Chapter 36: Let's Go, Pikachu

Lunch with Shen Qian was exceptionally comfortable and relaxed; Shen Qian’s demeanor, as always, was impeccable—gentle and refined, the very picture of a gentleman.

Before Lin Zhiwei could say a word, Shen Qian took the initiative to offer her unrestricted use of his gallery and dance studio in China.

Lin Zhiwei immediately expressed her gratitude.

“There’s really no need to thank me. The Shen family’s influence in China is limited, but as long as it pertains to the field of the Nameless, we will unconditionally support you,” Shen Qian said, his tone gentle and humble, yet carrying undeniable strength.

Lin Zhiwei nodded, touched. She truly had to thank Xue Yuanyuan; had it not been for her timely intervention, she would never have gained the help of Shen Qian and Zhao Qianlu, let alone the rare gift of their friendship.

“Senior, the future can wait. I heard that Master Zec will be heading to Nepal for a month of creative exploration and has specifically requested you to accompany him. Congratulations in advance—your masterpiece is just around the corner. I’ll toast you with tea instead of wine.” Lin Zhiwei raised her teacup, her admiration clear.

A faint blush crept over Shen Qian’s face. He shyly lifted his wineglass and replied, “It is a privilege to follow my master. Thank you. Let’s hope we both find new beginnings.”

Lin Zhiwei inclined her head. Life inevitably has its highs and lows, its storms and tempests; ultimately, it's up to each person to decide whether to be their own helmsman or simply surrender to the gale.

Returning home, her parents couldn’t stop fussing over her.

“Zhiwei, have you packed everything? Is your travel permit sorted?”

“Yes, and what else do you need to buy? Where are you staying?”

“Mom, Dad, Lin Qiongjiu has given me all the information. You can stop worrying,” Lin Zhiwei said with a smile, her heart full of affection for her busy parents.

“Nonsense! Don’t just rely on Lin Qiongjiu,” her father reminded her.

“Alright, alright. I’ll call you as soon as I arrive the day after tomorrow. Don’t worry, everything in China has been arranged.”

Her mother gazed at her daughter, graceful and poised, about to leave home again, and her eyes reddened with reluctance. “Zhiwei, promise me you’ll stay safe in China...”

“Oh, Mom, please—don’t be like this. I’m just going for an internship, not off to war,” Lin Zhiwei quickly reassured her.

“That’s right, your mother worries too much. The lord’s arrangements must have their reasons.”

Good grief… Dad, just how much has Lin Qiongjiu brainwashed you? Everything he says is right, everything he does is good...

That evening, after finishing her packing, Lin Zhiwei curled up in bed, scrolling through social media. The scene at Ling Ziheng’s airport arrival was nothing short of spectacular.

He wore a mask, surrounded by vigilant security, yet fervent fans still managed to break through the cordon several times.

He truly was a film emperor—such charisma, such sway.

The media on site seized their chance, immediately rushing up for an interview:

“Mr. Ling, do you have anything to say to your fans regarding the recent trending topics?”

Ling Ziheng’s eyes flickered, and at once the fans erupted in shrieks. He paused, then said in a low voice, “Thank you to all my Feathers. Every day you are here is another day of sunshine.”

His mask covered most of his face, but as soon as those words were spoken, the scene, silent for a heartbeat, exploded into a frenzy of cheers:

“Ruoyu in my heart, never far apart!”

“Ruoyu, our king and emperor!”

“Ruoyu, we’ll always love you!”

Lin Zhiwei stared in amazement. She had imagined such scenes, but could only marvel at the organizational strength of the Feather Girls. The event was orderly, with fans even appointed as discipline monitors. It was, in her view, the most impressive and upstanding gathering of fans she’d ever seen.

Just then, her phone rang, abruptly pulling her from the fevered excitement of the scene. The number was from China.

“Zhiwei.”

Ling Ziheng’s voice drifted from the other end, gentle and tinged with playful tease.

“You startled me. I was just watching the live feed of your fans at the airport.” Lin Zhiwei was still half-lost in the atmosphere.

A chuckle came from the other end as he shifted the phone, his voice low. “Are you all set?”

“Just about. Not much to bring.” Lin Zhiwei glanced at her single suitcase and backpack. Oh, right—the most important thing was her sister-in-law’s little treasure box. Nothing else was essential.

“Good. See you tomorrow. Pei Xi will be waiting for you at the airport VIP gate.”

“Got it.”

Ling Ziheng swirled the wine in his glass, exhaustion weighing on him. Only when he heard the girl’s voice on the other end did he feel a sliver of relief. Yet, regrettably, she seemed to have not a thought for him, wholly absorbed in watching the fan frenzy, without a single word of affection for him.

Ah well, it was all his own wishful thinking. He rose to take a shower, hoping cold water might restore his composure.

Lin Zhiwei, for her part, was entirely unconcerned. Alone in her room, she steeled herself once more—onward, Pikachu, go to China, work hard, earn a living. Sigh, who knew when her little credit card would be unfrozen.

A new storm was already on the horizon, and she could only grit her teeth and charge forward. After all, every path to fortune is strewn with thorns, especially in the entertainment world, where the way is both arduous and long.

Still, anything was better than staying behind and getting battered by Lin Qiongjiu. Let the storm rage even fiercer.