If I were to travel back to 1987 and find myself in the situation you described, as Lin Xingchen, here's how I would navigate the challenges and advance the plot through puzzle-solving and dialogue:
Initial Discovery and Adjustment
Upon realizing I'm a rural child adopted by the wrong parents and facing an arranged marriage to an "old man" for my biological daughter's sake, I would first gather as much information as possible about my situation. I would use dialogue to understand the motivations and backgrounds of my adoptive parents and the old man, as well as my biological daughter's circumstances.
Confronting the Adoptive Parents
After returning home and discovering the heartless and unjust nature of my adoptive parents, I would devise a plan to teach them a lesson. This could involve solving puzzles to uncover evidence of their wrongdoings or using clever dialogue to expose their true nature to the community. The goal would be to empower my biological daughter and ensure her safety and well-being.
Journey to Zhou's Home
Embarking on the journey to Zhou's home, I would prepare myself mentally for the challenges ahead. Upon arrival, discovering that Zhou is not an old man but a handsome guy, and that there are two children at home, I would need to quickly adapt my strategy.
Navigating the Zhou Household
To become the hostess of the Zhou family, I would need to build a relationship with Zhou and his children. Using dialogue, I would learn about their needs and desires, and through puzzle-solving, I would find ways to contribute to the household and prove my worth. This might involve solving household problems or finding ways to improve their living conditions.
Dealing with Rivals and Obstacles
Facing a love rival and the mean Mrs. Wang, I would use my wisdom to navigate these relationships. I would engage in dialogues that highlight my strengths and the benefits I bring to the family, while also solving puzzles that might reveal secrets or weaknesses of my adversaries. My goal would be to win over Zhou and the children, and to neutralize the threats posed by Mrs. Wang and my rival.
Shaping the Future
Throughout this journey, I would be constantly making choices that shape the future. Each puzzle solved and every dialogue choice would influence the direction of the story. My ultimate aim would be to create a future where my biological daughter and the children of the Zhou family are safe and happy, and where I can find my own place and happiness within the family.
By using my intelligence, empathy, and problem-solving skills, I would navigate the complexities of this time-travel scenario, ensuring a positive outcome for all involved.