Chapter Summaries

Chapter 101 Summary

Plot and events

During the livestream recording, Xiao Lin’an’s fans suppress the malicious comments from Chu Xiyue’s gossip-focused fans. The show’s third guest, veteran singer Qi Man, arrives and is introduced as a former top star from Xiao Lin’an’s generation. Viewers praise the production team for gathering two entertainment-industry legends but question whether Chu Xiyue belongs among the mentors because she lacks a traditional idol or talent-show background.
Qi Man bluntly asks Chu Xiyue whether she reported BK Entertainment, the company that was shut down shortly after Chu Xiyue visited it. Chu Xiyue confirms that she did, publicly justifying her actions as a responsibility to report illegal activity. Her admission shocks the livestream audience, who alternately condemn or praise her for bringing down her former employer.

Character developments

Chu Xiyue remains composed and direct despite the public pressure. Although she recognizes Qi Man’s hidden hostility, she refuses to evade the question and confidently accepts responsibility for reporting BK Entertainment. Her righteous response strengthens her image as someone willing to confront corruption.
Qi Man is presented as warm, gentle, and approachable on the surface, but her probing questions reveal a sharp and intrusive side. The system reveals that her hostility stems from a hidden connection to Chu Xiyue’s former manager, Liu Fangya: Qi Man allegedly supplied the drugs Liu used to control and exploit artists.

Character interactions

Qi Man greets Xiao Lin’an as an old colleague before turning her attention to Chu Xiyue. She asks about the BK Entertainment scandal in a deliberately “quiet” voice that the entire livestream can hear, forcing Chu Xiyue to respond publicly. Chu Xiyue senses Qi Man’s hostility but answers firmly, even challenging her to agree that lawbreakers should be punished.

Significant themes

The chapter explores public scrutiny, celebrity gossip, and the danger of hidden scandals in the entertainment industry. It contrasts appearances with reality through Qi Man’s gentle exterior and secret involvement in drug trafficking and artist exploitation. It also emphasizes moral courage and accountability, as Chu Xiyue openly defends whistleblowing and frames reporting illegal behavior as a civic responsibility.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qi Man confirms her involvement in the scandal, though she is visibly uncomfortable. Chu Xiyue recognizes that Qi Man feels targeted and privately admits that she is intentionally hinting at Qi Man’s wrongdoing.
• Chu Xiyue asks the system when Qi Man will be exposed. The original novel never gave a precise timeline, but corruption among the show’s mentors was originally uncovered about a year after the group debuted.
• In the original timeline, Wen Yan and Ning Shuixin’s tax-evasion case eventually led investigators to Liu Fangya, and later to Qi Man. However, the timeline has changed significantly: Wen Yan, Ning Shuixin, Liu Fangya, and several BK Entertainment executives have already been arrested.
• Qi Man destroyed evidence after realizing the investigation was closing in, making her case more difficult to prove. The system estimates that she may be exposed anywhere from half a month to half a year, since drug trafficking requires stronger evidence than financial crimes.
• Chu Xiyue learns that the show’s mentors have an alarming number of scandals among them: vice, gambling, and drug-related crimes already account for several mentors.
• Before Chu Xiyue can meet the remaining mentors, the production team takes her to prepare for filming.
• The livestream shifts to the 101 contestants, who are introduced to the audience before being shown to their dorms and evaluation stage.
• The five mentors perform the opening stage together. Chu Xiyue’s elegant, ethereal appearance immediately captivates both the trainees and online viewers, while Qi Man provides the vocals.
• The performance is highly praised, with the trainees acknowledging the mentors’ superior skill and experience.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue: Becomes increasingly determined to expose Qi Man, though she must wait for the investigation to progress. She also demonstrates strong awareness of the altered timeline and the limits of her ability to intervene. Her stunning stage appearance causes the public to reassess her, shifting attention away from gossip and toward her beauty and talent.
• Qi Man: Shows anxiety and defensiveness, sensing that Chu Xiyue’s comments may be directed at her. Although she has destroyed evidence, she remains vulnerable because of her connection to Liu Fangya’s crimes.
• The System: Provides information about the original novel and monitors the changed investigation, estimating when Qi Man might be exposed.
• The Trainees: Begin as largely unknown newcomers, but are excited and impressed by the mentors. Their reactions reveal both admiration and awareness of their own inexperience.
• Han Minyi: Is indirectly overshadowed by Chu Xiyue’s appearance, despite previously being promoted as the face of her girl group.

Significant Themes

• Altered fate and disrupted timelines: The current events no longer follow the original novel because arrests and investigations have happened much earlier.
• Justice and delayed consequences: Chu Xiyue wants to expose Qi Man, but legal proof is difficult to obtain, especially in drug-related crimes.
• Public image versus hidden corruption: The mentors appear polished and talented onstage, even as several are involved in serious scandals.
• Beauty, celebrity, and audience perception: Chu Xiyue’s appearance dramatically changes viewers’ opinions, showing how quickly public attention can shift in the entertainment industry.
• Power and comparison: The trainees admire the mentors while recognizing the vast gap between their current abilities and those of established entertainers.

Character Interactions

• Chu Xiyue and Qi Man exchange tense, indirect remarks, with Chu Xiyue deliberately provoking Qi Man while Qi Man attempts to hide her unease.
• Chu Xiyue consults the system about Qi Man’s future exposure and the progress of the criminal investigation.
• The production team directs Chu Xiyue and the other mentors through preparation and filming.
• The mentors perform together, while the trainees and livestream audience react with awe.
• Online viewers compare Chu Xiyue with Qi Man and Han Minyi, praising Chu Xiyue’s beauty and suggesting that her presence overwhelms the other female mentors.

• The mentors’ performance ends, and the trainees’ ranking competition begins. Chu Xiyue is relieved she didn’t hold the others back and looks forward to judging the contestants.
• Joker Group—Wen Lun, Xu Huaichun, and Zhang Siran—opens the competition with a jazz-inspired rearrangement of a classic song. Their polished performance impresses the mentors and audience. Chu Xiyue applauds enthusiastically and gives them an A; four mentors agree, while Han Minyi gives them a B for average dancing. After discussion, all three advance to Group A.
• Wen Lun asks original singer Xiao Lin’an for feedback, thrilled when Xiao praises him. The system reveals, however, that Wen Lun previously lent Xiao money that Xiao never repaid. Wen Lun is also Cheng Heyun’s cousin, and the money had been intended for Cheng’s birthday gift.
• The system adds that Wen Lun has a long history of gullibility and misfortune, from being swindled as a child to falling for an online romance scam. Chu Xiyue finds these stories hilarious, though she later feels sympathy for him.
• When Chu asks about the group’s name, Wen Lun explains that his family chose “Joker” to mean “ace.” The system says Cheng Heyun actually named the group casually while playing cards, and the word could also mean “clown.” Chu is amused by the misunderstanding.
• With Joker Group’s strong showing, Chu becomes eager to see the remaining trainees. The next act is introduced as a duo of handsome, classically styled performers.
  Character developments and interactions: Chu shifts from nervous anticipation to enjoying her role as a mentor, balancing sincere evaluation with amusement at the system’s gossip. Wen Lun’s confidence and admiration for Xiao Lin’an contrast with his hidden history as Xiao’s unpaid lender and his recurring gullibility. Xiao’s praise delights Wen Lun, while the system’s revelations give Chu—and the reader—an ironic perspective on their interaction.
  Themes: The chapter contrasts public talent with private behavior, celebrity admiration with the risk of disillusionment, and earnest confidence with comic misunderstandings. It also highlights the difference between judging a performance fairly and judging a person’s character.

Chapter 104 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chu Xiyue continues filming the audition evaluations for Boy Group 101, where contestants are placed into Classes A, B, C, or F according to their abilities.
• Two handsome contestants perform poorly: one sings at an average karaoke level, while the other is remarkably tone-deaf despite his attractive appearance. The second contestant is placed in Class F, while the first receives Class C.
• The evaluations continue for twelve exhausting hours, with 101 contestants being assessed. The livestream attracts attention and generates several trending searches, including topics about the show, returning celebrities, Chu Xiyue’s appearance, and the contestants’ disastrous performances.
• After filming ends, Chu Xiyue stays overnight at the production base. She orders spicy hot pot and goes to collect it from the entrance.
• Near the east gate, she overhears a man arranging for a woman to climb over the wall and enter secretly. She initially suspects someone is trespassing and prepares to contact security.
• The system identifies the man as fellow mentor Wei Susheng and reveals that he is connected to a previous scandal involving the Liu Family’s son. According to the system, Wei was allegedly involved in an illicit group gathering and has a hidden, morally corrupt side beneath his respectable exterior.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue: Demonstrates professionalism by enduring terrible performances without losing composure. She also becomes increasingly alert and investigative when she overhears suspicious activity, while relying on the system to uncover hidden information.
• Wei Susheng: His public image as an honest, respectable mentor is sharply contrasted with the system’s revelation that he is allegedly involved in scandalous private activities.
• The contestants: The chapter emphasizes the contrast between appearance and talent, showing that physical attractiveness does not guarantee singing ability.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: Attractive contestants may lack talent, while respectable public figures may conceal disturbing private behavior.
• Entertainment-industry image-making: The production team appears to prioritize appearance, and the show’s scandals and trending topics attract as much attention as its performances.
• Professional endurance: Chu Xiyue and the other mentors work through an exhausting twelve-hour filming schedule despite the strain.
• Hidden scandals and gossip: The system exposes secrets behind the public personas of celebrities and industry figures.

Character Interactions

• Chu Xiyue evaluates the two contestants, privately comparing their performances and maintaining a professional expression despite being shocked by their singing.
• She interacts indirectly with the livestream audience, whose reactions mirror her disbelief at the contestants’ poor performances.
• At the base entrance, Chu Xiyue overhears Wei Susheng speaking with a woman he calls to sneak inside, initially interpreting their relationship as that of an employer and employee.
• The system corrects her assumption and reveals that Wei and the woman are allegedly connected through a larger entertainment-industry scandal.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chu Xiyue learns the scandalous histories of the show’s mentors:
  • Xiao Lin’an is a gambling addict who served prison time for shoplifting.
  • Qi Man is suspected of drug dealing.
  • Wei Susheng was caught by an anti-prostitution squad.
• She jokingly concludes that the mentor lineup represents “sex, gambling, and drugs,” reinforcing the reality show’s reputation as a gathering of disgraced celebrities.
• Chu witnesses Wei Susheng bringing an unfamiliar woman toward the mentors’ dormitory while pretending she is his assistant.
• She discovers that the woman is actually significant enough to interest Wu Taotao, a journalist who has been secretly photographing Wei.
• Wu and Chu exchange gossip:
  • Wu reveals that Director Yang has been investigated for tax evasion, lost funding for his upcoming film, and persuaded a wealthy coal boss’s wife—who had a past relationship with him—to invest her savings in the project.
  • In return, Chu tells Wu the true identity of Wei Susheng’s female companion, which turns out to be an even bigger scoop.
• After eating her hot pot, Chu searches online and discovers that numerous web novelists have suddenly taken leave. She follows the rumors across several websites and uncovers another major piece of gossip, going to sleep satisfied.
• The next day, filming resumes with the contestants recording the theme song. Each mentor except Xiao Lin’an is assigned a class, and Chu draws Class A.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue remains observant, blunt, and highly entertained by scandals. She is increasingly comfortable using her knowledge and curiosity to gather information, though she is also motivated by practical concerns—particularly food and entertainment.
• Wu Taotao is shown as a persistent investigative journalist who follows celebrities for exclusive material. She recognizes Chu as a useful source and skillfully trades gossip to obtain information.
• Wei Susheng is portrayed as shameless and secretive, openly flirting with the woman while attempting to conceal her identity from the production staff.
• Director Yang emerges as a manipulative but romantically influential figure who uses an old emotional connection to obtain financial backing.
• The mentors collectively develop an image as a scandal-ridden, morally compromised cast.

Significant Themes

• Celebrity scandal and hypocrisy: The chapter highlights the entertainment industry’s fixation on exposing private misconduct and damaged reputations.
• Gossip as currency: Information is exchanged like a commodity, with Chu and Wu directly bartering one scoop for another.
• Reputation versus reality: Public rumors often fail to capture the full truth; the woman with Wei is far more important—and scandalous—than Wu initially assumes.
• Voyeurism and privacy: Journalists, staff, contestants, and online readers all participate in observing and speculating about celebrities’ private lives.
• Absurdity and dark humor: The extreme scandals surrounding the mentors are presented comically, making the show’s premise seem intentionally outrageous.

Character Interactions

• Chu Xiyue and Wu Taotao reconnect unexpectedly and immediately fall into a mutually beneficial gossip exchange.
• Chu and Wei Susheng do not speak directly, but Chu observes his behavior and recognizes his attempt to hide the woman.
• Wu Taotao and Wei Susheng are connected through Wu’s covert investigation and photography.
• Chu and the system react together to the increasingly outrageous scandals, sharing her amused and curious perspective.

Chapter Summary: “Nightdream Bar Raided”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Class A contestants begin learning the program’s theme song, with three days allotted for practice before another class reassignment. Chu Xiyue, already skilled enough, has little to do.
• Qi Man invites Chu Xiyue to Nightdream Bar, claiming they can watch male model performances. The bar is an exclusive establishment frequented by wealthy heirs and celebrities.
• Chu Xiyue and the system quickly realize the invitation is a trap. Qi Man owns or has invested in the bar and intends to drug Chu Xiyue with an addictive substance to control her and protect her drug business.
• Rather than refusing, Chu Xiyue deliberately accepts the invitation. She secretly contacts the police and goes to the bar prepared to expose Qi Man.
• At the bar, Qi Man leads Chu Xiyue to an upstairs private room where drinks have already been tampered with. Chu Xiyue confirms that Qi Man is carrying the drugs in her handbag.
• Before Chu Xiyue can drink, police raid Nightdream Bar. They take control of the premises, order everyone to surrender their phones, and begin inspecting the guests.
• Qi Man tries to claim that the bar operates legally, but the police interrupt her and instruct everyone to leave the private room and gather downstairs for inspection. Her nervous reaction suggests she knows the raid may expose her crimes.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue: Demonstrates caution, intelligence, and moral resolve. Although she recognizes the danger, she chooses to attend in order to stop Qi Man from harming more people. Her hidden earbud and advance call to the police show that she has carefully prepared for the confrontation.
• Qi Man: Reveals herself as manipulative and involved in illegal drug trafficking. Her friendly invitation is merely a scheme to drug and control Chu Xiyue. Her anxiety during the raid exposes her lack of confidence and fear of being caught.
• The system: Acts as Chu Xiyue’s warning and support, monitoring Qi Man’s communications and confirming the trap. It is frightened for Chu Xiyue’s safety but ultimately trusts her judgment.

Significant Themes

• Deception and hidden motives: Qi Man disguises a criminal plot as a friendly night out.
• Justice and accountability: Chu Xiyue risks herself to help expose Qi Man and prevent further victims.
• Cleverness versus manipulation: Chu Xiyue counters Qi Man’s scheme through preparation and strategic cooperation with the authorities.
• Appearance versus reality: Nightdream Bar appears to be a glamorous entertainment venue but is actually connected to vice and drug dealing.

Character Interactions

• Qi Man acts warmly toward Chu Xiyue, while Chu Xiyue remains guarded and questions her motives.
• The system repeatedly warns Chu Xiyue not to attend, but Chu Xiyue explains that allowing Qi Man to continue could endanger others.
• In the private room, the other guests pressure Chu Xiyue to drink, unknowingly participating in Qi Man’s trap.
• When the police arrive, Qi Man attempts to maintain control and present herself as a legitimate business owner, but the officers firmly take charge and begin the investigation.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

• Qi Man tries to leave Nightdream Bar with her handbag, claiming she wants to touch up her lipstick and later insisting that valuables are inside.
• Chu Xiyue innocently but pointedly challenges Qi Man’s excuses, reminding her that the police have ordered everyone not to touch anything and urging her to cooperate.
• Qi Man’s suspicious behavior draws the police’s attention. When a police dog enters, it circles her and signals an alert, preventing her from leaving.
• A police team leader informs Qi Man that she must remain for investigation. Her ashen reaction and thought—“It’s over”—strongly suggest that she is hiding something serious.
• Outside the bar, livestreamer Liu Dajun notices the police operation and brings his viewers along as he investigates. He learns that patrons are being tested for drug use.
• His livestream audience grows dramatically as viewers speculate about the raid, discussing the bar’s wealthy clientele, expensive prices, and the possibility of illegal activity.
• Liu sees several people being taken into police custody. He recognizes one of them as Chu Xiyue, ending the chapter on a cliffhanger.

Character developments

• Qi Man: Her calm façade breaks under pressure. Her insistence on taking her bag, combined with the police dog’s reaction, makes her appear deeply suspicious and possibly connected to drugs or other evidence.
• Chu Xiyue: Maintains an innocent, composed appearance while subtly cornering Qi Man and drawing attention to her suspicious actions. Her behavior suggests cleverness and possible hidden motives.
• Liu Dajun: Shifts from casual singer-streamer to impromptu reporter, using his livestreaming experience to capitalize on the police raid and attract a large audience.

Significant themes

• Deception versus innocence: Chu Xiyue’s apparent innocence contrasts with Qi Man’s increasingly obvious anxiety.
• Exposure and consequences: The police investigation threatens to uncover hidden crimes or secrets, while Qi Man realizes she may have been caught.
• Public spectacle and social media: Liu’s livestream turns a private police operation into mass entertainment, showing how quickly public curiosity and online attention can spread.
• Class and privilege: Nightdream Bar’s membership fees and extravagant prices emphasize its association with wealthy young elites, making the police raid especially sensational.

Character interactions

• Qi Man and Chu Xiyue engage in a tense exchange, with Chu Xiyue politely questioning every excuse Qi Man gives.
• The police scrutinize Qi Man after her refusal to leave the bag and the police dog’s alert.
• Liu Dajun interviews bystanders and relays their information to his viewers.
• The chapter concludes with Liu recognizing Chu Xiyue among those being taken away, raising questions about her involvement in the incident.

Chapter Summary:

Assistant Li’s Discovery

Key Plot Points and Events

• Liu Dajun, a fan of Chu Xiyue, recognizes her from behind as she is escorted into a police car after the raid on Nightdream Bar.
• Photos of Chu Xiyue, Qi Man, and other entertainers quickly spread online, causing hashtags such as #Nightdream Bar Raided, #Qi Man Arrested, and #Chu Xiyue Arrested to trend.
• Although the public assumes Chu Xiyue has been arrested, she is actually only being taken to the police station as a witness because she reported suspicious activity.
• Police discover drugs on Qi Man and her companions, as well as nearly a pound of drugs hidden in the bar’s employee area, turning the raid into a major criminal case.
• At the station, Chu Xiyue gives her statement in a mediation room while Qi Man and the others are interrogated. The police thank Chu Xiyue for providing the crucial lead.
• Because the investigation is ongoing and Qi Man’s accomplices might retaliate, the police take precautions to protect Chu Xiyue.
• After finishing her statement, Chu Xiyue eats a late-night meal at the police cafeteria and prepares to leave. An officer offers to arrange transportation for her because it is late and unsafe to take a taxi alone.
• Cheng Heyun arrives in a business van to take her home. He explains that Chu Chengyun, who is away on business, saw the online news and asked him to check on her.
• The chapter ends with Chu Xiyue thinking about Wen Lun and the mysterious group called Joker, suggesting that the police incident may be connected to a larger unresolved plot.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue remains calm and practical despite becoming the subject of sensational online rumors. She treats her trip to the police station almost casually, even finding the police car ride novel and taking advantage of the cafeteria meal.
• Her reputation among government departments grows stronger. Her previous reports helped tax authorities and criminal investigators achieve major results, making officials especially grateful toward her.
• Liu Dajun’s admiration for Chu Xiyue deepens from interest in her gossip to fascination with her appearance, prompting him to identify her in the viral photograph.
• Qi Man becomes directly implicated in a serious drug investigation, shifting her from a celebrity associated with an undercover persona to a possible criminal suspect.
• Cheng Heyun demonstrates strong concern for Chu Xiyue by leaving a reception and traveling across the city to retrieve her, though he downplays the effort by claiming he was “on the way.”
• The system interprets Cheng Heyun’s behavior romantically, but Chu Xiyue rejects that idea. She believes he sees her only as his friend’s younger sister.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: Online observers believe Chu Xiyue has been arrested, while she is actually a cooperative witness. The public’s assumptions contrast sharply with the truth.
• The dangers of celebrity and public exposure: A single photograph rapidly produces misleading trending topics and threatens Chu Xiyue’s reputation.
• Justice and civic responsibility: Chu Xiyue’s willingness to report criminal activity has helped law enforcement solve major cases, emphasizing the value of individual intervention.
• Protective relationships: Cheng Heyun’s actions show loyalty and responsibility, while Chu Chengyun remains concerned about his sister even from afar.
• Romance versus familial affection: The system suspects Cheng Heyun has romantic feelings, but Chu Xiyue distinguishes between genuine romantic interest and protective concern from an older-brother figure.
• Foreshadowing and conspiracy: Chu Xiyue’s renewed thoughts of Wen Lun and Joker imply that the bar raid is part of a broader mystery still unfolding.

Important Character Interactions

• Liu Dajun and Chu Xiyue: Liu recognizes her from a distance and unintentionally contributes to the spread of rumors by photographing the police escort.
• Chu Xiyue and the police: The officers treat her warmly and gratefully because her report led to a major drug seizure. They also take steps to ensure her safety.
• Chu Xiyue and Cheng Heyun: Cheng arrives to escort her home, and their interaction highlights his quiet protectiveness and her firm belief that his concern is non-romantic.
• Chu Xiyue and the system: The system teases her about Cheng Heyun’s supposed attraction, but she remains unconvinced and dismisses its interpretation.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

• Cheng Heyun drives Chu Xiyue home after she is released from the recent incident. During the ride, they discuss the origin of Wen Lun’s group name, JOKER. Cheng admits he chose it casually after becoming irritated with Wen Lun, while Wen Lun had mistakenly interpreted it as meaning “trump card.”
• Chu Xiyue uses Cheng Heyun’s phone to call her brother, Chu Chengyun, reassuring him that she is safe.
• Cheng’s assistant, Li, calls about work. Chu Xiyue holds the phone near Cheng’s ear while he drives, and their brief physical contact creates a subtle moment of romantic tension.
• Chu Xiyue observes Cheng Heyun handling business and is impressed by his serious, capable demeanor.
• After the call, Assistant Li realizes Cheng may be with a woman and is startled by how gentle Cheng sounds with her. He begins suspecting that his normally single boss may have a girlfriend.
• Li then discovers that anti-fans are attacking Chu Xiyue online, falsely claiming that she was arrested for drug-related offenses. As one of her devoted fans and a super-topic moderator, he vigorously defends her and insults the scandals surrounding He Jinyuan.
• Once home and after her phone finishes charging, Chu Xiyue sees the online argument and notices that the highly active defender, “Professional Assistant,” is actually Li, though she does not yet appear to know his identity.

Character developments

• Chu Xiyue remains composed and observant despite the rumors surrounding her. She becomes more aware of Cheng Heyun’s considerate side and feels admiration—and possibly growing attraction—toward him.
• Cheng Heyun shows practical concern by lending Chu Xiyue his phone and ensuring her brother knows she is safe. His gentle tone with her contrasts with his stern professional manner, hinting at deepening feelings.
• Assistant Li is revealed to be both a loyal fan and fierce defender of Chu Xiyue. His discovery of Cheng’s possible romantic relationship adds a humorous, gossip-oriented perspective.

Significant themes

• Romantic tension and intimacy: Small gestures, physical contact, and changes in tone reveal an emerging attraction between Chu Xiyue and Cheng Heyun.
• Public image and online rumors: Chu Xiyue’s reputation is attacked by people eager to believe unverified accusations, highlighting the volatility of celebrity culture.
• Loyalty and fandom: Assistant Li’s determination to defend Chu Xiyue contrasts with the irrational hostility of anti-fans.
• Humor and mistaken assumptions: Wen Lun’s interpretation of “JOKER,” as well as Li’s speculation about Cheng’s love life, provides comic relief.

Character interactions

• Chu Xiyue and Cheng Heyun share playful conversation, mutual consideration, and a subtly charged moment when her finger brushes his cheek.
• Chu Xiyue contacts Chu Chengyun to reassure him.
• Cheng Heyun gives Assistant Li professional instructions while Chu Xiyue witnesses his work persona.
• Assistant Li indirectly interacts with Chu Xiyue through his online defense of her, while also becoming intrigued by Cheng Heyun’s apparent relationship.

Chapter Summary

• Chu Xiyue clears the arrest rumor: After fans and entertainment figures defend her online, Chu Xiyue posts her first Weibo selfie with the joking caption, “I heard I’ve been exposed as a fraud?” The photo proves she is safe and quickly disproves claims that she was arrested. Her beauty wins over more fans, while the arrest-related trending topic gradually fades.
• Assistant Li’s admiration causes suspicion: Assistant Li, an enthusiastic “mother fan,” saves Chu Xiyue’s selfie as his phone wallpaper. When Cheng Heyun accidentally sees it, he questions why Li is using a seemingly private photo of a female celebrity. Cheng unexpectedly admits that Chu Xiyue looks good, then tells Li to change the wallpaper. Li is confused until he recalls hearing a woman’s voice from Cheng’s phone the previous night that sounded exactly like Chu Xiyue’s. He realizes that Chu Xiyue may be Cheng Heyun’s future wife and abandons his idea of exposing the relationship online. He replaces her image with a “Get Rich and Prosper” wallpaper, deciding it is more appropriate for an ordinary wage worker.
• Qi Man fails to appear: Chu Xiyue reports for the next day’s live broadcast of Boy Group 101, and the rumors about her disappear completely. In contrast, Qi Man neither appears on camera nor personally clarifies the situation. Her fans desperately invent explanations, claiming the woman seen with Chu Xiyue was not Qi Man, that Qi Man is in another city, or that she is merely recovering from jet lag.
• The show’s director prepares for scandal control: The program’s general director notices that Qi Man has not come to work and cannot be reached. He concludes that she was likely exposed and worries that her scandal will damage the program. He prepares a statement terminating cooperation with her and begins looking for replacement mentors. The director’s anxiety reveals that the show may contain more than one problematic celebrity.
• Connection to another director: Frustrated, the director complains in a private group chat for variety-show directors. Wang Tao, who previously directed a show featuring Chu Xiyue, sees the messages and recognizes the situation as similar to an earlier incident in which one of his guests was exposed soon after filming began. This sets up a possible parallel or further complication.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Chu Xiyue becomes more confident in responding publicly and receives genuine support from strangers and fans.
• Assistant Li remains loyal and enthusiastic toward Chu Xiyue, but his discovery of her connection to Cheng Heyun makes him more cautious.
• Cheng Heyun shows subtle possessiveness or concern over another man displaying Chu Xiyue’s photo, though he does not explain his order to change the wallpaper.
• Qi Man becomes increasingly isolated as her silence and disappearance contrast sharply with Chu Xiyue’s public clarification.
• Qi Man’s fans demonstrate denial and blind loyalty by constructing unsupported defenses.
• The program director shifts from hoping for the best to actively protecting the show’s reputation and preparing to sever ties with Qi Man.

Significant Themes

• Public image and rumor control: A single selfie can overturn widespread online speculation, while silence allows suspicion to grow.
• Fan loyalty versus reality: Qi Man’s fans cling to implausible explanations, showing how devotion can obscure evidence.
• Professional damage control: The show’s director prioritizes the program’s survival and reputation over personal loyalty to Qi Man.
• Hidden relationships and possessiveness: Assistant Li’s realization about Cheng Heyun and Chu Xiyue adds a humorous romantic undercurrent.
• The contrast between authenticity and scandal: Chu Xiyue’s straightforward response strengthens her public image, while Qi Man’s disappearance makes her appear guilty.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The police announce the successful investigation of Nightdream Bar, where they arrested drug users and suspected dealers. Based on information from the suspects, everyone involved in the criminal network is gradually apprehended.
• The announcement indirectly exposes Qi Man, a famous celebrity, as a drug dealer involved in supplying drugs and luring others into drug use.
• Netizens quickly identify Qi Man from the announcement’s clues, and #QiManArrestedForDrugDealing# becomes the top trending topic. The scandal overwhelms social media, nearly crashing Weibo.
• Further online speculation links Qi Man to the earlier BK Entertainment scandal, suggesting she supplied the drugs used by agent Liu Fangya to control and exploit artists.
• Brands immediately terminate their contracts with Qi Man, and public anger intensifies.
• Qi Man’s antis attempt to implicate Chu Xiyue, pointing out that she had been taken to the police station with Qi Man after the bar incident.
• Assistant Li fiercely defends Chu Xiyue online under his fan persona, exposing the hypocrisy of Qi Man’s supporters and attacking those who spread rumors.
• After learning about the attacks, Cheng Heyun decides to intervene. He has Weibo ban accounts attacking Chu Xiyue, delete the defamatory posts, and remove the negative trending topic.
• Assistant Li interprets Cheng Heyun’s actions as evidence that Cheng Heyun and Chu Xiyue have romantic potential, privately celebrating the apparent “ship.”
• Chu Xiyue remains unaware of the online attacks when she wakes up.
• “Boy Group 101” terminates Qi Man’s contract, cuts all ties with her, and plans to pursue legal action. The program hires a replacement dance instructor: Li Fan’er, an old acquaintance of Chu Xiyue recommended by Wang Tao.

Character Developments

• Qi Man suffers a complete public and professional collapse. She is revealed not merely as a drug user but as a drug dealer and supplier, making her criminal responsibility far more serious.
• Chu Xiyue is shown to be protected by people around her, although she is unaware of the extent of the online attacks or the efforts made on her behalf.
• Assistant Li demonstrates intense loyalty to Chu Xiyue. His witty, aggressive online defense establishes him as a formidable fan and comic source of support.
• Cheng Heyun begins acting more directly in Chu Xiyue’s interests. Though he frames his intervention as protecting a family friend and his friend’s sister, his willingness to use his influence suggests growing personal concern.
• Wang Tao continues to help behind the scenes by recommending suitable replacements for the show.
• Li Fan’er is introduced as the new dance instructor, reconnecting Chu Xiyue with someone from her past.

Significant Themes

• Public scandal and accountability: Qi Man’s celebrity status cannot shield her from the consequences of serious crimes.
• The power of public opinion: Social media rapidly transforms the police announcement into a nationwide scandal, while brands immediately distance themselves from Qi Man.
• Rumor versus evidence: Chu Xiyue is nearly condemned by association, showing how quickly online communities equate proximity with guilt.
• Loyalty and protection: Assistant Li and Cheng Heyun defend Chu Xiyue in different ways, demonstrating the importance of allies amid public scrutiny.
• Celebrity image and collapse: Qi Man’s carefully built public persona disintegrates once the truth is revealed.

Character Interactions

• Wang Tao and the “Boy Group 101” director: Wang Tao helps the director find replacement candidates, despite their limited personal relationship.
• Qi Man and the police: Qi Man is exposed through the investigation into Nightdream Bar and the testimony of arrested suspects.
• Qi Man’s supporters and Chu Xiyue’s antis: They attempt to redirect blame toward Chu Xiyue, but Assistant Li counters them with sarcastic and forceful replies.
• Assistant Li and Cheng Heyun: Assistant Li subtly brings the online attacks to Cheng Heyun’s attention, prompting Cheng Heyun to take action.
• Cheng Heyun and Chu Xiyue: Although Chu Xiyue is unaware of it, Cheng Heyun uses his influence to shield her from online harassment.
• Wang Tao and Li Fan’er: Wang Tao recommends Li Fan’er for the vacant instructor position, allowing her to join “Boy Group 101” and reconnect with Chu Xiyue.

Chapter Summary: “Contestant’s First Scoop”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chu Xiyue reunites with Li Fan’er, whose affectionate hug leaves Chu unexpectedly flustered. Afterward, they separate to handle makeup, evaluate contestants, and provide feedback.
• Chu’s new manager informs her that the Sea City Tax Bureau and Public Security Bureau want her to film public-service announcements about tax compliance and legal education. Chu accepts, recognizing the career benefits of building official connections.
• The PSAs are filmed and released quickly. Fans of disgraced entertainers are frustrated that Chu now appears to have official backing, especially since she previously reported Wen Yan, Ning Shuixin, and BK Entertainment for tax evasion.
• Online speculation grows that Chu was also the anonymous citizen who reported Qi Man’s drug trafficking. Netizens jokingly—and increasingly convincingly—describe her as an undercover agent in the entertainment industry because so many people connected to her have been exposed.
• Chu is baffled by the rumor, while the system points out that her actions are practically indistinguishable from those of an undercover operative.
• A week after the second evaluation, Boy Group 101 prepares for its first public performance. Chu spends most of her time coaching her class and following the contestants’ gossip.
• To promote the edited show, the production team organizes a pre-release Truth or Dare game featuring ten contestants. Because the other mentors are unavailable, Chu becomes the host.
• The game combines athletic challenges with questions gathered from viewers. Winners receive more screen time, while losing contestants must answer potentially revealing questions.
• In the first challenge, a three-legged race, Wen Lun and Zhang Siran come in last. Chu draws Wen Lun’s question: why he joined the show.
• Wen Lun earnestly claims he entered the entertainment industry to fulfill his aunt’s youthful dream. The system reveals that Wen Lun has believed a false story told by his aunt, Li Yusheng, prompting Chu to press for more details.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue continues to gain professional credibility and official support. Her willingness to work with government agencies strengthens her public image and counters attacks from rival fandoms.
• Chu’s hidden enthusiasm for gossip contrasts with her composed public persona. She eagerly anticipates the Truth or Dare game because it may expose secrets.
• Li Fan’er is shown as warm and physically affectionate, while Chu reacts with unusual shyness and embarrassment.
• Wen Lun appears naïve, dramatic, and eager to honor his family. His confidence is undermined by the revelation that his aunt’s explanation may be fabricated.
• The system remains Chu’s sarcastic gossip partner, quickly identifying lies and adding humorous commentary to contestants’ revelations.

Significant Themes

• Public reputation versus private truth: Chu’s official PSA work gives her legitimacy, while online gossip attempts to reinterpret her past actions.
• Gossip as power: Rumors surrounding Chu and the contestants reveal how entertainment-industry narratives can shape public perception.
• Exposure and scandal: The chapter reinforces the talent show’s atmosphere of hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered.
• Naivety and manipulation: Wen Lun’s belief in his aunt’s story suggests that contestants may be acting on incomplete or deliberately distorted information.
• Professional advancement through unexpected means: Chu’s involvement with government campaigns demonstrates how her past actions, including reporting wrongdoing, now benefit her career.

Character Interactions

• Chu and Li Fan’er share a friendly reunion, though Chu is embarrassed by Li’s affectionate hug.
• Chu works with her manager to decide whether to accept the government PSA opportunity.
• Online fans debate Chu’s connection to the authorities and speculate about her role in exposing criminal or unethical figures.
• Chu and the system exchange contrasting reactions: Chu is outwardly dignified but inwardly curious, while the system openly mocks Wen Lun.
• During the game, Chu hosts the contestants and questions Wen Lun after his team loses, setting up the chapter’s main scoop about his aunt’s misleading story.

Chapter Summary

• Wen Lun’s unexpected idol-show origin: After watching an old film starring Li Yusheng and mistakenly believing she had been forced to retire from acting by the Cheng family, Wen Lun asked whether she had any unrealized dreams. Pressured to answer, Li Yusheng invented a story about once wanting to join a girl group. Wen Lun believed her and, despite his privileged upbringing, signed up for Boy Group 101. His musical training and decent singing helped him pass the auditions. Chu Xiyue finds his gullibility and attention-seeking behavior absurd but entirely characteristic.
• Introduction of Zhang Siran: Zhang Siran, Wen Lun’s teammate, is introduced as the show’s most popular contestant. Before entering the entertainment industry, he had been a major internet celebrity with hundreds of thousands of followers on Weibo and roughly a million across all platforms.
• The “ideal type” question: Chu Xiyue draws a provocative fan question asking Zhang Siran about his ideal type. He gives a safe, carefully polished answer, describing a long-haired, gentle, cheerful, smiling girl and claiming he has never dated. Chu Xiyue recognizes this as the kind of vague response designed to avoid dating scandals and appeal to many fans.
• The system exposes Zhang Siran’s secrets: The system reveals that Zhang Siran is lying. He began dating at fourteen, has had six previous girlfriends, and is currently in his seventh relationship. His girlfriends have varied widely in personality and appearance, contradicting his stated “ideal type.”
• Zhang Siran’s cruel past relationship: The system further reveals that Zhang Siran’s former high-school girlfriend became pregnant while he was preparing to join the show. Although he had previously promised to marry her, he persuaded her to get an abortion by claiming the child would interfere with her education and his public career. Afterward, he deliberately grew distant and manipulated her into initiating the breakup. He soon began dating another girl—who was also one of his fans.
• Character developments and interactions: Wen Lun’s naïve, impulsive personality is highlighted through his misunderstanding of Li Yusheng’s fabricated dream. Chu Xiyue and Wen Lun share a silent moment of mutual recognition about each other’s foolishness. Chu Xiyue initially views Zhang Siran favorably because of his attractive, honest-looking appearance, but the system’s revelations transform her opinion, leaving her suspicious and disgusted.
• Themes: The chapter explores the contrast between public image and private reality, the manufactured nature of idol personas, fan expectations, romantic secrecy in the entertainment industry, and the dangers of judging people by appearance. It also emphasizes how gossip and hidden information expose hypocrisy beneath seemingly innocent behavior.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chu Xiyue reacts angrily upon learning that Zhang Siran, despite being a manipulative womanizer, will eventually debut. The system reassures her that his image will collapse shortly after debut when his ex-girlfriends expose him, forcing him out of the group and entertainment industry.
• Her anger is intensified by memories of a past idol scandal. As a young fan, Chu Xiyue once spent time and money voting for a celebrity who was later exposed for sleeping with fans, juggling multiple girlfriends, and badmouthing teammates. This experience makes her sympathetic toward the current talent show’s fans and convinced that idols with terrible private morals should never debut.
• The ongoing variety-game segment continues:
  • In the archery round, Wen Lun’s skill gives his team a commanding lead.
  • Contestants answer questions about their dreams and confidence in debuting, producing amusing exchanges.
  • Chu Xiyue’s smile attracts the attention of several inexperienced male trainees.
  • In the third round, “Draw and Guess,” He Fuzhou and Dai Wei’s poorly coordinated team finishes last.
• Chu Xiyue questions Dai Wei about his favorite food. He enthusiastically answers “hot pot,” then explains that he avoids spicy food to protect his singing voice. Chu Xiyue privately doubts that his singing can worsen but encourages him anyway.
• She then asks He Fuzhou why he left a company in Han and returned home to compete on the show. The chapter ends as he prepares to answer.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue: Her past betrayal as a fan explains her intense dislike of fraudulent idols and her concern for the audience. She remains sharp, sarcastic, and cautious, particularly regarding romance and wealthy heiresses being exploited by gold-diggers. Although she is briefly attracted to a younger trainee’s innocent appearance, she rejects the possibility of dating him because she wants an older, emotionally mature partner from a comparable family background.
• Zhang Siran: He senses Chu Xiyue’s hostility but does not understand its source. The system reveals that his future career will end after his private misconduct is exposed.
• Wen Lun: Demonstrates strong archery skills and helps his team take a substantial lead.
• Dai Wei: Despite poor singing ability, he remains memorable because of his handsome appearance and comic personality. His dream of improving as a singer is treated with amused but reluctant encouragement.
• He Fuzhou: Is established as one of the show’s strongest and most likely debut candidates. With three years of training, substantial popularity, and near-debut experience in Han, he appears highly prepared and potentially advantaged over the other contestants.
• Cheng Heyun: The system points out that he fits nearly all of Chu Xiyue’s stated romantic preferences—older, wealthy, gentle, considerate, and socially well-matched—causing her to briefly acknowledge that he could be a possibility.

Significant Themes

• The danger of deceptive public images: The chapter contrasts idols’ polished appearances with their hidden misconduct and emphasizes the harm scandals cause to fans.
• Fan investment and betrayal: Chu Xiyue’s personal experience shows how deeply fans can be affected when someone they supported turns out to be morally corrupt.
• Caution in romance and class relationships: Chu Xiyue worries about emotional exploitation and gold-digging, reflecting her awareness of the risks faced by wealthy women.
• Talent versus entertainment value: Dai Wei lacks technical ability but remains popular because of his looks and humor, while He Fuzhou represents genuine, well-rounded talent.
• Comedy amid competition: The variety-game format creates playful interactions and lighthearted moments despite the contestants’ serious struggle for debut positions.

Character Interactions

• The system acts as Chu Xiyue’s gossip-loving confidant, commenting on Zhang Siran’s future downfall and suggesting possible romantic candidates.
• Chu Xiyue and the system discuss a younger trainee’s apparent crush on her, as well as her compatibility with Cheng Heyun.
• Chu Xiyue interacts humorously with Dai Wei, teasing him internally about his singing while encouraging his ambitions aloud.
• The trainees’ amusing answers and performances entertain Chu Xiyue, while her beauty causes several boys to blush.
• The chapter sets up a more serious exchange between Chu Xiyue and He Fuzhou concerning his decision to leave his former company and return to compete.

Chapter Summary: “A Gambling Addict Meets a Ladybug”

Key Plot Points and Events

• During filming, He Fuzhou is asked why he returned from abroad. He gives a sentimental explanation about missing his homeland and wanting to be closer to his fans, earning applause from those around him.
• Chu Xiyue privately asks the system about him. The system reveals that, in the original story, He Fuzhou had debuted successfully but later suffered a major scandal.
• His public claim that he voluntarily returned home was false. He had actually been expelled from a Korean entertainment company after secretly contacting fans and accepting expensive gifts from them.
• After returning to China, He Fuzhou signed with Azure Sea Entertainment, which concealed his past because the company needed new talent after several of its artists had been disgraced.
• Despite his previous punishment, He Fuzhou continued privately interacting with fans. He became involved with a fan known as “Little Moon,” who pretended to be a wealthy heiress but was actually embezzling money from fan support funds.
• Little Moon gained his trust by buying him costly gifts. When they met in person, He Fuzhou slept with her on their first meeting.
• The next morning, Little Moon blackmailed him with a recording of their encounter and demanded five million yuan. He Fuzhou paid her using all his savings.
• Although Little Moon deleted the original video, her phone’s automatic cloud backup preserved it. She accidentally sent the uncensored recording to a group chat containing both genuine and rival fans. He Fuzhou’s face was clearly visible, leading to his public disgrace and the collapse of his career.
• After filming ends, Chu Xiyue goes out alone to eat at a high-quality beef hotpot restaurant. While preparing to pay, she unexpectedly encounters someone she knows: Cheng Heyun.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue: Demonstrates increasing familiarity with the entertainment industry’s hidden scandals and remains observant of people who may become important in the future. She reacts with amusement and blunt judgment to He Fuzhou’s downfall, while also enjoying her independent life and exploring local food.
• He Fuzhou: Is revealed to be deceptive, sexually reckless, and unable to learn from past mistakes. His polished public image contrasts sharply with his history of exploiting fan relationships and hiding misconduct.
• Little Moon: Appears generous and devoted online but is actually manipulative and financially corrupt. Her attempt to blackmail He Fuzhou ultimately backfires because of her careless cloud backup mistake.
• The System: Acts as Chu Xiyue’s source of insider knowledge and enthusiastically narrates the scandal, almost like a gossip partner.

Significant Themes

• The contrast between public image and private reality: He Fuzhou presents himself as patriotic and sincere, but his actual return is tied to expulsion and concealed misconduct.
• Corruption and exploitation in fandom: Both He Fuzhou and Little Moon abuse fan relationships—he pursues fans for personal gratification, while she steals fan funds and uses gifts to manipulate him.
• Consequences of careless behavior: He Fuzhou’s repeated misconduct and Little Moon’s failure to account for cloud backups eventually expose them.
• Fate and foreknowledge: Chu Xiyue’s knowledge of the original storyline allows her to recognize dangerous figures and anticipate their possible futures.
• Dark entertainment-industry realities: The chapter highlights hidden contracts, scandal cover-ups, fan manipulation, blackmail, and the fragility of celebrity reputations.

Character Interactions

• He Fuzhou interacts with the hosts and other participants while presenting a carefully crafted public explanation for his return.
• Chu Xiyue and the system discuss He Fuzhou’s past, with Chu questioning the details and the system providing increasingly scandalous revelations.
• He Fuzhou and Little Moon’s supposedly close fan-idol relationship becomes a manipulative sexual and financial entanglement.
• Chu Xiyue later encounters Cheng Heyun at the hotpot restaurant, setting up the next development.

Chapter 116 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Chu Xiyue encounters Cheng Heyun at a hot pot restaurant, where he is meeting a client with his assistant.
• After Chu Xiyue’s group leaves, she learns that Cheng Heyun has already paid their bill. She thanks him through WeChat, and he offers her a ride home.
• Cheng Heyun waits for her at the restaurant entrance and instructs Assistant Li to drive them to Wanzhou Junting.
• During the drive, the system reveals that Xiao Lin’an is attempting to borrow one million from Wen Lun. Xiao Lin’an’s creditors have threatened to expose his past dealings unless he repays them, so he targets the wealthy and gullible Wen Lun.
• Xiao Lin’an claims he needs the money to release an album. Wen Lun believes him and is even willing to provide more money if necessary.
• Chu Xiyue warns Cheng Heyun, Wen Lun’s cousin, about the scam. Cheng Heyun immediately contacts the bank and restricts Wen Lun’s large transfers.
• When Wen Lun tries to transfer money to Xiao Lin’an, the transaction fails. Xiao Lin’an becomes impatient and tells Wen Lun to investigate the problem, unaware that Cheng Heyun has blocked the transfer.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue: Continues to admire Cheng Heyun’s appearance, composure, and status. She remains unaware of his romantic interest but acts responsibly by warning him about Xiao Lin’an’s scheme.
• Cheng Heyun: Shows special consideration toward Chu Xiyue by paying for her meal and offering her a ride. His private smile after receiving her playful message reveals genuine warmth, contrasting with the distant politeness he displays toward others. He also demonstrates decisiveness and protectiveness by immediately preventing Wen Lun from being defrauded.
• Wen Lun: Is portrayed as wealthy but extremely naïve and trusting, making him an easy target for Xiao Lin’an.
• Xiao Lin’an: Reveals his desperation and manipulative nature by inventing an album project to obtain money from Wen Lun.
• Assistant Li and the system: Both recognize the romantic tension between Chu Xiyue and Cheng Heyun and privately “ship” the pair, while Chu Xiyue remains oblivious.

Significant Themes

• Unrecognized romantic affection: Cheng Heyun’s special treatment, private warmth, and attentiveness suggest feelings for Chu Xiyue that she does not understand.
• Appearance versus true emotion: Cheng Heyun’s courteous smile in public is detached, while his reaction to Chu Xiyue’s message is sincere and affectionate.
• Trust and manipulation: Wen Lun’s gullibility allows Xiao Lin’an to exploit him, highlighting how wealth does not protect someone from deception.
• Protection and intervention: Chu Xiyue alerts Cheng Heyun, and he quietly resolves the danger by restricting Wen Lun’s finances rather than confronting Xiao Lin’an directly.

Character Interactions

• Cheng Heyun and Chu Xiyue exchange playful messages after he pays her bill, establishing a comfortable and increasingly intimate dynamic.
• Their car ride is quiet but harmonious, showing that they can enjoy each other’s company without needing constant conversation.
• Chu Xiyue and Cheng Heyun discuss Wen Lun’s impending scam, strengthening their trust.
• Xiao Lin’an pressures Wen Lun for money, while Cheng Heyun’s intervention causes the attempted transfer to fail and disrupts Xiao Lin’an’s plan.

Chapter Summary: Xiao Lin’an’s Downfall

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Cheng Heyun restricts Wen Lun’s high-spending privileges, Xiao Lin’an loses access to Wen Lun as a potential source of money.
• Xiao Lin’an then targets Wei Susheng, secretly photographing him with an escort and threatening to expose the picture unless Wei pays him three million.
• Wei appears to comply and transfers the money, but secretly records Xiao Lin’an’s extortion. Once Xiao deletes the incriminating photo, Wei reports him to the police.
• Because Xiao has a prior criminal record, including crimes committed abroad and a history of looting, the evidence is enough for the police to arrest him that night.
• Paparazzo Wu Taotao witnesses police vehicles at the recording base and photographs Xiao being taken away. Unable to obtain official information, she contacts Chu Xiyue.
• Wu exchanges celebrity gossip for information. Chu reveals that Xiao was arrested for extorting Wei and suggests that Wu investigate the list of people deported from Country X.
• In return, Wu tells Chu about a famous Best Actress whose secret marriage ended after her husband accumulated heavy debts. The actress initially lost custody of their son but later regained it after discovering that her ex-husband intended to abandon the child for another wealthy woman.

Character Developments

• Xiao Lin’an: His increasingly desperate attempts to obtain money reveal his greed, recklessness, and willingness to blackmail others. His criminal past and poor judgment finally lead to his arrest and likely imprisonment.
• Wei Susheng: Demonstrates that his seemingly compliant attitude masks a calculating and vindictive nature. He cleverly gathers evidence before turning Xiao over to the police.
• Chu Xiyue: Continues to enjoy exposing Xiao’s schemes and shows her talent for exchanging information. She remains observant and pragmatic, while also indulging her curiosity about entertainment-industry scandals.
• Wu Taotao: Acts on instinct as a professional paparazzo, successfully identifying Xiao’s arrest and finding a way to obtain the story despite lacking official sources.
• Wen Lun and Cheng Heyun: Cheng’s intervention prevents Wen Lun from being exploited, while Wen’s financial dependence and vulnerability make him an easy target for Xiao.

Significant Themes

• Greed and self-destruction: Xiao’s greed drives him from attempted fraud to extortion, ultimately causing his downfall.
• Criminals turning against one another: Wei’s own questionable behavior does not prevent him from outmaneuvering Xiao; the chapter humorously presents them as natural enemies.
• Justice through evidence: Wei’s secret recording ensures that Xiao cannot escape the consequences of his threats.
• The power of information: Gossip, surveillance, leaked details, and personal connections drive both the police case and Wu’s investigation.
• Transactional relationships: Characters frequently exchange money, favors, or secrets, while the Best Actress subplot emphasizes how financial inequality can distort marriage and family responsibilities.

Character Interactions

• Xiao Lin’an and Wen Lun: Xiao attempts to exploit Wen financially, but Cheng Heyun’s restriction of Wen’s card prevents him from succeeding.
• Xiao Lin’an and Wei Susheng: Their confrontation escalates from blackmail to a police case, with Wei turning Xiao’s threat against him.
• Chu Xiyue and Wu Taotao: They trade gossip for insider information, establishing a mutually beneficial relationship based on curiosity and usefulness.
• Chu Xiyue and the system: The system informs Chu of Xiao’s latest schemes, and Chu reacts enthusiastically to the unfolding scandal.
• The Best Actress and her ex-husband: Their backstory illustrates betrayal, financial irresponsibility, unequal burdens, and the actress’s eventual recovery of custody of her son.

Chapter Summary

• Wu Taotao exposes Xiao Lin’an: After receiving information from Chu Xiyue and conducting an overnight investigation, Wu Taotao discovers that Xiao Lin’an’s respectable public image hides a history of compulsive gambling. He had gambled overseas, been imprisoned for robbery, and allegedly extorted a colleague to pay his debts. Wu verifies the claims through foreign deportation records, news reports, casino photographs, and a clear image of Xiao being taken away in handcuffs.
• The scandal goes viral: Wu posts the evidence on Weibo, accusing Xiao of lying about retiring abroad for further study when he had actually been imprisoned overseas. The revelations rapidly dominate the trending searches, with hashtags about Xiao’s arrest, gambling addiction, robbery conviction, and collapse as a mentor on Boy Group 101. Netizens debate the authenticity of the evidence, though many confirm that the reports and photographs are genuine. They are especially curious about the colleague Xiao extorted.
• Further gossip involving Wei Susheng: Wu suspects she understands the leverage Xiao used against Wei Susheng. She has also collected potentially explosive material about Wei by following him, but deliberately holds it back. She plans to release it after Xiao’s scandal loses momentum, creating another wave of public attention.
• Impact on the production team: The director of Boy Group 101 is overwhelmed because Xiao’s downfall follows closely after Qi Man’s earlier scandal. He feels cursed by the repeated disasters surrounding the show. Director Wang, who already associates Chu Xiyue with chaos, takes quiet satisfaction in seeing the production suffer again.
• The show continues: Despite Xiao’s scandal, the production team quickly finds a replacement guest. The first public performance then takes place: contestants form ten-person teams, draw songs, compete against one another, and are judged by live audience votes. After more than half a month of livestream filming, the program has begun gaining popularity, and several contestants’ follower counts have risen dramatically. The edited version of the show is also scheduled to launch online.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Chu Xiyue enjoys the steady stream of gossip and acts as Wu Taotao’s source of information, becoming increasingly interested in the scandals surrounding people connected to the entertainment industry.
• Wu Taotao demonstrates strong investigative and journalistic instincts. She carefully verifies Xiao’s history, recognizes the value of the evidence, and strategically controls the timing of future revelations.
• Xiao Lin’an is revealed to be the opposite of his respectable public persona: a serious gambler whose debts led to criminal behavior and imprisonment.
• Wei Susheng becomes the subject of Wu’s next investigation, with hints that his relationship with Xiao involved compromising information or blackmail.
• The director of Boy Group 101 becomes increasingly anxious as repeated scandals threaten the show, while Director Wang interprets the chaos as further proof that Chu Xiyue brings trouble wherever she goes.

Significant Themes

• The collapse of celebrity images: Xiao’s downfall shows how easily a carefully maintained respectable persona can be destroyed by hidden misconduct.
• Investigative truth versus public reputation: Wu uses documentary evidence and foreign records to challenge the entertainment industry’s ability to suppress scandals.
• Gossip as power and strategy: Information is not merely entertainment; controlling when and how it is released allows Wu to manipulate public attention.
• Entertainment-industry chaos: The scandals surrounding Boy Group 101 highlight the instability and hypocrisy behind reality-show production.
• Public fascination with downfall: Netizens treat celebrity scandals as collective entertainment, eagerly abandoning work to follow each new revelation.

Chapter Summary:

Liu Ziyu’s Suspicion

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Fuzhou is established as the strongest and most popular contestant, with over one million Weibo followers. He and Zhang Siran have already secured sponsorship and endorsement opportunities.
• During the first public performance, the system alerts Chu Xiyue that Liu Ziyu—the girl sitting in the audience wearing Zhang Siran’s support shirt—is secretly Zhang Siran’s current girlfriend.
• The system reveals that Liu Ziyu is an eighteen-year-old wealthy heiress who had supported Zhang Siran online for two years. Zhang Siran began pursuing her because her wealth and influence could help increase his popularity and votes, even though he was still involved with another girlfriend.
• Zhang Siran’s team performs first. Liu Ziyu enthusiastically cheers for him, and Zhang Siran deliberately smiles at her from the stage, exciting both Liu Ziyu and the surrounding fans.
• Chu Xiyue judges the performances fairly, refusing to penalize Zhang Siran’s team solely because of his personal character. She recognizes that the entire team worked hard, though she is particularly impressed by the opposing team’s classical-dance-trained performer.
• The livestream only shows the mentors’ reactions rather than the stage, prompting viewers to analyze their expressions. Fans also notice that Chu Xiyue repeatedly looks toward the audience, unaware that she is observing Liu Ziyu.
• Across the five performance rounds, the teams led by He Fuzhou, Zhang Siran, and Wen Lun stand out. Wen Lun, previously unknown, has gained fans through his livestreams, appearance, and musical ability.
• Final rankings place He Fuzhou’s team first, Zhang Siran’s second, and Wen Lun’s third.
• After filming ends, a camera is accidentally tilted toward a secluded side entrance. The remaining livestream viewers unexpectedly witness Chu Xiyue acting furtively and confronting a girl in a baseball cap, later revealed to be Liu Ziyu.
• The two women speak privately for several minutes. Liu Ziyu appears increasingly agitated, but the audience cannot hear their conversation, creating suspense about what Chu Xiyue has told her.

Character Developments

• Chu Xiyue: Demonstrates professional fairness as a judge while secretly investigating Zhang Siran’s relationship with Liu Ziyu. Her covert behavior suggests she intends to expose or warn Liu Ziyu about Zhang Siran.
• Zhang Siran: Is portrayed as manipulative and opportunistic. He pursues Liu Ziyu primarily for financial and promotional advantages, while apparently overlapping relationships and using her devotion to advance his career.
• Liu Ziyu: Appears deeply infatuated with and devoted to Zhang Siran, enthusiastically supporting him in public. Her agitation after speaking with Chu Xiyue hints that she may be learning disturbing information about him.
• He Fuzhou: Maintains his position as the dominant contestant by leading the highest-ranked team.
• Wen Lun: Gains recognition through his talent and growing popularity, ranking third despite beginning the show with little public attention.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and exploitation: Zhang Siran treats Liu Ziyu’s affection and wealth as tools for career advancement.
• Public image versus private reality: Zhang Siran appears charming and affectionate onstage, while his private behavior is calculating and dishonest.
• Fairness and professional integrity: Chu Xiyue separates her personal knowledge of Zhang Siran’s wrongdoing from her responsibility to judge performances objectively.
• The power of hidden information: The audience, Liu Ziyu, and the contestants all possess incomplete knowledge, while Chu Xiyue and the system understand the concealed relationship.
• Celebrity culture and manufactured popularity: Sponsorships, fan support, voting manipulation, and livestream reactions reveal how entertainment success can be influenced beyond genuine talent.

Character Interactions

• Zhang Siran and Liu Ziyu: Liu Ziyu openly cheers for him, and he responds with a calculated smile that strengthens her emotional attachment.
• Chu Xiyue and the contestants: She evaluates their performances impartially, acknowledging both team effort and individual talent.
• Chu Xiyue and Liu Ziyu: After the competition, Chu Xiyue secretly confronts Liu Ziyu near a side entrance. Their unheard conversation ends with Liu Ziyu visibly distressed, setting up the chapter’s central mystery and likely revelation.

Chapter Summary

Plot and Key Events

• During the live program, Chu Xiyue intercepts Liu Ziyu, who has been brought backstage by Zhang Siran’s staff under the pretense of being his younger sister.
• Chu reveals that Zhang Siran is not the innocent, inexperienced man Liu believes him to be. He has allegedly dated six women before her, often overlapping relationships, and habitually tells each new girlfriend that she is his “first love.”
• Liu initially denies being his girlfriend and angrily accuses Chu of spreading rumors. However, Chu provides detailed information about Zhang’s former girlfriends, convincing Liu that the claims may be genuine.
• Chu leaves, telling Liu to investigate the truth herself. Troubled, Liu ignores Zhang’s message and postpones their meeting.
• As Liu reflects on their relationship, she remembers being Zhang’s longtime fan, gradually falling in love with him after he pursued her, and agreeing to keep their relationship secret to protect his budding entertainment career.
• She begins questioning whether Zhang truly loves her or whether she has also been deceived. Because she has industry connections, she is capable of verifying Chu’s allegations.
• Meanwhile, the audience sees Liu’s distressed reaction but cannot hear the conversation, intensifying their curiosity and gossip.

Character Development

• Chu Xiyue acts decisively and strategically. She uses the system’s warning to confront Liu privately, presenting herself as someone protecting an innocent woman from a manipulative “scumbag.” Her calmness contrasts with Liu’s emotional reaction.
• Liu Ziyu shifts from confident devotion to suspicion and uncertainty. Her image of Zhang as a sincere first love begins to collapse, though she remains determined to investigate rather than blindly accept Chu’s claims.
• Zhang Siran is portrayed indirectly as charming but potentially dishonest and serially unfaithful. His promises about making Liu public after two years now appear manipulative or unreliable.

Themes

• Deception and betrayal: Zhang’s repeated “first love” claim and secret relationships suggest a pattern of emotional manipulation.
• The gap between public image and private behavior: Zhang is admired as a rising celebrity, while his personal conduct may be unethical.
• Trust versus evidence: Liu must decide whether to trust her boyfriend, Chu’s warning, or her own investigation.
• Sacrifice in unequal relationships: Liu accepts secrecy and emotional deprivation because she believes she is supporting Zhang’s career, raising questions about whether her sacrifices are reciprocated.
• Female solidarity and confrontation: Chu intervenes to warn another woman rather than allowing Zhang’s alleged exploitation to continue.

Character Interactions

• Chu and Liu’s backstage exchange is the chapter’s central interaction: Chu remains composed and factual, while Liu moves from surprise, to denial and anger, to doubt.
• Liu’s unseen relationship with Zhang is explored through her memories, especially his confession, promises, and requests for secrecy.
• The audience’s reaction creates an additional layer: they witness the emotional aftermath but are excluded from the private conversation, fueling speculation about what Chu told Liu.