At the office, several colleagues were bidding farewell to an old colleague.
This was the company's veteran accountant, who had turned sixty and was retiring due to poor eyesight.
The long-serving employee was deeply loved by everyone, and they were all reluctant to see him go.
"You didn't have to go to all this trouble for a farewell party," the accountant said, touched. "You're too kind."
The office had been decorated with a cake, balloons, and streamers, creating a festive atmosphere.
Suddenly, a young woman started singing.
"Through the years, alone, I've weathered the wind and rain..."
Everyone quickly joined in. The song was perfectly fitting for the occasion.
Having such an old friend was something worth cherishing for a lifetime.
"Friends walk together through life, those days will never return..."
As the chorus began, almost everyone in the office knew the lyrics. The accountant's eyes misted over.
Just then, Zhang Yiran stepped out of the elevator.
Hearing the song, her face instantly darkened.
The colleagues' expressions shifted slightly, and the singing abruptly stopped. Seeing Zhang Yiran's grim expression, they all understood what was happening.
This was Big Fei's song. Who gave them the courage to sing it at Sister Zhang's company? Deng Siqing?
Zhang Yiran walked in with a thunderous expression, shot them a cold glance, and turned into her office.
The group quickly wrapped up the farewell party. The old accountant carried the cake out of the office building.
When Sister Zhang got angry, the company atmosphere became truly oppressive.
*Can't we even sing Big Fei's song anymore?*
*If your own songs aren't as good as his, do you have to take it out on your employees?*
*If we hadn't paid for chart manipulation, "Sister Group" might have even fallen behind "Courage" on the charts.*
*This isn't the first time Big Fei's songs have topped the hot song charts. Before "Friend" was released, "Rakshasa Sea Market" also dominated the charts for a week.*
*That week was pure darkness for our company.*
*We didn't even dare to open the hot song charts, let alone mention anything about Big Fei.*
*Ever since she lost the "King of Singers" competition to Big Fei, Zhang Yiran has been like a powder keg, ready to explode at any moment.*
*These past few days have been even worse. With *Bright Sword* becoming a huge hit, everyone secretly watches it at home but dares not discuss it in the company group chat.*
It was just a casual conversation among colleagues smoking together, everyone careful not to let anything slip that could be used against them.
Zhang Yiran sat in her office, her face stretched long enough to rival a donkey's.
Zhang Yina said, "Yiran, don't get so worked up. Relax a little. Your attitude is making everyone uncomfortable."
Zhang Yiran sighed. "I can't control my temper."
"Just treat Big Fei like any other singer. Some competition is fine, but don't be so hostile. You don't want the staff gossiping about you behind your back."
"I'll try my best."
Zhang Yina pulled out a proposal and handed it to her.
"This is the Golden Phoenix Goddess Chart, jointly organized by the Literary Federation and CCTV-3. The voting starts tomorrow and lasts for a week."
"The requirements are that only female singers can participate, and they must have original songs. Each IP address can cast six votes, making it a great opportunity for promotion."
Zhang Yiran nodded. When she first heard about the event, her first thought was, *Finally, Big Fei won't be there.*
She had developed a phobia of him. Whenever he appeared, a hit song was guaranteed to follow.
Zhang Yina continued, "I've already registered you. This time, each goddess will have a sponsor, and I've secured one for you."
"Sponsors will base their sponsorship fees on rankings," Zhang Yina explained. "There's one price for the top ten, another for the top three, and the first and second places command even higher rates."
Zhang Yiran nodded. This event would not only boost her fame but also generate buzz for her new song. The higher-ranking participants would receive significantly more exposure, naturally leading to better advertising results for the sponsors.
These sponsors had grown smarter, tying their funding to performance. After all, the higher the ranking, the more effective the advertising.
Zhang Yiran suddenly said, "Yang Han will be our biggest competitor this time."
Having signed with Big Fei's company, Yang Han's new song was guaranteed to be well-supported. Her previous hit, "My Dear, That's Not Love," had been an absolute sensation. This time, she was her main rival on the Goddess Ranking.
Zhang Yina replied, "That song was indeed good quality. But this time, I've brought in the industry's top songwriting team. We'll craft an even better song for you. Don't worry."
Zhang Yiran nodded. She wasn't too worried about Yang Han. As long as she was willing to invest, the song's quality would be top-notch.
This time, she would definitely clash with Big Fei again!
***
Lu Duoduo had been staring at the computer screen for the entire afternoon. When she saw the newly released data, her eyes lit up.
"President Ji! *Bright Sword*'s recharge rate has reached 40%—an SS-level result!"
Ji Tienan also watched the screen, his face beaming with delight.
"Excellent! What about our software download numbers?"
"They've surged by ten million!"
Ji Tienan wasn't overly concerned about *Bright Sword*'s recharge rate. Their software had a relatively small user base—less than a tenth of Tianxun Video's. Even with a high recharge rate, such a small user base might not guarantee substantial sales. Increasing the software's download volume was the most direct way to boost growth.
Tianxun Video and Youmei Video had both surpassed one billion downloads, while they had only slightly over one hundred million—a completely different league in terms of scale. However, *Bright Sword*'s broadcast had significantly driven up their download numbers.
"Let's invest in some advertising, pour money into promotion, and see what events are happening lately," Ji Tienan said.
Lu Duoduo nodded quickly and began rapidly browsing the advertising platforms.
Suddenly, she spotted the Golden Phoenix Goddess Chart event.
"President Ji, look at this."
"The Golden Phoenix Goddess Chart? Interesting. We could sponsor it and see who we can support."
Lu Duoduo said, "Yang Han would definitely participate. With Big Fei writing her song, she's bound to make the chart. I know people there, so we might even get an edge."
Ji Tienan nodded. "Good idea. Go talk to them and get the price. Call me when you have the details."
"Will do."
Lu Duoduo quickly gathered her things and returned to Liangyin Media.
This time, she finally saw Big Fei.
"Hello, Brother Fei!"
Lin Chudong was taken aback. "You're..."
"I'm Lu Duoduo! We spoke on the phone earlier!"
Lin Chudong's eyes lit up. "Oh, right! Come in, please have a seat."
Liang Yin also emerged, puzzled. *Lu Duoduo was just here this morning. Why is she back already?*
"President Liang, Brother Fei, I saw an online event called the Golden Phoenix Goddess Chart. I wanted to ask if your company's Yang Han would be participating."
Lin Chudong nodded. "She will."
He had just seen the event. Since they didn't have many variety show opportunities for Yang Han, they had to seize this chance to give her a shot. Besides, this event required original songs—it was practically tailor-made for their strengths!
Lu Duoduo said, "That's wonderful! I came to discuss sponsorship. Does Yang Han have any sponsors yet?"
Lin Chudong and Liang Yin exchanged knowing smiles.
In the past, they had always been the ones actively seeking sponsors, shamelessly begging for money from company executives.
Now, for the first time, a sponsor had come to them—a significant milestone!
"Not yet. We can discuss it."
After a brief discussion, Lu Duoduo called Ji Tienan.
They ultimately agreed on a 15 million yuan sponsorship for Yang Han.
Normally, sponsors would offer tiered sponsorship packages based on a contestant's final ranking on the Goddess Ranking.
But SouTu Video showed genuine enthusiasm, generously offering 15 million yuan regardless of the ranking.
This was both a validation of Yang Han's talent and a vote of confidence in Big Fei.
With Big Fei in charge, securing a top-three spot was practically guaranteed.
After signing the contract, Lu Duoduo lingered for a while, took a photo with Big Fei, and finally left with a reluctant sigh.
After Lu Duoduo left, Liang Yin said, "Big Fei, we're really awesome! Sponsors are practically knocking on our door now."
Lin Chudong nodded. "Actually, SouTu Video is getting a great deal. Although *Bright Sword* isn't an exclusive, it's not airing on the other four major platforms, so it's practically exclusive to them. They're probably trying to boost their download numbers with this opportunity, and their boss is smart enough to seize it."
"We should promote them vigorously in return."
Liang Yin nodded. "So we're not sponsoring them? The *Audition* promotion was so successful last time."
Liang Yin had originally planned to sponsor themselves, having Yang Han compete under the banner of *Audition*'s exclusive sponsorship.
But now that SouTu Video had offered money outright, there was no reason to refuse. Promoting SouTu Video would also greatly help *Bright Sword*'s viewership.
Lin Chudong said, "We should sponsor them too. I'll contact Sister Deng."
When they informed Deng Siqing about the matter, she readily agreed.
Big Fei was going to write another song for her, and she was naturally delighted.
As for the Goddess Ranking, the exact rank didn't matter to her.
Deng Siqing's popularity in the music industry was soaring. Her recent songs had all become widely popular hits:
*Because of Love*
*Red Bean*
*Courage*
Especially after winning the championship of *Cross-Border Singing God*, some began calling her the "New Queen of Pop."
Sister Deng already had a strong fanbase, known as the "Nation's Top Big Sister." Now, she was not only dominating the hosting world but also carving out a significant place in the music industry.
This time, she might actually achieve a remarkable result. According to Lin Chudong's advice, staying low-key would ensure she secured a top-two position.
***
At 8 PM, *Bright Sword* began airing.
Though the broadcast started an hour early, and the TV station had announced the change in advance, many viewers were still caught off guard.
"To be a soldier, you need a certain spirit, like a swordsman facing his opponent in a narrow pass."
"Even knowing death awaits, he must draw his treasured sword!"
"Falling beneath the enemy's blade is no disgrace—that's called dying with honor!"
"Our Chinese soldiers must never be cowards. Against any foe, we must draw our swords without hesitation!"
***
"So that's what *Bright Sword* means! This episode was so inspiring!"
"This is how war dramas should be made. Look at that *True Colors of the Anti-Japanese War* next door—it started as a war drama but ended up turning into a teen romance."
"Chu Yunfei was left speechless. Old Li's skills are no joke."
"Did you guys notice Big Fei? The Second Battalion Commander seems to be played by Big Fei."
"You're right! The director himself is acting in it. Big Fei's acting is actually quite good."
"Hey, you really are a damn talent!"
Lin Chudong's company was also watching the drama on paid time. Huang Wei sent him a WeChat message:
"The highest rating hit 8%! This show is a miracle! The advertising revenue is also great. We'll settle your share after the broadcast."
Lin Chudong: "Thanks for your hard work, Sister Huang."
Huang Wei: "Not at all. The boss asked me to reserve the next project with you. Have you decided what you want to film next?"
Lin Chudong: "Uh... I haven't thought about it yet."
Huang Wei: "Contact me the moment you have an idea. The terms will only get better."
Lin Chudong: "Okay, Sister Huang."
Lin Chudong couldn't help but chuckle. *Bright Sword* had only just reached its sixth episode, and he was already planning his next project.
He hadn't yet decided what to film next, mainly because he hadn't decided whether to act in it himself.
The money from *Bright Sword* hadn't been fully recouped yet. Lin Chudong was waiting to open his treasure chest, hoping to get an acting skill.
If he did, he would definitely tailor a script specifically for himself.
Moreover, he planned to hire Lin Qiqi for the next project, which would be quite expensive. So for now, he decided to put the matter aside and see how much money he made first.
***
Lin Qiqi was sprawled on the hotel room floor with Sister Song, watching a TV drama.
Song Jing stared in astonishment, her admiration for Lin Chudong's talent growing with every scene.
"Qiqi, I really underestimated Big Fei. He's truly talented."
Lin Qiqi beamed with pride. "Right? My Big Fei is amazing."
"Have you talked to Big Fei about your next role?" Song Jing asked.
"He'll tell me if he wants me in his next project," Lin Qiqi replied. "He said he wants to hone his acting skills first, then we'll do a scene together."
Song Jing nodded. "Big Fei will definitely remember you. Tell him not to worry about the salary—a few million would be a nice gesture."
Big Fei's two recent dramas had been massive hits. The first starred Li Xiaomai and Deng Yong, the second Li Hongbin. All of their star power had skyrocketed.
Even Cheng Huanhuan, who had been a little-known host, had transformed into a sketch comedy queen. Big Fei's ability to elevate talent was undeniable.
That's why Song Jing wasn't so concerned about the salary.
"Qiqi, you should enter the Goddess Ranking this time. Ask Big Fei to write you a song."
"Your 'Congratulations, Congratulations' was quite popular last time. Although it didn't rank high on the Hot Songs Chart, many places are using it for their openings and events now."
Lin Qiqi nodded. "Then you'll have to pay Big Fei."
Song Jing rolled her eyes. "You little girl, already turning your back on your own family before you're even married?"
Lin Qiqi put her hands on her hips. "We didn't pay for 'Partiality' last time, and we didn't pay for 'Congratulations, Congratulations' either. We can't just let Big Fei write songs for free, can we?"
"Alright, alright, I'll pay. You talk to Big Fei yourself." Song Jing was truly defeated. An artist who marries out is like water spilled from a bucket—she hadn't even tied the knot yet and was already demanding money for Big Fei.
Lin Qiqi video-called him.
"Big Fei, what are you doing?"
Lin Chudong: Watching *Bright Sword*. What about you?
Lin Qiqi: I'm watching too, hehe, it's so good. Sister Song wants me to participate in the Goddess Ranking, and she wants you to write a song for me.
Lin Chudong: Sure.
Lin Qiqi: Sister Song said she'll give you five million.
Song Jing's eyes widened instantly, and she started making frantic hand gestures at Lin Qiqi from the side.
"Big Sis, what are you talking about? When did I say five million was too much?"
"Two or three million would be more reasonable. Besides, we have this connection with Big Fei—can't we get a discount?"
*Lin Qiqi really isn't on the same page as me anymore!*
Lin Chudong smiled. "Forget five million. Let's just offer a token million."
Lin Qiqi said, "Oh, in that case, three million. No more haggling."
Song Jing: ...
*Reverse haggling? Miss Lin's move is truly divine!* To quote Li Yunlong:
*Hey, you damn genius!*
After a bit more back-and-forth, they hung up. Lin Qiqi handed the phone to Song Jing.
"Sister Song, send the money."
Song Jing: ...
As she transferred the funds, Song Jing said, "We still haven't secured a sponsor. Any ideas?"
Lin Qiqi replied, "Yes, *Audition Online*."
Song Jing paused. "Big Fei's game? How much do you think they'll give us?"
Lin Qiqi chuckled. "Hehe, talking about money is bad for our friendship, Sister Song."
Song Jing glared. "Don't try to pull a fast one on me. You're not going to suggest a free sponsorship, are you?"
"If you compete, the sponsorship fee starts at at least twenty million."
Lin Qiqi protested, "How could that be? This is a music chart. Without Big Fei's songs, would I even make it to the top? You know that, Sister Song, right?"
Song Jing's expression changed. Seeing the girl's serious tone, she quickly added, "Qiqi, we need to discuss this sponsorship seriously. We can give Big Fei a discount, but we can't... Qiqi, let go! Why are you tickling my feet? Let go! Hahaha..."
"Okay, okay, I give up, I give up!"
Song Jing was both angry and amused. This girl was learning to be mischievous.
Lin Qiqi suggested, "How about five million? Big Fei writes a free song for me, I'll compete with his sponsorship, and neither of us has to pay anything."
"What five million? Wasn't it three million?"
"Why can you bargain but Big Fei can't?"
Song Jing was speechless. This girl was really determined to get together with Big Fei.
"Why don't you just make your relationship with Big Fei official?"
Lin Qiqi's face flushed crimson. "No, he hasn't even confessed to me yet."
Song Jing blinked in surprise, then shook her head. *I don't understand the world of young people,* she thought.
***
Two days later, the Golden Phoenix Goddess Ranking opened.
Voting was available on both mobile and desktop via the CCTV official account.
Each person could cast a maximum of six votes per day, with each vote linked to a phone number.
The list of contestants and their songs was prominently displayed.
Zhang Yiran's song, "Women Stay Young Forever," immediately topped the Dark Horse Chart on QQ Music.
While the Dark Horse Chart held less prestige than the Hot Songs Chart, reaching its summit was still a significant achievement.
At her company, Zhang Yiran put on her headphones and clicked the link to her song from the official account. She listened, humming along.
*This song is truly amazing!* she thought. *It's worthy of a top songwriting team. This year, I'm going straight for the top spot on the Goddess Ranking!*
She glanced at the other contestants' songs. *What trash!*
*This is a music ranking, after all. What are these pretty faces doing here?*
*Do they think they can get on the charts just because they're good-looking?*
Within the first hour of the voting, Zhang Yiran held a steady first place.
As soon as the voting channels opened, Zhang Yina immediately mobilized her team to manipulate the results.
*Even temporary first place brings in traffic,* she reasoned.
Zhang Yiran skimmed through the list of lackluster female singers below, unconcerned.
When she reached Yang Han, currently ranked fifteenth, she frowned slightly.
*Yang Han's sponsor is SooRabbit Video?*
She clicked on Yang Han's song, and the music began playing in her headphones.
*This title is a bit strange.*
*Aurora*
___
Second update not finished. Will be posted before 2 AM.
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