Chapter Twenty-Seven: Sunzhou's Transformation

Sun Zhou smiled indifferently, “Don’t be anxious. What Brother Shan said just now—the instinctive reaction—was what shook me. When I called him shrewd, it wasn’t an insult; I meant his approach to problems is so genuine. Now I’m even more convinced that anyone else in his place would have done the same, because in that moment, he truly didn’t hesitate, just like his answer a moment ago—so sincere it could be mistaken for slyness.”

As he spoke, Sun Zhou, who never took the initiative to toast, raised his glass, clinked it hard against Liu Qingshan’s, and downed it in one gulp.

“The so-called shock comes from a sense of responsibility I’ve never examined deeply in myself. Of course, you can’t see it just from this one instance. After that accident the day before yesterday, I was a little stirred up and called an old friend in Hengdian to find out more about this man’s background.”

Sun Zhou then recounted what he’d heard about Liu Qingshan nearly suffocating in the water.

There was no need for further explanation; everyone present immediately understood his implication.

An extra who survives by playing corpses, yet holds so steadfastly to his sense of responsibility—how many true actors can claim the same?

You have to remember, Liu Qingshan knew he’d exceeded his limit for holding his breath underwater, knew how dangerous it was to leap off that cliff, and still insisted on doing it. That can only be explained by a sense of duty.

But Sun Zhou wasn’t done talking.

“I always thought that what I had to do was only be responsible for myself, and so I neglected my responsibility to others. What Brother Shan did was a real lesson for me! Take the way I used to handle things—I always knew people talked about me behind my back. But suddenly I realized—many things can’t just be smoothed over by so-called personality. I have a responsibility to care for those around me as well!”

“So you mean, you suddenly understood the importance of relationships?” Chen Long’s tone was excited; after all, seeing a friend’s outlook shift for the better is always a good thing.

“I can’t say I fully understand. Honestly, at our age, some stubbornness of character can’t be changed. But at least now I’m starting to pay attention. Lately I keep wondering whether it’s more important to be responsible for myself or to put my duty to those around me first. Especially when making a film—the final say belongs to the director, but it’s never just my achievement alone.”

“Of course not. Don’t tell me you’re only realizing such a simple truth now!”

“I’ve always known it, but I only focused on keeping my own word, on self-respect, confidence, independence, and strength. I never thought that guiding others through reasonable, lawful means is also a form of responsibility. In short, my personality made me a bit self-absorbed, neglecting the feelings of others.”

Only then did Liu Qingshan finally understand what this man was trying to say.

And just as Sun Zhou himself admitted, after all his roundabout talk, that was the conclusion.

Perhaps this was simply the man’s way: a bit like an artist, with a mind that wandered wherever his words took him.

In truth, Liu Qingshan disagreed with much of his perspective. For example, when it comes to saving someone—if you don’t have the ability, it’s not responsible, it’s just foolish.

Of course, every matter has two sides. Sun Zhou, at fifty, was still obsessed with directing; if he could gain some insight because of this, it could only be a good thing.

Besides, those who knew him well understood that Sun Zhou was not as intransigent as he appeared.

In fact, he was also the president of a certain magazine, and vice president of an advertising company, among other side ventures. He was by no means closed off in life.

Perhaps only when he focused on his main profession did he show the basic attitude of a filmmaker—his ideal state.

Clearly, Liu Qingshan’s understanding of him was not as deep as Chen Long’s.

The latter was nodding in agreement now.

“I’ve directed enough films to understand that sense of responsibility you’re talking about! Old Sun, I’m glad your thinking has changed. I may not be lacking in this area, but I’ve got my own faults. At our age, being able to face them head-on is something I admire.”

“That’s why, from now on, I plan to try blending in more with those around me. But I can guarantee, among the people at this table, there are few who can truly grasp how we feel!”

“I agree. Maybe Director Tang might sense something similar, but don’t be fooled by Rongguang’s age. With his temper, I doubt he’s experienced as much as Qingshan!”

Sure enough, Yu Rongguang didn’t care for deep sentiments. He said carelessly, “That’s too profound for me—I can’t be bothered! Shan, let’s drink. Joining this crew wasn’t for nothing; at least I got to know you, brother!”

Chen Long quickly joined in, “Exactly! Meeting Qingshan is our good fortune. I’ll say this now—in less than ten years, his achievements will surpass anyone here!”

Liu Qingshan hastily raised his glass in response, and for a moment, the atmosphere around the table grew lively.

After several rounds, Chen Long used a trip to the restroom as an excuse to pull him aside.

“Today, Director Tang and Qinghuang’s boss brought up that matter. According to Brother Hui, the credit for the idea was given to him.”

“What did President Yang say?”

“It’s clear he’s more versed in such things than either of us. Director Tang had barely begun before he guessed most of what followed. Right now, he’s in favor but wants further discussion. Still, he said, in principle, he approves.”

“So the crew is going to invite the relevant authorities for inspection next?”

“Nothing gets past you! Yes, Brother Yang said we should do what’s necessary. He even mentioned you specifically.”

“What about me?”

“Maybe he suspects you’re the main force behind the idea—that’s just my guess, of course. He knows Brother Hui far better than I do and probably doesn’t buy all our excuses. So he asked that you and Brother Hui head to Chang’an ahead of time to wait for him. Anyway, there’s not much left to shoot on Mount Li.”

“Don’t I need to explain things to the authorities myself?”

“Xishan will handle it. Besides, this is a good opportunity to pretend you’re being sent to Chang’an for further treatment.”

“That’ll work? Won’t they just find out the truth at the hospital?”

“Don’t worry about that—I have my ways. The main point is that you and Brother Hui need to get your story straight in advance. We’re all just thinking about your future.”

“Can’t I just not go to Chang’an? Honestly, what Brother Hui said yesterday makes sense. I’m just a newcomer recently promoted from bit parts; getting involved in something this big isn’t necessarily a good thing.”

“You should be grateful you met me. As for Director Tang, he’ll go along with me—he’s my man.”