From the depths of that obscurity, a piano melody emerged, a soothing and restorative tune that felt like a gentle beacon in the void. In just a few rhythmic notes, it managed to absorb all the audience.

Then, with a swift camera cut, the lights illuminated a dignified elderly man, instantly recognized by some viewers.

Someone in the virtual crowd immediately identified the elderly gentleman, and the comment section erupted with astonishment.

"It's Julio Cugat! My goodness! It's Julio!"

"It is him! Christ!! Julio Cugat!!!"

“The live audience must be making a fortune!"

“A live performance by Julio! A chance I may never get!"

The live chat not only lit up but also left many managers in the audience stunned, and the contestants themselves were equally amazed, rising to their feet.

Those within the music industry were equally euphoric. How had the production team managed to secure Julio Cugat?

Even Jacob, the musical director, dropped his music sheets in astonishment and excitedly stood up.

That was his idol!

As the musical director, disbelief had a hold on him; Julio's arrival had escaped his awareness.

Jacob, swept up in a whirlwind of excitement, grasped the stage manager and inquired, “Why was there no prior announcement of Mr. Cugat's presence?"

The stage manager, equally bewildered, joined in Jacob's sense of mystification.

Julio had remained concealed during yesterday's rehearsal, and all they knew was that Ariana had extended a personal invitation to a special guest - Julio remained a well-guarded secret.

What followed next was even more astonishing: the performance delivered by Ariana's team.

It bore no resemblance to the online rumors. Though the contestants appeared unfamiliar with each other earlier backstage, their onstage collaboration flowed with seamless grace.

With Julio's accompaniment, an aura of enchantment and healing enveloped the entire stage. Combined with rap-style narrations, the performance transformed into a mesmerizing visual and auditory spectacle.

Initially anticipated as mere entertainment, the performance left everyone in a state of awe. It transcended expectations; it was nothing short of a grand premiere.

The live stream became a frenzy of effusive compliments, tips, and creatively styled comments, all extolling its brilliance. Some viewers were so moved that they shed tears in reverential awe. The comments overflowed with expressions of admiration and wonder.