Chapter 115: Look, Brother! This Is the Empire I Have Conquered for You! (Grand Chapter)

The numerous cast and crew members present were all well-acquainted with the script. Having witnessed the entire storyline and the past life of Xin Qiji—the character portrayed by Su Mu—every step of the way, they were deeply moved. Now, as they watched a fully made-up Su Mu perform the sword dance once more, the emotions surrounding the character of Xin Qiji suddenly erupted within them. It was Su Mu’s final gaze, in particular, that was so captivating, stirring profound feelings in the hearts of many.

Yuan Shuang and the other actresses were the first to shed tears. Even Chen Anzhi, Yuan Zheng, and the others standing before the monitors found their eyes turning red. For a moment, they forgot to call "cut," not knowing how to even begin praising the performance. But one thing was certain: this was the Xin Qiji he had been searching for!

Then, it was unclear who started it, but a wave of applause and exclamations broke out.

"Congratulations to Su Mu on wrapping up!"
"My god, that was incredible!"
"This is the real Xin Qiji! I doubt anyone will be able to surpass this in the future!"
"I'm not done watching yet; I have to watch it a few more times when it airs."

The crowd around them spoke with excitement. Su Mu, meanwhile, slowly stepped out of character.

[Emotional Proficiency +1]
[Expression +...]
[Sword Technique +...]

Ignoring the proficiency notifications flashing in his mind, Su Mu turned to look at Chen Anzhi. By now, Chen Anzhi had already stood up, joining the others in applause. Just as he had told Yuan Zheng earlier, if Su Mu could perform this final scene in a way that resonated with everyone present, it would mark the success of his performance.

Su Mu had done it.

Chen Anzhi walked over, his eyes filled with relief and admiration. "Su Mu, that was a wonderful performance! I am very satisfied. Congratulations on wrapping up! I am truly looking forward to seeing the public's reaction to this film and to you once Xin Qiji airs."

Behind him, Director Yuan Zheng gave a thumbs up, offering the highest level of recognition. "Exactly. I’m looking forward to it as well. You should know, the Ministry of Culture issued these guidelines not just to promote national integrity, but also to influence the younger generation. I have a strong premonition that our version of Xin Qiji might truly make an impact on the youth—it might even stand a chance against those foreign films released during the same period."

Chen Anzhi nodded with a smile, neither confirming nor denying. Everyone present heard their words, but no one looked surprised. They knew this was what Su Mu deserved and how it should be. After all, they were the only ones who had witnessed Su Mu’s strength over the past two months. From knowing nothing to mastering horse riding, sword fighting, and martial arts sequences—the sheer, fanatical training he endured was something only they truly understood. If a madman like him couldn't succeed, there would be no justice in the world.

Accepting a bouquet of flowers, Su Mu smiled at Chen Anzhi and Yuan Zheng. "Thank you, Director Chen, and thank you, Director Yuan. I’ve learned so much during this time. I really hope I’ll have the chance to work with both of you again in the future."

Chen Anzhi patted Su Mu on the shoulder. "Don't worry, there will definitely be opportunities. I just hope you won't look down on my small production crew by then."

Yuan Zheng added, "Su Mu, you are a great talent. I know you’re already very popular, but an actor’s height goes far beyond the present. Don't slack off; keep moving toward higher peaks to see the scenery."

Su Mu nodded. "I understand."

Chen Anzhi said, "Alright, this scene was a single take, and you’ve wrapped up. Why don’t you say a few words to the crew?"

Su Mu’s eyes lit up. He wasn't going to turn down a free opportunity to speak. He turned to face the crew behind him. "Thank you all for your help and care over these past two months. Since we are wrapping up today, I’d like to say a few words..."

[Speech Proficiency +1]
[Skill Point +0.01]
...

Outside the set, Sun Liaojun, Xiao Li, and Xiao Zhang had already returned to their car. The three sat in silence for a few minutes.

Suddenly, Xiao Li groaned, "Oh no! I was so busy watching the performance that I didn't take a single photo..."

Xiao Zhang gasped, "Are you serious? What are we going to do for our fifth episode?"

Just as the two were panicking, Sun Liaojun suddenly smiled, showing no signs of annoyance. The two were stunned.

Xiao Li asked, "Boss, what’s wrong with you?"
Xiao Zhang added, "Boss, if you’re hurting inside, just cry it out."

Sun Liaojun rolled his eyes at them and said, "Forget it. Even if you had taken photos, this final scene is something that shouldn't be leaked. It shouldn't be spoiled; it’s meant for everyone to experience for themselves after it airs."

For some reason, he had an inexplicable feeling that exposing Su Mu's performance early would be a desecration of something sacred. It was a damn strange feeling.

Xiao Li was shocked. "Boss... this doesn't sound like you at all!"
Xiao Zhang agreed, "Yeah, that’s not like you. Usually, if you have a scoop, you'd want to expose everything, even how many days someone hasn't washed their underwear!"

Sun Liaojun’s mouth twitched, and he finally snapped. "Get lost! Am I really that kind of person? When have I ever exposed someone’s underwear?"

Xiao Li reminded him, "A few years ago, during that celebrity balcony incident, didn't you take a close-up of their underwear?"
Xiao Zhang added, "Yeah, I remember! It was red, a big CK brand!"

Sun Liaojun suddenly felt the urge to commit a murder in the dark of the night. They were really touching a nerve. Actually, his intention back then wasn't to photograph the underwear; he wanted to prove that the celebrity’s lifestyle was decadent. As it happened, the moment he focused his lens, the person gave him a live show. What were you supposed to do in that situation? Naturally, you observe the details.

Sun Liaojun barked, "Shut up, both of you! Are we discussing this, or are we discussing the fifth episode?"

Xiao Li replied, "Right, right. What are we going to do for the next episode, Boss?"
Xiao Zhang added, "We can't just release nothing; the fans will roast us alive. If they unfollow us, we'll be back to square one."

Sun Liaojun didn't speak. He took out half a pack of Red Double Happiness cigarettes from his pocket and lit one. Xiao Li hurriedly lit it for him. Sun Liaojun took a satisfied puff, and the car filled with smoke. A mysterious air slowly emerged.

Sun Liaojun said, "Don't worry about the fifth episode. We need to organize and plan first."
"???"
"???"
The two looked confused.

Sun Liaojun chuckled, "That's why you're still young. We’ve been so popular lately—do you think our peers are just going to watch? Do you think they don't know to follow Su Mu and pick up the easy money? If I’m not mistaken, many paparazzi outlets, including our competitors, are already preparing."

Xiao Li asked, "Wait, that means we won't have an exclusive anymore?"
Xiao Zhang added, "Someone’s coming to steal our thunder?"

Sun Liaojun nodded. "It’s inevitable. So, from now on, if we want to do this, we have to provide the most detailed and unique first-hand information on Su Mu! Otherwise, if they have what we have, it will lose all value over time. This requires long-term planning. Besides, Su Mu has wrapped up and will be leaving soon, so staying here is pointless. Let’s head back, regroup, and start fresh!"

Xiao Li asked, "Start fresh?"
Xiao Zhang asked, "Where to, Boss?"

Sun Liaojun replied, "Following Su Mu’s route, of course! His studio is in Galaxy City, so we’re going to Galaxy City! Also, be prepared—the real challenge is coming. The competition among media outlets for first-hand scoops is fierce. We won't have it as easy as we did before."

Xiao Li said, "Boss, we understand everything you said, and we agree, but I can't agree with that last part."
Xiao Zhang added, "Yeah, we’ve been living on instant noodles; you can hardly call that an 'easy life.' At least let us have some KFC!"

Sun Liaojun: "..."
...
...

The next day, Su Mu finally woke up naturally. This was his usual state; as long as he wasn't filming, he was a normal person. Last night, they held a farewell ceremony with the crew. Chen Anzhi had specially prepared a bonfire, and the actors drank and ate lamb, having their final goodbye. As for the follow-up work, Qian Jida would handle it. Once the film was released, his payment would come through, so he didn't need to worry.

He got up and freshened up. Before long, Qian Jida and Xiao Juzi walked in with breakfast. Su Mu looked around and asked, "Where’s Master Zhu?"

Xiao Juzi replied, "He went to return the car to the crew."

Upon hearing this, Su Mu’s expression froze, and he felt a twinge of worry for two seconds. To be honest, the car Chen Anzhi had lent them was in pretty rough shape. Ever since Master Zhu had mentioned that the car didn't belong to him, he had completely let loose, driving as if the car were flying every single day.

Qian Jida asked, "Su Mu, what are you thinking about?"
Su Mu replied, "Oh, nothing."
Qian Jida said, "We could have left today, but you insisted on waiting one more day. Is there anything else you haven't handled?"

Su Mu nodded. "Yes, something quite important. I promised someone, after all."
Qian Jida and Xiao Juzi looked puzzled. "Promised who?" "How come we don't know?"
...

At the horse farm, Su Mu stroked Little Lightning, looking reluctant to part. "Brother, thanks to you for all this time. Since you’ve been so reliable, I must keep my promise to you. Look, this is the 'kingdom' I’ve bought for you!"

Little Lightning: !!!
Qian Jida: !!!
Xiao Juzi: ???
Staff member: ...

At that moment, a row of beautiful young mares stood in the stable. Among them were the mare from the next stall and the little white horse he had promised earlier. Su Mu handed a check to the staff member.

"Little Lightning is my brother from now on. Get him a new companion every day. Whichever one he gets along with well, let him spend more time with her."

Staff member: "Su... Mr. Su, Little Lightning... he’s not a stallion."
Su Mu: "Does that matter? My brother likes it, so I’ll arrange it! Do you have a problem with that? If so, call your boss and ask how much the farm costs. I’ll buy the whole place for my brother to play in!"

Little Lightning: !!!
Staff member cried, "Boss Su, I understand what you mean. Don't worry, I’ll get it done."

Su Mu smiled with satisfaction and turned to pat Little Lightning. "Brother, life is long and the world is wide. Play while you’re young, or else when you’re old and frail, you’ll have a kingdom but no strength left to enjoy it. Good luck!"

Little Lightning: ???
Qian Jida: ...
Xiao Juzi: (O_O)!
Staff member: "6."
...

After bidding farewell to Little Lightning, Su Mu, Qian Jida, and Xiao Juzi left the farm. They happened to see Master Zhu walking over after returning the car. He seemed fine, but it was a bit strange that he was holding a bloody old hen in his hands.

Su Mu asked, "Master Zhu, did you return the car?"
Master Zhu replied, "Yes."
Su Mu asked, "What’s with this old hen? Did the crew give it to you?"
Master Zhu shook his head. "No, I was driving too fast on the way here and hit it on the road."

Su Mu: "..."
Was that a question of speed? It was a question of the route! What kind of road do you drive on where you hit an old hen?

Xiao Juzi looked at the chicken with a pained expression. "Oh, it’s bleeding; it must hurt so much. Poor little chicken sister. Master Zhu, should we go back and bandage her up?"

Su Mu: "..."
Qian Jida: "..."
Master Zhu looked at the chicken and nodded. "Okay."
...

In the evening, back at the hotel, Master Zhu brought a pot of chicken soup into the room. The steaming, rich broth gave off an incredibly delicious aroma. Su Mu gave a thumbs up. "Master Zhu, this is a great soup!"

Qian Jida said, "I didn't expect you to have this skill! Why didn't you say so earlier? If you had offered to drive and cook, I would have given you double the pay."

Master Zhu smiled shyly and said nothing. He lifted the lid, and Su Mu was stunned. The broth was a golden yellow, the meat was falling off the bone, and it looked tender and white.

Su Mu remarked, "As expected of a Gubei chicken; the natural quality is just different."
Qian Jida added, "This is a free-range chicken; it’s the best."

The door opened, and Xiao Juzi walked in happily. "Time to eat, haha! Wow, chicken soup! By the way, Master Zhu, did you bandage the chicken sister’s wounds?"

Su Mu: !!!
Qian Jida: ...
Master Zhu: "Let's eat first."
...

The chicken soup was delicious. That night, everyone returned to their rooms, ready to head back to Galaxy City the next day, so they all started packing.

[Male Artist Proficiency Board]
Strength: 25.1
Speed: 25.1
Vocal Range: 5.1
Cardiopulmonary: 25.1
Flexibility: 25.01
Stamina: 36.1
Mental Calculation: 30.5
Skill Points: 20.54

[Speech Proficiency LV3: 3512/5000]
[Emotion...]
[...]

Su Mu lay in bed, looking at his stats. During this period, he had earned quite a few skill points. However, he had spent 20 points midway to increase his cardiopulmonary attribute for training, bringing it up to 25.1. After all, no matter how much "fancy" martial arts he performed, it was still physical exercise. His muscle strength and stamina were sufficient, but without the cardiopulmonary capacity to match, he would hit a wall.

Currently, his horse riding, sword techniques, and martial arts sequences had all reached LV4. For most roles, this level was enough. Of course, he couldn't rule out the possibility that some films might require even more, which might unlock more precise proficiency categories—like the *Drunken Fist* style films he had seen in his past life. He felt that if he were to film something like that now, he would truly need to master the real martial art of Drunken Fist.

Su Mu: "Draw five blind boxes."
[Notification: Current skill points 20.54, cost 5.0]
[Opening blind boxes...]
[Work *3]
[Item *1]
[Random Attribute +5.0]

PS: Thank you all for your support! Er Miao thanks you!