Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei Linxuan surprises Lu Heng on set, flirting and teasing him.
• They discuss Wei Linxuan's sudden visit and his plans for the night.
• The crew waits for Chen Mengyi to finish changing, leading to humorous banter about Zhao Miao's feelings for her.
• Wei Linxuan asks about the third male lead's absence.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng: Shows exasperation and amusement with Wei Linxuan's behavior, but also affection and patience.
• Wei Linxuan: Demonstrates his playful and flirtatious side, as well as his knowledge of the production's details.
• Zhao Miao: Reveals his feelings for Chen Mengyi through his anxious defense of her.
• Chen Mengyi: Shows a friendly and humorous demeanor, calling Zhao Miao 'cute.'

Significant Themes

• Friendship and camaraderie among the crew.
• Romantic tension between Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi.
• Wei Linxuan's expertise and dedication as an agent.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan: Their playful banter and flirtatious interactions highlight their close relationship.
• Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi: Their dynamic showcases a potential romantic connection, with Zhao Miao's feelings becoming more apparent.
• The entire crew: The group dynamic is filled with humor, teasing, and mutual understanding.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Director Wu praises Wei Linxuan's management skills, highlighting his ability to make stars famous, particularly Lu Heng.
• Heng Xuan Studio's announcement to sign newcomers causes a stir in the industry.
• Zhao Er Miao, feeling unappreciated, threatens to make Lu Heng's life harder on set.
• Wei Linxuan modestly accepts praise and expresses trust in Director Wu's guidance.
• Zhao Er Miao offers to protect Lu Heng on set.
• Director Wu thanks Lu Heng for his input on revising fight scenes, improving the production.
• Wei Linxuan expresses confidence in Director Wu's leadership.
• Zhao Er Miao shares a clip of Lu Heng's entrance, praising his martial arts and flute skills.

Character Developments

• Wei Linxuan is humble yet confident in his abilities as a manager.
• Zhao Er Miao is insecure and feels undervalued, leading to threats and humor.
• Lu Heng is portrayed as skilled, responsible, and professional.
• Director Wu is experienced, fair, and considerate, aiming to maintain harmony on set.

Significant Themes

• The power dynamics and politics within the entertainment industry.
• The importance of professionalism and mutual respect among colleagues.
• The impact of one's actions and words on others' perceptions and feelings.

Character Interactions

• Wei Linxuan and Director Wu share a respectful and collaborative relationship.
• Zhao Er Miao and Wei Linxuan have a playful, bantering dynamic.
• Lu Heng is protective of Zhao Er Miao despite his antics.
• The crew members collectively appreciate Lu Heng's contributions to the production.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The crew discusses potential nicknames for Lu Heng's character, Qilian Heng, due to his flute-playing scene.
• Wei Linxuan suggests changing Qilian Heng's flute to a bamboo flute to avoid inappropriate nicknames.
• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan return to the hotel together after filming, and Wei Linxuan teases Lu Heng about playing the flute.
• Wei Linxuan offers to give Lu Heng a massage to relieve his fatigue from filming.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng is shown to be easily embarrassed and irritated by Wei Linxuan's teasing.
• Wei Linxuan is playful and attentive, showing concern for Lu Heng's well-being and offering to help him relax.

Significant Themes

• The theme of playful banter and teasing between Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan is prevalent in this chapter.
• The topic of nicknames and reputation is explored, with Lu Heng being concerned about how his character might be perceived.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan's relationship continues to grow more intimate, with Wei Linxuan showing affection and concern for Lu Heng.
• The crew members interact playfully, with everyone joining in on the teasing of Lu Heng.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tao Xiaotao, Lu Heng's assistant for five years, receives a text from Wei Linxuan asking for breakfast recommendations for Lu Heng.
• Wei Linxuan decides to buy breakfast himself and asks Tao Xiaotao for a map of local food stalls.
• Wei Linxuan encounters Lin Chaoyang in the elevator while going to buy breakfast.

Character Developments

• Tao Xiaotao shows her thoroughness and dedication in her job, earning praise and a bonus from Wei Linxuan.
• Wei Linxuan demonstrates his thoughtfulness and care for Lu Heng by personally buying him breakfast.
• Lin Chaoyang, after a sleepless night due to Wu Zhongyuan's advice, feels awkward and uncomfortable around Wei Linxuan.

Significant Themes

• Care and Thoughtfulness: Wei Linxuan's actions highlight his care for Lu Heng, while Tao Xiaotao's attention to detail shows her dedication to her job.
• Awkwardness and Uncomfortableness: Lin Chaoyang's encounter with Wei Linxuan early in the morning creates an awkward atmosphere, reflecting his discomfort with the situation.

Character Interactions

• Wei Linxuan and Tao Xiaotao: They interact warmly, with Wei Linxuan appreciating Tao Xiaotao's efforts and rewarding her with a bonus.
• Wei Linxuan and Lin Chaoyang: Their interaction is polite yet distant, with Lin Chaoyang feeling uncomfortable and intimidated by Wei Linxuan's presence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Chaoyang and Wei Linxuan meet in the elevator. Wei Linxuan reveals he visits all of Lu Heng's sets and even stays with the production, hinting at his closeness with Lu Heng.
• Wei Linxuan offers to buy breakfast for the crew, including Lin Chaoyang, but Lin declines.
• They encounter Wu Zhongyuan and others in the lobby. Wei Linxuan insists on buying breakfast for the crew despite their protests.
• Wei Linxuan returns with breakfast, accompanied by the breakfast shop staff.

Character Developments

• Lin Chaoyang feels regretful for being too ingratiating with Wei Linxuan, but later justifies it as a friendly joke.
• Wei Linxuan shows his thoughtfulness and consideration towards the crew, particularly Lu Heng, by buying breakfast for them.
• Wu Zhongyuan appreciates Wei Linxuan's manners and upbringing, seeing him as a well-mannered young nobleman.

Significant Themes

• Respect for Elders and Care for the Young (Respect and Care): Wei Linxuan demonstrates this by buying breakfast for the entire crew, showing consideration for their hard work.
• Power Dynamics and Status: Lin Chaoyang feels inferior to Wei Linxuan due to his status and wealth, leading to Lin's regret over his ingratiating behavior.

Character Interactions

• Lin Chaoyang and Wei Linxuan: Lin feels inferior to Wei Linxuan, while Wei Linxuan is polite and respectful towards Lin, despite his subtle hints about his closeness with Lu Heng.
• Wei Linxuan and the Crew: Wei Linxuan shows thoughtfulness and consideration towards the crew by buying breakfast for them, winning their appreciation.
• Wu Zhongyuan and Lin Chaoyang: Wu Zhongyuan praises Wei Linxuan in front of Lin Chaoyang, making Lin feel embarrassed and dispirited.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei Linxuan buys breakfast for the crew to improve Lu Heng's image.
• Tao Xiaotao, Lu Heng's assistant, helps distribute the breakfast and shares that some crew members don't have time for breakfast due to early shifts.
• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan share a suggestive moment over breakfast in Lu Heng's room.
• On set, the crew thanks Lu Heng for the breakfast, promising better support in return.
• Lin Chaoyang, who had been distant from Lu Heng, thanks him for the breakfast and acknowledges Wei Linxuan's suggestion, hinting at a thaw in their relationship.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng: Gains popularity among the crew after providing breakfast, further solidifying his position as the lead actor.
• Wei Linxuan: Demonstrates his influence and resourcefulness by improving Lu Heng's image through a simple gesture.
• Lin Chaoyang: Shows signs of warming up to Lu Heng, possibly due to Wei Linxuan's intervention or Lu Heng's growing popularity.

Significant Themes

• The power of small gestures in improving relationships and image.
• The importance of understanding and catering to others' needs (e.g., providing breakfast for early-shift crew members).

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan: Share a playful moment over breakfast, showcasing their growing intimacy.
• Lu Heng and Lin Chaoyang: Exchange cordial words, hinting at a potential improvement in their relationship.
• Zhao Er Miao and Chen Mengyi: Exchange glances, hinting at their awareness of the tension between Lu Heng and Lin Chaoyang, and their amusement at Wei Linxuan's influence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Er Miao expresses disbelief at Lu Heng's change in attitude towards Wei Linxuan.
• Lu Heng and Zhao Er Miao have a playful interaction, with Lu Heng patting Zhao Er Miao's head and Zhao Er Miao slapping his hand away.
• Wei Linxuan closes the dressing room door on Zhao Er Miao, nearly hitting him, leading to a comedic argument between them.
• The crew gathers to watch the argument, and Director Wu Zhongyuan instructs filming of the scene.
• Zhao Er Miao threatens to steal Wei Linxuan's crops in QQ Farm, and Wei Linxuan reveals that Zhao Er Miao had indeed stolen his crops the previous night.
• Tao Xiaotao delivers takeout soup to the dressing room, ordered by Zhao Er Miao for Wei Linxuan to improve his complexion and replenish his qi and blood.

Character Developments

• Zhao Er Miao shows growth by complaining quietly in front of many people, though he remains blunt.
• Wei Linxuan displays a childish side, matching Zhao Er Miao's immaturity.
• Lu Heng remains calm and composed amidst the chaos.

Significant Themes

• Friendship and camaraderie among the main characters.
• The contrast between public and private personas, especially in the entertainment industry.
• The humor and absurdity of behind-the-scenes interactions in film production.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Zhao Er Miao's playful father-son dynamic.
• The comedic rivalry and banter between Zhao Er Miao and Wei Linxuan.
• The crew's amusement and involvement in the argument between Zhao Er Miao and Wei Linxuan.

Chapter Summary: “Golden Crow Award”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wei Linxuan brings angelica, red date, and pork rib soup to the dressing room for Lu Heng’s styling team, recognizing their hard work. Tao Xiaotao distributes it among the staff.
• Wei jokingly asks Tao to order “pig nose soup” for Zhao Miao after he nearly injures his nose, teasing him with pig-brain soup when she points out that pig nose soup does not exist.
• The 2005 Golden Crow Award ceremony is scheduled for April 12 in Hong Kong. Lu Heng and Zhao Miao are invited as presenters, while Chen Mengyi and Wei Linxuan accompany them as their red-carpet partners.
• During the flight, Lu Heng observes that Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi appear increasingly close and may soon publicly reveal their relationship.
• Lu Heng and Wei engage in playful, flirtatious behavior under the blanket on the plane, though Lu ultimately stops Wei from becoming too suggestive in public. They eventually share earphones and fall asleep.
• After landing, Zhao Miao excitedly celebrates arriving on time, only to be teased about his messy hair. Lu Heng and Wei jokingly refuse assistance with their luggage and act exaggeratedly confident while leaving the airport.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng is shown as genuinely happy about Zhao Miao’s romantic progress. He privately compares Zhao’s current cheerful, lovestruck state with the lonely and cynical future he remembers from his previous life, emphasizing how meaningful Zhao’s current happiness is to him.
• Wei Linxuan has become noticeably more relaxed, playful, and affectionate. His improved mood contrasts with his formerly intimidating, expressionless demeanor, especially before the New Year.
• Zhao Miao is openly excited and distracted by his relationship with Chen Mengyi. His animated behavior and absent-mindedness make him seem even more childish and lovestruck.
• Chen Mengyi appears close enough to Zhao Miao that the others suspect they are preparing to make their relationship public.
• Tao Xiaotao and the staff are treated with consideration, reinforcing their importance as hardworking members of Lu Heng and Wei’s teams.

Significant Themes

• Romantic happiness and second chances: Lu Heng is grateful that Zhao Miao has found love and avoided the unhappy future Lu Heng remembers.
• Playfulness in intimacy: Wei and Lu’s teasing demonstrates how comfortable and affectionate they have become with each other.
• Public image versus private behavior: Both men must maintain polished appearances for fans and the media, while privately behaving much more casually and flirtatiously.
• Care and appreciation: Wei’s soup gesture shows concern for the staff, while the group’s teasing reveals familiarity and affection.
• Changing personalities through love: Zhao Miao’s romance and Wei’s relationship with Lu Heng both make them more energetic, open, and emotionally expressive.

Character Interactions

• Wei warmly includes the dressing-room staff in the soup gift, while teasing Zhao Miao through Tao Xiaotao.
• Lu Heng and Wei banter about Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi, then flirt discreetly during the flight.
• Wei jokes about Zhao Miao’s disheveled hair after the flight, and Sun Shuliang takes him away to fix it.
• Lu Heng and Wei act mischievously together at the airport, while Tao Xiaotao observes how much Wei’s personality has softened.

Chapter 449 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Heng, Wei Linxuan, Zhao Miao, Chen Mengyi, and their entourage arrive at Hong Kong Airport to attend the Golden Crow Award ceremony.
• They are met by a massive crowd of fans and reporters, who aggressively question them about the awards, their relationships, and the entertainment industry.
• Lu Heng explains that this is his first time attending the Golden Crow Awards as a presenter. He reveals that he will present Best Supporting Actor, an award he once won for Operation A. Jury chairman Mai Chengliang reportedly chose him because of this connection.
• Reporters ask Lu Heng about Yue Feng, who has been labeled “Little Lu Heng.” Lu Heng diplomatically states that every actor should establish an identity through personal ability rather than imitation.
• Wei Linxuan reinforces this point, saying that Lu Heng is unique but Yue Feng should also be allowed to become his own person.
• The media then questions Wei Linxuan about Miracle Doctor, starring Yue Feng, which will air before Heng Xuan Studio’s similarly themed drama, Great Ming Divine Doctor.
• Wei Linxuan gives a pointed response, arguing that filmmakers should improve the quality of Chinese entertainment rather than rely on hype, imitation, publicity, or poorly made productions. His comments are immediately interpreted as an attack on Miracle Doctor.
• Reporters press Wei Linxuan further, suggesting that his criticism stems from hostility toward Yingdun Entertainment or Yue Feng.
• Zhao Miao interrupts the questioning with humor, challenging the reporters’ portrayal of Yue Feng as someone who “grew up watching” Lu Heng’s films. He points out that Yue Feng is actually older than Lu Heng and jokingly suggests that people of his own generation should have been the ones whose films Yue Feng watched.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng remains composed and professional under intense media scrutiny. He carefully avoids directly insulting Yue Feng while affirming his own individuality and status.
• Wei Linxuan acts protectively toward Lu Heng and speaks assertively as both his manager and a major industry figure. His remarks reveal strong principles about artistic quality and cultural responsibility, though his indirect criticism creates controversy.
• Zhao Miao demonstrates his outspoken, playful personality. He breaks the tense atmosphere with sarcasm and defends Lu Heng while also drawing attention to his own long career.
• Yue Feng, though absent, becomes central to the media confrontation because of his “Little Lu Heng” label and his connection to Miracle Doctor.
• Chen Mengyi accompanies Zhao Miao and participates in the group’s public appearance, though she has no major dialogue in the scene.

Significant Themes

• Individual identity versus imitation: Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan reject the idea that Yue Feng should be defined merely as a younger version of Lu Heng.
• Artistic integrity versus commercial hype: Wei Linxuan argues that entertainment should be carefully crafted and culturally meaningful rather than driven by publicity or market manipulation.
• Media sensationalism: Reporters repeatedly attempt to provoke conflict by turning diplomatic comments into accusations and rivalries.
• Public image and celebrity pressure: The characters must manage their words carefully while surrounded by fans, cameras, and aggressive questions.
• Industry rivalry: The release of Miracle Doctor ahead of Great Ming Divine Doctor suggests growing competition between Yingdun Entertainment and Heng Xuan Studio.

Character Interactions

• Reporters bombard Lu Heng with questions, but he maintains control and answers tactfully.
• Wei Linxuan publicly supports Lu Heng and challenges the entertainment industry’s tendency to promote imitation and low-quality work.
• The media immediately reframes Wei Linxuan’s general principles as a direct attack on Yue Feng and Miracle Doctor.
• Zhao Miao joins Lu Heng’s side, teasing the reporters and exposing the absurdity of their exaggerated description of Yue Feng’s admiration for Lu Heng.
• The group’s united public appearance emphasizes their solidarity while also revealing the growing tensions surrounding Yue Feng and the competing television dramas.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Zhao Miao, known for his sharp tongue and unrestrained mockery, is interviewed at the airport.
• Reporters try to provoke Zhao Miao into attacking a rookie actor, hoping for sensational headlines.
• Lu Heng intervenes, promoting their upcoming movie "Sword Ban" instead of engaging in drama.
• Zhao Miao, Lu Heng, and their team leave the airport together.

Character Developments

• Zhao Miao: Shows his protective side towards Lu Heng and his fiery temper when provoked.
• Lu Heng: Displays maturity and professionalism by avoiding drama and promoting his work instead.
• Chen Mengyi: Shows concern for Zhao Miao's image and career, but also teases him playfully.
• Wei Linxuan: Remains calm and collected, showing a hint of jealousy towards Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi's relationship.

Significant Themes

• The cutthroat nature of the entertainment industry and the pressure on celebrities to maintain their image.
• The importance of professionalism and maturity in handling public relations.
• The complexities of relationships and jealousy among friends and lovers.

Character Interactions

• Zhao Miao and Lu Heng: Show a strong bond, with Zhao Miao protective of Lu Heng and Lu Heng guiding Zhao Miao.
• Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi: Display a playful and affectionate dynamic, with Chen Mengyi teasing Zhao Miao and Zhao Miao responding with exaggerated reactions.
• Wei Linxuan and Zhao Miao: Show a hint of tension, with Wei Linxuan feeling jealous of Zhao Miao's relationship with Chen Mengyi.

Chapter 179 Summary

• Arrival in Hong Kong and dinner invitation: Lu Heng, Wei Linxuan, Zhao Er Miao, and Chen Mengyi travel to Hong Kong for the Golden Crow Awards. Rong Xiu calls Lu Heng to invite the group to a welcome dinner at the Four Seasons Hotel, organized by Rong Xiu, Liu Jiawei, and Director Mai Chengliang. Liu Jiawei separately invites Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi. Since everyone is staying at the same hotel, the arrangement is especially convenient.
• Lu Heng’s singing embarrassment: Rong Xiu teases Lu Heng about his poor singing ability. Lu Heng had previously been invited to perform as Rong Xiu’s mystery guest but became too nervous and secretly substituted Wei Linxuan. Wei’s impressive performance won enthusiastic fan reactions and even prompted suggestions that he debut as a singer, while Lu Heng became known in the industry for avoiding the performance and only speaking onstage. Rong Xiu also jokes that the Golden Horse Awards abandoned plans for Lu Heng to sing “Cold Night Wind” with Jia Wei.
• Wei Linxuan and Zhao Miao’s interactions: Wei Linxuan notices Zhao Miao sitting with Chen Mengyi and looks over intensely, though Zhao Miao misreads the situation and smugly waves his joined hands with Chen Mengyi. This creates a lightly comic moment rooted in Zhao Miao’s obliviousness and his close, possessive friendship with Lu Heng.
• Hotel arrangements: Lu Heng had planned ahead and booked rooms at the Four Seasons. Zhao Miao, unwilling to stay elsewhere, forced his team to cancel their original reservation and move there as well; Chen Mengyi followed him. Because the hotel’s luxury suites were already full, Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi initially had to accept business suites. Director Mai, amused by Zhao Miao’s determination to remain near Lu Heng, intervened and arranged upgrades for them.
• Over-the-top welcome: The group discovers that their four rooms are adjacent on the same floor. The hotel’s young owner, a devoted Lu Heng fan, personally welcomes them, cancels his own engagements, prepares flowers and fruit, and decorates Lu Heng’s room with a huge illuminated poster of him. He asks Lu Heng for an autograph and photograph, intending to display the signed picture in his office, while also passing along Director Mai’s greetings.
• Character development and themes: Lu Heng remains self-aware and embarrassed about his lack of singing talent, contrasting with Wei Linxuan’s natural stage presence. Zhao Miao’s impulsive but loyal personality is emphasized through his insistence on staying with Lu Heng. The chapter highlights friendship, celebrity culture, fan devotion, hospitality, and the humorous contrast between Lu Heng’s public image and his private insecurity. It also reinforces the group’s close relationships through the coordinated dinner and shared hotel arrangements.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Lu Heng learns that Director Mai Chengliang arranged for the hotel rooms to be switched, allowing Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan to stay in the deluxe suite while Zhao Miao and Chen Mengyi receive the other accommodations.
• The Four Seasons Hotel’s wealthy heir explains that reserving rooms for exceptional circumstances is standard practice in luxury hospitality, reassuring Lu Heng that the arrangement will not harm the hotel.
• Zhao Miao is deeply moved by Mai Chengliang’s consideration. Although he and Mai are not especially close, he recognizes that Mai went out of his way to help, partly because of Lu Heng.
• After the hotel staff leave, Wei Linxuan sends Zhao Miao away so that he and Lu Heng can rest privately. He gives the unused room to their assistant, Tao Xiaotao, as an employee benefit.
• Tao reacts comically and dramatically, kneeling like a medieval knight and swearing renewed loyalty to her employers before leaving the suite.
• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan reflect on Tao’s five years as Lu Heng’s assistant and discuss whether she should be promoted or transferred to a position better suited to her abilities.

Character Development

• Lu Heng shows gratitude, consideration, and concern for everyone around him. He values Tao’s happiness and recognizes that her talents and future should not be limited by her current assistant role.
• Wei Linxuan continues to demonstrate generosity and strong managerial judgment. He has rewarded Tao financially but now acknowledges that career advancement and long-term prospects are also important.
• Zhao Miao reveals a more vulnerable and appreciative side. Despite his reputation for bluntness and hostility, he is genuinely touched by Mai’s kindness.
• Tao Xiaotao is portrayed as lively, loyal, socially skilled, and highly competent. Her dedication to Lu Heng has earned her both affection and professional recognition.
• Director Mai Chengliang is shown as thoughtful and strategically considerate, extending special treatment to people important to Lu Heng.

Significant Themes

• Thoughtfulness and reciprocity: Small acts of consideration can create strong emotional bonds, especially for people accustomed to rivalry or indifference.
• Loyalty and gratitude: Zhao Miao’s heartfelt response and Tao’s exaggerated pledge emphasize the value of recognizing kindness and support.
• Employee development: The chapter stresses that retaining talented staff requires not only good pay but also meaningful opportunities for advancement.
• Friendship and chosen relationships: Lu Heng’s concern for Zhao Miao and Tao reflects his desire for the people around him to live happily and feel valued.
• Passage of time: Lu Heng’s realization that Tao has worked with him for five years highlights how quickly their careers and relationships have developed.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng politely confirms with the hotel heir that the room switch will not cause problems.
• Zhao Miao openly praises Director Mai and expresses sincere gratitude for the favor.
• Wei Linxuan humorously dismisses Zhao Miao and rewards Tao with the deluxe room.
• Tao’s theatrical loyalty declaration amuses and surprises both Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan.
• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan affectionately discuss Tao’s personality, abilities, and future, revealing their shared appreciation and responsibility toward their employee.

Chapter Summary: “The Advancing Tao Xiaotao”

Plot Points and Events

• Tao Xiaotao has remained Lu Heng’s assistant for five years, earning an exceptionally high salary of 200,000 yuan annually through wages, bonuses, and gifts.
• Wei Linxuan pays her generously because he values her loyalty, competence, and ability to care for Lu Heng. Tao Xiaotao is content with her position and has never requested a promotion or transfer.
• Lu Heng, however, believes that salary alone is not enough and has begun worrying about Tao Xiaotao’s long-term career development.
• During a discussion between Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan about Tao Xiaotao’s future, Tao suddenly returns with urgent information: Yingdun Entertainment’s Wang Dafu intends to confront them at a private dinner and bring reporters along with a performer marketed as the “Little Lu Heng.”
• Fearing a publicity attack, Tao proposes a detailed counterstrategy involving friendly media outlets, Weibo warnings, online monitoring, and countering paid paparazzi coverage.
• Her plan reveals how deeply she understands online publicity and public-relations tactics.
• Lu Heng then points out to Wei Linxuan that Tao Xiaotao is exceptionally talented at publicity planning, implying that she should move beyond being merely his assistant and develop a professional career in online promotion.

Character Development

• Tao Xiaotao: Although she considers herself unambitious and is satisfied simply supporting Lu Heng, she has quietly developed into a highly skilled publicity and marketing professional. She has taught herself video editing, image manipulation, and fan-oriented promotional techniques. Her work has helped Lu Heng, his friends, and Heng Xuan Studio’s artists attract fans and avoid hostility from other fan communities.
• Lu Heng: Demonstrates his characteristic thoughtfulness and concern for others. He recognizes abilities in Tao Xiaotao that she herself takes for granted and wants her to gain career advancement and a meaningful future.
• Wei Linxuan: Initially reluctant to lose such a capable assistant, he prioritizes Lu Heng’s wishes and begins to understand that Tao may be better suited to a broader publicity role.

Significant Themes

• Career fulfillment versus financial reward: Tao’s high salary has provided security, but Lu Heng emphasizes that professional growth and advancement matter as well.
• Hidden talent and self-perception: Tao does not recognize how exceptional her skills are because she views her promotional work as an extension of supporting Lu Heng.
• The power of media and online publicity: The chapter highlights how internet marketing, fan culture, edited videos, and coordinated public relations can shape an entertainer’s reputation.
• Loyalty and mentorship: Tao’s loyalty to Lu Heng is unwavering, while Lu Heng repays it by looking after her future and encouraging her talents.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan discuss Tao Xiaotao’s career, with Lu Heng raising concerns about her lack of advancement.
• Tao interrupts the conversation with an anxious but carefully reasoned warning about Yingdun Entertainment’s planned media confrontation.
• She presents a comprehensive defensive publicity strategy, demonstrating her expertise to both men.
• Lu Heng subtly redirects the discussion by praising Tao’s planning ability, prompting Wei Linxuan to realize that Tao may deserve a new role within the company.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Tao Xiaotao suggests contacting media in advance to prepare a counterattack against Yingdun Entertainment.
• Wei Linxuan praises her idea but decides against it, explaining the complex dynamics between artists and media.
• Wei Linxuan offers Tao Xiaotao a promotion to head the studio's online publicity department.

Character Developments

• Tao Xiaotao demonstrates her initiative and strategic thinking but also reveals her dependence on Lu Heng.
• Wei Linxuan shows his strategic acumen and willingness to delegate responsibilities.
• Lu Heng exhibits his consideration for Tao Xiaotao's career growth.

Significant Themes

• The complex relationships between artists and media in the entertainment industry.
• The importance of strategic planning and adaptability in business.
• The value of recognizing and rewarding talent and dedication in the workplace.

Character Interactions

• Wei Linxuan and Lu Heng work together to strategize and make decisions for the studio.
• Tao Xiaotao interacts with both Wei Linxuan and Lu Heng, displaying her loyalty and eagerness to grow professionally.
• Wei Linxuan and Lu Heng consider Tao Xiaotao's career development, showing their mentorship and support.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Heng, Wei Linxuan, and Zhao Miao attend a welcome banquet hosted by Director Mai Chengliang.
• Xu Baoyan, now playing a lovestruck character in a film, greets everyone flirtatiously.
• Rong Xiu arrives, and everyone exchanges hugs and greetings.
• Director Mai reveals that the Golden Crow Awards have added a rehearsal, ensuring an uninterrupted dinner gathering.
• Mai Chengliang teases Wei Linxuan about the incident during Operation A filming.
• Xu Baoyan criticizes Yue Feng (Little Lu Heng) for using Lu Heng's name for publicity and joining Yingdun Entertainment.

Character Developments

• Xu Baoyan: Now more confident and flirtatious due to her role in a new film.
• Wei Linxuan: Shows protectiveness towards Lu Heng, even from friendly teasing.
• Rong Xiu: Maintains his charismatic and friendly demeanor.
• Yue Feng (Little Lu Heng): Criticized for using Lu Heng's name for publicity and joining Yingdun Entertainment.

Significant Themes

• Friendship and Camaraderie: The group's warm interactions and shared history.
• Industry Rivalries: Tensions between Huaxia Imperial Entertainment, Heng Xuan Studio, and Yingdun Entertainment.
• Publicity and Authenticity: Criticism of Yue Feng's tied-in publicity tactics.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Xu Baoyan: They reminisce about the past and exchange friendly banter.
• Wei Linxuan and Mai Chengliang: They joke about their past falling out, showing their improved relationship.
• Everyone: The group exchanges hugs and greetings, displaying their closeness and comfort with one another.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan arrive at the Golden Crow Awards ceremony, stunning everyone with their matching black-and-white outfits from Huaxia Menswear's Deer line.
• During the red-carpet interviews, reporters ask Lu Heng about Yue Feng, but Lu Heng's fans and supporters disrupt the questioning.
• Inside the theater lobby, Yue Feng approaches Lu Heng, mimicking his style and appearance. Wei Linxuan publicly mocks Yue Feng's outfit, exposing its outdated design.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng remains calm and composed under pressure, handling the chaotic red-carpet interviews with ease.
• Wei Linxuan demonstrates his sharp tongue and assertiveness, publicly calling out Yue Feng's disrespectful behavior.
• Yue Feng shows his true colors when faced with Wei Linxuan's criticism, revealing his lack of substance and desperation for attention.

Significant Themes

• The cutthroat nature of the entertainment industry, where everyone chases the new and discards the old.
• The power dynamics between industry players, with some choosing to keep their distance from conflicts and others openly challenging the status quo.
• The importance of authenticity and personal integrity in the face of superficial imitation.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan present a united front, supporting each other both publicly and privately.
• The industry veterans in the theater lobby show their disdain for Yue Feng's tactics but choose not to engage, highlighting the complex relationships and alliances within the industry.
• Yue Feng's attempt to mimic Lu Heng backfires, leading to public humiliation and exposing his lack of genuine talent or substance.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan attend the Golden Crow Awards together.
• Yue Feng, a newcomer and Lu Heng's fan, wears a replica of Lu Heng's previous outfit to the event, causing Wei Linxuan to remark that it's old-fashioned.
• Wang Dafu, president of Yingdun Entertainment, defends Yue Feng, revealing that Yue Feng entered the industry to meet Lu Heng.
• Lu Heng exposes Yue Feng's venomous hatred towards him, then delivers a speech about not copying others' paths and respecting individuality.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng displays his superstar aura and stands up for his beliefs, showing maturity and wisdom.
• Yue Feng's true feelings towards Lu Heng are exposed, revealing his resentment and lack of self-identity.
• Wang Dafu's manipulative nature is evident as he tries to use Yue Feng to boost Yingdun Entertainment's image.

Significant Themes

• Individuality vs. Conformity: Lu Heng emphasizes the importance of being oneself and not copying others, while Wang Dafu and Yue Feng represent conformity and copying.
• Respect and Appreciation: Lu Heng values the respect and admiration of his fans but also wants them to live their own lives, not mimic his.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Wei Linxuan show mutual respect and understanding.
• Lu Heng confronts Yue Feng about his true feelings, causing Yue Feng to feel humiliated and angry.
• Wang Dafu's relationship with Yue Feng becomes strained after Lu Heng's speech, with Wang Dafu showing disdain towards Yue Feng.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Heng and Wang Dafu have a verbal clash in the lobby before the awards ceremony.
• Lu Heng delivers a powerful retort to Wang Dafu's insults, earning praise from Zhao Miao.
• Director Fang Kaizhi and actress Si Lan, presenters of the Best Picture award, witness the exchange and approach Lu Heng and his companions.
• Fang Kaizhi updates them on the delayed post-production of 'Spring Renewal' due to a scandal involving the original effects studio.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng demonstrates maturity and composure in handling Wang Dafu's provocation, showing growth in his public persona.
• Zhao Miao shows pride and support for Lu Heng, revealing his affection for the younger man.
• Director Fang Kaizhi expresses concern for Lu Heng's well-being and encourages him to maintain his integrity.

Significant Themes

• Integrity and maintaining one's principles in the face of adversity.
• The complexities of the entertainment industry and the challenges of navigating it.
• The importance of mentorship and guidance, as seen in Fang Kaizhi's advice to Lu Heng.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Wang Dafu's tense exchange highlights their differing views and personalities.
• Lu Heng, Wei Linxuan, and Zhao Miao's interaction showcases their camaraderie and mutual respect.
• Fang Kaizhi's interaction with Lu Heng and his companions underscores his role as a mentor and his concern for Lu Heng's career and personal growth.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Spring Renewal struggles with a tight budget for post-production effects, making Gods and Demons Digital an unlikely choice initially.
• Wei Linxuan agrees to help Spring Renewal with effects, but they must pay the full price. In return, Spring Renewal hopes for Wei's help in promoting the film.
• At the Golden Crow Awards, Lu Heng is nominated for Best Leading Actor, while Yue Feng is nominated for Best Newcomer.
• Yue Feng wins Best Newcomer and performs Operation A's ending theme as a tribute to Lu Heng.
• Lu Heng gives a speech about the relationship between stars and idols, seemingly targeting Wang Dafu and Yingdun Entertainment's attempts to replace him with Yue Feng.

Character Developments

• Lu Heng remains calm and professional throughout the ceremony, showing growth and maturity.
• Yue Feng appears nervous but manages to deliver a strong performance, showcasing his potential.
• Wang Dafu, president of Yingdun Entertainment, is publicly criticized by Lu Heng for his company's tactics.

Significant Themes

• The tension between Heng Xuan Studio and Yingdun Entertainment, with Lu Heng standing up for himself and his studio.
• The dynamics between idols, stars, and fans, explored through Lu Heng's speech and Yue Feng's tribute performance.

Character Interactions

• Lu Heng and Zhao Er Miao joke around during the ceremony, showing their close friendship.
• Lu Heng indirectly confronts Wang Dafu and Yingdun Entertainment through his speech.
• Yue Feng pays tribute to Lu Heng, acknowledging his influence and admiration.

Chapter Summary: “Dad’s Role”

Key Plot Points and Events

• On April 22, 2005, Wei Group holds its first shareholders’ meeting of the year, followed by a major press conference.
• Wei Renjie resigns as executive president, officially citing personal reasons. He retains his 11.5% shareholding and will continue participating in the company’s daily affairs with the support of founder Wei Xiaoyun and several shareholders.
• Wei Pangjie, the former head of the Marketing Department and Wei Xiaoyun’s nephew, is appointed the new CEO. His long experience and Harvard business education make him a credible replacement.
• The media, already fascinated by the Wei family because of celebrity Wei Linxuan, immediately asks Linxuan for his reaction. Linxuan is genuinely unaware of the leadership change and can only give formal public-relations responses.
• Linxuan calls his father, Wei Zhanjie, for an explanation. Zhanjie reveals that he orchestrated the effort to remove Wei Renjie after spending nearly six months persuading shareholders.
• Zhanjie had gathered extensive evidence against Wei Renjie, including embezzlement, accepting kickbacks through inferior products, and using company resources to establish personal funds and shell companies.
• He threatened to sue Wei Renjie if Old Master Wei refused to approve a shareholders’ meeting. Ultimately, Wei Renjie was removed without the scandal becoming a full legal case.
• Zhanjie publicly justified the removal by claiming Wei Renjie had neglected the company while concentrating on attacking Linxuan and Xiao Heng through the Qi family and gossip newspapers.
• Although many hoped Zhanjie would take control of Wei Group, he has no interest in managing the troubled company after having separated Huaxia Imperial Entertainment from it during the family division.

Character Developments

• Wei Zhanjie: Demonstrates strategic ability, determination, and fierce protectiveness toward his son. He uses both financial evidence and shareholder alliances to challenge Old Master Wei’s authority and remove Wei Renjie.
• Wei Linxuan: His lack of awareness about the corporate upheaval highlights how distant he is from the family’s business conflicts, despite being central to the media’s interest in the Wei family. He relies on his father for information and guidance.
• Wei Renjie: Loses the CEO position because of corruption, poor leadership, and his obsession with attacking Linxuan and Xiao Heng. Although disgraced, he retains shares and some influence.
• Wei Pangjie: Emerges as the new CEO. His professional background and long service establish him as a competent, system-oriented successor rather than merely a family-appointed figure.
• Old Master Wei Xiaoyun: His authority is weakened. Though he initially protects Wei Renjie, the evidence and shareholder dissatisfaction eventually force him to accept the leadership change.

Significant Themes

• Family loyalty and protection: Zhanjie’s campaign is presented as both a business decision and an effort to defend Linxuan from Wei Renjie’s attacks.
• Power versus accountability: Old Master Wei’s traditional authority is challenged by shareholder governance, evidence, and the possibility of legal action.
• Corporate corruption: Wei Renjie’s crimes expose how personal greed and family privilege have damaged Wei Group’s reputation and finances.
• Public image and media influence: Gossip newspapers and celebrity scandals affect both family relationships and corporate stock value.
• Merit versus inheritance: The new CEO-selection system suggests a move toward candidates competing based on ability, even within a powerful family-owned corporation.

Character Interactions

• Wei Linxuan and the media: Reporters pressure him for comments, but he has no prior knowledge of the decision and responds with carefully controlled statements.
• Wei Linxuan and Wei Zhanjie: Their phone conversation reveals a trusting father-son relationship. Linxuan seeks clarity, while Zhanjie explains the political and legal maneuvering behind the transition.
• Wei Zhanjie and Old Master Wei: Zhanjie confronts the family patriarch with evidence and threatens legal action, forcing him to choose between protecting Wei Renjie and preserving the company.
• Wei Zhanjie and the shareholders: He persuades dissatisfied shareholders to support Wei Renjie’s removal and advocates for a more competitive, shareholder-driven CEO system.
• Wei Renjie and Linxuan/Xiao Heng: Though mostly discussed rather than shown directly, Renjie’s campaign of slander against them is a major reason for Zhanjie’s hostility and intervention.