A few days later,

All segments were mostly prepped, and the show "Er Gong" was about to commence its official recording.

Jian Xingsui's team had already changed into their outfits in the dressing room and were waiting backstage. Being the only creators' team for this edition of "Er Gong", they garnered significant attention. Their rivals, led by Shen Xingchen, were highly formidable.

Shen Xingchen's dance skills were impeccable, and his stage persona had a fiery wildness to it. Every performance of his nearly rocked the entire venue. This time, shedding his customary cool, dominant leather jacket, he wore an outfit as pristine as a prince's. His entire aura seemed transformed, exuding an air of aloof nobility that sent fans screaming in frenzied excitement.

Zhou Xun remarked with admiration, "This kid really has something special."

Li Xu'an watched intently, "Our competitors this time are very strong."

Beside them, Jian Xingsui gently covered his mouth, trying to stifle a cough.

An Ran expressed her concern, "Xingsui, are you alright? You've seemed unwell these past days. If you feel too off, discuss with the production crew. We can't afford any accidents during the shoot."

Zhou Xun too cast a worried glance.

Truth be told, Jian Xingsui had been full of surprises over the past few days, especially when deciding the song selection. The team was initially divided, but then, as the vice-captain, Jian Xingsui presented a modified song, stating, "This is the final version. We don't have time for changes."

It was a terrible rendition, visibly displeasing.

However, by noon, Jian Xingsui casually introduced another version, asking, "I made some adjustments based on this morning's feedback. What do you think?"

In contrast, though the new version wasn't perfect, it received unanimous approval.

After all, it wasn’t as outrageous as the first.

Only Zhou Xun knew that Jian Xingsui's second version was premeditated. This slight manipulation effectively resolved the issue, motivating everyone to rehearse diligently for today.

But as the primary charge of this stage, Jian Xingsui often worked through the night, running himself ragged. He had been running a slight fever since yesterday, raising concerns.

Zhou Xun asked, "Have you taken your fever medicine?"

"I took it this morning," Jian Xingsui cleared his throat, "I can't take more now. The medication has side effects, and I fear it might distract me on stage."

You've truly given your all for this performance.

A thought that simultaneously emerged in the minds of his teammates.

Yet, for some inexplicable reason, Jian Xingsui's vigor seemed to fortify their spirits. They were destined to win; victory was inevitable.

From ahead, Teacher Li’s voice echoed, “Next up, we welcome the Composition Group to the stage. They present to us ‘Glimmer’!”

The audience burst into applause.

Their excitement was palpable:

"Glimmer! I've been waiting for so long."

"I’m quite excited."

"Wonder how it'll be."

Jian Xingsui took his place on stage, bathed in the glow of countless spotlights. Eager faces in the audience looked on, and nearby sat the mentors, with Fu Jinxiao positioned in the center. All eyes were on them. It was his stage, potentially his final appearance on "Stardust", and perhaps his last performance under Fu Jinxiao’s watchful gaze.

The fever made his head throb. His body felt much heavier than usual. The intense dance and training had seemingly drained all his strength. Every aching muscle felt like it was pulling at every nerve. Standing there was perhaps his utmost limit.

But he couldn't falter.

This was the stage he’d poured his heart and soul into; it was the culmination of all his hopes through countless days and nights.

The music of “Glimmer” flowed gently from the speakers. Muscle memory took over even before his mind could register, all the endless rehearsals aiming to perfect these few moments onstage.

"In the darkest night, are you walking alone…"

"On the lonely path, is there someone by your side…"

Li Xuan’s soulful voice set the stage, accompanied by an elegant ensemble, showcasing everyone's collective effort to the audience.

"I want to use this moment to introduce myself," An Ran sang, her voice tender yet crystalline, "I am the joy, the glimmer by your side."

The stage was bathed in lights, displaying a rotating azure starry sky to the audience – tranquil and captivating.

As Jian Xingsui and An Ran switched positions, he murmured, “In these dim days, I want to introduce myself too. I am, I am that sigh you passed by without a second glance.”

The serene melody submerged everyone into its depths.

Jian Xingsui's voice was raspier than before, some in the audience noticed. Yet, his hoarse tone paired with the lyrics of “Glimmer” gave an oddly harmonious feel, making it even more mesmerizing.

"Who am I, and yet who am I not?"

Just when everyone assumed it was a ballad, Jian Xingsui changed his position, and Zhou Xun's voice, lofty and resonant, shattered the calm, sending shivers down the spine:

“Look up and see, see my burning passion.”

"Look up and see, see me burning all I have, offering this faint glow to you."

The stage backdrop swiftly changed from a serene blue starry sky to a vast and majestic sea of crimson stars, expanding like flames. Emerging from the haze created by dry ice, Li Xu'an leaped forward, with a raw, throaty voice complementing Zhou Xun's pitch, elevating the audience’s emotion yet another level: "Perhaps I'm just a flicker, but I wish to shine brilliantly for you..."

But the tone shifted dramatically when An Ran continued, his voice melancholic and soft, bringing back the somber mood: "I'd rather be hurt, even if I get wounded, just to shine an endless glimmer for you..."

From lyrical to explosive, the dynamics and transitions of "Faint Glow" were astonishingly captivating.

A sudden eruption of applause and cheers echoed from the audience below. The live chat was also flooded with comments:

"Incredible!"

"I've got goosebumps!"

"The lyrics, composition, choreography... All masterpieces!"

Yet the surprises of "Faint Glow" were far from over. As the initial half of the song concluded, the melody was perfectly picked up by a piano segment. While the audience's attention was firmly on the three main singers, spotlights illuminated the rear, revealing Jian Xingsui playing the piano.

With a lively yet melodious tune, Jian Xingsui's fingers danced gracefully over the keys. His flushed face, a result of fever, contrasted his soaked back. The beautiful music accompanied the intricate choreography of his teammates, each movement akin to a piece of art, creating a visual spectacle for the audience.

As the last piano key resonated and the melody subsided, Jian Xingsui, with his voice deep and slightly hoarse, crooned: "In the silent night, are you still walking alone? In the dark days, are you still tormented?"

With an irreplaceable voice, Jian Xingsui's singing was profoundly moving. In this moment, under the spotlight, he ruled the stage.

With a swift hand movement, the grandeur of the piano notes rose again, seamlessly integrated with the chorus of his teammates, their harmonious voices delivering another surge of emotion, echoing throughout:

"Look up and see, see me burning passionately."

"Look up and see, see me sacrificing all for the faint glow I offer you."

The stage was once again engulfed in vibrant red, contrasting sharply with the previous dark starry sky.

The heartfelt melody and strong emotional charge successfully captivated the audience. As the song concluded, the roaring applause and deafening screams attested to the performance's success. With "Faint Glow," as the team leader and composer, Jian Xingsui showcased unparalleled creative talent and musical prowess.

The young man sitting at the piano possessed delicate features, sculpted facial structures, and fair, smooth skin under the dim lights. Without much makeup, he radiated natural elegance.

The comment section exploded again:

"Impressive, so impressive!"

"Such incredible creativity."

"I've discovered a gem of a boy."

"Suddenly, I'm all about Jian Xingsui's looks."

"Who wouldn't vote for this young lad today?"

As the final notes of "Faint Glow" faded, the entire performance concluded.

All contestants rose to bow and thank the audience. However, Jian Xingsui, sitting by the piano, remained seated. His head was spinning severely. Earlier, while looking at the piano keys, his vision blurred, and he saw double images. He dared not stand, fearing he would collapse.

Mr. Li sensed something amiss and softly murmured, "What's going on?"

The stage lighting technician noticed a problem and hesitated to turn on all the lights.

The audience too began to sense that something was off.

"What's the matter?"

"What happened to Jian Xingsui?"

"Oh no, has something gone wrong?"

The mentors on the panel grew concerned. Fu Jinxe looked over at the person seated at the piano, his eyes slightly squinted. He gently picked up the microphone, whispering, "Jian Xingsui."

The elegant and mellow tones of a cello began to softly emanate from the stage speakers.

When the sound reached Jian Xingsui's ears, it jolted his spirit. His previously clouded mind began to clear. Feeling drained from his performance, the sound of Fu Jinxe's voice made him acutely aware that he was on stage.

He couldn't fall. He mustn't.

This was a stage that everyone worked hard for; one mistake could ruin everything.

Jian Xingsui discreetly pinched himself, the pain sharpening his thoughts. Under the watchful eyes of many, he slowly rose to his feet. His teammates, as if realizing something, came together in that moment, setting aside past grievances to unite on stage.

Zhou Xun approached first, followed by Zhang Jiajia, Li Xu'an, An Ran...

Everyone stood close together, moving to the center of the stage. As Jian Xingsui felt a bit unsteady, a hand supported him from behind. Turning, he saw Shen Xingchen's face.

Shen Xingchen silently mouthed, "Lean on me."

The creative team was the last to perform. Jian Xingsui was barely hanging on. Typically, feedback and individual questions would follow, but as Jian Xingsui stood there, slightly out of breath, Fu Jinxe took the microphone, asking, "Did all of you create this piece together?"

The other teammates nodded.

Only Zhou Xun spoke up, "The lyrics and composition are by our deputy leader, Jian Xingsui."

Fu Jinxe's gaze settled on Jian Xingsui. Without further questions, he offered a gentle smile and quietly remarked, "You did very well."

Jian Xingsui, who had been pushing himself, felt revitalized by Fu Jinxe's words. The warmth of approval rekindled his spirit, reminding him of past times when his idol provided the strength to persevere. That idol was a beacon, illuminating his world.

Weakened by a mild fever and with a hoarse voice, Jian Xingsui still managed to say, "Thank you, Teacher Fu."

On stage, the young man respectfully bowed to the mentors.

Expressing gratitude and respect for the mentor who appreciated and gave him opportunities.

Teacher Tuya smiled gently and announced, "Alright, now that the final group has finished their performance, let's vote for the most popular performer. The count isn't just from the audience here but also includes votes from viewers who watched the livestream for at least 60 minutes. The votes are officially valid."

The large screen behind them lit up, clearly displaying the data for each team.

Jian Xingsui turned around to find his name prominently listed among the creators. As the numbers on the screen slowly climbed, three names stood out with the highest votes: Li Xuan'an, An Ran, and Jian Xingsui.

Initially, Li Xuan'an and An Ran held a significant lead in votes while Jian Xingsui trailed behind. However, with the introduction of live audience voting, his numbers surged. The brilliance of "Twilight Glow" brought him newfound recognition. By the end, on the big screen, Jian Xingsui's bar towered over the rest.

It was a match where public sentiment triumphed over capital.

Tuya announced with a smile, "The final top creator of this round, the backbone king, is Jian Xingsui. Congratulations!"

A sea of applause erupted as spotlights cascaded down, illuminating the young man. He stood somewhat dazed in place, flashing a faint smile when he saw his face and name on the big screen.

There was supposed to be a speech segment here.

Fu Jinxiao's gaze remained fixed on Jian Xingsui. Sensing the young man's exhaustion, he took the microphone, "All top creators, please gather at center stage for a group photo."

Shen Xingchen was the first to approach Jian Xingsui, wrapping an arm around him and letting Jian lean on him.

Ning Ze, the top creator from another team, also walked over, taking Jian's other side. Together, they stood like pillars supporting Jian, showcasing their camaraderie.

Shen Xingchen playfully remarked, "Why are you so heavy, bro?"

Jian Xingsui retorted, "Where am I heavy?"

"You've always been heavy..."

A photographer upfront shouted, "Everyone, face the camera!"

Mid-banter, they all turned towards the photographer, capturing a slightly comical image. Jian, trapped between two friends, looked slightly exasperated. Even the show's director found the photo both funny and touching.

Unexpectedly, years later, as the young men in the picture achieved greatness in their fields and influenced the entertainment industry, this photo became an iconic image fondly remembered by many.

...

By 11 PM, the recording for "Starry Lights" wrapped up.

Outside the stadium, in a nearby hospital, a young man lay in bed with an IV drip. The doctor, after checking his temperature, assured, "The fever should break in another two hours."

The man sitting opposite simply nodded, "Thank you."

"It's alright," the doctor responded. Noticing his face, her heart raced, but professionalism prevailed. "He has a mild fever, but our examination revealed slight anemia and physical weakness. His training regimen seems rigorous, so nutrition shouldn't be the issue. It might be a lingering condition. The fever could be due to overexertion and stress. He shouldn't be under too much pressure; it could harm his health."

Fu Jinxiao, sitting in his chair, glanced at the young man on the bed and slightly narrowed his eyes.

The boy usually appeared carefree, but was he harboring so much internal stress? Fu Jinxiao nodded at the doctor, "Understood, thank you for your care."

The doctor blushed again.

It became clear why Fu Jinxiao was so highly regarded outside. Unlike some celebrities with diva attitudes, the respected actor Fu was polite, gracious, and incredibly handsome.

Hesitantly, the doctor asked, "May I request an autograph? And one for my colleague, she's a big fan."

Fu Jinxiao looked up, offering a distant yet courteous smile, "Of course, but it'll have to wait a bit. I'm here with my young friend who needs rest."

Realizing her oversight, the doctor bowed apologetically and quickly exited.

The room was immersed in silence, the scent of medicinal lotion filling the air. Jian Xingsui had been unconscious for only a short while, but as the medication began to take effect, he slowly stirred. His head felt heavy and, in a daze, he looked up to see Fu Jinxiao seated in a nearby chair, hesitantly murmuring, "Teacher Fu?"

Is he dreaming?

Upon hearing the movement, Fu Jinxiao lifted his gaze and asked softly, "Awake?"

"Mm…" Jian Xingsui, noticing the IV in his hand, inquired, "What happened to me?"

Fu Jinxiao replied succinctly, "You fainted right after getting off the stage, scaring the other students half to death. As your mentor, I brought you to the hospital."

After processing the information slowly, Jian Xingsui nodded sincerely, "Thank you, Teacher."

His fever had subsided a bit, making his flushed face appear a tad pale. The sick often seem frail. On the doctor's reminder, Fu Jinxiao noted that the young man did look rather thin. The doctor said it was due to mental stress leading to a lack of energy. As Fu Jinxiao looked at the obedient figure on the bed, his mind wandered back to a conversation he'd overheard in the stairwell.

Perhaps it was the solitude of the moment, or the pitiable sight of the sick boy on the bed, or maybe it was the image of the boy's late-night dedication in the practice room, but Fu Jinxiao asked, "Why didn't you take that one million?"

Jian Xingsui tensed.

Fu Jinxiao continued, "That day, by the stairwell, I was in the smoking room and heard everything."

Still groggy from his nap and with his fever not entirely gone, Jian Xingsui's mind was muddled. He whispered, "So you know."

"Yes," Fu Jinxiao remarked, "On your debut stage, you mentioned needing money and even joined the show for a mere twenty thousand. So why refuse a million?"

The answer to this wasn't initially vital for Fu Jinxiao.

Accustomed to his cold and indifferent demeanor, he had seen all the injustices in the entertainment industry. He typically didn't care or wish to involve himself. But strangely, he felt inexplicably invested in this young man's journey.

Sitting upright on the bed, Jian Xingsui clutched the blanket as if this answer was of utmost importance. With gravity in his voice, he said, "Because during our first ranking announcement, I promised you. I vowed never to join a show for money or disrespect the stage because of it."

...

A momentary silence filled the room.

Against the dark backdrop of the night outside the window, the depth in Fu Jinxiao's eyes mirrored the darkness. With an unusual sincerity, he asked, "Is my word that significant to you?"

More important than a million.

More crucial than the money you desperately need.

Even if you knew the consequences with the company.

With moist eyes, Jian Xingsui's breathing became erratic. Always having felt inferior after discovering his destined role in a novel, he finally, perhaps due to his fever or sheer emotion, nodded faintly at Fu Jinxiao.

Yes

Very important.