Chapter 178
Chu Wangshu, whose rank was B, was less popular and performed worse than her four teammates. Only her former roommate came to talk to her, so she was happy to have some peace and quiet.
As for that Green Eyed Cat...
Well, when the first person came, she imagined the scene of being talked to, and she panicked for a moment. In order to save social energy, she simply buried herself in Chu Yuanqing's arms and pretended to be dead.
Chu Yuanqing didn't suspect that she was being taken advantage of; she just thought the cat was adorable. While earnestly answering other people's questions, she gently stroked Liuli's head with her little hand. For a moment, the scene gave off the feeling of a young mother holding her shy daughter and chatting with her neighbors.
Distance.
As soon as Ji Shuzhu stepped into the multimedia classroom, she caught sight of the group being fawned over. She subconsciously touched her swollen lips with her fingertips and suddenly had an idea. She deliberately stopped and looked at the aloof Stage Tyrant and the dazzling Chu Yuanqing with a nostalgic gaze.
Chen Yining initially puzzled, but then she perfectly followed the choreographer's train of thought and imagined something. She was so angry that she gritted her teeth. She restrained the urge to pin the other person to a corner in public, stepped over the other person's body, grabbed Ji Shuzhu's fair wrist, and walked a little faster in a huff, not letting the other person continue to watch.
Lin Bao'er was completely confused.
Ruan Wutong toyed with her purple-streaked hair with her fingertips, finding this method of revenge utterly fascinating.
Liang Xiaoxiao took everything in view, and felt that Xiao Qing's team seemed to have become a prop for the romance between the two childhood sweethearts, which had a kind of awkward beauty.
Then, the girl slowed her pace and focused her gaze on Chu Yuanqing, who was surrounded by four people in the center and a group of trainees around him. She was overwhelmed with mixed feelings.
Although they had only been separated for a month, she felt a sense of melancholy, as if things had changed and people were no longer the same.
Liang Xiaoxiao understood that this short period of time was enough to create an even greater chasm between her and Chu Yuanqing.
Whether it's Tang Liuli, a child prodigy with over 100 million fans and top-tier vocal talent.
She is backed by a top domestic entertainment company, has a rich family background, strong abilities, and is a top-tier beauty and physique, earning her the nickname "The Great Demon King" (or "The Demon Xie Qingxuan" ).
Or perhaps it's Kiriwake Yayoi, who spent seven years as a peripheral idol in Island Nation, experiencing the lowest point but still rising to the challenge with unwavering faith and a lifelong love for the stage.
These people are all too dazzling, and too extraordinary.
Birds of a feather flock together; only an outstanding girl like her is qualified to maintain a long-term relationship with someone as wonderful as Chu Yuanqing.
As for himself?
Liang Xiaoxiao understood. She was too ordinary. Her voice, appearance, dancing and singing skills, and even her education were worlds apart from theirs.
We were never from the same world; it was just that the <Flash Dance> platform was too big, and she was too lucky, which led her to accidentally stumble into their place and glimpse a landscape she had never seen before.
However, the fairy godmother's magic had a time limit, and Cinderella was still penniless after midnight.
"It's time for you to face reality."
A voice inside me has been saying this over and over again.
Liang Xiaoxiao initially tried to struggle, and even after repeated failures, she still felt unwilling to give up.
Even when relegated to the waiting area, a lingering obsession remained deep within their seemingly numb hearts.
Ironically, that meeting with Chu Yuanqing completely shattered her obsession, leaving her like a leaf blown away by the wind, utterly dejected.
That pure white Heart Tide of emotion did indeed compensate for the lack of calamity, allowing her to step into the realm of [Flow State], but it also shattered all the pride in her heart like a heavy hammer blow.
Because...
This means that all her efforts have been in vain compared to Chu Yuanqing's meager charity and favor. And what right does she have to even dream of standing beside him?
Liang Xiaoxiao suppressed her emotions, turned her gaze, and followed her teammates' steps, passing Chu Yuanqing's row of seats, walking straight ahead, like water flowing without leaving a trace.
Chu Yuanqing, with her sharp eyes, spotted a familiar figure through the gaps between the trainees, but before she could speak, the person disappeared from sight like a fish swimming into the ocean.
Soon, the words of the others made her forget about them, and she buried her thoughts of greeting them deep in her heart.
Ten minutes later, most of the people around me had dispersed.
Although the trainees understood that, apart from Xie Qingxuan, even if a normal person felt uncomfortable, they would not say anything because of the camera.
But the fans of these popular contestants aren't stupid. Even if their posts are edited into the show, if they get too clingy, they'll be criticized, attacked, and insulted, which won't have much of a positive effect. Not everyone can make a living by being infamous.
In addition, the popularity of high-profile contestants is very important.
If we're reassigned to different teams later, and the other team notices me, it might change my fate.
Liang Xiaoxiao is the best example of this in other people's eyes. The other party's personal level is just so-so, which is very much in line with the D-Class positioning, but she was able to be dragged into their team by the Young Lady of Yunlan Entertainment. No matter how you look at it, it is all due to nepotism.
At 5 p. m. sharp, all 168 contestants had arrived.
Since only a few people didn't form teams, most people were just nervous, wondering if there would be any surprises in the second Public Performance.
The Dream Weaver Rabbit arrived as promised. As always, it surveyed each contestant's expression, its scarlet eyes brimming with laughter, its exaggerated upward grin clapping in admiration.
"The contract officially expires in January, and the battle for teammates has come to an end."
"During this period, I watched a total of 827 Stage Battle."
"Although 60% of them are garbage that wastes the mentors' time and virtual reality equipment, and 20% are bland vegetarian fast food, it cannot be denied that there are also some that are breathtaking and can be called a shining stage of art!"
"Besides the A-Class contestants who have already revealed their dazzling talent, there are also many trainees who have struggled to rise from the low-level environment. What has created this miracle is the Idol Domain called [Flow State]!"
After the words were spoken, the atmosphere among the remaining contestants, except for a few, became tense.
They had to admit it.
The existence of [Flow State] brought too many unexpected elements to this battle for teammates.
Especially for some B-Class players at the top of the food chain, many of whom have become stepping stones for the other's rise to fame, they naturally remember this vividly and are extremely resentful.
It's safe to say that no one in the current arena doesn't want to step into the realm of "Flow State."
The PK live streams over the past month have revealed so much; the number of trainees entering this field has now reached double digits.
Everyone understands that to compete for Debut Spot, or even the Center position, achieving "Flow State" is an essential ticket; otherwise, there is absolutely no chance of turning the tide in subsequent stage battles!
The key point is that the battle for teammates is over, and the hope that Dream Weaver Rabbit initially expressed—the [Flow State] development lab—should logically close down as well.
In other words, they are essentially players who are a version behind, and have missed a major opportunity.
The Dream Weaver Rabbit smiled expectantly and said softly:
"[Flow State] What a beautiful power, what a dazzling miracle! I believe that players who have stepped into this field have already tasted its magic and truly understood how big the gap was between themselves and some of the top players."
"So, you must be very curious about how to increase the power of [Flow State], right?"
"The answer is to create an even better stage! To create a more Shining Stage! To create an unpredictable stage! Only when ideals and efforts bear fruit, and you successfully surpass the past, will you truly understand what the realm of top idols is!"
PS: Waaaaah, my sleep schedule is so messed up it's practically on its own.
P. S.: I don't know why there are so many dislikes in the tags. If you have time, please give it a like. Also, it's almost the end of the month, so please vote with any free razor blades or votes you have!
Volume 1: 172. The Golden Haired Doggy Prepares for a Night Raid, the Rules of the Second Public Performance. (6K5)
The Live Broadcast Room started simultaneously with Dream Weaver Rabbit's speech, as is customary, and millions of viewers were already listening to the Super AI's passionate remarks, prompting a flurry of comments and feedback.
"What exactly are the components of the AI module in Dream Weaver Rabbit? There are too many elements."
"It's really something else. Red-eyed Rabbit may be a bit of a jerk, but he's still the chief mentor for the <Flash Dance> project. The AI's initial design was definitely biased towards idols and the stage itself. You know what, it actually does have that idol anime vibe???"
"Isn't <FlashDance> already more outrageous than a normal idol anime? The first round was alright, but in the second round of the teammate selection battle, [Flow State] was everywhere, completely evolving to the level of <Revue Starring>."
"Waaaaah, the teammate-stealing segment introduced in the show is really amazing! Nearly a thousand stage battles in this month have fulfilled the dreams of many show fans, and also the dreams of many trainees to repeatedly step onto the stage, burn with passion, and sweat profusely."
"Because the end will eventually come, we burn brightly in the present moment."
"That's true. Although many contestants will eventually be eliminated, in the battle for teammates, Flash Dance truly gave everyone the opportunity to speak, Stage Battle, and win on the stage. Even if there are regrets, it will be a magnificent exit like a rainbow."
"Stop talking, I almost forgot that this round will end and we'll be officially eliminated. I wonder how many trainees will have their dreams shattered and be forced to leave the stage???"
Isn't that what dreams are all about? Unattainable, and therefore shining?
Even though Dream Weaver Rabbit hasn't mentioned the relevant details, viewers who know the rules understand that not all 168 contestants can advance, and there will inevitably be some who won't be able to form a five-person team.
The fourth episode hasn't aired yet, and since "Flash Dance" only broadcasts live the Stage Battle involving A-Class contestants, who will be eliminated is a completely unpredictable surprise for the audience.
Of course, Chu Yuanqing's team is an exception. Their advancement was witnessed by millions of viewers, and their performances are still being discussed by netizens on various platforms.
Well, on the other hand, Chen Yining's team, after Ji Shuzhu switched teams, failed to advance through the Stage Battle and naturally did not start a live broadcast, so it was somewhat confusing to the audience.
However, it's obvious that A-Class contestants can't be eliminated, so the ones who are panicking now are the fans of the other contestants and those viewers who would give a D grade to any pretty girl.
The trainees on site seemed to be deep in thought, and had some understanding of what Dream Weaver Rabbit.
Chu Yuanqing thought of something more. These words not only applied to the idols themselves, but also fit the definition of Magical Girl's idealism. Perhaps the high-pressure environment created by <Flash Dance> was meant to ignite the most fervent desire for dreams in the hearts of the Little Idol.
Only by steadfastly upholding this belief and repeatedly entering a state of highly concentrated immersion with this desire can one possibly create a phenomenon known as "Heart Tide" and weave a miracle called "the Cocoon of the Heart."
Therefore, it requires pressure, involution, external impetus, and self-transformation.
All the seemingly wicked and cruel rules in <Flash Dance> actually follow this core principle. If you follow the most righteous path and follow the path arranged by Dream Weaver Rabbit, you can naturally become the best Magical Girl while maintaining your idol status.
Unfortunately, among the current idols on the show, only Little Idol Kiriwake Yayoi is on the right path, driven purely by her dreams and dance, and has remained steadfast in her will to keep moving forward.
Even if the others are no less skilled than her in [Flow State], and even if they have better aptitude as Magical Girl, it wouldn't be difficult for them to transform to that level in the most orthodox, stable, and conventional way.
But...
Chu Yuanqing could see that the troubled children around him were actually gradually falling in love with this industry.
For example, Tang Liuli wants to break free from the shadows of the past and earnestly reciprocate the fans' feelings as an idol.
For example, Xie Qingxuan, whose obsessive desires remain unchanged, has begun to experience the joy of the stage and has become more vivid and lively.
Both of them changed themselves on stage; otherwise, Tang Liuli would not have used "Flow State" to express her true thoughts and feelings to the audience, and Xie Qingxuan would not have chosen to return all her brilliance on stage, sketching out that dreamlike picture.
Therefore, the planning of <FlashDance> may not be without reason.
Chu Yuanqing began to feel something was strange. She gradually realized that neither the Dream Weaver Rabbit, as a Super AI, nor the design of the entire <Flash Dance> project seemed to treat idols and the stage as mere shells to cultivate Magical Girl, but rather to genuinely value them.
Even if the authorities reveal the truth to the Little Idol, will they still allow them to continue performing on stage?
The Green Eyed Cat, unaware of its "master's" thoughts, showed no interest in the Dream Weaver Rabbit promises. Instead, it confidently rubbed its face against the Pure White Witch's skirt, where the shape and curve of her thighs were perfect, full and soft. It felt as if it were sealed by Qing Bao's thighs, unable to get up at all!
Little Sakura looked on with a deep gaze, a cold laugh running through her mind. Foolish Liuli Cat Cat, just keep lying on Xiao Qing's lap. Sooner or later, your status will revert to that of a harmless pet.
--Giving someone a handicap when appropriate is also a tactic!
The Golden Haired Doggy was a little envious, but also felt that its "mentor" lacked practical experience. They'd already tried lap pillows; shouldn't they be trying something more exciting now?
Chu Wangshu felt incredibly embarrassed and began to doubt whether she had idolized the wrong person. She couldn't help but poke Tang Liuli's soft, collagen-rich face, and her heart softened as she was completely charmed.
Although Liuli doesn't have the demeanor of her seniors at all, she's very cute.
Because it's so cute, I didn't choose the wrong fan.
Chu Yuanqing felt an itch on the inside of her thigh from the other person's breath. The soft flesh hidden in the shadow of her skirt tingled with a tingling sensation. She couldn't help but lean back slightly, and then quietly covered the Social Anxiety Cat's mouth and nose with her hand to prevent the other person's breath from continuing to tickle her.
To avoid suffocating, the Green Eyed Cat could only shift her head towards her knees. She lowered her thick, fan-like eyelashes melancholically, feeling as if she had missed out on a precious, innocent treasure. Sadly, she buried her face in the hem of her skirt and took a deep breath.
Chu Yuanqing's expression was solemn. She pursed her lips, feeling that she could no longer indulge in this. She immediately tapped Tang Liuli's head gently with her small hand, and then pinched her soft cheeks hard as if kneading dough, as a warning.
Kiriwake Yayoi was somewhat dissatisfied; she gritted her teeth in bitterness.
Damn it, Liuli is already like this, Xiao Qing, why are you still rewarding her!
Chu Wangshu caught a glimpse of this scene out of the corner of her eye. On the surface, she continued to straighten her back, like a good student listening attentively, looking at the Dream Weaver Rabbit in the distance. But behind her back, she couldn't help but reach out and pinch Tang Liuli's cheek.
Xie Qingxuan watched this scene, lost in thought.
So... smelling it can also make Xiao Qing feel something?
Because there were four A-Class contestants here, almost all of the Little Idol's interactions were recorded clearly in the Live Broadcast Room, resulting in a flood of comments:
"Seriously, they're sticking together like that in public? I don't even want to think about what they do behind the scenes???"
"This team seems so harmonious, almost like a family of five, they're all so cute!"
"A family of five? Let's assume Liuli is the pet, Yue Bao is the daughter, and Xiao Qing is the mother. Then the question is, who is the Dad in 'The Great Demon King and Little Sakura'???"
"The answer is monogamy, one Qing Bao and one wife, and one Qing Bao, right???"
"Genius! Discharged from the hospital!"
"Does Dream Weaver Rabbit know you guys are daydreaming in class? That's hilarious!"
"If this team can debut as a group, I feel like they'll have a ton of group fans???"
"Group fans? Are you sure it's not just a bunch of Qing Bao's CP fans? I seriously suspect they're all chaotic fans who imagine the team having Silver Party???"
Chu Yuanqing's popularity was ridiculously high, and his teammates were also at the top of the pyramid. This led to a chaotic mix of CP fans interpreting the interaction in all sorts of ways. For a time, everyone got to enjoy the sweetness, creating a world where only solo fans and Solo Fan fans got hurt.
"I'm furious! The thighs of the Qing God are so soft, so white, so smooth—they're sacred objects with perfect shapes! How could a mortal dare to defile them? Using the Qing God's mercy to do evil! This foolish child star will finally face his punishment!"