Chapter 97: Gossip Situation

In the waiting area, besides Isabella and Christopher, two more groups of guests remained. Everyone, bored, watched the large screen.

The trio's performance wasn't bad; the plot was simply cliché. Even without strong acting, the next plot point was predictable. Maverick played a celestial lord who fell in love with Mirabelle's mortal lady, overcoming many trials. The mortal lady then saved Hendrick's injured demon lord.

The three enacted various dramas in the mortal realm. Only at the end was the celestial lord's true identity revealed, requiring his return to the celestial realm.

The live audience, and online viewers, found the story dull; the live stream's comments dwindled. The initial burst of comments and questions at the play's start had subsided. While Hendrick and Maverick's fans initially got along, a subtle rivalry persisted. One actor excelled in medieval fantasy, the other in teen dramas; since they collaborated, neither could be overtly favored.

Maverick sought an image change. Fans expected something unique from him, given the ideal platform and professional support, but the play remained medieval fantasy. Hendrick's fans were displeased.

One typed: "Isn't this just making [our] idol a supporting character?" They then targeted Maverick's fans.

Maverick's fans were frustrated. Maverick had starred in several similar roles with the same character types. They were tired of seeing the same thing and wanted to see different sides to his performance. While they understood his choice of medieval fantasy, they were still disappointed and tried to turn public opinion in his favor.

A netizen commented: "The intense competition was only in the first round. What's the rush? Perhaps it's just a way for them to better understand each other."

Another added: "We haven't even mentioned your idol dragging others down."

Someone wrote: "Also, your idol has never acted in medieval fantasy before. This is a perfect opportunity for him to showcase his talent. It's a good thing for you, so don't feign innocence after gaining an advantage!"

In short, the comments barely discussed the plot.

Even Taylor and Riley shook their heads. "I have no idea why they chose this script. It's not interesting at all. I think this part is done for," Riley said.

As they spoke, a cry arose from below. They looked, stunned. The waiting area guests watched with wide eyes. The comments exploded with astonishment.

Before the celestial lord's departure, he confronted his love. The mortal lady, feeling unworthy, pretended to be with the demon lord. Mirabelle found herself in Hendrick's arms; he kissed her possessively. Maverick intervened, pulling Mirabelle away and assertively kissing her. The angle clearly showed it wasn't a forced perspective.

They really kissed!

While arguably unnecessary for the play, Maverick passionately kissed Mirabelle in front of her boyfriend. The audience questioned the appropriateness. They were far more interested in the behind-the-scenes drama than the play itself. Gossip held undeniable allure.

Actors from the other groups wore mocking expressions, assuming the trio was creating controversy for attention. Such behavior was typical of less-known actors, but not A-listers; it risked fan backlash.

Isabella thought, "I initially thought they had eliminated all such plotlines, but surprisingly, as soon as Danielle stopped caring, those plotlines were immediately reinstated."

Christopher felt the trio was psychologically preparing fans for a future relationship change. Isabella observed their expressions, noting Hendrick almost broke character; his surprise excitement fit his "Crazy Hendrick" moniker.

The comments were chaotic, mostly fans comforting each other. The performance continued. The celestial and demon lords fought over the mortal lady, utilizing extravagant stage effects. Buildings collapsed as the earth shook.

The demon lord took the mortal lady; the wounded celestial lord returned to the celestial realm. He intended to seek her but was stopped by celestials who deemed him unworthy of a woman entangled with the demon lord. A fairy urged him to sever ties with her, listing reasons for the greater good.

Negotiations between the realms were underway. The demon lord boldly brought the mortal lady into the celestial realm. The celestial lord and mortal lady stared at each other, unspoken words passing between them.

The live comments finally speculated on the plot.

One typed: "Am I the only one who thinks that if this mortal lady can be with the demon lord, then why can't she be with the celestial lord?"

Another added: "Perhaps she was compelled to stay by the demon lord's side."

Someone lamented: "After such a long detour…"

A netizen remarked: "Am I the only one who noticed something off about that fairy? When she spoke about severing emotional ties, she was clearly trying to make the celestial lord fall out of love with the mortal lady. It's obvious she's after the celestial lord."

Another agreed: "That must be it. She used righteousness to pressure the celestial lord, clearly aiming to take over. She must be the villainous second female lead."

The spectators reacted little; it was a typical plot. However, those who saw Team A-list rehearse knew the fairy storyline wasn't original. The reason seemed obvious.

Isabella frowned. "How shameless. Maverick previously used Danielle, but in reality, they had already set a trap. On the surface, it seems like a standard plotline, but in reality, the three of them were insinuating that Danielle was just like this fairy. Surely that's not the case. Maverick couldn't possibly believe that such a roundabout approach wouldn't count as using Danielle to clear his name. How could he have the audacity to ask Danielle for help earlier? I'm truly astounded by his shamelessness."

Christopher mentally sneered. They understood the power of netizen imagination; once things blew up, netizens would wonder why and how, and the play would serve as "evidence."

The three Quirk family members, having heard the gossip, understood. Following the natural line of thought, they felt a chill.

Backstage, Danielle scowled at the screen, disbelief flickering in her eyes. She understood, and her heart turned cold.

Rosalie, Hayden, and Thalia whispered. Hayden patted Danielle's shoulder, silently handing her a business card—custom-made by Christopher, using his agency owner identity.

"What do you mean?" Danielle asked, surprised.

Hayden smiled. "Given your knack for staying informed, you must have heard about Christopher and me planning to expand overseas. Therefore, we're in need of a professional agent for our agency."

Danielle's expression changed. She hadn't considered her future, yet she received a job offer. She wouldn't agree hastily.

Hayden smiled. "No rush. I'm just expressing our interest. We'll get in touch with you later." He returned to watching the play.