From Apocalypse To Entertainment Circle (BL) Chapter 1: reincarnated in the body of an idol?
"This variety show is extremely popular. You should at least try to leave a good final impression on the audience."
Qing Xia heard a soft voice—one that sounded like a girl's, or rather, a mature woman's.
His ears were still ringing, likely due to a grenade exploding near his head. He blinked a few times, attempting to regain his senses and shake off the annoying hum.
"Xian, are you even listening to me? I'm talking to you! Don't play the silent man now," said Manager Su, trying to suppress the anger bubbling within her. This artist of hers had always been like this—living in his world, indifferent to everything around him. If she hadn't been his assistant for three years, she might have thought he was either a recluse or a fool.
The moment her words fell, Qing Xia opened his eyes and looked toward the sound. Manager Su froze. There was no unnecessary emotion in those beautiful amber eyes staring back at her.
She went silent for a moment, not because of the stunning face before her, nor the glow of his pale skin. It wasn't the sight of a young man brushing back his shoulder-length hair, holding his head slightly while squinting with mild annoyance. All of that was certainly striking, but it was the coldness and cruelty in those eyes that rendered Manager Su speechless.
For some reason, she had the eerie feeling that the moment she opened her mouth, her throat would be slit. Don't ask her why such a thought came to her—she was equally surprised by the fear flooding her in the presence of this beautiful teenage boy.
Qing Xia was observing his surroundings now. He wasn't stupid. Within two seconds of opening his eyes, he realized he wasn't in his own body—or even in his world.
No, this couldn't be his world. A luxurious car, a woman seated across from him in elegant attire and flawless makeup, sunlight streaming through the car's window while buildings blurred past outside... Even the air tasted different, confirming this wasn't his world.
Don't joke with me. That filthy world had none of this.
It was impossible to forget—how could he forget years of suffering, pain, and torment? How could he forget the ever-present black fog? The barren lands with no life or water? How could he forget the destruction of the world humanity once knew?
He had fought with all his might, putting in every ounce of effort. Though, truthfully, he had grown tired—sick of living in that dreadful world. Yet, he couldn't give up the life his family had sacrificed everything for.
"Madam, we've arrived."
The driver's voice pulled Qing Xia out of his memories. He raised his eyes and stared at the woman across from him. This time, he withdrew his terrifying aura, gazing at her with mere indifference.
It seemed the driver's voice also snapped the woman out of the deep fear she had been gripped by. She looked at the young man in front of her and hesitantly said, "This variety show may be new, but it's very popular—especially since it's broadcast live 24/7. That means the cameras will catch your every move, so it's better not to cause any trouble. I understand you feel wronged because the company abandoned you and terminated your contract, and this will be your last time in front of the camera. But you can't just act out of anger. Your incompetence is the reason you were rejected only two years after signing the contract. You're the only member of the team who hasn't made any progress as an artist or singer."
Perhaps because Manager Su was still somewhat scared and nervous, she ended up saying a lot more than she intended.
Well, at least it was useful for Qing Xia. He now knew a bit about the owner of this body—not that he could ask for her help or clarification. What was he supposed to say? Excuse me, it seems I lost my memory after closing my eyes for two minutes.
Even more ridiculous would be saying something like, I'm not Xian; I'm the soul of someone else.
Now that he had this body, he was determined to live a good, happy life in this peaceful and beautiful world.
From Manager Su's words, it seemed the person he had taken overworked in the entertainment industry. What did she say? A singer and actor? Well, that was unexpected. Someone like him, who didn't even get the chance to graduate high school, was supposed to live as a singer? At least the company had terminated his contract. He couldn't imagine himself trying to learn how to sing—talent wasn't something you gained just because you inherited a body.
Unfortunately, he didn't even get the original owner's memories.
After analyzing Manager Su's words carefully, Qing Xia felt slightly relieved. Based on what she said, this was the last job he would be doing, and his contract had been terminated. Though he still needed a lot more information, this was better than nothing.
At least he possessed a rough understanding of his situation and his intended destination.
However, participation in any variety show was the furthest thing from his mind; all he truly craved was some delectable food to satisfy his gnawing hunger. After enduring five years in a devastated world, even the simplest sustenance had been tainted and rendered utterly unpalatable.
"I want to devour a platter of grilled meat. I haven't laid eyes on any meat in years," Xian thought, his mouth practically watering as he exited the vehicle.
Manager Su cast a glance at him, let out a sigh, and then proceeded to guide him towards the other contestants who would be joining him for the filming. As they ambled along, she diligently provided him with crucial information, meticulously outlining his responsibilities and the expected conduct during the program.
It was a wilderness survival challenge, where individuals from diverse backgrounds would be secluded in a dense forest for a full 30 days, armed with a meager backpack of provisions. This supply was virtually insignificant, as the food and water contained within would suffice for a mere two days at best.
Naturally, a program like this was hardly befitting a mere "flower vase" like Xian. The other selected participants boasted impressive credentials, including former military operatives, Olympic athletes, and seasoned survival experts.
In essence, they were all formidable and highly competent.
As for the reason a "singer" like him was included, Manager Su had subtly alluded to the fact that this unfortunate soul had managed to antagonize someone he shouldn't have. Wait a moment—wasn't he the one destined for misfortune now?
Xian soon reached the vicinity of the helicopter, where a considerable crowd had already assembled. They appeared to be in a state of anticipation, much like himself, engaged in conversation with their assistants or fellow participants.
Yes, you heard correctly—a helicopter. Who knew the show's producer possessed such extravagant wealth? Given that the program's challenges were set to unfold in a remote forest far removed from urban centers, participants were being transported via helicopter. The live broadcast was scheduled to commence immediately, with the spectacle of participants boarding the aircraft serving as an ideal opening sequence.
One of the assembled participants noticed Xian standing alongside Manager Su, his ears still buzzing from her incessant stream of advice and warnings.
"Hey, look over here! Greetings, young one. Have you perhaps lost your way?" the man inquired, a chuckle escaping him as he exchanged glances with two companions nearby.
This individual sported a healthy, sun-kissed complexion, powerfully defined musculature, and even a hint of facial stubble. His short, brown hair and sharp, narrow eyes contributed to a ruggedly masculine appearance. Despite not appearing exceptionally old, his imposing presence made Xian, with his delicate features, seem positively childlike in comparison.