Chapter 854 Competition Started
As soon as Hera and her friends stepped inside, curious eyes followed their every move. Whispers spread through the crowd as people speculated about who she was and what role she played in the prestigious event. Unfazed by the attention, Hera remained composed, gracefully making her way backstage where the event organizers were gathered to check in and confirm her attendance.
Most of the contestants had already arrived and were busy reviewing the event sequence—carefully noting when they would be called onstage to present their designs. Compared to the competitions held in Hera’s home country, this one was far more elaborate. It wasn’t just a local showcase; it was being broadcast live on an international television network and streamed globally. Every detail had to be flawless, every moment timed to perfection.
Not far from where she stood, Alice caught sight of Hera—but Liz, Minerva, and Athena were nowhere in sight. The three had already made their way to the audience seats, leaving Hera to review the event sequence alone with the staff and organizers. Still, she wasn’t truly alone; the atmosphere around her buzzed with quiet excitement.
The staff had only just discovered Hera’s true identity—that she was none other than the elusive Andarta Aria. Until now, the name had been shrouded in mystery, widely believed to belong to a middle-aged woman.
If the world learned that the genius behind the name was actually a young, strikingly beautiful woman, the reaction would be explosive. Her unexpected identity, combined with her undeniable talent, was enough to skyrocket her to the top of the industry’s radar.
It was a walking marketing miracle—no campaigns necessary. Whoever managed to recruit her would instantly become the talk of the design world and dominate social media for the rest of the year.
But when Alice saw Hera surrounded by eager staff, it felt as if her entire body had been plunged into the depths of an icy lake. In that moment, all doubt vanished—Hera was Andarta Aria. Even without hearing a single word of their conversation, the sight of Hera alone backstage, without Liz, yet encircled by organizers and staff, confirmed Alice’s growing suspicion.
And it infuriated her.
A storm brewed in Alice’s chest as she watched Hera bask in effortless attention. Why did she have it so easy? A powerful backer, stunning looks, and now undeniable talent—it was all too much.