Chapter 37 Final Ranking Announcement

the next day

Usually, after the second act, contestants would retire for rest. But just after 1 AM, while everyone was deep in slumber, alarms suddenly rang throughout the building.

Moans of despair came from many rooms, and some even came out in their boxers, exclaiming:

"What's going on?"

"Is there a fire?"

"It's so early! Help!"

While some tried to continue sleeping, enveloped in their blankets, an announcement resonated in the hallways, "Attention all members, please finish up and gather in the hall within 30 minutes. Everyone must attend."

The announcement, incessantly repeating, felt like a death knell.

At first, most wanted to return to sleep, but five minutes later, the announcement blared again, "Attention all members, you now have 25 minutes to wash up and gather in the hall. Be late at your own peril."

The countdown had begun.

Jian Xingsui abruptly sat up, noticing Ning Ze, who was already dressing.

As Ning Ze dressed, he mentioned, "Wake up Shen Xingchen, it's time to assemble."

Despite feeling groggy, the urgency of the countdown invigorated Jian Xingsui. He quickly got dressed and, after a glance at Shen Xingchen, sighed, "Xingchen, it's time to get up."

The young master acted as if he heard nothing and turned over to continue sleeping.

Left with no choice, Jian Xingsui fetched a wet towel from the bathroom and slapped it onto Shen Xingchen's face.

Muttering a low curse, Shen Xingchen sat up with the damp towel, "Have you two lost your minds?"

As Jian Xingsui took a deep breath, about to reply, the announcement's countdown echoed again, "All personnel, please complete your morning routine and gather in the hall within the next 20 minutes."

Jian Xingsui nudged the young master, "Did you hear that? Hurry up; it's time for assembly."

Waking up in such a mood, Shen Xingchen was fuming, "It's just past midnight! Why the assembly? What kind of nonsense is this?"

His voice was so loud; it nearly shattered the door.

Standing close by, Jian Xingsui felt as though his eardrums might burst, "There must be a reason. Hurry up, or we'll be late."

Shen Xingchen remained unyielding.

As they were deliberating, another announcement resonated in the corridor. This time it wasn't a staff voice but that of the famed Fu Yingdi. His voice was deliberate and gave an ultimatum, "Attention all, five minutes left. Everyone should gather in the hall. No delays tolerated."

As Fu Yingdi's words settled, footsteps began echoing down the corridor.

Now utterly panicked, Jian Xingsui, in desperation, turned to Ning Ze, "Come help me!"

Ning Ze hesitated, "You're not thinking of...?"

Jian Xingsui nodded vehemently, "Let's do it!"

Consequently, as the hall was almost filled and the show's cameramen began their regular shooting, everyone watched as Ning Ze carried a still-sleeping Shen Xingchen on his back, with Jian Xingsui alongside holding their belongings.

"..."

The assembly went silent for a few moments.

quite a while

Someone began to chuckle.

Even the live stream audience erupted in laughter:

"In the middle of the night, Xingchen is just too real, isn't he?"

"Ning Ze looks like a dad, and Suisui on the side, like a doting mother."

"Hahaha, aren't you afraid that Xingchen will wake up and come at you for saying that?"

Due to this comedic scene, the live chat was flooded with comments, significantly increasing the broadcast's engagement.

Once everyone had gathered in the hall, they were directed to board a bus prepared by the production team. Once all were aboard, a mentor up front advised, "Get some rest. We'll wake you when we arrive."

Past midnight, many were still groggy.

Some inquired about the destination, but the mentors only smiled, offering no direct answer.

Shen Xingchen, who was also deeply asleep, was startled when the vehicle halted again. He woke up, slightly baffled, "Why am I on a bus?"

Jian Xingsui, who had been napping beside him, responded with a hint of resignation, "We carried you here."

Before Shen Xingchen could fully comprehend the situation, calls to disembark the bus came from outside.

It was just past two in the morning, shrouded in darkness. Under the streetlights where the bus parked, the gathering of people and cameramen became clearly visible.

Teacher Li announced, "Greetings everyone! We are at Mount Tai, one of the famous Five Great Mountains. Our mission today is to reach its peak before sunrise and behold the splendid vistas of our great homeland!"

"..."

A momentary hush fell over the scene.

No one could have imagined being roused in the middle of the night just to climb a mountain—a truly unexpected turn.

Teacher Li said with a smile, "I knew this would be a surprise! The rule today is: the first to reach the summit will have the privilege of selecting their own song and team for the final performance."

A tantalizing incentive indeed.

Tu Ya, also dressed in hiking gear, chimed in, "Moreover, at every short rest stop, we have prepared cabins. The first team to reach a cabin will find a surprise awaiting them. Give your best in climbing!"

This news injected some enthusiasm into the contestants.

Shen Xingchen's curiosity was piqued, "What kind of surprise, Teacher?"

Tu Ya shook her head, "It wouldn't be a surprise if I told you, would it?"

Given the instructor's cryptic hints, the participants could only explore and find out for themselves. Nevertheless, many were eagerly looking forward to discovering this 'surprise', and their interest was now piqued.

Fu Jinxiao observed their eager faces and calmly stated, "For this climb, teams can be of any size. Form your groups as you wish."

The crowd's enthusiasm soared upon hearing this!

Jian Xingsui mustered some courage to ask, "Does that mean we can form teams with just two or three members?"

Fu Jinxiao nodded, "Yes, that's allowed."

This news was favorable to many. Ever since the second round of eliminations reduced the contestants by half, only 56 remained. After resting for a few days, it hinted at the imminent announcement of the second-round rankings. This round would cut down the numbers by half again, allowing only 16 to proceed to the finals. Bonds of friendship had formed amongst many, and realizing that the mountain climbing event might be their last time together, they all cherished the moments.

When team formation began, Shen Xingchen swiftly told Jian Xingsui, "No need for discussions; the three of us will team up!"

No one raised objections.

Previously drowsy, the group of young men were now fully awake, invigorated and ready.

Shen Xingchen declared, "Charge! Let's seize first place!"

Seeing him dash off with great speed, Jian Xingsui couldn't help but caution him, "Conserve your energy. This isn't a short climb. Don't exhaust yourself too early and struggle later on."

Shen Xingchen scoffed at his words, "You think I can't handle a bit of walking? Who are you looking down on?"

"..."

Ten minutes later,

The arrogant young man sat on a roadside stone stool, sighing deeply, "So exhausting! How is it that we haven't reached the first rest stop yet?"

Along the way, some teams passed them, while others lagged behind due to their slow pace.

Ning Ze, peering through binoculars, noted, "There's a red flag over there. The rest stop might be that way."

Jian Xingsui had been itching to comment earlier, "Ze, where on earth did you get those binoculars?"

Ning Ze replied, "I brought them from home."

Why on earth would you bring binoculars to a talent show recording? Does that make any sense?

Jian Xingsui's flabbergasted expression was captured in its entirety by the camera crew, becoming a humorous highlight for viewers:

"Hahaha, I'm making the same face right now!"

"Ning Ze, what other surprises are you hiding from us?"

"Iron-willed Shen Xingchen."

Jian Xingsui glanced at the climbers below, "We should get moving. If someone overtakes us, we'll miss out on the surprise at the rest stop. Only the first team to arrive gets it, as Teacher Tu Ya said."

Shen Xingchen lamented, "But I really can't move anymore. My legs feel like they aren't even mine!"

Jian Xingsui thought to himself that Shen's statement was stating the obvious.

Who acts so rashly like you? Charging forward without any regard for conserving energy or pacing oneself?

Ning Ze offered, "Want me to carry you?"

Shen Xingchen shook his head, "I'm a man! Since when do men get carried? Who are you underestimating?"

His words nearly sent Jian Xingsui into a fit of laughter.

Jian Xingsui rolled up his sleeves and approached, squatting in front of Shen Xingchen, "Let me help with that."

Shen Xingchen eyed him warily, "What are you up to?"

Jian Xingsui simply adjusted Shen Xingchen's leg and applied pressure to certain points, causing Shen Xingchen to let out a loud wail. His scream seemed to startle birds in the surrounding forest into flight.

Shen Xingchen grumbled, "Be gentle!"

Only then did Jian Xingsui cease his actions, asking, "How do you feel now, better?"

After a brief pause, Shen Xingchen expressed his amazement, "You know, I genuinely feel much less fatigued!"

Jian Xingsui grinned, "That's good then."

The group quickly set off towards the next checkpoint. As they walked, Shen Xingchen asked, "What kind of massage technique was that? It worked wonders! Can you teach me?"

Jian Xingsui replied, "When I was at home, my father and brother were always busy with work, so I learned it on my own."

Shen Xingchen clicked his tongue in amazement, "Never expected you to have such a skill."

Beaming with pride, Jian Xingsui said, "It's a unique method I developed. Others might not get the same results if they tried."

Shen Xingchen playfully punched him, "Stingy! If you won't teach me, I don't even want to learn!"

Jian Xingsui chuckled heartily.

Eventually, their group reached the halfway point of the mountain.

The show's staff, who had been waiting for them, announced, "Congratulations on reaching this point! You're the first team here, so you get a reward. All three of you can head into the cabin to check your current rankings. You also get a chance to do a live broadcast with your fans for three minutes. We've set up the streaming room for you."

The trio was ecstatic.

They hadn't expected such a pleasant surprise.

Shen Xingchen suggested, "You two go first. I'm wiped out and don't have the energy to talk right now."

Ning Ze wasn't in a hurry either. He told Jian Xingsui, "You go ahead. I'm going to grab something to eat. I'm starving."

Left with no other option, Jian Xingsui nodded and went inside the cabin.

The staff had placed an envelope on the table, "This contains your current ranking in the competition. After checking it, you can start your live broadcast on the phone in front of you and interact with your fans for three minutes."

Jian Xingsui responded, "Thank you."

He reached for the envelope on the table. During the previous stage, he had secured third place. This time, he showcased his original song, which demonstrated his talents and even earned him the title of the audience's favorite performer. Given the positive feedback, he anticipated a rise in his ranking.

Upon opening the envelope, the message read: "Congratulations, Jian Xingsui. In this stage, you've secured the 15th position. Well done on making it to the final stage. Keep up the good work!"

The young man stared at the paper for a long time.

All his efforts, sleepless nights, injuries from dance practices, and the sweat he had poured seemed to turn into a cruel joke at that moment. This paper was his reward.

The staff hesitated, "Xingsui?"

Quickly regaining his composure, Jian Xingsui smiled, "Yes, I've seen it. I'll start the live broadcast now."

The staff member could roughly guess what was on his mind based on his expression.

They were somewhat aware of the show's unwritten rules. Not every contestant outside the debut rank could succeed just by working hard. Often, dreams and reality are worlds apart.

The staff member hesitated again, "Xingsui, you can share your feelings with your fans and garner votes for yourself. Also, you need to let your viewers know about your ranking in this stage."

Jian Xingsui nodded as he clicked on the live streaming button. For the first time, he could see the barrage of comments.

When the audience realized it was Jian Xingsui, many became excited:

"It's Xingsui!"

"Oh my god, I stayed up until nearly 3 am, finally got to see you, darling."

"Even though my favorite contestant isn't you, hi there, Xingsui!"

Jian Xingsui greeted everyone with a gracious bow and a smile, saying, "Hello everyone, I'm Jian Xingsui. It's great to see you all."

The comment section was flooded.

Jian Xingsui held up his ranking card to the camera, "This is my ranking for this round. I truly appreciate all your support. I promise to continue doing my best."

His clear ranking appeared on screen, leaving many viewers stunned.

"Am I seeing this right?"

"Is it fifth or fifteenth?"

"Why has his ranking dropped so drastically?"

The shift from third to fifteenth place shocked the viewers, including those who weren't die-hard fans of Jian Xingsui. Not long ago, he was consistently within the top six debut positions. Why did he suddenly drop to fifteenth?

A flood of comments from fans appeared:

"Is it really fifteenth? Did he get the wrong card?"

"How could this be? The fan club poured in millions for voting."

"Why is it fifteenth? My friends, family, and I voted for him with every account we had!"

Jian Xingsui quietly read the barrage of comments.

A staff member reminded him, "You have two and a half minutes left. Anything you want to say to your fans?"

This was a golden opportunity, especially given his drastic drop in rank. A wise choice would be to rally his fans and evoke their emotions.

Yet the young man remained calm. Taking a deep breath, Jian Xingsui smiled and said, "I'm deeply grateful for all your votes. Thank you all."

"If I may, I'd like to ask you not to spend money voting for me anymore. Spend it on yourselves instead – watch a movie or have a nice meal." Jian's words surprised everyone, but he continued, "Use your money for something more meaningful. I'm grateful for your love, but knowing you're living well and happy is all I want."

He knew he couldn't make the debut.

Though Wang often threatened him with the idea of paying a million to drop out, Jian Xingsui knew the debut slots were pre-determined. He wouldn't make it. He lamented the time and money fans poured in, only for it to feel wasted.

The audience was in an uproar:

"Xingsui, what are you talking about?"

"Have you gone mad?"

"It's not wasted money. I wanted to do it!"

However, the more the fans reacted this way, the sadder Jian Xingsui felt. He took a deep breath, not wanting to show his distress, and softly said, "If you have any extra votes, please give them to Xingchen and Ningze. They're both incredibly dedicated and talented. I may not excel in dance or song, but they excel in everything. I hope you can support them."

He knew that he would soon be leaving "Starlight."

Along the way, he had been showered with love and care by many friends. As they parted, this was the only thing he could do for them.

Exiting the cabin, Shen Xingchen and Ningze approached, "How did it go? What's your rank?"

Jian Xingsui only smiled without answering, not wanting to dampen their spirits.

Shen Xingchen grew impatient, "Speak up!"

"It's okay, I've made it to the final round," Jian Xingsui assured, "The exact rank isn't essential. You both should head in; it's your time to interact with fans."

Shen Xingchen and Ningze exchanged glances, with Ningze entering first.

Once inside, Jian Xingsui and Shen Xingchen sat outside in silence. While Xingsui was preoccupied with his thoughts, he couldn't fathom Shen Xingchen's silence.

The atmosphere grew tense.

Jian had always known Shen Xingchen to be carefree. However, now he seemed uncharacteristically silent. Although Shen typically seemed oblivious, it appeared he'd pieced something together at this moment.

A journey together, but all journeys have their end.

Perhaps, they would soon part ways, each walking their own path.

Trying to lighten the mood, Jian Xingsui offered, "Do you still want to learn those acupressure points? I can teach you."

Shen Xingchen snapped back, giving Jian a fierce glare.

With an innocent look, Jian responded, "What's the matter?"

"I don't want to learn!" Shen Xingchen's voice was rough, leaving Jian stunned. As their eyes met, Jian noticed the vulnerability in Shen's eyes and the reddening of their corners.

He had guessed right.

That's why he was silent earlier.

Jian sighed softly, "Alright, no need to learn then."

Shen huffed and mumbled, "Teach me when you return."

Jian replied, "Sure."

"Forget it, I'll be busy practicing dance when I get back," Shen Xingchen seemed to be in denial, almost pressuring Jian for a promise, "Teach me once we form a group in the future."

"..."

He was met with a brief silence.

Shen Xingchen snapped, "Say something!"

Jian Xingsui looked up at him. No words were necessary. Both understood. When Shen Minglang had sent this younger brother to the talent show, it was said to be for tempering his arrogance and disposition. Perhaps after some departures and exposure to the cold realities of the world, the ever-mischievous young master would mature and shed his naivety.

And yet...

Jian Xingsui softened as he met Shen Xingchen's intense gaze, and a gentle smile formed. He nodded, "Alright, I'll teach you."

Soon after, Ningze emerged.

His expression was troubled. Being older, this was his last shot. If the results weren't favorable, he might have to bid the stage farewell forever.

Shen Xingchen stood up, "I'm heading in."

Jian Xingsui reminded him, "Rally votes from your fans. You rank quite high; aim for the center position."

From the day Shen Xingchen entered 'Starlight', he viewed Li Xuan'an as his primary rival, vying with him for the coveted center spot. Their ranks were always close, intensifying their competition.

Shen Xingchen scoffed, "Like I needed you to tell me."

Once inside the cabin, the staff handed him the ranking for his segment.

But Shen Xingchen declined.

The staff, puzzled, heard him say, "I want to know the ranks of Jian Xingsui and Ningze."

Unaccustomed to such a request, the staff hesitated, "We can only provide your rank."

"Fine." Shen Xingchen unfolded his ranking to find he was second. Without a doubt, the first would be either An Ran or Li Xuan'an. Normally, Shen would rally votes against these two whom he disliked. But when the live stream started, seeing the barrage of fan messages, he paused.

Regaining his composure, he greeted, "Hello everyone, I'm Shen Xingchen."

The audience erupted:

"Xing Zai! Mama loves you!"

"Such a big boy!"

"I vote for you every day!"

With a cheeky grin, Shen replied, "Isn't voting for me daily a given? Good taste, sis."

His audacious confidence and amusing remarks always left people both laughing and crying. Yet the audience adored this about him, amplifying their enthusiasm.

Shen Xingchen's laughter faded slightly. The boy who seemed to take nothing seriously now gazed earnestly at the screen. Instead of rallying votes for himself, he said, "I want to garner support for my brothers, Jian Xingsui and Ningze. I'm unaware of their ranks, but if you have spare votes, please consider them."

As the screen displayed Jian Xingsui's rank—fifteenth—Shen Xingchen's eyes darkened.

In the final minute, Shen Xingchen became a bit frantic, "If there are any of my fans out there... can you spare some votes you'd give to me and share them with Jian Xingsui? I don't need to rank too high, I just hope to debut."

This is a young master who always prioritized victory above all.

Growing up, he rarely encountered any setbacks or challenges. He got everything he wanted and felt invincible. Such an upbringing forged a young man who believed he was unbeatable.

His family sent him here to temper his character.

But at this moment, the prideful young master suddenly set aside his ego. He no longer focused on beating Li Xuanan and cared less about his ranking. Holding the ranking card in his hand, he took a deep breath and addressed the audience, "Please, my friends and dear supporters, lend me your aid!"

The live chat erupted in laughter.

Jian Xingsui, seeing many fans in the chat promising to vote for his brothers, couldn't help but smile. He even made a fist salute to the viewers, the tense atmosphere dissipating and turning the stream into a comedy show.

Yet what Shen Xingchen didn't realize was that the feeling of helplessness he currently experienced was his first lesson from the world. And soon, the harsh reality would present his second lesson.