58: Starry night in the Magic City

On the night of the Golden Tripod Award ceremony, the sky above Shanghai was adorned with countless shimmering neon lights and spotlights, making it more brilliant than the Milky Way.

Lin Da, as arranged by Hua Guang Film and Television, arrived early at his exclusive dressing room backstage. The professional styling team had been waiting for a long time, striving for perfection in every detail, from hairstyle to makeup, and from gown to accessories.

Producer Qin Ya specifically called to instruct him, "Lin Da, you are a special guest tonight. Although you don't have any nominated works, it's still a very important appearance. I've already spoken with the organizing committee, and they'll give you some screen time during the red carpet segment. During media interviews, try to show your professionalism and humility. Remember, you are one of the representatives of the chronicles of the great ming dynasty production team's image."

"I understand, Qin Ya, thank you," Lin Da said with a slight smile, looking at his refreshed self in the mirror, dressed in a well-tailored black, subtly patterned suit, with a hint of heroism and composure in his brows.

He did not choose overly flamboyant or ostentatious attire, but instead selected a classic style that best highlighted his own temperament. He knew that tonight's stage belonged to the filmmakers who truly had works, and he was merely a passerby, a learner.

At 6 PM, the Golden Tripod Award red carpet ceremony officially began.

Outside the Shanghai International Convention and Exhibition Center, enthusiastic fans and media reporters had already surrounded the area, making it impenetrable. Flashlights flickered like daylight, and screams and cheers surged one after another.

Luxury cars slowly drove up, and those who stepped out were all top figures in the domestic film and television industry—star-studded Best Actors and Actresses, talented renowned directors, and film and television company bosses holding immense wealth.

Lin Da arrived in a special car arranged by Hua Guang Film and Television, along with several company executives and other key creative personnel from the chronicles of the great ming dynasty production team.

As he stepped onto the red carpet, which symbolized glory and dreams, a small thrill involuntarily arose in his heart.

In his previous life, he had watched countless times on television as these stars competed for attention on the red carpet, and he had also fantasized that one day, he too could stand there, receiving widespread attention.

Unexpectedly, in this life, this dream was realized ahead of time, and in such a way.

"System, during the red carpet interview segment, use [Character Charm Aura (One-time)]." Lin Da silently recited in his mind.

"[Character Charm Aura (One-time)] activated. Duration: 30 minutes. Effect: The host's personal charm will be significantly enhanced within the specified time, making it easier to gain others' favor and attention, and making their words and actions more attractive."

An indescribable sense of confidence and composure arose from the depths of Lin Da's heart. The smile on his face became softer and more infectious, and his eyes became deeper and more captivating.

Under the dual enhancement of Aura Control- Affinity and Character Charm Aura, even though he was just a newcomer, he was not overshadowed by the radiance of the big-name stars around him while walking on the star-studded red carpet. Instead, his unique calm temperament and elegant demeanor attracted the attention of many media reporters and guests present.

"Excuse me, is that Mr. Lin? Your performance in the trailer for the chronicles of the great ming dynasty was very stunning. Could you share your insights on playing the role of Wei Zhongxian?" A sharp-eyed entertainment reporter immediately handed the microphone to Lin Da.

Lin Da stopped, smiled, and took the microphone. His voice was gentle and magnetic, and the Words of Power (Elementary) skill quietly activated:

"It is a great honor to participate in such an excellent work as the chronicles of the great ming dynasty and to play a challenging role like Wei Zhongxian. For me, every performance is a process of learning and growth. Wei Zhongxian is a complex character with rich layers, and I hope to present him realistically and three-dimensionally to the audience through my efforts."

He did not overly boast about his acting skills, nor did he deliberately cater to the media's tastes. He simply used the most sincere language to express his understanding of the role and his love for acting.

However, under the enhancement of Character Charm Aura and Ethereal Speech, his seemingly bland answer appeared extraordinarily moving and full of unique charm.

The reporter who asked the question nodded repeatedly, his eyes gleaming with admiration. The surrounding flashlights also focused more intensely on Lin Da.

After the red carpet segment concluded, Lin Da smoothly entered the awards ceremony venue.

The entire venue was magnificently decorated and brilliantly lit. Filmmakers from all over the country gathered to witness this annual grand event of Chinese cinema.

Lin Da's seat was arranged relatively close to the front, surrounded by well-known directors and actors in the industry. He politely nodded to everyone, not deliberately trying to strike up conversations, but simply quietly feeling the solemn and enthusiastic atmosphere of the scene.

He saw that Chairman Li Shengshi was chatting and laughing with several industry giants; Su Wanqing, dressed in an even more elaborate evening gown, sat in the front row of the guest seating, like a proud peacock, attracting everyone's attention.

Qin Mu Feng, Old Qin, as the chairman of the jury, sat on the main stage, looking solemn and commanding without anger.

The awards ceremony officially kicked off after a spectacular opening performance.

Awards were announced one after another, and the winners, amidst thunderous applause, excitedly walked onto the stage to deliver their heartfelt acceptance speeches.

Although Lin Da was merely an observer, he was also infected by the dedication and love for cinematic art present at the scene, and his heart was filled with respect and yearning.

Just then, his phone suddenly vibrated.

It was a text message from an unknown number, containing only a few short words:

"Mr. Lin, I'm waiting for you in the backstage VIP lounge. There's an important matter to discuss. — Su."

Su?

Su Wanqing?

Lin Da's eyebrows raised slightly, and a hint of surprise welled up in his heart. This top-tier young actress would actually proactively arrange to meet him at such a time? And in the backstage VIP lounge?

What kind of mystery was hidden within this?

Lin Da's eyes deepened.

He knew that this night in Shanghai would probably not be as calm as it appeared on the surface.

A new storm seemed to be brewing quietly.