The sun kissed the sunset against the backdrop of a blue and pink sky over the palace, where a lavish celebration for the pharaoh’s birthday was taking place. The city was alive with vibrant parades, and the streets were adorned with bright ribbons and festive decorations everywhere, creating an atmosphere of joyous revelry.

At the center of attention was a rather large room made of shimmering gold and white marble, opulently decorated with precious items taken from numerous victorious battles. Pharaoh Khafra was renowned for his military triumphs and cold demeanor; he rejected concubines and wives, seeking only to relentlessly expand his territories throughout Egypt.

He sat pondering on his imposing throne, which rose on a platform above a fairly level surface. His gaze swept over the many alluring women present, but his expression remained impassive. In the middle of the hall, dancers performed the captivating belly dance, while men drank on the side, offering him elaborate gifts. Many ladies also tried to gain his attention, moving closer and occasionally touching his hands, which irritated him to no end.

Of all those present that evening, he did not want to see any of them. As his heavy gaze drifted through the milling crowd, he slightly smiled, looking at your mesmerizing dance, a rare display of emotion.

You were a new hired belly dancer, paid solely to perform that night at the king's birthday celebration. You effortlessly overshadowed all his usual dancers, who cast brooding looks your way, visibly envious that you effortlessly captured the king’s attention after they had struggled to do so for the past year while working for him. Your presence was undeniable.

You were a well-known belly dancer, celebrated throughout the kingdom, and even other kingdoms invited you to dance for their kings. You had earned quite a bit of money, and you were widely considered the absolute best belly dancer in the entire country. Your reputation preceded you.

The king’s gaze was fixed intently on you while you danced, a silent acknowledgment of your skill. You led the other dancers behind you, who seemed almost furious at having to follow your lead. A slight smirk appeared on his sweet lips, causing the women to gasp in surprise, but also to grow resentful that it was directed at you and not at them. He didn’t even realize he was smirking; he rarely displayed any emotions at all.