The news about certain officials accepting bribes was not getting as much attention as expected, ranking lower than the previous trending topics.
The internet erupted with fans of Tianxing Entertainment artists expressing disbelief, frantically asking on their idols’ accounts whether the rumors were true, terrified that their beloved stars were in danger.
However, the artists were too scared to respond, feeling extremely anxious. A series of trending searches and undeniable evidence had effectively drowned Tianxing Entertainment, as their artists were implicated in sexual favors and drinking parties, but no names were disclosed. Without the ability to clear their names, the artists clamored for contract terminations.
Meanwhile, many executives from the company were taken away by the police; there was no one left to manage the situation, allowing it to fester. It wasn’t until official media stepped in that Tianxing’s foul behavior and illegal dealings were thoroughly exposed.
Tianxing Entertainment was collapsing, and soon after, all their staff had cleared out.
Everyone knew it was over.
Taking advantage of the situation, Huasheng and other entertainment companies moved quickly to seize resources, not just artists but a host of film and television assets.
Whether others succeeded or not was unknown to Lin Ya, but Huasheng definitely thrived. They not only recruited many hidden talents from Tianxing but were also in the process of acquiring the company.
These individuals were smart enough to refuse to become complicit in wrongdoing but couldn’t afford the breach of contract fees, so their contracts still remained under Tianxing Entertainment.
One artist, who had a martial arts background and was strikingly handsome despite his cold demeanor, caught Lin Ya’s eye. After reviewing his information, he arranged for him to audition for the male lead in “XX Memoirs.” This drama was about to start filming, and they still hadn’t found a fitting candidate for one of the roles.
The director, excited after seeing the audition, eagerly confirmed the casting.
With the final cast now assembled, filming could commence.
After two years of buildup, the long-anticipated film series and drama began production amidst the fervent expectations of fans.
Lin Ya was fond of this series and even made a cameo appearance. His acting skills had not waned, and the director watched him eagerly, hoping he might take on a main role.
However, he was far too busy; he frequently needed to check on progress at the lab. Although another manager was hired, major decisions still needed his input. Alongside this, he occasionally had to spend time with his elderly grandmother, leaving him in a perpetual whirlwind of commitments, especially with travel added in.
He decided he would never again take on such a massive undertaking…
The pace of this world was exceptionally slow, but Lin Ya was mentally prepared. In this age of capital manipulation, he understood the importance of taking small, steady steps.
Three years passed in the blink of an eye.
At this point, Huasheng Entertainment had established itself as a longstanding player in the industry.
Their artists were thriving, and each film and drama production had become a hit, further fueling the popularity of a large number of actors. Coupled with an impeccable reputation free from sordid undercurrents, the resources available were ample. Huasheng protected its artists, making it the top choice for new actors entering the industry.
“Quick, hurry up! I finally snagged those tickets! If we’re late, it would be such a waste! Plus, all the premiere shows have giveaways! We need to get there fast to claim ours!” Two girls linked arms, each carrying a backpack, their eyes sparkling as they gazed at the crowded cinema.
Zhao Yu pulled her friend through the throng, urging, “Quick, let’s buy the special drinks and snacks first.”
“There are so many people! There shouldn’t be this many for a premiere, right? What are all these other folks here for?” The girl, not familiar with online novels, only heard mentions from her friends about this film adapted from a popular book that her friend loved, prompting her to join for the screening; the sight of the crowd completely baffled her.
“Those people? They might be here to buy the merchandise, as only those who bought tickets to the premiere can get it. Others looking to purchase have to come here in person and ask someone else to sell them theirs.”
“Really?”
“Yeah! You wouldn’t understand yet. But once you watch the movie, you might get it. Let’s hurry inside!” The two girls entered the cinema, collecting the promotional merchandise cheerfully handed over by the staff.
“Wow, this is so nice—” They received a substantial tote, filled with a rectangular wooden box, posters, postcards, and several letters.
They didn’t have time to examine the contents closely; the movie was about to start…
“Hey, try this! It’s really good.” A cookie shaped like sunglasses was presented to Lin Ya. He took a bite, tasting chocolate—it was quite nice.
“Settle down; the movie is starting soon. Remember to wear your glasses.”
Shi Yi obediently placed her snacks on the side table next to the cinema seat and curiously adjusted the VR glasses, which were still dark.
The film hadn’t started yet.
“Is this film going to be an immersive experience?”
“Exactly! And this premiere is utilizing this method completely. All the seats in the theater have been modified, so it’s not just about wearing the glasses; you also have to fasten your seatbelt.” There were attendants ensuring safety, so there was no concern for accidents.
“It makes sense why there’s space for us to store things next to our seats.” Shi Yi explored the safety belts, fastening them in a crisscross fashion, with special restraints for her legs as well.
Other attendees entering the unusual screening room murmured in speculation about what kind of movie this was going to be.
Ten minutes before the film began, staff explained the viewing process, and when everyone was ready, strapped in, and wearing glasses, the movie finally commenced.
Three hours later—