After the group gathered, the mountain trek began.

Jian Xingsui and his group had already learned about their rankings, and with the exhaustion from the previous climb, they approached the next segment with a laid-back attitude. However, climbing was indeed a strenuous task, especially deep into the night when hunger set in, making them crave for some food during their ascent.

Passing by a roadside stall, there was a vendor selling pancakes with green onions.

Those who were famished were not choosy at all. Jian Xingsui asked the others, "Want something to eat?"

Shen Xingchen nodded vigorously, "Eat!"

But they quickly encountered a problem — none of them had brought money.

The vendor, an old lady sitting beside her stall, watched the young folks with an unsympathetic gaze, showing no intention of letting them owe her.

Jian Xingsui, with his keen eyes, spotted some people dining under a canopy not far off.

Ning Ze remarked, “That's Fu Jinxiao and his group.”

Shen Xingchen's eyes lit up, and he jogged over, calling out, “Mr. Fu, Teacher Tuya!”

The mentors had taken a cable car up, now leisurely enjoying their breakfast, while their students still struggled uphill. The disparity made them all silently curse the unfairness of the world.

Jian Xingsui and Ning Ze approached, hearing Shen Xingchen pleading from a distance, “Can we join you? I’m starving!”

Tuya gave an apologetic smile, “Xingchen, as much as I’d like to invite you, the production team has rules. You must earn your meals. Don't you have star beans? They can be exchanged for food, 1 star bean equals 1 yuan.”

That’s when everyone recalled their untouched star beans.

Unfortunately, Shen Xingchen, who had never been frugal, had previously spent all his beans on water guns and other props.

Ning Ze, on the other hand, had exchanged all his beans for dumbbells.

Jian Xingsui offered, “I still have some, I'll buy.”

He had thirty star beans left, but what he hadn’t anticipated was the inflated prices on the mountain.

The vendor raised her hand to indicate the price, “Do you want meat in your pancake? It's 20 yuan with meat.”

Without meat, the pancakes only contained green onions, which none of them particularly fancied. Ning Ze and Shen Xingchen scrounged up another ten star beans, managing to buy two meat-filled pancakes. Still, it wasn’t nearly enough for the three boys.

Shen Xingchen, casting longing glances at the mentors’ lavish breakfast spread, felt like drooling.

Jian Xingsui tried to console him, but in the middle of it, someone called from a nearby table, “Jian Xingsui.”

The boy talking paused, turning to look in the direction of the call.

Fu Jinxiao, seated at the table, noticed Jian Xingsui lost in thought and waved him over, "Come here."

After ensuring it was indeed him being summoned, Jian Xingsui scuttled over, greeting, “Teacher.”

Fu Jinxiao inquired, “Could you do me a favor?”

Jian Xingsui nodded immediately, “Of course!”

The speed of his response surprised Tuya, who sat across them. She chuckled, wondering why the boy was so naïve. Didn’t he fear being taken advantage of by Fu Jinxiao, agreeing without a second thought?

A hint of amusement danced in Fu Jinxiao's eyes, “Could you get me a bottle of water from over there?”

Without hesitation, Jian Xingsui agreed, "Sure!"

After taking money from Fu Jinxiao, he swiftly went to fetch the water. Observing this, Tuya, propping up her chin, remarked, "He really trusts you."

Wiping his hands elegantly with a napkin, Fu Jinxiao replied, “After all, I’m not some villain.”

Tuya refrained from commenting.

Having collaborated for many years, she knew all too well the depths of this man.

In no time, Jian Xingsui returned with the water, handing it over, “Your water, teacher.”

Fu Jinxiao responded, “Thank you.”

As Jian Xingsui bowed, preparing to leave, he was halted, "Come back."

When he turned back, he was handed a sandwich. As if fearing it might not suffice, Fu Jinxiao added two boiled eggs from a paper bag, “Don’t starve.”

This was utterly unexpected for Jian Xingsui. He looked at Fu Jinxiao, a mix of surprise and gratitude, "Teacher…”

Shen Xingchen, observing from the back, jealously exclaimed, “I thought mentors aren't allowed to show favoritism! I want some too.”

Fu Jinxiao cast him a nonchalant glance, “That’s his delivery fee. Am I playing favorites?”

“...”

Shen Xingchen choked out, “I can run errands too!”

His loud proclamation nearly deafened, eliciting an annoyed response from Fu Jinxiao, “So noisy.”

Though he commented on the noise, Fu Jinxiao glanced at Tuya, who, getting the hint, sighed, “Could you get me a bottle of water as well?”

Delighted, Shen Xingchen promptly went on the task. Upon his return, Tuya handed him the remaining food on the table.

The audience, witnessing this comical scene, chuckled, many feeling moved:

“Brother Fu and Sister Tuya truly care for these youngsters.”

“Even if they don’t show it overtly.”

"Hahaha, buying water? It's clear that the real intention isn't about the drink!"

After receiving the food, Jian Xingsui shared the sandwiches with others and embarked on their mountain climbing journey. They put their utmost effort into this ascent. After nearly three to four hours, the group finally reached the summit of Mount Tai. It was just past five in the morning, a hint of dawn gracing the sky. The mountain breeze was cool, but for many climbers, their bodies were warm, making the breeze feel just right.

The mentors from the production team had been waiting for a while.

Gradually, many of the students also reached the summit. Silently, they lined up, standing at the peak, facing the early morning breeze, standing still and tranquil.

Fu Jinxiao asked, "Are you all tired?"

In unison, they replied, "Tired!"

"Compared to your training?"

"Equally exhausting!"

Fu Jinxiao smirked, "The descent might be easy, but a life looking down can never see the sky."

"I believe most of you have seen your ranking scores by now?" Fu Jinxiao glanced over the crowd, "How are you all feeling?"

They exchanged glances, none voicing their thoughts.

Fu Jinxiao leaned against a rock behind him and said leisurely, "For those who didn't advance, I believe you saw the option on your card to give up climbing at any time and rest. However, when the other mentors and I arrived, all 56 of you were here. Not one less."

Even though half of them would have to leave, everyone persisted till the end.

Admiration shone in Fu Jinxiao's eyes, "Now, everyone, turn around."

As they did, a sight they hadn't noticed before greeted them. The horizon gradually turned orange-golden, with a hint of the sun slowly emerging from the clouds. The sun began to rise, swallowing the night, vibrant and energetic. It seemed as if a sea of clouds was rolling in front of them, its golden light seemingly pouring over each individual.

Words couldn't capture the emotions of that moment.

It felt as if all the fatigue from the climb vanished, leaving behind only the profound impression of this fresh sunrise.

Fu Jinxiao's voice echoed from behind, "The climb is always the toughest. Any ascent is never easy. The descent might be smooth, but only by climbing can one witness the most brilliant sunrise. Today, you all witness this because none of you gave up, none of you admitted defeat."

Tu Ya added, "I hope each of you continues with this passion. No matter how long or challenging the path, never give up. Because with persistence, there's always hope of seeing the light."

Teacher Li also smiled and said, "Even if you have an exit ticket, don't give up. Just boldly move forward. If it gets too hard, just grit your teeth."

"Only then," Fu Jinxiao's voice, calm yet powerful, resonated with every student, "will you have the chance to stand with the victors and witness the dawn at the summit."

The sun rose higher, its golden rays bathing everyone, sowing seeds of hope.

The brightness was almost blinding. Perhaps because of its intensity, some students lowered their heads, their eyes glistening with tears. What was meant to be a segment that brought some sorrow and despair turned into a moment of hope and resilience through the team's thoughtful arrangement.

They needed to persevere, they couldn't admit defeat or choose the easy path. Because only with persistence is there a chance of victory.

...

Half a month later...

Only the remaining 16 contestants have reached their grand finale.

The total shooting duration of "Starlight" was about four months, spanning the sweltering summer to the end of autumn. Within this modest sports hall, countless tears, laughter, youth, and memories were left behind.

Today's finale is also the liveliest day for the sports hall. Media vehicles are parked at the back entrance for live broadcasts and interviews, while the front entrance sees the flurry of audience members with their tickets. Many family members of the contestants have come, and most of the contestants' companies are present. The culmination of over a hundred days of hard work will come to an end today.

...

Backstage

Everything here is in complete chaos.

Makeup artists are hurriedly applying makeup to the contestants. All 108 of them have returned. Given the variety of outfits and performance costumes, including guest performers, it's a non-stop hustle.

Jian Xingsui is adjusting Shen Xingchen's clothes, grumbling, "How did you get so disheveled just from a trip to the restroom? Aren't you worried about embarrassing yourself in front of your fans during the performance?"

Shen Xingchen chuckles lightly, "It's just a crooked collar. Do you really think that could diminish my charm?"

"..."

Sometimes, he wishes Shen Xingchen could share half of his confidence with him.

Jian Xingsui sighed in resignation and said nothing further.

The opening ceremony has already begun. The performance hall has been upgraded with a full 360-degree screen and warm, bright lights. The audience fills every seat, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

As dry ice fog fills the stage, the mentors make their appearance.

The mentors tonight are dressed in their finest. Tuya wears a white haute couture dress, while Fu Jinxiao is unusually dressed in a bright blue checkered suit. The always formal Teacher Li is also in a formal dress. Tonight is the culmination of the academy's training, and everyone, from the mentors to the audience, has shown utmost respect.

...

Teacher Li faces the camera, saying, "Thank you all for attending the grand finale of 'Star Show'. Tonight, our 108 students will have their graduation ceremony, and the finalists will determine the six debut positions!"

Tuya takes over, smiling at the camera, "Until now, our support channel remains open. From 7 pm to 10:30 pm, you can continue to support your favorite contestants. This is the last push, the final sprint!"

Fu Jinxiao speaks into the microphone, "Starting now, the Octopus Live and Little Sun Live apps will open their support channels. All fans can participate in voting for the most popular contestant of the evening. The top contestant will become the brand ambassador for both apps. Please search for 'Star Show' to support your favorite contestant."

The atmosphere in the hall is electric, tension palpable.

Teacher Li continues, "Tonight, our 16 contestants will form three teams to deliver spectacular performances. Let's look forward to it!"

As the lights dim, the first group of contestants take the stage.

An Ran and Li Xu'an's song performance is "Sun". A mix of emotive and invigorating vibes, An Ran's outfit for the night, playful yet cute, took the costume team dozens of iterations to perfect. Fans below are cheering loudly.

"Go An Ran!"

"You must debut!"

"I'm a fan of Zhi Ge, and I'll definitely vote for you!"

This group, including Li Xu'an, has many popular contestants. The audience is ecstatic during their performance. The second group begins their act swiftly. Jian Xingsui's group is the third and is still waiting offstage.

Shen Xingchen has been visibly nervous since the beginning.

Jian Xingsui says to him and Ning Ze, "Don't be nervous. It's our last night. We have to give our best performance and leave a lasting impression on the audience."

Shen Xingchen shot him a glare, "What's with the ominous words? 'The last night'?"

Jian Xingsui sighed in exasperation, "Alright, alright, my mistake."

Ning Ze extended his hand, "Let's give it our all, together."

Other team members moved closer. At this moment, they all shared the same determination – to give their best performance and leave no regrets.

Soon after, an announcement echoed, “Please welcome the final group to the stage! They will be performing 'The World Won’t Collapse Easily’.”

The arena resonated with thunderous applause. As they made their entrance, deafening screams and cheers erupted from below:

"Xingchen! Shine the brightest, Xingchen!"

"Go Xingsui, go!"

"Charge on, my darlings!"

Never had they stood on a stage with such a multitude of spectators. The audience waved their glow sticks and chanted their names. Words were unnecessary; their overwhelming support was palpable. Jian Xingsui took this all in, committing to memory this final, dazzling moment that was uniquely theirs.

The teammates found their spots on the stage as the music began its soft intro.

Following his secondary performance, Jian Xingsui’s musical prowess had been acknowledged. Leading the song, as the lights dimmed, the young man at the center began with a clear, deep voice, "The show has ended, the chaos fades, and I watch myself, like a backdrop."

The dancers on stage moved with graceful fluidity, never missing a beat.

Ning Ze stepped forward, taking over from Jian Xingsui, crooning, "I understand the unrest, the hidden guilt, much like a cloudy day."

The melody started to build.

This song had been rearranged by Jian Xingsui, embodying his unique style. He had skillfully enhanced it without compromising its essence, ensuring the performance showcased the team’s talents and maintained the original emotion.

"No matter the twists and turns,"

"The world won’t, collapse easily."

"Deceptions of reality, gap between hope, a tight embrace, and I'm fearless."

The lights grew brighter. As the melancholic tune enveloped the audience, it suddenly lifted, taking everyone by surprise. The performers moved with even greater vigor, their dance moves sharp and energetic. This was a song filled with hope and inspiration. As the melody ascended, it stirred everyone's emotions.

In the final beat, Shen Xingchen leaped from the back, gracefully landing on one knee, creating a visually stunning impact. He lifted the tune, his powerful voice echoing throughout the arena, "No matter the twists and turns, the world won’t, collapse easily."

As his voice faded, the chorus immediately followed.

"No matter how bad it gets,"

"Don't let go of my hand,"

"Given some more time, it will change, this dreadful present…!"

The chorus surged with a powerful crescendo, as if about to lift the entire arena with its momentum. Especially Shen Xingchen, who sang with such intensity and focus, as though channeling deep emotions and power to someone. At the end of the performance, Jian Xingsui locked eyes with Shen Xingchen, both their eyes tinged with red.

It seemed they weren't just singing, but battling something profound.

Battling the world, its injustices, and an inescapable fate.

When the performance ended, the teammates, without a word amongst themselves, leaned into one another, their backs drenched in sweat. They caught their breaths amidst the roaring cheers and screams, eyes gleaming like stars, with the audience's applause rising like waves:

"Go for it, kids!"

"You all have to debut together!"

The live broadcast viewership peaked at ten million. Tonight, all fans were on the edge of their seats:

"That adaptation was phenomenal."

"I feel like they all gave their all."

"I usually dislike adaptations, but every song Jian Xingsui has touched is a gem to me!"

On stage, the contestants stood in a line, bowing gratefully to the audience. For many, it was their last performance. Yet, at that moment, they had all given it their all.

No one truly lost; not entirely.

It had been a grueling journey. But together, they'd reached the summit, bathed in the sunlight. They hadn't missed out on everything.

As the stage curtain fell, the mentors entered. Mentor Li instructed, "All performers, please move to the front steps. We are about to begin the next phase."

All three groups had performed, and now it was time to announce the rankings.

The mentors' gazes swept across the participants. Tuya remarked with a faint smile, "You've all changed since the beginning. Improved immensely."

Mentor Li teased, "For some, it's not just improvement. They've become ethereal!"

Some, who entered for a mere twenty thousand, ended up foregoing larger sums just to do justice to their final performance.

Jian Xingsui gave a modest smile, taking it as a compliment.

Fu Jinxiao picked up a card, "It's 10:29 now. All our supporting channels are closed, and I have the latest results here."

Mentor Li nodded, "Now, we'll announce the scores of the remaining 16 contestants."

Only the top six could debut.

The sixteen stood on the steps, awaiting their fate. As the mentors began announcing, slowly, five or six names were called. Among them, four wouldn't debut, while two secured their debut spots.

Xu Qinkhe.

fanciful

These two stood in the debut positions. Both highly talented with strong backing, their debut was expected. However, this meant only four spots remained.

Shen Xingchen had been visibly anxious from the start. Known for his lively nature, he'd remained silent throughout. As the debuting contestants celebrated, Jian Xingsui reassured his brother, "Don't worry, you've got this."

Shen Xingchen said, "Worry about yourself first."

Jian Xingsui smiled helplessly.

Among them, the most concerning was Ning Ze. He was exceptionally talented, and to be honest, his dance and vocal skills could rank in the top three. He was also incredibly diligent, and the management company behind him was quite capable.

Before the announcements concluded, Tuya picked up a card, glanced at it, and began, "The contestant I'm about to announce is a remarkable talent in both singing and dancing. Ever since joining 'Starlight', he has practiced tirelessly, overcoming numerous challenges and achieving success again and again. He's an inspiration to us all and holds a special place in the fans' hearts. He is..."

Jian Xingsui and Shen Xingchen turned their gaze to Ning Ze.

Tuya revealed, "It's Li Xu'an! Congratulations Xu'an for securing the second place!"

The audience erupted in cheers.

Li Xu'an's fans screamed endlessly. Although Li Xu'an himself wasn't entirely pleased—for if he didn't get the first place, it must've been Shen Xingchen—what was there to celebrate about such a defeat?

However, on camera, he graciously accepted the microphone and said, "Thank you all for your support. I'm truly grateful..."

Behind

Jian Xingsui, with one hand on Shen Xingchen and the other on Ning Ze, whispered soothingly, "Stay calm; there's still hope for both of you."

As the announcements proceeded, four spots were already taken.

Jian Xingsui could feel the nervous sweat forming in Shen Xingchen's palm. If Li Xu'an didn't secure the center position, then Shen Xingchen surely did. With all the effort and passion Shen Xingchen invested for this moment, he should be elated. But now, his face was tense and palms sweaty.

Shen Xingchen had always been emotionally invested, no matter how much he tried to hide it.

Only three debut spots remained. If one more was announced that wasn't for Jian Xingsui or Ning Ze, then they'd genuinely be saying their goodbyes.

It was different this time.

It wasn't about being placed in different teams or not training together for a day. It was a final farewell.

Teacher Li continued, "The next contestant is quite young but immensely talented. Initially underrated during the early stages, he quickly climbed the ranks, proving himself to the audience. He's gifted in composition and has a remarkable disposition..."

As Teacher Li spoke, Shen Xingchen and Ning Ze both looked at Jian Xingsui.

even

Even Jian Xingsui couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope, even though he knew the odds weren't in his favor.

"He is—An Ran! Congratulations, An Ran, on securing the third spot with a total of 6.3 million votes. We hope you maintain this momentum."

The arena echoed with fans' screams. An Ran's face lit up with joy. He jumped off the stage, and as he walked by Jian Xingsui, he gave a brief, triumphant glance before joyfully addressing the microphone, "Thank you to my 'stars', and thanks to everyone for supporting me..."

When the host announced this name.

Shen Xingchen, who had always been by Jian Xingsui's side, turned his face away.

The usually fearless and defiant Shen Xingchen, who had never backed down from a challenge, turned away.

Concerned, Jian Xingsui looked over, only to witness a scene that left him stunned.

Shen Xingchen broke down in tears.

He realized that if An Ran debuted, then Jian Xingsui, another singer, would inevitably miss out. Shen mourned the impending separation from his brother, the cruel twist of fate, and perhaps the injustice of the production team.

Jian Xingsui hurriedly grabbed him, “Young Master, what’s wrong? We're still live! The results aren’t all in. There's still hope for your debut. Please, don't cry.”

Ning Ze also rushed over to comfort Shen Xingchen.

Meanwhile, Tu Ya retrieved another card and read aloud, “Next up, this trainee has persevered and strived on stage for decades. Perseverance and relentless determination are his motto. Every hardship he’s endured attests to his dedication. He is... Ning Ze! Congratulations, Ning Ze! You ranked sixth this season, securing 4.62 million votes!”

As she finished, it felt like the final verdict.

The audience erupted with mixed emotions. While many congratulated Ning Ze, others were in utter disbelief:

“What just happened?”

“Where's Xingsui?”

“Why isn’t Xingsui ranked sixth?”

“Oh my god, this can’t be real.”

The chat in the livestream exploded:

“I’m in tears here in my dorm. Why didn’t Xingsui make it?!”

“He was in fifth place just two hours ago!”

“I had a bad feeling ever since An Ran was announced, especially seeing Xingchen cry. I felt it coming, but the pain is still unbearable.”

“Why didn’t my boy make it?! I'm losing my mind!”

As Ning Ze was announced as part of the group, it should've been a moment of joy for him. Yet, instead of smiling, he immediately looked at Jian Xingsui, his eyes red.

When Fu Jinxiao announced Shen Xingchen as the center, Shen, who should’ve been the happiest, couldn’t stop crying. Holding Jian Xingsui’s hand tightly, it felt as if he was trying to hold onto something slipping away. Those from their dorm who made it weren't celebrating either; the atmosphere was somber.

Tu Ya turned to Shen Xingchen, “Would you like to share your thoughts?”

Wiping his tears, Shen responded defiantly, “I don't have much to say. Honestly, I'm not even that keen on this group. I don't understand how you decided on these rankings. It feels like a joke.”

His voice, tinged with tears yet undeniably assertive, echoed throughout the venue, openly challenging the producers.

Tu Ya understood Shen Xingchen's frustration but chose not to intervene.

As part of the debut, each member was to be crowned. When a staff member approached Shen with the crown, he refused to wear it. Instead, he walked over to Jian Xingsui.

Jian hesitated, “What are you…”

Shen placed the crown on Jian’s head, smirking, “It suits you.”

Every debut member was entitled to such a crown, yet Shen Xingchen chose to give his to Jian Xingsui. The act caused a massive uproar. Never before had a center, a debut member, so openly defied protocol on the debut night, let alone gift away their crown. The show had one for Jian, but they withheld it. Shen Xingchen made sure he got it.

Mr. Li, attempting to defuse the awkward tension, spoke up, "Ning Ze, would you share your feelings about making the group?"

For most people, Ning Ze had always been perceived as an earnest individual.

After a moment's pause, Ning Ze approached the microphone, "Thank you all for your unwavering support. I will continue to give it my all. But before this night ends, there's something I wish to do."

He turned and walked up to Jian Xingsui, handing him the crown he held, a playful smirk on his face, "This is for you."

As the cameras broadcasted live, the entire hall was sent into an uproar.

What exactly was happening on this debut night? Just how audacious were these debuting contestants?

Fu Jinxiao, a mentor closest to them alongside Tu Ya, kept hearing the staff's urgent reminders through his earpiece, "Mr. Fu, Ms. Tu Ya, please intervene with these two contestants and inform them that they're breaking the rules."

Fu Jinxiao paused, then calmly removed his earpiece, pocketing it.

Tu Ya looked at him, a hint of astonishment in her eyes.

With a casual smile, Fu Jinxiao remarked, "There's been a lot of static. I can't hear clearly, it might be broken."

"..."

After a brief silence, Tu Ya, following his lead, also took out her earpiece.

After all, when it came to challenging the production team, Mr. Fu was quite adept.