Chapter 104: The Truth (Part Two)

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Story Created: October 2006
Recommended Song: 5566 – "I'm Sad"
Disclaimer: This story is purely fictional. Please do not associate it with real people or events. Any resemblance is purely coincidental!

Setting down the injury report, Li Ran picked up another document. On the large screen, a slideshow appeared simultaneously: “This is Jiang Yihan’s schedule for the latter half of 2005. Take a look—over six months, Jiang Yihan only appeared at Li Nankui’s ‘Celebrity Sports Meeting.’ In fact, Jiang Yihan had no plans to take on any other engagements, focusing solely on his film work. Senior figures like Kang Hodong and Yoo Jae-suk invited him multiple times, but Jiang Yihan declined, and these veterans understood. I don’t know what Li Nankui was dissatisfied with, but in the end, Jiang Yihan still appeared on his show and put in genuine effort. What more grievances could he possibly have? If there are any complaints, they should be about how Jiang Yihan’s injury severely delayed the film’s production after participating in the show. Therefore, on behalf of ABC Company, I strongly condemn Li Nankui’s conduct as a senior figure. Please act like a respectable elder and don’t embarrass us juniors.”

After Li Ran finished speaking, Li Nankui, sitting in front of the television, furiously flipped the table before him and unleashed a torrent of curses, frightening everyone around.

Yet at the press conference, Li Ran pressed on without pause. Next came the originally thorny issue concerning Producer Li, which now favored Jiang Yihan greatly. Li Ran spoke little but presented two pieces of evidence: a summons from the prosecutor’s office and a bank account statement belonging to Producer Li.

“I think this makes things perfectly clear. Producer Li abused his position to accept bribes for arranging artists on programs. I won’t list the names of those who bribed him, as the prosecutor’s office will provide the verdict. Producer Li also demanded bribes from us, but we refused, so he chose to retaliate. Do you think someone like him is trustworthy?” Li Ran smirked contemptuously, which infuriated Producer Li watching live, his anger nearly boiling over. “Also, look at the massive deposits in Producer Li’s account within three days before and after this press conference. Nobody believes there’s no foul play. Perhaps the prosecutor’s office will uncover the mastermind behind this.”

Producer Li recalled the time Li Ran knelt before him, trying to brighten his mood, but the summons from the prosecutor’s office sitting at home made any cheer impossible. Indeed, as the Chinese saying goes, “He who laughs last, laughs best.”

Next, the large screen showed Lin Erxiang. “I just want to say that what I said before deceived everyone. The truth is, Castle should know better than I do what kind of person Jiang Yihan really is. My words alone can’t decide that. I’m truly sorry for lying. Sorry.”

Lin Erxiang’s words left people puzzled, with the only clear message being that his prior statements were false. In fact, Lin Erxiang’s appearance today took great courage, as he is still one of Cheng Shi’s artists, and such a move risks trouble. But Cheng Yu’s words lingered in Lin Erxiang’s mind: “Brother Erxiang, if this is what you want, I’m very disappointed. I always thought you wanted to prove yourself with your talent, but I didn’t expect you to resort to such means to achieve success.”

Cheng Yu’s brief words carried tremendous weight. After much thought, Lin Erxiang recorded this statement, regretting having been tempted in the first place.

The real shock among viewers was Castle’s reaction. The line “Castle should know better than I do” rendered everyone speechless. Any rebuttal felt weak and futile. Indeed, Jiang Yihan once said he thought others understood him better than himself, but he was mistaken. Castle fell silent; the truth was already a heavy blow, and now they were even more shocked by their own failure to believe the young master.

When the anonymous reporter’s files appeared before everyone, no further explanation was needed to realize they had been deceived again. Yet Li Ran continued, “I believe you insiders know better than I do. To fully trust such a reporter without reservation is laughable and absurd! I won’t deny that I punched him once—for his rudeness and defamation. Here I vow not to forgive anyone who writes false news, absolutely!”

Most journalists at the scene shuddered again, while those previously bribed and spreading false information began to reconsider what might lie ahead.

The unexpected appearance of Sister Yin surprised everyone. Nobody expected her to reappear. Li Ran himself didn’t know how it happened—only Li Tong knew that a certain boss had been instrumental. Sister Yin had uncovered Producer Li’s misdeeds, and Li Tong had facilitated the connections to handle it. However, why this boss was so enthusiastic remained a mystery worthy of study.

Sister Yin did not explain her previous statements but cryptically said, “There are many meaningful and layered things in our circle. Someone offered me a price to say those words, and those lies were worth that price.” She produced a check with zeros that dazzled the eyes. “I’m here today only to say that facts aren’t established by talking—they exist inherently. Alright, I’ll cash this check and leave it at that.”

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A wave of murmurs swept through the viewers in front of the television. Sister Yin’s words made everyone realize how terrifying the interplay of power and money in this industry truly is. This was the second time since the January 2005 X-Files incident that the entertainment world was shaken to its core—this event’s impact was no less astounding.

For most, Li Yimei’s words held little significance, but for Castle, they were the hardest to accept. When Li Yimei fully recounted the story, clarifying the entire situation rather than relying on the paparazzi’s half-truths that blamed her fickleness for the breakup, the matter finally reached a conclusion.

“How much of today’s news is meaningful, and how much is not, I don’t know,” Li Ran continued, turning his gaze toward the live camera. “I only know that for those watching this press conference now or learning about today’s events later, I hope you can restore Jiang Yihan’s innocence. Today’s press conference is not an appeal, not criticism, not a leak—just a statement of fact.”

“This has been a farce from the start. I believe some people have been pulling strings behind the scenes to ruin Jiang Yihan’s reputation. Indeed, they succeeded, because of irresponsible journalists and widespread distrust. I don’t want to say much more now—just know the truth is as presented. Think about what you feel now, then consider what Jiang Yihan must have felt back then. That’s enough. This press conference ends here. That’s the first matter.” Li Ran concluded decisively.

With the facts laid bare, the impact on everyone had been substantial, and Li Ran chose not to elaborate further.

“Remember I said there would be two matters today? Now, onto the second.” Li Ran took a large box from the table. “Do you know what this is?” Before anyone could react, he continued, “These are court summonses for ninety-six news media outlets. This is how we are handling the matter—we have formally filed a case and will resolve this legally.”

Ninety-six news agencies being sued simultaneously was a first in Korean history, and rare worldwide. Everyone was stunned.

Li Ran took the summonses from the box and laid them out across the table, filling it entirely. The screen behind lit up again, displaying all ninety-six media names. Many reporters anxiously searched for their company’s name.

“The court summons summarizes the matter and represents my stance,” Li Ran added. “However, Jiang Yihan feels the incident has gotten too big; he’s tired and doesn’t want to pursue it further. The harm you caused him made him disheartened; he just wants his innocence restored and will not press charges. That’s Jiang Yihan’s kindness. But as for me, letting you off is impossible. I have applied for these summonses. When the time comes, you will have to answer inquiries, and for the next ten years, our company and Jiang Yihan reserve the right to pursue your legal liabilities.”

Hearing Jiang Yihan’s wish to end things, many breathed a sigh of relief. But Li Ran’s next words shattered their hope.

“The following ten media outlets, on behalf of Jiang Yihan and all ABC artists, I announce will no longer be granted interviews by us.” Li Ran dropped another bombshell and read out the ten media names one by one. It was clear these ten were the ones who had accepted bribes, stirred chaos behind the scenes, and fanned the flames.

This declaration demonstrated ABC Company’s determination to see this through and made the media that sought revenge reconsider. Even the summons alone was enough to instill fear.

“Finally, some words from Jiang Yihan himself.” Li Ran wasted no time, moving to the last segment. The large screen lit up again, showing Jiang Yihan in casual clothes, looking somewhat weary with faint dark circles under his eyes. He sat casually on a sofa and recorded the following:

“Hello, everyone, I’m Jiang Yihan. The past few months have been tumultuous. You’re tired, and so am I. I don’t want to say much more. I’ve always been who I am now, whether you believe me or not—I’ve never changed. I once said all my success came from the audience and the media. Now you’ve taken that all away. You’ve seen the outcome you wanted—I don’t know if you’re happy. From now on, I’m a newcomer again, starting over with nothing. I’ll work hard. Right now, I just want to do what I should. I won’t hope for trust anymore; one hurt is enough. To those who don’t trust me, I wish you happiness. To those who trust me, thank you—really, thank you!” Jiang Yihan stood, bowed to the camera, and the screen went dark.

“Are you happy with this outcome?” That was Jiang Yihan’s question, one shared by the reporters on-site and Castle watching on television.

Li Ran said nothing further and announced the end of the press conference.

Jang Dong-gun exited the VIP room, seeking Li Ran, while his manager went to the main hall. Before anyone could stand, Jang Dong-gun’s manager issued a brief statement that stunned everyone: “I, Jang Dong-gun, unconditionally believe in and support Jiang Yihan!” After saying this, the manager disappeared.

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These simple words left everyone speechless. There was too much news today—so much that it overwhelmed the mind. As South Korea’s top star this year, Jang Dong-gun had received unanimous official and public recognition, his reputation reaching great heights. Although the media speculated whether his invitation to the press conference was a sign of support, this straightforward and bold backing stunned everyone.

Regardless of how the press conference shocked the media, disrupted the industry, and made viewers reflect, one fact was clear: Jang Dong-gun and Jiang Yihan had met.

“Ah, Dong-gun hyung, why are you here?” Jiang Yihan was composing in the studio and looked genuinely happy to see the unexpected visitor.

“Why aren’t you welcoming me?” Jang Dong-gun smiled, ruffling Jiang Yihan’s hair affectionately. He truly regarded Jiang Yihan as a younger brother in the industry. “You got into such big trouble and called me so many times without telling me a word. What’s the point of calling me your hyung then?”

“Huh? Hyung, you know?” Jiang Yihan stuck out his tongue. “I was worried you’d get caught up if you spoke out for me.”

“What nonsense! Don’t do that next time. I truly see you as my brother. If you need help, who else am I going to help? Besides, this whole thing is ridiculous and absurd. I don’t know what those media and audiences were thinking!” Jang Dong-gun grumbled, still displeased. “Enough bad news. So, what’s your plan these days?”

“Preparing an album and just started filming a new movie,” Jiang Yihan said, feeling warmed inside.

“Speaking of movies,” Jang Dong-gun said, brightening as he thought of something in his field, “Your film from earlier this year is a hit across Asia. A few directors mentioned wanting to cast you. Have they contacted you?”

Jiang Yihan and Li Ran exchanged a wry smile. Jang Dong-gun realized the context. “Ah, about the previous matter! Really.” Then he slapped his thigh. “Let me help you contact some people and find some opportunities.”

“Hyung, isn’t that a bit much?” Jiang Yihan hesitated, but a look from Jang Dong-gun made him set aside his doubts and trust him to handle things.

Jang Dong-gun’s fondness for Jiang Yihan was evident in his words. Likewise, Lee Hyori and Kang Hodong showed no less support—both called soon after the press conference.

Though this incident caused serious negative effects, it also gave Jiang Yihan a deeper, more profound understanding of society and the entertainment world.

For Jiang Yihan and ABC Company, it was a moment of cautious hope and celebration; for the media, a lively upheaval; for Castle, a storm of turmoil; and meanwhile, MS Company was brewing a massive tempest of its own!

Enough chatter for today. This concludes the second update. Thank you all for your support!