Peerless Dancer

Chapter 10: Woman or Man?

If we could please the audience, our status and value would soar, and the brothel madam wouldn't dare to offend us. However, if we failed, we would either be killed or sold into s*****y. Fortunately, more often than not, those who didn't succeed were sold rather than executed, as it allowed the brothel to recoup some losses.

Long Dan and I were discovered in the wild by a scout working for Hua Mama, who is akin to a talent scout in the 21st century, though much more ruthless. Many men captured this way, unaware of the performance rules, ended up as slaves.

Here, men's status seemed remarkably low.

We were taken directly to the basement, a place designed for first-time male performers. Hua Que Lou is strictly managed, with male performers closely monitored. Within the establishment, we were somewhat safe, but the moment we stepped out, Hua Mama would have us followed to prevent escape.

"When can we be truly free?" I asked.

"What freedom?" Mei Jin looked puzzled.

"To completely leave Hua Que Lou."

Mei Jin shook her head, "Why would you want to leave? Many dream of becoming top performers like you. Why would you want to leave this life of luxury?"

Long Dan asked, "Many people want to be like us?"

"Yes, Young Master Long. You have everything you could want here. Why leave?"

I remarked to Long Dan, "Just like our society in the 21st century. Who doesn’t want to be a star?"

Long Dan worriedly asked, "Do you want this?"

I shook my head, "No."

That kind of glamorous life might be something I’d want to try, but not for a lifetime. It’s too exhausting.

Mei Jin mentioned that outside performances, we had some free time, but leaving required permission from Hua Mama or a chief guard like Old Seven.

Looking at the table of snacks and fruits, I had no appetite. I asked Mei Jin about the street food, and she suggested we try some.

Despite the tiring night, we didn’t feel exhausted. Mei Jin’s suggestion was too tempting to ignore.

Long Dan was equally eager. Since arriving in this world, she seemed different—more lively and fun.

I asked Mei Jin if we had other clothes besides our performance outfits. She opened the wardrobe, revealing an array of men’s clothing.

Long Dan, seeing my disappointment, said, "Remember, you’re a man now."

I asked Mei Jin if she could accompany us outside.

She said, "Yes, of course."

I whispered to Long Dan to ask Mei Jin for another set of clothes so I could wear hers.

Mei Jin overheard and suggested, "Young Master Wu, I can ask Hua Mama for a set of women's clothes for you and have someone design your hair accordingly. My sister, Yan Ling’er, is very skilled."

I was surprised, "Really? Do we need to dress as women to go out?"

Mei Jin explained that previous performers often got harassed outside, so a rule was made to allow them to dress as women to avoid trouble.

I laughed, "Smart, like wearing sunglasses! But more effective. A disguise would be hard to recognize." Long Dan smiled quietly.

I told Mei Jin to proceed. She asked, "What identity should you assume?"

She glanced at Long Dan and quickly looked away, blushing. I made a face at Long Dan, who shrugged helplessly.

I asked Long Dan for her opinion, feeling like a child with a new toy, eager to try out different roles. None of my ideas seemed right, so I asked Mei Jin for a suggestion. She nervously said, "I suggest you and Young Master Long dress as mistress and maid, with Young Master Long as the mistress."

I was taken aback but agreed. Mei Jin left to prepare. I complained to Long Dan about always being the servant.

Ignoring me, Long Dan pointed out that the clothes in the wardrobe were likely worn by others and could be dirty. I dropped the clothes, conceding, but retorted, "You can’t expect too much now that we’re men."

Long Dan warned me not to cause trouble or attract women’s attention, knowing how hard it could be. Her tone softened into laughter as she said it.

I pouted, "I was just adapting! Women are trouble, but men too? What do I do?"

"You have to act like a man. Otherwise, if we get caught, we’re in serious trouble."

"You dislike being a man too, yet you’re lecturing me?" I countered.

"Embrace the situation. Unlike you, I have no interest in love or wealth. Join me, and we’ll make the best of this."

I wanted to argue about my desire for love, but Long Dan’s blunt assessment silenced me. She was right; I’d never been serious about any of my past relationships.

"Fine, you’re right. I’ll follow your lead, Super Nagging Male Performer!"

Long Dan grinned, "Being a performer is fine for now. When we’re tired of this life, we’ll find a way out and start anew."

Curious, I asked about her plans. She reminded me of our expertise in archaeology, suggesting we could seek out ancient treasures. Inspired, I recalled the wealth of knowledge we possessed about historical sites.

As we discussed, Mei Jin returned with a girl and several maids carrying makeup supplies. They quickly transformed us.