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Chapter 63: Another Masterpiece?

As the theater darkens and the film begins, something immediately stands out. The aspect ratio is wider, more expansive. And these colors... they're a cut above other colored films I've seen.

I lean towards Arthur, curiosity getting the better of me. "The film looks different. New camera tech?"

Arthur nods, a hint of pride in his voice. "We've expanded the aspect ratio. Makes for a better viewing experience."

"It'll definitely boost audience engagement," Ray chimes in, nodding approvingly.

He's got a point. While I'm skeptical this film can top "The Demonfather," I've got to hand it to Arthur - his technological innovations are impressive. This new camera and its wider ratio... it's something to keep an eye on.

My thoughts are interrupted as the film's logo fades and a woman's voice fills the theater. "The world is changed. I feel it in the water. I feel it in the earth. I smell it in the air."

An elf, no doubt about it. Her narration continues, introducing the rings of power given to three elves, seven dwarves, six men, and the three demons.

Then comes Sauron's introduction, and I'll be damned if it doesn't grab my attention. Maybe there's more to this film than I thought...

***

(Arthur POV)

Throughout the screening, I can't help but steal glances at the Lava Brothers. Their reactions are like an open book, and it's a story I'm eager to read.

At first, they're all curiosity and polite interest. But as the film progresses, their expressions run the gamut. Gone is the skepticism, replaced by genuine engagement. They're not just watching; they're experiencing.

I see them lean forward during tense moments, grin during lighthearted scenes. When Frodo, Gandalf, and Aragorn face challenges, the brothers are right there with them, silently cheering them on.

Two hours fly by, and as the credits roll, I turn to gauge their final reaction. The transformation is stark. These aren't the same men who walked in expecting a disappointment. Their faces are serious, almost reverent.

Ray and Fart exchange a look before turning to me, their expressions intense. "Name your price, Mr. Morningstar," Ray says, his voice urgent. "We'll do anything to acquire the rights to your film!"

I can't help but chuckle. This is more than I could have hoped for. "Well," I begin, savoring the moment, "let's discuss terms, shall we?"

Fart nods eagerly, his eyes bright with excitement. "The film is fantastic. I can't wait to see how other races react, especially the humans!"

"It's certainly better than 'The Demonfather,' no doubt!" Ray chimes in.

I chuckle to myself. Back in my old world, that statement would've sparked endless debates. Here, though? Ray's just stating facts. The fantasy elements and magic in "Lord of the Rings" resonate more with this world than "The Demonfather's" focus on guns and mob politics.

We move to a private room, the brothers still gushing about the film. Once settled, the mood shifts to something more serious.

"Let's talk numbers," Fart begins, leaning forward. "We're prepared to offer 5 million up front for the distribution rights in the Morningstar Kingdom."

I raise an eyebrow, impressed but not showing it. "Go on."

Ray jumps in. "Plus 60% of the box office earnings. We'll handle all marketing and distribution costs."

"And," Fart adds, "we're willing to discuss potential sequels. Same terms, locked in now."

I lean back, considering. It's a generous offer, more than I expected. But I can't appear too eager.

I nod, a smile playing on my lips. "That's a strong start. I see you're upping the upfront payment and taking a bigger slice of the box office this time around?"

Fart leans back, a wry grin on his face. "We've learned from the past, Mr. Morningstar. 'The Demonfather' earned us a pretty penny, sure, but in hindsight? Giving up that much of the box office share was... well, let's just say we've had some regrets."

I can't help but laugh. "Regrets? Didn't you want to help revolutionize demon cinema?"

Ray chuckles, shaking his head. "Of course we did. But watching that 30 million roll in from the kingdom alone and knowing what could have been? It stings a bit, you know?"

I appreciate their honesty. It's refreshing in this business. "Fair enough. Now, about international distribution... I've hit some roadblocks with studios abroad. Lots of doubt floating around. You mentioned having connections?"

Fart and Ray exchange a look before Fart speaks up. "We've got a few strings we can pull. Whitlock Pictures, one of the big six human studios in Empirica, for instance."

I hold up a hand. "Empirica's covered. Bryan Brothers is handling that. I'm more interested in Evros, South East Anatolia, East Watch, and the Eden region."

The brothers' eyes light up at this. Ray leans forward, suddenly more interested. "Now that's an interesting market. We might be able to help you there."

Fart nods, his expression serious. "Those regions are tough nuts to crack. They're especially skeptical of demon productions. 'The Demonfather' helped a bit, but overall? The industry still looks down on us."

"They even believe 'The Demonfather' will be the first and last good demon film," Ray adds, shaking his head. "We were starting to believe it too, until we saw this masterpiece you've just made."

I nod, understanding their perspective. "Breaking our bad reputation isn't easy, but I assure you, things will be different with Arthur Morningstar in the demon entertainment industry."

A few hours ago, Ray and Fart might have scoffed at such a bold statement. But after watching "Lord of the Rings," they can't help but feel there's truth to my words.

Ray leans forward, his tone genuine. "Your film 'The Demonfather' alone inspired so many demon filmmakers. Now, with another masterpiece coming? It'll definitely inspire even more."

I can't help but feel a surge of pride at his words. It's one thing to believe in your own vision, but to hear others starting to believe too? That's fulfilling.

***

Days after striking a deal with the Lava Brothers, the entertainment industry's buzzing with news of Hellfire Studio's latest project. Newspapers and magazines are filled with speculation about what I've cooked up this time.

One newspaper catches my eye: "One-Hit Wonder, Exiled Prince Arthur, Secures Deal with Lava Brothers. Is Lightning About to Strike Twice, or Will This Be His Final Bow?" The article goes on to question whether I can replicate the success of "The Demonfather" or if I'm just riding on past glory.

A well-known demon magazine chimes in: "Lava Brothers Claim Hellfire Studios' New Film Surpasses 'The Demonfather'. Has the Heat Gone to Their Heads?" The piece speculates that the Lava Brothers might have been suckered into a bad deal, questioning their judgment and my ability to deliver.

These doubts and mockeries roll off my back. Let them speculate. Let them doubt. The film will speak for itself when it hits theaters.

As I set the papers aside, I can't help but smile. They have no idea what's coming. "Lord of the Rings" isn't just going to meet expectations - it's going to shatter them.

Let them talk. Soon enough, they'll be eating their words.

In the meantime, the group of fresh graduates I've hired are proving invaluable to the computer project. With their help, George and I are making significant strides. At this rate, we might have the world's first computer with a monitor and keyboard, capable of coding in assembly, within two or three months.

Our research is conducted in utmost secrecy, hidden away in a secure room. The chemicals and minerals we're working with are no joke - some are potentially carcinogenic, others might cause respiratory issues or worse if mishandled. We take no chances, donning full protective gear before entering the lab. We look like a bunch of paranoid doctors, but better safe than sorry.

As I survey the busy group, I can't help but feel a mix of satisfaction and anxiety. I'm extra strict about security protocols. No one leaves without decontamination, and outside contact is severely limited.

I know these kids should be grateful - I gave them jobs when no one else would. But gratitude only goes so far. I can't risk our work leaking out, no matter how unlikely it seems.

Watching them work, I remind myself that this isn't just about creating a computer. It's about revolutionizing an entire world. The stakes are too high for complacency.