Omae Wa Mou... Shindeiru

--- Ren's POV ---

As I stepped into the classroom, I couldn't help but be impressed by its elegant design. The desks were meticulously arranged in neat rows, creating a sense of order and purpose. The architectural details of the room added to its charm, with ornate moldings and large windows that allowed natural light to filter in. The combination of these elements evoked a feeling of nostalgia, reminding me of the countless hours I had spent here in pursuit of mastering the art of acting.

While my acting skills were already commendable, the real challenge lay in refining them without needless complexity.

In the beginning, I was under the impression that flawlessness equated to believability, leading me to overcomplicate my acting. Yet, the revelation came later that perfect acting could sometimes be a hindrance. Integrating genuine aspects of my personality into the act lent a sense of authenticity, a technique I had perfected over time. It wasn't a dramatic transformation, but rather a seamless interplay between roles that ultimately made my performances more convincing.

It was like instead of adding layers upon layers, I was free to work only with what I needed.

Instructor Kei played an important role in guiding me to this realization, deconstructing the very essence of acting itself. For this, I was grateful, especially on a day like today when I required an exceptional demonstration.

As I scanned the future child actors, my gaze promptly landed on him. How could I not recognize the very figure I had envisioned annihilating countless times over the past 13 years? My attention, however, was equally distributed among the young faces present, granting each a fleeting smile to set a lighthearted tone.

"Good day, everyone. Whether or not you're familiar with me is not important. I am Hashibara Ren, and my presence here is driven by a belief that what I'm about to share will serve you well. You've heard from Instructor Kei that practice and determination are the cornerstones of acting—vital wisdom I agree with. But, today, I intend to address a different matter, one that pertains to your future..."

Pausing deliberately, I let my words linger, allowing them to weave through the minds of these aspiring actors. I locked eyes with each individual, conveying sincerity and depth in my gaze.

Some faces held a hint of condescension as if I were a mere firework fading into the night sky. Others radiated enthusiasm, surprised by the immediacy of encountering someone with a reputation they recognized. But one pair of eyes remained impenetrably indifferent—a gaze that ignited curiosity rather than expectation.

"However, I'm not here to reiterate what Instructor Kei has likely conveyed far better than a kid like me could. Instead, my purpose is to caution you about the harsh realities of this industry. Don't be deceived into thinking that talent alone will pave your path to success. In this line of business, being good at what you do is merely the foundation. You must also be vigilant against pitfalls, as I've witnessed many peers crumble due to their naivety or youth. Strengthen your mental resilience, and rely on your judgment and the guidance of your assigned assistant—an experienced adult who can understand things much better than you and is there, as the name says, to take care of what you yourself cannot do. If you find my words redundant, feel free to disregard them. Our paths may cross again when your fall will be but a matter of time."

The impact of my words reverberated through the room, sparking reactions as diverse as the personalities before me. I had spared no sugarcoating, aiming to shatter illusions and foster genuine growth. Pride might be wounded, but I'd rather wound it now than watch them shattered by this unforgiving world later.

...At least, that was what this kind of persona would think.

"Who do you think you are? Just because you've been a little successful so far, to come here and lecture us?"

Intriguingly, there's already a Queen Bee in the midst. Even more fascinating.

I halted Instructor Kei from interjecting with a casual wave of my hand. Ah, this situation is rather funny.

"Me? Well, I've managed to navigate this industry's tumultuous waters for quite a few years now. I've picked up a thing or two about how young talents like you, a budding child actor, can avoid stumbling. And you? Who might you be to offer such impolite remarks when someone extends a courteous gesture?"

Throughout this exchange, my smile never left my lips, as I had anticipated her next move all too well.

Just like a secondary character from a mediocre manhwa, she stood from her seat loudly enough to make a small commotion as she raised her trembling finger in my direction, fueled by visible anger.

"You... we don't need your nonsensical advice! How dare you speak to me in such a manner. You have no idea who my parents are!!"

A hearty laugh escaped me, akin to someone sharing a particularly amusing joke.

"I asked about who you are, yet you opted to bring up your parents instead. I've no intention of engaging in a spat with a child like you, so I'll extend the question to the others. If my words genuinely strike you as unnecessary, then I will not insist. I'll honor your wishes and hope you all manage to persist until our paths cross on the same stage. Truly, that's one of the most splendid facets of this profession."

As anticipated, when the self-proclaimed Queen Bee sought out supporters, nearly everyone discreetly averted their gazes. Curious as to why, you might ask.

Well, it's a confluence of factors, but mainly due to her inability to firmly establish her presence within the group. On the contrary, I hold the status of a formidable boss-level adversary. When choosing between a fledgling Queen Bee, fixated on gaining subordinates, and a genuine individual wanting to provide valuable advice, the majority would naturally side with the latter—unless they're utterly foolish.

The Queen Bee, her cheeks flushed, returned to her seat in silence. Not a word escaped her lips as her gaze was diverted elsewhere...

Cute.

It's a tad eccentric, I admit, to find someone I should view as an enemy adorable. However, the truth is, she's far too inconsequential. Even if she did run to her parents to complain, she'll eventually grasp the depth of my reputation on her own.

Were she to attempt anything, she'd merely render herself a target for the media. Furthermore, it's worth noting that I'm not lacking in influential connections myself. Since my personal success, my father ascended the corporate ladder, occupying a high-ranking position. Consequently, even without my current network, I am untouchable.

You are yet another pawn.

Thus, since everyone wanted to let me finish speaking, I continued.

---

Author's note:

Why the title? Cause this girl never had a chance in the first place.