Moored Ship

Morning, Opera House.

As the melodious music began, the massive stage curtain slowly opened.

Behind the curtain was a noisy tavern. Patrons chatted and drank while a waitress in a long blue dress moved constantly between the tables, delivering the drinks the customers had ordered.

The waitress's clear, ethereal voice instantly drew everyone's attention amid the chaotic scene.

Creak!

The sound of a door opening rang out.

A figure in a black cloak appeared, sweeping his gaze over the surroundings before walking to a corner of the set and slowly taking a seat.

The waitress hurried over.

"Sir, what would you like?"

The man casually took out two silver coins and tossed them elegantly onto the waitress's tray. "I'll have a cocktail. The other is for you—have whatever you like."

"Thank you, sir." The waitress smiled and quickly went off to prepare the drinks.

In the audience.

"They started from the tavern," Minnie said softly.

Robbie added, "The original story began with introductions to their identities, but that part was omitted."

"Mm, this is pretty good too." Minnie nodded.

Annette said, "The young lady playing Master feels like she's taking every line and movement very seriously."

"But she acts quite well. She just seems a little shorter than Master." Minnie tilted her head for a look.

Wu Heng turned his head slightly to glance at her. "Keep it down. It wouldn't be good if someone heard you."

"Okay, okay!"

In the Association Members' seating area.

Shi Yali watched the performance. "The Fifth Princess is playing Wu Heng?"

"Yes. I had someone investigate. She's been rehearsing the Stage Play lately, so she's been behaving herself," Shiraque said.

"She doesn't look very old. She's rather pitiful too."

Shiraque turned to look at her. "What Treasure Island can do is ensure