52: First meeting in Magic City, a date with a beautiful lady

Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street at night was bustling with people and glittering with neon lights.

Lin Da looked at the young woman who had taken off her sunglasses, revealing a charming face that could express both joy and anger, captivating all who saw her, and his heart couldn't help but ripple.

Su Wanqing!

She was undoubtedly the top-tier young actress in the domestic entertainment industry, having already won several heavyweight Best Actress awards at a young age.

Not only was her beauty extraordinary, but her acting skills were also highly acclaimed, making her the perfect goddess in the hearts of countless bachelors and the most sought-after darling in the capital market.

In his previous life, Lin Da had met this favored daughter of heaven a few times at award ceremonies or industry events.

However, at that time, he was just an obscure supporting actor, while Su Wanqing was already the focus of all attention, surrounded by stars; an insurmountable distance separated the two of them.

He never expected that in this life, they would unexpectedly meet on the bustling streets of this magical city in such a dramatic way.

"Miss Su... Teacher Su, hello." Lin Da quickly recovered from his initial surprise, a polite and slightly reserved smile appearing on his face as he extended his hand, "I never expected to meet you here; it's truly an honor."

He quietly activated the [Aura Control- Affinity] skill, making himself appear more gentle and friendly, so as not to seem overly nervous or flustered due to her superstar status.

Su Wanqing looked at Lin Da's clear and sincere eyes, and the calm demeanor he possessed that was unbefitting his age, and a hint of surprise and... curiosity flashed in her beautiful eyes.

She extended her slender hand, gently shaking Lin Da's, her voice clear and pleasant, like an oriole emerging from a valley: "Teacher Lin Da is too polite; just call me Su Wanqing.

I just thought I had mistaken someone, but it turns out it really is you."

She paused, a playful curve appearing at the corner of her lips: "Speaking of which, I'm actually a 'fan' of yours, Teacher Lin.

The Bandit A you played in "Jianghu Xiaoxiami" and Wei Zhongxian in the trailer for "the chronicles of the great ming dynasty" were both so amazing!

Especially what you said in the live broadcast a few days ago, it really spoke to my heart!"

Lin Da's heart stirred slightly upon hearing this.

He hadn't expected that Su Wanqing would also pay attention to his performances and that live broadcast.

"Miss Su, you flatter me." Lin Da smiled humbly, "I'm just a newcomer, still in the learning stage; to receive your recognition, I truly don't deserve it."

"Teacher Lin is too modest." Su Wanqing blinked her expressive big eyes, her tone carrying a hint of sincerity, "Your acting skills have been highly praised by several seniors in our company.

They all say you're the biggest surprise in the film and television industry this year!"

The "seniors" she referred to were likely influential figures in the industry.

Lin Da mused to himself, it seems his previous performances had indeed caused some ripples, big or small, within the industry.

Just then, a middle-aged woman beside Su Wanqing, who appeared to be her agent, lightly coughed, reminding her, "Su Wanqing, it's getting late, we should head back to the hotel.

There's still the Golden Tripod Award rehearsal tomorrow."

"Oh, okay." Su Wanqing responded, a trace of apology appearing on her face, "I'm sorry, Teacher Lin, I still have something to do here.

How about... we exchange contact information? After the Golden Tripod Award, I'll treat you to a casual meal and properly ask for your insights on acting?"

A direct invitation? And in front of her agent?

A flicker of surprise crossed Lin Da's eyes.

He knew that a top-tier actress of Su Wanqing's caliber, whose every word and action was closely watched, making such an invitation to a newcomer was truly rare.

While it certainly stemmed from her admiration for his acting, it was probably also related to his current popularity and trending topics, as well as Chairman Li Shengshi's earlier statement at the banquet.

The Beijing Circle and the entertainment industry in the magical city, though seemingly separated by vast distances, were actually very well-informed.

"System, use [Interpersonal Insight Card (Basic)] on target 'Su Wanqing'." Lin Da thought to himself.

Target Character: Su Wanqing

Personality Traits: Intelligent, dedicated, strong competitive spirit, high emotional intelligence, good at networking, has a pursuit for acting.

Current Emotions: Curiosity (7/10), Admiration (6/10), Desire to Befriend (5/10).

Attitude towards Host: Friendly (primary), believes the host is a potential stock worth befriending.

Key Interpersonal Relationships: A-list domestic actress, backed by a powerful management company, good relationships with several well-known directors and producers.

Recent Abnormal Behavior: No obvious abnormalities.

It seemed Su Wanqing's invitation was indeed out of goodwill and... a hint of shrewd consideration.

A knowing smile appeared on Lin Da's lips.

"It's my honor to receive Miss Su's invitation." He took out his phone and exchanged contact information with Su Wanqing, "After the Golden Tripod Award, I will definitely take you up on it."

"Then it's settled!" Su Wanqing smiled enchantingly, radiating charm, "Teacher Lin, see you at the Golden Tripod Award!"

With that, she gracefully departed, surrounded by her agent and assistant, leaving behind only a faint fragrance and countless envious gazes from passersby.

Lin Da watched Su Wanqing's receding figure, his mind filled with a myriad of thoughts.

Su Wanqing was undoubtedly a figure who met the system's mission criteria for an "industry key person."

Establishing a connection with her would be entirely beneficial for his future development.

However, he always felt that this top-tier young actress's sudden show of favor seemed to hide something deeper.

The situation in the magical city was even more complex than he had imagined.

Just as he was about to turn and leave, his phone suddenly vibrated.

It was a text message from an unknown number, very simple, with only one sentence:

"Mr. Lin, at the Golden Tripod Award welcome banquet tomorrow night, I wonder if I would be so fortunate as to share a drink with you?"

At the end of the text message, there was no signature, only a capitalized letter — "L."

L?

Lin Da's eyebrows raised slightly.

Could it be... Chairman Li Shengshi?

It seemed this industry giant's "interest" in him was truly extraordinary.

The corner of Lin Da's mouth curved into a meaningful smile.

This grand banquet at the Golden Tripod Award was becoming more and more interesting.

He wanted to see what unexpected people he would meet and what unexpected stories would unfold in this star-studded magical city.

He was determined to complete the golden supporting role system's mission!