Lights, Camera, Chaos

Li Xia tightened her grip on the handle of her suitcase as she stepped out of the airport, the humid city air brushing against her face. The skyline of Hancheng stretched before her—bright, bustling, and filled with endless possibilities. It was a world away from Xiaolong, and yet, an undeniable thrill ran through her veins. She had made it.

Her new job wasn't just any role—it was her first major breakthrough in the entertainment industry. The historical fantasy drama Silken Oath had been generating immense buzz, starring none other than Liu Zixuan, the nation's beloved leading actor, alongside the elegant and widely adored actress, Shen Yuyan. The series followed a tale of love, betrayal, and political intrigue, set in the twilight years of a once-powerful dynasty. Li Xia had landed the role of Princess Rongxin, a pivotal character who, while not the main lead, played a crucial part in the power struggles that unfolded.

As she arrived on set, the sheer scale of the production overwhelmed her. Towering palace structures, meticulously crafted to resemble an ancient imperial court, loomed before her. Crew members hurried back and forth, adjusting lights, setting up props, and finalizing costumes. She barely had time to take it all in before an assistant director rushed over.

"Li Xia! You're needed in costume immediately," the woman said briskly, leading her toward a large tent lined with racks of intricate silk robes.

Inside, the head stylist, Madam Qiao, barely glanced at her before thrusting a jade-green hanfu into her hands. "Quickly, put this on. Scene 12 is being shot in twenty minutes."

Li Xia nodded and hurriedly changed, the weight of the embroidered gown grounding her nerves. She stared at herself in the mirror—Princess Rongxin stared back, her regal aura undeniable. This was real.

Stepping onto the set, she spotted Liu Zixuan and Shen Yuyan rehearsing their lines. Their chemistry was effortless, their presence magnetic. Before she could marvel too long, Director Zhang, known for his sharp temper and perfectionism, clapped his hands.

"Alright, we're going straight into the court confrontation scene. Li Xia, you're in the center. This is your moment—Princess Rongxin publicly denounces the crown prince for his betrayal. Make it powerful."

She swallowed hard. No warm-ups. No second chances. Just her, under the unforgiving glare of the cameras.

The scene began.

The moment she stepped forward, her nervousness melted away.

"Your Highness," she declared, voice clear and unwavering, "you speak of loyalty, yet your hands are stained with the blood of those who trusted you."

Liu Zixuan, fully in character as the crown prince, narrowed his eyes. "Mind your words, Rongxin. A reckless tongue can lead to a reckless fate."

Her heart pounded, but she didn't falter. She stepped closer, her eyes blazing with defiance. "And a throne built on deception will never stand."

Silence.

Then—

"Cut!"

Director Zhang stepped forward, his expression unreadable. Then, to Li Xia's shock, he gave a nod of approval. "Not bad for a newcomer. Keep this up, and you'll make a name for yourself."

Relief flooded her chest. She had done it.

But as she walked off set, Shen Yuyan approached her, her expression unreadable. "That was impressive," she said, tilting her head slightly. "But be careful—this industry doesn't take kindly to those who rise too fast."

Li Xia blinked. Was that a warning or a challenge?

As she turned away, her phone buzzed. A message from Chen Wei.

"How's the city treating you?"

She smiled faintly, then glanced back at the sprawling set.

"Different. But I think I can handle it."