Eunuch, do you really know these martial arts?

Polar photography?

What a brilliant plan!
It is a remote and inhospitable place with extreme environments and poor communication.

Any accident can be easily attributed to harsh natural conditions.

If he had truly met with misfortune in the Arctic Circle, it's likely his body would have been impossible to recover, ultimately becoming just another tragic news story in the entertainment industry about a dedicated actor's unfortunate death.

Director Carlo Lee was still immersed in the excitement of artistic creation and did not notice the turbulent undercurrents beneath the calm surface.

He enthusiastically discussed with the screenwriter the use of polar lighting and the fit between the characters' states of mind.

Jiang Nian tapped her fingertips lightly on the smooth tabletop.

Although he knew it was dangerous.

But he couldn't show it, otherwise they would find out.

He thought for a moment and then spoke slowly.

“Mr. Charles’s proposal is very constructive.”

Jiang Nian spoke, his voice steady and without the slightest hint of abnormality.

“Extreme environments can indeed inspire extreme performances. However, as I just said, physical fitness and security are the primary prerequisites.”

He shifted his tone slightly, asking seemingly casually, "I just wonder, in which specific region is the research station that Xinghan Capital is cooperating with located? And can the equipment support keep up with the filming needs of a large-scale film crew?"

"After all, we are carrying not only actors and cameras, but also a lot of sophisticated equipment."

This question is perfectly reasonable.

This is a perfectly normal consideration of the feasibility of filming by a responsible creative team.

Charles's blue eyes remained smiling: "The main partners are the Lesson region in the archipelago and several sites near Lissat."

"The infrastructure there is relatively complete and has a certain capacity to receive guests. As for equipment transportation and support, Mr. Jiang need not worry. Xinghan Capital has also invested in polar logistics and can mobilize icebreakers and heavy helicopters to ensure everything goes smoothly."

Jiang Nian's sneer inwardly deepened.

It would have been fine if he couldn't say it, but the fact that he did say it means that they had indeed been planning this for a long time, or even considered it a long time ago.

We're just waiting for him to take the bait!
These places are not only remote, but also have relatively unique legal jurisdictions and military presence, making them ideal locations for carrying out covert operations.

"It sounds like they're very well prepared."

Jiang Nian nodded slightly, not pursuing the matter further, and instead appeared to be persuaded.

"If the medical assessment and security plan are approved, I am personally willing to push the limits for art."

Upon hearing this, Director Carlo Lee was overjoyed and exclaimed repeatedly, "That's wonderful! Jiang, your professionalism is truly admirable!"

Charles also smiled with satisfaction.

Jiang Nian smiled.

The other party has already cast the bait, just waiting for him to bite.

His best option was to decide to play along.

The script reading continued.

Jiang Nian, along with Carlo Li and the screenwriters, engaged in in-depth discussions about character motivations and dialogue rhythm, seemingly unaffected by the earlier interlude.

He even offered suggestions for making several of Morpheus's action scenes more intense and aesthetically pleasing, which made Carlo Lee nod repeatedly, exclaiming that he had found a kindred spirit.

Charles remained silent most of the time.

He only occasionally chimes in when it comes to large-scale productions and budgets, fully playing the role of an investor who supports the creative process while controlling costs.

But Jiang Nian could sense that beneath that seemingly calm gaze lay scrutiny and assessment.

The reading session lasted for nearly four hours before it ended.

Everyone got up and moved around, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

"Jiang, your understanding amazes me."

Carlo Lee patted Jiang Nian on the shoulder, showering him with praise, "I have a feeling that Morpheus will become a landmark villain in film history."

"It was the director and screenwriter who gave the characters their souls; I just tried my best to present them."

Jiang Nian responded modestly, his gaze inadvertently sweeping over Charles, who was answering a phone call by the window.

Despite the distance and the noise in the conference room, Jiang Nian's master-level hearing still managed to pick up a few blurry fragments of words.

Confirm itinerary, test equipment, ensure guest experience...

Charles had his back to everyone and spoke calmly, but those few keywords carried a different meaning in Jiang Nian's ears.

guest?

Is it him?
What to experience?
After hanging up the phone, Charles turned around, his face still bearing that impeccable business smile: "Carlo, Mr. Jiang, I just received news that our laboratory has recently made some technological breakthroughs in maintaining human function in low-temperature environments. Perhaps these can be applied to this polar filming to further improve safety and filming results. If you two are interested, I can arrange a visit."

Again!
The organization's tentacles are indeed everywhere!
And it always provides convenience at just the right time.

Carlo Lee was clearly very interested in these technologies.

"Oh? What kind of technology is it? If it can reduce the actors' suffering in the freezing cold and ensure their performance, that would be exactly what we need!"

Charles explained with a smile, "It's a new type of thermoregulation fiber and intelligent environmental adaptation system. It's still in the testing phase, but the results are remarkable. Of course, this requires Mr. Jiang's cooperation in conducting some basic data collection and adaptation tests."

The blame was once again placed on Jiang Nian.

Jiang Nian looked at Charles and smiled.

"Mr. Charles and Star Capital have really put a lot of effort into this movie, even using laboratory technology that has not yet been released."

"I am flattered by this sincerity."

He paused, then continued, "However, regarding the collection of body data and the testing of new equipment, I need to consult with my private doctor and security team."

"After all, as you know, after that unpleasant incident, I have to be more careful about my own safety. I hope you can understand."

A fleeting hint of displeasure flashed in Charles's eyes, but it was quickly masked by an even wider smile: "Of course, of course I understand! Safety first."

"We can fully disclose all details of the relevant technologies and tests, and accept evaluation from professionals designated by you. Xinghan Capital has always acted with integrity and transparency."

"That's good." Jiang Nian nodded. "I look forward to seeing the detailed technical solutions and evaluation process."

After the meeting, Jiang Nian declined the invitation to dinner, citing the need to rest, and left by car under the protection of bodyguards.

Sitting in the back seat of a speeding car.

Jiang Nian closed his eyes to rest, his mind rapidly processing the information he had acquired that day.

Charles, or rather the organization behind him, is becoming increasingly clear about his intentions.

He was lured into the game with lucrative contracts and top-tier projects.

The assassination attempt during the signing ceremony was a test and a warning.

We suggest shooting in the polar regions to create an excellent shooting environment!

Under the guise of providing new technologies, they intend to obtain his physical data, and may even directly tamper with the testing equipment.

Interlocking steps, each one more pressing than the last!
They seemed eager to send him to the Arctic and were unusually concerned about his physical condition.

Was it because his strength, which he displayed at the underwater base last time, made them wary, and they wanted to confirm his recovery status? Or was there some kind of device or plan in the polar regions that they could only activate with the help of a specific environment?

Jiang Nian opened his eyes, a cold glint flashing in them.

He couldn't just sit and wait to die, no matter what!

Return to the villa.

He immediately contacted Bai Yongxu.

“Charles proposed filming in the polar regions, and he also intended for me to test new technologies.”

Jiang Nian gave a concise report on the situation.

On the other end of the phone, Bai Yongxu's voice suddenly became serious: "Polar laboratory... We did monitor several high-tech laboratories there that are associated with Xinghan Capital. The level of secrecy is very high. We had always thought they were conducting routine polar equipment or energy research."

"Now it seems that it may very well be a cover for the organization."

"They are in a hurry."

Jiang Nian added, "It seems like they're in a rush."

"There are two possibilities."

Bai Yongxu analyzed, "First, the organization has a time-sensitive plan in the polar region and needs to use this filming as cover. Second, they judged that your injuries had not healed, and this is the best window of opportunity to deal with you."

"Or, both."

Jiang Nian said coldly.

"Help me find out the truth."

“It’s already underway,” Bai Yongxu said. “We will utilize all available resources. Jiang Nian, are you sure you want to continue?”

"It's not too late to back out now; we can come up with other excuses."

“It’s too late.” Jiang Nian shook his head. “They’ve already made their move. If I back down, it will only make them realize that I’ve been alerted, and they will take even more unpredictable actions.”

He needs to feign weakness to lure the enemy out.

"I understand."

Bai Yongxu was silent for a moment, then said, "We will fully cooperate with you. What do you need?"

“Two things.” Jiang Nian was prepared. “A physical assessment report that is convincing enough to fool people, and several trustworthy experts in polar survival and reconnaissance who will join the team as private security personnel or crew members.”

"The report is fine, it can be ready within a day. As for manpower... the Dark Blade team has just finished their rest and recuperation. They are experienced in various environments and can be assigned to you."

Bai Yongxu paused, "I feel more at ease having Youhun and the others with you."

Jiang Nian felt a warmth in her heart.

The Dark Blade Squad is a true elite.

Bai Yongxu has emptied his pockets to support him.

"Okay. Have them come in batches under different identities, so as not to arouse suspicion."

"Understood. Be careful in everything."

After hanging up the phone, Jiang Nian walked to the window and looked at the deep night outside.

In the following days, Jiang Nian strictly followed the doctor's advice, staying at home and declining all unnecessary public appearances.

Even during subsequent online discussions with Carlo Lee, she occasionally revealed signs of exhaustion.

He had the two young men, A-Jie and Xiao-Min, whom Wei Zheng had found, also begin working as studio assistants.

Charles, as expected, couldn't hold back any longer.

After Wang Lei inquired about Jiang Nian's health for the third time and subtly mentioned that preparations for the polar filming had already begun and time was running out, Jiang Nian finally understood the situation.

Jiang Nian felt that the time was almost right!
He had his private doctor provide a detailed medical assessment report, and then personally met with Charles and Wang Lei.

“Mr. Charles, Mr. Wang, these are the latest medical assessment results.”

Jiang Nian pushed the report over, her tone carrying just the right amount of regret and a hint of weariness.

"The situation is more complicated than expected. The old injury has not been completely healed. The doctor strongly advised that I must avoid extreme temperature environments, high-intensity exercise, and any factors that may cause internal energy imbalances for the next three months."

Charles took the report and read it very carefully.

The report was flawless, with detailed data and clear conclusions. Anyone who read it would believe that Jiang Nian was indeed in poor condition at the moment.

Wang Lei's face showed worry: "Teacher Jiang, what... what should we do? The polar filming plan..."

Charles put down the report, frowned slightly, and pondered.

"Mr. Jiang's health is of course the top priority. However, the production team has already started preparations, and many resources have been allocated to the polar regions. Changing things at the last minute would result in huge losses, and we might miss the best window of opportunity for filming during the polar night."

He looked at Jiang Nian and said sincerely, "Mr. Jiang, is there any room for negotiation? Or, could we ask a top medical expert for a consultation?"

"Xinghan Capital can contact the rehabilitation center..."

Jiang Nian shook his head with a wry smile, "I appreciate Mr. Charles's good intentions. But several authoritative experts have already consulted on the case, and their conclusions are consistent."

"Given my condition, forcing myself to take the risk would have unimaginable consequences. I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to complete the filming and would also suffer permanent damage."

His attitude was resolute, yet he also appeared helpless, perfectly portraying the image of an actor who yearns for a role but feels powerless to fulfill it.

Charles stared at Jiang Nian for a few seconds.

A moment later, Charles gave a helpless smile, leaned back slightly, and accepted the fact.

“I understand. Nothing is more important than the health of artists. In that case, the polar filming plan... will have to be put on hold for the time being.”

"I'm sorry to have put Mr. Charles and Mr. Wang in such a difficult position," Jiang Nian said, expressing his apology appropriately.

"Mr. Jiang, there's no need for that. No one can predict accidents."

Charles waved his hand, quickly regaining his composure. "Then, we need to put the alternative filming locations on the agenda as soon as possible. As for Carlo, Mr. Jiang may need to personally communicate and explain things to him."

“That’s natural.” Jiang Nian nodded.

The meeting ended in a somewhat somber atmosphere. Charles and Wang Lei needed to deal with the mess caused by the change in plans.

Jiang Nian sat in the conference room and did not leave immediately.

He tapped his fingers lightly on the table, savoring Charles's final moments of relaxation.

Something's wrong! Something is wrong!
How could the other party, having gone to such great lengths to set up this trap in the polar regions, possibly give up so easily because of a single medical report?

This is not in line with the organization's operating style.

Unless...they have a new plan?
Or perhaps the polar regions weren't the only option, but merely a preferred choice?

A slight smile curved the corners of Jiang Nian's lips.

It seems this show is far from over.

He took out his phone and sent a encrypted message to the ghost:
"Plans have changed, so be vigilant. Closely monitor all new faces I come into contact with, especially those in medical, security, and technical roles on set."

He wanted to see how his opponent would play next in this game.

And how will this seemingly disadvantaged pawn stir up the storm and turn the tables? (End of Chapter)