Chereads / The story of Chen Yen Zu / Chapter 3 - Chapter 3 - Bright and crisp voice

Chapter 3 - Chapter 3 - Bright and crisp voice

**The Eatery Near the Theater Troupe**

Yan Zu's stomach grumbled incessantly as he glanced at the ten dollars in his pocket.

*Internal Monologue*: If I spend this, I won't have enough left to take the train back to Dongguan to visit my parents. Maybe I should return and seek out my uncle instead.

Feeling the pangs of hunger, Yan Zu reluctantly decided to return to the theater.

**Outside the Troupe**

As Hao, also known as Jiahao, was tidying up outside, he spotted Yan Zu approaching with his luggage, a grimace etched on his face.

Hao hurried inside to find Ah Hua.

"Taipan! Taipan! Your nephew is back!" Hao called out.

"Keep practicing, everyone. I'll step out for a moment," Ah Hua replied.

As Ah Hua stepped outside, he remarked, "So you've finally decided to return. Quickly drop off your luggage and join your senior brothers and sisters for practice."

"I have a request," Yan Zu replied earnestly.

"You're always a handful. Why so many demands?" Ah Hua asked, a serious tone in his voice.

"As soon as I earn enough money, I'll go back to find my parents," Yan Zu stated.

"Alright, it's a deal! But you must return on your own," Ah Hua said.

Yan Zu beamed, his smile the first in years.

Since the age of five, he had faced challenges due to his physical differences, as his father and grandparents often made life difficult for him.

Being the son of the village chief, his upbringing was far from joyful. His parents and grandparents didn't harbor hatred; rather, they sought to protect their innocent and handsome little boy.

From that day forward, Yan Zu trained in Cantonese opera alongside a group of children. While Ah Hua was particularly nurturing towards his nephew, he treated all apprentices with equal care.

**A Year Later: Lunar New Year 1966**

The troupe received an invitation to perform at the Foshan Grand Theater.

Still in training, Yan Zu accompanied the troupe, primarily serving as a makeup artist and bringing tea to the Hua Dan and senior members.

He began learning martial arts and opera singing, showcasing a natural talent in the latter. Due to his gentle voice, he often chose to sing Hua Dan roles.

**Three Years Later: Lunar New Year**

The troupe was invited to present "Farewell My Concubine" at the Foshan Grand Theater.

Hao portrayed Cheng Dieyi while Ah Hua took on the role of Overlord.

On February 16, 1968, New Year's Eve, backstage at the theater, the members busily prepared for the evening's performance.

Ah Hua was getting ready to don his Overlord costume.

"Master, can I assist you with your makeup?" Yan Zu inquired.

"Overlord's makeup is quite complex. Are you sure you can manage it?" Ah Hua replied.

"I observed Aunt Wang applying it for you recently," Yan Zu explained.

Ah Hua recalled Wang Ling's words from a few weeks back...

"Taipan, your little nephew is quite talented. He does excellent makeup and has a beautiful voice," Wang Ling remarked.

"Really? Has he been learning makeup from you?" Ah Hua asked.

"He's not only learned makeup; he's also been singing Cantonese opera," Wang Ling answered.

**Back to the Present**

"Alright! You can help me with my makeup tonight," Ah Hua consented.

"Great! I'm excited!" Yan Zu replied eagerly.

That evening, Yan Zu meticulously assisted Ah Hua with his makeup. Ah Hua appreciated every effort Yan Zu made, contemplating the bright future that lay ahead for his nephew.

Four hours later, the performance concluded.

As the theater troupe prepared to head home for New Year's Eve celebrations, Ah Hua clapped his hands.

"Everyone has worked hard tonight. I, Mr. Chen, will treat you all to a lavish late-night supper for New Year's Eve dinner!" Ah Hua announced.

The troupe responded with enthusiastic applause. Meanwhile, Yan Zu was busy collecting decorations and costumes, unaware of Ah Hua's announcement. He found a quiet corner to rest and pulled out a small purse.

This purse, crafted by his mother during a past Chinese New Year, stirred memories...

"Azu, come here! This purse is made by your mother. It's blue, and your name is embroidered on it," Amei had said.

**June 10, 2010, Hong Kong**

Yan Zu produced the weathered blue purse from his cheongsam.

"Wow, this purse is beautifully sewn! Your mother must have made it for you," Xiaochen remarked.

"Yes, my mother insisted I must never lose it. It's a way for her to recognize me when I grow up and if she ever needs to find me," Yan Zu replied.

"Did your mother ever come to the theater troupe to search for you?" Xiaochen inquired.

Yan Zu smiled but chose not to answer.

**-End of Chapter-**