Chapter 1950
Chapter 1950: Dance Chapter 1950: Dance Editor: Henyee Translations Shao Yunduan wasn’t particularly fond of these social gatherings, but he understood their necessity and prevalence.
He wouldn’t display any displeasure or rebuke simply because he didn’t enjoy them.
He knew he had to put on a good show and navigate through the day.
As the wine flowed and the dishes circulated, the atmosphere grew even more buoyant.
Conversations grew livelier, with some attempting to introduce risqué humor into the mix.
Observing Shao Yunduan’s disapproving frown, they promptly ceased their inappropriate banter.
Following the main course, the table was cleared, making way for an array of exquisite fruits, snacks, fragrant teas, and fine wines.
The temporary stage, though devoid of any ambiguity, hosted a spirited performance, adding to the festivities.
Despite having listened to performances all afternoon and dining well into the night, the excitement persisted.
Throughout the event, Shao Yunduan received compliments and toasts from those around him.
He handled them with grace, neither overly affable nor aloof, maintaining a perfect balance that allowed no one to overstep their boundaries while leaving no room for criticism.
Feeling weary of the social obligations inside, Shao Yunduan sought respite by stepping outside for a while.
The Cool Breeze Gang, renowned as the most opulent eatery in Anze Prefecture City, boasted a charming back garden, small yet exquisitely designed.
Given its limited space, the garden featured potted flowers of various varieties arranged according to their blooming seasons.
Plum blossoms, camellias, azaleas, and more adorned the landscape, their vibrant hues complementing the surrounding rockery, sweet osmanthus, bamboo, and picturesque pines.
Nestled in one corner stood a quaint pavilion, encircled by water on three sides with a lively pond housing koi and other fish, adding a touch of whimsy to the scene.
As Shao Yunduan strolled amidst the garden’s splendor, he unexpectedly encountered the Second Old Master of the Mei Family.
Engaging in brief conversation, they were soon joined by others, their camaraderie leading them back indoors to enjoy the ongoing performance.
As the afternoon progressed, the sun began its descent toward the western horizon, casting a golden glow over the surroundings.
Gathering once more, the guests accompanied Shao Yunduan for a leisurely walk through the garden, exchanging laughter and conversation.
With dusk approaching, they eventually returned indoors, ready to continue the festivities.
The evening banquet presented a marked contrast to the daytime affairs.
Arranged in a traditional manner, the seating was organized with a prominent central seat flanked by two rows on each side, leaving an open space in the middle.
Adorning the center was an exquisite flower carpet, while sumptuous dishes were served with meticulous care.
As the toasts began, the musicians in the corner struck up a melodious tune, heralding the arrival of a troupe of dancers clad in alluring attire.
With towering elegance and snow-white complexions, they captivated the audience with their mesmerizing performance.
Leading the ensemble was a veiled figure, her eyes gleaming like autumn water, her waist swaying with graceful fluidity as she sang with dulcet tones.
The spectators were instantly enthralled, their eyes alight with admiration and whispered praises.
In particular, the leader of the dancers drew the gaze of nearly everyone present, her beauty both enchanting and mysterious, beckoning with irresistible allure.
The song she sang seemed to resonate with the very essence of nature, its gentle melody teasing at the heartstrings of all who listened.
Each verse seemed to caress the soul, leaving behind a lingering warmth and a tantalizing itch that could not be ignored.
And yet, the veil shrouding her features only served to heighten the anticipation, fueling desires to unveil her true visage.
As the final notes echoed through the hall, the audience erupted into thunderous applause and cheers, their fervor such that they wished to shower the beauty with silver and gold, if only to catch a glimpse of her unveiled face.