[Host, are you ready to take the stage?]
The system slowly presented this sentence.
‘You’re still here?’
Normally, at this time, the little creature should have run away already.
[For the first time participating in such a large-scale talent show, I am also quite curious. Host, when you sing and dance later, do you need me to act as a prompter?]
The song was submitted before the host arrived, leaving only a short time to familiarize. It feels quite precarious.
‘No need, just a few lines of lyrics; I’ve memorized them all.’ Chu Qianze responded in his mind, simultaneously placing the ‘A’ sign on the side.
‘Hurry and close the interface; you’re blocking the view, which might hinder the genuine expression of my emotions.’ He raised his hand to pat the sign, making sure it was securely attached.
The system was about to respond but suddenly remembered it should close the interface as well. It fell silent instantly, reverting to the initial stage without saying a word.
In that instant after affixing the sign, the surrounding area echoed with the sound of horns, and the lights around flickers intermittently.
Chu Qianze opened his eyes slightly, feeling a bit bewildered. Glancing around, he was unsure whether to proceed forward. Coupled with his innocent appearance, it made people can’t help but stifle a chuckle.
The staff couldn’t hold back and pointed to the exit beside him, signaling him to continue.
The others who were already on stage also sensed this cue. They exchanged glances, not understanding what was happening.
Yu Xiaoyang, who played the role of both mentor and host, currently wore a smile. “It seems we have our first contestant who self-evaluates as an A.”
“We’ve been waiting for so long; I wonder who it is.” Wu Tiao casually flipped her hair over her shoulder, showing some interest.
“Oh, so self-evaluating as an A has a special effect? That’s really cool!”
Getao straightened up and looked towards the entrance. “Please, let him come on stage quickly.”
And this scene was being broadcast in real-time in various waiting rooms.
Trainees were discussing it, wondering who was so bold. The previous contestants were so talented, yet they were only evaluated as Bs by the mentors. In such a situation, daring to self-assess as an A, it was unclear if it was confidence or arrogance.
Generally, self-evaluating as an A could indeed grab attention and make a strong first impression. However, if the actual performance doesn’t match the confidence, for example, if the mentor doesn’t give an A after the performance, it can create a significant gap in the audience’s perception and may ultimately backfire.
In the show, the rankings were determined by the audience’s votes. If the perception was off, and nobody voted for you, you could end up being eliminated.
In the current atmosphere, which emphasized harmony, many contestants preferred a more balanced and cautious approach, as it was better than making a mistake.
Rong Jinghe stood in a corner of the resting room, engaging in warm-up exercises. He silently stretched, the diamond earclip sparkling under the lights, and his back and arms formed exquisite curves. Simultaneously, he went through vocal warm-ups to ensure that he was in optimal condition.
When he heard the sound of the horns, he paused his movements, glancing towards the screen, diverting some of his attention.
He was also quite curious about who was so bold as to directly choose A.
Chu Qianze walked out of the corridor amidst the attention of the trainees. When facing the crowd, he smiled, his eyes clear and bright, exuding a cleanliness characteristic of youth.
Arriving at the center of the stage, he bent down to bow to everyone and then straightened up, placing the microphone in front of him.
“Hello, mentors and everyone. I am Chu Qianze, a trainee from Qian Guo Entertainment.”
On the system interface, ellipses appeared and disappeared, then reappeared, cycling back and forth, perfectly interpreting the confusion within the system.
Is this my host?
In the recording venue, due to the presence of cameras, the trainees were quite reserved, expressing their welcome. The atmosphere in the resting room, however, was a bit more relaxed.
The moment Chu Qianze appeared, discussions erupted in the resting room.
“Chu Qianze? He looks quite young.” Someone unfamiliar with him.
“Yeah, probably quite young.” Another person who didn’t recognize him.
“The one we saw in the cockpit earlier, right?” Riding the Rong Jinghe’s waves by forming a CP is quite a gossip. Well, aren’t we all here for gossip?
“Oh, I think he’ll be impressive. He has a certain style about him.”
“Him choosing A is indeed not a problem.” Who would vote for him anyway? Choosing A is just a way to increase exposure.
“What do you mean? Is he very talented?”
“You’ll see when he performs.” If he fails to match his evaluation, then he’s not worth worrying about.
At the sight of Chu Qianze, Rong Jinghe’s eyebrows instinctively furrowed.
He remembered this person—encountered not long ago in the cockpit. When he approached, his identity was revealed, and he gave the person an autograph.
The next day, pictures of the two surfaced, and there was inexplicably a ship name among fans. There was probably someone manipulating things behind the scenes.
He wasn’t fond of publicity stunts, and this matter wasn’t easy to clarify directly through a post. He could only let the hype die down on its own.
Now that this person was on the show, what did he want to achieve? Keep fueling the hype?
The feeling of being sucked dry by scrutiny was truly repulsive. If this person was genuinely participating in the show, fine, but if he had other motives…
Rong Jinghe’s gaze turned colder.
No longer in the mood to continue watching, he withdrew his gaze and silently reviewed the content of his upcoming performance.
At the performance venue.
After hearing Chu Qianze’s self-introduction, Yu Xiaoyang nodded and went straight to the point, “Now, please begin your talent showcase.”
“Alright.”
Chu Qianze didn’t waste any time; he gestured towards the backstage and headed in that direction.
Turning his back to the audience, he leaned slightly to the left, eyes half-closed, and his thick lashes cast a shadow.
As the accompaniment began, the surrounding lights dimmed, and neon lights on the side illuminated. The side profile left for the audience now appeared somewhat blurred, yet the white shirt stood out, making the entire scene youthful and dreamy.
It was a classic song, mainly telling the story of a first love during youth.
A slightly upbeat yet somewhat melancholic melody echoed throughout the venue.
Chu Qianze closed his eyes, and when the prelude ended, he sang the first line of lyrics with precise rhythm.
With just the opening line, he drew people into the story.
[In our student days, dressed in the simplest school uniforms, carrying the most genuine affections.]
[The first time I saw you, you were standing by the window in the corridor, holding a book in your hands, with a quiet and earnest demeanor that made it impossible to look away. My heart was pounding, and I stood there, dumbfounded, gazing at you for a long time until the class bell rang, waking me from my dream.]
[I began unconsciously seeking your presence. You were diligent in your studies, even reading during breaks; you weren’t much into sports, often slacking off during gym class; when you smiled, there was a small dimple at the corner of your mouth; when you were angry, your brow would furrow tightly; when you were sad, you’d eat a piece of chocolate by yourself…]
With the melody, Chu Qianze’s body began to move slowly. There were no intricate moves, yet the transitions were smooth, creating a visually pleasing and seamless performance.
The song, coupled with the movements, conveyed the hidden and pure affection of that young person, carrying endless tenderness and fondness.
[We discussed topics, chatted about everything, cheered each other on, and encouraged one another, full of expectations for the future.]
First love is the most vibrant poem of youth.
This song is a reflection on one’s first love, lamenting the beauty and innocence of that time. Liking someone meant liking them, and not liking meant not liking—love and hate were clear-cut, very straightforward.
First love is sweet, and vague affection is also sweet. They become even more beautiful and precious as time settles them. As time flies, the moment you unearth your graduation photos, you can’t help but be filled with emotion.
The entire song carries a gentle reminiscence, a subtle melancholy.
Fingers against the earlobes, a slow wave, he turned towards the direction where the mentors and trainees were.
The lights gradually brightened, illuminating the surroundings.
What was once a dim emotion became clear. The camera zoomed in as Chu Qianze looked at everyone, raising his hand toward them. The smooth joints of his moistened fingers shone in the light, his eyes filled with tenderness and affection.
As the music ended, there was a moment of silence in the venue before Yuxiao Yang led the applause.
Chu Qianze composed his emotions, placed the microphone down, and stood still, patiently awaiting the mentors’ feedback.
“Your performance was… um, Getao, you go first,” Yu Xiaoyang prepared to speak, then saw Getao pick up the microphone and put it down again, gesturing for him to go ahead.
Getao didn’t decline and looked at Chu Qianze for a moment, letting out a sigh.
“To be honest, I’m not very good with words. Regarding the singing just now, I can only say you’re the best I’ve heard so far, perhaps even the most moving throughout the entire program. Your singing feels like breathing, very natural—it’s as if you brought the song to life, you know? There’s emotion in it, making it easy for people to resonate.”
His idle right hand made a grabbing motion in the air, as if trying to find the right adjective. After a while, he failed to come up with one and could only regretfully give up.
“I feel like you’re a person with a story, at least in the interpretation of this song, there’s nothing to criticize. However, learning is endless, and I look forward to your future performances.”
“Song Getao’s praise is quite high.”
Yu Xiaoyang turned to look at Wu Tiao beside him, “Wu Tiao, is there anything you’d like to say? Your expression was particularly immersed while watching the performance.”
Wu Tiao pushed her long hair to one side, then looked at Chu Qianze, “The dance difficulty isn’t high; the challenge lies in how naturally you can showcase the movements. Your expressiveness is excellent, giving me a feeling of being effortlessly adept. To borrow Song Getao’s words just now, I look forward to your future performances; don’t let us down.”
Chu Qianze picked up the microphone, pursed his lips, and seemed a bit embarrassed. “Thank you.”
[Host, excellent acting] the system couldn’t help but interject.
‘Shut up. Right now, your host is a shy and adorable sweet boy,’ Chu Qianze’s expression remained unchanged.
“The praise is quite high,” a member from the back remarked.
“I was so stunned at the time; I didn’t even want to speak.”
“This should be an A, right?”
“I’m not sure… After all, the highest now is only a B.”
Yu Xiaoyang picked up the microphone, took a moment, and then exhaled. “It feels like you’ve said everything, so what more is there for me to add? Like the two teachers said, learning is endless, and your journey is still far ahead. Keep up the good work.”
Chu Qianze nodded, “I will.”
“Let’s discuss the rating for a moment,” Yu Xiaoyang said, putting down the microphone and quietly discussing with the other mentors.
After a moment, he cleared his throat, picked up the microphone, and said, “After our discussion, Chu Qianze, your result is—”
The trainees held their breath, waiting for the outcome. Chu Qianze shifted his posture, giving the other leg a break.
Yu Xiaoyang prolonged his tone, lengthening it even more, and finally leaned forward, teasing, “What do you think it will be?”
This suspenseful moment was well played.
Chu Qianze glanced down at his own sign, pointing to it. “I chose this.”
Yu Xiaoyang asked, “You think you’re an A?”
“I hope so,” Chu Qianze replied with a somewhat shy smile.
“Alright, you get an A!”
Yu Xiaoyang revealed the result, “Congratulations, you’re the first A-class trainee on the show!”
Chu Qianze bowed, expressing his gratitude.
“Now, please choose your seat. After this round, where do you think you’ll be sitting?” Yu Xiaoyang, as the host, began to engage.
“Then I’ll go over directly.” Chu Qianze scanned the area, lifted his long legs, and walked towards the trainee seats.
“What do you think he’ll choose?” Yu Xiaoyang shifted the topic.
“Daring to choose an A, he must be in the top eight at least,” Wu Tiao looked back, curious about Chu Qianze’s choice.
Then, she watched as Chu Qianze walked down the steps and took a seat in the lower row.
???
You, an A-class trainee, sitting in the 108th position?
Yu Xiaoyang laughed and asked Chu Qianze, “Why did you choose that?”
Chu Qianze blinked and said, “Because it’s the closest to the stage, and I can see better from here.”
What kind of reason is that?
The crowd burst into laughter.
“Just kidding,” Chu Qianze chuckled, adjusting his seating position. “Because I really want to be first, but it’s not very realistic right now, so I might as well sit here.”
“That’s quite a difference,” Yu Xiaoyang remarked.
“Not quite, just two more words than first,” Chu Qianze said.
“At least you’re a member of Class A, have some confidence in yourself,” Getao joined the conversation.
“I do have confidence,” Chu Qianze sighed lightly, spreading his hands in a somewhat helpless gesture. “If we could give negative scores to the trainees, I’d definitely be first.”
After all, they’re just some haters.
Laughter erupted in the venue.
The director looked at the camera and thought Chu Qianze was quite good at playing along. This added a nice touch to the show.
“Who is this? Seems pretty good.”
“Chu Qianze from Qian Guo Entertainment,” someone nearby brought up his information.
The director glanced at it. “Keep an eye on him.”
It was the turn for the next trainee to perform.
Chu Qianze wasn’t entirely wrong about his seat choice. This position provided a good view, directly facing the entrance, allowing him to be the first to see the contestants.
Several more teams performed, one of them at the B level, while the others were distributed among C, D, and F.
If it weren’t for the occasional turn of the nearby camera to capture his reactions, Chu Qianze might have already found himself succumbing to yawns.
Adhering to professional etiquette and maintaining the image of a shy and introverted young man, he beamed with a smile and enthusiastically applauded each contestant.
[Host…]
‘Hmm?’
[When will you switch back? Although, the cringe-worthy character is not bad, I can’t take it anymore.]
‘Didn’t you say it would be troublesome that way?’
[It’s fine now. It looks too awkward, and at this rate, my data will get messed up.]
‘Oh, then let’s wait until the shooting is over.’
[How much longer until it’s over?]
‘We’re about halfway through now. Calculate it yourself.’
[…I’ll take my leave for now.]
‘Go ahead.’
Finally, Rong Jinghe took the stage.
He performed his original song, his voice cold, gaze aloof, but the dance was explosive. The strong contrast created a powerful and captivating effect, unsurprisingly earning him an A level.
“Now, please choose your seat,” Yuxiao Yang said.
Rong Jinghe nodded slightly to the mentors and walked towards the trainee seats.
Chu Qianze sat in the corner, next to the entrance where people inevitably passed by. After nodding in acknowledgment to those around him, he didn’t invest much thought into interactions. His attention had already shifted to the next contestant, Dou Xi.
When Rong Jinghe walked past Chu Qianze, he glanced at him. The other person greeted him, but there was no further interaction.
If he was here just to ride on the show’s popularity, he should have taken the opportunity to chat earlier. So, was the other person here just to participate in the program? Was the goal to secure the first place…
At this moment, Rong Jinghe had already reached the top row.
According to his original plan, he was supposed to sit in seats 2 to 6. Typically, he should have moved sideways by now. However, looking at the vacant throne at the very top and recalling Chu Qianze’s performance just now, he mysteriously took a step and sat down at the very top.
“Rong Jinghe chose the first position!” the trainees exclaimed.
Chu Qianze, upon hearing this, turned to look back.
At this point, he exclaimed, ‘The competition is fierce.’
[Hmm?]
‘He’s basically saying, “I must secure the first position.”‘ With a slight smirk, Chu Qianze turned back, readjusting his position to face the stage.
[Host, defeat him! You can do it!]
‘It’s a bit challenging, considering my current fanbase is practically negative.’
[Huh?]
‘One negative fan counters ten positive ones1means the impact of a negative comment or fan can be stronger than positive ones., so—’
[…You’re in a tough spot.]
‘So, chatting with me is practically like a nap for a nickel.’
Later on, Chu Qianze continued to play the role of a warm-up angel on the surface, engaging in casual banter with the system while occasionally adjusting his sitting posture.
Duo Xi, having not practiced singing and dancing before, ended up in Class F. This made Chu Qianze understand that the other party probably had a script for a comeback.
Finally, all the performances came to an end.
“Now that everyone has received their respective ratings, it doesn’t mean much. This is just the beginning, and no one can predict the future. A-class students, don’t be complacent, keep it up. B-class students, you’re the closest to A-class, strive to pull them down in the next evaluation! Other students, keep working hard, strive to stand out in the next ranking.
For everyone in F-class, don’t be discouraged. In the days ahead, as long as you’re willing to put in effort, you will see results. Rising to C or D or even A is possible. Your hard work will pay off.”
“Next, we have a task for everyone.” Yu Xiaoyang clapped his hands and signaled for the large screen to come down.
“Later, we will play the theme song of our program, ‘Dream Sailing’ You have three days to learn it. After three days, we will evaluate you again based on your performance. Want a higher rating? Your opportunity has come. A-class, be careful not to fall behind.”
Yu Xiaoyang scanned the surroundings and continued, “Now, let’s start playing the video.”
As the play button was pressed, the large screen began playing the dance routine.
The participants stared at the movements displayed on the screen. Some attempted to follow along, but after a few beats, they realized they couldn’t keep up and had to give up.
Chu Qianze watched the screen intently. His mind processed the video frame by frame, meticulously breaking down the dance moves. With heightened focus, one of his hands naturally rose as he mimicked the dance moves. If one paid close attention, they would notice that he was replicating the instructional video almost identically.
All of this was being thoroughly recorded by the cameras.
Dressed in a pure white shirt with a neat hairstyle, despite being in the most youthful state, Chu Qianze exuded a unique charm when he was focused. Aware of the cameras capturing his movements, he snapped back to reality, halted his actions, and looked sideways, squinting slightly.
As the video concluded, the first round of filming for the show was complete, and it was already past three in the morning.
“Debut, Trainee!” adopted a centralized filming mode, requiring everyone to be at the designated location from noon until six in the evening.
After getting settled, Chu Qianze took a nap upon returning, woke up, had a meal, and packed his belongings. At exactly 5 o’clock, he arrived at the designated location provided in the notice.
Chu Qianze went back and took a nap, then woke up to eat something and packed his belongings. At exactly 5 o’clock, he arrived at the designated location specified in the notification.
It was an apartment; following the instructions from the staff, he entered the exclusive area for Class A.
After receiving the room key and expressing his gratitude, Chu Qianze used the key to open the door and walked in with his luggage.
Looking around, he observed a spacious room, a four-person dormitory with bunk beds and desks, which seemed quite satisfactory.
Three desks were already occupied, and it seemed like he was the last one.
There was no one in the room, and he didn’t know where everyone else had gone.
Arriving at the only vacant spot, Chu Qianze placed his luggage down, intending to go to the bathroom to wash his hands.
He opened the bathroom door, and as he looked up, he saw a man with his back turned, standing under the shower with soap bubbles all over his body.
Huh?
Chu Qianze was momentarily stunned.
Rong Jinghe was using shower gel when he heard the sound and turned around. His expression quickly turned cold, accompanied by a hint of displeasure.
“Get out.”
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