Reunited

Chapter Five

        Professor Fox met the 'chosen eight' inside the Practise Room to give out the judges' ratings and comments concerning their presentation inside the Amphitheatre. He read aloud each student's profile and gave some advice on what to improve.

        "Miss Anne Uy," He opened a folder containing papers from the judges and started reading the comments and ratings. "You have an average score of 9 out of 10. The judges thought you had done a wonderful piece. Though one of the judges gave you an eight since he wasn't familiar of the song that you played, they all came to an agreement not to change your song. What I can suggest for you is to try to give an interesting 'introduction' to your song before heading on to the first stanza of the song and end it gracefully."

        Everyone gave her a warm round of applause.

        "Miss Josephine," The professor searched for Jo's folder and opened it. "You scored the highest, with an average score of 9.33 out of 10. Two gave you nine and one gave you ten. Although your piece was a folk song, the judges felt you gave it a bit of modern sound, which they all think was great. The pedal and the wise use of crescendo and decrescendo worked as if you were painting a picture with your song. I advise you to practise harder for your song to be able to flow smoothly. Take your time in playing your piece, slow down."

       Everyone clapped.

        "My work here is done; you are all free to go."

        "Yes!" Some spoke softly; relieved they would not have any practise for the day. They all took their bags and left the Practise Room.

       Anne and Jo thought of staying inside the Cafeteria to pass the time.

       Once seated in their usual 'spot', Anne immediately took out her phone and accessed her e-mail. She squealed again upon seeing another e-mail coming from Michael.

        "Jo! Jo!" Anne exclaimed.

        "What?" Jo looked up to Anne, who was studying for math. "You received another e-mail?"

        "Yea," Anne couldn't help from smiling. "Listen to this:

        "Dear Anne,

               "We are pleased to receive your prompt reply regarding this matter. However, having only one accomplice is not enough for our 'adventure' to take place.

               "If you are willing enough, we are asking you to enlist another accomplice – one of your friends, perhaps." Anne looked at Jo.

               "Since the tour will be happening within two months, we need you to prepare ahead for your mission. On the day when fans are entitled to meet and greet us, please wear an orange shirt and red jeans for us to easily recognise you.

               "Details will be further explained in the next days to come. Once again, thank you for your cooperation.

              "Sincerely yours, Michael Stroud." 

       Anne was looking at Jo with an evil grin. Jo seemed to notice.

        "What?" Jo asked.

        "Didn't you listen to the e-mail I just read aloud?"

        "Yes, I did listen, why are you looking at me like that-?"

       Anne repetitively raised her eyebrows while grinning at Jo.

        "Oh," It was then Jo realised that she was to become the other 'accomplice'. "You want 'me' to-"