From Apocalypse To Entertainment Circle (BL) Chapter 4: Scent of Blood: The Mysterious Man

Though Sian's conduct was somewhat severe, such occurrences were not unusual among the competitors. There had even been instances of physical confrontations and more extreme disputes. Consequently, while the others were initially a bit taken aback by Sian's swift reaction, they soon moved past it and resumed their individual activities.

Marco, naturally, was not among those who forgot. He regarded Sian with a murderous gaze, yet he had to proceed with caution as the broadcast was still live. Nevertheless, he vowed to exact retribution upon Sian for the profound humiliation heaped upon him in such an audacious manner. It appeared someone possessed a rather poor memory and had forgotten they were the instigator. Had he not provoked Sian, the latter would not have even deigned to glance his way.

Meanwhile, the man who had been holding the soda can earlier continued to fix Sian with piercing, icy blue eyes. His short black hair framed a visage possessing distinctly Chinese features, were it not for those deep, sea-colored sapphire eyes. Even while seated, he exuded a captivating and potent aura. Standing at precisely two meters tall, his physique, while muscular, was not as overtly exaggerated as some of the other participants, nor did he present himself as an athlete. Despite a subtle smile gracing his lips, the palpable sense of oppression he emanated was undeniable.

Sian had a singular reason for taking note of this individual, analyzing his appearance and bearing.

"This man is not ordinary."

Every flicker of his eyes, every nuance of his demeanor, screamed that this man had been responsible for the deaths of hundreds.

To Sian, the distinct aroma of fresh blood permeated his very being, clinging to his entire presence.

The reason Sian could discern this was simple: he himself had ended the lives of millions in his previous existence—a number far exceeding that of the man seated opposite him. Thus, he trusted his instincts and judgment implicitly.

Yet, what consequence did it hold? As long as the man did not approach or pose a threat, Sian was far too indolent to involve himself in the affairs of others. If not for Secretary Su's insistence that he could not withdraw from this program and that he lacked the financial means to cover the contract breach penalties, he would have absconded from the outset. His sole desires were a comfortable dwelling and nourishing sustenance. He wished to spend the remainder of his days like a hamster, quietly consuming and sleeping.

As for the show and its participants? Who would concern themselves? He would remain indifferent even if they began slaughtering each other directly before him.

Having resolved himself, Sian averted his gaze from the man, who was still scrutinizing him in return while maintaining that disingenuous smile.

Sian had intended to close his eyes and seek a brief respite—perhaps due to his recent reincarnation or the aftermath of a brutal conflict preceding it. Every fiber of his being throbbed with agony. No, it wasn't merely his "body" that ached; it was a profound, soul-crushing pain emanating from his very core.

He fervently hoped this affliction would not be an enduring one. Just as he was about to recline his head against the seat and drift into slumber, a gruff voice, tinged with amusement, resonated from his side.

"Whoa there, kid, I didn't peg you for someone hiding so much power and intensity."

The individual seated adjacent to Sian spoke with evident admiration and excitement coloring his tone.

"Greetings, my name is Liang Zu. I compete in Amateur Boxing and have vied in numerous amateur competitions. My ambition is to join the Enbo Fight Club, which is precisely why I enlisted for this reality show. And you, young man, what is your name?"

This imposing figure, Liang Zu, was the same person who had referred to Sian as a lost child prior to the commencement of filming. While he might have been somewhat irksome with his boisterous nature, he was, at least, an unreserved individual devoid of ulterior motives.

Sian found himself more at ease in the company of those with uncomplicated dispositions and direct actions. He was not at all perturbed by Liang Zu's earlier jesting or his subsequent attempt to foster closer proximity upon witnessing Sian's capabilities. It was only natural for strong individuals to gravitate towards other strong individuals. Consequently, Sian extended his hand, clasped Liang Zu's, and replied calmly, a faint smile playing on his lips.

"Hello! I am Sian. It is a pleasure to meet you."

After shaking Liang Zu's hand twice, he released his grip, adjusted his posture on the chair, and deliberately closed his eyes. He executed these actions with such swiftness that he failed to notice the look of astonishment that crossed Liang Zu's face.

"Hey, kid, is that it?"

Liang Zu felt a surge of happiness when Sian accepted his handshake and had anticipated a proper introduction or, at the very least, a brief exchange to foster mutual acquaintance. He had hoped to establish a rapport with Sian, finding him both aesthetically pleasing and highly competent. However, he had not foreseen the young man offering a handshake lasting mere seconds before returning to his seat, promptly closing his amber eyes.

Mysterious_Toe: "Hahahaha, oh my goodness, I cannot contain my laughter. Observe Liang Zu's utterly stupefied expression."

Mommy's boy: "Hahaha, he wasn't anticipating being ignored by the angel after merely two words."

Crazy_Fish_97: "Hahaha, I'm going to die! I'm dying! I just took a screenshot; I'm going to transform this boxer's face into a meme; it will be hilarious."

Thunder_Toast: "The Boxer: Hello, I'm... and I... also... and this... also...

Sian: Hello, nice to meet you. --- Silence ---" The boxer's attempts at conversation were met with a stark lack of response.

Sleepy_Taco: "Hahaha, that was precisely what occurred, it seems our little angel isn't fond of talking much. I feel for the poor boxer. He's quite the conversationalist, but he encountered... well..."

Paper Boat in the Wind: "From this day forward, I shall tally how many words Xian utters in a single day. I wager he won't exceed ten."

"+1, I'm betting five."

"+1, My bet is seven."

"Twelve."

"+1"

"+1"

"+1..."

Naturally, the architect behind the betting establishment that sprang into existence during the live broadcast remained unaware, failing to notice the ripple effect he had initiated. By the conclusion of the variety show, a considerable number of participants would have either squandered their funds or amassed fortunes, all due to the diverse wagers centered around the audience's cherished little angel.

It appeared that fortune was not favoring Sian on this particular day. Merely moments after closing his eyes, the commentator's voice boomed through the air.

"Esteemed participants, we have reached our designated location. Observe the verdant forest through the window before you. For the ensuing month, this wilderness shall serve as your new abode."

Sian felt a surge of intense irritation. He had finally arrived in a tranquil realm where he could snatch some rest without the constant threat of peril. Yet, instead of indulging in repose and nourishment, he was compelled to endure hardship even in this picturesque world.

"To perdition with everything," Sian muttered under his breath, though he still opened his eyes. His action stemmed not from any interest in the live broadcast or the individuals surrounding him. Rather, it was his desire to survey the forest from above. This translated to an intent to commit to memory the layout of the forest and all significant geographical features currently visible from the helicopter's vantage point. This had invariably become an ingrained, reflexive behavior for Sian.

During his previous existence, he would never set foot upon unfamiliar terrain without meticulously observing and cataloging his surroundings, devising potential egress routes, assessing myriad risks, and leveraging any available element to his advantage—even something as seemingly insignificant as a pebble on the ground.

A fundamental principle that Sian adhered to was that any object or element could be employed and exploited, provided one possessed a sufficiently astute mind to harness its latent capabilities for personal gain.

Admittedly, there was no ongoing conflict or impending catastrophe in this current setting. However, as the adage goes, meticulous preparation is superior to reactive damage control.

Having absorbed as much visual information as possible—including the placement of key locations, mountainous regions, water bodies... Sian resumed his seated position as the helicopter began its descent for landing.