Author: Ashinyrock

I got feedback concerning the images for part 1. Most of them being that the text becomes really small. For part 2, I’m trying an option that should not impact reading accessibility, but will take me a teeny tiny bit longer to get a chapter up. Chapter 64 part 1 is back to normal. Thanks for your patience!

As a CD single, the unit price of “Lost Wings” was not expensive and cost far less than music albums. But, that the sales could reach 290,000 within 12 hours proved that “Lost Wings” had the potential to break millions!

By midnight, the first day’s sales statistics for “Lost Wings” was released: 320,000!

Once midnight struck, Huaxia Entertainment’s sales list was updated, and in the third place the two words “Lost Wings” were written in large font!

Love Music sales rankings was Huaxia’s most official album sales ranking list showing the weekly sales statistics of every music CD released in Huaxia. This list was updated every day at midnight and records the total number of sales for every CD per calendar week, ranking them according to specific sales figures.

Since this list is a weekly chart, assuming that an album was released on Sunday, even if its sales on that day far exceeded that of other albums on the same list, it still would not be ranked first since it only had one day’s worth of sales while other albums had seven days of cumulative sales. Only when all album sales are reset on Monday would it be ranked first.

This time, “Lost Wings” was officially released on Wednesday.

If you are not reading this TL at SurrealSkyTranslations, then it was copied. Thanks!

The single-day sales of 320,000 allowed it to reach third place in one fell swoop, only below the first place, “Road”, and the second, “Daylight Forest”. However, “Road” was released three days ago and “Daylight Forest” had been released for six days already.

Such good results made the fans cheer for joy. All over the internet, there were people discussing “Lost Wings”. It was also rare that Rong Xu did not go to bed early. Once he got the accurate sales data, he put down his phone. After coming out of the bath, he received one message after another, and he opened them while replying at the same time.

[Zhao Kun: Congratulations! Based on this momentum, it is likely to break through 10 billion! ]

——[Thank you, Brother Zhao, sharing the joy]

[Luo Zhentao: Hahaha Xiao Xu ^[1] , want to invite several producers for a party tomorrow? Really is too wonderful!]

——[Sure, it’s up to you to plan it, Brother Luo.] 

    ……

Many friends sent their congratulations to Rong Xu. Some of these blessings were sincere, but others would be mixed with traces of envy because 320,000 in sales also meant high profits. That Rong Xu’s first CD could attain such high profit was in large part due to Black Clouds and borrowing Ling Xiao’s fame. It could be said that luck was a major factor.

But, they did not know that Rong Xu would not get any income from this CD. It would all be donated. 

[Zhao Chuyun: 320,000 in sales is very good. I will continue to carry out simultaneous promotions. Rongyun Foundation’s specific account details will be sent to you within three days, and I will also make this matter public. Thank you, Rong Xu. ]

    ——[No need for thanks. Troubling you, Sis Zhao. ]

After replying to Zhao Chuyun, Rong Xu looked at the text sent by the other party for a long time.

The current him was just getting started. For him, this amount of profit was a huge number and would improve his status well. However, some money would be too hot to hold onto^[2].

This was Ling Xiao’s legacy work in which he put in an endless amount of effort and feelings. It is a good key for Rong Xu to enter the music industry. With this stepping stone, if he desires to walk on the path of music in the future, it will be much smoother.

From this song, he gained popularity and also certain things that couldn’t be seen with eyes alone.

As for the missed profits……

Forget it. Anyways, in the future, he will also organize a foundation just like he did in his previous life. No matter how much money a person earns in their life, they can only spend so much. However much power one holds is however much responsibility they carry. Only in this way would he be able to uphold his conscience.

If you are not reading this TL at SurrealSkyTranslations, then it was copied. Thanks!

After completely putting aside the profit’s astronomical figure, Rong Xu was preparing to clean up and go rest but then his phone vibrated again. He glanced down. When he saw the Weibo notification, he became stunned.

[Qin Cheng: “Lost Wings”, 5·2·0, I love you. //Rong Xu: If. If you say there is a tomorrow, then tomorrow’s you…… will you still appear? “Lost Wings”, 5·2·0, I love you. //Huaxia Entertainment: ……]

His eyes widened slowly, and the young man’s eyes were strongly fixed on the phrase “I love you”. Only after a while later did he chuckle softly. At this exact moment, his phone received a text message. 

[Qin Cheng: Before, I was still on the plane. Just arrived in America. Congratulations, CD sold very well.]

The implication was: He reposted the Weibo so late because he had been on the plane and could not turn on his phone.

The youth smiled slightly and quickly replied: [Thank you, I saw your repost.]

A minute later, the phone suddenly began singing. Rong was surprised and picked up the phone.

“Not asleep yet? I remember it should be midnight back home^[3]?” A low and mellow male voice sounded and was transmitted steadily through the phone.

On that side, Qin Cheng seemed to be walking, and there was the faint sound of wind drifting into the microphone, making his voice seem a little wispy. Rong Xu held his phone and slowly laid down on the bed, wearing thin pajamas. He smiled and replied: “En, waited for the CD sales statistics for a bit. It’s currently 00:22 in the country.”

Qin Cheng paused a little and asked: “How was the sales.”

Rong Xu laughed softly: “Quite good.”

Qin Cheng: “…… En.”

At this moment, they had nothing else to say. Qin Cheng was silent for a long time, seemingly unable to find a conversation topic. There was only the soft sound of breathing. But even so, he didn’t hang up the phone, and the awkward atmosphere spread instantly.

Listening to the silence on the other end of the phone, a trace of cunningness flashed across the youth’s eyes. He felt both helpless and amused. He waited quietly for another few minutes, his lips raised slightly further. When the other party seemed to be unable to hold up any longer, he finally asked: “How has your filming been going? I thought you were still in New Zealand.”

“Not too smooth. Female No. 2 recently decided to participate in this quarter’s Fashion Week Show. The director is considering a replacement.”

Rong Xu continued to lead the conversation: “That is indeed quite troublesome.”

Qin Cheng continued to answer: “I am fine, but the director has a headache.”

After saying this, Qin Cheng continued being silent. Rong Xu silently raised the corner of his lips again. Only after waiting a whole minute did he once again ask: “In a while, it will be time for the Golden Phoenix Awards’ Award ceremony. Will you come back to the country?”

Qin Cheng continued answering.

If you are not reading this TL at SurrealSkyTranslations, then it was copied. Thanks!

The two spent a long time in this state of you ask, I answer. Whenever Qin Cheng lacked a conversation topic, Rong Xu would wait again before stirring up the topic. 20 minutes later, this international call finally ended. The youth then got up as if nothing had happened and continued to clean up, turning off the lights to go sleep.

On the other side of the ocean, a handsome and tall man slowly stopped his footsteps and looked at his cell phone thoughtfully.

Xu Jin turned around and asked: ”Why aren’t you leaving? The Crew is still waiting for us.”

His gaze slowly moved away from the phone and the man frowned slightly, asking tentatively: “Is he chatting me up?”^[4]

Xu Jin’s mouth twitched: “Huh?!”

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We’ve reached the super long chapter (~6500+ characters)! This chapter will be broken down into 3 parts.

Also! I am testing out some options to prevent copy/paste in this chapter because bots and other sites have been stealing content. Orz. Please let me know if this option impacts this site’s accessibility for anyone (might impact mobile reading mode). If it does, I will try a different method! Thank You ^u^/

Zhao Kun’s Weibo once again aroused heated discussions between fans and music enthusiasts.

Throughout the screening of Black Clouds, this movie occupied the netizens’ attention. Everyday, on all the major media platforms and movie review sites, you could see the praises and discussions of movie enthusiasts.

However, it wasn’t like there was no one criticizing this movie. After all, there was no single movie that could cater to everyone’s preferences. There were some fans who thought that the movie Black Clouds was too mainstream and overly commercialized. When you should be low-key, you should be low-key. When there should be a climax, then put in a climax. The artistry was weak and could not give the audience any aesthetic or value improvement.

However, Black Clouds was indeed a successful commercial film.

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On May 19, the film was finally taken off screen and only a few theaters still had occasional screenings. Due to the high box office value, the screening duration of Black Clouds had been extended by half a year. If movie enthusiasts still wanted to go watch it, they could go relive it in theaters. However, these purchases no longer had any major impact on the box office numbers.

As soon as Black Clouds was taken off screen, “Lost Wings” was officially released.

This gives movie enthusiasts the feeling that “Lot Wings” is the sequel of Black Clouds and would inspire purchasing.

So on May 20th, when Rong Xu opened his cell phone and looked at his private forum, he saw a pinned note.

“A butterfly that had lost its wings, let it fly once more!”

Upon opening the post to see, it turned out to be the Rosie United Fan Forum’s moderator urging fans to purchase the “Lost Wings” CD single. In this post, Rosie publicized a few of the main selling times and locations, and at the same time, released some news about the single: there are Rong Xu’s CD posters, photos, and promotional videos for the variety shows that Rong Xu had participated in before. 

They did not pressure every fan to go buy singles, but rather gave fans who wanted to buy singles a purchasing method and channel.

This post was done beautifully, a combination of various tags and pictures with the information being concise and clear. Scrolling down, Rong Xu froze slightly. After examining it for a while, the corner of his lips involuntarily hooked up and he shook his head helplessly. 

If you are not reading this TL at SurrealSkyTranslations, then it was copied. Thanks!

If it could be said that Weibo was a highly public platform where anyone, regardless if you were a sunspot or a passer-by, could comment, then a celebrity’s personal fan forum was a fan’s haven. For example, stars under Huaxia Entertainment’s flag could all create private fan forums hosted by Huaxia Entertainment’s official website.

If you wanted to join the fan forum, in addition to paying a specific amount of membership fee each year, you also had to answer fifty questions about the celebrity. The allotted answering time was limited to one hour and the questions were decided by the moderator. Once the number of wrong answers reached a certain percentage then you could not enter the forum.

This method of auditing greatly improved the quality of the forum fans. Fans who were able to enter were all basically a celebrity’s die-hard fans. Although there were still sunspots who infiltrated the fan forums after spending a lot of hard work, they were ultimately a minority.

In this sort of fan forum, it was rare to see any trace of sunspots. Throughout the forum, there were resource posts and confession posts.

The post by Rosie also received enthusiastic responses from the fans. Not only were there a mountain of “Buy, Buy, Buy” shouts, but also many fans who went out in search of their own city’s selling locations.

The purchase locations divulged by Rosie were all very large stores. Huaxia was huge, and the CDs were all circulated from distributors to retailers around the world for sale. There was no way for her to list all of them. However, with the help of fans, the selling information of “Lost Wings” was better detailed, and fans who were unable to buy the CDs gained more sources to purchase from.

Throughout the entire morning, Rong Xu laid on the sofa and constantly read the fan messages.

After Rong Xu finished the commercial shooting for Luck Potato Chips last month, he also participated in several music related programs to promote “Lost Wings”. Then, he returned to B City to rest and prepare for this month’s filming of Maze City.

During this time, Rong Xu always stayed alone in B City, occasionally meeting up with Tang Menglan, Ye Qiao and others for a meal. But, most of the time, he still stayed at home to rest. In this empty apartment, he was the only person. Thus, he caught up on many movies in the theater room by himself; cooked by himself; cleaned the house by himself; and silently browsed through his phone for a month.

After reading the more than 5,000 comments on this post, it was already noon. Rong Xu cooked some noodles casually and ate while opening up his Weibo, reposting a post.

[Rong Xu: If. If you say there is a tomorrow, then tomorrow’s you…… will you still appear? “Lost Wings”, 5·2·0, I love you. [Smile][Smile][Smile]// Huaxia Entertainment Music Station: “Lost Wings” is coming to meet you, May 20 (05/20), The meeting is decided. Purchase locations: official website [link], Alimama [link], Music station [link]]

Before long, fans exploded this Weibo post, crazily brushing comments.

[Rong Rong! I love you! Look at the CD I just bought! [image]]

[Love Love Love Love Love, I also love you, Rong Rong! Come see my “Lost Wings” [image]]

[I can’t wait any longer Aaaahhhhh, I just placed an order on the official website but it won’t be delivered till the day after tomorrow. No, I’m going out right now to a physical store to buy, buy, buy! I like Ling Xiao the most, like Rong Rong the most, like “Lost Wing” the most! ]

Somehow, below Rong Xu’s Weibo, fans all started to share pictures of their own “Lost Wings” CD. Some pictures only had one CD, some pictures included a fan’s notes to Rong Xu, and some pictures had more than one CD, there were two, three …… even 10 CDs!

[Tang Menglan: Meeting, Meeting, Meeting, Sounds good~//Rong Xu: If. If you say there is a tomorrow……]

[Yeqiao: Haha, I also bought a CD~[image]//Rong Xu: If…]

[Zhang Tongtong: I just had my assistant go fight for one. It’s terrifying. It was a sea of people, so many people, ah ^[2] ~ [Image]//RongXu: If……]

[Director Liang Chao: I have employee benefits, don’t need to fight for it~[image]//Rong Xu: If…]

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After Rong Xu reposted this Weibo, many celebrities, including his friends, crew members of Black Clouds, and even some of Black Clouds’ big-name guest stars, also reposted his Weibo, lending free publicity for “Lost Wings”.

This was a matter of mutual benefit. For example, Tang Menglan helped Rong Xu repost his Weibo to promote “Lost Wings” now. Whereas, last week, Rong Xu also helped Tang Menglan repost her Weibo to promote her new drama.

With these people’s promotion, more and more netizens came to know about “Lost Wings”’s release news and purchasing information. Some netizens have long known that “Lost Wings” was going to be released. However, they didn’t know that it was going to be released today and could be purchased online. So after they saw the Weibo posts, they would click on the link and conveniently buy it.

By eight o’clock that night, the cumulative sale of “Lost Wings” had reached 290,000.

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Bolded words were originally in English

“Action!”

The moment a voice sounded, a high-wattage stage light immediately illuminated from Rong Xu’s right-front side, flashing across his beautiful and delicate face.

In just a brief second, Rong Xu suddenly kicked the stone wall with his right foot, flipped over in a circular moon shape and then used his left foot to kick off another cliff, appearing as if he were flying along the walls and passing through this small cavernous space.

The set location prepared by the crew was on the inside of a cave. The rocks here were quite peculiar. The rocks hid a fluorescent glow underneath them, which emitted a faint blue light that lit up the cave like daytime.

Within this extraordinary scenery there was the charming figure of a youth donned in a black windbreaker rapidly flying between fluorescent stone walls.The asymmetrical costume design and the silver crystals dotted on the collar gave this outfit a distinctive style. Black, close-fitting pants clung to those straight and slender legs. The moment he landed on the ground, he kneeled on his left knee and supported himself with his right hand. He looked up sharply, his eyes cold, and gave off a dangerous aura..

“Cut!”

This scene ended here.

Though it seemed only a few tens of seconds passed, the various action-packed scenes in it were more difficult than shooting a ten-minute cultural film.

Stephen watched the monitor screen carefully. Only after examining it back and forth three times did he look up at Rong Xu, who was at the center of the set, and say: “Again. The third action wasn’t smooth enough, I want it to be crisp and clean! Rong, you know what it is I want; I want the coolest actions, the most handsome Huaxia Kungfu!”

Rong Xu nodded slightly, and the makeup artist fixed his makeup again. Then, they began shooting the scene for the second time.

Action films were different from cultural films. Solely having acting skills was not enough, it also required proper coordination. First, the actor must be well versed on the director’s filming process. Second, one must be familiar with the stunt wires. Then, they have to coordinate with the light technicians and cameraperson, etc. Only this way would a perfect composition be created. 

Only when this scene was on its third take did big-belly Stephen excitedly yell: “Perfect!”

Thus, it was considered to have passed.

The make-up artist stepped forward to help Rong Xu wipe his sweat and touch up his makeup. At this moment, Deng Yiwen also finished his makeup and came out. When he walked out, he saw Rong Xu who was surrounded by a group of staff members.

Rong Xu’s 185 (cm) height allowed him to stand out amongst this many people, his posture upright. His hair was slightly long with the left side clipped up with an invisible black clip. Most of his black hair was fixed to the right side with hairspray, revealing a good half of his fair and beautiful face. 

Within the soft silky black hair, there were broken strands of silver dyed in. The shining rays of silver interspersed in the middle of the black hair made it extraordinarily dazzling; the youth’s skin appeared even fairer but also added a cold and ruthless sci-fi ambience. 

Rong Xu’s face had a very high level of malleability and there was no doubt that this type of futuristic appearance suited him quite well. In a crowd, you could see him at a glance, unable to look away.

Deng Yiwen dejectedly glanced at Rong Xu a few times before turning to look towards his own little assistant, saying with a smile: “He is actually not bad, isn’t he?”

The assistant gave Rong Xu a few glances and said: “His type isn’t commonly seen in the entertainment circle, he only looks good. That’s it.”

Deng Yiwen raised his eyebrows: “Dong Zheng had said that his acting skills were also good.”

The assistant spread out their hands and didn’t say anymore.

Later, they once again started on Rong Xu’s scenes.

The context of Rong Xu’s commercial was that he arrived at this cave and fought against the invisible dark storm that was inside. At last, he was finally going to obtain the treasure, but then, Deng Yiwen appears. For the sake of the ultimate treasure, the two began another spectacular round of battle. In the end, Rong Xu wins the treasure and is transported to the ultimate battlefield. Deng Yiwen can only resume his search for the fourth treasure. 

Among these four spokespersons, Rong Xu’s image belonged to a ruthless and rational type, so his hair was highlighted with silver. On the other hand, Deng Yiwen was comic relief. He was responsible for playing around and creating comedic aspects. Thus, he always wore white clothing with blonde-dyed hair.

This character design was part of the Hollywood template. Although it was lousy, the audience would always eagerly eat up this setting.

Rong Xu filmed some of the action scenes on set. Among these, he had to imagine the existence of a dark storm and fight against it. This was the first time he filmed action scenes and he needed three takes before it satisfied Stephen. When they reached the fourth action scene, as soon as he finished, Stephen, with his big belly, applauded happily and directly went up to hug the youth making Rong Xu unable to decide if he should laugh or cry.

“Spectacular! Rong, just maintain this feeling and let’s continue!”

With Stephen’s words, all the members of the crew dived into their work with increased excitement.

Deng Yiwen sat in a chair, smiling, and chatted with one of the working girls on the set. Hearing Stephen’s words, he quietly glanced back at Rong Xu before smiling and moving his sight away.

Next, Rong Xu was considered to have eradicated the dark storm and was close to getting the treasure. At this moment, it was time for Deng Yiwen’s appearance.

Deng Yiwen and the girl joked around some more before he entered the set.

Rong Xu was about to finish up and handed Luo Zhentao the towel he used to wipe his sweat. He looked up and saw Deng Yiwen grinning and beckoning toward him, exposing a set of neat, white teeth. Rong Xu raised his eyebrows but still waved at the other party with a smile.

Big-bellied Stephen looked over the stage and then raised his hand: “Action!”

The filming site of Luck Potato Chips was busy, and in the outside word, music and movie enthusiasts have already collectively exploded. 

To date, the cumulative box office for Black Clouds has already broken 4 billion and was steadily closing in on 5 billion. Simultaneously^[1] , Zhao Chuyun had been following up on the promotional plans for “Lost Wings”. That afternoon, she had Zhao Kun post nine photos on his private Weibo account.

Of the nine photos, eight photos showed only the blurry silhouettes of two people, obviously done through PS (photoshop) blurring. However, in the centermost photo there was a youth in a red jacket. His left hand was stretched out to cover his left cheek, resulting in the right side of his face being even more prominent.

From the corner of his upturned eyes, red cinnabar hooked upwards and outlined a captivating arch. Those light-colored pupils were like a lake immersed in moonlight, peaceful and quiet, capturing your spirit and soul inside.

The photo was coupled with Zhao Kun’s Weibo text——

[5, 2, 0^[2] “Lost Wings”, Coming to meet you!]

Proofreader/Beta Reader: IzoRen

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Don’t worry if you have no idea what is going on in the commercial. Even our MC RongRong is bewildered XD.

Luck Potato Chips was the largest potato chip brand in the world. Thus, the spokespersons they choose would naturally not be ordinary stars.

There were a total of four spokespersons for this particular potato chip commercial. Excluding the young woman^[1] whose contract had expired, there were three other popular stars. One of them was Qi Rong, a first-tier actress who made a one-hit success with a youthful chick flick. Another was Bao Jiahong, a well-known singer known as the Little King of Hip-Hop. There was also the one preparing to shoot the advertisement scenes with Rong Xu, Deng Yiwen.

Deng Yiwen is a popular student under the Streaming Lights Entertainment Company. Seven years ago, he debuted with a youthful idol drama, and in recent years, he has performed in many modern and ancient-style idol dramas. It wasn’t until last year when he starred as Male No.2 in a power-struggle drama^[2] that he achieved a one-hit success, reached first-tier, and gained countless fans.

Although after the beginning of this year, Deng Yiwen’s recent modern romance movie had extremely low viewings, poor ratings and popularity, in general, he was still a first-tier trainee and would not fall into second-tier within this year.

To be able to get to such a position, Deng Yiwen definitely wouldn’t be stupid like Han Yanghao. At nine o’clock in the morning, he appeared at the crew on time. His assistant and the director were also in discussion to determine today’s shooting process.

Inside the dressing room, an experienced makeup artist was helping Rong Xu dye his hair when they saw a clean and handsome boy walk in. The other party greeted everyone enthusiastically with a “Good morning”. Afterwards, he happily sat down and said to the makeup artist at the side: “I am late today, Should I do my hair and makeup at the same time? At least, this way we can save some time.”

A makeup artist immediately stepped forward and smiled: “Not late, it’s only nine o’clock, just right.”

Deng Yiwen smiled and saw Rong Xu, who was dyeing his hair, through the mirror.

It was already May, and the weather in Hengdian was about 20 degrees Celsius today. Rong Xu had already donned his costume, but Deng Yiwen was still wearing his short-sleeved t-shirt. In this weather, wearing short-sleeve clothing would still make one slightly chilled, but Deng Yiwen actually kept fanning himself non-stop. While fanning, he turned towards Rong Xu, saying with a smile: “So, you are Rong Xu? I am Deng Yiwen. I am happy to be able to work with you today, haha.”

In his past life, Rong Xu had met many people like Deng Yiwen, this type of star who assumed familiarity with everyone. He nodded with a smile and said: “Hello, I am Rong Xu. Happy cooperation.”

Deng Yiwen’s handsome and sunny face showed a bright smile towards Rong Xu, and then he turned back to continue to tease the makeup artist. The female makeup artist, who was in her early thirties, was teased into laughter. When Rong Xu’s hair was finished dyeing, the two of them were still laughing happily.

Rong Xu turned to look at Deng Yiwen, saying politely: “Then, I’m going to go film first.”

Deng Yiwen smiled happily and waved at him: “Okay, I’ll come right away.”

Rong Xu’s eyes glanced casually at the back of Deng Yiwen’s head before he got up and left. Today, he (RX) had the most scenes, while Deng Yiwen only had four or five scenes. Even if Deng Yiwen came to the crew in the afternoon, it would not be an issue. However, the other party still arrived on time and gave Rong Xu a good impression.

Although, this person seemed to be a bit frivolous.

    —— Rong Xu added secretly in his heart.

Leaving the rambunctious and laughter-filled dressing room, Rong Xu went directly to the set and prepared to film his part. 

The moment he left the door of the dressing room, his steps paused, and he looked back subconsciously. However, he found that the people inside were still laughing and messing around with Deng Yiwen.

Not thinking too much about it, Rong Xu went to shoot his hard-copy posters first.

But, just as he left the dressing room, Deng Yiwen’s gaze flicked lightly towards him, the corner of his mouth curving upwards, and then he looked away.

During the entire morning, Rong Xu finished taking all of his hard-copy pictures.

This time, Luck Potato Chips’s commercial background was set in outer space in the future, and there were four super-powered individuals fighting for treasure. Based on sequential order, Bao Jiahong will be the first super-powered individual to get the treasure. Qi Rong will be second, Deng Yiwen will be fourth, and Rong Xu will be third.

After everyone acquires a treasure, they will be teleported to the ultimate battlefield where they will be sealed in ice, waiting for the four treasures to come together before they can break open the ice and truly start the final battle for the ultimate treasure.

As for what the ultimate treasure hidden in the glowing light is… it is naturally Luck potato chips.

A super blockbuster; popular, handsome stars; coupled with stunning, eye-catching visual effects, the final pursuit of this blockbuster advertisement was actually potato chips! Although he didn’t know who thought up such a unique advertising idea, Rong Xu knew that this advertisement must be extremely expensive.

The scenes of all four spokespersons added together was already 30 minutes long. And within this 30 minutes, it was packed with action scenes and mostly special effects. Every single frame was simply robbing money (Expensive).

Though, the director who came to direct today’s advertisement is a famous Hollywood director, Stephen Griffin. This top director’s movies all had one common feature: High costs and enormous spending.

Once Rong Xu finished taking his costume photo stills and officially prepared to start filming, Stephen immediately turned his eyes away from the script to stare at Rong Xu. His eyes lit up as he walked over excitedly, holding a big belly, and said with excitement: “Uh-maz-ing^[3]! Rong, this appearance truly is good-looking. I already can’t wait to film you.”

Stephen’s Chinese couldn’t be regarded as perfect, but it could still be understood. He could even use idioms proficiently.

Over these past years, for the sake of going beyond the country’s borders, all of Huaxia’s directors could speak English fluently; and Hollywood directors, who wanted to compete in the Huaxia market and win Huaxia’s awards, would also study and work hard. There was even a Hollywood common saying: The more famous the director, the better their Chinese was.

Humans have always been moved by capital and interests. No matter how hard Chinese was to learn, in order to access the Huaxia market and compete with Huaxia movies, these top Hollywood directors would study day and night to conquer this grand mountain called Chinese.

In the span of his two lifetimes, Rong Xu discovered that these big foreign directors usually had one unique characteristic: either they were super eccentric, arrogant and narcissistic, and difficult to communicate with; or they were passionate and fiery and couldn’t help but extol you with all the best praises in the world, without repeats. 

Obviously, Stephen belonged to the latter.

The handsome young man smiled and said sincerely: “Being able to work together with you is my honor.”

Stephen immediately praised again: “No, no, no. I really do like this appearance. It’s really cool.”

The curve of Rong Xu’s lips rose a bit more as he calmly replied: “I also cannot wait to work with you.”

The two praised each other a few more times. At the side, a Huaxia assistant director glanced at Rong Xu a few more times in surprise. Unexpectedly, this young child was actually able to talk to Stephen for long without a change in expression. 

When Stephen went to go coordinate with the other units to prepare for the day’s first shots, that assistant director secretly gave Rong Xu a thumbs-up and whispered: “This foreign director is too enthusiastic. I’d already made several films with him before. Rong Xu, you are the one who has dealt with him the best. You didn’t see, but even Qi Rong was flattered by this old man until he was red-faced and heart thumping, almost unable to hold back (from escaping).”

After hearing this, Rong Xu blinked innocently, but the corners of his mouth tilted up: “I’m only speaking the truth.”

This assistant director’s admiration for him deepened a little more. 

His words were such, but when Rong Xu finished discussing with the action director and was preparing to head onto the filming site, he slowly became serious and the smile on his face vanished. The sturdy film wires gradually lifted the youth. On the ground, the rotund director who was previously praising the young man also gradually composed his expressions, watching Rong Xu seriously.

Rong Xu’s eyes stayed on Stephen’s serious countenance for a bit, and then shook his head helplessly.

Sure enough, this was a Hollywood director in the most traditional sense —— when praising you to the sky, he would make you feel as if you were his most beloved protagonist. But once you truly started filming, he would become so strict that it would make any actor doubt whether they should’ve entered the entertainment circle.

  “！”

TL Corner: Why did I end it on an exclamation mark? Don’t worry, it’s not a cliffhanger. ヽ(゜∇゜)ノ*:･ﾟ✧
Proofreader/Beta Editor: IzoRen

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The two chatted for another while, and then the discussion came to Rong Xu’s next announcement. The commercial had been decided. Luo Zhentao helped Rong Xu receive a potato chip advertisement. This potato chip had a total of four spokespersons, both men and women, all of whom were popular male leads and pretty young women. This time, the contract for one of the previous young women had expired and they decided on Rong Xu.

As a result, this potato chip now had 3 male leads and 1 pretty young woman for endorsements.

Although this endorsement was not a solo endorsement, which seemed to treat Rong Xu poorly,  in actuality, Luo Zhentao explained: “Luck (The brand) is very popular, and is a large global chain company. Their endorsements never have only one person. The other three endorsers all have first tier popularity. This time, Luck believes that after Black Clouds, your popularity will soar; thus, you were given this notification.”

Rong Xu nodded slightly. He naturally understood the reason why such a big endorsement could not be enjoyed by one person alone. However, what he was more concerned about was: “When we are shooting the ad in two days, will it still be all four people together?”

Luo Zhentao smiled softly: “Basically, it will be you alone. The endorsement for the three of them had already been filmed long ago. Only need to shoot your posters and advertisements. However, I am also not too certain. For their commercial, they invited a Hollywood director to come shoot, and it will be a story made of a combination of multiple action scenes where you four will come together to capture potato chips^[1] .

It may take some time before the final gathering segment is filmed because they need to schedule it for when all four spokespersons have time. Though, for your solo action scenes, there may also be other spokespersons who will appear. It depends on the script that the advertising agency gives us tomorrow.”

Rong Xu nodded thoughtfully and did not express much opinion on this. 

He came today, not only to find an assistant and confirm the endorsement, but also to discuss his next movie.

Under the bright and dazzling lights, the youth’s eyes looked up at Luo Zhentao, his lips slightly curled up, revealing a calm and steady smile: “Brother Luo, for the next film I want to accept Maze City.”^[2]

The next day, Rong Xu received the script from Luo Zhentao via email. He carefully read the advertising script of “Luck Potato Chips”. The entire script was not long; after shooting and editing, the entire episode should only be five minutes long. But, during the last minute, there really were scenes that included co-starring with the other spokespersons.

Rong Xu carefully read through the section with the other spokespersons several times. In the afternoon, he received a text message from Luo Zhentao: [Maze City has been confirmed on their side. You will join the crew next month and participate in the press conferences and introduction ceremonies. This movie has double male leads. When they release the film in the end, you and the other male lead will receive the same level of treatment. PS: Xiao Luo has already started to take over fan management today. If you need anything, you can contact her. Her phone number is ……]

Rong Xu saved Xiao Luo’s number in his phone. When he raised his head, he saw Qin Cheng walk out of the bedroom.

The two looked at each other, and Rong Xu waved his hand, saying with a smile: “I remember you will be going to New Zealand to film next week, right, Qin Cheng?”

Qin Cheng was a bit confused, not really understanding why the youth would ask him about that at this time. He nodded in tacit agreement, but he hadn’t inquired further when he saw Rong Xu get up from the sofa and walk in front of him, saying: “Let’s go downstairs for a stroll? You were busy the day before yesterday and left halfway.”

Hearing this, Qin Cheng’s heart slightly shook. The corner of his lips raised quietly, but his face still showed an unfazed appearance, and his tone was very calm: “Okay.” He said it seemingly indifferently, but he still went back to the house to get his coat.

Rong Xu watched in surprise as he walked back to the room. When Qin Cheng came out, he was wearing a slim, black trench coat, whereas Rong Xu was still wearing a simple pullover and jeans. A simple comparison between the two; one was youthful, clean and casual, and the other was strikingly handsome enough to be able to directly hop on a T stage and walk a (fashion) show.

Rong Xu: “Actually I just wanted to go downstairs and do some shopping.”

Qin Cheng: “… En.”

In this way, the two went downstairs together and walked a few laps around the garden. When they reached the final lap, Rong Xu turned his head to look at the man next to him. He said softly: “The day after tomorrow, I’m going to the HengDian^[3] to shoot an advertisement. Could be considered an advertising blockbuster.”

Qin Cheng froze for a moment: “You’re leaving the day after tomorrow?” 

He wasn’t leaving for New Zealand to film until next week, but this youth was already leaving the day after tomorrow!

Rong Xu nodded: “En.”

After a pause, Rong Xu narrowed his eyes slightly and looked at Qin Cheng. His narrow and long phoenix eyes reflected Qin Cheng’s slightly shocked expression. Rong Xu’s eyes held a gleam. Those pupils were clear and clean, yet no one could guess what was going through his mind. After a while, Qin Cheng only heard Rong Xu say mildly: “If Aunt Qin is worried about me and wants you to look after me … you can call me.” ^[4]

Qing Cheng was stunned stiff, looking carefully at Rong Xu. It took him a long time before he nodded and said: “Okay.”

The two strolled for a while longer without speaking and then went upstairs.

Two days later, Rong Xu and Luo Zhentao left City B together and arrived at the spring-filled Hengdian. When he last came here to film Vie for Supremacy, it was still summer. It has been almost one whole year now.

The place was the same, but the people were no longer the same. This time, the crew member sent to pick up Rong Xu was an assistant director, not an ordinary staff member. After Rong Xu entered the crew, he quickly got acquainted with the director and other staff while waiting for the arrival of the last spokesperson.

TL Corner: Surreal: “You used to call me on my cell phone, Late night when you need my love, Call me on my cell phone” థ ౪థ 

Proofreader: Izo.Ren: PLEASE. NO. LOL NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO THE FACE 

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After Zhao Kun posted this Weibo, the Black Clouds crew immediately reposted it.

Countless music fans and Black Clouds audience members saw this news and understood it almost immediately

Rong Xu is going to collaborate with Zhao Kun to perform “Lost Wings”!

“There is a song called Yearning”, “a butterfly that had lost its wings”, those are all lyrics of “Lost Wings”! During the 5 days that Black Clouds had been playing in theaters, the same phenomenon occurred in many movie theaters: many audience members did not leave the room during the closing credits, but rather sat quietly in place, listening to “Lost Wings”.

“Lost Wings” played at the very end of the movie, when the camera slowly panned away from Ling Xiao’s gravesite and aimed towards the sky that was covered in black clouds. 

When this song sounded, countless memories scrolled through on the movie screen. There were scenes of the time when Ling Xiao once sang at the subway entrance, scenes where Ling Xiao just entered the entertainment circle and struggled earnestly, scenes where Ling Xiao and Gu Mingxiu endeavored together to achieve success, and scenes where Ling Xiao fell ill and passed away quietly.

When these scenes ended, the black clouds in the sky dissipated, the sun shone onto the ground, and the movie faded to black. But up to here, only the first part of “Lost Wings” was played!

Thus, the audience sat in place patiently, listening to the song and watching the credits.

During the credits, many movies would insert some interesting tidbits or Easter Eggs. This was another method of retaining the audience and allowing them time and space for reverie – for fond memories. 

But, Black Clouds only finished playing this song. Yet, the audience listened to the youth’s soft singing voice and could recall the things they saw during those past 2 hours, better understanding the movie.

Now, this song was finally going to be released!

[Buy buy buy! ! ! I watched this movie three times. The first two times were for the movie. Last night, it was entirely for listening to Rong Xu’s “Lost Wings”. This song really is so good. The Music God failed to release this song during his years. Now, I really want to make up for this regret! 】

[QAQ Wuwuwuwu. Don’t talk about this song, whenever I hear of it I will remember the rest of the melody and will want to cry again……]

[Aaaahhhhhhhh. Finally will be released! Still Rong Xu’s singing! No one can stop me, I want to buy five albums, ten albums!]

Black Clouds was currently playing, and was super hot in the box office. Using this time frame to announce the production of “Lost Wings” really was considered borrowing a Westerly wind^[1].

As soon as the fans of Black Clouds heard this news, they all responded enthusiastically.

Not to mention Rong Xu’s fans. For them, this was Rong Xu’s first ever single. Regardless of whether or not Rong Xu would formally enter the music scene, this song held an extraordinary commemorative significance. 

Moreover, Rong Xu’s fans naturally went to the theaters and watched Black Clouds. As long as one had seen this movie, it was difficult not to like this song since this song was played during the climax of the movie and aided in boosting the audience’s mood to the highest point.

With the support of movie enthusiasts and fans, #LostWings# was very quickly propelled into the top ten hot searches. 

Not only that, in the Forum section of Tieba, you could see people discussing “Lost Wings” everywhere.

Most netizens were very excited and looking forward to the news regarding the production of “Lost Wings”. They all had a ready wallet, anticipating to buy. There were also some sunspots who were muddling the waters at this time, saying “Rong Xu’s singing is unpleasant” and “this song is not good at all.” However, they were immediately scolded into hiding by fans, without success.

When Rong Xu arrived at the Huaxia Entertainment Building, it was already four o’clock in the afternoon.

The news about the upcoming release of “Lost Wings” had been widely publicized. Although most of the popularity was driven by the movie enthusiasts and fans, Zhao Chuyun also invested in large marketing firms, found some media reporters, and released announcements.

When Rong Xu came to the Huaxia Entertainment Building half a year ago, he was just a nameless, unknown newcomer. But now, he already had a movie with a box office of 1.6 billion in five days. Every staff member who saw him while walking around in the company building all quietly stole some extra glances. Additionally, before Rong Xu arrived at Luo Zhentao’s office, he had already signed autographs for five or six fans.

Upon seeing Rong Xu, Luo Zhentao quickly got up from the office chair and said with a smile: “Little Xu, you came so early, did you hear the good news already?”

Rong Xu nodded with a smile and handed over the bag of bread in his hand, saying: “I heard when I was sitting in the taxi.”

“Oh, you even brought something for me to eat.” Luo Zhentao received the bag of bread, opened it and ate a slice of toast while speaking: “You came at the perfect time. Later, the new assistant I found for you will be here; take a look. I found two people. If you are not satisfied, I can change them. There cannot be a mistake. The assistants have to take care of you for a long time. If you can’t get along, it will be highly inconvenient.”

Rong Xu nodded.

When Luo Zhentao called Rong Xu in the afternoon, it was for him to come over when he was free to take a look at the assistants he had chosen for him. At that time, Luo Zhentao accidentally revealed that he had been too busy to eat lunch today, so Rong Xu brought a bag of bread for him on the way.

A small gesture is better than nothing.  ^[2]

Before long, the two assistants came. Both of them were young girls, carrying the temperament of those who just freshly graduated from college. When they saw Rong Xu, they looked at him curiously, unable to hide the excitement in their eyes.

Although Rong Xu still could not be considered a first-tier star, his popularity has soared within the last six months. Ambush, Vie for Supremacy, and the current Black Clouds. Though he didn’t have as many works or qualifications as some new fresh meat, he had a sort of popularity that other fresh meat did not.

As long as this kind of popularity was used well and accumulated well, then in the future it would be his strength and capital.

Rong Xu spoke with the two girls for a while, before choosing one to stay. 

Luo Zhentao introduced: “Coincidentally, this girl and I are family. She is also surnamed Luo, named Luo Qian. Little Xu, she is seven years older than you, 25 years this year. You can call her Xiao Luo (Little Luo). Xiao Luo, from tomorrow on, you will be responsible for Rong Xu’s food, clothing, housing, and transportation … um no, you don’t have to be responsible for housing. Just send him home everyday, don’t have to do housekeeping or anything like that. Also, you should manage and contact the fan’s. Give me a detailed plan within three days.”

This little girl had previously been staring at Rong Xu and couldn’t move her sight away. But, hearing Luo Zhentao’s words, she nodded immediately: “Okay, I understand.”

Since she was to start work tomorrow, then this young woman would have to go through the formalities today and leave Huaxia Entertainment’s agent training department.

Luo Zhentao smiled and said to Rong Xu: “The ones I picked are all the good seedlings in the training department this year. I originally wanted to choose boys, but girls are more careful and it is easier for them to communicate with the fans.”

Rong Xu nodded in agreement: “I agree, Xiao Luo is very good.”

TL corner: I thought I would be able to finish the whole chapter in one go, since it was a bit shorter. But, there were soooo many internet slang and popular phrases Orz.

Proofreader/BetaReader: Izo.Ren

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