Chapter 97: Return Plan

by Ji-seong.They have now seen the finished MV, and their initial interest and anticipation for Ji-yeong's proposal of a "one-shot" filming have been replaced with satisfaction, amazement, and a stron...These two short days, the emotions of everyone on set were like a roller coaster, fluctuating wildly. The changes were so rapid that people couldn't keep up.

The day before, morale had plummeted to rock bottom because viewership didn't increase but instead dropped. The next day, however, the mood immediately soared due to a sudden surge in viewership numbers.

Although it's a significant increase compared to the previous three episodes, 14.9% is actually not a very high number and hasn't even reached the lowest viewership rate of "The Sun Also Rises".

However, when Chi Jingyuan was browsing online discussions, he keenly sensed that the comments on "The Heirs" were slowly becoming more positive. Many people were saying that although the earlier plot was a bit clichéd, these few episodes had shown something different beyond the traditional idol drama format, and they were looking forward to future developments, rather than simply criticizing and bashing it.

Excluding those who hate EXO and Ji Chang Wook out of spite, the public's opinion on his portrayal of Kim Tan is very positive. Even though the subsequent plot hasn't developed, the impression he left with his performance in the first four episodes alone is very deep, essentially earning him the most praise and recognition among all actors who appeared in those episodes.

In a film and television forum, the highest-rated long comment is written as follows:

After watching the first four episodes, I don't feel like discussing the plot; it's pointless.

"Let's talk about the actors, the one who left the deepest impression on me was the male lead, Kim Kang-hyeon. His portrayal of Jin-tan is truly the most realistic depiction of a chaebol heir I've seen in all the dramas I've watched."

His likeness isn't conveyed through an arrogant expression or by extravagant clothing and a luxurious setting. Instead, it comes from his inner charisma and expressions that perfectly match his character. Every little gesture, glance, and habit feels natural and effortless, giving the impression that he truly is Jin Tan, not just acting the part.

"His acting in those first few episodes, in that amazing luxurious villa, was so natural, effortless, like he'd been living there for ages…"

“I wonder if Chi Jingyuan's family background is pretty good in real life Does anyone who’s an EXO fan or a Yuan fan know I’m just a passerby and didn’t know much about him before… His looks and charisma are really unique. All I can say is, based on the feeling he gives off in the drama, even if he's wearing a ragged sack and looking disheveled standing in front of me, I wouldn't think he's a beggar at all. Instead, I would think he's a runaway noble son.”

This long review has not only been well-received by EXO fans but has also received a lot of recognition from passersby, directly topping the forum. Clicks and comments are increasing.

But the questions he raised in his long review went unanswered. Throughout his career, Ji Jingyuan has never revealed anything about his family background. Only during some talk shows where members chatted, was it hinted that he wasn't short of money and often treated others to meals, but that was all. There was no further information.

So even the most die-hard Yuan fans can't say for sure about his specific family background, they just know it must be pretty good.

The growing online buzz and positive reviews, coupled with the significant increase in viewership ratings, have served as a much-needed shot of adrenaline for the production team. It has somewhat lifted the oppressive cloud that had been hanging over them for days and invigorated both the actors and the creative team, motivating them to work even harder.

After all, there seems to be a glimmer of hope, and the outlook suddenly looks brighter.

…………

In a meeting room on the fourth floor of ** Company building, all 11 members of EXO, who had recently returned to the peninsula from China, along with Ji-seong (who took special leave from filming to attend), were listening to the company's latest arrangements for them.

"Due to the huge success of the re-release of their first album, XO's popularity has skyrocketed. Their fame and sales have far exceeded our previous expectations, so the company has decided to capitalize on this momentum and give you another chance to make a comeback."

After repeated discussions, the company has finalized the latest comeback plan for XO, which is scheduled to launch a brand new winter special album in early December. The album is named "MiraclesDeceber".

This special album will be released in the form of a mini album, with a total of 5 songs. The overall concept is to "make all fans and listeners feel warm even in the cold winter." The title song "December Miracle," collaborated with a well-known European and American composer, is a lyrical song that combines sentimental piano melodies and beautiful orchestral sounds while highlighting popular elements.

Members were all excited upon hearing this. A comeback is a good thing for every group, proving their popularity and value. As artists whose survival relies on exposure and popularity, no one wants to stay home twiddling their thumbs for too long.

Although EXO's schedule is very busy now, the busier they are, the hotter they get. The members can only say that they are in pain but happy.

However, the following words from the company executive announcing the project next made many people's faces change:

“Because the songs on this album are all ballads, after research, the company decided that this time it wouldn't be a full group comeback.”

This comeback features Yuan, D.O., Luhan and Baekhyun, all of whom are vocalists. The company believes they can best showcase the charm of this special album, which focuses on ballads.

"The five songs are recorded in both Korean and Chinese versions. The Korean version was recorded by Yuan, D.O., and

the Chinese version by Yuan, Luhan, and Baekhyun.

The performance stages will be done by these few people, while the other members only participate in promotional photo shoots and MV filming."

All preparatory work has been completed, and the project is scheduled to officially commence the day after tomorrow.

"The detailed work schedule has been sent to your agents. Are there any other questions"

Apart from the few vocalists who were called out, the other members' expressions weren't very pleasant. Park Chan-lyeol and Kim Jong-in expressed it most obviously. After listening, they both lowered their heads and frowned, as if they hadn't heard anything.

Kim Jun Myeon opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something, but in the end, he didn't speak.

Although I'm unhappy and a little confused, the company has made its decision and there's really no room for argument. Even though EXO is incredibly popular right now, they haven't been around long enough to have much seniority.

"Director ni, do I need to participate in both versions of the recording Also, the drama crew has a lot of shooting tasks now, and I'm not sure about singing in December..."

At this point, Chi Jingyuan raised his hand and voiced his question.

"Jiyuan, because you joined the group a little late, the planning department hasn't quite figured out your positioning. Besides being the youngest member, you don't have any specific responsibilities assigned to you."

"And after the company learned about your abilities, they decided that you would be in charge of vocals in the group from now on. Conveniently, the current main vocalist for K team is only D.O.... This comeback is a chance to show everyone what you can do."

"And because of your Xiawen level and considering your popularity in Xia Guo, both versions of the recording require your participation."

We understand your situation, so if you're short on time for filming, you don't have to participate in the singing stage.

"Okay, I understand. Thanks for letting me know."

Chi Jingyuan nodded, without saying anything more.

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First published on the Traditional Chinese Novel Networkor by the impressive Ra who was already successful and dating Kim Tae Hee. Even the solo stages by BIGBANG members like Taeyang, Seungri, G-Dragon, TOP, and their group performance didn't pique his in...