Chapter 400: Wherever you go from now on, we’ll follow

Wang Yun’s words, and his appearance on stage this time, had been broadcast live to viewers around the world.

The moment he stepped off the stage, his name locked down the number one spot on the trending charts. What’s more, nearly 90% of internet users across every platform were watching the celebration banquet’s livestream. An overwhelming majority.

No matter what video you clicked on, the comment sections were all the same:

“Big Brother Wang Yun, GOAT!”

It was like the night EDG won the championship all over again—everyone was riding the wave.

The frenzy went far beyond what any media outlet had anticipated.

Even streamers who had nothing to do with the escape show—food bloggers, beauty influencers—started posting videos just to comment on Wang Yun and share their impressions.

And across the board, the reviews were glowing.

Of course, there were always a few exceptions—attention-seekers trying to ride the backlash wave by speaking against the tide, hoping to boost their own visibility by dragging Wang Yun’s name through the mud.

But they failed.

Because Wang Yun’s fans didn’t tolerate that kind of thing.

No debate, no discussion—just instant mass reports.

Even the heads of major platforms personally stepped in, banning accounts that slandered Wang Yun with malicious intent.

In no time, the internet had gone clean—no more clowns jumping around.

But Wang Yun wasn’t paying attention to any of that.

Even though he had a phone now, Director Zhou had already warned him.

He was worried the flood of online praise might affect Wang Yun’s mindset—put simply, that he might let it go to his head.

He’d gently reminded Wang Yun not to focus too much on online chatter.

What mattered most was resting well and preparing for the second season next month.

Wang Yun, not being all that interested in fame to begin with, had agreed without hesitation.

That answer alone had made the director and staff breathe a sigh of relief. Still, Director Zhou didn’t feel completely at ease. He was afraid that some powerful organizations who had watched the show might try to poach him.

Wang Yun’s performance on the show had been just too outstanding.

So Director Zhou took a precaution—he set up encryption on Wang Yun’s phone number.

Unknown callers had to call at least three times within ten seconds for the phone to even ring.

Under normal circumstances, hardly anyone would do that.

And with someone like Wang Yun—so in demand—everyone who wanted to reach him would tread carefully, terrified of upsetting him and losing their golden goose. Even dialing once made them nervous, let alone three times in ten seconds.

Of course, Wang Yun had no idea any of this was happening.

At that moment, he had just stepped backstage.

He’d been thinking of grabbing a bite in the banquet hall. But after the explosion of attention from the audience just now, he was honestly a little hesitant.

Afraid he wouldn’t be able to handle it.

“Teacher Wang, Director Zhou is a bit tied up at the moment, but he gave clear instructions. If you’d rather not be seen, we can bring food straight to your room. Or, if you prefer, you can dine out at sea. We’ll accommodate whatever you need.”

As soon as Wang Yun came offstage, a staff member approached, eyes filled with admiration.

Perfect.

Wang Yun nodded. “Alright, let’s go to the sea. Thank you for the trouble.”

“No trouble at all. It’s what we should be doing.”

The staffer gestured to guide him along.

Wang Yun glanced at Xiao Gang and Brother Hu. The two looked like they wanted to speak, but he waved them off.

He grabbed them by the arms and led them out.

Only after slipping out the hotel’s back door did Wang Yun finally exhale.

He looked at the two, who were clearly holding back something strong.

“I know what you’re about to say,” Wang Yun said, walking toward the shore with a grin. “I chose to split the money with you. Of course, it won’t be a huge cut. It’s just… for the sake of our brotherhood.”

Brother Hu opened his mouth, but Xiao Gang beat him to it.

“Let me speak first,” Xiao Gang said, glancing apologetically at Brother Hu. “No matter how much the money is, I don’t think I have the right to take it. Boss, wait—just hear me out first.”

Wang Yun had been about to respond, but surprisingly, the normally quiet Xiao Gang stood firm today.

He reached out and pressed down on Wang Yun’s shoulder—something even Brother Hu was startled by.

“We joined the show as hired hands. We had salaries, fixed pay. You came for the prize. We came to work. That’s a whole different thing. When I signed up, all I hoped for was to get a bit of screen time, maybe go viral. But now, not only did I get screen time, I’ve basically become a major supporting character. That alone is a huge honor. How could I take your money on top of that?”

The more Xiao Gang spoke, the more fired up he got. By the end, his face was flushed red.

Wang Yun looked at him, a flicker of surprise in his eyes at these unexpected words.

Before he could respond, Brother Hu finally seized the moment.

“Xiao Gang’s right. A man should know when to be content. We can’t take that money. But Boss, this brotherhood between us? That, we’re not letting go. And don’t think you can use a bit of cash to send us on our way. Wherever you go, we’ll follow! Even if it’s season two, we’ll still be your right-hand men!”

Brother Hu declared this with unshakable conviction—slapping his chest as he said it.