The judges were even more fond of Shen Nianxi's well-behaved and sensible demeanor, praising her for being not only talented but also sensible and polite.

Media reporters also gathered around, wanting to interview Shen Nianxi and her family.

"Little Chen Nianxi, how did you feel after receiving the silver award?" a reporter asked with a smile, holding a microphone.

Shen Nianxi looked into the microphone, a bright smile spreading across her face: "I'm so happy and excited. Thank you to my parents and brother for your continued support, and thank you to my teachers for their guidance. This trophy is the result of everyone's hard work, and I will cherish it."

"Mrs. Shen, how do you usually raise your children? Could you share some of your experiences with other parents?" another reporter asked.

Lin Wanqiu took the microphone, her tone gentle and sincere: "I think the most important thing in raising children is to respect their interests and hobbies and give them enough support and encouragement. Every child has their own talents and dreams. As parents, what we need to do is to protect them and let them bravely pursue their dreams. At the same time, we should also focus on cultivating their character and perseverance, so that they can become responsible and accountable people."

Her sincere and simple words won rounds of applause from the guests present. Reporters captured this heartwarming scene, wanting to share this loving family story with more people.

After the interviews concluded, the awards ceremony officially began. The host took to the stage and announced the start of the ceremony with an enthusiastic voice. Accompanied by rousing music, the award winners walked onto the stage in turn to receive their awards according to their award level.

When the host announced, "Silver Award Winner of the Children's Solo Dance Award—Shen Nianxi," the spotlight instantly shone on Shen Nianxi. She took a deep breath, and with encouraging looks from Lin Wanqiu and Shen Tingzhou, clenched her little fists and took firm steps toward the stage.

Her figure shone brightly under the dazzling lights, her pink princess dress swaying gently in the breeze like a graceful butterfly. Below the stage, Lin Wanqiu held Shen Tingzhou's hand tightly, her eyes filled with tears of emotion. Looking at her daughter's small figure, she was overwhelmed with emotion. From the first time her daughter showed interest in dance, to enrolling in dance classes, practicing diligently day after day, and finally standing on the national podium today, every scene vividly flashed before her eyes.

Shen Tingzhou sensed Lin Wanqiu's excitement, gently patted her hand, and whispered comfortingly, "Don't get excited, Xixi is great." His eyes were also filled with pride and emotion. This little daughter, whom Lin Wanqiu had single-handedly raised during the years he was absent, had now grown into a graceful, brave, and confident young woman. This filled him with both joy and a touch of guilt. If it weren't for the mission back then, he might have been able to accompany the children through many more moments of their growth.

Shen Nian'an held up his camera, pressing the shutter button repeatedly, wanting to capture his sister's glorious moment. Looking at his sister on stage, his heart was filled with pride. He had seen her hard work and perseverance, and it had pained him deeply. Now, his sister had finally reaped the rewards she deserved, and he was proud of her.

Shen Nianxi walked to the center of the stage and accepted the certificate of honor and medal presented by the organizers. The medal was gold-plated, engraved with her name and the award she received; it was heavy, symbolizing her hard work and dedication. She bowed deeply to the organizers, then turned around, waved to the audience, and smiled brightly.

Thunderous applause erupted from the audience, and Lin Wanqiu and Shen Tingzhou clapped enthusiastically to cheer on their daughter.

"Next, please welcome Ms. Shen Nianxi, a representative of the award winners, to give a speech!" the host said.

Shen Nianxi took the microphone and looked at the dense crowd below the stage; the tension in her heart instantly dissipated. Her gaze passed through the crowd and landed on Lin Wanqiu, Shen Tingzhou, and Shen Nian'an, where she saw the encouragement and expectation in their eyes.

"Respected leaders, judges, dear uncles, aunts, and children, good afternoon! I am Shen Nianxi from Shandong." Shen Nianxi's clear and melodious voice resonated throughout the banquet hall through the microphone. "Today, I am very happy and honored to stand here to receive the silver award. First of all, I would like to thank my parents for their continued support and encouragement, which has allowed me to bravely pursue my dance dreams; I would like to thank my brother for helping and comforting me when I encountered difficulties; I would also like to thank my dance teacher for her patient guidance, which has helped me continuously improve my dance skills; finally, I would like to thank the organizers of the National Children's Dance Competition for giving me a platform to showcase myself."

She paused, her eyes shining with determination: "This silver medal is both an honor and an encouragement to me. In the days to come, I will practice dancing even harder, live up to everyone's expectations, and strive to stand on a bigger stage and show a better version of myself! Thank you everyone!"

As soon as she finished speaking, thunderous applause erupted from the audience once again, lasting for a very long time. Lin Wanqiu could no longer hold back, and tears welled up in her eyes. These were tears of happiness, tears of pride, tears of immense joy for her daughter's growth and transformation.

Shen Tingzhou gently wiped away the tears from the corners of her eyes, his own eyes welling up with tears as well. He knew that his daughter's speech today was not only an expression of gratitude to everyone, but also a promise to her own dreams. He was proud of his daughter, and felt incredibly happy to be able to be by her side and witness her growth.

After the awards ceremony, many guests and media reporters surrounded Shen Nianxi again to congratulate her and take photos with her. Shen Nianxi cooperated obediently, with a bright smile on her face throughout.

My dear reader, there's more to this chapter! Please click the next page to continue reading—even more exciting content awaits!