A Guide for Background Characters to Survive in a Manga

16:

“Are Li Tao, Su Bei, and Feng Lan all prophetic-type superpowers? [hot]”

[Cilantro Sae High No.0:

The second season of ‘Superpowers Reign’ comic has been updated, and I’m sure everyone has seen it. Apart from our Jiang Jiang, Bing Bing, and the adorable Ming Bai, I’m currently most interested in Su Bei and Feng Lan.

From what Teacher Meng said, it seems that Feng Lan is likely to be the next head of the Feng family, known for their prophetic superpowers. He himself said that his superpower is [Prophecy].

As for Su Bei, he claims his superpower is [Gears], but from his various actions, it seems his real superpower is also closely related to prophecy, with the gears he summons serving as a medium for prophecy.

But I find it strange, two people in the same class both have prophetic superpowers. If they were twins or had a blood relation, it would be fine, but looking at their appearances, they probably have no kinship. Why would the old thief design two characters with such similar functions? I don’t want to maliciously speculate that the old thief made a mistake, I hope to find the correct answer on the forum.]

[Bug Flying No.1: Obviously, because Su Bei’s superpower is [Gears], you all are overthinking it!]

[No.2 replies to No.1: Got it, go play.]

[No.3 replies to No.1: Right, right, right, hit the nail on the head. (Someone, please escort the big brother to the idiot bar.)]

[…]

[No.7: I think there must be some fundamental difference between their superpowers, but there’s too little information to see it right now.

But from what we can see at the moment, Su Bei is much more active than Feng Lan, could it be because of the needs of his superpower?]

[No.8: I think Su Bei is so handsome! A mysterious prophet, turning the gears of fate.]

[No.9: Feng Lan is also handsome, my white-haired xp is good! And those golden eyes, truly a divine child untouched by worldly matters!]

[No.10: The old thief’s aesthetic is still trustworthy, a new round of a feast for the eyes has begun!]

【……】

【No.18: It seems we’ve gone off-topic, but I won’t say it.】

【No.19: Speaking of which, do you believe what Su Bei said about everyone having a destiny compass above their heads?

I feel his words are not entirely credible, half-true, half-false. There might really be something above people’s heads, but it’s not necessarily a compass. If there really is a destiny compass controlling people, wouldn’t his casual touching cause problems?】

【No.20 responding to No.19: I also think his words are half-true, half-false, but there doesn’t seem to be anything deceptive about this matter. Tampering with the destiny compass might influence people, but this newcomer with special abilities probably can’t reach that level yet.】

【Coriander Victory No.21 (Original Poster): Actually, I’m curious about something else. Both Feng Lan and Su Bei have come to Class F. Su Bei is most likely here for Jiang Jiang, but what about Feng Lan? Is it really as the homeroom teacher said, that he came to recruit Su Bei?】

【No.22: To be honest, I think both of them came for the trio of Jiang Tianming. After all, they are the protagonist group, so it’s reasonable for them to receive special treatment.】

【No.23: I have a feeling this part will have many new pairings. I’m tired of the same old cross-distribution among the protagonist group.】

【No.24: Then let me be the first

to ship the ill-fated destiny pairing! Jiang Tianming × Su Bei, it’s definitely going to be epic.】

【……】

【Coriander Victory No.30 (Original Poster): Stop derailing the topic, go ship pairings in another thread!】

【No.31: Responding to the main floor’s question, my friend and I discussed it while reading comics, and we unanimously think these two people have the same type of special abilities, either complementary or substitutive.

Of course, there’s also a small chance that the old thief writer brain-farted and forgot to differentiate them.】

【No.32: The person above makes sense. If it’s really one of those two possibilities, I hope it’s the former. Handsome guys, please don’t fight each other!】

Watching as the subsequent posters mostly discussed the previous content, unable to find the new information he wanted, Su Bei directly exited the thread and clicked into another related to himself, one he found more interesting.

《Saluting Destiny, the Most Unfortunate Unlucky One of This Year! 【hot】》

【One Inch Stronger No.0:

Ahhh, so handsome! I declare this to be my favorite line of the year! The collision of mysterious purple and dazzling gold truly amazed me, the old thief’s artistry is undeniable. A light fan of Su Bei, I love handsome guys with a strong presence!】

【No.1: Drop-dead gorgeous, I have a premonition that Su Bei will definitely become the new heartthrob.】

【No.2: +1 to the above, I feel the same way.】

【No.3: This season seems to be brimming with handsome guys, Su Bei, Feng Lan, Si Zhaohua, and even our homeroom teacher Meng Huai, each with their own charm, making me drool with desire.

There’s no shortage of beauties either, like that directionally challenged student who asked them for directions at the start of term, Teacher Han from the infirmary, and that somewhat annoying Baozhu.

Could it be that this year’s old rogue intends to flaunt his artistic skills and treat us to a feast of faces?】

【No.4: Didn’t someone on the forum predict that the academy season would introduce several new key characters, unlike the first season which was dedicated to establishing the main group’s character?】

【……】

【Lev Nikolayevich is also No.11: Speaking of which, am I the only one who thinks Su Bei might not be a good person? Looking at these two scenes of him in the comic, they feel too sinister. Why do I have this vague premonition that he’s a villain?

Su Bei standing outside the classroom.jpg, Su Bei following someone.jpg】

【No.12 replying to No.11: Although Su Bei in these two pictures indeed looks so radiant, I think it’s fine. It’s probably meant to reflect his mysterious persona, not a villainous one, right?】

【No.13: I think No.11 is overthinking it, Su Bei clearly seems like someone who enjoys watching the drama unfold.】

【No.14: Ah, I hope he’s not the villain, I hate villains the most. If he turns out to be one, I’ll instantly switch from fan to hater!】

【No.15 replying to No.14: Have you finished your homework yet?】

【No.16: Elementary schoolers, get off the forum!】

【……】

【No.35: Hold on, it’s not even confirmed that Su Bei is a villain, why are you all arguing already? To be honest, I’ve already sensed this man’s propensity for causing storms of blood and desire, he truly is a sinful man.】

【No.36: The person above is right, the previous ten-plus floors of nonsensical arguing had me dumbfounded.】

【No.37: Is no one planning to discuss the sentence in the title? Before I clicked in, I thought this was supposed to be an analytical topic, but what are you all even talking about?】

【No.38: +1!】

【No.39: +2】

【No.40: +3】

【No.41: +10086】

【……】

【No.86: Although I’m not clear on Su Bei’s exact intentions, I think this statement is quite accurate. To say that Jiang Tianming is the unluckiest person as the protagonist of the comic is completely justified. He truly has a constitution prone to accidents, almost on par with a certain death god elementary student.】

【No.87: Indeed, from this perspective, Su Bei’s prediction is quite precise, carrying a sense of absurdity that breaks through dimensional barriers.】

【No.88: Hahaha, is this the comic author’s self-deprecating humor?】

【No.89: There’s no doubt that the protagonist of this comic is the unluckiest, but I feel that Su Bei’s words aren’t entirely in jest. I always get the feeling that he speaks as if he’s already aware of some conspiracy—like he’s saying, “So it turns out you’re the unlucky one targeted by xxx (some major villain).”】

【No.90: Don’t say it, but it really does feel that way!】

【No.91: The spectator enjoys the play, unshaken by the characters.】

【No.92 responding to No.39: That makes sense. With Jiang Tianming’s kind of ability, it’s only logical for the villain to take notice.

Honestly, I never imagined Jiang’s ability would be like this. I thought he might be able to summon spirits at random, but the neighbor’s right—probably only those he’s killed can be summoned by him.

Such an ability, if not possessed by the protagonist, would definitely fit a major villain. If I were the villain, I’d be tempted too. It would be great to pull people over to my side.】

【……】

【No.119: It feels like we’re getting off-topic, let’s bring the discussion back. Regarding what Su Bei said, if he’s just mocking the protagonist’s luck, then he’s purely an amused spectator.

But if he’s saying Jiang Tianming is unlucky for the reason mentioned by No.89, then the purpose behind his words is worth pondering.

Is it a reminder, a warning, or a threat? If he’s truly just a bystander, he would observe silently, with no need to voice this statement.

In any case, if it’s the possibility mentioned by No.89, then Su Bei himself must have a stance, it’s just unclear which side he’s on.】

【No.120: The one above me is verbose, but I agree. If Su Bei really has a stance, I think we shouldn’t limit ourselves to thinking in terms of heroes and villains. After all, the world isn’t just black and white; maybe he’s part of a third force?】

【One Inch Longer, One Inch Stronger No.121 (Host): Wow! A third force? That would be even cooler, wouldn’t it?!】

【No.122: Host, you really are consistent to the end (facepalm with a bitter smile).】

【Lev Nikolayevich is also No.123: Look what I’ve found! Discovered in another post!

PromoPageCornerSuBei.jpg

So, Su Bei was in the promo page after all. I wondered why such an obvious plot-driving character hadn’t appeared on the promo page, turns out he was tucked away in this tiny corner? You stingy old thief!

Doesn’t my Brother Bei deserve a larger picture?

Alright, no jokes, this promo page further confirms my suspicion. Su Bei might really not be a righteous character, otherwise, why would he only get such a small spot?

And look at this position, right in the shadows, quite gloomy too, isn’t it a stark contrast to the other characters?】

【No.124 replies to No.123: !】

【No.125 replies to No.123: Holy moly! I didn’t notice when I was looking at the promo page, there’s a tiny figure. Brother Bei, how did you shrink? (fog)】

【No.126 replies to No.123: Speaking of which, isn’t that odd? I’m casting my vote for Su Bei being the villain.】

【……】

In the real world.

Lin Xue, who was reading this post, joyfully calls a friend, boasting, “See? Wasn’t I right? That character hidden in the corner is a key player!”

“Alright, alright, you’re amazing.” The friend hadn’t expected Lin Xue to guess correctly.

Lin Xue proclaims, “I declare this is my new favorite, gold and purple are the best combo! I’ve got the money for the millet ready, old thief, I advise you to recognize a good thing.”

After saying this, she suddenly remembers she’s still in a restaurant, facing the astonished looks of those around her, her face flushes red in an instant. She quickly finishes her last bite and stands up, ready to leave this socially fatal place.

However, before she can exit the restaurant, a young man quickly comes over and whispers, “Did you just mention Su Bei?”

At his words, Lin Xue whirls around. Their eyes meet, sparking with the crackle of lightning.

Kindred spirits!

In the world of comics.

Su Bei, having read the post, can’t help but smile. The content of the post has given him a pleasant surprise.】

They not only glimpsed the potential villainous identity he might possess but also provided him with many new ideas for his upcoming portrayal.

Indeed, at first, he thought of navigating between the black and white sides, then settling on the identity that gained more popularity.

But now, who says there are only black and white identities in this world? Isn’t it more interesting to wander in the gray area in between?

Perhaps he could even use the forum to truly create a third-party organization that transcends both the black and white paths.

With class about to start, Su Bei stopped browsing the forum. The content was not out of control, and the discussions were entirely within his expectations, requiring no deliberate guidance.

So, taking advantage of the last few minutes, Su Bei quickly posted a thread he had long thought out. He was about to lay the groundwork for his forum persona.

“【Prophetic Post】The Hidden Dragons and Crouching Tigers of Class F!!!”

【Prophet No.0: Currently, Jiang Jiang and Bing Bing are likely to stay in Class F for a long time. Therefore, according to the protagonist’s law (that is, the protagonist is always surrounded by many important characters), Class F should have many key figures.

Based on my research of the first chapter, these characters in Class F should have significant storylines.

【Prophecy】The storm of special abilities, the fate-representing Su Bei, the first self-introducing Zhao Xiaoyu, the two male students running first and last in the race, and the homeroom teacher Meng Huai.

In the name of the prophet, the goal is 100% accuracy. Everyone is welcome to come and verify the posts later!】

As a bona fide member of Class F, even though he couldn’t see the future plot, Su Bei had the advantage in predicting the storyline over other readers because he could observe many details not depicted in the comics.

The people he mentioned in his post were probably unnoticed by other readers. And since these individuals indeed had unique identities, no one would suspect him of cheating even if he revealed them.

Most importantly, even if his predictions about a few individuals were wrong and they had no special storyline, it didn’t matter. Su Bei could actively involve them in the comic scenes, forcibly adding storylines to maintain his “prophet” reputation.

For his next post, he planned to predict the culprit or something similar. With two successful posts as a foundation, he could then start to bluff to his heart’s content.

After posting, Su Bei didn’t wait to see the replies; he turned off his phone and left the restroom. He was laying the groundwork; the current replies were irrelevant to him.

In fact, if he didn’t have just one account, Su Bei would have used an alternate account to downplay himself in the post.

Not long after returning to the classroom, class began. Meng Huai, dressed in black, entered, “I am your special abilities practice teacher. No need for self-introductions, right?”

As he spoke, he walked to the podium, scanning the crowd, “First, a few announcements. The first is about the appointment of the class president. Mu Tie Ren, you are to be the president of Class F. Any objections?”

Mukitetsu was the boy who led the pack during yesterday’s running circles, and after finishing, he even helped some classmates who couldn’t hold on any longer into the infirmary.

Appointing him as class president met with no objections from anyone. Of course, the peaceful consensus was partly because this was Class F; had it been Class A, there would likely have been competition for the position.

“Next, I have to say—” Meng Huai revealed a sarcastic smile as he read out a long list of names, “Zhao He, Li Weide… Chang Sisi, you few have been advised by the school to withdraw and may now contact a regular high school.”

As soon as these words were spoken, there was an immediate uproar. Especially those whose names were called, they all looked incredulous.

Admittedly, their abilities were quite useless, but since they had chosen to come here, they wanted to obtain the “Special Ability Usage Permit.” Without this permit, they would no longer be able to use their abilities in public places.

How could they accept this?

However, before they could even voice their doubts, Meng Huai, as if foreseeing their questions, said, “Are you wondering why I advised you to withdraw? Didn’t you few fail to complete ten laps yesterday?”

The truth was laid bare; this was the reason they were being advised to withdraw!

Now, the others had no objections, but those few were clearly not convinced. Zhao He’s face flushed with warmth, “Teacher, I know it was our fault we didn’t finish the laps yesterday, but isn’t withdrawal as a punishment a bit too severe?”

With him speaking up, the others found their backbone. Chang Sisi’s eyes were already red, “Teacher, I was wrong, I will never cut corners again. I’ll go run ten laps right now… no, twenty laps, can you please not withdraw me?”

“Yes, yes, yes! Us too!” the others echoed.

Seeing them plead so earnestly, many students were moved and wanted to speak on their behalf.

Yet, Meng Huai was unmoved, he even wanted to make an example of them, “Don’t put on such a pitiful act, the school’s advice for you to withdraw is for your own good.”

“Being a special ability user is a dangerous profession, all ability users have a fatal attraction to shadow beasts. Even Class F ability users, after using their abilities too much, will attract shadow beasts, after all, even a small mosquito is still flesh. The school has gathered you together to teach you, in hopes of reducing casualties among ability users.”

This was common knowledge, otherwise, just for a “Special Ability Usage Permit,” so many Class F students who had given up on their abilities wouldn’t waste their time attending school.

“You’re not like students from other classes who have a certain self-preservation ability; you almost only have yourselves to rely on. So for your own safety, listening to the teacher and training seriously should be an absolute rule that each of you follows. But clearly, you few who slacked off on the first day lack this awareness.”

These words left the few red-faced; they hadn’t thought that far, they just saw ten laps as too many and couldn’t help but slack off.

“Rather than letting you obtain a ‘Special Ability Usage Permit’ through unserious training and opportunism, which when used in society could attract shadow beasts and harm others and yourselves, it’s better to directly advise you to withdraw to prevent this possibility.”

Having said this, Meng Huai was no longer willing to waste time, “Alright, now please leave the classroom. If you have any issues, you can go talk to the principal. If the principal agrees for you to come back, then you can return.”

Although he said that, Meng Huai knew the principal would never agree, as the suggestion to “persuade a few students from Class F to drop out” at the start of the school year was proposed by the principal himself.

Students from Class F could hardly eliminate the nightmare beasts, and their presence in the school was simply a waste of resources, also hindering their learning time in a regular school. Persuading them to leave was for everyone’s benefit.

The students were reluctant, but Meng Huai’s robust physique was so intimidating that they didn’t dare linger in the class, and one by one, they left the classroom.

After they had gone, Meng Huai acted as if nothing had happened. Without using this as a warning to the other students, he began the lesson directly: “Now, bring forth your special abilities, and while using them, focus on sensing what you have lost.”

It was common knowledge that using special abilities consumed mental energy, so what Meng Huai wanted everyone to feel was the sensation of losing that energy.

Su Bei had used his special abilities numerous times the day before and had deeply experienced the feeling of mental energy depletion. He casually summoned an ordinary gear, then turned to look at Feng Lan.

The other was a genuine “Prophecy” ability user, and Su Bei was curious to see what it looked like in use.

Because he had turned around, he didn’t notice Jiang Tianming and Lan Subing behind him, who had been paying attention to him due to experiencing his ability. They looked at the plain gear on his desk with evident confusion.

The difference from the gear they had used the day before was stark; one was a common hardware part, the other a collectible work of art.

How could there be such a disparity?

Feng Lan didn’t mind using his ability in front of others, but the manifestation of his ability wasn’t as grand as Su Bei had imagined.

The white-haired boy bowed his head, closed his eyes, and brought his hands together, his body faintly radiating white light. In a moment, he opened his eyes, a flash of gold disappearing as quickly as it appeared. His already pale complexion turned even paler, and his lips lost much of their color, leaving him looking somewhat fatigued.

“I see commotion in this class,” he said.

Clearly, it was a prophecy. Su Bei paused, then realized something: “Do you mean there will be a quarrel in this class? Between students and the teacher or among the students themselves?”

However, Feng Lan shook his head. He had only recently awakened his ability and didn’t have strong control over it: “This time, I only foresaw the event and the timing.”

Hearing this, Su Bei wasn’t disappointed. Instead, he put on an understanding face and said deliberately, “That’s okay, it’s the same for everyone.”

This response made Feng Lan suddenly look up, asking the question Su Bei had been hoping for: “‘Everyone’? Do you know any other ‘Prophecy’ ability users?”