Chapter 340: Climb That Mountain and Hear Their Stories

Sitting in the venue, Fang Zhou received a message from Han Xi, which warmed his heart. She truly was an exceptional boss—supportive without asking for anything in return, just companionship.

Fang Zhou didn’t know how to thank her. He wondered if she would still find value in him, with his worn-out, nearly broken body.

As Li Siming had said, “Han Xi treats you so well, yet you still act tough and stubborn. I don’t know whether to call you foolish or principled.”

Fang Zhou would usually scoff at such remarks, replying disdainfully, “I’m not selling myself.”

But now, his thoughts had shifted. If everyone has hard-to-reach dreams that come at a great cost, then he was willing to help Han Xi achieve hers.

Of course, these were just fleeting thoughts. His attention soon shifted back to the competition.

Today’s finals were a one-on-one knockout format. With over 20 teams, they needed to win at least two matches to rank in the top ten.

Fang Zhou felt anxious. He was confident they’d make the top ten, but anything beyond that was uncertain. He estimated they’d probably place around third or fourth.

Everyone was skilled, and he didn’t expect Li Siming’s team to clinch first place. Doing their best was all that mattered.

Next to him sat his sister, Fang Wenjing, and Zhang Zhiyin. They kept a low profile, wearing hats and sunglasses. Even if the camera panned to them, few would recognize them. Zhang Zhiyin, being somewhat famous, didn’t want to draw attention and distract from the competitors.

“Brother, I’m so nervous. They’ve started the match!” Fang Wenjing said, gripping her brother’s hand tightly, her palm sweaty.

The first round match-ups were displayed on several small screens. Spectators could choose which match to focus on.

Fang Zhou handed tissues to Zhang Zhiyin and Fang Wenjing, comforting them, “It’s okay. We’ve made it to the nationals. Winning or losing doesn’t matter. Let’s enjoy the spectacle and not stress too much.”

They’d already accomplished so much by reaching this point, and Fang Zhou felt at peace. Zhang Zhiyin smiled and reassured Fang Wenjing, “It’s alright. We need to have faith in them.”

She glanced at Fang Zhou’s relaxed smile, which eased her own nerves.

The first match results were soon in. The Star Chasers advanced to the second round, and many spectators eagerly awaited their next performance.

Fang Zhou could hear the excited shouts from the rows ahead.

“Wow! What a powerful team! Never heard of them before, but they seem really strong!”

“No kidding! The team I was rooting for got crushed by them! I’m switching my support to the Star Chasers. From now on, I’m their biggest fan!”

Fang Zhou felt a secret delight. Good choice, supporting my team won’t disappoint you.

As the second match began, more spectators focused on Fang Zhou’s team.

“They’re up against last year’s fifth-place team. This will be tough!”

“Yeah, bad luck meeting such a strong team in the second round. Otherwise, they could’ve lasted longer.”

The livestream chat flew by, but Han Xi could still read it. She furrowed her brows, curious to see how far this team could go.

The Star Chasers soon silenced their doubters with their outstanding performance. The past top ten teams had been thoroughly analyzed by Su Yang, who crafted effective strategies. Although the match was tough, they secured victory.

The crowd erupted in cheers for the Star Chasers. Fang Zhou clenched his fist in excitement, praising Su Yang’s precise analysis.

True to his expectations, familiarity with past performances can often lead to complacency, and the Star Chasers’ victory was no surprise.

Their momentum continued into the third match, although it was a hard-fought battle against last year’s top three. They persevered and won.

Li Siming and Su Yang hugged each other in excitement, “We did it! They’re in the top five!”

This unexpected achievement was beyond everyone’s expectations.

By the afternoon, the Star Chasers had secured third place—an impressive feat for a rookie team. While they didn’t win the championship, it was a joyous surprise for them.

As Li Siming accepted the award on behalf of the team, golden confetti rained down, celebrating their victory. A message appeared on the big screen: “Climb that mountain, and you’ll hear their stories.”

During the interview, Li Siming shared their journey from forming the team to reaching the finals, moved to tears by the memories.

Many were touched by their spirit and cheered loudly. Fang Zhou, with teary eyes, waved his colorful flag, shouting their names.

He thought to himself, “Two million! That’s two million!”

The championship prize was ten million, the runner-up five million, and the third place earned two million. With this money, they could achieve many great things.

Zhang Zhiyin glanced at Fang Zhou and smiled, wishing for his continued happiness.