Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Zelena chuckled. "Haha, nothing, I was just asking. Anyway, I'll hang up now."

With that, Zelena hung up first.

Hattie was puzzled, not understanding what Zelena meant.

But she would soon find out.

Violeta's popularity was soaring.

People were commenting about her everywhere online.

Mainly driven by two waves of interest.

Even within the industry, people were talking about her.

They said this was the grandest debut for a newcomer.

The other three from the company were overshadowed by Violeta.

Brandon didn't mind, since their future paths were different.

Chad didn't care either, as male and female artists weren't in direct competition.

The biggest victim was Tracy.

Tracy had hoped the company's official announcement would bring her some attention.

Although people did talk about her, the focus was more on Violeta. It made Tracy and Winnie even more resentful of Violeta.

They were furious.

...

The company didn't show favoritism as they treated everyone equally.

But the agents' methods to promote their artists differed and it showcased the agents' abilities.

Eugene was adept at riding the wave of popularity, managing the Facebook account, and sharing numerous updates about 'The Quiet Ode.'

He also bought some trending spots.

Eugene knew what the gossip-hungry public wanted.

With a few strategic keywords, he stirred up a storm.

Lydia and Violeta'

Apex's Top Gun successor Violeta'

Violeta and Eugene'

By bringing Lydia, a beloved figure, into the controversy, Eugene ensured attention.

Lydia was Eugene's previous artist and Apex's top star.

She had been his prized possession.

But now, she had left Apex and was no longer Eugene's artist.

Eugene had been betrayed and he wouldn't just forget that.

So when it was time to use her name, Eugene didn't hold back from using Lydia to boost Violeta's fame.

No one could play the hype game better than Eugene.

He was the only one bold enough to do so.

He turned private gossip into public drama.

This caused a massive stir and Lydia's fans were furious.

What the hell?'

How dare a newcomer step on our star! Who do you think you are?' They flooded Violeta's Facebook with insults and sarcastic comments. Violeta's comment section and private messages were overrun.

Eugene had informed Violeta in advance when he bought the trending spots.

"Beauty, if you're with me, you need to withstand the storm. Glory and criticism come together."

He thought Violeta would refuse to let him do that to push her into the spotlight.

Eugene had even prepared some excuses. He was also ready to keep her phone if necessary, to prevent her from viewing the backlash.

But Violeta's reaction was far from what Eugene expected.

She remained calm. "I'm fine with whatever, Mr. Scott. Do what you think is best. I trust you."

Eugene was stunned.

"Beauty, aren't you afraid of being scolded by the public?"

Violeta was at ease. "Mr. Scott, any publicity is good publicity. I've already prepared myself mentally. Go ahead."

"Great! Awesome!"

Eugene was even more impressed with Violeta.

He didn't expect her to handle pressure so well.

For a wealthy and pampered girl, it was impressive not crying or throwing tantrums. But to withstand public criticism was another level. Violeta's resilience exceeded Eugene's expectations.

If Lydia had been as resilient, she wouldn't have taken an extra year to become famous.

But back then, Eugene's connections

weren't as extensive, and Lydia had

no background. Her rise to fame

nov

was tough, so it's not a fair

comparison.

"Beauty, while I can't promise you'll be the top actress in the future, you don't have to be worried about taking the position of Apex's Top

Gun. No one can snatch it from you."

Despite being a man, Eugene's ability to handle drama was unmatched. He had great tactics.

Lydia's side had been ignoring the online battle.

Outsiders couldn't see through the murky waters, but insiders knew exactly who bought the trending spots.

The one who benefited most was the buyer.

Seizing the momentum, 'The Quiet Ode' premiered at 8 PM.

The earlier trailers depicted the scenery beautifully. Though it was a web series, Wade's work was still the top choice for classic heroes enthusiasts.

Both industry insiders and outsiders were watching the web series' prospects.

Moreover, with the storm Violeta's debut had caused, Lydia's fans were ready at 8 PM, prepared to screenshot and criticize Violeta's performance.

So, when 'The Quiet Ode' released all seven episodes at 8 PM.

Within ten minutes, the viewership hit a million.