It was early morning, but the studio was already buzzing with activity.
Lina had been invited to appear on her first live variety show—a panel-format program known for catching celebrities off guard with challenges, dares, and unscripted questions.
Sora was thrilled.
"You've officially made it," she grinned as she adjusted Lina's mic. "Just keep it light and funny. Let them see that you're not just mysterious—you're relatable too."
Lina gave a tight nod, nerves thrumming through her like current.
> [System Alert: Stress Levels Elevated | Cognitive Delay Predicted]
Skill Boost Suggested: Activate "Photographic Recall" for On-Air Composure?
"…Yes," Lina whispered.
> [Photographic Recall Activated | Social Buffer Mode: Engaged]
The tension eased like someone placing a calming hand on her spine.
She could breathe again.
---
On stage, the lights were blinding, the crowd louder than expected, and the host already grinning like he had something scandalous planned.
"Welcome, Lina Vale," he said. "Internet sensation, fashion darling, and maybe… someone's girlfriend?"
The crowd oohed.
Lina smiled coolly. "Maybe someone imaginary's girlfriend."
Laughter.
The host leaned in. "We heard Kael Marlowe gave you a custom dress and a very expensive ride home."
Lina tilted her head. "If I told you I took the bus, would you believe me?"
More laughter.
But her pulse thudded.
---
During a break, someone approached her backstage—a lean woman in red heels and a too-smooth smile.
"Lina Vale," she said, offering a perfectly manicured hand. "I'm Aeri Song. I represent one of the top management firms in Seoul. We've had our eye on you."
Lina shook her hand politely, guarded.
"I'm flattered."
Aeri's gaze was sharp. "Be careful with who you align with. Men like Kael Marlowe don't come without damage. And damage spreads."
Lina froze for just a breath.
Then she smiled.
"Good thing I come with a firewall."
She turned and walked away, heels silent but spine straight.
> [System Update: Threat Profile Logged – Aeri Song. Intent: Undisclosed.]
---
After the show, Riven Tao was waiting by the side entrance.
She didn't expect him.
He held up a USB stick.
"Something you should hear. Someone edited your voice in that Mira clip. Tried to make it sound like you lied in that school incident."
Lina took it slowly. "And you found the original?"
"Yes. And the editor's IP."
"You're really not a normal sound guy, are you?"
He shrugged. "Normal people don't survive long in this business."
As he turned to go, he added, "Be careful who smiles at you, Vale. Sometimes it's just to hide the teeth."
---
Later that night, Kael sent her a short text:
> "The woman who spoke to you—Aeri Song—her firm handles reputation demolitions. She's Mira's new sponsor."
Lina stared at the message for a long time.
Then replied:
> "I'm not afraid of wolves. I grew up in the dark."