Chapter 103: Appease the Audience (+5 Pearls)

In the play's climax, Isabella killed the goddess and celestial lord, casting their spirits into the Cycle of Rebirth—not a literal rebirth, but an illusion projecting entire lifetimes. She made them relive the lives of everyone they'd killed, from hope to despair to death. After their divine memories returned, they were thrust into their next lives. Isabella, having stripped the goddess of her power, scattered it across the earth, allowing vengeful spirits to ascend to the afterlife, restoring life and vitality to all things. This power originally stemmed from the three realms' faith in the heavens, a faith the goddess had misused; Isabella corrected this.

Isabella's exit was a gradual fade, as if countless vengeful spirits found peace and dispersed. The resonant narration echoed: "Are you worthy of others' faith and admiration? Are you ready for it?"

The unconventional script stunned the audience. The final question served as a wake-up call, prompting spontaneous cheers and applause. David, Selena, and Evian, filled with pride, cheered for Team A-list. The director and producer were astounded by the online buzz and data metrics. They had pondered the theme of faith, considering various interpretations, but Team A-list’s ending was a rebuke: "Are you worthy of others' faith and admiration? Are you ready for it? Will you discipline yourself and lead by example? It isn't just about power; you must fulfill your responsibilities. Otherwise, what is your purpose?"

By comparison, Team Duo Alpha, whose faith centered on love and affection, seemed shallow. While profound, faith-based love might exist, the two plays were vastly different. No one dared claim Team Duo Alpha's portrayal possessed such depth. Even their fans were silent.

(83%)

Online, praise for Team Duo Alpha vanished, replaced by harsh comparisons. The debate intensified, even encompassing medieval fantasy dramas, focusing on Maverick's stereotypical roles.

Netizen: "This is what happens when they don't choose scripts carefully and just try to appease the audience."

Netizen: "Despite teasing a transformation, Maverick played it safe, sticking to familiar roles. His fans cited improved teamwork."

Netizen: "Improved teamwork? Look at Team A-list! Isabella, a newbie, acts like a board! How dare they use that excuse?"

Netizen: "Where are Team Duo Alpha's fans? Weren't you boastful? Do you still believe their performances are touching?"

A die-hard Team Duo Alpha fan responded: "It was a poor script choice. He works hard; we believe in his future, even if this time wasn't great. We'll always support him!"

Another fan added: "Exactly! Hendrick's girlfriend sacrificed a lot! We can't dismiss their efforts because of one mistake."

Another wrote: "It's the agency's fault! Why choose such a script? They're plotting against him! The staff should explain!"

Maverick and Hendrick shared an agency. The PR department contacted them to discuss a response. Meanwhile, Team Duo Alpha waited for Isabella and Christopher.

A supporting actress worried, "Are we being too harsh?"

Christopher reassured them, "Don't worry. I chose the script. It won't affect you."

Isabella smiled, "It's fine. We're like them, playing a cliché. How can they blame us?"

The other actors were distrustful, viewing them as troublemakers. This stirred their curiosity; they followed to see what happened backstage.

It would be a shame to miss the excitement. Everyone loves gossip.

Backstage, the Quirks (who'd used connections to gain access) discussed Isabella's inner thoughts. They'd put in so much effort; they must feel awkward. It's a shame they couldn't see their expressions in the waiting area. The Quirks pursed their lips; their own expressions were quite a spectacle.

Maverick, Hendrick, and Mirabelle huddled together. Maverick appeared angry; Hendrick gloomy; Mirabelle pitifully innocent, her eyes red.

Maverick coldly huffed, glancing at Danielle, but she ignored them. Previously, Danielle always defended him. Remembering their recent disagreement, Maverick hesitated to confront Christopher.

Hendrick, however, directly asked, "Isn't this unjust? We didn't offend you, did we?"

Christopher stopped, gazing at Hendrick. Silence fell. Hendrick, financially secure and indifferent about his career, wasn't afraid to offend Christopher.

Isabella hadn't expected Hendrick's boldness. She'd thought they'd maintain appearances. Hendrick's usual demeanor didn't suggest such impatience.

Isabella thought, "This isn't just about the script, but our performance defying clichés. It forced them to postpone their plans. Wait is he really ready to let his girlfriend be a secret lover?"

Upon hearing this, the Quirks nearly laughed. Even Christopher struggled to mask his emotions, fixing a complex gaze on Hendrick.