The entertainment industry in China, while being the fastest growing across the world, was nowhere close to the peak. Due to the powerful influence wielded by the Western superpowers, China previously had no space to grow into, and was left floundering for footing among waves of competition.
Although China was now a top-tier powerhouse, the situation in the entertainment industry was still far from optimistic. China had only recently discovered new niches to latch onto, and had yet to gain a firm foundation. Therefore, most of its cultural needs, such as tv shows, movies, and songs, were imported from other countries.
And while China struggled to compete in every industry at once, only one significant foothold had taken root, the MOBA, LOL, which had become one of China's most famous exports.
This was why Miaoyi decided to release her new single on the international platform iTunes. She felt she had gained a strong enough domestic foundation, that she could begin to create the second pillar of Chinese culture in the Western world, along with LOL.
Since she chose to make electronic music, she couldn't confine herself solely to the domestic market. Moreover, this was only the first step, merely the beginning.
Soon, the comments and posts about Miaoyi's explanation of "Gokuraku Jodo" and "Seve" attracted people's attention.
When the new Weibo post was released, all the fans were astonished.
"Princess, How is it that I recognize what all those words mean individually, but am still confused by your explanation?"
"Holy moly, does this mean there's a new song? How can you be so prolific?"
"I bet all other new producers are crying on a toilet somewhere."
"This obscure twenty-eighth-tier producer feels depressed. Not only are you more attractive than me, but you also work harder and create better songs! I'm lemon-flavoured, so sour."
"So, you mean Princess composed these songs when she was bored, came up with new ideas, and even choreographed them?"
"Seems like it. These two songs make me curious. What's the deal with the combination of the Swahili language and hymns? And what's the deal with 'Gokuraku Jodo'? The title alone gives off a strong sense of adolescent fantasy."
"Wait a minute... The key point is not these things, but... if the LPL loses, TMY might postpone the release of these two songs, right?"
Miaoyi's recent explanations and commentary left the fans feeling disheartened. They didn't know if they were overanalyzing, but the general sentiment was that their excitement had quickly turned cold.
After all, even many non-LOL players or casual gamers knew about the situation in China's LPL region... Seven years without a championship was no joke. The best result they had achieved so far was runner-up, and in esports, only champions represented glory.
Hence, the chances were extremely slim...
However, the enthusiasm and anticipation of the fans had already been aroused by Miaoyi. For them, what truly captivated their attention were those three letters: TMY.
In just two months, this delicate and charming girl had proven to the entire Chinese electronic music scene with countless actions that any song bearing these three letters would undoubtedly be an extraordinary masterpiece!
Just as Miaoyi finished posting her explanation on Weibo, her phone vibrated, indicating an incoming call from a very... persistent number. Glancing at the display, it was from a certain "Song Ziyin."
Without hesitation, Miaoyi calmly rejected the call. Not for any particular reason, but simply because it was from "Song Ziyin."
In Miaoyi's eyes, this lady was terrifyingly skilled.
Ever since their first encounter and as they got to know each other more, Miaoyi had made up her mind to be on guard against this person. She even wanted to drag her into a girl group. What kind of heist operation was this?
And regarding this matter, Song Ziyin wasn't joking around! Almost every time they met, she would ask Miaoyi about it, making Miaoyi question her life choices.
Why was Song Ziyin so persistent about pulling her into a girl group?
However, every time Miaoyi asked Song Ziyin about this question, she only received a mysterious smile and three words: "It's a secret."
Ring ring ring~
Despite being hung up on so swiftly, the phone continued to ring persistently, and as the call was declined again, it rang almost instantly afterwards.
Miaoyi reluctantly picked up the phone. "Hello? Now I know you want me to join your girl group, but haven't I said no already? Besides, aren't we good partners already?"
"..." there was a moment of silence from Song Ziyin's end, and then she said, "Why are you in such a hurry? I haven't even told you the purpose of my call yet... I just wanted to ask if you have plans for a new song. I saw your Weibo, and it's making quite a buzz."
"Oh, that... It's a secret," Miaoyi hummed, calmly responding. Although she did announce it, she was still quite hesitant overall. "Let's talk about it when we win. After all, who knows the outcome? Right now, iTunes is more important to me than anything else. I just hope it won't be a one-day adventure on the charts."
"Well, good luck. Unfortunately, I can't help you with that," Song Ziyin could only say.
If it were any other matter, Song Ziyin could offer some assistance, but this matter was different. Miaoyi was about to step out of the country, and even if Song Ziyin had a good career development, there was one realistic aspect to consider. Once she went international, no one would know who this so-called Dream Girls captain was.
"By the way, why have you always wanted me to join your girl group? You know, I'm a producer and DJ, not a dancer or singer. I have my own specialties," Miaoyi silently complained about certain things and suddenly asked a question that had been asked many times before.
Regarding this question, Miaoyi had asked Song Ziyin many times, but no matter how many times she asked, she never received an answer. Instead, Song Ziyin would persistently invite her.
"To be honest, the answer to this question is quite simple. I could tell you, it's not a big deal, but I have a request now. Consider it a favour for inviting me to your performance this time. How about it?" Song Ziyin didn't directly refuse to answer this time but spoke with a smile. "Don't worry. I'm not asking you to join us directly."
"What's the request?" Miaoyi couldn't help but ask.
"I know you have a temporary deal for studio space, but I was wondering if you wanted to make it your permanent studio instead." Song Ziyin immediately suggested. She didn't mention Miaoyi joining their team but instead focused on the studio.
"I can agree with that," Miaoyi replied without hesitation. Without thinking about it, if it was just this request, there was no harm in agreeing. Besides, Miaoyi and Song Ziyin were already quite familiar with each other. Just that Song Ziyin appeared at her debut performance was already a repayment of a favour.
At that time, Song Ziyin didn't ask for monetary compensation; she simply requested a favour.
"Alright, I'll set up my studio at your place. Now, can you satisfy my curiosity? Tell me, why are you so persistent in wanting to recruit me into your group?" Miaoyi couldn't hold back her curiosity.
Once or twice would have been fine, but Song Ziyin's frequency and eagerness were a bit unusual, and it was understandable that Miaoyi found it strange.
"Well, then I'll tell you." Song Ziyin finally achieved her wish. Although she didn't directly recruit Miaoyi, it was still progress, and she was satisfied. "Here's the thing: Riot-Korea's official announcement has had a bounty posted for three years. I don't know if you're aware of it. This bounty is not for ordinary players; it's specifically for electronic musicians and idol girl groups worldwide. They're openly recruiting..."