Chapter 135: Students, the wind is rising.

The fundamental difference between a judge and an audience member is that the audience can score based on personal preference, whereas a judge is obligated to provide a relatively impartial score. Even if they dislike the person on stage, or if there is a history of conflict between them, once seated in the judge's chair, they must take responsibility for their position.

The other two judges were visibly incensed by her irresponsible behavior. Now that the matter had been blown wide open, Shen Lei decided to double down.

"Actually, there’s nothing more to say. It’s simply because, in my opinion, Lin Ze’s performance did not meet the standard!" Shen Lei gestured dismissively toward the camera, stating her reason.

It was too late for her to back down now; having already awarded a zero, she would lose all standing in the entertainment industry if she were to retreat.

"I truly wonder what someone who could pass Professor Shen’s standards would look like," Song Mingchun said with a shake of his head and a smile.

Sensing that a disaster was about to unfold on stage, the director quickly relayed a message through their earpieces. Shen Lei, who had been about to add something more, fell silent.

After waiting for the atmosphere to settle, Wang Wensheng spoke up. "Everyone, there’s no need to dwell on this. Acting is subjective—there is no definitive first place in literature or second in martial arts. Everyone has their own understanding of performance."

"Exactly," Tang Chuan nodded, adding with a laugh, "We must respect the diversity of the species."

"Pfft." Lin Ze let out a laugh.

Shen Lei’s face darkened instantly.

Tang Chuan suddenly caught himself. "No, no, no, that’s not what I meant. I misspoke. I meant the diversity of art..."

"Alright, alright," Wang Wensheng said to Shen Lei. "Tang Chuan has been playing a biological researcher in his latest drama; he just got a bit carried away with his lines. Don't take it to heart."

After these interruptions, the host stepped forward. "This time, a newcomer has secured their footing, which means one contestant must leave our program. This person will be chosen from the team with the lowest score. Will the mentors... please cast your votes!"

The members of the lowest-scoring team exchanged glances, their eyes filled with reluctance. Yet, there was no other way. It was precisely this competitive format that kept everyone on edge, as no one knew who would be the next to leave.

The stage lights flickered for a moment before settling. At the judges' table, Shen Lei sat with a cold expression.

The other two judges conferred briefly and announced a name. "Liu Hao!"

Since it was a vote, the two-to-one result meant no further explanation from Shen Lei was required.

"Liu Hao, the reason we chose you is quite simple," Wang Wensheng said sternly. "While your acting is generally good, since entering this program, not only have you failed to improve, you have actually grown lax due to your own level of comfort."

Standing among the group, Liu Hao was silent for a moment before nodding.

Lin Ze looked at him. Liu Hao had gained some fame previously for playing an undercover agent in several modern crime thrillers, but he had lacked any notable works since.

"I hope you will continue to work hard in the future," Song Mingchun added. "This brief setback on this stage is just that—brief. Adjust your mindset, and there will be bigger stages waiting for you."

Amidst the applause of the crowd, Liu Hao bowed to the audience, turned, and walked off the stage.

"Everyone, please join me in a round of applause once more for the actors on this stage. Today’s episode concludes here. Let us look forward to our next meeting!"

As the host spoke, the audience erupted into applause. The show was over.

"Impressive!"

As the actors headed toward the backstage area, many of them approached Lin Ze, showing a change in attitude. Lin Ze’s performance today had truly won everyone over. After exchanging pleasantries, Lin Ze collected his belongings and headed to the parking lot.

Just as he got into his car, Tang Chuan and his manager walked toward him.

Lin Ze rolled down the window. "Tang Chuan!"

"What a coincidence," Tang Chuan said, waving at Lin Ze before walking up to his car window.

"I wanted to thank you for speaking up for me on stage today," Lin Ze said with a smile.

"Not at all, I really just had a slip of the tongue," Tang Chuan replied, offering a standard, practiced smile. Their relationship wasn't close enough for anything else, and he had to be cautious about being recorded.

Lin Ze had his own ulterior motives for calling him over.

"My contract is expiring soon. Why haven't you replied to the invitation I sent you?" Lin Ze looked at him, then at his manager. The manager looked quite young, but with her rimless glasses, she resembled a lawyer.

"Ah..." Tang Chuan scratched the back of his head. "Actually, my manager handles those invitations. I wasn't aware."

"Mr. Lin," Tang Chuan’s manager spoke up. "I have carefully reviewed the invitation from your company. However, as you know, we have received many invitations from other companies as well." She gave Lin Ze a polite smile. "We haven't replied because your studio is still on our shortlist. We need to consider it carefully. My apologies."

"Understood," Lin Ze nodded. "Working with us carries a higher risk, but sometimes, taking a gamble isn't a bad thing."

Tang Chuan nodded as well. "We will definitely consider it!"

They weren't particularly close, and having said what needed to be said, Lin Ze bid him farewell. Even if he couldn't sign him now, there might be opportunities for cooperation in the future.

Lin Ze opened his phone and saw several notifications pop up. He clicked on one.

"Youth is not just about the awkwardness of love; we should spread our wings and embrace the world!"

The thumbnail for the story featured Lin Ze sitting on the stage, looking up at the sky. The ceiling of the original studio had been edited into a clear, bright blue sky. Lin Ze sat there, his hair slightly tousled, looking quite striking.

"Please welcome our first guest of the day! This singer is truly extraordinary. Ever since stepping onto this stage, he has never left the top spot..."

"Lin Ze! Lin Ze! Lin Ze!"

Amidst the cheers of the audience, the host turned. "Let us welcome—Lin Ze!"

Lin Ze walked out from behind the curtain, clutching a guitar. He was wearing a blue and white school uniform. As the standard choice for most schools across the country, it stirred memories in the hearts of the audience. He had even styled his hair to be neatly above his eyebrows, looking as natural as a popular student who would catch the eyes of many girls during a school talent show.

Lin Ze smiled faintly. "Classmates, the wind has risen."