Chapter 173: Damn, Dong Xuan and Huang Shengyi Have Also Been Exposed

On March 12, after months of preparation, "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng" officially began filming at Hengdian.

At the launch ceremony, Ren Quan portrayed Hua Manlou, Yan Kuan portrayed Ximen Chuixue, and Huang Haibo portrayed Sikong Zhaixing.

Female actors including An Yixuan as Chen Jingjing, Jiang Xin as He Qingqing, and Yang Xue as Gong Susu also appeared.

Supporting roles included Liang Guanhua as Huo Xiu (Di Renjie), Li Jianyi as Mu Daoren (Cao Gonggong from "The First World"), Ni Dahong as the Old Man (Sima Yi), and Xie Ning as the Honest Monk (Zhu Bajie from "Magic Mobile Phone").

Of course, some were absent, such as Jiao Enjun as Ye Gucheng, Sun Li as Shangguan Feiyan from Hai Run's top female stars, and the "Investiture of the Gods" crew.

Because both "Investiture of the Gods" and "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng" filmed largely at Hengdian and shared the same investor.

So Yan Li orchestrated a major crossover, with actors from both sides appearing in each other's productions.

All three of the Heavenly Demons from "Investiture of the Gods" appeared in "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng."

Fan Bingbing played Xue Bing, Wu Jiani played Beef Soup, Wang Ou played Ouyang Qing, and Qin Lan, who portrayed the Empress, also played Sun Xiuqing.

Jiang Ziya, Nezha, Yang Jian, Wen Taishi, Shang Rong, Huang Feihu, and Shen Gongbao all had supporting or cameo roles in "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng."

Some lead actors from "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng" also appeared in cameo roles in "Investiture of the Gods."

For example, Ren Quan played Boyi Kao, Li Jianyi played King Wen of Zhou, Yan Kuan and Huang Haibo portrayed several minor generals or gods who died immediately, and Jiang Xin, Yang Xue, along with one of the planned Seven Fairies, played the Three Xiao.

Those with minor roles simply made a token appearance; those with more screen time received a friendly rate.

Actors didn't need to reschedule, worked a little harder, and earned two paychecks; Yan Li saved effort and money, everyone was happy, and future promotions could leverage this.

As for Zhang Zhilin, the actor chosen to play Lu Xiaofeng, his schedule required him to join the set two days later.

It was also to avoid the spotlight for now.

Zhang Zhilin ultimately convinced Yan Li to cast him with a low salary, a three-year mainland contract, access to Hong Kong industry resources, and perfect alignment with the character's image and temperament.

Yet this casting choice remained highly controversial.

First, popular young actors like Chen Kun and Huang Haibing were passed over, sparking fan dissatisfaction.

Second, Zhang Zhilin, relatively unknown, was deemed unsuitable by some Gu Long fans—everyone has their own vision of Lu Xiaofeng, and no set of promotional photos could silence them.

The classic portrayals of Wong Mei Ling as Huang Rong, Jiao Enjun as Li Xunhuan, and Hu Jun as Qiao Feng all faced heavy criticism at first.

Even after widespread acclaim upon broadcast, some still refused to accept them.

Whoever played Lu Xiaofeng, as the lead of "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng," would inevitably face scrutiny and debate.

Third, some more radical voices argued that since this was a mainland Wu Xia drama, casting a Hong Kong actor as the lead was like hanging out a sheep's head to sell dog meat.

Yan Li found this view narrow-minded—over ninety percent of the cast and crew of "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng" were mainlanders; how could it not be a mainland Wu Xia drama?

Zhang Dahu Zi even used Lin Zhiying, and the nationality of Xiao Long Nu was American—why don't you criticize him?

Besides, Gu Long himself was from Taiwan Province—if you follow this logic, you shouldn't adapt any of his works at all.

Still, Zhang Zhilin felt immense pressure; to prevent it from affecting his performance, Yan Li delayed his entry by two days.

But Zhang Zhilin could hide—Yan Li could not.

As producer of "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng," Yan Li could not possibly skip the launch ceremony.

And most of the reporters here today were here for him—the controversy around the production revolved around him, and the "Two Bing vs. Yan" drama was a hot topic; they'd been waiting to ambush him for days.

After the launch ceremony ended, Yan Li was surrounded by more reporters than all the actors combined.

Yan Li had prepared himself for this, calmly accepting interviews with microphones bearing the logos of Sohu, Sina, and Baidu.

The Sina reporter asked first: "Are you dating Fan Bingbing?"

Yan Li smiled: "Guess."

Sina reporter: "..."

I'll guess your damn grandfather!

Yan Li teased a bit, then became serious: "I believe my personal life doesn't need to be made public—it's my right."

"Does this answer imply you're dating Fan Bingbing?"

"If all your reporters have this level of textual comprehension, you might as well switch careers."

The Sina reporter said nothing, quietly noting in his notebook.

"Yan Li Seems to Have Turned Cold? Denies Relationship with Fan Bingbing, Angered by Press Questions"

"Yan Li Refuses to Reveal Private Life, Requests Accurate Reporting"

Which version gets published depends on the thickness of the transportation fee...

The Sohu reporter immediately followed up: "Rumors say Li Bingbing is heartbroken, cut off all contact with you and Fan Bingbing."

Yan Li sighed helplessly: "I don't know how the outside world is spreading this—I just spoke on the phone with Bingbing; our relationship is fine, including with Fan Xiao. There are too many misunderstandings."

"Still in Contact with Li Bingbing? Yan Li Shows His Playful Nature with Both Bingbings"

"Is 'Bingbing You Li' Pure Fiction? Yan Li Smiles at How Deeply He's Misunderstood"

"Then how do you explain being photographed shopping and dining together before spending the night at Fan Bingbing's home, and that Fan Bingbing's new car was bought by you? What was your purpose?"

Yan Li avoided answering the first, but simply admitted the latter: "The car was mine—just a small gift."

"Yan Li Speechless on Overnight Stay, Admits Buying a G-Class to Win Fan Bingbing's Favor"

"A Million-Dollar Car Is Just a 'Small Gift'—Discover How Impressive This Self-Made Young Tycoon Is"

"Many online users strongly oppose your behavior of dating two women at once—what do you have to say?"

Yan Li stated solemnly: "I still say the same thing: I am not dating both Bingbing and Fan Xiao simultaneously. Moreover, I don't care about public commentary on my private life—I hope everyone focuses more on my works."

"Yan Li Unfazed by 'Dating Two Women' Controversy, Says He Doesn't Care About Public Discussion of His Private Life"

"Yan Li Clarifies He Is Not Dating Two Women, Urges Public to Focus on His Works"

"..."

"..."

Yan Li expected these reporters wouldn't let go of the "Two Bing vs. Yan" hotspot, but he hadn't expected them to ask so many and such deep questions.

They even asked whether Fan Xiaopang's parents approved of him as a son-in-law!

Heaven and earth know my heart—I've never met Fan Xiaopang's parents; before, Fan Xiaopang had warned his family, so his mother gave only an ambiguous reply.

Seeing the material was sufficient, Yan Li stopped answering any related questions and steered the topic back to "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng."

Compared to the cautious restraint over the Shuang Bing incident, Yan Li became far more assertive when discussing "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng."

When reporters brought up the controversy surrounding Zhang Zhilin, Yan Li firmly supported him.

No matter what he thought inside, since he had chosen Zhang Zhilin, Yan Li had to stand by him to the end.

All the troublemakers were trolls—all water armies arranged by Zhang Dahuzi Zhang!!!

As soon as Zhang Dahuzi Zhang appeared, everyone's attention shifted instantly; the Baidu reporter even asked directly.

"The public is currently comparing your two dramas. Do you think 'The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng' will win?"

"From the genre… from the style… from the cast and investment… the comparisons are multi-faceted: ratings… reputation… audience influence…"

Yan Li rattled off a long explanation, giving the reporters an entire lecture.

When everyone assumed he was suggesting both dramas likely had their own strengths and couldn't be directly compared, Yan Li suddenly shifted tone and declared firmly and confidently.

"Therefore, the winner will definitely be 'The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng.'"

The reporters rejoiced, frantically taking notes, already imagining sensational headlines.

Yan Li smiled faintly—earlier, the Shuang Bing controversy required careful image management, so he couldn't be too negative; but now, concerning "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng" and "The Return of the Condor Heroes," he let the reporters run wild—he wanted the drama.

…

After the interviews ended, Yan Li recorded three more TV program interviews, not finishing until afternoon.

After arranging for the producer to "feed" the reporters, Yan Li still had to call company and crew members to follow up in real time, plus various other tasks; only when everything was nearly done did he realize he hadn't eaten lunch.

"Xiao Ding, is there any food left? Go get me something."

At Yan Li's call, a lean young man entered carrying several boxes.

His name was Ding Feng, newly appointed as Yan Li's assistant, replacing Lin Jiachuan.

Wu Maowen, his childhood friend and driver, Yan Li trusted deeply—he had no problem letting Wu Maowen drive or handle tasks Yan Li didn't want outsiders to know about, but when it came to attentive, observant personal service, he was mediocre.

Ding Feng was the assistant Yan Li carefully selected after much deliberation; originally a salesperson in the marketing department, he was meticulous, thoughtful, perceptive, discreet, and had good character.

He was just a bit young, still a little impulsive and inexperienced—but that made him perfect for training and shaping.

For anyone close to him, whether assistant or secretary, Yan Li preferred newcomers—he could mold them himself, making them more capable and more loyal.

Secretary Hu Ya, driver Wu Maowen, former assistant Lin Jiachuan, current assistant Ding Feng, even the part-time Wang Ou—all were personally selected and promoted by Yan Li.

Future bodyguards and assistant teams would follow the same pattern.

"You were busy earlier, so I didn't disturb you—I kept your food warm."

Ding Feng neatly arranged the food boxes, all still steaming; Yan Li nodded in satisfaction—the meals balanced meat and vegetables, with flavors both salty and mild.

With Lin Jiachuan or Wu Maowen, they might remember to save him food, but whether it was hot or cold depended on luck; the dish selection was even less reliable.

But they bought too much—he can't finish it all, it's wasteful.

Ding Feng explained: "These two boxes are mine; this one is from Producer Wang; this one is from the Production Director; these two are from Teacher Yang Xue, who heard you hadn't eaten and sent them with Jiang Xin; Miss Ou came earlier, found out you hadn't eaten, and had her assistant deliver this one."

"Tsk…"

Thank goodness it's only two productions, and Qin Lan and Dong Xuan aren't here—otherwise we could've held a banquet right now.

Yan Li kept Ding Feng's, Wang Ou's, and Yang Xue's boxes, and had Ding Feng store the rest for dinner.

After eating his fill, Yan Li went to the set of "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng" to observe filming.

The two directors each handled their own unit—Wang Xinmin led his team to shoot exterior scenes, while Ju Jiaoliang filmed key dramatic scenes at the film studio.

Zhang Zhilin hadn't joined the cast yet, so they were currently filming scenes featuring Hua Manlou and Sikong Zhaixing.

Ren Quan and Huang Haibo were among the top young actors of this generation, with plenty of filming experience; as long as they fit the roles, their performances weren't a concern.

Yan Li silently observed for a while, then returned to the hotel to read the script.

He also played a role in "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng"—Gong Jiu from the "Feng Wu Jiutian" segment.

Gong Jiu, the crown prince of the Tai Ping Prince, was a sadomasochist with noble status; Gu Long crafted him with immense prestige.

The original text read: "The venom of a snake, the heart of a fox, the ice of the Northern Sea, the rock of Tianshan, the courage of a lion, the cruelty of a jackal, the endurance of a camel, the wit of a man, plus a ghost from the eighteenth layer of hell."

Such a character couldn't find a suitable actor, nor could anyone easily portray that feeling.

Even the original novel didn't fully convey Gong Jiu's traits—he was essentially just a lunatic, and his ending was rushed; many suspected the book was ghostwritten.

So sometimes it's not without reason that Gu Long's novels can't be filmed exactly as written.

Gong Jiu's character simply couldn't be filmed—he kept stripping naked and asking to be whipped.

He chased Lu Xiaofeng all the way to Ximen Chuixue's location; everyone thought a fight was coming, but he thought Ximen Chuixue was too powerful, so he begged Ximen Chuixue to whip him, which disgusted Ximen Chuixue so badly he fled in terror.

In the end, Gong Jiu's sadomasochistic weakness was exposed, Lu Xiaofeng whipped him, and took the opportunity to kill him.

"…"

How do you even film this plot? How would it ever pass censorship?!

So the plot was drastically changed: Gong Jiu mistakenly believed his father killed his mother, sought revenge for her, and planned to rebel—maximizing the character's prestige.

His weakness shifted from sadomasochism to childhood trauma triggering maternal fixation, and due to his martial arts, he needed physical pain to relieve and vent his emotions, adding depth to his restraint and ruthlessness.

In the end, he was defeated by exploiting his maternal fixation, disrupting his mind, while his martial arts faltered and his combat power plummeted, leaving him surrounded and beaten to death by numerous experts.

Whether it's reasonable or not, it doesn't matter—filming according to the original was impossible, the first draft was terrible, and it took three revisions to finalize.

"Feng Wu Jiutian" was also the final segment of "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng."

This involved rearranging the order of Gu Long's original work, since the novel contained many unresolved threads and hooks; Gu Long could write that way, but a TV series needed a conclusive ending.

So Gong Jiu in "Feng Wu Jiutian" could be called one of the most difficult antagonists in the entire series, relentlessly chasing Lu Xiaofeng across the land.

With sufficient prestige and difficulty, once he was killed, Lu Xiaofeng could conclude his arc—the story's setting had him continuing his carefree wanderings with beautiful women.

Although the TV version of Gong Jiu wasn't as deranged or insane as the original, his complexity was still immense.

Restraint, hatred, wisdom, pain, majesty, softness, nobility, malevolence, distortion, madness…

Yan Li felt that if he could portray half—or even a third—of the character's essence, it would be enough to make many people remember him.

So don't be fooled by the fact that Gong Jiu has far fewer scenes than the King Zhou from the neighboring "Fengshen Bang" crew—his acting difficulty is absolutely not on the same level.

To put it bluntly, King Zhou's heroism and debauchery, Yan Li could just play straight from his own nature in some scenes, but Gong Jiu truly requires careful study.

……

While Yan Li was pondering the script, some initial reports on the launch ceremony of "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng" began to surface.

When the last party in the "Two Bings Compete for Yan" drama finally spoke up, it reignited the cooling heat.

Whether Fan Xiaopang and Yan Li were involved romantically had already been taken as fact by many.

If they shared a night together, they surely weren't studying the script, right?

If he sent her a luxury car, he couldn't just be throwing away money, could he?

Fan Xiaopang also starred in both "Fengshen Bang" and "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng," two dramas invested and produced by Yan Li—any three-year-old would think they were not innocent.

What everyone was more curious about was whether Yan Li was just casually playing around with Fan Xiaopang, or if they were truly dating, since neither had publicly acknowledged anything.

Also, was Yan Li really with Li Bingbing? Had they broken up and Fan Xiaopang seized the opportunity? Or had he stolen her away from her older sister? And did Yan Li still have contact with Li Bingbing?

Li Bingbing had never attacked Yan Li, and Yan Li claimed they had just spoken on the phone—could this guy still be dating both at the same time?

The more people pondered it, the more they realized the "Two Bings Compete for Yan" drama was full of murky details, unclear stances from all three sides, and far more complex and fascinating than they'd imagined.

Some Tianya netizens even cried out that they'd found the same feeling they once had chasing the "Feng Zhi Fei Love Triangle."

In 2002, rumors of flirtation between Xie and Zhang surfaced in February; in April, Xie and Wang publicly broke up; in July, Zhang hinted at having broken up with Xie, soon after which rumors spread of Xie and Wang reconciling, only to break up again.

In 2004, Wang Fei was with Li Yapeng, and Xie and Zhang were rumored to have reunited during the filming of "Wuji."

Then, at the beginning of this year, Zhang publicly announced a foreign boyfriend.

These were just the key milestones—smaller events, rumors, and details were everywhere.

These three people had unknowingly supported countless gossip media and played a major role in the growth of Tianya's entertainment section.

Everyone thought Wang Fei had exited the stage and Xie and Zhang's reconciliation had failed, so there'd be no more gossip serials—but then came "Two Bings Compete for Yan" to pick up the baton.

Perfect! Local drama has more immersion!

As for the feud between "The Legend of Lu Xiaofeng" and "The Return of the Condor Heroes," there was some attention too, but compared to the love triangle, it paled significantly.

Jingcheng, a certain internet cafe

Wei Yang, who had been awake since yesterday afternoon, held a cigarette butt long extinguished between his lips, his bloodshot eyes glowing with excitement as he stared at the computer screen.

"Hahaha, this time, I'm going to become famous!"

The internet cafe attendant passing by shook his head—he couldn't even afford the internet fee, smoked other people's cigarette butts, and still thought he'd become famous?

But Wei Yang didn't care—he didn't contact newspapers or media; instead, he posted his carefully crafted article on Tianya and his own blog.

Working as a junior editor for a newspaper had no future—he wanted to be a celebrity blogger!

These days, the number of people online on Tianya and blogs was limited, and valuable posts and blogs were scarce, so if you had quality, your chances of rising to the top were still high.

Soon after, Wei Yang saw his article appear on the homepage of his blog—

"The First Heartless Loafer in the Entertainment Circle: Before 'Two Bings Compete for Yan,' Two Former North Film Campus Queens—the Goddess Dragon and the Starlet—Were Both Crushed"

(End of Chapter)