Chapter 115: What Must Come Will Come (Thank you to our patron 'Read More Books'—I

That afternoon, filming for the scene was finished!

Liu Tianxian came to Fang Hong and heard him boasting to Zhao Xiaodao: "Our company's mission is simple: if Huayi can't make a star out of Yu Tu, Yu Tu will. If Huayi can't provide the resources, Yu Tu will."

In one sentence: if Huayi can promote someone, Yu Tu will promote them too; if Huayi can't promote someone, Yu Tu will promote them even more—promote first, ask questions later. That's Yu Tu."

He spoke with passion, and Zhao Xiaodao was slightly moved: "Principal, honestly, without any TV drama resources, I can't sign with you."

She knew her own level—she wasn't ready for films yet, only TV dramas could make her famous first.

But Yu Tu doesn't make TV dramas—going there would be meaningless!

"Who says we don't make TV dramas? This fall, we're creating an epic series just for you—the script is already written," Fang Hong said.

"Really?" Zhao Xiaodao's eyes widened.

"Really. I'll have someone send you the script in a few days—you can read it first," Fang Hong said.

"Alright then, Principal, don't lie to me."

"Why would I lie to you?" Fang Hong was puzzled.

"No no, I'm not saying you're lying—I just…" Zhao Xiaodao couldn't finish, covering her mouth as she laughed, embarrassed.

She was just blunt, never realizing she'd struck a nerve!

Liu Tianxian watched from the side, saying nothing.

Both of them said things that cut deep—Zhao Xiaodao didn't trust them; Fang Hong implied she wasn't even worth lying to.

"My promise stands. I deliver what I say," Fang Hong said firmly.

"Alright, I'll give you my answer after I read the script and finish this project. Is that okay?" Zhao Xiaodao looked up at the man with big eyes.

"Fine. I'll wait for you."

They chatted a bit more, then fell silent. Liu Tianxian and Fang Hong walked side by side. Liu Tianxian spoke up: "Will you accompany me to a dinner tonight?"

"What dinner?"

"The creative team of 'Tongque Terrace' invited Fa Ge to play the lead. They've also invited me to attend this dinner," Liu Tianxian said.

"You're taking this film?" Fang Hong frowned.

"Not yet. I'm going to discuss it."

Liu Tianxian didn't understand his expression: "What do you mean? You seem against me taking it."

"I'll be honest—I really think you shouldn't take this movie," Fang Hong said seriously.

"Why? It's a big cross-strait production with Fa Ge—why shouldn't I take it?" Liu Tianxian was confused.

For her, this was a major opportunity—her last big project like this had been years ago with 'The Forbidden Kingdom.' Such chances were rare.

But she didn't know that although she was the female lead, she had almost no screen time—and the film would flop spectacularly, be utterly garbage, and completely destroy Fa Ge's image—he simply couldn't carry box office.

"Alright then, I'll go with you."

Fang Hong couldn't say how bad the film was—it hadn't been made yet.

He couldn't explain what would happen in his past life—because it hadn't happened yet.

Besides, Liu Tianxian inviting him clearly meant she was letting him into her circle.

That was rare—last time with 'The Legend of Hongmen,' she'd accepted the role outright without even asking him.

"If you have something to say, we don't need to hide it," Liu Tianxian said, sensing his reluctance.

"Did they tell you if this film has intimate scenes?" Fang Hong asked.

"Not yet, but I can use stand-ins or shooting tricks," Liu Tianxian knew this mattered to him.

"Do you really like doing these kinds of roles?"

"It's not that I like them—it's that when such opportunities come, they're chances for me. You know my situation in this industry."

"You also know my level—if I want recognition and growth, I have to try different roles. If I never try new kinds of characters, how will I improve?"

Liu Tianxian explained to him.

Fang Hong sighed inwardly. It was coming anyway—he strongly opposed Liu Tianxian smashing her filter, shedding her persona.

That was unfair to him, and to her fans!

Whatever. We'll see when we get there.

That evening, the crew finished early. Fang Hong and Liu Tianxian arrived at a private room in a hotel in Central.

Inside were many people—some she recognized, some she didn't. The recognized ones were Fa Ge, Su Youpeng, Yi Nengjing—celebrities constantly on screen.

The unfamiliar ones were investors like Wang Zhangtian, the Producer, and Director Zhao Linshan.

There were also international guests and others accompanying them—all strangers she didn't know.

This project was undeniably massive—not only was the behind-the-scenes team top-tier, but from what he'd seen in his past life, the costumes, makeup, and sets were clearly masterwork.

It gathered stars from across the straits and even featured big-name actors.

As for why such a big project went to a rookie director, perhaps he had some murky connection with Changchun Film Studio.

The film had funding from Guang County, Huaxia, Changchun Film Studio, and others—distribution was guaranteed.

As for box office? The audience votes with their feet—who cares how big the cast is or how powerful the backers are?

Their entrance caused a moment of silence in the room.

Then everyone glanced at Fang Hong and turned to greet Liu Tianxian, introducing themselves.

Liu Tianxian was used to such scenes and moved with ease.

Fang Hong, meanwhile, was merely curious—he wasn't known as Principal, and no one paid him any attention. "Principal" was a name only heard, rarely seen.

Huayi wouldn't waste time promoting him, going around saying, "This is the Principal, here's what he looks like!"

But Wang Zhangtian recognized him—he'd inquired before.

He gave Liu Tianxian only a faint nod, then walked straight to Fang Hong.

"I've always wanted to meet you, but never had the chance—this is perfect," Wang Zhangtian clapped Fang Hong on the shoulder.

【61】 The man wore glasses, looked refined, but his voice carried weight.

"Mr. Wang, you're too kind—you invited me, and even if I had to walk through fire and boiling water, I'd come! But today, it's not you who invited me; I'm just tagging along with Tianxian for a meal. I hope you don't mind an outsider joining." Fang Hong smiled.

It wasn't directed at you—it was directed at Liu Tianxian.

"Ah, it's just dinner—add another chair."

Wang Zhangtian showed great generosity; his success was no accident.

Hearing Fang Hong mention Liu Tianxian, he finally took a serious look at her—he'd paid no attention before.

Liu Tianxian could feel it too: without realizing it, Fang Hong was no longer on the same level as her. But she didn't care— the higher his achievements, the more pleased she was.

Ever since the Standalone Battle, they hadn't been on the same level. Anyone bold enough to fight would naturally earn higher regard.

Even if poor, one is still respected! And Wang Zhangtian had seen the success of *To Our Youth*—this film had been in theaters for over half a month.

Total box office exceeded 386 million—another guaranteed hit.

For Wang Zhangtian, actors like Liu Tianxian were common, but partners like Fang Hong were rare.

Who else had projects, ideas, a team, and production capability? Fang Hong was a perfect partner.

Huayi? Guang County doesn't give a damn about them!

The two spoke in private; others at the table watched, puzzled why Wang Zhangtian treated this young man so differently.

Remember, even among other collaborators, Wang Zhangtian didn't hold Fa Ge in high regard.

This made them whisper among themselves: Who is this man? Director Zhao Linshan was also curious: "Yifei, who is this person you brought? I don't remember him."

Others gathered around, all staring at Liu Tianxian. "The Principal of Yutu? You don't recognize him?" Liu Tianxian said calmly, as if it were obvious.

"Principal?!"

Everyone exchanged glances, all faces filled with surprise.

When they looked again at Fang Hong, their eyes changed—now tinged with curiosity and awe. No one had expected this was the man who dared to clash with Huayi.

That incident made huge waves—hard to miss!

The room buzzed with murmurs now, discussing the Principal's past exploits.

The grand round table was laden with fine wine and delicacies. After greetings, everyone sat down. Fang Hong sat beside Liu Tianxian; on her other side was Fa Ge.

It was natural for the nominal male and female leads to sit together. Wang Zhangtian had Su Youpeng find another seat—next to Fang Hong.

Su Youpeng was deeply annoyed, but the man was the financier—he had to stay silent. Others chatted among themselves; Liu Tianxian got to know the Producer, the Executive Producer, and the Director, discussing the film's details.

Wang Zhangtian didn't join in—he spoke with Fang Hong: "What brings you to Hong Kong?"

"Filming. A low-budget youth film."

Fang Hong actually had nothing to say to this man.

He didn't need Guang County's investment—what was there to talk about?

Wang Zhangtian was numb again—another youth film? Make one, profit one. This one will probably make money too. Youth films are hot right now.

His own project, *Tongque Tai*, was garbage.

He'd read the script—he could tell good from bad—but the stars were big, the makeup was strong, so he invested anyway.

Seeing Fang Hong and Wang Zhangtian temporarily paused, Liu Tianxian leaned over, whispering softly to Fang Hong to introduce the film's key crew.

"Cinematographer Zhao Xiaoding—Lao Mouzi's go-to cinematographer; Costume Designer Xi Zhongwen—Hong Kong's top costume designer."

"Art Director Zhongtian Yangping—called the God of Film Art in Japan; actor Yumu Hong is their number-one heartthrob. Fa Ge and Ni Dahong are both veteran actors. You see—the cast is powerful."

"Yeah, definitely impressive—more professional than my team." Fang Hong knew she wanted to join this film, which was why she explained so much. But so what? A bad film was still a bad film.

"So this matters a lot to me—it's an opportunity. You know how rarely such a big project lands on me," Liu Tianxian said gently.

Fang Hong nodded, saying nothing.

"Tianxian, our budget is 130 million. You, Fa Ge, and this Japanese actor will all have scenes together," said Director Zhao Linshan to Liu Tianxian.

"Will this film include intimate scenes or kissing scenes?" Liu Tianxian asked frankly.

She wanted to make it clear to Fang Hong—so he wouldn't think she'd be filming kissing or intimate scenes.

"Yes, there will be nude scenes too. But don't worry—we'll use stand-ins. You just need to show your shoulder or back. Kissing scenes are perfectly normal," Zhao Linshan said indifferently.

Liu Tianxian hesitated, glancing at Fang Hong beside her, then said: "Could we use stand-ins for everything?"

"Nowadays, people from the mainland pick and choose whether to do intimate scenes? How unprofessional," Fa Ge chimed in.

"No, it's just… I'm not comfortable," Liu Tianxian replied, her tone slightly urgent.

Being questioned by someone like Fa Ge was a blow—after all, he held absolute prestige in this circle.

(End of Chapter)