Southern Qi.
Inside a luxurious mansion, the sound of drums and music echoed, as dances were being performed in the main hall.
More than ten singers, draped in light veils that barely concealed their bodies, danced. Their movements were sometimes fast, sometimes slow, sometimes strong and robust, sometimes soft as if boneless. Their steps were at times dignified, at times seductive, at times bizarre, at times beyond comprehension.
The guests on either side of the hall were dazzled, almost drooling, clearly unaccustomed to such sights.
Seated in the principal seat was a middle-aged man in brocade robe and jade robes, possessing a handsome appearance, yet his aura was hollow and his cheeks slightly swollen, evidently in poor health.
At that moment, he had a beauty on either side, one feeding him and the other pouring wine, sparing him the need to lift a finger. Yet, he had to eat his own meal and watch the dance himself, with no one to take his place in these endeavours.