expectations.

Passing Sierra's spot, they saw she was still getting her makeup done, surrounded by fancy products.

Maggie raised an eyebrow. If she doesn't win first place, won't all this be embarrassing?

Seeming to sense Maggie's gaze, Sierra said, "Get ready. Don't make our school look bad, and impact my popularity." Maggie was speechless.