Unknowingly, it was time for the audition.
This audition was attended by Director Jin and several important production team members, showing how much importance they placed on the role.
The character, which had been difficult to cast, was recommended by someone—none other than Yan Han. Of course, this made everyone take it seriously and expectantly. They believed that anyone recommended by Yan Han would not be bad, and they were already eagerly waiting for Pei Lang’s appearance.
Today, Pei Lang deliberately wore a bamboo green Chinese-style long robe from the Republic of China period. Although it wasn’t ancient attire, it still made him look ethereal and graceful, with every gesture filled with the charm of traditional Chinese style.
They had already arrived downstairs, and Su Jia had taken care of everything. Pei Lang just had to head in for the audition and wait for the results. As they entered the elevator, Su Jia couldn’t help but feel distressed about Pei Lang’s deliberate outfit. He knew well that Pei Lang’s acting skills weren’t up to par. Even if Director Jin’s eyes were closed, it was impossible for him to be chosen. The current Pei Lang wasn’t unpleasant, though. Instead, he shone so brightly that it was hard to look away. The thought of Pei Lang’s careful preparations eventually ending in failure made Su Jia want to speak out, but he could only offer words of comfort in the end.
“Don’t be nervous when you meet the director later. Just present your best self. If you don’t get chosen, don’t get discouraged. With your looks, you could easily be an idol instead of an actor. I’ve noticed you play guitar, right? You could debut as a trainee and maybe learn to sing, too. With some practice, you’ll definitely be in the spotlight.”
Su Jia had already planned Pei Lang’s future, knowing that Pei Lang had performed for the children at the orphanage but unaware of his singing abilities.
Since guitar is often played with singing and Pei Lang was skilled with the instrument, it seemed reasonable to assume he could sing as well. With his good voice and more practice, debuting as an idol wouldn’t be a problem.
“I know, don’t worry. This is the best opportunity. I’ll make the most of it.” Pei Lang smiled and patted Su Jia’s shoulder, who was even more nervous than him, to reassure him.
By the time they were done talking, they had already reached the designated floor. Following the instructions provided, they found the audition room. There was a receptionist at the door who approached them when she saw Su Jia. “Are you Mr. Su?”
“Yes, we’re here for the audition.”
“The director is already waiting. This gentleman must be the one auditioning?” The woman’s eyes flicked over Pei Lang. For a moment, a trace of amazement flashed in her gaze, but her face maintained a mechanical smile. “Please follow me.”
She led Pei Lang to knock on the door, explained the situation, and was granted permission. “Please go in, the director is waiting for you.”
“Yes, thank you.” After expressing his gratitude, Pei Lang gently pushed the door open and entered.
“Mr. Su, please follow me to the waiting area,” the receptionist said to Su Jia.
Su Jia followed the receptionist to the waiting area.
As Pei Lang entered the audition room, several pairs of eyes immediately swept over him, either scrutinizing or evaluating him. Pei Lang simply smiled calmly, walked to the center of the room, and stood still. Before he could introduce himself, the most authoritative figure in the room, Director Jin, sitting in the middle, asked directly, “Are you the young man recommended by Mr. Yan?”
“Yes, Director.” Pei Lang knew exactly how Yan Han had spoken to the director about him. He couldn’t believe that Yan Han referred to him as a “young man”—was he really considered a child at 27 years old and over 180 cm tall?
“You know my rules, right?” Director Jin asked again.
“I do, and I appreciate Director Jin giving me the opportunity to audition.” The so-called “rules” meant that no matter who recommended someone, if Director Jin wasn’t impressed, they would be dismissed.
In theory, this opportunity was rare. With a first audition in front of a major production and a renowned director, most people would feel nervous. But not Pei Lang. He remained calm, his expression polite and smiling, with just the right balance—not too flattering and insincere, giving off a very comfortable vibe.
Director Jin was not young, appearing to be in his thirties or forties, with a well-maintained figure that made him seem wise and mature. The moment Pei Lang entered, Director Jin’s eyes scanned him like a machine. It had to be said that Pei Lang’s subtle intentions and deliberately chosen attire were very attractive. And simply based on his appearance, Pei Lang was quite fitting for the role.
In the original novel, the second male character was complex and was described as quite handsome.
Of course, the entertainment industry was full of attractive people. While Pei Lang was certainly top-tier in terms of looks, the most important thing now was whether he could embody the character.
When it came to casting, Director Jin considered both appearance and acting ability. Many would say that the investors had the final say in a project, but it was different with Director Jin. He was the boss, and everything had to follow his rules because he had the ability to make a show successful and profitable. As a result, many people lined up to invest in his projects, making him the one with the greatest influence.
He had principles and strength. Pei Lang admired this kind of director.
“Let’s begin once you’re ready,” Director Jin said. Pei Lang, who had been smiling just moments before, suddenly changed his expression and instantly got into character.
He performed a scene where the second male character goes mad, muttering to himself as he spirals into darkness. His eyes were intense, shifting quickly between emotions—envy, unwillingness, and madness. Paired with the script’s dialogue, it felt as though technology had brought the character from the book to life in front of them.
This scene was difficult to perform. If not controlled properly, it could easily turn into a soulless portrayal of a madman. But Pei Lang nailed it, bringing out the core of the character while making his madness seem logical and justified as if the whole world had wronged him.
The scene was only about ten minutes long. After it ended, Pei Lang was the first to step out of character, but the onlookers were still captivated. It wasn’t until Pei Lang politely bowed that Director Jin finally clapped his hands in approval. “Not bad, not bad. You’re quite the talented young man.”
After searching for so long, they had finally found a hopeful candidate for the role. Director Jin and the producers nearby were all visibly excited. They had been hopeful, but they hadn’t expected Pei Lang to perform so well—he exceeded their expectations by far.
“Thank you, Director,” Pei Lang said humbly, bowing once more. Director Jin, clearly satisfied with his performance, nodded in approval. After a brief hesitation, Pei Lang spoke up. “Director, I would like to try another scene to show you more of my abilities, if that’s okay?”
Since the audition had left them wanting more, Director Jin readily agreed to his request.
Pei Lang, not wanting to waste anyone’s time, immediately began preparing.
Without warning, the sleeves of his long robe, which were not very wide, slid down, and an ornamental folding fan appeared. As it fell into his hand, he grabbed it with precision, then snapped it open with a dramatic flourish.
In his hands, the fan transformed into a sharp weapon. His professional martial arts movements were perfectly paired with the fan, blending grace and strength. Twirling, flipping… his movements were both beautiful and powerful. As he executed a side flip, the image of the character, a young man dancing gracefully, seemed to materialize before their eyes. Then, with a cold glint in his eyes, Pei Lang snapped the fan shut. The 35-centimeter fan became a short sword, and his movements quickened. His expression was filled with struggle and frustration, and his actions were desperate and chaotic, as though he was trying to release some pent-up emotion.
This was the second male lead’s inner struggle as he teetered on the edge of darkness. Pei Lang had brought it to life through his martial arts.
The movements were perfectly in sync with the character’s inner turmoil, yet it was clear to see Pei Lang’s martial arts skills. He performed a series of difficult maneuvers flawlessly, starting from a low stance—flying kicks, side flips, sword thrusts, sweeping slashes, and sword flicks. His actions flowed effortlessly, like water. Aside from walking on walls, he truly appeared as though a martial arts hero had jumped right out of the pages of a book.
At this point, with Pei Lang acting, there was no need for a martial arts director.
Pei Lang finished his performance with a perfect spin, bowing without breaking a sweat, his face neither flushed nor out of breath. It was clear that his stamina was impressive.
Applause erupted. Director Jin, who was excited, jumped to his feet. He walked around the table to stand before Pei Lang, his smile impossible to suppress. “Good, good, good!! Hahaha~~ This role is yours! Mr. Yan really didn’t disappoint me, it’s you, kid! I’ll have someone draft the contract and terms for you as soon as possible. If you have any requests, feel free to ask.”
Pei Lang hadn’t expected it to be settled so quickly. Though he had confidence, he hadn’t anticipated it going this smoothly. Any requests… he didn’t have any for now. “Thank you, Director, I’ll follow the production team’s arrangements.”
That said, anyone recommended by Yan Han would definitely be treated well.
Director Jin really liked this obedient young man, but up until now, he still didn’t know his name. “Kid, what’s your name?”
Pei Lang was momentarily stunned by the question. It dawned on him that he hadn’t told them his name yet. No wonder these people didn’t seem to have any bias against him; they didn’t even know he was Pei Lang.
It was also because he had changed so much.
The original owner had long hair, heavy makeup, and flamboyant clothing, all of which Pei Lang had completely abandoned. So it was normal that people didn’t recognize him. Occasionally, someone might find him familiar, but they wouldn’t associate him with that old Pei Lang.
When it comes to debuting, one can use a stage name, but Pei Lang wasn’t planning on doing that. Since he had taken over the original owner’s body, he naturally accepted the troubles that came with it. After all, he was Pei Lang.
So, Pei Lang confidently introduced himself by his real name.
Director Jin furrowed his brows after hearing Pei Lang’s name, and Pei Lang’s heart skipped a beat. “That name is not great; it’s too similar to someone else’s. You just entered the industry, right? You might as well pick a stage name and debut with that.”
Could it be that the person you’re talking about is me?
Although this might cost him the acting opportunity, Pei Lang felt the need to explain. “Director, I am Pei Lang, the one you know.”
“???” Director Jin was surprised—surprised by Pei Lang’s transformation, surprised by his honesty. “You really are that Pei Lang?”
Looking at Pei Lang’s martial arts moves, it didn’t seem like something he picked up quickly, so… he just couldn’t understand. How could someone who knew nothing, a good-for-nothing, have conquered him today with his acting?
The original owner had never had a chance to meet Director Jin, everything had been based on online videos and rumors. Now, Director Jin seriously looked at Pei Lang, who remained calm with a smile. He commented, “Rumors are dangerous.”
“Whatever your name is, this role is yours now. Just make sure you perform well.”
“Thank you, Director.”
The subsequent contract signing and team arrangements were all handled by others. After saying goodbye to the director, Pei Lang went out.
Su Jia was anxiously waiting in the lounge. When he saw Pei Lang enter, he stood up in surprise. He noticed Pei Lang’s expression was neither happy nor sad and immediately thought that he had been eliminated.
Pei Lang was still trying to act calm.
Su Jia rushed over, hugging Pei Lang while patting his back to comfort him. “Hey, it’s no big deal if we didn’t make it. Director Jin’s standards are always high. He has eliminated countless actors. Don’t be discouraged. We can change direction, or if you really want to act, we can start with small roles and small productions. We can take it slow.”
“Uh, hehe~~” Pei Lang chuckled, feeling both amused and warm, giving a dry laugh.
