On the Thousand Postures Reconstructed by the Scumbags

A1 C4: His Once Powerless Past

The system had mentioned it multiple times, but Xi Nian clearly didn't care. He ignored the swarming reporters and returned backstage to change his clothes, preparing to leave.

Sun Ming followed him, quickly blocking his path, "Hey, where are you going? There are so many reporters outside waiting for you. At least show your face."

Xi Nian, dressed in black sportswear with a travel bag over his left shoulder, pulled the zipper up to his chin, covering most of his face, showing no intention of being interviewed. "I'm not going."

With his hands in his pockets, his fingertips uncontrollably twitched. He clenched his fists to suppress it.

Sun Ming adjusted his glasses, frowning with a hint of annoyance, "You've stolen the limelight from Su Ge this time. Things aren't going to end well. His contract with the company is ending soon, and the higher-ups are trying to renew it. If he holds a grudge against you and uses this incident to threaten, think about the consequences!"

The relationship between an artist and their manager is mutually beneficial. Xi Nian gaining attention was good for Sun Ming, but this kind of attention was not what the company wanted to see.

An established idol and a newcomer with an uncertain future – it's an obvious choice for anyone.

Xi Nian only said three words, "Let them be."

Shanxing Entertainment was clearly not a good choice due to their strict contract terms. Many artists under them were in legal battles, tarnishing their reputation and declining in strength. Xi Nian had no intention of signing a long-term contract.

Sun Ming didn't understand his thoughts yet, "Have you lost your mind?! It's just a small competition. Losing to Su Ge isn't a big deal. There will be plenty of opportunities in the future. You've surpassed him now, but tomorrow, you'll be attacked by his fans on Weibo. It's pointless!"

Sun Ming couldn't stand Xi Nian's indifferent attitude anymore. He left angrily.

Xi Nian didn't chase after him. He glanced at his right hand; the wrist was visibly swollen. He discreetly rolled down his sleeve and was about to go to the hospital when he remembered his phone was still in the dressing room. He turned back.

The dressing room was empty.

He retrieved his phone from the cabinet. The time displayed on it was 26th, and the screen dimmed shortly after.

He vaguely remembered that in his past life, around this time, a famous male star's cheating scandal dominated Weibo headlines, causing quite a stir. The mastermind behind it was Lu Xingzhe.

So, roughly speaking, that paparazzi who might have been injured tonight?

Xi Nian leaned against the cabinet door, lost in thought. After a moment, he smirked. System 009 was observing him, feeling like he was gloating over someone else's misfortune, but upon closer look, it didn't seem like it.

"Congratulations, first place."

As Xi Nian was lost in thought, a sarcastic voice came from behind. Turning around, he saw Su Ge, eyebrows slightly raised, knowing he was up to something.

Su Ge had just been surrounded and questioned by reporters, looking rather upset. He walked to the water dispenser, filled a cup, and, with a cold tone, asked, "Feeling proud?"

Xi Nian had spent many years in the entertainment industry in his past life. Su Ge's provocation was like child's play to him, not even worthy of his attention. He sidestepped Su Ge and walked straight towards the exit.

Nothing could be more insulting than this blatant disregard.

Already humiliated, Su Ge was furious. He could have reached the finals but was eliminated early, missing out on exposure. Blocking Xi Nian's path, he asked, "Leaving so soon? Aren't you staying to watch the rest of the competition?"