Gu Tingshen looked at his secretary Qin with slight bewilderment, noticing the swirling mist of colorful fog hovering above his head. Though the colors were all pale, they could not be ignored – white, gray, purple, and gold, changing shape as Qin moved, as if blown by the wind.
“President Gu, breakfast is ready,” Secretary Qin seemed oblivious to the situation as he smiled and greeted Gu Tingshen as usual.
Gu Tingshen didn’t respond. He squeezed his eyes shut, then slowly opened them again to look at Secretary Qin.
This time, the colorful mist above Qin’s head had vanished, leaving only empty air, as if everything Gu Tingshen had seen was merely an illusion.
He blinked again but still saw nothing.
Could it be hallucinations from too many dreams?
“… President Gu?” After a long silence, Secretary Qin glanced back and saw Gu Tingshen frowning with closed eyes. Thinking something was wrong, he hurried over and asked with concern, “Are you feeling unwell? Should I call a doctor?”
Gu Tingshen watched the other party approaching step by step, but there was still nothing above his head. Finally giving up his exploration, he tiredly massaged his temples and said, “…I’m fine, probably didn’t rest well last night.”
With a wave of his hand, he added, “Let’s eat first. Today’s schedule is full, let’s try to finish early.”
After speaking, he headed to the dining table.
Seeing this, Secretary Qin didn’t say more and followed him over.
*
At the filming site, Jing Li also got up early.
He had scenes to shoot this morning with multiple actors, so he wanted to arrive early and familiarize himself with everyone.
After makeup, he walked onto the set and saw the other actors gathered, either sitting or standing, scripts in hand, seeming to be rehearsing lines.
Jing Li hurried over and apologized sincerely, “Sorry, did I come late? I didn’t expect everyone to be here so early.”
“No worries, we just got here not long ago,” Fu Yan reassured him with a smile. The others also laughed and waved their hands to indicate it was fine.
“No problem at all. We haven’t even started yet.”
“Don’t worry about it, you’re early. Makeup just took more time for you.”
……
“Jing Li, come over here,” Hu Li waved enthusiastically and slid over to make space, “Lele and I saved you a seat.”
Jing Li smiled gratefully and sat down, taking out his script.
Just then, an elder actor across from him in imperial robes suddenly scoffed coldly, “Young people nowadays, relying on some acting skills to become arrogant. Late for rehearsals, acting like some talent means you’ve mastered acting?!”
The old man had not lowered his voice, so everyone heard him clearly. It was obvious he was reprimanding Jing Li, and an awkward silence spread through the room.
Jing Li paused, then looked up at the man with a humble smile. “Senior, are you referring to me? I apologize. I was indeed in the wrong and will be more mindful going forward.”
Though the words were harsh, Jing Li sensed no malice from the other. He was likely trying to teach Jing Li a lesson, just in an insensitive way. Seeing Jing Li’s sincere apology rather than anger, the old man’s expression softened slightly. He gave Jing Li a glance but said no more.
The middle-aged man beside the elder let out an easy laugh, smoothing things over. “It’s rare to see Lao Chen mentoring a junior. Seems you have high hopes for Jing Li!”
Looking at Jing Li appraisingly, he added with a smile, “I must say, his performance yesterday was quite impressive.”
“I heard this is only Jing Li’s second drama? To perform so well without formal training, I foresee another rising star in our industry soon.”
“Teacher Zhang flatters me,” Jing Li politely nodded to the man but did not accept the praise. Smiling at everyone, he said, “Compared to seniors here, I still have much to learn. Please guide me more in the future.”
His words were humble yet confident, praising others while not boasting of himself. This immediately won favor from the group.
Naturally, they also played along to give Jing Li a way out. Laughing, they chimed in.
“We’re all part of this crew. No need to be too polite. Going forward, we can all learn from each other.”
“Hahaha, look at how humble you are.”
“Talented and diligent, we old-timers will soon be washed up on the beach.”
“It’s fine, we know you had something come up yesterday.”
……
With the back-and-forth banter, the atmosphere soon grew lively again.
Finally, Lao Chen, who had spoken up earlier, called for them to stop the flattery and start rehearsing again.
The scene involved the second male lead returning from secret investigations to openly question the king about a treason case in court before all ministers, incurring the angry emperor’s desire to punish him, while the ministers pleaded for leniency or supported prosecution.
Through this case and the turbulent court struggle, the factional politics of the court were revealed, along with the corruption and incompetence of the rulers.
It was an important scene foreshadowing the male lead’s resolve later.
Since it was a big scene, they rehearsed together several times until called by the director to start filming.
With the director’s cue, filming officially began.
In the grand imperial hall, Lao Chen, as the aged emperor, sat aloofly on the dragon throne, gazing down imperiously as the ministers knelt and cried, “Long live the Emperor!” Gone was his earlier sternness, replaced by indifferent majesty.
As if he had completely transformed into the supreme emperor, it was not until everyone knelt on the ground for a moment that he raised his hands to signal them to stand up.
The actors playing the ministers below also immediately entered the scene, putting on faces that were deeply surrendered by the emperor’s majesty. Their faces showed a bit of awe for the imperial power and the people sitting on the dragon throne. After they stood up, they kept their lowered, looking down at their feet. They didn’t say a word, and their faces were even tighter, not daring to reveal any emotion.
Not until the head eunuch acting as imperial attendant declared the routine “Petition with matters, withdraw without” did someone step forward from the crowd to make a report, bowing to petition their affairs.
“Your Majesty, by your boundless grace, the Jiazhou temporary palace is nearly complete. It is expected to be ready for relocation before Minor Cold1小寒 (xiǎo hán) is one of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar. It means “minor cold” and it marks the beginning of the coldest time of the year. It usually falls around January 5th or 6th in the Gregorian calendar next month.”
The speaker was the previous middle-aged man, Zhang Guolin. Gone was his usual smiling look, replaced by lowered brows and a fawning, crouching posture, the very image of a treacherous petty minister before the Emperor.
The Jiazhou Palace he mentioned was a temporary retreat the Emperor had ordered built a year ago in the drama to spend winter. Its construction and design were no less grand than the capital palace, with official residences along the way for continuing court duties.
Such a massive project completed in just a year must have exploited countless commoners as laborers.
“Excellent! Instruct the Imperial Astronomy Bureau to select an auspicious date. I will relocate next month,” the Emperor laughed heartily, extremely pleased to hear the palace was near completion. With a wave of his hand, he rewarded the minister a thousand taels of gold.
“This servant thanks Your Majesty for your grace,” Zhang Guolin’s face lit up as he became even more fawning, repeatedly praising the Emperor’s wisdom while kneeling to thank him.
Seeing the Emperor in high spirits, other ministers quickly stepped up to report more good news.
Floods controlled in Youzhou, rebels suppressed in Licheng, war situation reversed at the borders…
Item after item painted a picture of peace and prosperity, of all matters perfectly resolved.
Yet amidst the chorus of congratulations, a young voice suddenly cut in. “This subject petitions to report.”
Following the words, Jing Li, dressed in first-rank official robes, stepped forward. Shaking out his robe, he bowed to the still-smiling Emperor and announced loudly, “This subject Lu Mingyuan petitions to report.”
Jing Li’s expression was solemn, his eyes calm yet hinting at something more, standing out markedly from the flattering smiles around him and instantly drawing attention.
Lao Chen on the throne pretended not to notice, as if Jing Li’s raised voice had startled him from his thoughts. Peering down at him a moment, the Emperor smiled, “Ah, the Minister Lu’s boy. What matter have you to report?”
His tone implied a fondness for the minister’s son, already considering what reward to grant him for bringing more good news.
“This subject reports – the mission to resolve the outlaw infestation at Mount Cangting was successfully completed,” Jing Li bowed lower in reverence. So far, it seemed another joyous report.
Yet before the Emperor could react, he continued, “However, in interrogating the criminals, connections were found between them and the convicted Han traitors executed by Your Majesty. Initial investigation suggests many doubts about the Han treason case. This subject earnestly petitions Your Majesty to permit a thorough reinvestigation to clear the Han’s generations of loyal service.”
In the script, convicting the Han family of treason was a key accomplishment of the Emperor when he was still Crown Prince, which allowed him to make his name and inherit the throne.
Regardless of the truth, just Lu Mingyuan’s request for a “thorough reinvestigation” clearly implied doubts about the Emperor’s initial verdict.
To indulge him would mean the Emperor admitting his greatest achievement was a wrongful conviction of loyalists.
The moment Jing Li spoke these words, all other actors instantly fell silent, faces showing varying degrees of alarm.
The whole court was suddenly tense and on edge beneath the dead silence.
The camera panned to Lao Chen on the throne, capturing the ministers sneaking glances at his reaction. His face instantly darkened with anger and resentment.
“Nonsense!” Zhang Guolin, who played the role of the minister who was the first to please the emperor, was again the first to step out, face furious as he accused, “Your Majesty personally handled the case back then with conclusive evidence. How dare you suggest reopening it based on ‘doubts’? What of imperial authority? Your disrespect for His Majesty’s reputation?”
Turning to the Emperor, he appealed angrily, “Lord Lu is arrogant and brazen, disregarding Your Majesty’s dignity. This subject implores you to punish his grave insolence!”
After him, countless vassals echoed condemnation until the court became Lu Mingyuan’s sentencing hall.
The minister who couldn’t stand it stood up to speak and plead for him, but they were angrily denounced by this group of people as a mob. The two groups instantly quarreled.
The Emperor’s mood improved slightly seeing this. He was about to say something to make Lu Mingyuan admit his mistake and let the matter go. However, he didn’t expect the other party to speak first and said, “Just to maintain a hollow reputation, countless loyalists should suffer injustice?”
“Generations of the Han family’s loyal service, guarding our borders, only to face such an absurd injustice. Does this not chill the hearts of men?”
“This subject implores Your Majesty to order a thorough reinvestigation of the case and give the Han family justice!”
Far from backing down amidst the uproar, his words grew more adamant.
Bowing again after speaking, Jing Li straightened his back stubbornly, refusing to let his petition go unnoticed.
Such subtle movements were powerful in swaying the audience and showcasing acting skill.
Clearly, Jing Li had succeeded.
Not just the actors and spectators, even Lao Chen on the throne secretly admired him.
But his face revealed nothing, his acting zeal even greater.
Eyes darkening, he feigned utter rage as imperial might radiated from him. Spotting the teacup on the table, he glared at Jing Li and hurled it at him in a fury, shouting, “Scoundrel!”
The teacup throw was Lao Chen’s improvisation, so everyone was caught off guard and froze.
Jing Li reacted but simply stood there, letting it graze his temple and shatter loudly on the floor.
The thunderous smash not only startled spectators but also shook the actors.
But years of acting experience allowed them to swiftly resume character, kneeling to implore the Emperor to quell his rage.
Seeing this, the spectators hurriedly hushed, afraid to disrupt filming.
Amidst the chaos, only Jing Li remained standing tall, like a steadfast hero pursuing justice or a headstrong youth unafraid of tigers, declaring his stance while forcing the Emperor’s hand.
But the aged Emperor would not easily overturn his glorious achievement. After berating Jing Li, he only sentenced thirty lashes before storming off.
Leaving behind the silently punished advisor and colleagues with schadenfreude or worry.
“Cut!”
At the scene’s end, the spectators still stared at the actors as if unable to shake the tense, confrontational atmosphere.
Not until the director yelled, “Prepare for the next scene,” did they return to their senses and resume work.
The actors were used to this. Hearing “Cut”, they swiftly stepped out of character. Wrapping up in coats from assistants, they laughed and headed off set.
Jing Li was also helped up from the bench, about to leave, when the middle-aged man who played the role of the treacherous minister came over with Lao Chen, smiling at Jing Li. “Are you alright? Did Lao Chen’s throw just now injure you?”
Lao Chen’s brow furrowed, seeming to want to defend himself but ultimately said nothing. Glancing at Jing Li, he nodded, “I got caught up in the moment. I impulsively added an action without warning you first. My apologies.”
Even apologizing, he didn’t think his actions could have truly harmed Jing Li.
But Jing Li knew he had that confidence.
The moment the teacup flew, he sensed the other measuring the distance carefully before acting. With his martial arts background and acting experience, Lao Chen could pull off such a stunt.
That is, if the receiver completely trusted him and stood still. Any attempt to dodge would be more dangerous.
Hearing the explanation, Jing Li just smiled politely. “When immersed in a role, sometimes we act unpredictably. Sparks of inspiration even add to a scene’s impact. And you did measure the distance, so no need to apologize.”
Though his face was impassive, appreciation flickered in Lao Chen’s eyes.
But his stern image meant few noticed, instead getting the impression of an arrogant old master bullying a newbie.
Many grew dissatisfied, even muttering, “No wonder people call him a notoriously difficult old fossil.” His attitude was really irritating.
Even the friendly Zhang Guolin smiled awkwardly and spoke some perfunctory words before leaving with Lao Chen.
Jing Li was indifferent to all this. He headed out of the set in his coat.
But Wang Lele and Hu Li, who had watched everything, felt uncomfortable, especially the outspoken Hu Li. He couldn’t help grumbling,
“Such an awful attitude! Even if it was an impromptu addition, he nearly hit you! Not even an apology?”
“At least Zhang Guolin is more tactful. Who knows how many people Lao Chen would have offended without him smoothing things over.”
“And Zhang Guolin keeps being his friend after so many years. What does he see in that old guy?”
……
Hu Li went on endlessly. He clearly disliked Lao Chen’s conduct. But Jing Li thought otherwise, smilingly advising her, “You should watch that loose tongue, don’t spout everything.”
After interacting these days, Jing Li understood Hu Li’s frank, straightforward temperament. But he was clever, so he was happy to guide him.
“Also, don’t just look at people by their superficial appearance,” he added meaningfully. “What you see may not be the truth.”
Like Lao Chen – he seemed difficult but was just an awkward old man obsessed with acting.
And like…
Jing Li shook his head, saying no more. He patted his shoulder and headed to the dressing room to prepare for the next scene.
Only Wang Lele, who looked stunned, and Hu Li, who looked confused and seemed to understand, were left standing there.
*
Filming continued smoothly these days. With increased contact, they grew more familiar and relationships warmer.
Except for Lao Chen, of course.
Firstly, few could tolerate his temper. Secondly, he wasn’t eager to chat with others. But he readily imparted acting advice when asked, so opinions of him softened somewhat.
On the other hand, Zhang Guolin, who was close to him, helped him smooth things over with others, was kind and had no airs, and he also had strength and prestige himself. With his own reputation and skill, Zhang was well-liked by the crew and respectfully addressed as Teacher Zhang.
Since Jing Li’s scenes with Lao Chen were most frequent, he also interacted with Zhang Guolin the most. Initially indifferent to Zhang Guolin’s overtures, Jing Li gradually warmed up over time and would actively chat with him occasionally.
After filming one afternoon, the two stood discussing the scene they had just shot of watching the theatre performance in the Royal Garden.
“I’m surprised you’re so knowledgeable about traditional opera,” Zhang Guolin smiled appreciatively at Jing Li. “I’d have thought youngsters like you prefer rock and such.”
“It just so happens that I brought a few classic CDs with me this time. If you are interested, why not have dinner together later to enjoy…”
Before he finished, Jing Li’s phone rang suddenly.
“Excuse me, I need to take this call,” Jing Li smiled apologetically and stepped aside to answer.
It was Gu Tingshen, saying he had a lead on Nie Dong they had been investigating. He invited Jing Li to dinner that night to discuss details.
With news finally after so long, Jing Li readily agreed and even invited Gu Tingshen to his hotel suite for safety.
“I’m so sorry, Teacher Zhang,” returning, Jing Li apologized regretfully. “My friend is in town on business and asked to have dinner. I’ll have to take a raincheck on your invitation.”
“It’s okay, it’s okay. You should take care of your friends first.” Zhang Guolin waved his hand magnanimously and said, “Anyway, we are in the same crew, so there will be plenty of opportunities in the future.”
When Jing Li heard this, he also smiled and echoed a few words, then got up and left with his assistant.
Zhang Guolin watched him leave all the way, always with a gentle smile on his face.
This prompted the assistant to quietly complain, “Er Shao, why do I feel that Zhang Guolin seems to have found out your background and is deliberately trying to please you?”
“And still looking after you reluctantly even this far… brrr…” He exaggeratedly shuddered.
Jing Li smiled and lightly rapped him with the script but said nothing more as they headed to change out of costume and makeup before returning to the room.
*
Not long after entering, Gu Tingshen arrived alone as usual.
Jing Li asked Gu Tingshen to sit down on the sofa and then asked his assistant to prepare two cups of coffee for the two of them.
This time there was no need for Jing Li to speak again. After serving the coffee for the two of them, the assistant wisely said they would go to the hotel restaurant to order food and left the room on his own initiative.
Only Gu Tingshen and Jing Li remained in the room.
Jing Li got right to the point, looking at him and asking directly, “On the call, you said something was off about Nie Dong. What exactly happened?”
But Gu Tingshen didn’t answer immediately.
He stared fixedly at Jing Li for a while until Jing Li confusedly returned his gaze.
Silence filled the air for seconds.
Just as Jing Li was about to combust from the staring and ask what was going on, Gu Tingshen’s brow faintly furrowed.
As if making an important decision, he looked straight into Jing Li’s eyes and said in a low voice, “Look at me carefully. Do I seem different somehow?”
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