Chapter 158

After the teams were assigned, the director gave the signal, and both groups set off.

"Attention! Each guest must lead their trainees independently," the director suddenly added. "Anyone caught freeloading off their teammates will have their earnings confiscated by the production crew!"

The show’s appeal relied on self-earned income—the producers had planned this from the start.

"Director, you’re ruthless!"

"Director, I knew you had ulterior motives!"

Though the guests complained aloud, they all recognized this as a prime opportunity to shine. Aside from Damian Cross and Nolan Reed, who didn’t care about the spotlight, the others were already strategizing how to stand out—especially Serena Blake.

After a quick stop at their rooms to freshen up, everyone headed out.

The ancient town was famous for its traditional crafts, with pottery, paper-cutting, and woodcarving workshops lining the streets. Peking opera melodies drifted from teahouses, while street performers called out for audiences.

Aria Bennett reluctantly tore her gaze away from a pair of clay figurines and tugged at Audrey Lane’ sleeve. "I really want to buy these!"

Aria chuckled. "After the livestream, we’ll come back for a shopping spree."

"Deal!" Audrey’s eyes lit up before she asked, "Aria, how are you planning to earn money?"

"I’ll borrow tools from a pottery shop and make clay figurines to sell," Aria said confidently.

Working for someone else wouldn’t pay as well as being her own boss—plus, it was a great way to gain fans.

"You know how to do that?" Audrey’s eyes widened in surprise.

Aria nodded. "I’ve learned before."

Spotting a pottery shop ahead, Aria quickly negotiated a rental agreement with the owner.

Leo Brooks and Owen Parker immediately volunteered. "We’ll help!"

Though they’d never seen Aria’s skills firsthand, they had blind faith in her.

The livestream exploded with reactions:

[Aria can make clay figurines?]

[Mine always turn out hideous—can she really pull this off?]

[She’s just doing it for attention. Waiting for her to embarrass herself!]

Fans swiftly countered:

[What do you know? Aria can do anything!]

[Sit back and watch the haters eat their words!]

Once Aria was set, she turned to Audrey. "What about you?"

"I’ll have to find a job," Audrey sighed before leaving with her two trainees.

Aria then glanced at Damian and Nolan. "What’s your plan?"

Damian pointed to a nearby woodcarving shop. "I’ll rely on my skills too."

He quickly secured a rental, and his two trainees stayed to assist.

[Damian knows woodcarving?]

[I’d buy it even if it’s ugly!]

[He’s sticking close to Aria—totally intentional!]

[This ship is sailing!]

Noticing this, Nolan sidled up to Aria. "Aria, what should I do?" He looked like an eager puppy waiting for instructions.

Aria knew him too well. "You know martial arts, right? Perfect for street performances at the square."

"Street performances?" Nolan gaped. Why did Damian get to sell crafts while he had to perform like a circus act?

Damian delivered the finishing blow. "It’s just a performance, not selling yourself. Why the hesitation?"

Nolan glared. "Why don’t you do it then?"

Damian smiled serenely. "Like Aria, I earn my keep with skills." Translation: Your lack of talent isn’t my problem.

Aria nodded in agreement, shooting Nolan a dismissive look. "Go or don’t. Figure it out yourself."

[Hahaha Damian’s savage!]

[Nolan: sulking silently.]

[That childhood friend’s judgmental stare—priceless!]

Nolan: "..."

Seeing Aria’s rising irritation, he quickly surrendered. "Fine, I’ll go!"

He’d wanted to prove his growth to her, but someone had ruined it yet again. That scheming Damian was absolutely his nemesis!