Chapter 26

After a series of troubles, the opening sequence of the reality show was finally completed.

Gordon: "Although it didn't turn out as well as I had hoped, ... well, it'll have to do."

Robin: "If I don't make do, I won't be able to continue. I can't hold on any longer; my muscles can't stay stiff anymore." —— looking completely drained

Gordon: "You can't even last this long at your young age? You're really useless."

Robin: "This long? We've been shooting for three hours straight. Even professional bodybuilders can't endure this kind of torture." —— complaining

Gordon: "Do you think I wanted to shoot for this long? Ha, it's all because of your poor performance and the numerous NGs. It's just a 15-second opening sequence, and it took so much effort from me, the chief director. I'm the one who should be complaining."

Robin: "15 seconds? It takes at least two minutes to show all my sponsor logos. Is 15 seconds enough?"

Gordon: "It's enough, it's enough. Hand over those two minutes to the post-production team, and they'll speed it up and edit it down to fit into the 15-second opening sequence. No problem at all." —— not worried at all

I (voiceover): "That would have to be sped up to eight times the normal speed to meet the standard. Can the audience watching on TV see clearly?"

Robin: "Speed up and edit? The audience won't be able to see the logos clearly. Will the sponsors be satisfied?"

Gordon: "I have additional post-production measures to ensure the sponsors are satisfied. Don't worry about it."

Robin: "Oh, that's good." —— casually agreeing, not realizing the issue

Gordon: "It's getting late. That's it for today. Wrap it up, everyone." —— shouting to the entire crew

Robin: "Wait a minute, Chief Director, what are these 'additional measures' you mentioned? Can you tell me now? I need to be mentally prepared." —— finally catching on

Gordon: "It's to have you wear the same costume and participate in the main episodes of the reality show to increase your exposure..."

Robin: "Wear the same costume in the main episodes? What am I, a mascot? Are you going to keep playing me like this?" —— dissatisfied

Gordon: "What mascot? Your costume isn't a Mickey Mouse suit. You're the male lead in the reality show, the most important supporting role." —— starting to persuade

Robin: "Don't lie to me. I'm just a helper. How can I be the male lead?" —— full of disbelief

Gordon: "Why not? You don't know my 'filming' habits. I love using helpers and extras for these roles." —— telling the truth

I (voiceover): "Being a helper or an extra in this organization is a high-risk job."

Robin: "You're just trying to avoid responsibility. This isn't a male lead; it's just a minor role."

Gordon: "It's really not a minor role. Your position in the show is secure; you won't be easily replaced."

Robin: "I don't want to do it. I'm not a masochist. It's not fun to be treated like a monkey."

Gordon: "Heh heh heh, you don't know what this reality show is about yet." —— being mysterious

Robin: "Oh? The production team finally has a direction? Did you find a screenwriter?" —— sarcastic

Gordon: "What are you talking about? The direction for the reality show was decided long ago; I just didn't tell you."

Robin: "Bullshit! I've been helping out in various departments of the production team and have become somewhat familiar with everyone. Is it possible that I wouldn't hear a single rumor? Is everyone in the production team keeping secrets from me alone?" —— disbelieving

I (voiceover): "It's because you're not part of their organization, an outsider. It's not surprising they kept it secret from you."

Gordon: "They thought you already knew, so they didn't tell you... Anyway, let me get straight to the point. This production team's reality show is about super heroes fighting against organized crime, criminals, and social ills to uphold justice, promote bravery, and foster positive social values." —— continuing to persuade

Robin: "... Can this reality show pass the approval of the State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television? Will it be banned from TV after it's made?"

Gordon: "Of course not. This is a show that promotes the main melody. The experts from the State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television approved it immediately after reviewing the proposal. If you don't believe me, here's the approval number (xxxxxxx), which will be added to the opening sequence." —— showing Robin the approval number

Robin: "Our production team actually got the approval number from the State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television before shooting the reality show?" —— surprised

Gordon: "Don't you know I have a wide network of connections and know many capable people? Didn't Dent tell you?"

Robin: "He did mention that... So this reality show is really about super heroes? And I can play the male lead as Mr. Wayne's assistant?"

Gordon: "Yes, it's a fact. What do you say? Will you do it?"

Robin: "I'll do it!" —— gritting his teeth

Gordon: "That's settled. Come early tomorrow. You and Wayne need to meet the camera crew for the on-location shooting, share your experiences, and build mutual understanding. They will be your important support during the on-location shooting, providing various kinds of assistance and protection. The success of the reality show depends on how well you work together." —— the final push

Robin: "Yes, Chief Director." —— excited and enthusiastic

I (voiceover): "Young man, don't be so excited. This old man is leading you into a fire pit. You'll regret it if you set your expectations too high."

The next morning, at the GCTV building, in the meeting room of the "nijia-yeye" production team, Wayne, Robin, and the camera crew were all present.

Gordon: "Alright, everyone's here. I have an announcement. Following the suggestion of the experts from the State Administration of Radio, Film, and Television, the temporary name 'nijia-yeye' is officially abolished from today. 'Professional Superhero' will be the official name of the reality show and the production team."

Robin: "Phew~ (sigh of relief), finally a proper name." —— quietly

"Clap clap clap" —— only Jonathan and Dent clapped, while everyone else remained unresponsive

Gordon: "Why isn't anyone clapping? Clap, everyone!"

Kent: "Ah." —— clapped twice

Brid: "Yes~" —— clapped once

Jordan: "..." —— pretended not to hear

Dent: "..." —— nervously watching this group of oddballs, afraid the situation might get out of control

Wayne: "Let me introduce myself first. I'm Wayne, the male lead of the reality show. It's nice to meet everyone. I hope we can work together well and make this reality show a success. Some of you here may not have met me in person. Don't be nervous; the richest man in Gotham is just an ordinary person and won't eat any of you." —— easing the awkwardness

I (voiceover): "Taking the responsibility for the cold silence on himself? Wayne's reaction is pretty quick."

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