Commentators, social observers, and some more conservative viewers began voicing their concerns across various platforms, their criticisms targeting the core contradiction of Cifera's actions:
"If Cifera claims to be a 'Phantom Thief,' shouldn't she be upholding justice and righteousness?"
"But how can she target a charity auction benefiting the Children's Relief Fund—an organization bearing her own name? What kind of 'justice' is this? What kind of 'righteousness'?"
A lengthy article on a popular forum sparked heated debate.
The article sharply criticized the irony inherent in Cifera's actions:
"She basks in the gratitude of the children's families and Liu Ruyan, the major shareholder of Starry Group, while simultaneously targeting the 'Starry Light,' the auction's centerpiece that sustains this charitable endeavor."
"This is nothing short of blasphemy against the very persona of a 'Phantom Thief.'"
"It's just a variety show, right? True! But precisely this 'game' mentality exposes a deeper problem!"
Another op-ed argued:
"In Cifera's eyes, it seems everything can become a stage for her 'art of deception,' even charitable events carrying significant social weight."
"Her talent is undeniable, even divinely inspired. But if her intentions are corrupt, if she's blinded by her immense fame and the adoration of her fans, treating the boundaries of law and morality as mere child's play...
"Then this 'talent' isn't a societal asset—it could become a grave threat!
"Who can guarantee she won't one day use her 'skills'—this disregard for rules and manipulation of hearts—in far more dangerous arenas?"
Even more concerned critics targeted the very concept of charity itself:
"Tonight's auction, the Starry Charity Auction, brought together luminaries from all walks of life and compassionate individuals. It should have been an occasion brimming with warmth and goodwill.
"But Cifera's high-profile and provocative announcement has cast a dark shadow over this grand event!
"Ask yourself: when guests are constantly on guard, fearing a 'thief' might disrupt the auction or even steal the items, who can focus wholeheartedly on bidding and donating with genuine generosity?
"As a result, charitable contributions will shrink, harming the very children awaiting assistance. Can Cifera bear responsibility for this?
"Is her so-called 'art of deception' to be built on the sacrifices of the vulnerable and the shattering of their hopes?"
"..."
Though not the mainstream opinion, these dissenting voices struck like sharp thorns, piercing the most controversial aspects of Cifera's actions:
The purity of her motives versus the potential negative consequences of her behavior.
They subtly linked the image of "a dazzling variety show star" to labels like "potential societal threat" and "entertainment-obsessed egoist," sparking reflection and anxiety among many.
Faced with this surging wave of criticism, Cifera's supporters swiftly launched a powerful counterattack!
Leading the charge was Liu Ruyan, the other protagonist at the center of the storm.
As a major shareholder of Starry Jewels and the founder of the Cifera Children's Relief Fund and the Charity Auction, she issued a clear and unequivocal statement on her personal social media:
Empress Ruyan:
[I've seen some concerns about tonight's Charity Auction, even doubts about Contestant Cifera's character. I feel compelled to address them.]
[First, naming the fund "Cifera Children's Relief Fund" was my personal tribute and gratitude to Contestant Cifera. This is separate from her identity as a contestant and her goals within the competition.]
[In the show, she's the "Kitty Phantom Thief," and her objective is the "Starry Light"—these are the rules of the game.]
[If she were to be constrained by the Children's Relief Fund's name, that would be an insult to both her identity and her personal abilities.]
[Secondly, Starry Jewels and I warmly welcome Contestant Cifera to 'challenge' us tonight!]
[Protecting the 'Starry Light' is the responsibility of Starry Security and the Pursuit Team's experts.]
[Whether she takes it or we defend it—may the best prevail!]
[This is, after all, a dazzling 'attack and defense spectacle,' the most unique highlight of our charity night!]
[Thirdly, claims of disrupting the auction and fundraising? Pure nonsense!]
[Quite the contrary! [Attached: Screenshot of the Starry Charity Auction's official ticketing platform]]
[See for yourselves! Since the announcement, online and offline attention and ticket sales have soared to unprecedented heights!]
[VIP seats are long sold out, and even regular seats are nearly impossible to secure! [Attached: Real-time ticketing data graph showing a surging sales curve]]
[Data doesn't lie. Contestant Cifera's announcement has brought unprecedented attention and enthusiasm to this charitable event!]
[Even if the 'Starry Light' is ultimately 'stolen,' that's within the rules of the game. It will still return, and we will still auction it off tonight!]
[In the end, I firmly believe in Contestant Cifera's original intentions. Her "deception" is an art of wit and courage, not a descent into moral depravity.]
[Tonight, Starry awaits the arrival of the Kitty Phantom Thief. We invite all our guests to fully enjoy this ultimate showdown between protection and clever acquisition, and to generously contribute, lighting up the beacon of hope for children in need!]
Liu Ruyan's statement, especially the two explosive ticket sales data charts and screenshots, landed like a resounding slap across the face of the "charity donations are being harmed" argument.
Using the most direct evidence, she proved that Cifera's announcement had not deterred attendees but had instead become the event's most powerful catalyst.
Simultaneously, Liu Ruyan's statement ignited a fuse, unleashing a torrent of support:
Many netizens who had already purchased tickets proudly shared their receipts:
[I only rushed to get a ticket because Kitty might show up! How many chances do you get in a lifetime to witness such a "miracle moment" in person?]
[I wasn't interested in the jewelry auction at all, but when I heard the cat was going to "steal" something, I immediately bought a ticket! Consider it supporting charity while watching a grand spectacle!]
[Chairman Liu is right! Cifera's challenge is part of the rules, watching the spectacle is our entertainment, and donating to charity is our purpose—there's no conflict at all! Those who doubt lack vision!]
Even more noteworthy were the statements from prominent business figures and collectors who publicly announced their attendance at the auction:
Tech Tycoon:
[Cifera's announcement has only heightened my anticipation for tonight! If she can steal the "Starry Light" right under my nose, I'll not only be impressed, but I'll also bid fiercely!]
[Price is no object, but I have a small request: I'd love to take a photo with Miss Cifera and the "recovered" Starry Light! That would be the most storied piece in my collection! (Attached image: Electronic invitation to the Charity Auction)]
Renowned Chinese collector Old Li:
[Heh, this old man has seen his share of storms in my long life. Why get worked up over a young girl's playful declaration?]
[Charity is charity, and games are games. If Little Friend Cifera truly succeeds, that's her skill, and I'll offer nothing but my admiration.]
[As for the auction items? Fine treasures always find those who appreciate them. Tonight, this old man will be watching with anticipation. (Attached image: a corner of his private collection)]
Certain CEO of a multinational corporation (posting simultaneously on global social media):
[The audacity and skill of this "Magical Cat" are simply mesmerizing! Her announcement has added an unparalleled level of excitement to this grand event.]
[If she can successfully pull off her "theft" under such tight surveillance, out of pure admiration for her artistry, I will double my planned donation.]
[Yes, I'm willing to pay a premium to "recover" the Starry Light, especially if I can get a photo with this legendary figure!]
These voices from genuine potential buyers, filled with mockery, anticipation, and even a perverse "encouragement" for Cifera to succeed, conveyed a clear message:
Cifera's actions had not diminished the Starry Light's value or appeal; instead, they had imbued it with a unique legendary aura and sensational buzz, making it even more "worth possessing."
To these wealthy buyers, the so-called "impact on charitable donations" was utterly insignificant.
Faced with Liu Ruyan's explosive data and the wealthy elites' provocative remarks, the dissenting voices grew pale and powerless, swiftly drowned in the surging tide of support and anticipation.
The public's attention was completely drawn back to the most thrilling core of the event itself:
Tonight, could Cifera live up to her audacious claims?
And could the Pursuit Team and Starry Security successfully safeguard the priceless Starry Light?
-
Cifera was at her usual coffee shop.
Bang!
After the sudden crash, the café patrons began to chuckle without even looking up.
Clearly, another hot-blooded young man had walked into a lamppost while ogling a pretty woman.
But when they finally glanced at the new unlucky soul, they froze in shock!
Holy shit! The one who crashed into the lamppost wasn't a young man—it was a beautiful woman!
Damn! Is she from Chengdu?
Cifera had long stopped paying attention to the people "broken" by Aglaea's beauty. But when she overheard the nearby chatter, curiosity compelled her to glance over.
The moment she did, a "finding something interesting" smile curved her lips.
This "beauty"... she looked awfully familiar.