The Film Queen Is Cold and Ruthless, Only Sends Money - Chapter 38.1

[Five seconds to provide our live audience with a laugh Su Yun, your sharp tongue is too much, hahaha!]

[Alright, now please show me some respect, netizens. I’m a person who owns two luxury cars now!]

[Rolls-Royce Illusion and Rolls-Royce Nowhere Su Yun, how on earth did you come up with these? Hahaha! I’m jealous of your talent!]

When Su Xue mentioned wanting to experience a luxury car, the director had just stepped out of her room, ready to join them for their trip to Jinguang Mall.

Her heart immediately clenched, realizing it was necessary to give the guests a clear understanding of the show’s budget.

Even if they sold her, the director, they still couldn’t afford to rent a luxury car!

Being able to fulfill the guests’ wishes didn’t mean she had actually turned into a wish-granting angel!

But before she could shatter Su Xue’s daydream-like fantasy, she heard Su Yun’s response and instantly felt that the hotpot lunch for the guests was worth every penny!

Su Yun’s words were far more effective than her own feeble rebuttals.

So, the director smiled and said to Su Xue, “Su Yun is right. Our production team can indeed provide those two cars. If you choose to ride in them, we can fulfill your wish!”

Su Xue, feeling another pang of frustration: “No thanks!”

Standing there waiting for the “Illusion” and “Nowhere” would just mean walking to the mall herself, wouldn’t it?!

The others couldn’t stop laughing either. Liu Yangran patted Su Xue’s shoulder and said, “The production team is letting us shop freely, they’re probably bleeding inside. There’s no way they’d let us ride in luxury cars!”

“You’re right!” Su Xue finally accepted the reality.

Hearing the production team say they could arrange the day according to their wishes had made her giddy with excitement, and she nearly forgot the show’s true nature being stingy to the core!

“Speaking of which,” Lin Yan asked, “didn’t the director mention earlier that our shopping funds would also come from completing games?”

Though Su Xue’s request hadn’t been fulfilled, it reminded them that if they wanted the production team to cover their expenses, they’d have to meet certain conditions.

“Yes, the director did say that,” Jing Zhaozhao nodded. “But we won’t know what the challenge games are until we get to the mall.”

Seeing the director’s meaningful smile, Liu Yangran said, “Maybe we should prepare in advance, just in case? If we end up with no funds, we’ll at least have a backup plan?”

[Hahahahaha! Even though today’s task is entirely up to them, they’re still so cautious!]

[That’s what happens when you’ve lived through tough times, hahaha! They’re always one step ahead, anticipating the worst from the production team!]

[But they don’t have any extra funds on hand right now, do they? Are they going to set up a stall and sell canned goods?]

“If we’re talking about preparations,” Su Yun suggested, “should we bring the stuff we took from the sightseeing bus earlier? If we end up with no funds, we could sell them?”

They were lightweight souvenirs like blessing bracelets and necklaces easy to carry and perfect for emergencies.

Her idea was unanimously approved.

But just as they were about to head back inside to fetch the items, the director stopped them: “No need to worry about funds, everyone. Our production team will take care of it.”

She had already suffered enough heartache from being fleeced earlier!

Originally, I could console myself by thinking that if I couldn’t see it, it was as if it hadn’t been taken but now we have to bring it out again and even flaunt it right in front of her eyes!

Hearing the director’s words, the guests paused for a second.

The possibility of not giving them funds was indeed quite slim.

But the hesitation lasted only a second. After that brief moment, they still went back to their rooms to retrieve the items without the slightest hesitation, their steps as swift as the wind.

All the director could see were their retreating backs, with Lin Yan casually tossing back a remark, “Director, we trust you, but bringing these along isn’t any trouble!”

After all, from the director’s tone, it was clear he didn’t really want them to bring the items.

As guests, isn’t the most important skill to oppose the director at every turn?!

So before even boarding the vehicle, they once again took out all the things they had scavenged from the sightseeing bus earlier.

Director: “…”

[Hahahahahaha! I love watching the director and the guests mess with each other!]

[Lin Yan: Bringing these might not be useful to us, but if it annoys the director, isn’t that the greatest use of all?!]

[The ones who did the looting are now boldly parading their spoils right in front of the director, what a devastating blow, hahahaha!]

[I love watching the director and the guests go at it. Let’s see if the director can stand his ground during the game segment later!]

–

By the time they stood inside the shopping mall, everyone was instantly awestruck by its sheer opulence.

The mall was enormous, clearly divided into six floors, each catering to different needs daily household items, specialty clothing, food, and beverages everything was available.

They were currently on the fourth floor, the most unique level in Jin Guang Mall, dedicated entirely to local specialties.

Local ethnic minority clothing occupied more than half the space, showcasing a dazzling array of colors and styles mountain blues, reds, greens, and even mixed hues. If you could imagine it, you could find it here.

The variety of styles was vast, infused with regional folk elements that drew countless admiring glances.

There was also the food they were most familiar with. Further away, a sea of fiery red no surprise was the chili peppers and various vegetables and fruits they had just eaten.

Even a temporary stage had been set up, where a lively performance was underway, surrounded by a crowd of shoppers.

All in all, it was an incredibly vibrant scene!

[This looks like such a fun place to explore! Everything seems so fresh and dazzling!]

[If I were there, I’d probably want to check out every single piece of clothing, it’s a paradise for shopaholics!]

[Perfect for photo ops! There seem to be so many tourists behind them, all looking like they’re having a blast!]

From the moment they entered, the guests’ eyes were darting everywhere, unable to take it all in they wanted to buy everything!

Su Xue: “I want to check out those clothes right now! That half-skirt is so pretty!”

She was pointing to an ethnic-style half-skirt with intricate embroidery. Even just hanging there, it looked stunning.

“I want to watch the performance over there!” Liu Yangran had noticed the show the moment they arrived. “It seems like the same song that was playing on the sightseeing bus!”

She hadn’t had the chance to ride the bus earlier, only hearing the song when it first arrived, so now she was especially curious.

Su Yun had never seen a supermarket that dedicated an entire floor to local specialties.

But precisely because of this, just standing here, they could feel the strong, distinctive vibe of Jinguang City.

A massive desert landscape played on the screen behind the mall, perfectly matching the local climate. Many tourists who came here chose to wear traditional local attire, while the air was filled with the city’s folk songs, creating an almost 100% immersive experience!

As she browsed the various outfits, Su Yun turned to Jiang Zhi and said, “I think the one on the far left and that hat over there would suit you perfectly. Let’s check them out later and see if they fit!”

While speaking, she kept glancing between the clothes and Jiang Zhi, making Jiang Zhi feel like a Barbie doll being dressed up by Su Yun every piece of clothing seemed to demand a try-on.

The thought made Jiang Zhi chuckle. “No need to try so many. You should also see if there’s anything you like.”

Su Yun nodded, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Don’t worry, we definitely won’t leave empty-handed today. If we have time, let’s see if we can pick up something for Aunt Liu and Xiao Bai too!”

She wouldn’t forget any member of the household!

Jiang Zhi: “…”

Hearing Xiao Bai’s name, Jiang Zhi realized Su Yun was determined to milk every opportunity the show provided.

Well, she should be happy at least she ranked higher than Xiao Bai.

The director had been waiting for them to calm down from their excitement and curiosity, but even after five minutes, the guests were still enthusiastically discussing what they wanted to buy, showing no signs of quieting down.

[HAHAHAHAHA! You can tell the guests genuinely love this segment! This is the most excited they’ve ever been!]

[I kinda suspect that if the director had already given them the money, the guests would’ve bolted by now!]

[No need to suspect, HAHAHA! The only reason they’re still standing here is that the director hasn’t handed out the cash yet!]

The director had no choice but to seize a gap in their chatter and interject, “Everyone, you’ve now arrived at Jinguang City’s most famous specialty floor. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of local products waiting to be discovered far more diverse than what was on our tour bus.

However, you’ll need to complete two tasks first before you can truly earn your shopping funds and take home the specialties you buy.”

“Two tasks?” Lin Yan asked curiously. “Are these two tasks connected in some way?”

Their previous paper-cutting challenge had been linked to an earlier task, which was why Lin Yan made the guess.

Liu Yangran sighed. “So shopping isn’t going to be that easy after all!”

Her remark earned unanimous agreement from the group.

Su Xue, however, remained optimistic. “But we have Su Yun with us. I believe no matter what the tasks are, we’ll be able to complete them!”

She now trusted Su Yun unconditionally as long as they followed her, they wouldn’t have to worry about any difficult challenges the show threw at them.

Su Yun, suddenly burdened with high expectations: “…?”

She turned to Su Xue. “What if it’s a separate task for each group? Then I won’t be able to help you.”

[I know how this goes! Not only will Su Yun not help them, she’ll probably set traps for them too, HAHAHA! Has Xue forgotten about that extra paper-cutting task already?]

[Two tasks to complete! Seems like one viewer’s earlier guess was right! The better the activities and services they enjoy, the harder the challenges will be!]

“Completing tasks in this kind of mall doesn’t feel any easier than other missions! I have a feeling we’re in for some entertainment soon!”

After Su Yun finished speaking, Su Xue also realized this point.

She let out a wail, “Without a mission partnered with Su Yun, it feels like there are pitfalls everywhere!”

Not only were there traps set by the production team, but there were also the seemingly effortless ones Su Yun casually laid out for them each one a guaranteed hit!

Hearing her lament, Su Yun turned to Jiang Zhi and asked, “Are we really that terrifying?”

Jiang Zhi thought back to their previous missions, hesitated for a moment, then denied it: “Not really. Maybe they just want to work with you.”

After all, with Su Yun around, any task could be solved in some bizarre yet effortless way something Jiang Zhi had personally experienced.

Hearing Jiang Zhi’s words, Su Xue nodded and asked Su Yun, “If it’s an individual mission, can you go easy on us?”

As soon as she said this, Liu Yangran’s team and Lin Yan’s team also chimed in, “And us!”

[Hahahahaha! Anyone who didn’t know better would think Su Yun is the director! I’m dying of laughter!]

[You all say Su Yun isn’t scary, yet you’re begging her to go easy on you! Can’t you be a little more sincere?!]

[Our Best Actress Jiang has been completely assimilated by Su Yun! She doesn’t even see anything wrong with this scene! Truly the couple I stan!]

Su Yun reassured them, “Don’t worry, everyone! If it’s a solo mission, we won’t interfere after completing our own tasks… At most, we might have a few creative ideas?”

Wouldn’t that make the game more fun?

The others: Your “creative ideas” are the most terrifying part!

The overlooked director felt the need to reassert her authority.

Why was everyone begging Su Yun for mercy instead of the director when the rules were about to be announced?

She and the staff stood opposite the guests, clearing her throat to grab their attention: “If there are no further questions, I’ll now explain the side games and tasks for the shopping activity. Once you receive your funds, you can start shopping!

First, we’ll have everyone play a simple mini-game. Each guest only needs to complete the corresponding objective to earn their shopping budget. Rest assured, everyone’s budget will be the same and sufficient for your shopping needs.

However, these funds are only temporarily yours, and any items purchased will also be temporarily owned. If you wish to turn ‘temporary’ into ‘permanent,’ you’ll need to complete a corresponding second task.”

After hearing the director’s explanation, the guests understood her meaning.

Jing Chaochao was the first to ask, “What happens if we don’t complete the second task?”

Director: “Then you’ll have to return all your purchases. Alternatively, Jin Guang Mall has various job postings feel free to explore those options.”

Following the director’s gesture to the left, they spotted a restaurant with a “Help Wanted” sign.

Jing Chaochao: “…”

“Director, you’re underestimating us!” Lin Yan retorted. “When we walked back to our place earlier, we familiarized ourselves with the surroundings. We could even deliver takeout if needed!”

Xu Zhi: “…”

So the skills Su Yun mentioned are actually being put to use!

Liu Yangran: “Luckily, we brought some local specialties before heading out. We can sell them if needed might come in handy later.”

Isn’t this the benefit of preparing for a rainy day?! It feels like the director’s earlier threat about having to work part-time has lost much of its sting!

Director: “As long as everyone works hard and completes the tasks, you won’t have to sell your specialties!”

Hearing this, Su Yun suddenly recalled a saying.

Perhaps her expression was too obvious, because Jiang Zhi beside her sensed she had something to say and asked, “Do you have any thoughts?”

Su Yun nodded. “I just remembered a saying.”

“What saying?” Jiang Zhi asked.

Su Yun: “When she was young, she had no money. After years of hard work, she finally… was no longer young.”

Applied to the task they were doing now, it made perfect sense.

[Hahahahahaha! What kind of philosophical statement is this from Su Yun?! And it’s not wrong at all!]

[Don’t worry, even if you shop all afternoon and end up without money to pay, you can still return the items! Hahahaha!]

[The director’s final warning fail the task and you’ll have to work is so fitting! Hahahaha!]

[As expected of the production team! Even shopping has to keep the guests on edge, terrified they won’t be able to afford anything! Is this what a leisure trip looks like?!]

[I bet next season, every time they start a new segment, the director will add another rule: Free specialties can’t be taken, sold, or used only admired!]

[They’re only filming the second episode, and the rules have already been updated countless times! Director, be honest are you filming a beta version right now, using the guests to help you find bugs?! Hahahaha!]

Director: “Now, let’s begin the first game. The rules are as follows:

We’ll give each of you a pair of headphones playing music. Once you put them on, you won’t be able to hear any outside sounds.

We’ll provide a common word or phrase. One person in the group must mouth it to their partner, who has to guess it.

Note: During this game, you can’t use exaggerated gestures or actions related to the word, but you can indicate the number of characters in it.

Each group must correctly guess three words to earn their shopping funds.”

After the director explained the rules, the guests received their headphones.

Su Yun tried hers on, the moment the headphones touched her ears, all outside noise was completely blocked out.

She glanced at Jiang Zhi, who was also wearing hers. She could see Jiang Zhi’s lips moving slightly, as if speaking to her, but she couldn’t hear a thing.

“The noise cancellation is amazing!” Liu Yangran exclaimed after testing hers, noticing the others shared her reaction. “I couldn’t hear any of you just now.”

Ye Ying added, “So both the guesser and the one mouthing the words have to wear headphones? That seems pretty difficult!”

After all, communication between the two would be entirely cut off, leaving only lip-reading as a clue.

Director: “Correct. But don’t worry, if you answer correctly, the production team and other guests will give you a signal, and you can move on to the next word.”

Since they were in a mall, to avoid disrupting normal operations, the production team had coordinated with the staff to reserve a spot for them on the fourth floor, a quieter, more secluded corner.

They walked together to the game location, and along the way, Lin Yan sighed with relief: “Luckily, it’s quite secluded. Otherwise, having an audience watching us complete tasks would really add some psychological pressure.”

During their time on the show, they were either exposing their own embarrassing pasts or constantly creating new ones in real-time.

“But Director Lin, don’t you still watch the edited version of the show?” Ye Ying asked. “Surely you wouldn’t mind having an audience on-site?”

She thought that if someone had the courage to watch their own variety show recordings, their mental resilience must be pretty strong!

As for her, whenever she saw her own performances in variety shows, she always avoided them like the plague!

Lin Yan shook her head: “It’s not the same. Watching a livestream or an edited version still has the buffer of a screen. But having people watch me embarrass myself in real life that’s definitely different.”

She wasn’t wrong, but Su Yun, walking at the front, saw the scene ahead and said to Lin Yan, “I think you might be in for a surprise.”

“Huh?” Before Lin Yan could process the meaning behind Su Yun’s words, she saw the scene before her.

Just as the director had said, it was a corner on the fourth floor of the mall neither too big nor too small, with two chairs set up for the game and a question board behind them displaying the words they would soon have to guess.

The only difference from what they’d imagined was the crowd surrounding the area, layer upon layer, three rings deep inside and out, too many to count. The sheer number instantly registered in their minds as: super! freaking! huge!

Lin Yan froze mid-step: “…These people aren’t all here to watch our show, are they?”

Just imagining the upcoming game scenario made her think that skipping this shopping trip might not be such a bad idea!

During the first episode’s filming, many people online had snapped photos of them completing tasks, and He Rong County had even gained fame because of it.

Since it was relatively close by and transportation had improved significantly, coupled with the live broadcasts showcasing the scenery and local cuisine, many viewers chose to visit He Rong County during holidays after watching the show.

As Dear Them grew in popularity, the audience for the second season’s livestream doubled, and many fans hoped the production team would film an episode in their hometowns.

The crew had collected and considered these wishes, but of course, they couldn’t fulfill them all.

Most of the spectators today were locals from Jinguang City, with a few who had traveled there specifically after seeing the show’s official announcement about the location.

Some hadn’t even watched the show but had stumbled upon the crowd, assuming there was some big event happening. After explanations from passersby, they learned about Dear Them.

“Dear Them is really entertaining! You can catch the full edited version of their last episode right now.”

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