The Ultimate Prodigal Son

by The Beacon Fire Trick

I do not seek to defeat all masters and be lonely at the top, nor do I seek power over the court and standing above thousands. I only desire a gentle companion by my side, graceful dancers before my bed, and all the beauties of the world in my grasp. With a life like this, what more could I ask for? Those who act first will have wives and concubines in abundance; those who hesitate will end up alone. My greatest joy is to have all the flowers willingly planted on this heap of dung that I am! Romantic yet not vulgar—that is the tenet of this book. I am merciful by nature, yet I slaughter the living; I am fickle by nature, yet I charm countless beauties; I am foolish by nature, yet I play with the world; I am moral by nature, yet I dance with evil; I am humble by nature, yet I rule the world!