The Number One Star in the Interstellar Era

"BY the way, the trailer for the 100th episode of [Blind Justice] will air tonight," Ellis said.

Astrid was a bit surprised by that. "So soon?"

"Well, they already have all the footage they needed. So, it's only natural to release it this fast. In fact, I thought they would be releasing it much sooner."

Astrid almost forgot that the high level of technology in this era made post-editing of movies and TV dramas much faster. 

"Since you didn't want your participation in the episode to be announced yet, the company will not give any statement once people started connecting you to the [Blind Justice] crew," Ellis continued. "You probably have already thought of what most people's reaction would be once they read comments linking you to the show. There would definitely be a lot of mockery and hate. So, I suggest you stay away from [Cyberspace] from a couple of days. At least until the 100th episode is aired."

Of course, Astrid understood what Ellis was trying to say. The moment he told her that there's no need for him to be tagged once the special trailer for the 100th episode was posted, he had already thought of all the possible outcome that might entail. And that included what Ellis said just now.

"Don't worry, Sister Ellis. I'm not really the type to be affected by things being posted online," he said to the other with a smile.

He had ample experience regarding that in his past life that he'd already become immune to it. He remembered being affected by those negative comments at first. Especially when someone told him to die or kill himself. But as years went by, he simply became numb to it. 

He realized that no matter how much those people threw hate comments at him, it would always remain that – a comment. Yes, words did have power. But only if you let them. And he had been through so much already to let a stranger's words affect him.

Ellis had already somehow expected that answer from the other. "That's good to hear. A strong mentality is always needed in this industry."

She just hoped that Astrid could maintain that until the very end. Well, even if he tripped in the middle, wasn't she still here? As his agent, she should provide him with all the support he needed. And since they had already talked about making Astrid a star that would stand at the top, she should also give her very best, right?

"Oh, and also, the crew of [The Sleeping God] contacted me. They informed me that the premier will be held second week of next month. The trailer would probably be released next week," Ellis informed the other. 

Wow. That's only almost two months of post-production. As expected of this era's technology. – Astrid thought. No wonder there were countless of movies being released in a year. 

"Director Trevane decided not to include you in the initial trailer. But after the premier, a second trailer would be released and you'll be included. There would be a promotional wave with the main cast a few days prior to the premier. But after that, they hoped you could join the promotion as well," Ellis continued. "I already agreed. The promotion would most likely be some sort of interview or variety show. Either one would be good for exposure."

Astrid nodded, showing that he didn't mind Ellis' decision. Although he felt a bit amused. The crew of [The Sleeping God] was treating him like he was some big star or something. Not showing him in the initial trailer and then including him once the premier was over, it's like they're sure that he would be a big hit after the premier. 

With the amount of screen time he had in the movie, he could barely be considered as a member of the cast. Normally, he shouldn't be included in the promotion at all. But Director Trevane decided to include him. This showed that the other believed that his role would definitely have a great impact after the movie was released. 

He smiled a bit, happy that the director had that much faith in him. Good thing he was confident that he could live up to that faith.

"After the premier, I believe the MV of the movie's OST – the one sang by Miria Lane – would be released. Since you starred in that as well, next month would definitely be quite busy for you. And if you passed this audition, your busy schedule would start even earlier than that." Ellis glanced at Astrid and saw the teenager smiling. "Happy?"

"I'm always happy to have work," Astrid responded with a grin. 

Ellis also smiled at that.

After a few minutes more of travel, they finally arrived at their destination.

Ellis parked her car at the designated parking lot. Then the both of them got out of the car.

Astrid raised his head and stared at the huge building in front of him. He was a bit surprised to see that the whole building was in the shape of the letter 'K'. It's like it's screaming 'this is the building of Kaleido Entertainment!'. It's completely different from the building of Polaris. But despite the unconventional building shape, this building still covered more area compared to Polaris' building. 

"This building is definitely, hmm, unique, I guess?" he commented.

"It reflects the character of the owner," Ellis said.

"So, they're narcissistic?" 

"One could certainly see it that way," Ellis said, chuckling. "Let's go."

They walked inside the building. As they entered, the first thing they saw was the huge virtual screen floating in the middle of the lobby. It was like a road sign flashing, telling people where they had to go. 

[To those here for [The Great War] audition, please proceed to the 10th floor.]

"Well, now that's convenient," Ellis said before turning to Astrid. "You ready?"

"I'm always ready," Astrid said with a grin. 

Then, the two walked to the elevator that would bring them to the 10th floor.