Chapter 70: Concerning the Future

As the grand finale of "A Song to Fame" drew to a close, public attention gradually faded. The twists and trials of that competition became little more than a casual topic for idle conversation. Yet, whenever Lin Chuan's comeback from overwhelming odds was mentioned, a flicker of excitement still lingered.

But only a few days later, the headlines in newspapers, online forums, and news broadcasts had shifted entirely to the newly aired period drama, "Noble House, Loyal Blood." This television series, personally directed by the renowned Director Chen, was met with a flood of acclaim from its very first day in early September.

Particularly, the theme song caused quite a stir when it was revealed that Lin Chuan himself was the original singer. Though audiences had grown accustomed to his extraordinary talent and a repertoire of classic hits, the fact that a song titled "Sword's Heart" was featured in Director Chen's work was seen as an undeniable stamp of approval.

The song itself was indeed captivating, especially the interlude "Farewell Poem," which, when paired with the drama’s storyline, moved many viewers to tears as they watched and listened. They found themselves aching for the character known as Fifth Brother.

For a time, Lin Chuan’s genius was once again recognized, with his name gracing the front pages day after day. Tianyu Web even published a lengthy feature:

"Since the grand finale of 'A Song to Fame,' the championship battle has been a rollercoaster of events. From the comeback of retired singer Dong Kai to the addition of pop sensation Qin Xiyao, the final showdown was filled with highlights.

Whether it was Huang Quan and Dong Kai’s rearranged 'Wind Chimes' or the original duet 'Snow' performed by Lin Chuan and Qin Xiyao, both acts set the stage ablaze. When the nation once again witnessed Lin Chuan’s brilliance, it seemed certain he would clinch the championship with ease—until the unthinkable happened.

I believe both I and the millions watching live believed Lin Chuan was the only true contender for the crown. But reality proved otherwise; a staggering gap of over two hundred thousand votes left everyone feeling powerless and heartbroken. His performance of 'Boundless Seas, Vast Skies' fully conveyed Lin Chuan’s utter despair at that moment.

As I listened to the song, I could hear his resignation and hopelessness. Yet, just when all hope seemed lost, a miracle occurred. Videos recorded by fans from around the world appeared on the big screen, reigniting the flames of hope.

In that instant, regardless of nationality or skin color, everyone became one thing—fans of Lin Chuan.

Yes, it was a miracle, a breathtaking reversal. Lin Chuan’s music, adored by millions at home, won the support of overseas Chinese and even foreign listeners who didn’t speak the language.

This proves the old saying: music knows no borders.

What’s even more remarkable is that the theme song for the grand historical drama 'Noble House, Loyal Blood,' directed by the illustrious Director Chen, was also composed by Lin Chuan.

Since the series premiered, the praise has been non-stop, especially for this song. After listening, I am left with nothing but awe.

In the end, I can only say: Lin Chuan’s victory in 'A Song to Fame' is truly well-deserved!"

Beneath the article was a video of Lin Chuan’s live performance of "Boundless Seas, Vast Skies" from the night of the finals. In no time, Lin Chuan’s fans flocked to the piece, pushing it to the top within minutes. The accompanying video was played tens of thousands of times and the number kept growing.

"Ha, I'm just here for the song—the article’s too long, can’t be bothered to read."
"The editor nailed it! As a fan of Chuan, I’m overwhelmed with happiness."
"Brother Chuan is a genius! He’s simply the best!"

Over the next two days, Lin Chuan’s fans circulated the article across every major forum, while classic tracks like "Old Boys" and "Boundless Seas, Vast Skies" swept the entire internet. Any previous doubts or accusations about Lin Chuan’s championship being rigged vanished as if they had never existed.

At the same time, all sorts of news about Lin Chuan flooded in. Some media outlets, hungry for clicks, published wild speculations about Lin Chuan’s future. Some even claimed with certainty that several well-known record labels and management companies had approached him, hoping to sign this sensational, limitless new "superstar."

Naturally, skepticism arose online, with some netizens arguing that with Lin Chuan’s current fame, smaller companies would be out of the question, and even the big players would be cautious before making any moves.

No sooner had such posts surfaced than a crowd of online agitators leapt in, sparking a heated debate. Both sides exchanged volleys, leading to a full-blown war of words.

Meanwhile, the man at the center of it all knew nothing of these battles, nor of the netizens trying to determine his future who were now at each other’s throats online.

Since the competition ended, Lin Chuan had been hiding at home, hardly stepping outside. Even his son was picked up and dropped off by Yuan Ye.

In recent days, too many people had been seeking Lin Chuan. Just as the rumors suggested, companies large and small were desperately trying to meet him—some even showing up uninvited. If he refused to meet, they would stake out the kindergarten entrance.

His life’s routine was upended; returning to the former peace was clearly impossible.

"Tsk, these reporters are something else. For the sake of hits, look at this—they say you’ve signed with another record company today…" Yuan Ye, legs crossed on the bed, phone in hand, laughed as he said, "Ha, this one’s even funnier—they claim you’ve set up your own studio, mainly writing songs for others…"

Lin Chuan glanced over, shrugged helplessly, and said, "You’ll get used to it. This kind of news has been popping up every day lately."

"That may be, but seriously, Chuan, the contest is over—what are your plans? Are you just going to stay cooped up at home forever?" Yuan Ye put his phone down, looking at Lin Chuan with a serious expression.

"I haven’t decided yet. If it were just me, it’d be simple enough, but I have Yangyang to think of. If I signed with a company and got busy, I’d have little time for my son," Lin Chuan replied, hesitant.

Since the night of the finals, Lin Yiyang had become a sensation as well, especially after his rendition of "Father" in the closing video, which endeared him to many young parents.

The little one was adorable and strikingly handsome. Of all the companies seeking Lin Chuan, several had expressed interest in having Lin Yiyang endorse their toys and food products.

Some were even willing, if Lin Chuan agreed, to turn Lin Yiyang into a child star—commercials, movies, TV shows, you name it.

But Lin Chuan had never intended for his son to enter show business. He had only joined the contest in the first place to provide his son with a change of environment.

In his heart, nothing mattered more than his son growing up happy and free from constraints. Without hesitation, he turned down all such offers.

Yuan Ye understood Lin Chuan’s thinking, but reality often refused to match one’s wishes. Lin Chuan’s fame now eclipsed that of most second- and third-tier celebrities, and even rivaled the hottest stars. A quiet life was no longer possible.

Unless Lin Chuan publicly announced he’d signed with someone, record labels and agencies would keep calling—and even showing up at his door.

"By the way, how’s the TV station doing now?" Lin Chuan asked after a moment of silence.

Yuan Ye paused, then smiled, "Still hanging in there, but it’s much better than before. Morning news ratings are up, and thanks to your name, the station has landed a few new ads—enough to keep things running smoothly for now."

Lin Chuan nodded, having guessed as much. "The station needs a new show to draw in viewers and raise its profile. Relying on just the news and old reruns isn’t enough."

"Yeah, before I came here, the old man called a meeting about it, but the results weren’t great. Launching an appealing program isn’t as easy as it sounds," Yuan Ye replied with a rueful smile.

"I have an idea, not sure if it’ll work… Given the current state of society, young people’s social circles are shrinking, and many are reaching the age of being single and left behind… I was thinking, if we created a dating show, wouldn’t it attract a lot of interest?"

"Pfft!"

Before Lin Chuan could finish, Yuan Ye nearly choked, staring at him in disbelief. "A dating show? Chuan, have you been drinking? Is that even a thing these days?"

"You’re a ladies’ man—you’ve never lacked for women, so you can’t imagine what it’s like for the hungry," Lin Chuan retorted, laughing.

"Uh… that was the old me. Anyway, tell me more about this dating show. I’ll bring it up for discussion when I get back to Beining." Yuan Ye, a little embarrassed, steered the conversation back.

Lin Chuan didn’t press further. Drawing from the format of "If You Are the One" he’d seen in his past life, he outlined the program’s concept, making a few adjustments but not changing much.

By the end, Yuan Ye’s attitude had turned around, his eyes shining. "This could work! It’s really got potential—even I want to sign up!"

Lin Chuan smiled but said nothing more.

Just then, Yuan Ye’s phone rang in his pocket. He pulled it out, frowning as he glanced at the screen.