Fu Jinxe met the wary gaze of Shen Minglang and deepened his smile, "Relax. We've known each other for years. It's just a favor. Why think of repayment?"

The more Fu Jinxe spoke this way, the more Shen Minglang grew suspicious.

With Fu Jinxe, if he openly tells you something, it's probably not a big deal. But if he has that dangerous smile and speaks softly, it's a clear warning sign.

Shen Minglang knew he shouldn't take advantage, or the losses would be greater, "What's our relationship? Don't be so formal with me."

Fu Jinxiao lounged back in his chair, a hand casually supporting the chair's back, appearing both leisurely and captivatingly handsome. His seemingly playful tone held a touch of sincerity, "Remember, you promised me any artifact I desire."

Shen Minglang adjusted his glasses cautiously. Taking over Shen Corp didn't make him this nervous, nor did his initial dealings with the old foxes of the boardroom. He was always confident in front of others, but with this particular old fox, he was constantly on his toes.

"Compared to the Fu family's collection, mine might seem modest, even unimpressive," Shen Minglang remarked, assuming Fu was after some artifact. "However, anything within my reach, you can have."

For some reason, upon hearing this, Fu Jinxiao's demeanor became considerably warmer. The film star gracefully refilled Shen's glass with wine, stating, "Quite the generous offer."

The red wine glistened as it filled the glass, its deep hue matching its rich sound.

Fu Jinxiao shot his friend a sly glance and smirked, "Since you've put it that way, I won't hold back."

"..."

Shen Minglang found himself at a loss for words.

the next day

The day before the premiere of "Starry Brilliance", eagle-eyed netizens noticed something curious. Jian Xingsui's official Weibo name had changed to Shen Xingsui. This sudden reveal set off a wave of speculation and gossip about his origins.

"Has he returned to his biological parents?"

"So, he's a Shen by birth?"

"Wow, Shen Xingsui has a nice ring to it!"

Some netizens began speculating about his background, seeking any hints or clues. One user hypothesized, "Has anyone noticed how Shen Xingchen, who's always called him 'brother', and Shen Xingsui have such similar names? They sound like siblings!"

This speculation quickly topped the comments.

Many chimed in:

"They did resemble each other even before the name change. Now it's even more pronounced."

"I've thought the same!"

"But isn't Shen Xingchen's elder brother Shen Minglang?"

"The stars revolve around the moon; they're all part of the same celestial family."

This theory gained traction, though many felt it was too fortuitous, given the Shen family's elite status. Plus, Shen Xingsui's intricate relationship with An Ran made things more convoluted. Could it really be this coincidental?

A bold netizen commented:

"Could Xingsui actually be from the Shen family?"

"Could such coincidences truly exist in the world?"

"But remember, everyone initially remarked on their striking resemblance!"

This reminded many that due to the length of the show's airing, they'd almost forgotten the running joke about their similar appearances. Bringing up this old observation reignited interest and speculation. Even though neither was a major celebrity, the buzz around Jian Xingsui's name change led it to trend on social media.

...

Shen family

Amidst the fervent speculations, the Shen family was bustling with activity. Xu Enzhen was preparing travel essentials for two children about to embark on a journey.

As Jian Xingsui descended the stairs, he noticed something in Xu Enzhen's hands. Out of curiosity, he approached, only to discover a white name badge in his mother’s grasp. This was provided by the program's crew for each guest, to be worn at the waist during filming.

Shen Xingchen beckoned upon seeing him, “Come here, look at your badge.”

Jian Xingsui took a closer look at the white badge. On it, against a white background, were three characters: Shen Xingsui.

With a smile, Shen Xingchen remarked, “The ‘Shen’ character does look nice. Much more pleasing than ‘Jian,’ don’t you think, mother?”

A soft smile adorning her face, Xu Enzhen gestured towards Jian Xingsui and called, “Child, come here.”

Hesitating for a moment, Jian Xingsui decisively moved towards his mother. Standing before her, he took a deep, hushed breath. While a mere change of a character might seem trivial to many, to him, it was profoundly significant.

Holding the new badge, Xu Enzhen, with glistening eyes, gently affixed it to Jian Xingsui’s waist, murmuring, “From today onwards, Xingsui is truly and wholly a part of our family.”

Leaning against a sofa, Shen Xingchen half-jokingly remarked, “Shen Xingsui and Shen Xingchen. Our names sound like a pair of brothers, don’t they? Perhaps no matter how far apart we drift, fate destined us to be true siblings. With your new name, it’s even more evident.”

Caught off-guard by the remark, a sweet, heartfelt smile formed in Jian Xingsui's eyes. For the first time, he appreciated his name, cherishing a part of himself rather than resenting his life and, by extension, himself.

Xu Enzhen, her face adorned with a smile, gave the boy a warm embrace, whispering, “Beyond the new name, I believe we will embrace a new life together. All past sorrows will be distant memories.”

The smile in Shen Xingsui’s eyes deepened as he nodded gently.

Handcrafted items were a common sight in the Shen family’s living room. Xu Enzhen took the boys’ measurements, mentioning, “Winter is approaching. When you both return, I’ll have warm clothing and hats ready for you.”

Shen Xingchen quipped, “Mom, no floral embroidery on my gloves this time. Last year’s pair had tiny flowers; they looked rather effeminate.”

Xu Enzhen shot him a playful glare.

Shen Xingsui, however, remained silent. Only when Xu Enzhen turned to him did he shyly respond, “Thank you, mother.”

Touched by the boy’s politeness, Xu Enzhen inquired gently, “Xingsui, any specific design or style you’d like? I can make it.”

Shen Xingsui gently shook his head, murmuring, “Anything is fine.”

No one had ever handcrafted anything for him. He hesitated to express any specific wishes, fearing being burdensome. Merely receiving such a gesture filled him with immense gratitude and joy.

Xu Enzhen tenderly tousled Shen Xingsui’s hair, chuckling, “Alright then, I’ll decide on my own.”

Facing Xu Enzhen, Shen Xingsui smiled and nodded obediently.

As they left the house and boarded the car for the airport, noticing Jian Xingsui lost in thought, Shen Xingchen assured him, “Don't worry. While mother's culinary skills might be lacking, her handcrafted goods are exquisite. Our family business revolves around apparel and accessories. Occasionally, her handcrafted pieces are sold in the market and are always quick to sell out.”

Surprised, Shen Xingsui commented, “I've seen numerous intricate items and textiles at home. So they were all handcrafted by mother?”

Shen Xingchen nodded, “Exactly. Mother is somewhat of an introvert and enjoys crafting at home. Her handcrafted designs are indeed exquisite and internationally renowned as luxury items. Being handcrafted, every piece is unique and highly sought after.”

What Shen Xingchen left unsaid was the astronomical pricing of such items.

Yet, Madame Xu seldom sold her creations. She preferred crafting for her family or preserving them for personal admiration. Her passion indirectly bestowed upon Shen Xingchen and Shen Minglang an abundance of love since childhood, ensuring both grew up well-adjusted and loved.

...

noon

The plane arrived at the filming location.

"Starry Splendor" is a grand adventure reality show, with each episode featuring a different theme. This time, their first stop was at a picturesque small town to experience the cultural heritage of their homeland.

The production team continued with the "Starry" live broadcast mode, which once again attracted a large number of devoted fans and live-stream viewers. On the first day of the show, the number of online viewers reached an astonishing forty million. Especially when Fu Jinxiao appeared at the airport, the fans went wild:

"Brother Fu! Brother Fu!"

"I've been waiting here all morning just to see him!"

"He's still so handsome!"

Fu Jinxiao emerged from the VIP exit, unexpectedly encountering An Ran, who was waiting nearby.

Indeed, after the incident with Jian Xingsui, An Ran finally recognized the gravity of the situation. He always pondered how he could excel, but later he realized that such aspirations were quite unrealistic.

How much better was Shen Xingsui than himself?

Even though he wasn't outstanding, didn't he still win Fu Jinxiao's affections?

Thus, whether he was exceptional or not was irrelevant; what mattered now was capturing Fu Jinxiao's heart. If he could marry into the prestigious Fu family, he'd always have the upper hand, regardless of the outcome.

His only advantage was the memories of his previous life, which told him Fu Jinxiao's flight schedule. Therefore, he could orchestrate their coincidental meeting as a strategic move!

An Ran approached him, "Brother Fu!"

Fu Jinxiao, wearing sunglasses that concealed his slightly furrowed brows, responded indifferently, "Ah, An Ran."

"Yes, what a coincidence, Brother Fu," An Ran smiled, "running into you here."

Pushing his luggage with one hand, Fu Jinxiao remarked, "Didn't the production team designate this place for gathering? So it's not really a coincidence."

"..."

An Ran was taken aback.

However, the live viewers found this rather entertaining:

"Hahaha, savage Fu!"

"Such a buzzkill."

"LOL"

Even though it was autumn, the intense midday sun was beating down as they disembarked. This particular town happens to be one of the hottest regions in the country. Thus, all the guests were dressed in summer attire. An Ran persisted, "Brother Fu, are you tired after the plane journey? I have a bottle of water; would you like some?"

Without a second thought, Fu Jinxiao declined, "Not thirsty."

Dejected, An Ran had no choice but to give up.

He had been waiting for a chance to strike up a conversation and deepen their relationship, but every attempt was overlooked. Still, he consoled himself by thinking that the renowned actor Fu was naturally reserved, treating everyone with a polite distance.

As the group proceeded, they noticed Shen Xingsui, Ning Ze, and Shen Xingchen along with their party in the distance, seemingly gathered around a stall.

Fu Jinxiao approached them.

Shen Xingchen waved, calling out, "Hey, Brother Fu! Over here!"

Fu Jinxiao walked over, his gaze settling on the obedient-looking Shen Xingsui in a white shirt. Removing his glasses, a hint of a smile crept across his face, "What are you up to here?"

Holding a bottle of water, Shen Xingsui replied, "We're buying water for the road."

Fu Jinxiao nodded lightly.

Hesitating for a moment, Shen Xingsui offered the water, "Would you like some?"

An Ran, watching from behind, felt a momentary triumph, recalling how he was just rejected. Now Shen Xingsui seemed to be setting himself up for a similar fate…

Fu Jinxiao gracefully accepted, his voice deep and elegant, "Thank you."

An Ran was stunned.

Shen Xingsui kindly asked, "Which brand would you prefer, Yibao or Nongfu Spring?"

Picking one at random, Fu Jinxiao smiled, praising the young one's initiative, "Perfect timing, I'm quite thirsty after the walk."

Shen Xingsui beamed, "Glad I could help."

Taking a few sips, Fu Jinxiao seemed appreciative.

The pair got along splendidly, which didn't sit well with the envious An Ran watching from behind. However, the live stream viewers found it amusing:

"Hahaha!"

"He got thirsty so quickly."

"Just a short walk, and already parched."

"I pity An Ran for a moment."

"The joke's on him!"

The group waited for a bit, and soon, all the members disembarked from the plane and gathered.

Tuya, Teacher Li, Li Xuan'an of the same group, along with two other members Xu Qinkai and Feng Fan, who were the rappers and singers of the group, arrived. They greeted others and then discreetly stood to one side.

This highlighted the evident divisions within the group.

Shen Xingchen primarily mingled with Ning Ze, while Li Xuan'an conversed well with An Ran. Xu Qinkai and Feng Fan, both relatively quiet, stayed out of the group dynamics.

Upon reaching the base of a mountain near the town, the director exclaimed, "Firstly, welcome to the beautiful Peach Blossom Village, a place with year-round spring and picturesque views. Ancient legends romanticize this place. Would you all like to hear more?"

"..."

A gust of wind broke the silence.

It was Teacher Li who broke the awkwardness with a forced laugh, "I'd love to hear!"

Only then did the others politely applaud, ensuring the director wasn't left hanging.

The director responded with a grateful smile, continuing, "Legend has it that, centuries ago, our sacred emperor ventured south to Jiangnan. Here, he chanced upon a celestial maiden descending to Earth. Her beauty radiated like blooming peach blossoms; she possessed knowledge of both past and future. Their encounter led to a beautiful tale. Later, the emperor wished to take her to his palace, but she declined, disliking the constraints of court life. One fateful evening, she left behind a letter and vanished into the ether."

The live-stream viewers began commenting after hearing the story:

"Wow, that took a ghostly turn."

"Did such folklore actually exist?"

"That celestial maiden is quite something."

Clearing his throat, the director said, "So, here's today's task. Just 500 meters ahead lies the renowned Peach Blossom Haven. We've hidden clues throughout the village. Using these hints, your mission is to find the rendezvous spot of the maiden and the emperor before sunset."

Shen Xingchen chimed in, "Director, what's the prize for finding it?"

The director replied, "Great question! The first one to find it will be treated to a luxurious feast exclusive to Peach Blossom Haven, including a lavish hotel stay. As for those who don’t, they'll face a penalty: no feast and they'll have to find accommodations at a basic inn."

With that, everyone understood the stakes.

An Ran then asked, "Director, do we need to form teams?"

The director nodded, "Yes, team up as you wish, two to a team. Our staff will guide you in Peach Blossom Haven."

Relieved by the flexible teaming option, everyone gratefully exclaimed, "Thank you, Director."

The participants began heading towards the village.

Due to past events and exhaustion from the "Star Show," Shen Xingsui had been battling anemia and fatigue. Although he sought treatments, the journey took a toll on him, so he lagged behind the group.

The ever-impatient Shen Xingchen said, "I’ll scout ahead with Ning Ze. Wait here!"

Shen Xingsui nodded, "Alright."

Knowing his restless nature, making him walk slowly beside would have been the real torture.

Gradually, Shen Xingsui found himself separated from the main group. As he ambled, he noticed someone ahead, also pulling luggage and walking slowly.

Drawing closer, he expressed surprise, "Teacher Fu?"

Fu Jinxiao glanced at him, "Hmm?"

"Why are you back here?" Shen Xingsui asked curiously. "Everyone else is so far ahead."

Fu Jinxiao mainly found An Ran bothersome and deliberately slowed down. But he couldn't say this outright, so he responded with a playful tone, "Getting old, my legs aren't what they used to be."

It was just a casual jest.

Unexpectedly, Shen Xingsui glanced down at Fu Jinxiao's legs and asked, "Hasn't your old injury healed yet?"

Fu Jinxiao paused in surprise.

That had been a passing remark from half a month ago. Did this young man still remember it? Some feign concern with mere words, while others genuinely care, bearing it in their hearts no matter how much time passes.

The corners of Fu Jinxiao's lips rose slightly. Just as he was about to deny any such problem, Shen Xingsui chimed in, "Later, when we're collecting clues, there'll be a lot of running around in the town. If your leg hasn't recovered, you shouldn't overexert. How about this? If you don't mind, let's team up. I'll do the searching, and you can rest."

...

Fu Jinxiao was silent for a moment, as if pondering something. Lifting his gaze to the young man before him, his voice carried a deep magnetism, "That seems like a lot of trouble for you."

Shen Xingsui responded adamantly, "Not at all!"

Finally, a chance to reciprocate the kindness of his idol, protecting his recovery!

Fu Jinxiao grinned, but his ever-scheming expression remained, saying languidly, "Well then, I appreciate it, Suisui."

Shen Xingsui replied, "It's no trouble."

The online audience captured all this live:

"Hahaha, I feel like Mr. Fu is pulling our legs."

"Our Suisui has always been genuine since he was a kid."

"I saw Fu Jinxiao at an event a few days ago. Walking is a piece of cake for him, let alone helping carry heavy stuff."

"Ladies, let's not spill the beans."

"Hahaha, those in the know, know."

As they reached the town, Shen Xingchen waited for his brother, intending to propose teaming up. But seeing Fu Jinxiao, who smiled "warmly" at him, he promptly chose Ning Ze.

An Ran was left to partner with Li Xu'an.

Tu Ya joined forces with Teacher Li, while Xu Qinkai and Feng Fan naturally paired up.

Once at the location, after handing their luggage to the staff, everyone got engrossed in searching for hidden clue cards. The most enthusiastic of the bunch was An Ran. Failing to team up with Fu Jinxiao, he aimed for screen time, trying to reinvent his image and gain fans. As long as he won the game, he'd showcase his prowess.

Shen Xingchen and Ning Ze, those two goofballs, were no match for him.

As for Xu Qinkai and Feng Fan, they didn't seem too sharp usually and could be easily overlooked.

Having participated in this program in his previous life, he knew the locations of all the task cards. If he found them before Shen Xingsui did and showcased his abilities to Fu Jinxiao, the superiority would be clear, and Fu would naturally want to team up with him.

The game began, and ten minutes later, all the groups convened once.

Shen Xingchen inquired about everyone's card count. An Ran, with a touch of pride, said, "This game's pretty challenging, and the task cards are hard to find. Despite my efforts, I only managed to find eight."

Shen Xingchen exclaimed, “Where did you get so many?”

On average, they had only managed to find three or four cards. The hints were scattered and hardly pointed to any specific location.

Tuya turned to Shen Xingsui's team and asked, “How about you guys?”

A bit embarrassed, Shen Xingchen reluctantly admitted, “We only found one.”

The others tried to stifle their laughter upon hearing the last-ranked team's count. However, Shen Xingsui's mild and non-threatening demeanor endeared him to many. His lack of competitiveness made him easy to get along with.

However, opinions from the netizens varied:

“Ranran is truly hardworking.”

“He's always been so diligent and sharp.”

“How can Shen Xingsui be so slow? He better not let Fu lose the game and end up in a standard room.”

“So annoying. Isn't this just causing trouble for others?”

The director announced, “Alright, round two begins. The leading team hasn’t appeared yet!”

Everyone dispersed.

This time, Shen Xingsui felt the urgency. He and Fu Jinxiao had been wandering aimlessly before. Taking a moment, he said, “Mr. Fu, we need to speed up. At the pace Anran's team is going, we'll soon be left behind.”

Fu Jinxiao looked down at him, “Oh? Then let's pick up the pace and search for clues.”

Shen Xingsui shook his head and observed, “I noticed Anran's team heading in the opposite direction. This area has probably been searched thoroughly. Even if there are clues left, they would be few and hard to find.”

In truth, if Fu Jinxiao wanted, he could easily find the tasks, especially if he really wanted to win.

But watching Shen Xingsui, with his sparkling eyes and earnest demeanor, he couldn’t rush him. Instead, he let the young man think.

Fu Jinxiao calmly responded, “What's on your mind?”

Shen Xingsui pondered, “If we ask the street vendors here, would they know where the fairy and the emperor declared their love?”

Fu Jinxiao confidently replied, “No, they wouldn’t.”

Shen Xingsui flashed a mysterious smile and whispered, “Follow me.”

Fu Jinxiao raised an eyebrow. He knew that they should be heading in another direction to maximize their chances. Usually a rational individual, he found himself led by the bright and cheerful boy in front of him. With a hint of resignation, he said, “Let’s go.”

After wandering through several streets, they were soon off the main filming area.

Not too far away, under a large tree, several elderly women sat on small stools, enjoying the shade. A couple of them were cracking nuts and seeds, gossiping. This gathering was the village's gossip hub.

Shen Xingsui and Fu Jinxiao exchanged amused glances.

The usually shy boy took steps forward, determined not to let his idol sleep in an ordinary room. He approached and inquired, “Good day, ma'am. May I ask you something?”

The elderly lady, with fading eyesight, peered at the handsome young face and murmured, “What can I do for you, dear girl?”

Caught off guard, Shen Xingsui corrected, “I'm a boy, ma'am.”

“Oh, a boy then,” she acknowledged softly. “What do you need, young man?”

Briefly, Shen Xingsui recounted the legend and asked, “Do you know where their pledge of love took place?”

The old woman exchanged glances with the ladies beside her before replying languidly, “Someone came earlier and told us not to divulge anything. The tale is so ancient; I barely recall the specifics.”

Shen Xingsui felt a hint of despair; this wasn't going as planned.

Observing his dejection, Fu Jinxiao gracefully sat down beside the elderly lady. With a resonant and polite voice, he remarked, “I notice you're listening to Beijing opera on your radio. My family enjoys it too. This particular piece is wonderfully performed. You have exquisite taste, ma'am.”

The old woman gave him a side glance, her eyes widening slightly in appreciation. “Young man, you're quite a looker.”

With a charming smile, Fu Jinxiao responded, “Thank you for the compliment. I was hoping you could assist us with something.”

Curious, she inquired, “What might that be?”

Unhurriedly, Fu Jinxiao elaborated, “I wish to discover the rendezvous point of the fairy and the emperor.”

Shen Xingsui thought to himself, Didn't she just say she forgot? Why is Brother Fu repeating the question? Isn't this a waste of time?

But to his astonishment —

The old woman, still fixated on the handsome movie star, seemed to have a sudden epiphany. “Ah! Now I remember. Young man, you've come to the right person. I know of the place. Come closer, and I'll whisper it to you.”

A grateful smile crossed Fu Jinxiao's face. “Thank you, ma'am.”

Shen Xingsui, who witnessed the entire exchange, was left utterly speechless.

...

Meanwhile, on another front, An Ran had already collected 10 mission cards.

Confident of victory, An Ran mused on his previous life where he had hardly found any cards, with most being located by the astute Fu Jinxiao. Now, with prior knowledge, he was eager to prove himself.

With a triumphant grin, An Ran prepared to report to the director.

However, as he approached the turn-in point, his earpiece buzzed to life, announcing, “The winners of this round have been decided. The team of Fu Jinxiao and Shen Xingsui are the first to arrive at the mission location, securing them the victory and a luxurious feast.”

Silence ensued.

Stunned, An Ran blurted out, “They didn't have that many cards! How did they pinpoint the location?”

Meanwhile, the live chatroom was erupting in laughter:

“They've cracked the code of wealth.”

“An Ran, you're still too naive.”

"Who could resist Fu Jinxiao?"

"Haha, not to mention you, even Suisui seems deeply traumatized!"