Chapter 121: Children’s Laughter (1)
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To cover up Yan Shixun’s serious injury, all the guests stayed at the hospital, claiming publicly that they were undergoing medical checks and emotional counseling after the dangerous encounter.
Of course, Zhang Wubing was well aware that the guests had tight schedules and couldn’t just spare time easily. So during the hospital stay, Zhang Wubing continued to pay the guests as usual—correspondingly, the guests had to appear to promote the show.
Without any restriction.
The guests were all very happy, especially An Nanyuan.
You see, they were usually so busy with work that they didn’t even have time to sleep. Someone like An Nanyuan, who was on the rise and practically tied to his agency, was working tirelessly, almost like a money-making machine.
Before deciding to participate in this program that no one initially had high hopes for, An Nanyuan hadn’t slept properly for several months. There were times he felt like he was going to drop dead any second, despite his young age, he even started to develop gray hairs.
Staying at a top-notch private hospital for recuperation, with no work, no paparazzi harassment, having someone else pay for the hospital fees, and even receiving compensation—every day’s task was simply to enjoy oneself freely in an excellent environment.
For An Nanyuan, who was just a few months ago, this was something he wouldn’t even dare to think about.
Yet here he was now, sitting on the balcony of his hospital room, with a beautifully landscaped garden behind him. The autumn leaves were layered in shades of orange, stunning under the sunlight, and the sound of the fountain was soothing to the soul.
“Brother Yan? Ah—”
An Nanyuan was live streaming, watching the barrage of comments scrolling on the screen. With a meaningful tone, he drew out his words, saying, “So you little troublemakers, coming to watch my livestream, is it just to make me urge Brother Yane to update more?”
Since the last livestream, Yan Shixun had disappeared without a trace, allowing several waves of controversies on social media platforms to pass without making an appearance. The millions of fans who only found out about Yan Shixun’s livestreams later regretted missing them and anxiously waited under every account related to Yan Shixun, hoping not to miss the next livestream.
Of course, following Yan Shixun’s usual style, he naturally wouldn’t cater to the expectations of Yan Mais.
So, Yan Mais, knowing that all the guests were recuperating at the same hospital, eagerly tuned into other guests’ livestreams, hoping to catch a glimpse of Yan Shixun.
Even An Nanyuan, who openly declared Yan Shixun as his idol, didn’t escape the fans’ attention.
An Nanyuan glanced at the barrage of comments, feeling a bit troubled as he scratched his head. “But Brother Yan’s mood hasn’t been great lately. Maybe we shouldn’t bother him.”
“It’s not that I’m backing down, or that I can’t handle Brother Yan. It’s mainly because I’m gentle.” Seeing a row of question marks flood the comments, An Nanyuan quickly explained himself. “You know, that news that’s been causing a stir on social media recently, that thing with high discussions in Binhai City. You’ve heard about it, right?”
The biggest news recently has undoubtedly been the incident where a doctor was fatally injured and couldn’t be saved.
Even many audiences who don’t usually follow the news have come across it on short videos or social media platforms, and have expressed their outrage.
A major event in the entertainment news sector finally came to light a few days ago—the illegal pursuit by entertainment reporter that ultimately led to the death of a female idol group member in a car accident.
And it was the reporter himself who confessed.
One morning, he appeared to have gone mad, rushing out onto the street from his hiding place. His clothes were disheveled, his body covered in wounds. He grabbed passersby, hysterically shouting that he needed to surrender, claiming that he had caused the death of Chi Xiao’ai, and now Chi Xiao’ai had come back for revenge.
Passersby initially thought he was a mentally unstable lunatic, but the reporter dashed into the street, shouting for help, begging people to call the police and save him, claiming that Chi Xiao’ai would kill him otherwise.
When the authorities arrived, the reporter clung to their uniforms as if grasping at a lifeline. He cried hysterically, begging for a quick end, saying he didn’t want to experience being haunted by ghosts in the middle of the night again.
Thanks to the reporter’s full cooperation in an attempt to save himself, the authorities quickly obtained the dashcam footage from the reporter’s car that night, along with the photos he had taken—irrefutable evidence.
The fans of the idol group were shocked. Initially, they had thought it was an accident, but to discover it was deliberate was beyond belief.
They were furious.
Some of the more irrational fans even began to hate the entire industry, demanding a thorough investigation to see if other reporters had done similar things.
If it were just a few individuals, the entertainment media might not have taken much notice.
But what they didn’t know was that from start to finish, it was Song Ci who was behind the scenes handling Chi Xiao’ai’s case.
Song Ci’s older brother, who doted on his younger brother, provided him with full support. Plus, investigating Chi Xiao’ai’s case also benefited the company.
The Song family owned several large entertainment companies, with nearly a thousand artists under their management. By stepping up for the girl group, they showed a strong stance, demanding a thorough investigation, which was observed by other artists and fans. They viewed the Song family as a compassionate and responsible company.
Why don’t they take advantage of the situation?
So, with the support of the Song family, the entertainment media was sent into a frenzy. For the sake of a rookie idol who went unnoticed by the paparazzi, the entire industry was turned upside down.
—Although the Song family also took the opportunity to extract several longstanding rivals’ teeth, leaving them itching with resentment.
The fans were unaware of this matter; they were simply moved by the responsible actions of the girl group’s company. Other artists within the company were also touched by the company’s support.
Song Ci, leading something successfully for the first time in his life, returned to report to Yan Shixun with great pride. His proud demeanor was akin to that of a Persian cat, raising its head high in silence.
Even Yan Shixun, who had been emotionally low for the past few days, couldn’t help but laugh. He reached out to tousle Song Ci’s smooth hair, then smoothed it out again, earning a proud and happy look from Song Ci.
Yan Shixun could almost envision a fluffy white cat tail wagging behind Song Ci.
On the other hand, Ye Li, looking at Song Ci, almost cast a deathly gaze.
Like a cautious cat, Song Ci hid behind Yan Shixun, his gaze towards Ye Li filled with fear.
As a young master of the Song family, Song Ci had encountered many powerful figures, some of whom could cause financial earthquakes with a mere stomp of their feet. However, none had ever made him feel fear like Ye Li did.
This was an emotion detached from any external factors, akin to the emotions of an adult who fears losing money and status.
But this was solely tied to life and death.
This towering man, if he were to get angry… it would be deadly.
No one could save you.
Yan Shixun couldn’t sense Song Ci’s fear of Ye Li at all. He raised an eyebrow and asked Ye Li, “Are you threatening a kid?”
Gripping Yan Shixun’s hospital gown, Song Ci retorted unhappily, “I’m not a kid anymore, I’m an adult.”
Yan Shixun smirked, “Shut up, or I’ll throw you out front.”
Song Ci fell silent.
Ye Li: “…”
It was outrageous. His exorcist, standing opposite him to protect a mere kitten.
—— If those reporters knew that the root cause of all this was the reporter who caused the accident trying to manipulate unfavorable publicity about Yan Shixun, only to have Yan Shixun see through everything and directly throw down the Song Ci card, they’d probably be crying by now, wishing they could go back to the day they landed at the airport with the show’s crew, cover the offending reporter’s mouth, and take him away.
But the reporters were oblivious.
Those who usually manipulate public opinion were now consumed by it.
Angry fans stormed in, and the entertainment media could only tremble in fear, desperately trying to salvage some reputation to avoid being targeted by the online authorities.
Coincidentally, at this time, there was a murder case in Binhai City, where one person died and six were injured.
The deceased was a rising star in the Binhai City Medical Forum, whose papers had been published in the prestigious medical journal, The Lancet.
However, on a late autumn night, he was stabbed twenty-six times while trying to protect his teacher and fellow brothers from an unemployed vagrant. Despite efforts to save him, he died on the operating table.
The other six individuals also suffered injuries of varying severity, all of whom were well-known doctors in Binhai City. Among them, only the protected teacher sustained minor injuries, with a long cut on his arm from a grazing wound by the knife.
There were no doubts about the case; the hospital where the incident occurred was surrounded by security cameras, and the assailant was promptly apprehended. The authorities issued a statement soon after.
The entertainment media, eager to whitewash their image, immediately released the news, adopting an indignant tone as they demanded justice for the deceased doctor.
With the media’s involvement, the situation quickly escalated. Whether on social media platforms or short video platforms, the news spread everywhere. Within less than a day, almost everyone knew about the incident.
However, many people didn’t bother to read the police announcement in detail and were unaware that the incident had taken place at the hospital where the guests of the program were staying.
“It seems like Brother Yan and the deceased doctor became friends while they were both in the hospital, after all, Brother Yan is such an interesting person.”
An Nanyuan sighed before the livestream. “So, after the doctor’s death, Brother Yan’s mood hasn’t been great. That’s why I’ve been hesitant to bring up these online matters with him. Especially now, with news of it everywhere, I’m afraid it might trigger sad memories for Brother Yan.”
The audience hadn’t expected this revelation and couldn’t help but feel sorry.
[I didn’t expect that the doctor was someone Brother Yan knew. The world is indeed small. I initially just viewed it as news, feeling a bit sorry but not really affected, since I didn’t know the doctor and have never been to the hospital, so I couldn’t empathize. But now, imagining Brother Yan seeing someone he knew had passed away… my goodness, that must be so tough.]
[Life is so fragile. Yesterday, you greeted someone, and tomorrow they might be lying in the morgue. Sigh.]
[I heard the teacher has taken a long leave. His students were injured protecting him, and one even lost their life. It must be torture for a good teacher like him.]
[How could this happen… Although I like Brother Yan, I’m just a simple fan of his looks. I’ve always thought people who talk about ghosts are crazy; how could there be ghosts in this world? But now, I sincerely wish ghosts existed, just so I wouldn’t have to say goodbye to that doctor.]
[We spectators are all feeling angry, let alone Brother Yan. In the show, Brother Yan has always shown a strong sense of loyalty and kindness. Even to strangers, he’s willing to help, let alone friends. Sigh, my nose is tingling, I want to hug Brother Yan and comfort him.”]
[Although I also want to… but when I think of Brother Yan’s muscles, I silently back off, sigh. If Brother Yan were to throw a punch, I’d be done for. It seems like Brother Yan doesn’t like people getting too close to him; even the director was pushed away when he tried to hug his arm before. If I were to rush up and say, ‘Brother Yan, it’s okay, don’t cry, let me pat your head,’ I’d probably be seen as a pervert and beaten to death, right…?”]
[Haha, while other idols worry about fans and paparazzi hurting Brother Yan, Yan Mai simply can’t afford to provoke him. Yan Mai: Can’t fight, can’t fight.]
[I’m laughing to death, indeed, the entertainment industry’s wild current, Yan Mai.]
An Nanyuan chuckled at the barrage, but amidst his laughter, a touch of sadness appeared on his face. He sighed, looking worriedly out towards the balcony.
He wondered how Brother Yan was feeling right now…
However, there was something that both the guests and fans were unaware of.
—Before the middle-aged assailant was taken away, Yan Shixun called the Director of Public Security of Binhai City, Yang Binsheng.
Yang Binsheng had originally planned to resign after returning from his ancestral village. However, Yan Shixun’s words, “You are a good person, feeling guilty can actually drive you to do more things that match your position, helping more people,” persuaded him to stay.
For many years, Yang Binsheng had carried guilt over the negligence that led to Jiang Yanran’s death from abduction. Yan Shixun’s help in Jiang Yanran’s journey to reincarnation also uprooted the centuries-old Yang family lineage, finally putting an end to the wrongdoing. This deeply touched Yang Binsheng and made him grateful to Yan Shixun.
So, when Yan Shixun informed Yang Binsheng about the doctor’s death, Yang Binsheng, due to his sensitive intuition, realized that this would be a highly sensational and egregious event in society that must be handled properly.
Yang Binsheng solemnly assured Yan Shixun that he would personally supervise the investigation of the case to ensure that all procedures were completed as soon as possible. He promised to ensure that the deceased doctor received the justice he deserved and to take care of the families of the deceased and injured.
After hearing Yan Shixun’s conversation with Yang Binsheng, the doctor smiled reassuringly, “Actually, I don’t feel anything about my own death. I even wanted to record the process of dying and the time of losing consciousness for future reference by doctors. If my death could help emergency responders in the future, it would be valuable.”
“I only feel sorry that I won’t be able to go back and see my parents,” the doctor said with a tinge of sadness when mentioning his family. “I’ve been too busy. Since choosing to study medicine in college, I haven’t really been home much. I haven’t been able to be with them. I’m truly an unfilial child.”
Yan Shixun smiled at him, “Community volunteers will often visit your parents’ house to keep them company, and the authorities will make sure they are provided for. You can rest assured.”
The doctor nodded, reflecting, “This experience of being a ghost has really opened my eyes. I always thought ghosts were just ignorant superstition until I experienced it myself. Is this what they mean by ‘experience is the best teacher’?”
Yan Shixun chuckled, “What, are you planning to write a paper detailing the experiences of being a ghost?”
Seeing the doctor not refuting, Yan Shixun raised his eyebrows in surprise, “Already written it?”
The doctor sheepishly scratched his cheek, “Because I’ve been discussing topics with my teacher lately and wanted to make sure to jot down all my thoughts on research as soon as possible. I don’t want my research to stop just because I’ve died. So, I casually mentioned my thoughts on being a ghost to my teacher. But it seems like my teacher was deeply affected, like his entire worldview collapsed…”
“Teacher couldn’t understand some of my feelings as a ghost. I almost wish I could pick up a pen and write a thesis myself— if only I could touch physical objects now,” the doctor muttered quietly.
Yan Shixun shook his head, both amused and resigned.
As Ye Li had said, the Yin official had yet to come and take away the doctor’s soul, giving him enough time to bid farewell to his loved ones.
However, most of his time was spent continuing his unfinished research.
But all good things must come to an end.
“Doctor, it’s time to go,” Yan Shixun said, looking at the doctor’s soul, which was still almost transparent. “Staying in the mortal realm any longer will only weaken your soul further until, eventually, it dissipates completely, never to have another chance at reincarnation.”
“You’re a good doctor. You deserve a second chance at life.”
The doctor accepted it calmly. Having witnessed many scenes of life and death as a doctor, and now that it was his own time to pass, he didn’t feel as distressed.
Though he felt a pang of regret for his research, lamenting that he wouldn’t see the day when his work benefited countless people, but…
“It’s time. I’m grateful for the extra time I’ve had,” he said to Yan Shixun. “Thank you, Mr. Yan.”
He thanked Yan Shixun, “Research is never finished. I have many excellent colleagues, and my teacher will help fulfill my wishes. I have no regrets.”
A cold breath crept along the hospital corridor, dimming even the light, as the fluorescent lights flickered erratically.
Curiously, the doctor turned his head to look outside the room, still with the demeanor of a researcher, “It’s similar to scenes I’ve seen in horror movies before, isn’t it?”
As the doctor was about to step out of the room, Yan Shixun called out to him, “If you… don’t want to be a doctor in your next life, I can help you. You can be born into a wealthy family, live a life of luxury and leisure, without any worries.”
The doctor’s eyes lit up, “Oh! Can I still choose that? Then please let me continue to be a doctor!”
Yan Shixun raised an eyebrow.
The doctor chuckled and explained, “If I continue to be a doctor in my next life, I’ll probably learn similar knowledge faster, right? Then I’ll have more time to do research in my next life, and I can help even more people, saving their lives.”
Yan Shixun’s throat tightened, wanting to speak but feeling a lump in his throat, so he nodded heavily.
“Doctor, your wish will come true.”
The doctor lifted his arm and waved to Yan Shixun, “Mr. Yan, goodbye. It’s been a pleasure to know you. With you around, it’s been… wonderful.”
The soul embarked on the journey to the underworld, never looking back.
The cold aura in the corridor gradually dissipated, the voltage returned to normal, and the lights stopped flickering.
Inside the room, Yan Shixun remained silent, standing there for a long time.
Then—
“Goodbye, Doctor.”
Yan Shixun’s voice was soft: “Perhaps next time, you’ll find me familiar, and call out to me in the hospital. At that moment, I’ll know that you’ve returned to the place you love and are willing to sacrifice for, just as you hoped.”
…
Yan Shixun’s wounds healed remarkably quickly, even surprising his attending doctor.
But it was ultimately explained by Yan Shixun’s long-term exercise, good physical condition, and adequate nutrition during recovery, which facilitated rapid healing.
In just over half a month, Yan Shixun was already discharged from the hospital, and the other guests had also completed their recuperation journeys.
As they prepared to leave, the variety show celebrity smacked his lips, feeling somewhat reluctant to part: “It’s been so long since I had such a good rest. I even enjoyed playing cards with everyone more than going on vacation abroad.”
Zhao Zhen chuckled, “Although I’d love to comfort you to continue next time, but let’s not visit the hospital again. However, I do have a good idea for a destination. I wonder if everyone would be interested.”
The guests looked at Zhao Zhen with curiosity.
They listened to Zhao Zhen’s sincere invitation: “I happen to be shooting a few movie scenes in a film crew in Binhai City these days. Would you like to come along? If you’re willing, you can even cameo in a few small roles.”
Lu Xingxing’s eyes lit up immediately, “Making movies? That sounds awesome!”
Since the incident with his Master Uncle who came to visit him angered and drove away, the news shocked Taoist Song Yi when he heard about it. Out of anger, he not only refused to visit Lu Xingxing, but also forbade him from returning to Haiyun Temple. Being an outgoing child who loved to chat with people, Lu Xingxing felt suffocated in the hospital.
Now, at the mention of an opportunity to go out and have fun, before others could even react, Lu Xingxing’s eyes sparkled with anticipation, and he immediately agreed.
“I used to write music scores for movies, and now I finally have the chance to go to the shooting scene and even act! Do you need a Taoist priest? I can play it authentically! I can even play roles like a knight or a killer! Wow, Master, your disciple is making progress, going to be in a movie!”
Zhao Zhen could hardly resist Lu Xingxing’s enthusiasm, but he always remembered how Lu Xingxing had died for him in the Family Tomb Village. For the guests, they were now like brothers who had gone through life and death together, a bond beyond ordinary friendship.
So Zhao Zhen readily agreed, “This movie is a period piece, and there are indeed roles like Taoists in it. According to the screenwriter, part of it is based on the bombing incident in Binhai City a hundred years ago. The script even includes the story of Haiyun Temple descending the mountain to save the world for authenticity. Finding a Taoist role for you, Xingxing, shouldn’t be difficult.”
Lu Xingxing exclaimed, “Awesome! Can I play the abbot of Haiyun Temple?”
Yan Shixun smiled, “Aren’t you afraid of getting beaten up by Taoist Li after he finds out? He’s someone who lived through that era, and his master was the abbot of Haiyun Temple back then.”
Lu Xingxing instantly drooped like a plant deprived of water.
“Oh.”
The guests burst into laughter at Lu Xingxing’s reaction.
Many of them knew that Zhao Zhen had caught the eye of a famous director because of the popularity of the show. During his hospital stay, the director’s assistant had already brought over the script and contract. After reading the script, Zhao Zhen was deeply attracted to it, so he signed the contract without hesitation.
“That director is known for crafting masterpieces. He doesn’t even bother with ordinary folks.”
Having spent a decade in the entertainment industry, Variety Show Celebrity, who had become savvy and worldly-wise, was also deeply moved. He patted Zhao Zhen’s shoulder and said, “Brother, you’re networking for us. We can’t even ask, and you’re already making the arrangements.”
Zhao Zhen shrugged, “If it were anyone else, I wouldn’t have invited them. But we’ve been through life and death together several times. Why bother about so much?”
“One thing I learned in Family Tomb Village is that besides life and death, nothing else matters much.” Zhao Zhen laughed carefreely, “So don’t be polite with me, we’re all friends here.”
The guests felt touched by his words, so they all agreed without hesitation, telling their agents to clear their schedules of any other commitments.
Zhang Wubing watched with envy and a tinge of bitterness. He clung to Yan Shixun’s arm and pretended to cry, “Sobs, I envy Zhao Zhen so much. That director is my idol. If I hadn’t seen his debut work when I was young, I wouldn’t have aspired to be a director.”
Yan Shixun’s temple twitched as he forced himself to endure, “Well… you’re already a director now.”
“But it’s different!” Zhang Wubing exclaimed, “If I were as talented as them, would I still bother with variety shows? I’d go straight into making movies! It’s not because I lack talent or can’t hire good actors that I started with variety shows.”
“You see, those big directors even have assistants…”
Zhang Wubing paused halfway through, suddenly puzzled, “Strange, I feel like I also have an assistant… Am I remembering wrong?”
Yan Shixun’s gaze flicked over to Ye Li, who remained composed, unaffected by Zhang Wubing’s words.
Ye Li: I haven’t signed a contract, so it doesn’t count. I only have karmic ties with Shixun.
However, since all the guests agreed, Zhang Wubing also eagerly wanted to see his idol in person. Therefore, he immediately decided to postpone the filming of the next episode and instead, everyone went together to visit Zhao Zhen’s film set.
It turned out to be a team-building event after all.
Once this news broke, the official account of the program on social media platforms was flooded with lamentations.
[No way! I already missed Brother Yan’s live stream, and I was eagerly waiting for this episode to see him! Why postpone it?]
[Sobs! My Yan Shixun’s value is already critically low, and I urgently need a refill. Director Zhang, please take care of this child! Postponing is too cruel.]
[Damn, I rely on this variety show for my entertainment, and now it’s gone??? My happiness just vanished in an instant?]
[The one above, your taste is quite heavy… But seriously, I’ve been waiting anxiously. If I don’t get to see Brother Yan soon, I… I’ll start a riot!]
Due to the overwhelming outcry from fans, and considering the immense influence of the show as a top-tier variety program, Zhang Wubing immediately contacted the director of Zhao Zhen’s film crew to discuss the matter.
“Director Zhang, isn’t it? Truly talented and promising.”
This renowned director was known for his eccentric temperament, but he always respected those with genuine talent. He had observed Zhang Wubing’s achievements in the variety show industry, and naturally held him in high regard. “At your age, I was still clueless about what to do, foolishly fooling around with cameras.”
“No, no, no.”
Zhang Wubing, anxious yet excited by the praise from his idol, replied, “Your debut work is truly outstanding. I’ve watched it hundreds of times, memorizing every detail, yet still feel unsatisfied. The shots you capture are all works of art. How could I compare to you?”
The esteemed director was somewhat taken aback.
Before Zhang Wubing had contacted him, he had assumed that this popular variety show director would be someone with a high opinion of his own talents. But hearing the admiration in his words, was he actually a fan of his own?
The renowned director was initially skeptical, so he tested Zhang Wubing with many questions about his own debut work. Surprisingly, Zhang Wubing responded fluently, albeit with some excitement causing him to stumble over his words. However, it was evident that he wasn’t lying; he had indeed watched the movie many times.
This brought a smile to the director’s face, and his demeanor softened slightly. He sighed with relief.
“I’m actually very glad that the crew from your show could visit the set.”
The director said sincerely. “But before this, I was quite conflicted. On one hand, I’m grateful for your visit, but on the other hand, I’m somewhat resistant.”
“After all, the investors aren’t concerned about whether a film is well-made or artistic. As long as it brings in box office revenue, they don’t really care what it’s about.”
The director chuckled bitterly. “But this film of mine has had a massive investment, and the returns might not necessarily be great. I’ve already prepared myself for the possibility that the film might win awards but flop at the box office. However, if that happens, the investors will definitely cause trouble for me.”
“If your show really comes to visit the set, for me, it’s like early publicity, so the results won’t be too disappointing.”
He said. “But I was actually worried before that you might make excessive demands or give amateur advice. However, after talking to you, I’m relieved. You’re just like me, someone who pursues excellence in filmmaking.”
Being praised by someone seen as an idol and a milestone made Zhang Wubing excited, his face turning red. He nodded vigorously while tightly gripping the phone, feeling like he was burning up even in the cold depths of autumn.
In the end, the two directors happily finalized their collaboration agreement, turning a simple set visit into a strong partnership.
The renowned director agreed to allow the show to film on set under the condition that they wouldn’t reveal any film details. In return, the show would help promote the movie during the visit.
With this news, fans also became excited.
Although the next episode of the show is delayed, it doesn’t really make a difference as long as they get to see the guests.
Plus, if the show films on the set, they might even get to see other celebrities. It’s like a bonus from the show.
While Zhao Zhen’s fans have always known he’s talented, and his contract signing with the film crew was announced officially, the movie itself has been low-key with no deliberate marketing.
So, fans didn’t really feel the impact until the show released the poster for the shoot.
In the poster, a spacious and luxurious study is half-lit, with just the right amount of light, exuding an air of ancient gentility, inviting exploration.
Zhao Zhen and the renowned director occupy the center of the poster, seated on a genuine leather sofa. Beside them is Yan Shixun in a black shirt, casually lounging on the sofa backrest, his Martin boots resting on the edge, appearing both dangerous and rebellious.
The rest of the guests are either standing or sitting in the study. The gentlemen are dressed in vintage three-piece suits, while the ladies wear elegant qipaos, all smiling towards the camera outside the poster.
It’s as if they’re heralding the beginning of an old tale from Binhai.
In that era of upheaval and uncertainty, the people in the study each carry their own mysteries and stories.
And at the top of the poster, boldly written is—
“Heartbeat – Binhai Nocturne”
Clearly, it’s a collaboration between the film crew and the show.
Many fans, upon seeing this poster, were deeply attracted by the dangerous yet captivating atmosphere. They immediately flooded the show’s official account with comments, pre-ordering tickets for “Binhai Nocturne” and eagerly awaiting the arrival of their posters.
“Ahhh!! My Brother Yan! So amazing! Those long legs, those collarbones, sobs, I love you, brother!”
“Although it may not be the most appropriate description, the moment I saw this poster, my first thought was— Brother Yan is like a rose blooming in the darkness and danger. You know it’s risky, but you can’t resist getting closer, exploring his story.”
“The pre-order deposit is only five bucks! Five bucks! Not only can it double as a discount for the movie ticket later, but you also get such a beautiful poster, and it’s free shipping! Isn’t this a steal? Why wait? Sold out yet?”
“And honestly, it’s so considerate! There’s even a note saying if the movie can’t be released for any reason, you can apply for a refund. That’s totally worth it!”
“The director’s reputation is solid too. He’s synonymous with art and cinema. When has he ever failed? I’m all in! It’s a pity you can only buy once per account, or else I’d cover my bedroom walls with Brother Yan’s posters. This is his only merch, you know? It’s precious.”
“Not just a poster, it wards off evil spirits too. Dog head.jpg”
“Yan Mai has already turned this into a team-building activity. As soon as the news came out, many Yan Mai fans went crazy buying. Isn’t it tough for us? We want to spend money on Brother Yan but can’t find the opportunity, and finally, when one comes, it’s just five bucks! We’re definitely getting a good deal.”
“Ahh I’m too late, the 800,000 pre-sale tickets are already sold out, sobs, please increase the quantity, the fans want to spend money, desperately want to spend money, give us a chance, please please.”
The renowned director, witnessing the fervent atmosphere on social media akin to Chinese New Year celebrations and the frenzy of fans begging for more tickets yet struggling to secure one, finally realized what a right decision he had made.
And the name that kept appearing in the mouths of fans, Yan Shixun, also caught his attention.
That day when the guests from the show came to shoot the poster, the director saw this outstanding young man with a striking appearance. Even though he had seen countless handsome men and beautiful women in the entertainment industry, he couldn’t help but be amazed by him.
When he received the finished film, the director also noticed that this young man perfectly matched the background of the story, not just because of his acting skills.
But because of something innate within him.
It was as if this young man named Yan Shixun had personally experienced danger, heard many stories from the darkness, so he didn’t falter at all, and his natural performance was already outstanding enough to captivate anyone’s attention.
Looking at the poster in front of him, as well as the continuously increasing yet quickly sold-out movie tickets, the renowned director found himself in rare hesitation.
He had always despised actors who lacked talent but had a large following, believing that they disrupted the industry and tarnished films and art, like pests in an ocean of art. Therefore, regardless of what the investors said, he had stubbornly insisted on using actors with genuine acting skills, earning him a reputation for being difficult and uncompromising.
But as he looked at the rumors and controversies on the internet, no matter how much those fans of the internet celebrities he had rejected attacked him, he always sneered and scorned, finding them pitiful and laughable.
So, for this film that he had pinned high hopes on, even though he knew it might end up being a financial disaster, he still insisted on his principles, refusing to heed others’ advice to include a young internet celebrity who could attract attention.
Until Zhang Wubing contacted him.
Until he saw Yan Shixun.
Suddenly, the renowned director felt that if it was this young man named Yan Shixun… he was willing to make an exception.
Not needing acting skills, he just wanted Yan Shixun to perform naturally.
—That would already be his best work he could offer.
However, the director finally made up his mind, but Zhang Wubing on the phone was having doubts.
“Director, Brother Yan.. he… hasn’t debuted in the entertainment industry, he’s still an amateur.”
The renowned director: “……???”
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