From Apocalypse To Entertainment Circle (BL)-Chapter 93: Speculations, Ships, and a Storm Brewing

While Sian didn’t care, others certainly did—especially the audience, who had been eagerly awaiting today’s broadcast. Although it was a "live show," there wasn’t much to see throughout the day—just a few shots of contestants training, glimpses of the judges before their appearances, or brief interactions when they guided the participants. That’s why viewers always looked forward to mealtime when they could see all the contestants gathered together.

After yesterday’s episode, the first-place winner had secured a spot in the second round, which would take place in a different location nine days later.

As mentioned before, each day produced a winner, totaling ten contestants who would move on. However, the second round required twenty participants, not just ten. From this, one could deduce that there was a second chance for those who had lost.

The mechanics of this second chance were quite simple.

Contestants were ranked by the judges from first to fourth place, with each placement earning increasing points: two points for fourth place, four points for third, six for second, and eight for first.

Afterward, these contestants were given a chance to perform on stage—not a singing performance, but any other type of act. Most would likely choose dancing, acrobatics, acting, or similar talents.

Finally, each participant could vote for the competitor they found most impressive. Naturally, each person had only one vote and could grant only one point. After tallying both audience and judge votes, the contestant with the highest score would win a seat in the second round.

***

The audience was eager to see the contestants’ faces. Even if they couldn’t interact with them, they were more than satisfied watching some drama unfold or admiring beautiful people as they ate.

Don’t ask why—fans had always been somewhat insane. Even if their favorite idol merely sneezed, they would scream with sparkling, adoring eyes. No comment on that. I have no idea why, so don’t expect an explanation.

As soon as the audience caught sight of the contestants, excitement flooded the chat.

[Ahhh! Sisters, it’s Sian! He looks amazing again today!]

[Just amazing? Even without makeup or designer clothes, his charm is unmatched.]

[Aww, my baby looks so happy eating. It’s making me drool! (Over the food, of course, not him, hehe.) You get what I mean?]

[Hehe, we get it, sis! We’re all drooling too.]

[Wait a second. Who are those two men picking out food and filling Sian’s plate every time?]

[Oh! I recognize one of them! He’s a contestant. Seems like a new idol since I’ve never seen him before. But the other guy... I have no idea.]

[Wait, hold up. Sh*t is that...?]

[Upper floor, no cursing! Why are you swearing?]

[Sorry, sis, but that’s Colonel Lan! Lan Qisheng! The same guy who was trapped in the jungle with Sian and worked with him and his team to rescue the hostages!]

[Oh my god, it really is him! My CP is finally reunited! I haven’t seen these two together in so long!]

[Yes, yes! I’ve always shipped them! But I haven’t heard anything about them lately. I almost forgot...]

[Bro, how could you forget the great Colonel who knelt on one knee before Sian in the jungle? That scene is burned into my memory forever!]

[Huh? Are you saying he proposed to Sian? But I don’t see a ring on Sian’s finger. Was the Colonel rejected?]

[Pfft! Proposed? When I think about that moment, I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.]

[You’re right, sis. Every time I rewatch the video, my hands itch. I want to slap Colonel Lan! Or at least lock him up with a mountain of romance novels so he can learn something!]

[Am I the only one who has no idea what you guys are talking about?]

[A love story born in a dangerous jungle full of terrorists and wild animals! If you want to see it, just search for the reality survival show on Weibo. The Sian clips are still trending, even after three whole months!]

[So, what is Colonel Lan doing here? Don’t tell me he changed jobs?]

[Hahaha! Good joke. He must have missed Sian and decided to follow him. Or maybe... they really are in a relationship?]

As if answering the flurry of heated speculation, the host, who had been silent until now, took the microphone and spoke in a cheerful tone.

"Good morning to all our contestants and our dear audience! We have an exciting announcement today. As you may have noticed, there is an unexpected guest at our breakfast table. Let’s welcome the CEO and mastermind behind the Lan Corporations—Lan Qisheng! As we all know, Lan Industries has spread across the entire country. But who would have thought that the man behind such vast wealth was also a devoted patriot? Instead of basking in luxury, he chose to serve as a soldier, defending his nation and its people. From the bottom of my heart, I offer my deepest respect and gratitude for your sacrifices and contributions, sir. Few men like you choose love for their country over love for themselves. You have our utmost admiration!"

After the host finished kissing up Lan Qisheng, the Colonel simply raised his glass in a polite toast, offering a well-mannered smile.

Of course, the host would have loved for the esteemed guest to say a few words live on air. Unfortunately for him, Lan Qisheng had already informed the director that he had no interest in speaking. Left with no choice, the host returned to his seat after adding a few more flattering remarks.

At that moment, Sian felt an intense, almost murderous gaze drilling into his face. He exhaled in mild exasperation before glancing up, only to be met with the sight of Song Zijian staring at him with bloodshot eyes, his teeth grinding together in frustration.

Sian: "..."

Now what? He hadn’t even done anything yet, had he?

What was with this green tea bastard? Had he suddenly switched roles to a petty villain for no reason?