Chapter 108: Audition in America

The Latest Chapter of "The Tycoon Superstar"...

Upon receiving a notice from Director Wang Zhang, on the seventeenth day of the lunar new year, Rong Qing officially embarked on her journey to the United States.

At Los Angeles International Airport, Rong Qing, clad in a pink trench coat, had just stepped off the plane when she saw a group of fans holding banners, waiting eagerly. She had never imagined receiving such warm welcomes from overseas Chinese and Chinese Americans in the U.S. During the toughest moments in her life, it was these fans whose encouragement and support kept her moving forward.

“Are you Miss Rong Qing?” a Chinese man in a suit with a broad collar stepped forward.

“Yes. And you are?” Rong Qing removed her glasses and sized him up. It seemed she didn’t know anyone here in America.

“Hello, I was sent by Director Wang Zhang to pick you up. The hotel is arranged; I’ll take you there now.” Saying this, he quickly handed her his business card and led the way to a waiting car not far from the airport.

Originally, Huo Lingtian had arranged everything in the U.S.—food, lodging, and transportation all planned meticulously. Not wanting to disappoint Director Wang’s hospitality, Rong Qing accepted the offer. The car slowly cruised down Los Angeles Avenue, where towering skyscrapers and modern architecture lent the city an air of mystery. The splendid scenery, the grandeur of the metropolis, the fusion of hustle and tranquility, and the dazzling coastal cityscape—all painted a vivid picture. The streets bustled with vivacious American girls, emblematic of a society that cherished freedom and individuality, allowing her to experience the unique local customs and culture.

“Miss Rong, here is the hotel key. If you have any needs or want to explore Los Angeles, feel free to contact me. Director Wang said there’s an audition at the Central Theater at 3 p.m. Please don’t be late.” The suited man respectfully handed her the key and drove away.

She drew aside the thick curtains that blocked out the sunlight. The street scene unfolded before her eyes—blonde-haired, blue-eyed American women swayed gracefully, various languages intertwined in conversation. In this land, she felt the clash and exchange of cultures. Ah, this is America—a country of freedom and democracy, yet fiercely individualistic.

Her heart unconsciously stirred with the environment’s vibrant spirit, but she always remembered this was not her home. This unrestrained life, devoid of a sense of security, was far from what she desired. She tidied her luggage and once again reviewed the character she was to portray in the drama.

Iris, a strong and towering woman rivaling men, possessed both feminine charm and masculine vigor and dominance. To embody this role, the key was to balance three parts fragility with seven parts masculinity. She was no soft woman; she upheld a nation, creating an invincible legend, liberating women from bondage and restraints—not just through intellect, but more importantly, through a resilient physique and masculine courage. Perhaps her beauty was a fatal attraction, but it was her fierce aura that made her stand out. Rong Qing was adept at displaying charm, aloofness, even intelligent pride, but she always lacked that touch of dominance.

Her brows furrowed—how could she acquire a man’s dominance? Instantly, Huo Lingtian’s deep, unflappable eyes appeared in her mind—a commanding presence radiating from within. When he stood among crowds, people couldn’t help but be drawn in. Then came his furious expression: when truly angry, his face remained impassive, unruffled, as if he could hold up the sky itself. Yet the sheer pressure he emanated was enough to shatter anyone’s inner defenses.

She concentrated, recalling Huo Lingtian’s restrained demeanor, letting the quiet strength seep through her. A few moments of insight surfaced, yet she knew she was still far from the level the role demanded.

“Ugh! There’s no other way,” Rong Qing’s beautiful eyes were filled with helpless surprise. She had studied countless classic films and experimented with various female archetypes—cunning, pure, lively, cute, even seductive—all within her grasp. Yet the masculine dominance of a woman was something she had never mastered. She smiled faintly, though her eyes sparkled with challenge and excitement.

Dressed sharply in denim, a light-colored shirt paired with a bronze vest and matching Martin boots, she looked every bit a stunning beauty from a Western tribe, especially if she added a vintage cowboy hat. Her hair was braided into neat plaits, dark locks resting on her chest. Once a dazzling Eastern beauty, she now transformed into a retro horsewoman of the frontier.

At the Central Theater, the waiting room was already filled with many actors. Among them were numerous well-known domestic stars coming to audition. Although the international megadirector Evans preferred an Eastern beauty, several American celebrities also showed up to support. The entire reception room buzzed with star power, a testament to the influence of this Hollywood titan.

Every actor’s attire was different. The famous American actress Wendy wore a vintage cowgirl outfit similar to Rong Qing’s, though she was older, exuding less youthful sharpness and more mature allure.

“Hello, ‘Blessed by Time’,” the renowned Hollywood star greeted Rong Qing warmly, her glamorous and enchanting smile full of charm.

“Thank you!” Rong Qing exchanged a few words with her. Having experienced the darker side of the domestic entertainment industry, the friendliness and kindness of American stars brought her genuine joy.

Looking around at some Chinese actors, it seemed they hadn’t quite grasped the temperaments of the international director, dressing in glamorous gowns. Why did auditions always attract those who didn’t understand the situation? Meanwhile, a few compatriots waved cheerfully like chattering magpies. Rong Qing’s face betrayed an awkward smile. Could she pretend not to know them? Could she?

The audition began swiftly. Watching American superstar Wendy, with her long, golden hair and confident stride, enter the audition room, Rong Qing noticed a sudden burst of applause and some strange sounds. When Wendy emerged, she wore a faint smile but had lost her usual composure. Under the attentive gazes, she sat on the sofa, head bowed in frustration, muttering under her breath.

Heh… what a spirited woman!

Seeing the greatest competitor appear defeated brought a sense of relief to the other actors. Yet Rong Qing thought differently. A few had auditioned, none had moved the panel. Applause rang out repeatedly, suggesting the international star’s skill was unmatched, though perhaps something unexpected had happened mid-performance, leaving her unsatisfied.

Rong Qing did not relax; instead, she grew more cautious. Some say when you love someone to the extreme, you become like them. Then, Lingtian, could I truly embody your dominance?

Soon, it was her turn. She took a deep breath, facing this formidable challenge for the first time. “Come on! Give it your all!” she urged herself, stepping into the audition room.

Time seemed to rewind a year—to when she was a young girl, full of dreams and fighting hard. At the judging panel were three people. Sitting slightly aside was Director Wang Zhang, with his close-cropped hair and furrowed brows. In the center sat the international megadirector Evans—an elderly foreigner with white hair and gold-rimmed glasses.

“Rong Qing, we meet again,” Evans slowly lifted his head. Even behind glasses, his black eyes sparkled like the brightest stars in the sky. His voice came gently, like an old friend long acquainted.

Rong Qing smiled, surprised that their brief encounter years ago had earned the director’s recognition. “Thank you.”

“Choose any scene from the script and perform it. When you’re ready, start,” Evans instructed.

Rong Qing was momentarily startled but remained composed. If anyone could grasp Iris’s essence, it was her—the early days of hardship and punishment in the wild continent. The brutal, merciless struggle and the fragile, humble heart of a woman.

She nodded to the director and moved to a corner of the room. Suddenly, she collapsed to the floor in agony, her face pale, lips cracked with bite marks leaving traces of blood. Her body curled into the most vulnerable, insecure posture. Her dry hands hung limply on the ground, attempting to rise but bound by iron chains that held her captive. Her white nails dug deep into the dirt, stained with bruises and blood, her body marked by wounds.

Her cracked lips whispered in hoarse tones, “Wuwu... wuwu...” Her disheveled hair framed eyes flickering with unyielding spirit. She wanted to escape—flee this demonic place. Using her last strength, she screamed and clawed at the shackles behind her, pushing forward to search for the only light that sustained her.

In this desperate plea and struggle, the last trace of mercy in her eyes extinguished. An icy, ruthless shell enveloped her fragile body. Days and nights of torment transformed her, ultimately unleashing a relentless and honed murderous intent.

“Clap, clap, clap...” Applause filled the room as she finished the scene. The three judges looked on with satisfied expressions, generously showing their praise and approval.

“You did very well. But next, please have a duel with the warrior beside me,” Evans said.

Rong Qing looked at a man standing by the window, dressed in sportswear. He approached and tossed her a wooden sword. She stood dumbfounded, still processing, as he took his stance.

Rong Qing: “Wait, you want me to fight you?” Seeing his serious expression and perfect stance, her thoughts drifted. “Is this really happening? Right?”

“Please,” he said, charging at her wielding the wooden sword. With a powerful strike, “Bang!”—the sword in her hand was knocked away. She stood there pitifully, the wooden sword pointed at her.

“Again!” the man raised an eyebrow, striking a casual pose. The more swagger, the more swagger!

Damn it, again?! Her inner fire exploded fiercely. “If I don’t show some backbone, will you think I’m Hello Kitty or what?!”

With that, she braced herself for battle.