Blissful Days After Widowhood - Chapter 377

The beginning of February marked the significant day when Emperor Zhengyuan had set for Gu Ye to acknowledge his ancestors and return to his ancestral roots.

During this time, Gu Ye not only aimed to present himself before the ministers but also accompanied Emperor Zhengyuan to the Taimiao to pay homage to his forebears as the emperor’s eldest son.

The observance of proper etiquette and procedures was paramount, and all of these had to be rehearsed in advance.

Gu Ye continued with his regular classes in the morning and was occupied with final preparations in the afternoon.

Xiao Feng nodded, then shook his head, and finally uttered, “I’m here to see you, but I’m also here to bid farewell.”

Gu Ye inquired earnestly, “Why are you leaving, and where are you headed?”

Xiao Feng explained, “The Theater has been neglected, and the members of the troupe have accused me of hindering others from taking the stage. I’ve approached other theaters in the past two days, but they’ve shown a reluctance to take on any trouble, so they turned me down. Thus, I thought, why not return to Jingu?”

The only talented individuals in his troupe were him and Hua Dan. Now that he couldn’t perform, and Huadan was in jail, it seemed improbable for anyone else to rise to prominence in the capital.

“Why are you going back?” Gu Ye inquired further, “Is it what you truly desire?”

Of course, Xiao Feng didn’t wish to return. He had no family ties or prospects in Jingu, and he lacked recognition. He had initially ventured to the capital due to his struggle to make a living in Jingu.

In the capital, he had the companionship of friends like Gu Ye, had established a reputation, and gained notoriety.

However, the cost of living in the capital was high, and he remained uncertain if he could return to the stage in the future. Thus, he was apprehensive about depleting his resources during this uncertain period.

Hence, he contemplated returning to Jingu, where the cost of living was lower.

Gu Ye gazed at his friend’s disconcerted expression, choosing not to pry further but instead inquiring about his plans for sustenance upon returning.

Xiao Feng responded with a rueful smile, acknowledging that, apart from his singing talent, he lacked any other skills.

And it was estimated that in a short while, his troupe would also disband. 

So he simply replied, “Let’s wait and see.”

“Then, if you’re not singing, you can stay in the capital with us. Our family could use the extra hands,” Gu Ye said, glancing at his mother. He was aware that Gu Yin was considering opening the fourth and fifth floors.

“Oh no,” Brother Xiaofeng blushed and waved his hands, “I’ve come to bid farewell, not to seek employment. I know my limitations. Despite my size, I’m not cut out for heavy lifting or fighting on behalf of others.”

Having said that, he extended his apologies to Gu Ye and Gu Yin, saying, “I also regret not being able to continue ‘Kindness.’ It was an exceptional book, and I shouldn’t have left it unfinished.”

Gu Yin quickly responded, “It’s not your fault; it was due to unforeseen circumstances, and the situation wasn’t what you had in mind. Besides, it was your help in promoting it that brought about the predicament.”

Xiao Feng hurriedly disclaimed any responsibility, attributing the situation to his own carelessness, which had nearly led to his poisoning.

However, Xiao Feng’s observation was accurate. Gu Ye and Eldest Master Wen had put significant effort into creating an exceptional book, and it was a shame that it had only been performed a few times.

Gu Yin felt that Xiao Feng had a natural connection with the audience. Though he couldn’t perform as Hua Dan or Zheng Dan due to his age, he excelled in supporting roles. Even in less desirable roles, his interpretation made them delightful.

The lead Hua Dan was eighteen or nineteen years old, at the prime of his youth, with a voice that matched his, and he played the female  lead with excellence. Still, he couldn’t overshadow Xiao Feng because he lacked the same connection with the audience.

The phenomenon of audience connection was enigmatic, beyond the explanation of modern science. It could be said that Xiao Feng was born to shine on stage.

After pondering for a few days, Gu Yin realized that she couldn’t immediately use the fourth and fifth floors for their original purpose. Upon hearing Xiao Feng’s circumstances, she had a new idea.

“You can’t perform on stage right now, but why don’t you try something else? Ye is right; we need more people at the moment.”

Xiao Feng initially wanted to refuse but was convinced by Gu Yin’s explanation. “I’m not asking you to perform, but to engage in other activities. Your voice might not be suited for singing, but it won’t hinder your everyday speech. We can transition from singing to staging plays. If executed well, it could be a huge success.”

Of course, Xiao Feng wasn’t familiar with stage plays, but given the circumstances, he nodded and said, “As long as you can provide for my livelihood, I’m ready to take your advice.”

Gu Yin allowed him to rest and inquired whether the rest of his troupe members would be willing to transition to staging plays with him.

After reaching a decision, Gu Yin proceeded to draft plans.

The fifth floor, the highest level of Food of Heaven, was designed to function as a performance space, resembling a stage. However, a portion of the fifth floor was designated for backstage use, which meant the ticket office had to be located on a different floor.

Gu Yin established the ticket office on the fourth floor, taking advantage of the large bar area at the front of the fourth floor. While the main bar sold tickets, it also offered popcorn and beverages. Other spaces on the same floor were put to use as food stalls selling a variety of delicious snacks.