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 Ethan Smith and Michael Johnson, who didn’t care about the spotlight, the others were already strategizing how to stand out—especially Lily Green.

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.

Lucy White reluctantly tore her gaze away from a pair of clay figurines and tugged at Olivia Davis’ sleeve. "I really want to buy these!"

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

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

"I’ll borrow tools from a pottery shop and make clay figurines to sell," Lucy 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?" Olivia’s eyes widened in surprise.

Lucy nodded. "I’ve learned before."

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

Lucas Young and Benjamin Harris immediately volunteered. "We’ll help!"

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

The livestream exploded with reactions:

[Lucy 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? Lucy can do anything!]

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

Once Lucy was set, she turned to Olivia. "What about you?"

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

Lucy then glanced at Ethan and Michael. "What’s your plan?"

Ethan 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.

[Ethan knows woodcarving?]

[I’d buy it even if it’s ugly!]

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

[This ship is sailing!]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Hahaha Ethan’s savage!]

[Michael: sulking silently.]

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

Michael: "..."

Seeing Lucy’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 Ethan was absolutely his nemesis!