Chapter Forty-Five: Entering the Rhythm of Departure

As the reconciliation between Red Bean Entertainment and the "Tang Dynasty" bar unfolded, the wave of public opinion gradually subsided, returning to normalcy. Lin Qihua received greetings and congratulations from various friends. Qin Lulu, ever perceptive, had guessed some of the inside story. "Another classic battle in the public sphere, isn’t it?"

"Indeed. When you’re part of it, no one can escape," Lin Qihua replied with a smile.

"True—it’s a valuable learning experience. But the key is always strength, right?"

"Yes, strength." It was certainly so. Without the powerful launch of the promotional video and the undeniable fact of Lin Qihua’s downloads breaking a hundred million in three days, Red Bean Entertainment would not have retreated so simply. If it came to a real confrontation, Red Bean had many tricks up its sleeve.

"Another lesson learned," Qin Lulu murmured, her mood a little low, perhaps recalling her own past battles in the arena of public opinion.

"Do you have any plans lately, Lulu?" Lin Qihua asked with concern. Qin Lulu was Han Dong’s closest friend, and Lin Qihua believed that even if Han Dong had left, he would always be keeping an eye on her wellbeing.

"I’ve already registered a studio, begun recruiting staff, and started building the framework. Whether there’s business or not, I need to stay busy," she said with a gentle laugh.

Lin Qihua smiled. Qin Lulu had risen to become a leading actress, her value soaring alongside her popularity. It was impossible she’d have no work; her chief concern now was surely establishing her own studio and taking charge of her career.

"I’ll definitely be there for your grand opening."

"Of course," she replied.

Compared to Qin Lulu, the scatterbrained Zhang Zilin was much more talkative. She couldn’t grasp the subtlety of the recent turmoil, but she knew Lin Qihua had won, and was overjoyed for him. She chattered endlessly over the phone, and Lin Qihua listened patiently, smiling, ending the call only when she tired herself out. Perhaps what she needed most was simply a channel for her feelings—the life of a trainee was truly harsh.

With the storm behind him, Lin Qihua returned to his usual rhythm. Yet, thanks to the events, the band enjoyed greater attention—every performance was met with thunderous applause, filling them with a sense of accomplishment.

Ah Hui knew that Lin Qihua would eventually leave, and so accelerated his search for a new lead singer. Fortunately, with "Hellfire" now renowned, many singers no longer saw joining the band as beneath them and were willing to negotiate.

By March, it was settled. The new lead singer was Shen Ming, who had been struggling in Beijing for years, waiting for his chance. When Ah Hui reached out, Shen Ming finally resolved to join the band. He came from a formal company’s training program and, in auditions, demonstrated outstanding vocal ability, adept arrangement skills, and a wild performance style—perfectly suited to "Hellfire." His presence ensured the band’s strength wouldn’t wane after Lin Qihua’s departure. Shen Ming hoped that, through the high-profile "Tang Dynasty" bar and "Hellfire," he could take a circuitous route to reach the grand stage. Thus, his motivation was unquestionable.

Once the decision was made, Shen Ming formally joined the band, beginning the process of blending and practice. Only through gradual transition could they achieve seamless succession. Lin Qihua and Ah Hui had agreed that all of Lin Qihua’s current songs would be freely licensed to the band, preserving its unique style—especially "Dream of the Tang Dynasty," an essential number for the bar. If Lin Qihua left and the song disappeared from their repertoire, it would impact the bar greatly. Lin Qihua’s generosity was a gesture of gratitude for the opportunities and acceptance he’d received from the band. He believed in repaying kindness; had the "Tang Dynasty" bar not hired him, had the band not taken him in, he wouldn’t have enjoyed so many chances to perform. Perhaps he might have languished in another bar, never to rise again. Not to mention the immense support the bar had given him during the recent turmoil—he owed them, whatever the cost.

In April, Shen Ming began rotating performances. Each night, he and Lin Qihua would share the set list, gradually taking over lead singer duties. While there was a noticeable difference in performance—Shen Ming lacked that element in his voice that moved people—overall, the gap was not dramatic. That distinction would determine their futures.

One evening, after the show, Sister Mei summoned Lin Qihua to the conference room on the bar’s third floor.

Inside, two women were seated. Lin Qihua glanced quickly—at the center, a woman in a black sweater, long wavy hair, her refined features exuding allure; at her right sat a woman of elegant composure, whose every gesture radiated gentle charm.

"This is Sister Feng," Sister Mei introduced, "the owner of our bar."

"Hello, Sister Feng," Lin Qihua greeted her respectfully. "Thank you for your support all this time."

She smiled, her gaze captivating. "With words like that, my efforts weren’t in vain. I invited you here today mainly to introduce someone—the lady beside me, Mrs. Yu Fengqin, owner of Galaxy Entertainment Agency."

"You can call me Sister Qin," Yu Fengqin said warmly, extending her hand for a handshake. "Sister Feng has sung your praises to me many times. I’ve been eagerly anticipating your achievements—now, finally, we meet."

"Hello, Sister Qin," Lin Qihua replied respectfully. "Thank you for your interest."

"Qihua," Sister Feng said, waiting for him to sit, "you probably know why you’re here. I wanted to introduce you to Sister Qin. She’s very interested in working with you. My personal opinion is that Galaxy Entertainment would be a perfect fit. If you’re interested, you can talk with her."

"Of course, it’s an honor," Lin Qihua replied with a smile. "With Sister Feng’s recommendation, I’m sure it’s right. I’ve heard of Galaxy Entertainment—though not a large company, it’s strong, devoted to nurturing talent, and famous for its humane management. Artists feel they belong—I personally am very fond of it."

"Thank you for the compliment," Sister Qin replied with a wry smile, sincerity in her voice. "To be honest, the company is struggling lately, suppressed by competitors, our strength has waned. I’m here not so much to nurture, but to reinforce. I won’t deceive you—if you join Galaxy, you’ll face considerable pressure. The company will expect you to deliver results quickly to ease its burdens, instead of waiting for opportunities. Sister Feng and I both recommended you, but I won’t lie—other companies might offer you better terms and opportunities."

"My recommendation for Galaxy Entertainment isn’t about helping my friend," Sister Feng explained to Lin Qihua. "From my perspective, big companies aren’t suited to you. They won’t give you the space you need. Their domineering style and strict policies could stifle your talent. At Galaxy, I can guarantee you’ll get the greatest freedom."

"Yes, you can arrange your own time. You won’t be forced to attend shows or programs you dislike—everything’s open for discussion. The company will provide full agency support: a dedicated manager, makeup artist, personal assistant, wardrobe specialist—everything you need to help you settle in quickly," Sister Qin added. For Lin Qihua, these conditions were excellent.

Lin Qihua looked at the nervous Sister Qin and smiled. "Sister Feng understands me well. Galaxy Entertainment truly is the best fit. I’ve been with large companies—I know what it’s like to lose freedom. Small companies, though lacking resources, allow someone with ability to achieve outstanding results. I have confidence in myself. Compared to resources, freedom is what I value most. As long as Sister Qin is willing to sign me, I have no objections."

"Ah?" Sister Qin was surprised. "You’re agreeing already?"

"Why, do you need me to deliberate longer?" Lin Qihua chuckled. He’d long considered his future—large companies wouldn’t value him highly or offer great terms. Inside, he’d face a complex environment and tangled relationships. He preferred the simplicity and freedom of a small company. As for the resources of big companies—more songs, more publicity—Lin Qihua was confident he could handle those himself.

"This is hard to believe," Sister Qin admitted, still incredulous. "I thought you’d at least take a few days to consider, learn more about the company, seek advice, then decide."

"Heh. First, I deeply respect Sister Feng—she’d never lead me astray. Second, I’ve already researched your company. For me, it’s not about salary, scale, or resources, but the company’s management and atmosphere. I like Galaxy Entertainment. Third, my parents support any decision I make."

"Excellent, you have real resolve. I believe you’ll achieve great things," Sister Feng applauded with a laugh. "You haven’t let me down."

"I’ve seen Sister Feng’s methods," Lin Qihua said with a smile. "She only steps in when needed, and when she does, she changes everything—always hits the mark, unstoppable. With your confidence in me, I’m even more sure of myself."

"Thank you for your trust," Sister Qin, seasoned as an entertainment company boss, quickly recovered despite her surprise. "Since you’re so decisive, I can’t be stingy. Given you’ll only officially return in September, I’d like us to sign a private agreement first. You can begin training with the company, and in September, we’ll hold a formal press conference and sign a full contract, with all benefits matching those of a top-tier celebrity."

"Sister Qin, your decision surprises me as well," Sister Feng remarked, amazed at the offer.

Sister Qin smiled gently, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I’ve done thorough research on Qihua—even if he’s achieved nothing yet, by year-end he’ll easily rate as a second-tier star. Not to mention, with ‘Little Luck’ breaking a hundred million downloads, that’s his greatest asset. After returning to the company, with just a year or two of effort, rising to top-tier status isn’t a dream. I have confidence in him—and besides, since we’ll renegotiate in a year or two, why not start at the top? It shows I value him, doesn’t it?"

"This time, I’m truly impressed." Lin Qihua reached out with a smile. "Here’s to our collaboration."

"To our collaboration," Sister Qin replied, shaking his hand with delight.