97: Live streaming is in turmoil, and platforms are in turmoil

Late autumn in the capital city brought a deepening chill.

Inside the luxurious live broadcast room at Kyushu Video Platform, specially designed for the creative team of “iron-blooded censor,” the atmosphere was subtly warm and intense. Under the soft lighting, the gilded characters on the background board, “The Rise of Chinese Style — Face to Face with the Creative Team of ‘iron-blooded censor’,” were particularly striking.

Lin Da sat in the center of the guest seating, dressed in a modified Han-element casual suit specially prepared by Purple Cloud Film and Television. The steady ink color highlighted his increasingly mature and elegant demeanor. To his left was Director Zhang Jingzhi of “iron-blooded censor,” and to his right was Producer Liu. Both of their faces wore professional smiles, but deep in their eyes, an almost imperceptible hint of… solemnity flickered.

They both knew that this seemingly ordinary interview tonight could be a “Hongmen Banquet” fraught with hidden dangers for Lin Da, and for “iron-blooded censor,” a series that had not yet begun filming.

Allen Parker and the CAA domestic team’s investigation report had clearly pointed out the intricate connections between Kyushu Video Platform and the remaining forces of Tianyu and Xinghui. While Producer Liu’s choice to use this platform for the early promotion of “iron-blooded censor” certainly had its commercial considerations, it inevitably carried some risk of “inviting a wolf into the house.”

“Teacher Lin, are you ready?” Before the broadcast began, Producer Liu turned her head and asked in a low voice, with a hint of concern.

Lin Da smiled faintly, his eyes calm and profound. The [Aura Control (Intermediate) – Focus] skill had quietly activated, making him appear composed and at ease: “Producer Liu, rest assured, I am ready.”

He knew that tonight, the enemies lurking in the shadows would definitely try to cause him trouble. But he was no longer the unknown nobody who could be easily manipulated.

At exactly 8 PM, the live broadcast began on time.

The host, an experienced industry veteran, greeted the creative team with a beaming smile, attempting to create a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

According to the schedule, a one-minute concept trailer for “iron-blooded censor” was played first. Though brief, the scenes of battle with clashing weapons, the treacherous court struggles, and… Lin Da’s fleeting, yet profound and tragic gaze as Song Qi, still caused a small-scale barrage of comments in the live stream.

“Wow! Teacher Lin Da’s ancient costume look is absolutely stunning!”

“That gaze, it’s full of character! Can’t wait for “iron-blooded censor”!”

“Feels like it’s going to be a meticulously produced historical drama!”

Immediately after, the segment for questions from netizens and invited media began.

The initial questions were all fairly conventional, mostly concerning the creative background of “iron-blooded censor,” character settings, and interesting anecdotes from filming. Lin Da, Director Zhang Jingzhi, and Producer Liu answered flawlessly, showcasing the crew’s professionalism and whetting the audience’s appetite.

Just as the atmosphere was peaceful, an account with a “renowned entertainment critic” verified badge suddenly threw out an extremely sharp question in the comments:

“Teacher Lin Da, you were developing smoothly in Hollywood before, why did you suddenly choose to return to China to film a relatively serious historical drama like ‘iron-blooded censor’? Is it because you encountered a bottleneck in Hollywood, or… is there another hidden reason? For example, as some online rumors suggest, did you offend certain forces in Hollywood and were forced to return to China to ‘avoid trouble’?”

As soon as this question was posed, the atmosphere in the live broadcast room instantly solidified.

Everyone’s gaze instinctively focused on Lin Da.

Director Zhang Jingzhi and Producer Liu’s expressions also subtly changed. They knew that the real “show” had begun!

Lin Da’s face still wore that gentle and humble smile, as if completely unaffected by the question. In his heart, however, he sneered.

The [Eye of Truth (Intermediate)] skill allowed him to clearly see the undisguised malicious guidance and… familiar scent behind this question.

“System, activate On-the-Spot Strategist,” he murmured inwardly.

“First of all, I am very grateful to this critic friend for their attention to me.” Lin Da’s voice was gentle but carried an undeniable power. The [Speech Spirit (Intermediate)] skill was fully activated at this moment, making his every word full of persuasiveness, “Regarding the reason for my return to China to film ‘iron-blooded censor,’ it’s actually very simple—because I am a Chinese actor, and my roots are here.”

“My experience in Hollywood was a very valuable process of learning and growth for me. I was exposed to a broader stage and learned more advanced production concepts. But deep in my heart, I have always been filled with reverence and love for our five-thousand-year-old brilliant Chinese culture. To have the opportunity to portray a historical figure like Song Qi, a man of unyielding integrity and concern for the world, is not just a job for me, but a… glory and a mission.”

“As for the so-called ‘development bottleneck’ and ‘avoiding trouble’…” Lin Da chuckled softly, a sharp glint flashing in his eyes, “I think a truly ambitious actor’s vision will never be limited to immediate fame, fortune, and comfort. Challenging different roles, trying different genres, and continuously breaking through oneself—this is the most fascinating aspect of being an actor, isn’t it?”

“Moreover,” he changed the subject, his gaze sweeping across the camera, as if it could penetrate the screen and see those lurking in the shadows, trying to slander him, “My actions, Lin Da, have always been open and honest, with a clear conscience. I believe that the clear will be clear, and the turbid will be turbid. Those groundless rumors and malicious slanders will ultimately burst like bubbles in the sunlight, collapsing on their own.”

His words were resonant, neither humble nor arrogant! He expressed his love for his country’s culture and his pursuit of art, cleverly counterattacked malicious conjectures and slanders, and showcased the demeanor and responsibility an excellent actor should possess!

After a brief silence, the comments in the live broadcast room instantly exploded!

“Teacher Lin spoke so well! This is the true character of an actor!”

“Support Teacher Lin! Rebut all doubts with strength!”

“Some people, with their dark minds, only know how to use dirty tricks to smear others!”

“’iron-blooded censor’ must be watched! Just for Teacher Lin’s words!”

The account of the “renowned entertainment critic” who asked the question, after Lin Da’s response, remained silent, as if it had vanished into thin air.

Immediately after, another account with a “senior media person” verified badge threw out an even more tricky question: “Teacher Lin Da, we all know that the character Song Qi is historically known for his uprightness, even being somewhat unapproachable. However, your previous roles, whether Wei Zhongxian or An Si Yuan, have carried a certain complexity, being both good and evil. Do you think you can truly master such a ‘pure’ positive role as Song Qi? Will you worry that ‘overacting’ might make this character too stereotypical, or even… cause audience dislike?”

This question, seemingly about acting skills, was actually implying that Lin Da’s acting range was limited and that he was incapable of playing such a “great and righteous” role.

Lin Da smiled faintly, a glint of confidence flashing in his eyes: “Thank you very much to this media friend for asking such a professional question.”

“In my opinion, the inner world of any classic character can never be simply summarized as ‘black or white.’ Song Qi’s unyielding integrity did not stem from pedantic ignorance of human nature, but from his steadfast commitment to the greater good of the country and his deep love for the common people. His ‘unapproachable’ nature was only directed at corrupt officials and treacherous villains. Deep down, he also possessed the seven emotions and six desires of an ordinary person, with a longing and cherish for family, friendship, and even… love.”

“I hope that through my portrayal, the audience will see not just an impartial censor, but also a… flesh-and-blood, warm, struggling, helpless ‘person’ who, in the dark officialdom, always adheres to the light and justice in his heart.”

“As for whether I will ‘overact’…” Lin Da’s lips curved into a meaningful arc, “I believe that true acting is neither a desperate outburst nor a feigned profound introspection. Instead, it is… at the appropriate time, in the appropriate way, precisely conveying the character’s truest inner emotions to the audience. I believe that as long as I can truly enter Song Qi’s inner world and resonate with his soul, I will definitely be able to create a… vivid character that is both historically accurate and resonates with the audience.”

His words were filled with a profound understanding of the character and unique insights into the art of acting. Under the dual enhancement of [Speech Manipulation (Intermediate)] and [Essence of the Role (Advanced)], his every word seemed to carry a magical power, making everyone present involuntarily convinced and moved.

The comments in the live broadcast room once again exploded with praises like “Teacher Lin is too professional!”, “This depth of understanding, I’m in awe!”, and “I’m already looking forward to the character Song Qi!”

A carefully planned “Hongmen Banquet” was once again calmly resolved by Lin Da with his unparalleled strength and wisdom.

Those enemies who tried to cause him trouble and embarrass him during the live broadcast not only failed but once again enhanced his reputation, causing his popularity and public praise to… rise instead of fall!

After the live broadcast ended, Producer Liu looked at Lin Da, her eyes filled with undisguised admiration and… a hint of relief. She knew that this time, she had truly… bet on the right horse!

And Lin Da, amidst the praise and applause of the crowd, smiled faintly.

He knew that this game of chess in the capital had only just begun.

And he was already prepared to face more challenges, to reveal his… sharpest sword in this misty game of chess!

The live interview conducted on the Kyushu Video Platform was like a burning meteor thrown into a calm lake; the subsequent chain reaction it triggered was far more enthusiastic and… positive than Producer Liu had initially expected.

Lin Da, with his unparalleled eloquence, wisdom, and profound understanding of the role, not only perfectly resolved the malicious provocations from the shadows but also transformed a precarious “Hongmen Banquet” into a “fan-attracting feast” of personal charisma.

#LinDaHighEQ#, #LinDaActor'sIntegrity#, and #TheRighteousCensorNotYetAiredButAlreadyPopular# became trending topics on major social media platforms within a few hours of the broadcast's end, sweeping through the hot search lists with overwhelming force. Countless netizens who had only vaguely heard of him or were adopting a wait-and-see attitude turned into fans because of this broadcast, and some even… turned from haters to fans.

“This Lin Da, not only acts well, but his mind and speaking skills are also too impressive!”

“Yes, facing such tricky questions, he answered flawlessly, logically, and with evidence—it’s simply textbook-level public relations!”

“I used to think he was just a lucky newcomer, but now it seems he truly has strength and depth!”

“Just for Teacher Lin’s words, I’m definitely watching this ‘iron-blooded censor’!”

On the internet, positive comments about Lin Da surged like a tide. His fleeting image as “Wei Zhongxian” in the trailer for “the chronicles of the great ming dynasty” and his various legendary experiences in Hollywood were also re-excavated by netizens and discussed with great relish.

For a time, Lin Da’s name became the hottest and most talked-about presence in the domestic entertainment industry.

As the “beneficiaries” of this live broadcast, Purple Cloud Film and Television and iron-blooded censor crew were naturally delighted.

Producer Liu looked at the overwhelmingly positive reviews online and the unprecedented attention iron-blooded censor project received because of Lin Da, her smile almost overflowing. She knew that this time, she had truly… bet on the right horse!

“Teacher Lin, you’ve truly rendered great service to our ‘iron-blooded censor’ this time!” Producer Liu said on the other end of the phone, her voice filled with undisguised joy and gratitude. “The executives at the Kyushu Video Platform are also full of praise for your performance last night. They even proactively offered to add some promotional resources for ‘iron-blooded censor’ and… hope to engage in a deeper, exclusive collaboration with you.”

A deeper, exclusive collaboration?

Lin Da’s brows furrowed slightly, but a subtle hint of wariness arose in his heart.

He knew that the Kyushu Video Platform had intricate connections with the remnants of Tianyu and Xinghui. Their “enthusiasm,” he suspected, was likely… a ploy.

“Producer Liu, you’re too kind,” Lin Da’s tone remained calm, betraying no emotional fluctuations. “It’s my honor to contribute to an excellent work like ‘iron-blooded censor’. As for the collaboration with the Kyushu Video Platform, I think it would be better to discuss it after ‘iron-blooded censor’ officially begins filming. My most important task now is to devote all my energy to shaping the role of Song Qi.”

He skillfully steered the conversation back to the role itself, neither directly refusing nor immediately agreeing, leaving himself ample room to maneuver.

Upon hearing this, a subtle hint of surprise flashed in Producer Liu’s eyes. She hadn’t expected Lin Da to be so clear-headed and composed, maintaining such rare calmness in the face of such an enticing “olive branch.”

“Teacher Lin is right,” Producer Liu quickly regained her professional smile. “The role of Song Qi indeed requires your full dedication. Our Purple Cloud Film and Television and Director Zhang Jingzhi will fully support your creative process.”

After hanging up the phone, Lin Da’s eyes deepened.

He knew that this game of chess in the capital was far more complex than he had imagined. The enemies hiding in the shadows, though temporarily quiet, would never give up. They would surely try every possible means to create trouble for him, and even… set traps.

And the Kyushu Video Platform, this seemingly neutral “partner,” its true stance and intentions were becoming increasingly… elusive.

“System, conduct a risk assessment for the ‘exclusive collaboration’ invitation from the Kyushu Video Platform,” Lin Da thought to himself.

“Ding! Oscar Road · Script Radar (Primary) has been activated. Target event being assessed…”

“Event Name: Kyushu Video Platform Exclusive Collaboration Invitation.”

“Potential Opportunity: S-rank (If the collaboration is achieved, you will receive top-tier platform resources, significantly increasing your commercial value and influence in China).”

“Potential Risk: SS-rank (The forces behind the platform are complex, and the collaboration terms may contain hidden traps, attempting to bind the host with certain undesirable capital or controversial projects, thereby limiting the host's future development, and even… ruining the host's reputation).”

“Comprehensive Recommendation: This collaboration presents both opportunities and risks, with risks far outweighing opportunities. It is recommended that the host does not easily agree until the true intentions of the other party have been ascertained and your own rights and interests are fully guaranteed. Consider using Eye of Truth (Intermediate) and [Interpersonal Insight Card] and other tools to conduct in-depth insights into relevant personnel and collaboration terms.”

SS-rank potential risk!

Alarm bells rang in Lin Da’s heart. It seemed that the “olive branch” extended by the Kyushu Video Platform was indeed… fraught with danger!

He took a deep breath, his gaze becoming even more resolute.

He knew that he had to be even more cautious to protect himself in this misty game of chess and ultimately… achieve victory!

In the following days, Lin Da cast aside all distractions, once again completely immersing himself in the script of “iron-blooded censor” and the character of “Song Qi,” a role full of integrity and tragedy.

He activated a newly unlocked item in the system store—[In-depth Acting Analysis Report (Specified Role)].

“System, conduct an in-depth analysis of all key internal monologues and court debate scenes for the character ‘Song Qi’ in the first three episodes of the script.”

“Ding! [In-depth Acting Analysis Report (Song Qi · First Three Episodes)] has been generated. 600 points of prestige consumed.”

As the system prompt sounded, a stream of information, even larger and more detailed than the one that had analyzed Chen Ajiu, flowed into Lin Da’s mind like a gentle trickle.

It was the most precise and profound interpretation of Song Qi’s righteous indignation every time he faced power in the first three episodes, his compassion for the common people every time he pleaded on their behalf, his eloquent arguments in court every time, and… his loneliness and vulnerability as he wrestled with his inner struggles alone in the dead of night.

The report not only analyzed Song Qi’s psychological motivations and behavioral logic in different situations but also provided some… performance detail suggestions that could instantly elevate the character and even… evoke strong resonance from the audience.

For instance, when Song Qi first submitted a memorial to impeach the powerful prime minister of the time, his gaze should not be mere anger or fearlessness, but rather a complex emotion… mixed with worry for the nation’s future, compassion for the suffering of the common people, and… a tragic determination of “though a myriad men oppose me, I shall go forth.”

Another example: when Song Qi and his esteemed teacher had a fierce argument due to differing political views, his tone should not be simple defiance or disrespect, but rather a… painful and helpless expression of respect and filial piety towards his teacher, yet having no choice but to uphold his own inner moral principles.

These details, like the final touch to a painting, instantly elevated Lin Da’s understanding of the character Song Qi to a new, astonishing level.

He knew that he had found… the soul key to portraying this righteous censor!

He began practicing in front of the mirror, over and over again.

His eyes, at times sharp as swords, seemed capable of piercing through all darkness and injustice; at other times, they were as gentle as jade, filled with infinite compassion for the suffering of the common people.

His voice, at times impassioned and resonant like a great bell, awakening the deaf; at other times, deep and hoarse, filled with suppressed pain and… stubborn adherence to ideals.

He seemed to have truly transformed into that lonely guardian who, in the turbulent late Northern Song Dynasty, single-handedly resisted the entire corrupt officialdom, using his flesh and blood to defend the light and justice in his heart.

Just as he was completely immersed in this wonderful experience of soul-merging with the character, Allen Parker’s call came again, his tone carrying an unusual… excitement and… mystery:

“Lin, I have good news for you, news that… will absolutely surprise you!”

“iron-blooded censor crew has an… unexpected ‘guest’!”