Full-time Artist Chapter 1326: Lin Yuan's donation was exposed

~13 minute read · 3,144 words
Previously on Full-time Artist...
After a grand red carpet event and fiery online anticipation, the Blue Star Music Hall hosts a major showdown between two renowned musicians. Qin Zhen, a master symphonist, takes the stage first, performing his extensive four-movement symphony "To the New World." The audience and critics are left in awe of its scale, complexity, and historical narrative, with many deeming it a masterpiece. As the intense performance concludes and the debate rages about whether "Xianyu" can surpass it, Lin Yuan (Xianyu) takes the stage, but to everyone's surprise, without a conductor.

It appears Qin Zhen has truly been defeated...

While the initial movements of Lin Yuan's symphony might not have immediately clarified the outcome, the progression to the third and subsequent movements left no room for doubt.

Such is the overwhelming power of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony.

This masterpiece, also recognized as the 'Choral Symphony,' stands as the pinnacle of Beethoven's compositional career, marking the grand finale of his musical journey.

It's hardly an exaggeration to say Qin Zhen was utterly outmatched.

Even Lin Yuan himself would likely remain under the colossal shadow cast by this work for years to come.

This was his ultimate trump card; even if he possessed other symphony creations of comparable caliber, surpassing this monumental piece would be an immense challenge.

Yet, the question remains: given Qin Zhen's status as the foremost figure in Blue Star's music scene, what other move could he possibly make?

Without producing this particular symphony, Lin Yuan himself would have lacked the absolute certainty of victory.

At this precise moment.

On location.

Amidst a tidal wave of applause, fervent discussions erupted!

"He won!"

"There was hardly any suspense involved!"

"It's the most flawless melody I have ever had the pleasure of hearing!"

"Never before has a symphony resonated with me on such a profound level."

"Who could have possibly predicted such an ending?"

"I had anticipated a closer result, perhaps a fifty-fifty split, or even a sixty-forty in Qin Zhen's favor. But the outcome has unfolded entirely differently."

"Everyone!"

"Today, we have personally witnessed the emergence of a new sovereign in the music industry!"

This grand confrontation.

There were no official judges present.

Neither Xianyu nor Qin Zhen seemed to warrant such a designation.

The ultimate verdict rested entirely on public perception and acceptance.

And at present, the public appeared to have reached a unanimous decision.

The sentiment at the venue mirrored that of the online viewing rooms:

"The outcome is undeniable!"

"Long live Father Fish!"

"This composition is utterly flawless!"

"No other word can adequately describe its perfection!"

"Simply put, damn it, it's incredible!"

Truly awe-inspiring!

The atmosphere in the venue at this moment.

Attendees were rising to their feet.

The eruption of applause persisted.

Some voices began chanting the name "Xianyu."

Since his debut, Lin Yuan has been known in the music world under the alias "Xianyu."

For devoted music enthusiasts, the name Xianyu evokes a deeper connection than Lin Yuan's given name.

It was akin to how avid readers consistently perceived Chu Kuang as the true identity of Lin Yuan.

At this juncture.

The host, An Hong, made his entrance onto the stage.

"We have extended an invitation for Teacher Qin Zhen to rejoin us on stage."

The applause gradually subsided.

All eyes turned towards Qin Zhen as he emerged from backstage.

The expression on the face of this musical world's 'demon king' was tinged with a complex mix of emotions.

Perhaps a hint of regret...

Perhaps a sense of acceptance...

Perhaps a touch of melancholy...

And perhaps a flicker of genuine joy...

As he took his position on stage, Qin Zhen extended his hand towards Lin Yuan.

Lin Yuan responded with a slight smile, clasping the offered hand.

This simple gesture seemed to signify a moment of transition and the passing of a torch.

Only when their hands parted did An Hong speak: "Mr. Qin Zhen, do you have any words you'd like to share?"

Qin Zhen responded succinctly: "I hold great admiration for Mr. Lin Yuan's composition. It evoked a profound sense of spiritual resonance within me."

An Hong then turned his attention to Lin Yuan: "And what about you, Teacher Lin Yuan?"

Lin Yuan managed to suppress his smile: "It was a genuine honor to experience Teacher Qin Zhen's creation just now. It ranks among the most exceptional artistic achievements in my personal estimation."

Neither artist resorted to flowery language to elaborate on the other; instead, their concise statements conveyed mutual respect and acknowledgment.

These few simple sentences effectively conveyed the unspoken understanding between the two titans.

This was the exchange between the established monarch and the rising star.

Following the conclusion of the musical showdown at the Central Continent Music Hall, the music charts were promptly updated that same evening.

As expected, there were no surprises.

The top position on the charts was now officially occupied by "Lin Yuan."

Consequently, Qin Zhen, who had previously held the number one spot, was now relegated to second place.

However, despite being an anticipated shift, observing this exact turn of events still stirred a sense of profound emotion in many.

Because of this singular achievement.

Lin Yuan had now secured the premier position across three distinct artistic domains: literature, music, and dance!

This was not merely an individual triumph; it represented a groundbreaking phenomenon for the entirety of Blue Star!

Even after ascending to the apex of the music charts, Lin Yuan found himself compelled to navigate a gauntlet of reporters and enthusiastic fans upon arriving at his company's premises.

Nevertheless, certain professional obligations still required his attention.

Towards the end of May.

Lin Yuan's specially crafted solo album for Chen Zhiyu was officially released.

In a remarkable display of popularity, the album achieved the number one spot on the seasonal charts in a mere ten minutes!

The collection featured ten songs, including standout tracks such as "Soaring into the Distance," "Beneath the Fleeting Clouds," "A Misstep in the Flower Garden," "A Thousand Years Hence," "Moonlit Serenade," and "To See Again."

Its immense appeal.

Its timeless quality.

It possessed every attribute of a chart-topping success.

It is unfortunate that despite the album's rapid ascent to the top, its spotlight was entirely eclipsed by the Xianyu Second Symphony.

There was no other way.

Lin Yuan had previously conquered Qin Zhen using Beethoven's seminal masterpiece.

Under such circumstances, no matter how popular the solo album produced for Chen Zhiyu might be, its fame could never rival that of such a symphony.

However, Chen Zhiyu himself held no objections.

To have an album released at the month's end and reach the summit in a mere ten minutes was already a monumental achievement. This astonishing speed record for topping charts had never been achieved by anyone else in the Fish Dynasty!

Unfortunately for that record,

it was shattered after only ten days.

This occurred because, at the dawn of June, Lin Yuan's solo album for Sun Yaohuo also made its debut.

The title track of this new album, christened "A Thousand Miles Away," took a mere five minutes to propel the entire album to the pinnacle of the seasonal charts!

Indeed.

The album also featured "Broad Seas and Sky," a stirring anthem perfectly suited for Sun Yaohuo's style.

It's worth noting that Sun Yaohuo had performed "Broad Ocean and Sky" in his earlier years, specifically the version by the Xin Orchestra.

The rendition Lin Yuan offered this time was the beyond version.

Furthermore,

Lin Yuan also included "Love Call Transfer" on Sun Yaohuo's album.

And shortly after the entire Fish Dynasty community acquired the album,

Lin Yuan made an announcement via his personal blog:

"The seventh album of the Fish Dynasty was rendered by yours truly."

Instantly.

The world erupted in excitement!

As the reigning number one in the global music scene, Lin Yuan's inaugural solo album was guaranteed to electrify audiences worldwide!

Yet, amidst this global fervor,

Lin Yuan's own spirits were somewhat subdued.

This was due to a phone call he received.

Wei Shujing's daughter contacted him with somber news: Wei Shujing had passed away.

The conductor he held in the highest regard had succumbed to cancer.

Wei Shujing's daughter conveyed, "Teacher was still listening to your symphony right before he passed..."

That very night,

while Lin Yuan was in the recording studio laying down tracks for a new album, his eyes welled up as he sang a particular lyric:

"Beyond the pavilion,

along the ancient path,

Fragrant grass meets the azure sky.

The evening breeze whispers through the willow flute;

Sunset on the mountains,

the horizon fades.

At the edge of the world,

half-strangers meet.

A jug of aged wine brings fleeting joy;

Let us not dream tonight,

of a thousand threads of longing.

With a glass of wine,

and the flute's lament,

I ask you, when will you depart?

Do not linger when you arrive..."

The song itself was titled "Farewell."

And this album, too, was bestowed the name "Farewell" by Lin Yuan.

It served as a tribute to Wei Shujing.

Even with the system's notification that he had completed his latest lifespan task, it offered little solace.

Then, as mid-July approached,

Lin Yuan's album was released, and in less than a minute, this collection of songs surged to the top of the seasonal charts. Some streaming platforms even experienced near-system paralysis due to the overwhelming demand.

Concurrently,

listeners were presented with the full tracklist of Lin Yuan's new album.

Track one: "Farewell."

Track two: "Snail." Track three: "In the Name of the Father." Track four: "King of Karaoke." Track five: "The Hills." Track six: "The Lonely Brave." Track seven: "Youthful Blue Star Speaks." Track eight: "Listen to Mother." Track nine: "Nineteen." Track ten: "I Once Contemplated a Hundred Times." Notably,

the song "Youthful Blue Star Speaks" was an adaptation of an earth song with the same title –

it was originally composed and performed by Xu Song as "Youth China Talk," sung by Zhang Jie.

The track "Nineteen" was adapted from the timeless anthem by the Uranus superstar –

Andy Lau's "Seventeen."

The lyrics for Andy Lau's "Seventeen" were inspired by his personal experiences.

Lin Yuan's "Nineteen" similarly drew from his own life experiences on Blue Star.

This was because Lin Yuan vividly recalled his debut at the age of nineteen, and all the events from that period remained remarkably fresh in his memory...

On this particular day,

at the Qinzhou Art Institute,

within the bustling canteen,

Lin Yuan, Xia Fan, and Jian Jian occupied a secluded corner for their meal.

Unbeknownst to the surrounding patrons, these three celebrated stars, who had emerged from the very same academy, were quietly dining together.

A change from days past, the cafeteria now featured music during meal times. Melodies filled the spacious hall, with some students even humming along:

"At nineteen, I sought to earn, joining the challenge's fray.

Qinzhou's newcomer season, those days remain so vivid.

I recall when 'Father Yang' and 'Mother' first met.

Later, the protagonist's rise was swift, almost overnight.

The fans at my debut concert were incredibly fervent.

Come, lend an ear to my love song, the lyrics are etched in classic verse.

My vibrato and falsetto, already mastered with ease.

Yet, love songs always seem to flow,

much like me..."

Do not conceal your countenance,

Allow the passers-by to see.

Though singing your heart out,

Infuse your very soul into this emotional melody.

Sing love songs,

Once more.

Forever cherish the thunderous applause that fills the sky,

Return to singing love songs from the very beginning.

If love runs deep, a few tears are almost unavoidable,

The dynamics rise and fall, the tempo shifts, each song embodying a different facet...

A familiar voice.

This is the track "19 Years Old" from Lin Yuan's latest album.

As the song played, Lin Yuan, Xia Fan, and the third person exchanged smiles, the past moments flickering before their eyes.

Sioux City.

Sun Yaohuo's concert.

He sang with all his might on stage.

"Should I shed this heavy shell and seek the azure sky? To float gently on the soft breeze, letting the past wounds fade without pain?

I aspire to ascend step by step, awaiting the sun's gentle gaze, my small sky holding grand dreams, embraced by this heavy shell, I softly look upward.

I am destined to climb higher and higher, soaring towards the summit on the edge of a blade.

Let the wind dry my tears and sweat, for one day, my own day will dawn."

The song is titled "Snail".

An uplifting piece found on Lin Yuan's recently released album.

He concluded the performance.

Sun Yaohuo's eyes glistened with unshed tears.

In a live broadcast studio.

Chen Zhiyu was broadcasting live.

"The cool morning dew kisses the black dress, and the stone pathway echoes with whispers of a father..."

After the rendition,

Chen Zhiyu offered a wry smile, "You truly put me to the test. This song, 'In the Name of the Father,' is the most challenging on the new album. Without his unique touch, it's nearly impossible for anyone else to capture its essence."

A question appeared in the chat:

"What's your rating for this song?"

"It's the pinnacle of popular music. You might find it peculiar upon first listen, but I assure you, with repeated plays, its brilliance will unfold. It possesses remarkable longevity and depth. Even a decade or two from now, you'll still appreciate it wholeheartedly."

At home.

Zhao Yingchrome, nestled comfortably on the sofa, wore headphones.

Within the headphones.

A voice emerged, singing the sole Chu language track from Lin Yuan's new album.

The song's title was "I Have Considered It a Hundred Times".

Unbeknownst to herself.

Zhao Yingchrome's eyes welled up with tears.

Her agent nearby couldn't help but inquire with concern, "Why are you suddenly crying?"

"What should I do?"

This strong-willed young woman, who had grown increasingly audacious and self-assured in front of the delegates, now found herself shedding tears like rain amidst blossoms:

"I think I might be falling for him."

In a hotel suite.

Jiang Kui, having just finished an announcement event, sought to alleviate his exhaustion by turning on his phone.

A song began to play.

It was "Common Appreciation of Elegance and Popularity".

As the song reached its crescendo, Lin Yuan's voice was delivered with a languid, almost casual air: "They said to compose a love song suiting both the refined and the common masses..."

Jiang Kui let out a small smile.

How many songs truly managed to appeal to both the sophisticated and the general populace?

Conversely, the lyric, "Able to grace the hall and proficient in the kitchen, much like the girl I've longed for," resonated deeply.

Jiang Kui cupped her face, lost in contemplation.

The girl who could manage both societal graces and domestic duties, perhaps that described her?

After all, she could prepare a perfect egg yolk dish.

Lucky Sister hummed along with her niece.

"Over the rolling hills..."

"Though my hair has turned white..."

As they continued their song.

Lucky Sister felt an increasing sense of contentment.

This was one of her favorite tracks from the new album.

Through this song, Lucky Sister felt she could grasp the sentiment it conveyed.

It was the profound freedom attained after achieving enlightenment.

She was, in fact, older than the songwriter.

Yet, frequently, upon listening to a song crafted by the songwriter, she felt the artist possessed a weathered wisdom, their thoughts far exceeding her own maturity.

Across the internet.

Individuals from diverse backgrounds.

In varied locations.

Were immersed in music.

Listening to the same album.

"Youth harbors its own wild spirit, its heart ablaze like the midday sun, making it impossible to deter my pursuit. Currently, I am that singular young soul..."

"Are you quite puzzled, young one..."

"Who declared that a hero must stand bathed in light..."

"I had presumed that my sincere intentions in singing would earn your greater affection..."

"Beside the ancient thoroughfare, beyond the solitary pavilion..."

Within the album's comment section.

On the blog of the renowned wheelchair user.

Discussions about him and his album were ubiquitous.

"Salute to Father Fish."

"An eternal deity."

"He is as flawless as these songs!"

"One listens and is captivated."

"We openly mocked being fans, yet ended up adoring him for so many years."

"His latest song, "I Thought of You a Hundred Times", had me in tears. Is this for real?"

"Nobody is born powerful; even Daddy Yu has moments where he feels like giving up."

""In the Name of the Father" is truly a masterpiece!"

"Daddy Yu has delivered countless masterpieces, yet he continues to surprise us even today."

"The ultimate masterpiece has to be "The Hill."

"Who says only those in the spotlight are heroes? These lyrics truly resonate with the soul."

"I love that era depicted – the young man's strength, the rise of Blue Star, his boundless talent!"

"Speaking of talent, "Farewell" is brimming with it. It makes listeners' eyes blur. From melody to lyrics, it's a genuine masterpiece."

After sharing a meal with Jian Xia Fan, Lin Yuan discreetly departed from Qinzhou Art Academy.

Their visit remained entirely unnoticed.

En route back, Lin Yuan's phone rang; it was Jinmu.

"Did you catch the news?"

"What news?"

"Volley has been apprehended."

"Apprehended?"

"Financial misconduct. He was taken in today, captured by numerous reporters eager for interviews. I'll send you the details."

The call ended.

Lin Yuan examined the news article Jinmu had forwarded.

The headline proclaimed: "Former Tribal Prince, Ling Kong, Arrested for Financial Crimes!"

A video accompanied the report.

Ling Kong was seen being escorted away by authorities.

Prior to his departure, reporters had surrounded him, bombarding him with inquiries, many of which centered on Lin Yuan.

Initially, Ling Kong refused to engage.

However, perhaps overwhelmed by the persistence, Ling Kong's composure finally broke:

"Lin Yuan, Lin Yuan, Lin Yuan! Can you people stop uttering his name in my presence? He's your deity, not mine!

A flawless character?

A great artist?

Ha! Is he truly that magnificent?

If he were so extraordinary, why do so many suffering souls in this world remain unseen by this so-called God?

Ah.

I suppose I'm being accused of moral coercion.

That's likely your response.

But even if he doesn't intervene in global affairs, couldn't he at least contribute a small donation, right?

Some on the internet are discussing the immense wealth accumulated by Chu Kuang and Xianyu, yet no one probes into his charitable contributions.

I'm just a commoner, prone to showing off, but even my displays involve donating millions to charity over these past few years!

Where is your god?"

This was Ling Kong's final public statement.

Following these words, he was taken into custody, his release date uncertain.

Yet, his pronouncements ignited a significant online debate.

Some asserted that Ling Kong deserved his fate.

Others felt Lin Yuan was wrongly targeted, caught in a web of alleged moral blackmail.

A segment of the populace argued that a