Fang Yihua observed both bosses' reactions. Her expression remained calm, yet her mind was rapidly calculating every move. The sudden threat of "not letting her be elected" was only the beginning; she had already prepared the rest of the strategy.
Li Haohe's eagerness confirmed her accurate assessment of market enthusiasm, while Run Run Shaw's silence was a crucial signal—the fact that this TVB authority didn't immediately reject the idea meant there was room for maneuver. The opportunity was right before their eyes.
"The technical aspects aren't a problem," Fang Yihua said, taking a half step forward and lowering her voice to ensure every word reached the two of them clearly. She spoke at a steady pace, with the calmness of a precision instrument.
"First, the judging weighting is cleverly placed. The [In-depth Q&A] segment has always been a testament to intelligence. We can hint to the judging panel ahead of time that this year's focus is on the contestants' novelty of response and depth of perspective. Liu Rumeng's experience is limited, and her responses may seem immature. If the judges ask more about obscure social issues or philosophical debates, her sharp and eloquent speech might become a disadvantage—appearing frivolous and lacking composure. Other contestants with unique perspectives can legitimately surpass her in this segment."
"Secondly, we could add new sections and set new challenges. To address public concerns, we've temporarily added a 'Public Welfare Vision Explanation' section to the finals, which will be counted towards the overall score. Contestants will be required to propose a specific and feasible public welfare plan and explain the details on the spot. The judging criteria will emphasize 'pragmatic feasibility' and 'budget planning'. Liu Rumeng is said to have recently arrived in Hong Kong from mainland China and may not be familiar with the local livelihood issues. This section will allow contestants with deep roots in the community and thorough research to shine, but it can also cause Liu Rumeng to 'accidentally' lose points for a 'vague proposal'."
Finally, there's a minor on-the-spot rule adjustment for the swimsuit segment. Traditionally, demeanor and stage presence are the primary criteria. However, we can add a temporary scoring criterion: 'rhythm and unique charm of the steps.' The music will be changed to a more modern, unrestrained piece. Liu Rumeng's temperament is more aloof and ancient, and under the modern demands of unrestrained passion and enthusiasm, her steps may seem a bit stiff and rigid. If a contestant has a background in Latin dance, for example, and a gait that is passionate, generous, and unrestrained... this subtle difference in "unique charm" can make a real difference within the "extremely strict and reasonable" standards.
Every point mentioned in this statement is wrapped in the sugar coating of "fairness and justice", but the core is a poison pill with precise sniping. Fang Yihua even considered the aftermath:
"After the competition, TVB should immediately praise Liu Rumeng's "stunning performance" and "sensational effect," emphasizing that the "depth and pragmatism" displayed by the new champion in the newly added segments are the future spirit of Miss Hong Kong. The media focus will naturally shift to interpreting the legitimacy of the competition results, and the controversy and topic will only increase. The public's attention to the professionalism of the Miss Hong Kong pageant will far exceed the question of which young master is crazy about her."
Run Run Shaw's hand unconsciously caressed the window frame. The cool touch calmed his chaotic thoughts. Fang Yihua's plan was like a butcher's butcher, each stroke slicing through the finer points of the rules, disguising "backroom manipulation" as "standard optimization." He loathed this scheme, yet he couldn't deny its astonishing potential—it could avoid the stigma of "predetermined selection" while simultaneously thrusting the Miss Hong Kong pageant into the spotlight... provided the news didn't leak. When had this woman become so... powerful?
Li Haohe could no longer contain his excitement. "Great! Absolutely great! Mona! This way, everyone will study the in-depth nature of our new rules, and it'll be a huge topic! As for the risks..." He looked at Run Run Shaw, his voice pleading with eagerness. "Run Run, as long as we operate cleanly, our reputation will only rise! Miss Hong Kong will be transformed into an international hot topic!"
The sunlight from the window stretched Run Run Shaw's silhouette. He stared for a long time at the massive neon sign beneath the TVB building. For the past two or three decades, TVB's foundation has been star-making, not star-destroying. Mona Fong's plan was like walking a tightrope on the edge of a cliff; any misstep would lead to destruction.
But...if it succeeds? Miss Hong Kong will no longer be just a Hong Kong event; it will become a global hot topic, a carefully planned national carnival...is this a greater ambition? Or the beginning of destruction?
He didn't nod, nor did he flatly refuse. Finally, Run Run Shaw slowly turned around, his deep gaze moving from Li Xiaowo's eager face to Fang Yihua's calm, almost cold eyes, and finally landing on the huge TVB logo in the center of the office.
He just uttered a word in a low voice: "Let's talk about it later."
The light in Li Xiaohe's eyes dimmed instantly, and he wanted to argue eagerly: "Run Run! The opportunity is fleeting..."
Run Run Shaw raised his hand, silencing his next words. The gesture carried an undeniable force. He no longer looked at anyone, turning to face the window, leaving behind only a silhouette as immovable as a mountain. He needed time, a more thorough consideration of this double-edged sword.
Fang Yihua lowered her eyes, but the corners of her mouth curled up ever so slightly. She knew that when this tough boss didn't immediately reject her proposal, or even angrily rebuke her for her "heresy," but instead said "let's discuss it again," the subversive seed in her heart had already taken root deeply in this seemingly hard soil.
The air in the office seemed to freeze. Li Ka-shing rubbed his hands anxiously, Fang Yihua waited for the development of the situation, and under Run Run Shaw's silence, a storm surrounding rules, enthusiasm and manipulation had silently gathered on the top floor of TVB.
Downstairs, Liu Rumeng and other beauties were taking their first steps toward the center of the stage, completely unaware that the scales of fate had been quietly tipped higher.
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