With PAREO's signal, the competition commenced, and the room was filled with the rhythmic sound of keyboards and mouse clicks as CHU² and I immersed ourselves in our music-making.
As we worked, the judges observed the silent battle unfolding before them, their expressions shifting between curiosity and admiration.
CHU²'s intense focus didn't go unnoticed. "She's really giving it her all," LAYER remarked, her hand resting on her chin.
"But that Nakasone kid... He's surprisingly dedicated too," MASKING added with a grin. "Maybe there's more to him than meets the eye."
"LOCK chimed in with a revelation. 'Actually, he's the part-timer over at CirCLE Livehouse. It's possible but I think he has music experience."
The revelation seemed to surprise the judges. "Oh, I had no idea," LAYER was surprised.
"Same here," MASKING agreed. "But is he really as skilled as CHU²?"
"Don't judge a book by its cover," LAYER cautioned, offering a wise perspective."
Switching to Kyo and CHU²'s side.
As the clock ticked away, I found myself growing increasingly fatigued. The intensity of the competition, coupled with the relentless focus required for music production, was beginning to take its toll on me.
I won't back down too. Dang it, I feel sleepy all of a sudden. Besides, CHU² is really trying hard, huh? She's focused to the core.
Despite my best efforts to maintain my concentration, exhaustion crept in, weighing down my eyelids and slowing my movements. Each keystroke felt heavier, each chord harder to grasp as the minutes stretched on.
And then one hour later.
As PAREO's whistle pierced the air, signaling the end of our intense music production session, I reluctantly removed my hands from the keyboard. The sensation of my fingers tingling lingered, a testament to the fervor with which I had composed.
Beside me, CHU² also withdrew from her laptop, her expression a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. It was clear that she, too, had poured her heart and soul into her composition.
With bated breath, we awaited the judgment of the judges, the tension in the room palpable.
"Remember the rules, everyone!" PAREO reminded us, her voice carrying a hint of excitement. She went on to recap the guidelines of the competition, emphasizing the importance of creativity, technical skill, and adherence to the theme.
"Now, let's see what CHU²-sama has created in just one hour!" PAREO announced eagerly, gesturing for CHU² to present her composition.
CHU² wasted no time in retrieving her laptop and placing it before the judges. With a confident smile, she began to play her music, filling the room with the captivating melodies she had crafted within the allotted time.
As CHU²'s music filled the room, LAYER listened intently, her expression thoughtful. When the melody faded into silence, she offered her assessment.
"Hmm, not bad," LAYER remarked, her tone carrying a hint of surprise. She turned her gaze towards CHU², clearly impressed by the composition she had produced in just one hour.
"Haha! Of course! CHU²-sama's skills are unmatched!" PAREO chimed in, her voice filled with admiration.
But before anyone else could speak, CHU² interjected with a confident smirk. "It's easy! I could've made two songs in just an hour!"
LOCK, however, had a different perspective. "While it's undoubtedly impressive, I can't help but feel that it lacked a certain depth. It felt great but there's missing as if there was more potential left untapped."
MASKING nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I agree with LOCK. It's great, but it's missing that special something that takes it from good to exceptional. but again, not bad."
CHU²'s smirk faltered slightly at the critique, but she quickly composed herself, her confidence undeterred. "Well, let's see what Nakasone Kyo has to offer, then we'll see who truly reigns supreme!"
With that, the judges turned their attention to me, awaiting my composition with keen interest.
As the judges waited in anticipation, I took a deep breath to steady my nerves. With trembling hands, I placed the laptop in front of them and initiated the playback of my composition.
Uwah... This is nerve-wracking! How do I do this... Argh! Why did I accept this duel in the first place! It's embarrassing! I only wanted to create musics because of my imaginations!!!
The room filled with the sound of my music, each note carrying the essence of my creativity and passion. As the melody unfolded, I could feel the weight of the judges' scrutiny, their eyes fixed on me as they listened intently.
When the last note faded away, there was a moment of silence as the judges processed what they had just heard. Then, LAYER was the first to speak.
"Wow," she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with genuine admiration. "That was truly something special. The way you captured the theme and infused it with emotion was remarkable."
MASKING nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I have to admit, that was pretty impressive. Your composition had depth and complexity, it felt like every note had a purpose."
LOCK chimed in, her expression thoughtful. "I agree. Your music had a certain quality to it that resonated with me. It was like each melody told a story, drawing the listener in and keeping them captivated until the very end."
As the judges continued to praise my composition, a sense of pride swelled within me. Despite my initial doubts, I had managed to create something truly extraordinary, something that resonated with those who listened to it.
CHU²'s confident facade faltered slightly as she listened to the judges' remarks, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her features.
I felt a bead of sweat form on my forehead as I hesitated, unsure of how to respond. Before I could formulate a reply, CHU² interjected, her voice sharp with impatience.
"Enough of that! Let's get to the point, judges. Who will be declared the winner of this battle?"
The air crackled with anticipation as the judges exchanged meaningful glances, deliberating over their decision. And then, finally, LAYER spoke up, her voice firm and decisive.
"After careful consideration, we have reached a unanimous decision," she declared, her gaze locking with mine. "The winner of this battle is..."
"Tied."
"T-Tied?" I stammered, struggling to comprehend the unexpected outcome, my mind still reeling from the revelation.
LAYER's confirmation only added to the surrealness of the moment, her calm demeanor contrasting sharply with the chaos swirling within me. "
"Yes, tied," she reiterated, her voice steady and unwavering. "Both compositions demonstrated exceptional talent and creativity, making it impossible for us to declare a clear winner."
I exchanged a bewildered glance with CHU², her disbelief mirroring my own.
Tied? It was a conclusion I hadn't anticipated, throwing my expectations into disarray.
PAREO's enthusiastic voice broke through the stunned silence, injecting a sense of excitement into the atmosphere. "What an unexpected turn of events! This battle truly showcased the remarkable talents of both producers."
But CHU²'s reaction was anything but accepting. "No! This can't be! Tied with him?" she exclaimed, her frustration evident in her tone.
And amidst the chaos, I could only echo her sentiment, "Wow... Even I'm shocked by the outcome!"
"Then! You three! What is the difference between my music and his music!?" CHU² demanded an explanation, and the judges took a moment to gather their thoughts before providing their feedback.
LAYER paused for a brief moment before speaking, "CHU², your composition was undeniably impressive. It showcased your mastery of composition and technical skill, with intricate melodies and complex harmonies. However," She turned to me, "Nakasone-san's music, while different in style, also displayed a unique creativity and emotional depth. His use of dynamics and instrumentation (the violin) created a captivating atmosphere that resonated with us."
MASKING nodded in agreement, adding, "Yeah, your music was amazing, but Nakasone-san's had this raw energy and emotion. I know it's not my style to be saying this but it's great."
LOCK chimed in, her expression thoughtful. "I agree. Both compositions were outstanding in their own right, but Nakasone-san's music had this... authenticity to it."
CHU² listened to their feedback with a mixture of frustration and contemplation, her expression unreadable. Then, with a determined glint in her eye, she nodded. "Fine... Thank you for your honesty."
"Woah! That was surprising..." LAYER exclaimed, reacting to CHU²'s unexpected response.
But CHU² wasn't finished yet. With a pointed look in my direction, she declared, "BUT! From now on, Nakasone-san, I see you as my rival!"
Huh?! I thought we were done here!?
"Yeah, I didn't expect CHU² to take it so well," MASKING remarked, her surprise evident in her tone. "I thought she'd be more... well, furious."
LOCK nodded in agreement. "Yeah, me too. But I guess even CHU²-san can take a loss gracefully when it's necessary."
And so, the music duel reached its conclusion with an unexpected tie. I had entered the contest fully expecting CHU²-san to emerge victorious.
It seems that she seriously took this duel really well and I respect that.