In a world devastated by an unforgiving apocalypse, Qing Xia struggles against a life filled with despair. Surrounded by the suffocating remnants of society—polluted air, barren land, and the haunted expressions of humanity—he often envies those who have found peace in death, escaping the relentless suffering of existence. Yet, the memory of his family's sacrifice fuels his determination to endure, making him one of the last survivors in a landscape of desolation.

But fate has other plans. During a routine mission, Qing Xia’s life abruptly ends, or so he believes. To his shock, he awakens reborn as an idol on the brink of obscurity, a mere shadow in a vibrant world. Eager for a second chance, he seeks solace in a newfound identity, yearning for a life filled with simple pleasures.

However, tranquility slips through his fingers as he is thrust into an unexpected chaos—a variety show that pulls him into the heart of danger, where secret agents, ruthless hitmen, and shadowy figures lurk. With every step, the weight of his dreams collides with a reality he never wished to face. As he grapples with relentless uncertainty, Sian realizes that the struggle for peace may lead him deeper into turmoil. In this haunting journey, can he carve out a destiny in a world that seems determined to tear him apart? The winds of fate do not blow as one wishes, and with shadows closing in, every moment counts.

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Black box:

Someone: “Darling, help me deal with these people.”

Sian: “Stay away from me. I have nothing to do with you or them.”

Someone, with fake tears: “Darling, I’m hurt. Come kiss me here, and the pain will go away.”

Sian, holding a military knife: “Does it hurt there? How about I just cut it off for you?”

Someone, stripping Sian’s clothes: “Darling, you look so beautiful when you’re angry. I can’t take it anymore.”

Sian: “Go to hell! Ah—ahh! Stop it—stop! That hurts! Quit biting me, you damn dog!”

...****************...

"This variety show is extremely popular. You should at least try to leave a good final impression on the audience."

Qing Xia heard a soft voice—one that sounded like a girl's, or rather, a mature woman's.

His ears were still ringing, likely due to a grenade exploding near his head. He blinked a few times, attempting to regain his senses and shake off the annoying hum.

"Xian, are you even listening to me? I'm talking to you! Don't play the silent man now," said Manager Su, trying to suppress the anger bubbling within her. This artist of hers had always been like this—living in his world, indifferent to everything around him. If she hadn't been his assistant for three years, she might have thought he was either a recluse or a fool.

The moment her words fell, Qing Xia opened his eyes and looked toward the sound. Manager Su froze. There was no unnecessary emotion in those beautiful amber eyes staring back at her.

She went silent for a moment, not because of the stunning face before her, nor the glow of his pale skin. It wasn't the sight of a young man brushing back his shoulder-length hair, holding his head slightly while squinting with mild annoyance. All of that was certainly striking, but it was the coldness and cruelty in those eyes that rendered Manager Su speechless.

For some reason, she had the eerie feeling that the moment she opened her mouth, her throat would be slit. Don't ask her why such a thought came to her—she was equally surprised by the fear flooding her in the presence of this beautiful teenage boy.

Qing Xia was observing his surroundings now. He wasn't stupid. Within two seconds of opening his eyes, he realized he wasn't in his own body—or even in his world.

No, this couldn't be his world. A luxurious car, a woman seated across from him in elegant attire and flawless makeup, sunlight streaming through the car's window while buildings blurred past outside... Even the air tasted different, confirming this wasn't his world.

Don't joke with me. That filthy world had none of this.

It was impossible to forget—how could he forget years of suffering, pain, and torment? How could he forget the ever-present black fog? The barren lands with no life or water? How could he forget the destruction of the world humanity once knew?

He had fought with all his might, putting in every ounce of effort. Though, truthfully, he had grown tired—sick of living in that dreadful world. Yet, he couldn't give up the life his family had sacrificed everything for.

"Madam, we've arrived."

The driver's voice pulled Qing Xia out of his memories. He raised his eyes and stared at the woman across from him. This time, he withdrew his terrifying aura, gazing at her with mere indifference.

It seemed the driver's voice also snapped the woman out of the deep fear she had been gripped by. She looked at the young man in front of her and hesitantly said, "This variety show may be new, but it's very popular—especially since it's broadcast live 24/7. That means the cameras will catch your every move, so it's better not to cause any trouble. I understand you feel wronged because the company abandoned you and terminated your contract, and this will be your last time in front of the camera. But you can't just act out of anger. Your incompetence is the reason you were rejected only two years after signing the contract. You're the only member of the team who hasn't made any progress as an artist or singer."

Perhaps because Manager Su was still somewhat scared and nervous, she ended up saying a lot more than she intended.

Well, at least it was useful for Qing Xia. He now knew a bit about the owner of this body—not that he could ask for her help or clarification. What was he supposed to say? Excuse me, it seems I lost my memory after closing my eyes for two minutes.

Even more ridiculous would be saying something like, I'm not Xian; I'm the soul of someone else.

Now that he had this body, he was determined to live a good, happy life in this peaceful and beautiful world.

From Manager Su's words, it seemed the person he had taken overworked in the entertainment industry. What did she say? A singer and actor? Well, that was unexpected. Someone like him, who didn't even get the chance to graduate high school, was supposed to live as a singer? At least the company had terminated his contract. He couldn't imagine himself trying to learn how to sing—talent wasn't something you gained just because you inherited a body.

Unfortunately, he didn't even get the original owner's memories.

After analyzing Manager Su's words carefully, Qing Xia felt slightly relieved. Based on what she said, this was the last job he would be doing, and his contract had been terminated. Though he still needed a lot more information, this was better than nothing.

At least he had a vague idea of what was happening and where he was headed.

Not that he wanted to participate in any variety show or anything like that. All he truly desired at the moment was some delicious food to fill his stomach. After living for five years in a destroyed world, even the smallest bit of food there had been contaminated and utterly inedible.

I want to eat a plate of grilled meat. I haven't seen any meat in years.

Xian's mouth was practically watering as he stepped out of the car. Manager Su glanced at him, sighed, and led him to meet the other participants who would be filming with him. As they walked, she didn't forget to explain all the things he needed to pay attention to, thoroughly detailing what he had to do in the program.

It was a wilderness survival show, where participants from various professions were dropped into a forest for 30 days with a small backpack of supplies and food. That bag was practically useless since the food and water in it could last only two days at most.

Of course, this show wasn't suited for a "flower vase" like Xian. The other participants selected for the show were retired military personnel, Olympians, or survival experts.

In other words, they were all strong and capable.

As for why a "singer" was here, Manager Su had hinted that this unfortunate man had offended someone he shouldn't have. Wait a second—wasn't he the unlucky one now?

Xian quickly arrived at the helicopter's location, where he saw many people gathered. They appeared to be waiting, just like him, talking to their assistants or each other.

Yes, you heard that right—a helicopter. Who told the show's producer to be so wealthy? Since the show's events took place in a forest far from the city, participants were being transported by helicopter. The live broadcast would begin right from this moment, as scenes of the participants boarding the helicopter made for an excellent opening shot.

One of the participants looked at Xian, who was standing with Manager Su, his ears still ringing from her endless chatter and warnings.

"Hey, look over here! Hello, kid. Did you lose your way?" the man called out, laughing along with two others beside him.

This man had healthy bronze skin, strong, defined muscles, and even some facial stubble. His short brown hair and narrow eyes gave him a rugged appearance. He didn't look very old, but compared to Xian's delicate features, Xian truly looked like a child next to him.

Chapter 2: Lights, Camera, Survival!

Sian glanced at the man who was waving at him, his gaze filled with blatant mockery. He laughed with his companions.

Honestly, he didn't mind being called a child. He had seen his reflection through a car window before. With his smooth, slender face, large round amber eyes, and long, silky black hair...

Forget about adolescence; this face looked like that of a child. Furthermore, such foolish provocation wouldn't even make Xian blink. He had lived a terrifying life, witnessed many life-threatening situations, and faced countless hardships. Words like those seemed more like child's play than an insult.

"Don't listen to them, don't let their words or actions provoke you. Try to stay calm; the live broadcast will start soon," Director Su whispered in Sian's ear with concern.

She had seen the temperament of her star; he was fiery and volatile. Although he was quiet and calm most of the time, once he got angry, he acted like a rabid dog, ready to bite anyone in his path.

At that very moment, the film crew approached Xian and asked if they could attach a small camera to his shirt since the show was about to begin.

"This show was originally very popular because of its realism. It's not like those shows where participants can memorize scripts and act accordingly. That's what makes it unique. It doesn't just use small flying cameras to capture every shot, but there's also a special camera that follows each participant individually, so the audience can choose which participant they want to watch and follow."

"Each participant is equipped with small cameras that are precisely attached to their clothes, allowing the technical team to easily switch between angles. When the flying cameras can't keep up, or during exciting moments that deserve to be seen up close, the audience can instantly switch to a more detailed view."

After the miniature cameras were placed on all the participants, Director Han called them all to gather.

"Hello, everyone. I'm Director Han, and I'm overseeing this variety show. " I'm sure everyone is familiar with the rules and regulations of this show, but I have to remind you. " So even if what I say seems boring, please pay attention," said Director Han with a serious expression. He was a man in his forties, with a light beard, black hair, and eyes. He didn't look too old, but he wasn't young either. He was an experienced director.

"The live broadcast will start the moment the helicopter takes off. For the next 30 days, you'll have to live in the forest on the outskirts of City B. Some of you may not know, but this is the largest forest we have, and it's extremely dangerous, with plants that could kill you."

"Everyone here must have signed the waiver agreement, which means that if any of you die, the program is not responsible."

At this, the twenty people standing in front of Director Han scowled. Of course, they were annoyed. The director's words were extremely provoking and unnecessary.

Although this show was about survival in nature and was broadcast for public enjoyment, it was an incredibly dangerous program. It is considered the most dangerous internationally, after global combat and death programs.

Of course, with its high risks came high rewards, but only for those who lasted the entire 30 days. If any participant left for any reason before that, their contract would be void, and they would receive only a small amount of money at most. However, the rewards for those who survived and stayed in the forest for the full month were massive—cash, villas, and for Olympians and various athletes, a three-year contract with any company or team of their choice.

While this prize might seem trivial, it was extraordinary. The idea of a relatively famous athlete joining the elite ranks as a reward was something close to fantasy.

In the few years this show had aired, fewer than ten people had won. Out of twenty participants each season, over the years, less than ten succeeded... Of course, no one had died yet, as the show had strict safety protocols, with a medical team on standby and well-trained rescue teams.

"There's no need to look at me like that. I'm just telling the truth. But there's no need to be too scared either. As everyone knows, no deaths have been reported on our show so far. " We provide the best protection for our valued participants," Director Han said, showing no fear for his life as he made such a heavy joke, especially in front of a crowd of muscular, strong individuals...

"Director, we need to start in ten minutes," said the assistant at hand, causing Director Han to wipe his smile and say one last time: "Anyway, here's what you need to do in the forest." First, you need to head to the house located in the middle of the forest. Each of you has a bag with some necessities. You must reach the cabin within two days. After reaching the cabin, you can either work as a team or individually to survive, hunt, and live—either way, it doesn't matter. Secondly, a survival expert will accompany you. He is a Korean named Kim Hyun, and he will help and guide you with anything you need. You can ask him anything."

A muscular man standing next to Director Han smiled and bowed his head to the group, saying: "It's a pleasure to meet you all. I hope we work together and get along well."

"Wow, do all men have muscles like this in this world?" Sian thought to himself, watching this man and all the surrounding others. Honestly, he envied these men for their large, healthy bodies.

In his previous life, he had been frail, even thinner than Sian was now. This was partly due to hunger, and partly because he had to fight and flee...

Well, nothing else matters... Ah, I remember now. The camera on your body will be turned off at 7 PM and turned back on at 6 AM. This is to maintain some privacy, but the cameras in the cabin and around it will remain on, so remember this and behave accordingly."

"This man has said so much, doesn't his throat hurt?" Sian thought as he followed the assistant to get his survival kit and go to his designated spot to begin the live broadcast. He had already made sure to weaken his aura and hide among the crowd, so no one paid him any attention or spoke to him.

After putting the bag on his back, he went to stand in his spot. He stood next to the man who had called him a child earlier.

"Oi, kid, where were you? I thought you ran off out of fear."

Sian ignored him and stood silently, hands in his jacket pockets. This was a survival show, so all participants were required to wear only black tracksuits. Sian was small and thin compared to the other participants, who were nearly two meters tall. He stood out the moment everyone took their spots.

With his long hair flowing over his shoulder, amber eyes glowing in the soft sunlight, a small white face, and a slightly reddened nose, perhaps from the cold—it was, after all, the beginning of winter.

The other participants looked Xian up and down, analyzing him and guessing which sport he played with such a slim body. It was natural for them to assume he was an athlete. After all, this was a show for athletes. Though not a rule, it was an unwritten one.

"Is everyone in position?" Director Han shouted, then looked at the twenty people who were standing in a large circle in the empty field.

"Clear out all unnecessary people and make space. Tell the pilot to get ready to start the helicopter. " We'll move exactly two minutes after the live broadcast begins," said Director Han without looking at the assistant beside him.

"Three—two—one."

"Action!"

...to be continued

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Manager Su: "Hey, author, did you just make me vanish in the middle of the Chapter? I can't find any mention of me!"

The author with a smirk: "No, you're there, just in the deleted scene!"

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"Welcome, our dear audience, to the most thrilling and exciting new season of the show that redefines the spirit of courage, resilience, survival, and challenge... Survival Quest."

In this season, twenty brave participants from diverse backgrounds and professions have joined us. They've left behind their comfort, security, and mundane daily lives to prove just one thing: they are capable of facing nature, conquering it, and emerging victorious.

Over the next thirty days, our brave heroes will face various challenges, from wild, dangerous terrains, to ferocious predators, and even the plants in this forest may be deadly. Armed with nothing but a tiny survival kit containing barely enough food to last two days, the bare essentials, and simple weapons, they will rely solely on their unwavering determination and steadfast mentality as their weapon against these terrifying changes. They will test the limits of their adaptability, endurance, and survival in the face of these hardships.

This is no ordinary survival show. Dear Followers, here the stakes are real, the challenges are tough, and the rewards... are beyond compare. Will these contestants endure for an entire month? Which one will become a symbol of perseverance and innovation? Who will succumb to fear and weakness? And who will discover that this forest... demands far more than they ever imagined?

To our audience, prepare for breathtaking moments, life-altering decisions, and the true strength of the human spirit. And to the new contestants—welcome to the arena of survival. The forest awaits you, as does your destiny.

Let the journey begin.

Thunder_Toast:

"Wow, I've been waiting for this season to start forever!"

Witty_Biscuit:

"Let's go, I can't wait to see the looks on their faces when they enter the forest!"

Mysterious_Toe:

"Last season was insane. I saw someone get bitten by a black snake. I bet it was the black mamba. Even though the guy didn't die, it was crazy..."

Paper Boat in the Wind:

"Wow, is this a variety show? It looks so dangerous. What if the contestants die?"

Sleeping Taco:

"Looks like the little brother is new here. Of course, if anyone dies in the forest, the show won't be held responsible. That's because every participant has to sign a waiver and liability release form. This means that even if they die or get injured, it's all on them since they agreed to join the show."

Paper Boat in the Wind:

"Wow, I didn't know that. So this show is dangerous? Can anyone survive even two days in this hell? That forest isn't just any forest; it could be more dangerous than the Amazon. It has snow-capped mountains, rugged terrains, poisonous plants everywhere, not to mention the predators, caves, and even sudden storms..."

Clumsy_Penguin:

"Don't worry, little brother. All the contestants are either strong athletes, military school graduates, or experienced adventurers. It's impossible to see a weak person among the..."

It seems this fan suddenly stopped writing. This was because the camera, which had been broadcasting the faces of the twenty participants as they moved toward the helicopter, caught something that shocked the entire internet.

The commentator had always started the live broadcast without even introducing the contestants, partly for publicity and excitement, but also because the show would last an entire month, so personal introductions and details about the participants were meant to unfold through daily interactions.

So, the camera recorded the faces of the contestants without any explanation.

As the participants moved to board the helicopter, the camera captured each one of them, and of course, one of them was Sian. When the camera stopped on his stunning face, the audience, who had been cheering just a moment ago, went silent.

It wasn't that the contestants weren't handsome; they were all extremely good-looking, with every kind of hair and eye color. But Sian's beauty was different. He looked like a delicate and charming princess walking among monsters.

It might sound exaggerated, but honestly, if you saw the scene, the first thing that would come to mind is a small, weak rabbit standing among a group of fierce lions and wolves.

After a minute of shock, the network erupted again.

Dreaming in Wonderland:

"Hey, beauty, did you lose your way? Don't go over there... Hello..."

"OMG, who is this cute guy? Look at him, he looks like he's about to be eaten by the other contestants any moment."

"Maybe he's an athlete, he doesn't look like a soldier or an adventurer."

"If he's an athlete, I bet he plays ice dancing, hahaha."

"How did they even let him participate in such a dangerous show?"

"Okay, okay, we'll know soon enough. It's the first day, and of course, he'll introduce himself. Honestly, I like him. I feel like he'll make the show even more exciting and fun."

+1

+1

+1

...

The person who shocked everyone and made them look forward to his presence on this variety show was now resting his head against the seat, eyes closed.

The helicopter was so big, it looked more like a military plane. That's why the participants were seated in two facing rows. The director and some photographers and assistants were also seated.

Even with advanced flying cameras and high-quality filming equipment, having something flying inside the helicopter could cause unnecessary problems. Plus, there were cameras in the corners of the helicopter focused on the contestants, and some photographers were recording. This, of course, was to process images and videos later into episodes for the show.

This was a live broadcast, but it wasn't free. Followers had to pay to watch the livestream and also become VIP members. Because of that, the show not only broadcasted live but also produced special two-hour episodes, which were aired on agreed-upon local channels.

Of course, watching the livestream was different, and the free-produced episode wouldn't be aired until ten days after the reality show started.

That's why millions of fans preferred to pay to enjoy the livestream.

And also, this is the reason why Sian's identity as an idol wouldn't be revealed until later. It would cause a huge stir. All this shortly.

The contestants looked at Sian with various expressions: some with mockery, others with pity, and still others confused about why someone like him would participate in such a dangerous show.

Sian kept his eyes closed but was fully aware of his surroundings. You could say this was a habit he developed after the apocalypse. He wouldn't lower his guard just because he was in a "safe" place. No one knew what could happen.

But he didn't mind letting these people stare at him. He couldn't control their eyes anyway, and frankly, he didn't care.

Suddenly, Sian felt a movement in the air, and it seemed to be targeting his face. In a split second, he opened his eyes and moved his hand... Then something cold was in his right hand. He was holding a red soda can.

He raised his gaze and looked coldly at the person who threw the can. It was one of the contestants. Although he had a strong body, he didn't seem as tough as the others around him. He had a childish face with delicate, arched eyebrows, large black eyes, and light pink dyed hair.

He was smiling innocently, but the look in his eyes revealed a deep hatred and disdain. Was there even a hint of jealousy?

What the hell is wrong with this arrogant brat?

"Ah, sorry, sorry! I meant to pass the soda to my buddy next to you, I didn't mean to throw it at you," the young man with pink hair stammered, looking like a scared puppy who had done something wrong.

But this trick didn't fool Sian. He had encountered many people like this in the apocalypse. They hid their evil side behind a mask of kindness and innocence. Honestly, this poor acting didn't fool even the other people there, so how could it fool Sian?!

Sian looked at the young man, smiling innocently and stuttering his apologies.

He shook the soda can in his hand and threw it upward in a few spins.

The young man with pink hair stared at Sian with a confused and questioning look, but he didn't have time to ask.

Because suddenly the soda can was flying toward his face. He was so stunned that he didn't move, but a hand from beside him reached out and caught the can just one centimeter away from his eyes. Then the soda can exploded, splashing juice all over his face, making him look exactly like a wet puppy everywhere.

Marco's face was dripping with juice, and his pink hair was soaked too. After two seconds, he regained his senses and realized what had happened. That little bitch threw the can at him. If it hadn't been for the guy sitting next to him, his beautiful face would have been hit. How dare he do this to me, that little jerk.

He wiped his face with his sleeve, then looked at Sian, who was smiling broadly at him, as if mocking his state.

Just as Marco had guessed, Sian was indeed mocking him, but not because he was covered in juice. It was because he didn't expect this person to miss the trajectory of the soda can flying directly toward him. He thought he was a little strong, so he used half his strength to throw the can at him.

The plan from the beginning was for the can to explode the moment it was caught. But he didn't expect it to be caught by the person next to Marco, not Marco himself.

He looked at the man who was wiping his hand with a wet napkin to get rid of the juice. That man was also looking at him but with an amused smile. It seemed even he didn't expect the can to explode.

Not only he but also the audience watching the livestream was in chaos.

---

Clumsy_Penguin: "Damn! Did anyone record that scene? I couldn't catch it!"

"Damn, that little angel is so strong."

Mommy's_Boy: "I just got hit with a broom by my mom because I yelled 'f*ck'... But, seriously, is this guy an immortal cultivator?"

Dreaming_in_Wonderland: "So handsome! Look at those glowing amber eyes when he's angry, look at those beautiful white joints. Who would've thought such power could be in those tiny, delicate hands?"

Bouncing_Squirrel: "Upstairs, I feel like you want to lick those hands, get a grip on yourself, man."

Mysterious_Toe: "For anyone who wants to see that thrilling scene again, I just posted it on my Weibo a few seconds ago."

Crazy_Fish_97: "Ah, I'm going, I'm going! I want to see that killer beauty again."

Sleepy_Taco: "Hello, doesn't anyone here feel sorry for that poor wet puppy?"

Thunder_Toast: "Nah, buddy, are you blind? That person threw the can right at the little angel's face when our angel was asleep and doing nothing. Honestly, instead of pity, I'm really happy. What would've happened if the little angel hadn't caught the can? I can't imagine that divine face getting a bruise."

Witty_Biscuit: "Yeah, he deserved it. Stay away from our angel, you ugly."

"Stay away from the angel!"

"+1 Stay away."

+1

+1

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Do u think that man is our ML?

We will found out next Chapter (⁠✯⁠ᴗ⁠✯⁠)

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