The First Offer
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Aaron could still hear the applause ringing in his ears.
His first live gig. A success.
But before he could even process the moment, the man in the suit stepped forward.
"Great performance," the man said smoothly, extending a business card. "I'm Jason Cole, talent scout for Neon Pulse Records. Ever heard of us?"
Aaron's heart pounded. A label scout? Already?
He kept his face neutral. "Yeah. Independent label, right?"
Jason smirked. "That's one way to put it. We've got a few artists climbing the charts. And I think you could be one of them."
Aaron glanced at the card. His fingers tightened around it. Too fast. This was moving way too fast.
But the system had other ideas.
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[New Feature Unlocked: Contract Analysis]
Ability: Automatically detect and analyze industry contracts
Effect: Highlights risks, hidden clauses, and negotiation points
Bonus: Provides optimal signing strategy
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Aaron nearly choked.
A contract analysis feature?
This system was a goldmine.
Jason didn't notice Aaron's momentary shock. "Let's talk business. You free tomorrow?"
Aaron hesitated. He had just stepped onto the stage for the first time. Signing a contract already felt… dangerous.
But the system had given him a tool to navigate it.
He met Jason's gaze. "I'm listening."
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The First Business Meeting
The next day, Aaron walked into Neon Pulse Records' office.
The place screamed "small but growing." Posters of rising indie stars lined the walls. A few employees hustled between desks.
Jason led him to a sleek conference room and slid a contract across the table.
"Standard deal," Jason said. "We fund your first album, handle marketing, and push you into the spotlight. In return, we take 50% of royalties and retain ownership of your masters."
Aaron forced himself to keep a straight face. Fifty percent? Ownership of masters?
He tapped the contract. The system immediately activated.
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[Contract Analysis: High Risk]
Royalties Split: 50% (Industry Average: 30-40%)
Masters Ownership: Label Retains (Risk: Loss of Creative Control)
Advance Payment: $10,000 (Fair, but Locks You In)
Hidden Clause: "Exclusive Representation" (Prevents Signing with Other Labels)
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Aaron barely stopped himself from smirking. This system was a cheat code.
Jason watched him closely. "It's a good deal for a new artist. Trust me."
Aaron leaned back, pretending to think. He needed leverage.
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Playing the Game
Aaron exhaled. "I appreciate the offer. But I'm not signing without adjustments."
Jason raised an eyebrow. "You're new, kid. You don't have leverage."
Aaron shrugged. "Maybe. But I have potential. And I know my worth."
Jason studied him, then sighed. "What do you want?"
Aaron tapped the contract again. The system highlighted the best negotiation points.
Royalties: Increase to 60% for the artist
Masters Ownership: Reclaim rights after five years
Exclusive Clause: Remove it
He pushed the contract back. "These are my terms."
Jason chuckled. "Bold."
He glanced at the paper, then exhaled. "I'll run it by legal."
Aaron smirked. First industry win.
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The First Rival
As Aaron left the office, he heard a mocking laugh.
"Look at the newbie, thinking he's a superstar."
Aaron turned.
A guy about his age leaned against the wall. Sharp features, expensive clothes, and an arrogant smirk.
"Who are you?" Aaron asked.
The guy scoffed. "Tyler Cross. Signed artist. Unlike you."
Aaron recognized the name. Tyler had a few million streams, mostly generic pop songs. Mediocre talent, big label push.
"Good luck getting signed with that attitude," Tyler sneered. "You'll need it."
Aaron didn't flinch. "I don't need luck."
Tyler chuckled. "We'll see."
As Aaron walked away, the system flashed.
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[New Rival Detected: Tyler Cross]
Ranking: C-Tier Artist (Industry Backed)
Strengths: Label Support, Industry Connections
Weaknesses: Overreliance on Producers, Limited Creativity
Rivalry Bonus: Increased Fame Gains from Direct Competition
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Aaron grinned. The real game had begun.
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