Chapter 172: A Coveted Prize—This Must Be Talent!

Originally, it was thought that Bai Ling’s identity was the biggest revelation. Yet unexpectedly, Bai Ling once again brought news of a new work.

Everyone held Bai Ling’s works in high regard. What is this called? Reputation! Whether it’s the Crown Princess or these songs, aren’t they all proof of Bai Ling’s good name?

Therefore, although people teased Leng Yan for once again standing up for Bai Ling, they still expressed their support when it mattered.

As a result, even though the show was nearing its end, the live stream’s popularity continued to rise alongside the increasing number of viewers and the growing flood of comments.

Director Wu Youliang watched the surge in popularity with clenched fists, his excitement growing as the numbers climbed to a staggering fifty million.

He was so moved he could hardly speak. Not only was this rare in the fiercely competitive music variety show scene, but even the new trending slow-paced or phenomenon-level hit shows rarely achieved such figures.

Looking up at the sky, Wu Youliang sighed with deep emotion. “Ah, my life has been worthwhile.”

The staff nearby were equally thrilled but also helplessly amused at their director’s reaction.

“Is it really necessary to be this excited?”

Wu Youliang rolled his eyes. “What do you know? This excitement is exactly what’s needed!”

“I need to start planning the next show, and I must invite Bai Ling again.”

“Hahaha!”

“You guys go ahead. When Bai Ling steps off the stage, have her wait for me a moment—I want to discuss a collaboration.”

Wu Youliang was anxious. If Bai Ling’s schedule filled up or someone else snapped her up for their show first, what then?

This prize catch couldn’t just be taken by anyone.

Speaking of which, Bai Ling had offended Wang Dagang, which meant offending a whole wave of directors. But in reality, directors came in different ranks and pursued different paths.

Wu Youliang was a professional variety show director, distinct from those who made dramas or films. Bai Ling had rubbed the directors in Wang Dagang’s circle the wrong way, but what did that matter? Film directors often looked down on variety show directors like Wu Youliang.

Bai Ling’s falling out with them—and her defiance of Wang Dagang and his ilk—was something Wu Youliang couldn’t help but applaud.

He wasn’t alone; most variety show directors felt the same.

So it was very likely that Bai Ling might be snatched away to appear on another program, causing scheduling conflicts.

Wu Youliang even suspected that by now someone had already contacted Chunqiu Company and Bai Ling’s agent, Ge Fenfen.

After giving instructions, Wu Youliang felt something was amiss.

“Keep an eye on things for now. When the results are announced, just release the votes as planned.”

“I don’t need to monitor what happens afterward.”

“I must quickly call Ge Fenfen!”

With that, he rushed off to make the call.

The production staff looked baffled and helpless.

“Is it really that urgent?”

Wu Youliang gave them a glare. “What do you know?”

“This urgency is necessary!”

...

On stage, the judges continued chatting casually. They still had some time before the final vote count was revealed.

They joked about the father-daughter rapport between Bai Ling and Leng Yan, much to Leng Yan’s chagrin.

Bai Ling couldn’t help but join in.

“Mr. Leng, since you treat me so sincerely, I’m willing to call you my sworn father!”

Leng Yan rolled his eyes. “Then you’ll be gloomy, can’t stand being under others, and look for a chance to stab me in the back, huh?”

“You little brat, joining them in teasing me.”

“I even spoke up for you!”

Han Guangming watched the young ones’ playful bickering, wanting to join but lacking the right words.

After a while, he gave up and returned to more professional questions.

“Bai Ling, how do you achieve that vocal transformation?”

“Is there a special technique? Could you share it?”

Teacher Li Yuanhong asked.

“Yes, tell us, so Han and I can secretly learn from you,” he added.

Bai Ling smiled wryly. “Please don’t tease me, teachers.”

“I honestly can’t sum up any particular technique…”

“How to say this…”

She was reluctant to say more, but the judges all understood.

“Don’t ask anymore. It’s a sad story. It’s clearly innate talent.”

“We could never learn it.”

Bai Ling laughed helplessly. “You’re making me embarrassed.”

The judges chuckled softly.

Watching Bai Ling like this was truly entertaining.

Many viewers couldn’t help but comment.

“A singer’s show really suits Bai Ling better.”

“The key is no one is maliciously targeting her.”

“Yeah, most singers love music and are genuine people.”

“Some singers may have character flaws, but in the shows Bai Ling participates in, everyone appreciates her talent.”

“Indeed, Bai Ling feels like the group’s favorite here, unlike actor-focused shows where she wasn’t well received.”

“Well, Bai Ling is still a new actress, and with all the issues in the Crown Princess drama, despite the traffic and buzz, many still hold biases.”

“Gold will always shine. I believe Bai Ling will prove herself.”

“As a fan, I will firmly stand with Bai Ling.”

...

Finally, the host began to act.

After waiting for a while, they received Bai Ling’s vote count.

It was time to announce the program’s final segment.

All the performers stepped onto the stage, some whispering, others showing anticipation.

The host said, “Through the spectacular performances presented by our esteemed teachers, all the listeners and judges have chosen their favorite singers.”

“Now, the voting results will be revealed.”

“The live audience cast 300 votes, one each.”

“The 12 judges together contribute 600 votes.”

“As for the online viewers, due to the large number and no limits on multiple votes per person, there will be some overflow. Rankings will be based on vote counts, with different placements earning varying points.”

“The final total is 2,000 votes!”

“First, the singer Zhou Tao received 1,350 votes!”

Zhou Tao stepped forward to express his gratitude, very satisfied with the score.

“Second, singer Zhu Yuning, 1,432 votes!”

Zhu Yuning was even happier, winking at Zhou Tao.

They were friends, so this was natural.

Everyone eagerly awaited how many votes Bai Ling would secure out of the 2,000.

(End of chapter)