45: Rising fame, but also dangers

That thrilling “Hongmen Banquet” was like a depth charge dropped into the calm Beijing Circle film and television industry, with its aftershocks spreading rapidly.

The news that Wang Hong and Zhang Yang's attempt to frame Lin Da had backfired, leading to their own ruin and disgrace, spread throughout the entire circle almost overnight.

Xinghui Entertainment’s stock price plummeted in response, facing an unprecedented public relations crisis.

It was said that Wang Hong had been suspended by Xinghui Entertainment's high-level management for investigation, and Zhang Yang's acting career was essentially declared over.

Lin Da, on the other hand, became the biggest winner in this storm.

His composure in the face of danger, his calm demeanor in outwitting doubts, and his sincere dedication to acting and adherence to principles, all rapidly spread through various channels, earning him unanimous praise from both inside and outside the industry.

“This Lin Da is not simple! So young, yet he possesses such character and methods!”

“Indeed, he acts well, and his character is even better! Such an actor truly deserves our respect!”

“Xinghui Entertainment truly tried to steal a chicken but lost the rice this time, they deserve it!”

For a time, Lin Da’s name became a hot topic in the Beijing Circle film and television industry.

Many producers and directors who had previously adopted a wait-and-see attitude towards him began to re-evaluate this rising star, secretly adding him to their future collaboration lists.

The crew of “the chronicles of the great ming dynasty” even regarded Lin Da as their “treasure of the set.”

Director Zheng Guofeng increasingly valued him, not only giving him full trust and freedom in his performances but also actively seeking his opinions on some script details.

Teacher Chen Daoming also held this diligent, studious, and exceptionally talented young man in high regard.

During breaks in filming, he would often pull him aside to discuss acting insights, treating him as an old friend with whom he could communicate on equal terms.

The other staff members of the crew admired Lin Da even more.

He was humble and polite in his daily interactions, never putting on airs, and his professional ability was beyond reproach.

Who wouldn't like such a person?

Lin Da did not lose himself due to the external praise and adoration.

He continued as usual, arriving at the set on time every day, diligently treating every scene and every shot.

He used the [Master Acting Experience Card (Fragment)] rewarded by the system to delve into a pivotal scene where Wei Zhongxian, in his later years, was disheartened and drinking alone under the lamp.

That short few minutes of “Master Possession” experience gave him an enlightening improvement in both his understanding of the character and his acting realm.

As for the newly acquired [Crisis Warning Card (One-time)], he carefully put it away.

He knew that the waters of Beijing were far deeper than he had imagined.

Although Wang Hong and Zhang Yang had temporarily fallen, no one could guarantee that new “Li Hongs” or “Li Yangs” wouldn't emerge.

This card might save his life at a crucial moment.

This day, the scene being filmed was of Wei Zhongxian, late at night, discussing important matters with a trusted young eunuch in a secret chamber.

This scene required Lin Da to display Wei Zhongxian's powerful Aura Control - Intimidation, meticulous thinking, and precise control over the situation.

Before filming began, Lin Da silently recited in his mind: “Aura Control - Intimidation. Ethereal Speech - Activate.”

He slowly walked into the set, and with just a glance, a subtle movement, the atmosphere of the entire secret chamber solidified.

The young actor playing the eunuch, enveloped by Lin Da's powerful aura, involuntarily felt a hint of tension and pressure, and fine beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.

“Are things… taken care of?” Lin Da, as Wei Zhongxian, spoke in a low voice, yet it carried a chilling coldness that made one's heart palpitate.

Under the enhancement of the [Ethereal Speech] skill, his seemingly plain question was like an invisible sharp sword, piercing directly into people's hearts.

“Rep… Reporting to the Grand Director,” the eunuch's voice trembled slightly, “All… all as per your instructions, taken… taken care of.”

“Hmm.” Wei Zhongxian nodded slightly, his eyes as deep as the sea, making it impossible to discern his true thoughts, “Remember, as servants, the most important things are loyalty and… not talking too much.”

His words, seemingly a warning to the eunuch, were in fact subtly cautioning certain enemies hidden in the shadows.

This scene was filmed exceptionally smoothly, almost in one take.

Director Zheng Guofeng nodded repeatedly from behind the monitor, full of praise for Lin Da's control.

During a break in filming, Lin Da received a call from Zhou Xingxing.

“Lin Da! Lin Da! Good news! Great news!” On the other end of the line, Zhou Xingxing's voice was so excited it almost cracked, “My… my script for “"salted fish turn over battle plan"”, the boss of that small film company, decided… decided to invest! Although the investment isn't much, but… but he said that as long as I can refine the script well, he's willing to give me a chance, let me… let me direct it myself!”

“Really? That's great, Xing Zai!” Lin Da was genuinely happy for him, “I knew you could do it! How does it feel to be a director?”

“Hehe, I… I don't know yet.” Zhou Xingxing scratched his head a little shyly, “But, just thinking about it… feels incredibly satisfying! Lin Da, when I finish filming this show, I'll definitely ask you to be the male lead!”

“I'll be waiting.” Lin Da smiled, “But you better write the script well, don't ruin my reputation.”

“Don't worry, Lin Da! I'll definitely write a script that will make you clap in amazement!” Zhou Xingxing said confidently.

After hanging up the phone, Lin Da's mood also became exceptionally pleasant.

Zhou Xingxing's success was a great encouragement to him as well.

However, just as he was immersed in joy, a rapid system prompt suddenly rang in his mind:

“Ding! [Crisis Warning Card] has detected a potential malicious intent targeting the host rapidly approaching! Danger Level: Moderate! Host, please remain vigilant and pay attention to your personal safety!”

Potential malice? Moderate danger level?

Lin Da's expression instantly darkened.

It seemed that some people truly wouldn't give up.

He calmly glanced around; the studio was still a busy and peaceful scene, with no abnormalities visible.

But Lin Da knew that danger often lurked in the most inconspicuous corners.

He took a deep breath, his eyes becoming sharp and vigilant.

Since the storm was approaching, he would make full preparations to meet this new challenge!

He wanted to see, this time, who it was that intended to stand in the way of his soaring dragon!