All eyes turned to Amy Sinclair.

Nathan Prescott's face contorted with disbelief. "Amy, are you seriously challenging Victoria? Even the most accomplished violinists wouldn't dare speak to her that way. You've got some nerve!"

Amy's expression remained serene, her voice as light as a spring morning. "Interesting - I've yet to encounter a violinist who could outperform me."

Nathan froze mid-breath before bursting into theatrical laughter, his arms flailing wildly.

"Never been defeated? Ha! Where do you find the audacity to make such claims in front of Victoria? Did you get your confidence from a fairy godmother?"

The room erupted in amusement at the spectacle. Amy's words, rather than sounding arrogant, seemed like the setup to an elaborate joke.

Even the typically stern Margaret Blackwood cracked a smile. Alexander and Liam remained silent. Though young, Liam sensed the tension in the room, feeling uncomfortably exposed.

Alexander frowned deeply. "Amy, enough of this. Go prepare yourself. I'll have Gregory bring you appropriate attire."

Amy refused coolly, "Unnecessary. I've made my choice clear - I want Victoria's dress."

Nathan scoffed, "For heaven's sake, can't you see Alex is trying to help you?"

Victoria interjected with a chuckle, "Very well, Ms. Sinclair, I'll consider your words playful banter."

Amy didn't waver, "I don't joke with strangers."

Nathan snapped, "Amy, don't be so ungrateful!"

Amy countered icily, "If I had extra dignity, I'd donate it. I certainly don't need yours."

Alexander spoke gravely, "Amy, I understand Victoria's talent better than you. End this foolishness."

The judging panel, finalizing competition details, approached with matching frowns.

"What's causing this disturbance?" inquired one judge.

Before anyone could respond, an excited gasp came from the panel. A bespectacled woman in her forties rushed toward Victoria.

"Excuse me, are you Ms. Langley?"

Victoria paused momentarily before responding, "Yes, I'm Victoria. And you are?"

"Ms. Langley, hello! I'm Elizabeth Thornton from the Solmaris Music Society, serving as a judge today."

"I've watched your performances online, and when I saw you here, I couldn't believe my eyes. But it truly is you, Ms. Langley!"

Victoria offered a polite smile, "Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Thornton."

Elizabeth waved her hands hastily, "Oh no, no, before someone of your caliber, I'm hardly qualified to judge."

Remembering suddenly, Elizabeth added, "By the way, our society recently sent you an invitation to our gala concert. Did you receive it?"

Victoria began apologetically, "I'm afraid I've been occupied with my own concert preparations..."

Elizabeth interrupted eagerly, "Completely understandable! An artist of your stature must be inundated - we'd be honored with even an hour of your time. Whenever suits your schedule, naturally!"

Victoria nodded graciously, "Certainly, I'll visit when possible."

Elizabeth requested excitedly, "Ms. Langley, might you spare just another moment?"