Chapter 271 - Eros' Substitute
"Iris, what are you saying? You have your own performance to worry about," Tang Yiyi told her.
"Don't worry about it, Elder Sister Yiyi. My performance will not be until the latter half of the show," Iris reassured her manager. "Besides, they're my juniors. I can help them so why not let me?"
It was Night who spoke up from the band first. He looked at Iris straight in the eyes. "We've never played together before. And we don't have time to practice now."
"I can coordinate with you. I've listened to your music in the last few days. I know how to play your songs." Then she turned to Eros. "Can you let me borrow your guitar? If not, I can borrow one from the show."
"Of course you can borrow my guitar," Eros replied with his mesmerizing voice. "But I use a left-handed guitar..."
"No problem. I can use either right-handed or left-handed."
"Wow, goddess! For real? You're gonna play with us? I'm so stoked!" Thunder was almost bouncing in his excitement.
"Ahaha! This is great! I don't even care anymore if we mess up our performance tonight. Just having Senior Iris perform together on the same stage tonight will guarantee that we're gonna be the talk of the town afterwards." Blaze turned to their manager. "Big Sis Yiyi, let us do this! We want to do this!"
"You!" Tang Yiyi sighed, massaging her temples.
In the end, the manager agreed to the idea. She trusted Iris but not so much the young men. After asking Iris to look out for her juniors, Tang Yiyi left to bring Eros to the hospital for treatment.
Iris returned to her dressing room to change into one of her back-up dresses. She also asked her hair stylist and make-up artist to make some changes in her appearance. After a few minutes, a staff member called Iris to stand-by backstage with the band members.
Jin Liwei walked beside her and she could feel that something was bothering him. He looked stiff and although most of his face was covered by a mask and shades, she knew that his expression looked unpleasant.
"What is it?" She asked him in a whisper.
He hesitated before saying, "Nothing. Don't worry about me. Just do your best on the stage out there. I'll be watching and waiting for you backstage. I know you're going to be amazing, love."
"Okay. Watch me, darling."
"En."
She met up with Blaze, Night and Thunder who were already on stand-by.
The young men's eyes lit up when they saw her, looking at her up and down with appreciation. But when they tried to stand closer to her, they felt a cold and dangerous aura from the tall bodyguard beside her. They instinctively stepped back.
The three young men chatted with each other instead, but as their performance drew nearer by the second, they began to feel nervous. Fortunately, seeing Iris looking unfazed, they were somewhat able to force themselves to calm down.
###
On the stage, the male and female hosts smiled at the camera in front of them when they received the signal from the director that the commercials just ended.
"Welcome back to 'MusicFest Tonight'!" They said together.
"Are you ready for the next performance?" The male host asked the audience.
Audience: "Yes!"
"Our next performers are a rock band that is gaining attention because all of their members are very good-looking—"
The female host couldn't finish her introduction because a group of teenage girls and young women began screaming.
"Uwah! Is it Pandemonium? Finally! It's the turn of my four husbands!"
"Eros, my love! I can't wait to see you!"
"Blaze, I love you!"
"I offer myself to you, Night! You can do whatever you want to me!"
"Thunder, come to Momma!"
The male and female hosts looked at each other and smiled wryly. Fortunately, they were able to calm the overexcited fangirls to a certain degree.
"Yes, you got it right. Our next performance will be by the rock band, Pandemonium!" The female host continued.
Excited screaming once again.
"However, there seems to be some sort of trouble backstage," the male host informed them. "The lead guitarist, Eros, got injured earlier and had to be taken to the hospital for treatment."
"What?! My Eros is injured?! What happened?!"
The fangirls started freaking out. Even the male fans of the rock band expressed their concern.
The hosts didn't give any additional details about Eros' injury as the show was in a tight time schedule. They hurried to finish the introduction.
Female host: "Despite the accident, Pandemonium still showed their desire to perform tonight. How admirable! Very professional!"
Male host: "Indeed. Fortunately, the band managed to get a lead guitarist to substitute for Eros..."
"Who cares about the substitute? We only want Eros!"
"Yeah! Eros is the only lead guitarist that we'll accept for Pandemonium!"
The fans were starting to get unruly, expressing their dissatisfaction at the current situation. They wanted to know more about what happened to Eros. They also couldn't accept that the band decided to perform with another person.
The hosts pretended not to hear the complaints and continued.
Female host: "I think that all of you will be so shocked once you see who the band got to substitute for Eros."
Male host: "I agree. When I saw the name, I thought that it was a misprint at first. To be honest, I'm excited myself to see this person play lead guitar in a rock band. I just can't imagine it!"
Female host: "Exactly! So without further ado, please welcome our next performers, the rock band Pandemonium—"
Male host: "And the one and only Iris Long!"
"Ah?"
The audience stopped, all looking confused. Did they hear it correctly? Iris Long was playing lead guitar in a rock band? What in the world?
Even the Black Stars were taken aback.
The fans of Pandemonium became even more unruly.
"What the hell? Why is Iris substituting for Eros? Can she even play lead guitar? This is ridiculous!"
"Damn! Is she using our boys to gain publicity for her comeback? I object! She should just mind her own business!"
"Maybe the lead guitar part is already prerecorded and she'll just stand there pretending to play."
Hearing the insults to their boss, the Black Stars felt offended. They started quarreling with the Pandemonium fans.
The lights dimmed for a few seconds before the spotlight hit the centre of the stage.
Blaze stood at the very front, looking very dashing in front of the mic stand. Night looked as dangerously handsome as ever with his bass guitar. The ever smiling Thunder looked cute as always as he bounced on his seat in excitement behind the drums.
Then everyone saw Iris. Her elegant off-shoulder long black dress with thigh-high slit on one side contrasted with the band member's leather, spikes, metal and biker outfits. She should've looked out of place with her sophisticated outfit, but her high and sleek ponytail, bold cat eyeliner and blood-red lipstick successfully made her look as if she belonged.
That was until the fans recognized the guitar in her arms.
"What the f*ck?! That's Eros' guitar! I can't accept this!"
"What is she thinking? Does she think that everyone can play left-handed guitars just like that? She must be dreaming!"
Iris swept her eyes across the rowdy fans. Raising an eyebrow at them, her hands moved. Her fingers were quick like lightning yet smooth like fluid, as she produced an eruptive tune made up of a complicated chord progression. It was swift, sharp, heavy and electrically AWESOME!
Then she stopped.
One second. Two seconds. Three seconds.
Loud applause and screaming.
The Black Stars went crazy with delight. The Pandemonium fans went crazy with shock. The rest of the audience was captivated. Everyone asked for more.
Iris looked at the three band members and nodded. Even the three looked shocked but quickly recovered. Excitement glittered in their eyes as they looked at Iris in a new light.
Blaze spoke to the mic in a low voice. "My fellow souls, both living and lost, are you ready to experience a 'Nightmare'?"
The drummer, Thunder, tapped his sticks. "Three, two, one!"
And the song began.
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Chapter 272 - Nightmare
Iris started off the song, playing a dark opening melody with the lead guitar. The Pandemonium fans got excited because it sounded exactly the same as how Eros usually played it.
The bass guitar added texture a few sequences later, followed by the slow yet penetrating rhythm of the drums.
Then Blaze began singing in a whispering voice. Pandemonium fans thought it was very sexy. His voice gradually sounded solid as the melody and rhythm became thicker and heavier.
"Here it comes
The nightmare starts
Once we close our eyes
In the dead of the night
The ghosts come out, the demons prowl
If you're not careful
They're gonna get you! Get you! Get you!
Pull you, drag you
Until your soul is all swallowed up"
The beat changed. It became faster and heavier, making the audience jump up and down, pumping their hands up and banging their heads in the air. This was also the time that Iris began to slightly change the way she played the guitar. The expert guitarists watching the live performance narrowed their eyes and began to observe her more closely. However, the other band members didn't seem to notice anything different.
Blaze's singing became stronger, almost shouting out the lyrics but still remained captivating to the ears.
"The haunting starts
Get ready now
Don't lose your way
Or you'll never see the light of day
Just hold my hand and follow me
Together we'll jump down the dark abyss"
Iris began to provide the second voice. Unlike the usual seductive singing of Eros, Iris sang in a haunting manner that the audience couldn't help but feel chills down their spines while listening. They shivered, feeling as if a goddess of death was singing close to their ears. But still they felt thrilled by the eerie yet exhilarating experience.
"Let the ghosts come out!
Let the demons prowl!
I'm not afraid 'cuz you're here with me!
Let's run, run, run
Don't ever stop, don't look back
Or you'll get all swallowed up!"
The melody and the rhythm went into overdrive. The expert guitarists watching the live performance in the audience, backstage and at home, finally noticed what sounded different in Iris' playing. At the beginning, she was just playing like how Eros usually played the guitar. She followed and coordinated with the rest of the members, but somewhere along the way, she began to take over the lead until the other band members were following her pace instead.
'A true lead guitarist,' they thought, becoming more and more impressed the longer they listened.
Blaze was already sweating as he sang with all his might. He held the mic and used his natural stage presence to make the screaming fans go even crazier.
"Let the blood-red moon be our guide
Blend in the shadows
Avoid the traps
Who's a friend? Who's a foe?
We don't know, oh no we don't
The sky can fall
The world can end
I don't care as long as you're with me
You're all I need
So just follow me
Together we'll jump down the dark abyss"
Iris walked forward to the front of the stage beside the euphoric Blaze. Then her guitar solo began. She stepped one of her foot forward, letting her long smooth leg out of her dress' thigh-high slit. Her high heels were like cold and shining daggers, matching the dangerous yet bewitching aura she was currently emitting.
The electrifying solo guitar riff instantly made the fans go wild. They shrieked like they were going insane. Both the Black Stars and the Pandemonium fans screamed Iris' name over and over again.
Blaze, Night and Thunder finally noticed the difference in quality between Iris and their band mate Eros' playing. Their eyes widened in amazement, especially after discovering that they were also playing better together with her. She used her advanced techniques to control the band's chaos, elevating the song's overall musicality to another level.
To show the extent of his amazement and to add excitement to the performance, Blaze fell down on one knee facing Iris while holding his chest.
Backstage, a certain man wearing a mask and shades unleashed a malevolent aura as he stood watching the performance live on the monitor. Jiang Ying Yue paled and moved a few steps away from the man, while Dom squawked, turned tail and ran far away. The masked man was able to control himself quickly, focusing instead on his amazing baby girl, completely erasing from his mind the existence of the three pests performing on the stage with her.
On the stage, Iris' hands and fingers began to blur as they moved swiftly on the guitar strings. She changed up the melody, adding more punch and dimension to it than the original. Her version was cleaner, crisper, more complicated and intense.
She was rocking it but still managed to look elegant. Her movements were very fluid.
Then she ended the guitar solo with a flourish, bending her back low and kicking her exposed leg. Some audience members passed out from too much excitement.
Blaze sang with even more gusto after such an electrifying guitar solo. Sweat spritzed out from him as he jumped up and down and rocked all around while singing the last parts of the song.
"It's almost here
The dawn is near
I know you're tired but stay with me
Just keep on running, don't look back
Or else this nightmare will never stop
We'll soon see the light of day
Just hold my hand and follow me!
Let's run, run, run
Until our breaths run out
Open your eyes
Look wide and see
Now we're out of the nightmare
Oh yes we're out!
Oh yeah!"
All the band members, including Iris, jumped to end the song in a jarring last beat. As soon as their feet touched the floor again, the entire studio was filled with a deafening noise.
The audience all stood up. Their thunderous applause and roaring cheers drowned the hosts' voice who were now trying to talk to Pandemonium and Iris.
"Iris! No, Boss Iris! You're so cool! Please stay with Pandemonium forever and ever! I'll become a Black Star just for you!"
"Sh*t! Is it just me or she's way cooler than Eros? Sorry, Eros my love. I love you, but Iris is just on another level!"
"Oh damn! I'm straight and have dedicated myself to my four Pandemonium husbands but I think Iris just bent me to swing the other way!"
"Hah! Look at how awesome our Boss Iris is! You were all insulting her earlier but now look at you!"
"Come, new comrades! The Black Stars welcome new people!"
"I'm a Black Star but I think Pandemonium is cool too!"
"Pandemonium fans welcome the Black Stars!"
Many Pandemonium fans became Black Stars, and some Black Stars also became Pandemonium fans at the same time. This development wasn't just a mere alliance but a sort of merging between the two fandoms.
Finally, the audience started to settle down. The interview began.
Male host: "Wow! That was so amazing! Impressive! My heart is still beating so fast!"
Female host: "Exactly! Look, I'm sweating."
The band members and Iris thanked them. The hosts asked most of the questions to Iris at first. However, she redirected the focus back to Pandemonium.
"I'm just a substitute for Eros tonight and this is Pandemonium's performance," she said. "I played this performance as part of Pandemonium."
Fortunately, the hosts understood her intention and began asking the other band members. Because of Iris' presence and their awesome performance, their interview went on longer than what was usually done with new acts.
"We would like to work more with Senior Iris in the future if we're given the chance," Blaze said.
"Yeah!" Thunder agreed.
Night nodded.
Male host: "What do you say, Iris?"
"Sure," she replied.
Her affirmative answer made the Black Stars and Pandemonium fans cheer in excitement and anticipation.
The hosts finished the interview and announced a short break for the commercials. As Iris and the band members waved at their fans and the audience before returning backstage, the female host couldn't stop herself from staring at the diamond ring on Iris' finger.
"What is it?" The male host asked his partner.
The female host shook her head. "Nothing. Maybe I'm just thinking too much."
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Chapter 273 - Punishment Or Present?
As soon as Iris and the band members reached backstage, Blaze and Thunder started cheering in triumph. Even the usually silent and brooding Night had an uncharacteristic grin on his face.
"That was out of this world, Senior Iris!" Blaze exclaimed. "We had no idea that you can play the guitar like that! It's official. You're the coolest female I know in my entire life!"
"Yeah! I think that was the best performance we ever had as a band. Goddess, you're the best!" Thunder added.
Night nodded.
Iris tilted her head to the side. "You're incomplete as a band tonight, so it doesn't count."
At the reminder of their missing band mate, Eros, the three felt guilty. They were still happy about their performance but now they realized that the feeling was incomplete because they weren't sharing it with their brother.
She smiled seeing their expressions. "Don't worry. We'll perform again when Eros is healed from his injuries. Then we'll aim to really have your best performance as a complete band."
"Really, Senior? You want to perform with us again? That's not just lip service, right?" Blaze asked.
"Yes, I want to work with you again after this," she replied.
"I'm so stoked!" Thunder pumped his fists in the air and moved to pounce on Iris for a friendly hug but someone grabbed the back of his collar and pulled him forcefully away. "What the hell, man?! What are you do—"
Although the face was covered, poor Thunder could still feel the ferocious glare behind the mask and shades.
"S-sorry, man...Ch-chill out, 'kay?"
Iris gently removed the hand gripping Thunder's collar. Then she rubbed the hand and smiled at the masked man. The dangerous aura coming from the tall man disappeared.
The three band members heaved sighs of big relief. However, they soon watched Iris and her bodyguard more carefully. The two weren't doing anything inappropriate, but they could see that Iris treated her bodyguard with affection. In turn, they noticed that the bodyguard stood too closely to her.
They had suspicions about the relationship between the two, but it wasn't any of their business. Besides, she helped them tremendously tonight. Not only that, she made their performance shine in many ways that they couldn't achieve on their own. They might be foolish at times, but they wouldn't bite the hand that fed them.
"I had a great time performing with you. I need to return to my dressing room now and get ready for my next performance," she told them.
"Of course, Senior. Thank you very much for your help tonight! We'll stay and make sure to watch your performance later and cheer for you."
She nodded and left them. The masked Jin Liwei walked beside her while Dom and Jiang Ying Yue followed behind them. On their way to the dressing room, the show's staff and the other artists greeted her warmly, and praised and congratulated her for her performance with Pandemonium.
Finally, they reached her dressing room. As soon as the door closed, Jin Liwei removed his mask, pulled Iris in his arms and kissed her deeply.
"Turn around!" Jiang Ying Yue barked at the shocked make-up artist and hair stylist. "You too, Dom!"
Dom pretended not to hear her, opening his eyes wider as if doing so could make him see the hot scene in front of him more clearly. However, Jiang Ying Yue was serious. She threw a towel over Dom's head to obstruct his view. Then she promptly turned around from the couple.
"Sorry, love. I couldn't stop myself," Jin Liwei murmured after the kiss.
He felt so much better now that his baby girl was in his arms. He knew that he had no reason to feel jealous of the three pests, but seeing them acting too familiarly with her just awakened the ugly green-eyed monster within him.
"Mmn..." Iris hugged his waist, feeling good after the kiss.
She had no idea that it was a punishment kiss because he was jealous. She thought that it was her present for performing well onstage.
"You were magnificent. So beautiful. The best," he told her while stroking her hair and kissing her head.
She smiled and hugged him tighter. "Thanks, darling."
They were interrupted by the loud sound of a ringing phone.
"Oopsie doopsie~ Sorry boss, sir boss!" Dom removed the towel from his head and answered his phone. "Hello, Big Sis Yiyi? How's Eros? Oh, that's a relief. I'm glad that he's okay. Ehehe. I know, right? Boss was so amazing! She rocked the stage! Of course, the others were great too... Okay, okay. Here's boss."
Iris released Jin Liwei's waist and spoke to her manager on the phone. Jin Liwei wore the mask again and then sat on the couch.
The make-up artist and hair stylist cautiously turned around, looking at him. They weren't able to clearly see his features earlier when he removed his mask. They were burning with curiosity, but they held their tongues. Unlike before, Iris hired her own make-up artist and hair stylist. She didn't want to depend on Bright Summit to provide her with a glam team all the time. Before she hired them, she made them sign Non-Disclosure Agreements to protect her private matters. This was the first time that these two worked with her.
They thought that the tall masked man was Iris' bodyguard but after seeing the two acting so intimate, they now concluded that the two were lovers. Their attention was also now caught by the diamond ring on Iris' finger. Their tongues wanted to wag so badly, but they stopped themselves. Not only would they get into legal trouble for violating the NDA if they gossiped, but they also didn't want to lose their jobs because Iris paid well.
After the phone call, Iris instructed the two to change her hairstyle and modify her make-up for her solo performance later. She also changed into another dress. They watched the other performances on the TV in the room while waiting for her turn.
###
"I'm dead when awake
Alive when asleep
How do I live when there is no you
Except in my dreams at night..."
The audience was completely silent as they watched Iris perform a second time tonight. She sat playing in front of the piano, wearing an elegant black and red gown. She was like a dark empress instilling sadness, loneliness and even fear to her subjects.
Her voice sounded so otherworldly in this version of "Phantom of Your Love" that many in the audience shrank into their seats. The music was beautiful and mind-blowing but it was also...frightening. It didn't sound like music from the human world but from the netherworld instead.
Iris' pale make-up and dark, smoky eyeshadow made her look like a phantom beauty. Her current performance was the total opposite of her flashy performance with Pandemonium earlier.
Usually, total silence was an indication of disinterest and boredom from the audience during a performance. This time, however, it was an indication of total focus and immersion with the music.
Even the director became too dazed that he forgot to switch cameras many times during the broadcast. However, nobody really noticed his mistakes because everyone else was also dazed like him. It was like Iris hypnotized them with her music. It was actually scary.
"Oh oh oh... Spend a thousand years
With the phantom of your...love...."
After the performance, there was pin-drop silence. The audience couldn't think clearly yet. It was only when some of the Black Stars automatically clapped their hands for their Boss Iris that the other members of the audience began clapping as well. The applause was weak and scattered at first but became stronger, louder and more enthusiastic as the people gradually recovered from their musical daze.
"Iris! Iris! Iris!"
They chanted her name. Her double comeback performances for tonight exceeded all of their expectations. She was so impressive that it was unbelievable.
Iris gave a deep curtsy bow to the audience and then to her symphony orchestra. The applause and cheers roared even more loudly.
Finally, the long-awaited interview arrived. As this wasn't a formal interview and because of Tang Yiyi's request beforehand, the hosts didn't ask Iris anything about Fan Luo or the other rumours surrounding her abrupt disappearance. They focused on her two performances tonight instead.
After Iris promoted her upcoming soundtrack album and the soon-to-be-released film "Strong Yet Broken", the hosts received signal from their earpieces that they should end the interview. The male host was about to end it, but the female host couldn't hold herself back anymore.
"Iris, I can't take my eyes off your diamond ring," she said. "It's so beautiful."
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Chapter 274 - Dare To Suppress His Baby Girl?
A soft expression appeared on Iris' face. "Thank you."
"Can you tell us more about it? I really like it and would like to buy one for myself."
"What are you doing?" Director He's voice rebuked the female host through her earpiece.
However, the host ignored the director. Something was telling her that she should pursue this line of questioning. If nothing came out of it, she would just apologize to the director later. But if she was on to something, the show would surely thank her.
"Hmm... I didn't buy it," Iris replied.
"Oh? Then where did you get it? Was it given to you as a gift?"
"Yes, something like that."
Some of the people finally understood the host's purpose for asking these questions. The camera zoomed in on Iris' diamond ring. It sparkled under the lights. The design fit Iris extremely well. The people, be it the audience, the staff, the other performers and the viewers at home, stopped talking and listened intently to the interview, not wanting to miss even a single word.
"How nice! Who gave it to you?" The female host continued to ask. "Don't tell me it's an engagement ring. Ahaha!"
The male host also chuckled, including some of the people. They treated is as a good joke.
"Yes." Iris nodded.
The laughter stopped. Eyes widened.
"Camera #6 and #10, focus on Iris' face. Make sure not to miss any of her expression," Director He instructed. He almost rubbed his hands together. He had a feeling that this would drive up the ratings of tonight's episode.
"Iris, what did you say? You're engaged?" The male host asked this time.
"Yes, I am engaged," Iris answered with a soft smile.
Gasps everywhere.
Male host: "Uh...wow. What a surprise...er...congratulations, Iris..."
Female host: "Congratulations! That's wonderful!"
Iris: "Thank you."
Female host: "Can we know who your lucky fiancé is? Is he from showbiz as well? How long have you been engaged?"
Iris: "I want to keep him to myself first. No, he's not from showbiz. Not that long ago. Only a few days before I returned to the country."
Female host: "I see. Do you love your fiancé?"
"Of course. I love him very much," Iris answered, looking directly at the camera in front of her, knowing that Jin Liwei was watching. "I love you, darling."
Many people, especially the females, squealed when they heard her public declaration of love to her mystery man.
Unfortunately, Director He had to cut the interview at that point even when everyone wanted to hear more. Iris' manager and even a Bright Summit higher-up were already calling the show requesting him to put a stop to the interview. It seemed that Iris didn't inform her management that she would be revealing her relationship status in the show tonight. They were freaking out. As a courtesy to Bright Summit and to maintain a good relationship with them, he instructed the hosts to wrap up the interview. The show took a short commercial break.
Once Iris returned backstage, Jin Liwei embraced her. Many staff and other artists saw them.
"I love you, too," he whispered.
The way she looked at him was no doubt that of a woman in love.
Seeing that some people were taking photos and recording them on video with their phones, Jin Liwei was about to threaten them but Iris stopped him.
"Don't worry. I'll take care of them. No photo or video of us will be leaked to the public before we reveal it ourselves. When we reveal you and our relationship, it will be on our own terms," she assured him.
Then she took her phone from Dom and messaged Hou Liang to hack into all the devices in the place right now, from the people's mobile phones to the show's cameras and the building's CCTVs. He was to delete any photos or videos showing her and Jin Liwei.
She would've done it herself, but the situation called for urgency because some people might upload the images or videos to the internet immediately after taking them.
Dom's phone was ringing nonstop. It was Tang Yiyi, but he didn't answer it in front of other people. Jiang Ying Yue and her male colleague went into protective mode, preventing others from getting near Iris' group, as they made their way back to her dressing room.
Jin Liwei made a quick call to his subordinates waiting outside the building to quickly gather, pick them up and escort them safely out of the building. He also called for additional back-up security from his mansion just in case the media started following them.
Once the group entered the dressing room, they locked the door. The make-up artist and hair stylist were watching the broadcast on TV. They were able to put two and two together. So the masked man must be Iris' fiancé. They hoped that he would uncover his face so that they could see what he looked like. However, they also knew that the two of them hadn't earned their new employer's trust yet to have that privilege.
Dom's phone started ringing again. He answered it.
"Hello, Big Sis Yi— Ah! My ear! Please calm down, Big Sis Yiyi. Please don't yell...."
Everyone in the room could hear the manager yelling even when the phone wasn't on speaker.
"Give me the phone," Iris said.
When she answered the phone, Tang Yiyi scolded her seriously for the first time since they started working together.
"Iris! I can't believe this! I thought that the Pandemonium boys already gave me a big headache tonight, but I didn't expect that you'll give me an even bigger headache! Why didn't you tell me you're engaged?"
"Elder Sister Yiyi, you haven't seen my ring? I was wearing it the entire time."
"Of course I did, but I thought that it was just an accessory! There are many celebrities who wear diamond rings even though they're not engaged. You're still very young, so I never expected that you're already planning on marrying! Next time, tell me these things first so that I and Bright Summit can make plans on how to handle the press! I knew something like this will happen one day. You're too straightforward!"
Iris listened to her manager calmly. She sat beside Jin Liwei, feeling comforted when he wrapped his arm around her. She rested her head on the crook between his neck and shoulder.
The short gist of Tang Yiyi's complaint was that it wasn't the right time to reveal her engagement to the public yet, especially since she just returned to the limelight. This was a critical time for her to re-establish her foothold in showbiz. However, this kind of news might become a setback to her career instead.
"Some Bright Summit higher-ups are suggesting that I persuade you to retract your words."
Iris' eyes turned cold. "Elder Sister Yiyi, may I remind you that the 'no relationship' clause in my contract was removed when I signed it? If the company pressures me about my relationship with my fiancé, I'll terminate my contract with Bright Summit. I can afford any penalty fees. Not only that, I can even sue the company for violating our contract. If I do that and I win, perhaps I won't even have to pay any penalty at all. As for retracting my words, I will never do that. I am engaged and that is final."
Jin Liwei's arm tightened around her, showing his support. He also felt warm inside as his baby girl defended him and their relationship. If Bright Summit dared to suppress his baby girl, they needed to be ready to face his wrath.
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Chapter 275 - May The Best Musician Win
Bright Summit Entertainment Company might be one of the juggernauts in showbiz, but to Jin Corporation, it was just a mere ant. Jin Liwei could squash such an ant and build another management company for the sake of his baby girl—oh right, and for his brother too. (Poor Jin Chonglin became just an afterthought to his brother because of Iris.)
If Bright Summit knew what was right for them, they wouldn't dare to suppress his baby girl.
"No! Iris, what are you saying? I said that some of them are just 'suggesting'. It's just a suggestion, okay? Nobody's pressuring anyone," Tang Yiyi reassured Iris in a hurry. "We're just worried of the backlash you might face from the fans. I already explained to you before that some fans don't take kindly to their favourite celebrities dating. They become vindictive and turn into instant haters. There were some celebrities whose careers have been destroyed because of fan backlash. I don't want something like that to happen to you."
"I see." Iris' cold eyes eased a bit. "Thank you for your concern, Elder Sister Yiyi. But I also told you before that I don't need fans who'll turn their backs on me just because I'm in a relationship. And I don't give a whit about haters. I'll always have haters. It's part of my life, not only as a celebrity but also as a person. Also don't worry too much about haters destroying my career. If I let them destroy my career, then that just means that I'm not strong enough to face them. This is my career, my life, and I won't let anyone block my way in reaching my dreams."
Jin Liwei kissed her temple, fighting the urge to give the manager a piece of his mind. He controlled himself knowing that his amazing baby girl had everything in control. As if he would let anyone block his future wife's way. He would bulldoze them out of the way and then roll the red carpet for his baby girl afterwards.
Iris and Tang Yiyi talked some more. Iris knew that her manager was just genuinely concerned about her, and for that, she was grateful. Based on what Tang Yiyi had been hinting through her words, Iris could sense that she wasn't really a priority for Bright Summit anymore. They were busy promoting other artists during her disappearance.
'I can only depend on my own abilities,' she thought. 'As long as the company doesn't suppress me, I don't need their full support. I can grab and create opportunities for myself with my own hands. If they see me succeeding, they'll naturally start supporting me again.'
The call ended with Tang Yiyi warning Iris to be careful of the media. They would surely start hounding her and start investigating about her unknown fiancé. The manager also assured that she would fight for resources for Iris within the company.
Afterwards, Iris said goodbye to the show's staff. They persuaded her to stay until the show ended, but she declined.
Jin Liwei's subordinates arrived and they escorted the group out of the TV station building. And indeed, a crowd of reporters, paparazzi, fans and rumourmongers flocked outside for Iris. Fortunately, they were duped by Dom and Jiang Ying Yue disguised as Iris, while the real Iris escaped with Jin Liwei in another vehicle.
###
At a high-end nightclub frequented by celebrities and socialites.
JJ was hanging out with his friends. DJ Song was there and other quite influential figures in the country's music industry. They were inside a VIP lounge.
However, instead of enjoying the club's party music, they used the room's soundproof feature to mute outside noise. Instead, they all focused on the huge flat-screen TV hanging on the wall. It was playing "MusicFest Tonight".
"Old J, did you know that Iris can play the guitar like that?" DJ Song asked.
"Yeah. I discovered early on that the brat is a multi-instrumentalist while we were making her album 'Rebirth'," JJ replied. "But I had no idea that she could also play a left-handed guitar nor did I know that her skill level with the guitar was that advanced."
"Are you kidding me? That level isn't merely 'advanced'. It's expert level! No, I think it's beyond that. It's just that the skill levels of those Pandemonium kids aren't high enough to match her, so she's the one who has to lower her level a bit to match them," a famous songwriter observed.
"That's what I think, too," a well-respected studio musician said. "My main instrument is the guitar, so I know what I'm saying. I can say that what she showed tonight is just the tip of the iceberg. Old J, you say that you didn't know that she can play a left-handed guitar. Does that mean that she can play the regular right-handed guitar as well?"
"Yeah."
"Is she right-handed or left-handed?"
"As far as I know, she writes with her right hand."
"Hmm..." The studio musician swirled tequila as he thought deeply about something. "The way she plays the left-handed guitar reminds me of someone."
"I know, right? That's what I was thinking too," the songwriter said.
DJ Song: "Enrique Valdez."
"Exactly." The studio musician nodded his head. "Enrique Valdez, the legendary hitmaker, also considered as the #1 southpaw guitarist in the world. The way Iris played the guitar tonight demonstrates his exquisite style of playing. The advanced technical skills are a given, but even more than that, she even captured his total control of the music and the band's pace, and also his detailed, fluid and seductive style of playing. And of course, it's even more noticeable because she played the left-handed guitar."
"Now that you mention it, I remember seeing on the news that Iris has been spotted with Enrique Valdez in Europe," the songwriter said.
DJ Song: "If I'm not mistaken, it was when Iris allegedly performed at Maestro De Luca's concert in Germany. There are even rumours that she's lovers with both the maestro and Enrique Valdez."
"Hmph! Ridiculous! Those are just rumours! I know the brat and I can feel her hunger and passion for music. She even dares to quarrel with someone as awesome as me! The brat is not a stupid idiot to ruin her future by entering a relationship with Maestro De Luca—he's married and has grandchildren!—and Enrique Valdez who's also known for his string of lovers. Besides, she doesn't need to sleep with people like them to succeed. She can succeed with her own abilities and talents, and of course, as long as she continues to work with a music producer as amazing as me!"
The friends laughed and continued to discuss Iris' performances on the show while drinking alcohol. They didn't care much about her engagement. They were all music professionals. Once they considered someone worthy of respect as a musician, they wouldn't care about the individual's personal circumstances.
Iris was such a person. They already recognized her as someone worthy of their respect as fellow musicians.
###
Inside his music studio at home, Jin Chonglin strummed his acoustic guitar. His eyes were intense, as he jotted down several chords on paper to form a melody. He looked like a possessed man.
Earlier, he was relaxing while watching "MusicFest Tonight" on bed. When Iris appeared as substitute lead guitarist of the rock band Pandemonium, he was surprised.
He was watching the show because he knew that Iris was going to perform tonight. He didn't expect that she would make a comeback before him. He wanted to see if she was alright.
Then he watched her electrifying guitar performance. Guitar was also his main instrument, especially when he just debuted as a musician years ago. Seeing her play the guitar like an expert pricked at his self-confidence.
"I thought you're a pianist," he muttered. "Why are you playing the guitar like you're f*cking Enrique Valdez? Are you high or something?"
After the performance, he turned off the TV and hurried to his music studio. He didn't watch her solo performance and had no idea about her engagement.
A sense of urgency overwhelmed him after watching her. He was Jin Chonglin, a superstar. However, he felt like if he didn't do something right now, a bigger superstar would soon surpass him.
Iris Long was back. And she was stronger than ever.
"I won't let you have the throne that easily. May the best musician win."
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Chapter 276 - IEatSlippers Is Back
The next day, the latest episode of "MusicFest Tonight" was trending online. The episode also swept the TV ratings against other shows broadcasting at the same time slot. Not only that, the episode's video recording posted online received a staggering number of views within a 24-hour period. Although it didn't break any records, it was still very impressive for a regular episode.
Everything was because of Iris Long.
First of all, nobody could deny that her two performances on the show were both outstanding. The people already expected that she would give an exceptional solo performance. She had established a track record of always delivering ever since her first comeback.
What nobody expected was her surprise performance with the Pandemonium rock band. People couldn't stop talking about it. They were all shocked and amazed at her skillful playing of the lead guitar. Other musicians were now paying closer attention to Iris because they wanted to know how skilled she really was in playing the piano, the guitar and other instruments.
So Iris could also do rock. What else could she do? Were there things in music that she could NOT do?
These questions swirled in people's minds. Many were already starting to believe that she must be some kind of a musical genius. That was why they felt so puzzled by her choices of trashy songs during her teenage years.
Why did she allow herself to sing those kind of songs when she was actually so brilliant? Was it because she was going through a rebellious period that time?
And the second reason why last night's episode of "MusicFest Tonight" trended so much was because of Iris' shocking confession that she was engaged. Not only was it trending online, it also became the headlines on TV and newspapers.
"Iris Long is Engaged!"
"Who is Iris Long's Mysterious Fiancé?"
There was even a poll listing possible men who could be her fiancé.
Leading the poll was Jin Chonglin. Second was Eros. Third, Enrique Valdez. Fourth, Maestro Ludovico De Luca—if he would divorce his beloved wife. Fifth and onward were the other members of Pandemonium. Even further down the list were other male idols, models and actors.
The poll completely ignored Iris' statement saying that her fiancé didn't work in showbiz.
Most of the Black Stars and even Pandemonium fans were supportive of Iris' engagement. They congratulated her and begged for her to reveal her fiancé's identity soon, or even just give some hints so that they could figure it out for themselves.
Unfortunately, there were also some who didn't like the fact the she got engaged. They expressed their dismay and the feeling of betrayal online.
"I can't bear this! I spent so much money buying the digital and hard copies of all her albums, merchandise, and the travel expenses just to watch her guesting and live performances. She's just an idol who depends on us fans for her livelihood! How dare she publicly announce that she's engaged?!"
"It's us fans who got her where she is today! She's nothing without us! We spent so much money on her and now she's going to use our money to pay for her wedding? Unacceptable!"
"She's a product and we fans are customers. I don't want to spend my money anymore on a product that I find unsatisfactory."
"She doesn't care about us. No gratitude at all. She doesn't even know that she needs to be responsible for fans' expectations of her."
They posted photos and videos online of themselves burning Iris' images, albums and other merchandise.
Of course, the Black Stars wouldn't allow these former fans turned haters to continue bashing their Boss Iris. They immediately came in droves to defend their boss' name. Another online war involved the Black Stars and the infamous troll unit, the Slippers Army. Surprisingly, some Pandemonium fans joined the online battle in the name of Iris Long.
CaptainBlackStar: "All of you are a**holes! How dare you call Boss Iris an idol! She's not an idol! She's a full-fledged musician! Learn the difference first, you morons! I even doubt that you were her fans to begin with. True fans will never turn their backs. Besides, I find your reasons for suddenly hating her utterly delusional and psychotic. So you think you own her just because you spent money? She sells music, not her body and soul! You're all twisted sons of b*tches! You don't own her and never will!"
LittlePhoenix: "Yeah! Although I'm still young and not an adult yet, I know that you're all sick in the head. Eat my slippers!"
iEatSlippers: "I disappear for some time and I come back to find traitors within our Black Stars and even in my beloved Slippers Army. Unforgivable! I'll whack all turncoats with my mighty slippers!"
LittlePhoenix: "Uwah! Welcome back, Big Brother!"
All the Black Stars, especially the Slippers Army, were delighted that iEatSlippers was finally back. Their blood boiled in anticipation for what would surely become a spectacular online battle.
iEatSlippers: "Listen up, all of you toxic vermin! Boss Iris is already wealthy even without your money! Go take your stinking money elsewhere! Boss doesn't need you! The Black Stars don't need you! And squeeze this in those pea-sized brains of yours that boss got to where she's now because of her own talent, abilities and hard work. Those who say otherwise are delusional ingrates who deserve some serious whacking! Come, Slippers Army! Prepare your mighty slippers and let's get whacking!"
"All hail our mighty slippers of justice!"
CaptainBlackStar: "Comrades, attack!"
MonkeyFace also appeared and directed the divisions to several online battlefields. The Pandemonium fans were dumbfounded by the might and organization of the Black Stars. Some of them already heard about the fan club's reputation on the web before, especially the notoriety of the Slippers Army who were some of the worst trolls on the internet. But of course, they only trolled when their Boss Iris was attacked in any way. This experience only pumped the Pandemonium fans and fought just as fiercely as the Black Stars against the anti-Iris Long haters.
While all of these were happening online, Maestro Liu Wei and his followers continued to discredit Iris Long to the media. They taunted her, challenging her to show evidence that she really performed with Maestro Ludovico De Luca in his orchestra concert in Germany.
"See? She can't show any evidence because there are none," a reporter recorded him saying. "I bet that she's just banking on the fact that Maestro De Luca will ignore her and therefore won't refute her claim of performing with him. She's a liar, that's what she is. I don't understand why people are following her, becoming her brain dead fans. I constantly worry about our youths today with bad role models like her."
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Chapter 277 - A Closer Look
Bright Summit scheduled a major interview for Iris to answer all the questions and rumours surrounding her once and for all. Originally, Bright Summit wanted to hold a press conference for Iris but Tang Yiyi fought for a one-to-one interview instead. It would be a safer bet especially for someone as straightforward as Iris because at least they could choose the interviewer, unlike a press conference which was free-for-all.
Before the interview, Iris invited Tang Yiyi to Dragon Palace Home #10.
"Iris, you bought a new mansion?" The manager asked when she arrived. She took off her coat and handed it to the butler.
"No. This is my fiancé's, but it's our home now," Iris replied while stroking the plump Ice Cream in her arms. Popcorn was sniffing Tang Yiyi's feet.
They were at the grand foyer. Tang Yiyi had seen a fair share of luxurious and palatial residences especially since she worked in showbiz, but this mansion was on another level. After the redecoration, the mansion was now warm and welcoming compared to its previous cold and crypt-like atmosphere. There were monograms with the letters LX everywhere from the pillowcases to the curtains and other decorations.
"LX? Sounds familiar...hmmm..." Tang Yiyi murmured. "Iris, your fiancé is rich."
"I know."
Iris led her manager further inside the grand foyer. Popcorn trotted beside them while Ice Cream enjoyed her Mommy's embrace.
"Oh!" Tang Yiyi stopped. Her eyes widened as she looked up at the top of the twin staircases. There was a huge portrait of Iris and a cold handsome man together with the two cats. "Iris, is that your fiancé?"
"Yes."
"Why do I think he looks familiar? I think I've seen him before..."
Iris didn't reply, leading her manager to the drawing room instead. A tall man was sitting on one of the sofas reading a newspaper. Popcorn immediately ran to the man and rubbed himself against him, meowing loudly, asking to be petted. Ice Cream also wiggled in Iris' arms, asking to be put down so that she could also go to the man.
"Darling, my manager is here," Iris said as she walked towards him.
The tall man stood up after petting the two cats. Then he gave Iris a quick nuzzle before facing the manager.
Tang Yiyi was struck by the beautiful couple in front of her. She just stood there like a stupid idiot, her eyes goggling at them. They looked so perfect together that they didn't seem real. When she finally regained her senses, Tang Yiyi had the strongest feeling that she knew this man. She just couldn't remember who he was at the moment.
"Hello, my name is Tang Yiyi of Bright Summit Entertainment Company. I'm your fiancée Iris Long's manager. It's nice to meet you, Mister?"
The man stepped forward and shook hands with her. "Hello. Welcome to our home, Miss Tang. Thank you for taking care of my fiancé. My name is Jin Liwei. It's also nice to meet you."
"J-jin Liwei?!!!"
Tang Yiyi's heart stopped for a few seconds. Her eyes felt like they were going to pop out of her head while her jaw felt like it was going to dislocate from her shock. Of course she recognized the President-CEO of Jin Corporation! Not to mention that he was also the elder brother of Jin Chonglin who was one of Bright Summit's biggest prides.
"Y-you...Iris...you're engaged to J-jin Liwei?! The Jin Liwei?!!" She asked in disbelief.
Iris nodded. "Please sit down, Elder Sis Yiyi."
"Yes! Yes, I need to sit down...oh..." The manager dropped on the sofa like a heavy rock. Her wide eyes stared at the couple like they were extinct creatures brought back to life.
The butler wheeled in some hot Da Hong Pao tea and biscuits. Tang Yiyi shoved biscuits into her mouth. She gradually recovered from her shock only to discover that she already finished the entire plate of biscuits. She gulped down tea.
Then they began to talk. Tang Yiyi was excited after knowing the identity of Iris' fiancé. She suggested revealing his identity to the public to stop all the rumours saying that Iris was lovers with Enrique Valdez and Maestro De Luca. However, Iris rejected the idea.
"Hmm. You're right. Now is not a good time to reveal that your fiancé is Jin Liwei. You still haven't stabilized your foothold in the industry yet. People will think that you used him to advance your career."
The three talked about the engagement and Iris' upcoming interview. They thought about the best ways to answer some questions that were sure to be asked.
When Tang Yiyi was about to leave, she finally realized the meaning of the LX monograms around the mansion.
"How sweet and romantic using your initials together all over your home. Maybe it's just a coincidence, but the company that is co-producing the film 'Strong Yet Broken' which Iris is involved in is also called LX Productions."
"En. It's my company," Jin Liwei told her.
The poor manager was once again shocked out of her wits.
###
The day of the interview.
Iris and her people arrived at a TV station building. It was different from the TV station of "MusicFest Tonight". As expected, a horde of fans and paparazzi waited outside the building for Iris. When she arrived, they swarmed to her. Jiang Ying Yue and Dom stuck close to her while several bodyguards encircled them.
"We love you, Boss Iris!"
A group wearing suits indicated that they were Black Stars. Iris spent some time interacting with them, signing autographs and taking pictures.
Then suddenly, tomatoes started raining down on Iris and her group. Iris calmly took the umbrella from Dom's bag and opened it over their heads. Tomatoes splattered on the umbrella, making Iris' hands shake from the force but the important thing was that they weren't hit. Some of the bodyguards were hit, though.
"I don't accept your engagement, Iris Long! Break up with your fiancé and I'll forget about my anger and return to being a Black Star!"
Iris' eyes turned cold.
The Black Stars present were enraged.
"Who wants you back? The Black Stars don't need you! Even if you want to return, you're not welcome anymore! Go away and don't bother our boss!"
"Xiulan, we need to hurry inside and get out of here," Jiang Ying Yue told her in an urgent whisper.
Iris nodded. Then she turned to her true fans. "Everyone, please hold your temper. I don't want anyone getting hurt because of me. Thank you very much for your support. Please know that I always appreciate you."
"Boss Iris, we're always here for you! We're not like these fake fans! We'll follow you forever and ever!"
With a last smile and a wave, Iris was led inside the building. The tomatoes and the hateful shouts continued to rain, but Iris' determination to not back down was way stronger than the umbrella she was holding. Her hands tightened around the umbrella. She felt angry that someone dared to order her around to break up with Jin Liwei.
The building's security finally responded and controlled the anti-fan who threw the tomatoes.
An assistant director welcomed Iris and her group inside and apologized for allowing such an incident to happen to her. She waved it off, not wanting to make it into a big deal. Relieved, the AD smiled and led them to the studio where the interview would be held.
The studio housed the long-time talk show "A Closer Look with Feng Jiu", hosted by the well-respected Madam Feng Jiu. She was a vivacious middle-aged lady who had interviewed countless personalities throughout her long career. She had interviewed some of the most famous figures not only in the country but also around the world. Not much was known about her personal life. She preferred to live a low-key lifestyle despite her celebrity status.
Inside Madam Feng Jiu's dressing room, she reviewed her list of questions while having her hair and make-up done.
"Sister Jiujiu, take care of dear Iris, alright?" A posh middle-aged lady asked beside her.
Feng Jiu sighed. "I know, but I still have to do a proper job as an interviewer. I just can't not ask her some juicy questions."
"I understand. But I hope that you won't be too hard on her. The poor girl must still be feeling traumatized after learning that her car accident was an attempted murder."
"Fine, I get it. You're my cousin so I'll give you face in this matter. I'll be nice to her," Feng Jiu promised the posh lady.
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Chapter 278 - Feng Jiu Interviews Iris Long Part I
The talk show "A Closer Look with Feng Jiu" started. While Madam Feng Jiu was doing her opening monologue, Iris stood backstage waiting for the signal for her to head out. Tang Yiyi was beside her, whispering reminders for her to control her straightforwardness even for just a bit.
Dom and Jiang Ying Yue were already sitting in the audience. The other bodyguards placed themselves in strategic places throughout the studio, so that they could respond and protect her immediately if something happened.
"Don't worry, Elder Sister Yiyi. I'll be fine," Iris assured her manager.
Tang Yiyi wanted to say more, but they heard Madam Feng Jiu's words.
"Please welcome the beautiful and talented...IRIS LONG!!!"
Iris gave a reassuring smile to her manager before straightening her back and walking out with confidence and elegance. She was wearing a tailored purple jumpsuit which accentuated her svelte hourglass figure and long legs. Soft, shimmery make-up and a French braid updo hairstyle completed her sophisticated look.
Loud applause greeted her as she reached the set. She smiled and waved at Dom, Jiang Ying Yue and the suits-wearing Black Stars all sitting together. They occupied more than half of the audience. She also saw Madam Feng Wan at the very front, looking posh as always. They nodded at each other.
"Welcome to my show, Iris!" Feng Jiu greeted her.
"Thank you very much for having me, Madam Feng Jiu. It's a great honour to be here."
After the greetings, the two sat down facing each other on big, comfortable armchairs. They first chatted about trivial topics before Feng Jiu eased the conversation to the interview.
"I watched 'MusicFest Tonight' last Friday. Even though I'm not fond of rock music, I found myself totally captivated watching you perform with the rock band Pandemonium. I'm sure that everyone is shocked as I was to see you suddenly playing the electric guitar so skillfully. Can you tell us what happened and how you became a substitute for the band's lead guitarist Eros?"
Iris recounted the story about how Eros got injured before their performance.
"We have the same manager so I think that it's only natural that we help each other out. We're like family. We're the siblings and our manager is our parent," she said. "It was the first time that we played together, so we sounded quite rough. Fortunately, we didn't make any big mistakes during our performance."
"What rough? I couldn't tell at all. All I know was that you were amazing while rocking that lead guitar. You looked so natural that it was as if you've been playing with them for a long time."
Then they talked about her solo performance which Feng Jiu praised even more.
"I have a cousin who loves 'Phantom of Your Love' so much," Feng Jiu shared.
After talking about 'Phantom of Your Love', Iris promoted her upcoming soundtrack album and the soon-to-be released film "Strong Yet Broken".
"Alright. Let's move back a bit in time and talk about the reason why you suddenly disappeared again from the limelight for a second time," Feng Jiu said. Her tone sounded more serious. "And it's safe to say that both times you disappeared were caused by the same person. Iris, can you tell us how you felt when you learned that it was Fan Luo who ordered your car accident two years ago? We all know that it almost killed you and that you were comatose for a whole year as a result."
Most of the audience, especially Dom and the Black Stars, all hissed when they heard Fan Luo's name. They cursed her but soon became quiet again because they also wanted to hear Iris' answer to the question.
Iris paused and tried to remember how the remnant inside her reacted. She couldn't help but shudder at the memory of the intense bloodthirst and desire for revenge overwhelming her that time.
Feng Jiu caught her reaction and her heart softened for the girl. She thought that Iris must still be feeling traumatized by what Fan Luo did to her. At first, Feng Jiu was just acting extra warm to Iris because of her cousin Feng Wan's request. But now she really felt sympathetic to Iris' traumatic experience. Although she couldn't avoid asking these probing questions, as a skilled interviewer, she could choose the manner on how to ask them.
"I was angry...furious. I lost control of myself. Immense anger...it's all I felt," Iris finally answered.
"Did you ever think about revenge?"
"Of course," Iris said with honesty.
Feng Jiu nodded in understanding, not the least bit judgmental. "We can't blame you. If I was in your shoes, I would also feel the same way."
The audience murmured their agreement.
Feng Jiu: "Now on to a more sensitive topic. Despite the evidence gathered by the police and your strong alibi, there are still rumours saying that you were the one who kidnapped and tortured Fan Luo and the Alarm Girls. What do you say about that?"
Dom and the Black Stars expressed their dismay at the question. Some staff members requested them to calm down.
Iris already expected and prepared herself for this question. But it didn't mean that she wasn't affected. Her outward expression showed no visible reaction, but deep inside she felt panicked. Fortunately, she was able to tamp it down. She mentally reminded herself that it wasn't her who did it, that she had to allow the remnant to do it because if she didn't, she would die a second time after the connection between her soul and body was severed. This calmed her down but still left a bad taste in her mouth. It would forever be a stain on her that she could never wash away.
"The evidence is already available for everyone to see. Those who are still choosing to ignore the evidence are just creating an issue where there is none," she answered.
The deflection pricked at her but it was necessary.
"Alright." Feng Jiu accepted her answer. She didn't ask for additional details, choosing to move on to the next question instead. "Iris, where have you been while you were gone? We know that you were in Germany. Did you stay there the entire time?"
Iris: "No, I recuperated at a private place in Switzerland. It's where I met Maestro Ludovico De Luca. Sometime afterwards, he invited me to perform with him at his concert so we all flew to Germany together."
Feng Jiu: "Good thing that you mentioned Maestro De Luca. My next question is actually about him. I admire him greatly and he's one of my favourite living classical musicians. How did you meet the maestro?"
Knowing that Maestro De Luca hadn't introduced her as his student yet, Iris didn't want to be the one to reveal the fact.
"We met through a mutual acquaintance. Maestro recognized me through my piano album 'Rebirth Melodies'. It's doing well in Europe, if I may say so myself."
Feng Jiu: "Ah, how interesting! I'm sure that you're aware that one of our very own maestros have criticized your piano album harshly before. And now you're saying that Maestro De Luca recognized you through that very album and even became the catalyst for him to invite you to perform with him on his concert?"
"Yes." Iris nodded.
"What a liar!"
"Show us proof that you performed with Maestro De Luca first!"
Loud, angry voices interrupted the interview. Everyone turned their heads and saw two people, a male and a female, standing up from their seats in the audience. They pointed accusatory fingers at Iris. Their expressions looked ugly and mocking.
"Who the hell are you two?" A Black Star asked them.
"We're Maestro Liu Wei's students. We won't tolerate a mere pop singer making our maestro look bad in front of everyone. Why don't you all open your eyes and see that the person you're following is nothing but a liar?!"
"What did you say about our boss?!"
The Black Stars started quarreling with them. Despite being only two people, Maestro Liu Wei's students didn't back down and traded insults with Iris' fans.
Feng Jiu was very displeased watching this scene. She didn't like people interrupting her own show.
Iris stood up. "Please calm down, everyone. There is no need to get riled up."
Her bodyguards all became alert, ready to shield her at any given moment.
The Black Stars reluctantly listened to her. They returned to their seats but made sure to shoot nasty glares at the two f*ckers who continued to insult their boss.
"You can't show any evidence because you're a liar! You're just someone pretending to be a classical musician. Stay in pop music where you belong! We don't need a lowlife like you in our respectable world of classical music!"
"You're the lowlife! Your whole family consists of lowlife!" One Black Star couldn't stop herself anymore. "If the world of classical music is filled with people like you and your maestro, then it's clearly not respectable! Ptui!"
"You! How dare you?!"
Iris was about to move and intervene herself, but Feng Jiu stopped her. The host was listening to some new information from the show's director.
"Oh, we are receiving a call right now. From who?"
Then Feng Jiu gasped in shock. Her reaction drew everyone's attention. They stopped the ruckus and looked at her curiously.
"Oh my! On the line right now is someone that...I can't believe this...wow. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the one and only, MAESTRO LUDOVICO DE LUCA!!!"
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Chapter 279 - Feng Jiu Interviews Iris Long Part II
Several screens in the studio flickered and Maestro Ludovico De Luca's image appeared. The screen was split into two. A big square showed him while a small square showed another person who was his translator.
Everyone was very surprised because they expected that it would only be a phone call, but it turned out to be a video call instead.
Feng Jiu greeted the maestro and introduced herself. The translator translated the maestro's introduction. The people were impressed even though a lot of them didn't know much about him because they weren't really interested in classical music. It was only when the issue about Iris performing at his concert became the news topic that they learned about him.
"There you are, Xiu—Iris! We talked on the phone the other day, but you never mentioned that you're facing all these problems regarding your performance at my concert. Why didn't you tell me?" Maestro De Luca demanded.
"Hello, Maestro. Lovely to talk to you again. I didn't tell you because it's not a big deal," she answered, waving a dismissive hand.
"You silly child." He started lecturing her. "Next time, tell me these things!"
"I understand, Maestro."
Everyone was too dumbfounded watching the exchange between the two. Most of them couldn't understand what they were saying because they were speaking in Italian. The translator was doing his best to keep up with them.
Iris looked too calm and comfortable talking to such a distinguished figure. She looked like she was just speaking to a family member she met every day. Even the experienced interviewer Feng Jiu stuttered a bit while she was introducing herself to the maestro earlier.
What was more, the people were surprised to discover that Iris spoke fluent Italian. The Black Stars became even more die hard fans than before. Their boss was just too amazing! Was there anything that their boss could NOT do?
As for Maestro Liu Wei's two students, their mockery turned into expressions of utter disbelief...and horror. Of course they immediately recognized Maestro Ludovico De Luca. They admired and respected him, even idolized him more than their own Maestro Liu Wei. His level was just beyond their own maestro.
The director signaled for Feng Jiu to take over the situation as Iris and Maestro De Luca were getting carried away by their own conversation.
"Maestro De Luca, we are all so pleased and excited to have this opportunity to speak with you directly. It's such a great honour!" Feng Wan skillfully interrupted the two. "May I ask the reason why you decided to call us here today?"
"I called because I was informed that Xiu—Iris is being bullied by some of the classical musicians there," Maestro De Luca said. "If I had known earlier and if I'm not so busy preparing for my next concert, I would've flown there right now. I'm severely disappointed in Maestro Wei Liu and the other musicians teaming up with him to harass Iris. I respected him as a fellow classical musician before but I had no idea that he's actually a narrow-minded snob who bullies young, talented musicians. Music, be it classical or not, is meant for everyone! Music has no borders and shame on those who create them from their own misguided sense of discrimination!"
The faces of Maestro Liu Wei's two students in the audience paled. They wished that the ground could just open up and swallow them whole. They mentally beat themselves up for listening to their maestro and joining in his hate campaign against Iris Long. Now their hopes and dreams of venturing outside the country to further their classical music careers abroad were all crushed. Who would respect them after Maestro De Luca slapped their faces alongside their own maestro?
They tried to quietly leave the studio, but they were blocked by several Black Stars and the studio's security who just arrived at the scene.
"I'm here to confirm that Iris Long performed with me at my orchestra concert in Germany," Maestro De Luca continued. His voice was heated and laced with anger. "You are all demanding recordings from Iris? Are you just acting ignorant or what? You're all classical musicians and yet you don't know that cameras or any recording devices aren't allowed in my concerts? If you want recordings then ask them from me, not from her! Although the recording for my entire concert is not released yet, I'll post Iris' two performances on my website. Go take a look and see for yourselves. If you still spout any nonsense after this, then you really have serious problems in your heads!"
The translator winced a bit at the harsh words the maestro said. She tried to soften the words with less accurate translations with similar meanings in order to make them more acceptable for general viewing on TV. Of course, she filtered out the curse words as well.
"If Iris is not appreciated there, she's always welcome here in Europe," Maestro De Luca said to finish his tirade.
Feng Jiu asked him a few more questions to which he was surprisingly accommodating to answer. After speaking to Iris and telling her not to let anyone bully her, he ended the video call.
Everyone in the studio was in uproar after the call. Even Feng Jiu could barely contain her excitement. She instructed her staff to check Maestro De Luca's website immediately.
Iris watched all of these happening with a calm and unfazed expression. She wasn't really bothered by Maestro Liu Wei. Like all the other haters bashing her, he was just part of an unpleasant background noise in her life. Annoying, yes, but couldn't affect her in any significant way.
She didn't tell Maestro De Luca about this matter, so someone must've told him. Grandpa Lu? Jin Liwei? It wasn't Grandpa Lu's style to directly interfere with her career because he wanted her to learn how to handle everything herself. So it should be her man, Jin Liwei.
A smile softened her expression. Although she preferred handling things on her own, it felt good that someone was taking care of her even when she didn't ask for help.
Her heart warmed up. She couldn't wait for the interview to be over, so that she could go home to her darling.
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Chapter 280 - Feng Jiu Interviews Iris Long Part III
The screens in the studio flickered once again. They began showing a video of Iris in a drop-dead gorgeous fiery red dress playing Schumann's "Toccata in C Major, Op. 7". Her swift fingers skipping over the piano keys astounded everyone. The quick performance ended too soon.
Fortunately, another video played right after. It showed Iris performing Schumann's "Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 54" with Maestro Ludovico De Luca and his symphony orchestra. Because the original performance was half an hour long, only the highlights were shown in the video.
Those who weren't interested in classical music before instantly became converts after watching the two videos. They found that they also enjoyed Iris playing classical music as much as when she performed pop and rock.
The Black Stars and the rest of the audience cheered and gave Iris a standing ovation. Even the show's host, Feng Jiu, stood up and clapped her hands. Iris stood up and bowed her thanks to everyone.
"Boss Iris, you're the best! Cool! Amazing! Beautiful! Nobody can compare to you!"
"Iris! Iris! Iris!"
Maestro Liu Wei's two students felt like outcasts. They were also tempted to clap their hands after watching the videos but felt that they lost the right to do so after mocking Iris earlier. They just stood there with stiff expressions, as they endured the nasty glares and contemptuous looks from the people around them. They wanted to run away, but the security wouldn't allow them. They had to suffer the humiliation that they brought to themselves.
Everyone finally settled down and returned to their seats, including Feng Jiu and Iris.
"Wow, Iris! That was so mind-blowing!" Feng Jiu exclaimed. She was truly impressed by the young lady sitting opposite her. "I didn't expect that you'll be this skilled in classical music. Is there anything that you cannot do?"
Iris chuckled. "Of course, there are many things that I can't do. But when it comes to music, I love it so much that I constantly desire to improve my skills and abilities. I'm never satisfied because I believe that there will always be room for improvement. Saying all of these, the most important thing for me in music is the freedom to enjoy it and to express my emotions and interpretations through it. Music is such a wonder and I feel blessed to be able to be a part of its marvelous world."
Feng Jiu: "You sound very wise for your age. I'm sure that there are many people who'll start seeing you in a new light after this."
Feng Jiu asked Iris for more details about her performances at Maestro De Luca's concert. Everyone listened intently, not wanting to miss any details.
"Wow. Not only did you perform with the world-renowned Maestro Ludovico De Luca and his award-winning symphony orchestra, but you also performed at the historical opera house in Germany in front of so many distinguished people from all around the world. I can't wrap my head around what you experienced. This is such a great achievement! I'm so proud of you as my fellow countrywoman. Congratulations, Iris!" Feng Jiu led another round of applause for Iris.
Iris: "Thank you, Madam Feng. Thank you, everyone!"
Feng Jiu: "And of course, I also want to thank you because if it weren't for you, I don't think my show and everyone present here today will have the chance to receive a call from Maestro De Luca himself and speak with him directly. Let me tell you that this is a dream come true for me. So thank you, Iris."
Before they moved to the next topic of the interview, both Iris and Feng Jiu drank water from the cups beside them.
Feng Jiu: "My next question is about Enrique Valdez. If my information is correct, you've been seen together with him in Germany. And also some have noticed that your way of playing the electric guitar is very similar to the legendary hitmaker's southpaw style. How did you meet him? What's your relationship with each other?"
"I met Mr. Valdez at the same time I met Maestro De Luca in Switzerland," Iris replied. "They were actually together that time. In fact, we all flew together from Switzerland to Germany in his private jet. Of course, there were other people with us who were our mutual acquaintances. As for my playing style being similar to his, that's because he's one of my biggest musical influences alongside Maestro De Luca."
"I see." Feng Jiu nodded and asked more about what Enrique was like in person.
Iris answered all of the questions with ease. She didn't bat her eyes even when Feng Jiu asked her about the rumours saying that she was lovers with Enrique Valdez.
"I only have one lover and that is my fiancé," she said.
The Black Stars and the other audience members squealed when they heard her words. The camera zoomed in on the diamond ring around her finger.
Feng Jiu: "Before anything else, I want to say congratulations on your engagement, Iris!"
More congratulations poured out to her from everyone. She thanked them.
"I can tell that you're in love. You're blooming and you look very happy," Feng Jiu told her. "My next question is about your engagement. That is one beautiful ring. Can you show it to us one more time?"
Iris raised her hand and allowed the camera to have a better view of it. Then she explained how it was the perfect ring for a pianist like her because it was made from a super lightweight material. She also briefly told them how her man proposed to her in Italy, but didn't share anything more. She wanted to keep the special memory of the proposal between her and Jin Liwei.
Feng Jiu: "I know that my next question is something that many want to ask you. Who is your mysterious fiancé?"
"My fiancé is a businessman," Iris answered with a soft smile. "I don't want to reveal who he is yet. I want to enjoy our privacy as a couple first. But someday, I'll introduce him to everyone."
Feng Jiu: "Can you tell us more about the love story between the two of you?"
Iris shared a brief recounting of how she and Jin Liwei met at a hotel lobby after Mr. JJ made her "audition" at a restaurant. The Black Stars knew this audition story. Madam Feng Wan's eyes also lit up at the memory of meeting Iris for the first time. They were all fascinated how she met her fiancé on the same day.
"You really look like a woman in love. Your face just lights up whenever you talk about your fiancé," Feng Jiu told her. "He's a lucky man. I hope...no, we all hope to meet him soon."
"Yes, I love him very much. I never expected that I'll love a man like this. I also feel lucky because he loves me, supports me and lets me chase after my dreams without complaining," Iris replied.
Feng Jiu: "Have you already decided on a wedding date?"
Iris: "Not yet."
Feng Jiu: "Do you want to have children?"
"Yes, but not too soon. I'm still young after all," she answered after hesitating for a few seconds. "But we have two adorable kittens. We consider them as our children."
A photo of Ice Cream and Popcorn was shown on the screens. The kittens, who didn't look like kittens anymore because they were so big now, were together on the floor with a tall man whose face wasn't shown. His strong, lean muscles were obvious even beneath a long-sleeved shirt and trousers. His wide chest and tight abdomen looked very attractive.
"Oooooh~"
"Uwah! So cute~"
"Look at his body!"
Everyone was filled with excitement upon seeing the man's figure.
"Iris, is that your fiancé?" Feng Jiu asked.
"Yes."
"He already looks handsome even without showing his face."
Iris laughed along with everyone else. She nodded. "Yes, he's very handsome."
Dom squealed with the rest of the audience. The Black Stars begged Iris to give hints about her fiancé's identity. She only smiled, not responding to their request.
"I can't take this anymore! Iris Long, you sl*t! How dare you show off your fiancé and brag about him in front of us?!" A man stood up and yelled from the audience. His eyes looked furious and crazed. "You ungrateful b*tch! I spent so much money on you but here you are enjoying yourself and sleeping with a man instead of working hard to give me my money's worth!"
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