Chapter 5 The Commencement Ceremony

That day, a video taken at the airport went viral across every major online platform. In the footage, the man with a cool and quiet demeanor was none other than the nation’s idol, Lu Yuxiu.

He had just disembarked from his flight when he was surrounded by the media. Dressed head-to-toe in black casualwear and a baseball cap, he strode quickly, flanked by his assistant and bodyguards. Around him, entertainment reporters and paparazzi formed several circles, shouting questions and causing quite a commotion. The fans, on the other hand, were remarkably well-behaved, lining up in neat rows, snapping photos quietly.

Lu Yuxiu’s fans were recognized throughout the industry for their decorum. They refrained from giving expensive gifts—he never accepted them anyway—restricting themselves to handing letters to his assistant and taking photos. They understood everything: stay a little farther from the person, a little closer to his work. They suppressed their excitement, content just to see him up close.

A reporter did the usual and chased after him with a routine question, “God Xiu, may I ask what your criteria are for a partner?” No one ever expected him to reply.

But to everyone’s astonishment, he stopped in his tracks, faced the camera, expressionless, and replied in a flat tone, “Her.”

In that instant, the previously noisy airport fell utterly silent. The cameraman nearly dropped his equipment in shock.

By the time everyone regained their senses, Lu Yuxiu had already walked away. Some fans, unable to process what had just happened, screamed hysterically, and the airport was thrown into chaos once more.

That day, every major media outlet scrambled to report: the ever-unattainable, seemingly unfeeling idol had publicly admitted to having someone he liked.

Even his normally serene fans found it hard to accept, letting out howls of disbelief and grief, some even unfollowing him in a frenzy. Yet Lu Yuxiu cared nothing for that. Now that he had found her, he had no intention of hiding anymore. His answer to the reporter’s question was calculated, giving his fans time to prepare themselves—so that when their relationship became public, they would not turn on Lin Xi.

Lin Xi came across the video online as well, but she paid it little mind. After all, they barely knew each other. She glanced at it and promptly put it out of her mind.

She returned to Dragon City the next day. Her brother, Lin Tianyou, took her directly to the new house he had bought for her—a villa in Splendid Courtyard. Many celebrities and artists lived here, enjoying its privacy.

What Lin Tianyou didn’t know was that this property was owned by Starlight Group. The day before Lin Xi moved in, Lu Yuxiu had already been informed and promptly decided to move in himself, choosing the villa closest to hers. Now that he had resolved to win her back, he would not sit idly by.

If Lin Tianyou realized he had unwittingly helped Lu Yuxiu, who knows how he would react. As much as he wanted things to unfold naturally, he had no intention of throwing his sister into someone else’s arms.

Lin Xi, oblivious to these undercurrents, was thoroughly pleased as she took in her new home.

The villa had two floors: the ground floor held the living room, dining area, semi-open kitchen, and a guest room. Upstairs, more private, were the bedroom, study, gym, and a design studio—a quiet and elegant oasis, yet not lacking in comfort.

The entire decor was a clean and fresh European style, designed entirely to her tastes. Her brother had truly been attentive.

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Today was the launch ceremony for “Era of Splendor.”

Per Director Lu’s instructions, Lin Xi changed into her costume for the drama. Her own stylist and wardrobe team were among the best in the industry. It was said she would have over a hundred different looks in this drama—on average, two per episode.

This was Lin Xi’s first time acting in a domestic TV series, and everything felt novel to her. Learning she’d have over a hundred outfits only made her more curious and eager to begin filming.

On Weibo, the official account for “Era of Splendor” announced the start of filming and tagged the cast. When netizens saw that the male lead was Lu Yuxiu, the internet exploded.

@BowlOfShreddedPorkNoodles: Ahhh, God Xiu is actually doing a TV series??? Screaming like a groundhog, ahhh!

@XiuGodBaby: A blockbuster is coming! Get hyped, everyone!

@AfraidToLoveMe: With Director Lu at the helm, it’s bound to be a hit! To see the father and son duo together again in my lifetime—no regrets!

...

But when everyone saw @LinXiV, they were puzzled:

@charles: Never seen this female lead before. Is she a rookie? Can she really act alongside my God Xiu?

@Makabaka: Director Lu is actually promoting an unknown newcomer? Unbelievable!

@SnowFalling: Rumor has it both leads were cast through connections. First drama and already at the peak? That’s a leap!

@StrengthRepresentsAll: If Director Lu chose her, she must be talented. Looking forward to it.

“Era of Splendor” was a grand martial fantasy drama. The short novel it was based on had already taken the country by storm, been translated into multiple languages, and spread across Asia. Book fans overseas were following updates closely, actively engaging on social platforms.

The show was a hit before filming even began. The official account had only released a cast list—no posters, no stills.

Lin Xi played the female lead, Ruan Wushuang, who grew up traveling the martial world with her master. After being separated from her master and senior brother, she met the male lead, Ye Mochen. Over time, their feelings grew, and after confessing to each other, they stood side by side, facing the villain who sought to dominate the world. Together, they battled enemies, leveled up, overcame countless hardships, and finally brought peace and prosperity.

The novel’s popularity stemmed from the sweet, steadfast relationship between the leads—equals in every way—paired with exhilarating fight scenes, no melodrama, a brisk pace, and a humorous tone.

The script was adapted by the original author, Misty Rain, into a concise thirty-episode arc—short for a domestic costume drama—so filming was scheduled for only six months, wrapping up by the end of March next year.

Lin Xi changed into her character’s early look: a deep red, lightweight outfit, elegant and ethereal. Her vivid and enchanting features were framed by a fresh, cloud-shaped chignon, her jet-black hair piled high, softening her striking beauty and lending her a touch of refreshing charm. There was a captivating spirit to her, leaving people entranced.

As soon as she appeared, everyone was stunned—Ruan Wushuang had come to life!

On the other side, Lu Yuxiu wore a blue, straight-collared robe, his black hair bound with a golden crown. A faint glow seemed to shimmer on his skin, and his eyes glinted with mesmerizing light; every glance carried the power to turn worlds upside down. His expression was as cold as the stars, his nose high and straight, his features silent and handsome as ice. Tall and aloof, he radiated innate nobility and command—a king, Ye Mochen, come to life.

The young fangirls around him couldn’t stop praising:

“Wow, God Xiu is so handsome, I’m literally dying right now!”

“So jealous of the female lead! My idol! I can’t handle this!”

“I’m drooling, oh my god, he’s too hot! Let me keep dreaming!”

Now it was Lin Xi’s turn to be bewildered. The male lead was Lu Yuxiu? What a coincidence!

Why did she keep running into him these days? Still, there was no denying his acting was impeccable; she was actually looking forward to acting with him.

There seemed to be quite a few intimate scenes in the script—what if she couldn’t keep her composure? While Lin Xi’s mind drifted, Lu Yuxiu had already approached her.

“Xiao Xi, how are you settling in? Are you comfortable?” Lu Yuxiu asked gently, his expression warm.

Lin Xi blinked in confusion. God Xiu wasn’t as cold as Mia had said. Were they really this familiar? Then she remembered—it must be because of her fourth brother.

She returned to herself and nodded politely, “Thank you, God Xiu, I’m doing well.”

“I told you, just call me Brother Yuxiu,” Lu Yuxiu said with a gentle smile.

Lin Xi found herself distracted by his good looks, blushing at his smile—thankfully, her makeup hid it.

Everyone on set was shocked. Was this really God Xiu? When had he become so gentle? And actually starting a conversation with a girl? Were they seeing things? Where was their aloof, untouchable idol?

Lin Xi obediently called out softly, “Brother Yuxiu…”

Lu Yuxiu, unable to resist her dazed, adorable expression, reached out and gently ruffled the back of her head.

Lin Xi went completely rigid; her scalp tingled and she swallowed involuntarily.

She rolled her eyes inwardly. Was this all because of her fourth brother—caring for her out of affection for him?

But then she was struck by an inexplicable sense of familiarity, as if this gesture had happened countless times before.

Nearby, Zhou Jun lowered his head and closed his eyes—he could hardly bear to witness this scene. His boss was being far too unrestrained.

“Everyone, the launch ceremony is about to begin. Please gather over here,” called a member of the crew.

“Let’s go.” Lu Yuxiu led Lin Xi to the ceremony area.

Though today was just the opening ceremony, Lu Jin and Lu Yuxiu’s influence had drawn many media outlets, all eager for first-hand coverage.

Lu Jin had invited several reputable media teams to film on site.

As Lu Yuxiu and Lin Xi walked in together, no one present had expected such perfect on-screen chemistry—their costumes revealed to the public right at the ceremony.

Lu Jin had achieved his goal: unlike others who guarded their stars’ looks closely, he deliberately revealed the leads in costume during the ceremony, creating a striking first impression.

Once the media recovered, they snapped photos furiously.

Lu Yuxiu naturally draped his arm over Lin Xi’s shoulder for the cameras. She tensed at first, thinking, “So quick to get into character? Professional!” Then she smiled and played along, determined not to hold him back.

They posed for photos, cool and sweet in turn, their chemistry jumping off every frame. The media were delighted, taking high-definition shots—their interaction was so photogenic, it practically saved the production the cost of shooting official stills. Well, that was an exaggeration; stills would be taken regardless.

After the ceremony, the photos hit the internet at once, and netizens went wild.

@StrawberryJam: No way, no way? Is that God Xiu actually smiling? Am I seeing things? The female lead is so pretty too; I’m obsessed with her looks.

@HappySodaLalala: Wuwuwu, let go of God Xiu! He’s mine! The female lead isn’t worthy! Don’t seduce my idol, my heart is shattered.

@Outsider: I’m so jealous, really. My cold, icy God Xiu is gone. My youth is over!!!

@PrajnaOu: This newcomer is so lucky—her first drama and she’s paired with God Xiu and Director Lu. What a powerful background! No words.

Soon, several topics trended:

“Director Lu’s new drama begins filming”

“God Xiu takes on a TV role”

“Female lead of ‘Era of Splendor’ has a powerful background”

But within an hour, all rumors detrimental to Lin Xi were erased, replaced entirely by promotional material for “Era of Splendor.”

Lin Xi remained completely unaware. After finishing work and returning to Splendid Courtyard, she sat down, unwrapped a Big White Rabbit milk candy, and popped it into her mouth. The sweet, milky flavor melted on her tongue when her phone suddenly buzzed.

She took it out. It was a WeChat message: [Don’t mind the rumors online.]

The sender’s profile picture was solid black. Curious, Lin Xi checked his Moments—completely blank.

Meanwhile, Lu Yuxiu sat in his study, staring anxiously at his screen after sending the message, brows furrowed. Was she busy? Eating? Would this disturb her?

Just as he was agonizing, the screen lit up. Lin Xi replied: [Excuse me, who is this?]

Lu Yuxiu was simultaneously amused and exasperated. She didn’t even know it was him—hadn’t saved his contact? This little scatterbrain.

He sighed, a trace of amusement flickering in his dark eyes: [Xiao Xi, it’s your Brother Yuxiu.]

Lin Xi was mortified when she realized. She remembered now—she had scanned his contact but never paid attention, too busy preparing for the new show. Now, a message from someone named “.” had thrown her off.

[Brother Yuxiu, sorry, sorry. Don’t worry about me; I haven’t looked at the online comments.] She replied quickly.

Looking at Lin Xi’s WeChat name, “Little Stream,” Lu Yuxiu found her even more endearing—just like when she was a child. He smiled faintly and wrote back: [It’s all right. If you have any questions, just ask me. I’m always here.]

Lin Xi felt a warmth in her heart, thinking he must be a really easy-going person.

But perhaps only she would think so. If she knew how he used to deal with women who tried to approach him, she’d understand just how ruthless he could be.

She couldn’t explain why, but every time she interacted with Lu Yuxiu, there was always a faint, lingering sense of longing—as if she could never forget him.