Chapter 37: Voice of the Heavens
Klan Roland's voice wasn't particularly loud, yet every applicant present heard him clearly.
Through their conversation, everyone learned that this stunningly beautiful actress was, in fact, a newcomer with no prior acting experience.
"So she's the second type of applicant Shuka Berg mentioned, a lucky one scouted by the Nightingale Opera Troupe's talent agents..."
"Indeed, in terms of appearance, even Miss Anna Moonshadow pales in comparison... If I were a talent scout, I'd certainly invite her too."
"But in acting, looks alone aren't enough; without skill, one is merely a decorative vase..."
"You call that a vase? Have you ever seen such a beautiful vase in any troupe?"
"Well... you're right. She's not just a vase; she's a budding rose that leaves people utterly enchanted..."
...
Buzzing discussions filled the room, but due to her high Charisma, most applicants were relatively friendly towards this sudden newcomer, Janna.
Even though she was just a lucky find by a talent scout, instead of feeling jealous, many felt it was only natural.
"Miss, please hand me your application form."
"Alright, thank you."
"You're welcome."
In the face of absolute charm, even Shuka Berg's usual official smile carried a hint of genuine admiration.
However, when he saw the role Janna had applied for, his smile faltered slightly before he placed the form before Klan Roland.
"Oh? You're auditioning for the role of Natasha? That's quite a challenge for a newcomer."
As Klan Roland read the form, his gaze inadvertently shifted to David Berg beside him.
"David, what do you think?"
Upon hearing that Janna intended to audition for the lead role, Natasha, David Berg furrowed his brow.
"This role is indeed quite challenging for a newcomer. Perhaps, I personally suggest starting with a relatively simpler role..."
"Let her audition for this role."
Before David Berg could finish his suggestion, Roman Roland, who had been mostly silent, suddenly interrupted.
"I also think she should give it a try. After all, this must be a choice Miss Janna made after careful consideration."
Sitting nearby, Anna Moonshadow followed Roman Roland's words. However, unlike her friendly smile towards other applicants, her gaze at Janna was full of meaningful scrutiny.
"Since both the troupe leader and Miss Anna agree, I have no objections... David, what about you?"
"I'm fine with it too."
At this moment, unlike the slight disagreement among the four judges, all the applicants present unanimously felt that Janna's choice to audition for the lead role, Natasha, was too ambitious.
...
"In Act A, the role of Natasha, while not as vocally demanding as Nachusa and Charlotte, is by no means easy..."
"Exactly. Not to mention the singing, just the acting part alone, Natasha is the most challenging. Especially the climax where she cuts her hair to join the army; it requires significant acting experience..."
"Indeed, especially since Ollie Berry's performance has set a high standard. If a newcomer messes it up, it could leave a psychological shadow."
Due to their favorable impression of Janna, most people, while not optimistic about her playing Natasha, still held gentle intentions.
After all, everyone started as a newcomer. For someone like Janna, with excellent innate qualities, a gradual approach would be the best way to polish this uncut gem. Overreaching would only harm her.
"Ollie, it seems your competition for the role of Natasha is almost secured."
"Hopefully."
Hearing the empty flattery from those around her, Ollie Berry, who hadn't taken her eyes off Janna since she appeared, felt her previously good mood darken upon learning that Janna was also auditioning for Natasha.
Even though she was confident in her abilities...
When Ollie Berry's gaze met Janna's exquisitely sculpted face, she couldn't help but start to merge the image of Natasha from "Bloodshadow Rose" with Janna in her mind.
They were just... too similar.
Janna's appearance and aura perfectly matched the Natasha she had envisioned.
"Hopefully, this time, there won't be any unexpected surprises..."
...
Seeing that the four judges had reached a consensus, Shuka Berg nodded and turned his attention back to Janna.
"Miss Janna, may I ask which scene you wish to perform?"
"The first encounter with young Loki."
As soon as she spoke, all four judges and the applicants below instinctively shifted their gazes between Janna and Ollie Berry.
"I also hope Mr. Shuka can assist me in this scene."
Seeing Janna's smiling eyes, Shuka Berg nodded almost without hesitation.
"Then I'll trouble you."
After agreeing, Shuka Berg seemed to recall something and glanced back at Troupe Leader Roman Roland.
Seeing no objections, he felt assured and walked over to Janna, preparing to act alongside her.
"Let's begin."
...
"La la~~ la la la~~"
Her voice was like the sound of nature, akin to a sacred melody.
As the first notes flowed from Janna's mouth, Shuka Berg, who was preparing to get into character, seemed to be under a spell. His consciousness momentarily fell into a trance.
[Character's special talent, "Voice of the Heavens," activated.
Effect: A voice like the sound of nature; listeners will fall into a certain degree of enchantment and develop a deeper affection for the speaker.]
"Why do southern-bound sparrows flee the frost? Why can't the battlefield accommodate a mere maiden—"
"Blood boils, yet I dwell in a castle adorned with blooming flowers—"
"With a sword by my side, they say marriage is my only refuge—"
There were no complex vocal techniques, no overly dramatic emotional designs...
Only a voice as melodious as the sound of nature;
And an infinite allure that captivated and enchanted all who listened...