Chapter 416

"Empress" had a modest box office opening but received overwhelming critical acclaim.

Major film review sites unanimously awarded it a stellar 4.8 rating, stunning the industry.

"Scarlett Ashcroft's commanding presence as the ruthless empress is breathtaking!"

"From obscurity to the throne—this is how a true female lead should be written!"

"The battle scenes are so realistic they gave me chills!"

Social media exploded with organic praise from viewers.

Sophia Laurent and Lucas Sheridan's team didn't even need to spend on marketing—the film dominated trending topics effortlessly.

Beyond Scarlett Ashcroft's brilliant performance, the veteran actors' portrayals also sparked heated discussions.

The biggest surprise was Adrian Valdemar's redemption arc.

Previously, Adrian was Hollywood's notorious "pariah."

Divas antics, cringe-worthy acting, plastic surgery rumors...

Damian Valdemar's controlled media outlets had spent years smearing him.

Without a PR team, Adrian could only defend himself online, drowning in troll attacks.

Netizens mentioned his name with scorn and mockery.

"Get out of Hollywood!" flooded his social media comments.

When "Empress" announced Adrian's casting as the young marquis, Lucas Sheridan's fans revolted.

But Lucas stood firm.

Now, Adrian's performance left audiences stunned.

"This is the same Adrian who couldn't act his way out of a rom-com?"

"He completely brought the spoiled-then-brilliant young marquis to life!"

"Who said he had a plastic face? Those close-ups are flawless!"

"That final battlefield glance? Chilling perfection!"

Lying in bed scrolling through reviews, Adrian couldn't suppress his grin.

The taste of an underdog victory? Sweet.

Meanwhile, Damian Valdemar glared at his phone screen, face darkening.

Valdemar Entertainment should've been his inheritance, yet Sebastian Valdemar controlled it.

His years of sabotaging Adrian were meant to destroy the bastard.

Ideally driving him to suicide.

But now...

Damian clenched his fists, eyes flashing with venom.

He wouldn't let Adrian rise.