Chapter 624: 397 Wanwan Admits to Infringement? What a Gutless Disciple You Are (2nd Update)
After the exhibition began, the organizers took to the stage to give their speeches, which were nothing more than the usual official rhetoric, thanking everyone for attending—remarks that no one was particularly interested in. What came next, however, was the introduction of the exhibiting teachers…
Xi Fangli was arguably the most esteemed artist at this exhibition, and everyone was looking forward to his appearance.
According to the original schedule provided by the organizers, Xi Fangli should have been the first to take the stage. Somehow, at the last minute, the schedule was changed, and he was moved to the very end.
“This organizer sure knows how to create suspense, deliberately putting Master Xi at the end to whet everyone’s appetite,” someone commented.
“I wonder how Tang Wan is feeling right now; she must be very nervous.”
“I’ve been watching her, and it seems she’s been talking to Madam Jiang the whole time. The old lady really does like her. Ever since Old Master Jiang passed away, Madam Jiang has rarely made public appearances. It’s surprising to see her come out today to support Tang Wan.”
“If it turns out that she’s committed infringement, where will the Jiang Family put their face?”
“Perhaps the Jiang Family has already settled things privately with Master Xi.”
…
People whispered and gossiped amongst themselves, but Tang Wan was busy explaining to the old lady each teacher who took the stage, who was esteemed in their field.
As the event proceeded, it was soon Xi Fangli’s turn to speak.
Out of solemn respect for the occasion, he chose to wear a Sun Yat-sen suit today. His demeanor was gentle, his eyes serene, exuding the aura of a recluse who was detached from worldly affairs. For a man considered a master, he carried no pretense.
His extraordinary grace earned him the reverence of his peers.
Many of his contemporary masters were typically compared with the Qiao Family, those who were notoriously difficult to approach, with sharp eyes and an innate fierce presence. In contrast, Xi Fangli, with his mild and humble approach, always wore a smiling face and spoke with innate courtesy—no one could find fault in him.
Whether in his craft or his character, he was a standard to which the industry aspired!
When he took the stage, the host adjusted the microphone for him, and he smiled and said thank you.
“Hello everyone, I am Xi Fangli!”
With the master himself present, there was hardly a need for much introduction—the applause thundered from the crowd, and everyone instinctively sat up straighter, in anticipation of what was to come.
“This is my first exhibition in Beijing; I should have come here sooner, but other matters kept me. I didn’t expect to see so many people in attendance…”
All these were just courteous formalities.
“…I hope you all enjoy the exhibition, and if you have any insights, I welcome you to share them with me. Thank you!”
Having said that, Xi Fangli bowed deeply to the audience, ready to step down.
Everyone was stunned. Was it over just like that? Not a single mention of Tang Wan’s issue?
Seated below the stage, You Congrong’s fingers, resting on her knees, suddenly tightened, her fingernails digging into her palms, drawing beads of blood…
Aside from You Congrong, there were naturally fans who had obtained invitations and infiltrated the event. They had come to witness Tang Wan being publicly questioned and humiliated. But Xi Fangli, without mentioning a word, was about to leave?
This restless fan base couldn’t remain seated any longer!
A fan stood up abruptly and called out, “Master Xi—aren’t you going to address the issue of Tang Wan’s infringement?”
Xi Fangli, who was nearly off the stage, paused slightly upon hearing this.
“We gave you all the evidence. You can’t just ignore it. If you do, does it mean that in the future, anyone can copy your work and you won’t care?”
“Everyone says you are a benchmark in the industry. By acting this way, you’re aiding the tyrant. If copyright infringement runs rampant, you will be held responsible too!”
…
The hall erupted into murmurs. They dared to say it!
“Miss, please mind your words. If you continue to disturb the order, we reserve the right to ask you to leave!” Security immediately stepped forward.
“Even if I am thrown out, I must speak. Master Xi, we all believe you are an upright and honest person. Everyone says you treat your work as if it were your own child…”
“Now someone is harming your child, and you really won’t speak up?”
“With so many fellow artists present, don’t you feel that you’re letting down the title and honor of a master?”
“If this is how you act, you will disappoint us all. You’re unworthy of being called a master, you’re unworthy—”
“Miss, please leave!” In this situation, the security had no choice but to escort her out.
“We thought you were a good person, but you clearly know who the other party is and dare not confront her. What kind of master are you—you’re just fishing for fame and compliments! Don’t touch me—,” she yelled at the top of her voice!
Many in the audience listened with a sense of shock and fear.
Fishing for fame and compliments?
They truly dared to utter those words.
The fan struggled mightily, but she, a petite girl, couldn’t budge the two burly security guards.