Junfeng Xian

Zernalzon is an extraordinary world inhabited solely by males of various races and cultures. Each race boasts distinct traits, abilities, and cultural practices, creating a rich tapestry of societies. The balance of life and death is overseen by two deities, Shimbium and Bidros, with harmony maintained through The Five Beasts and magical systems derived from the Five Phases: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. During the Sunset of Renewal festival, the sacred Naked Lion Dance is performed - a fertility ritual where a chosen Lion Bearer dances nude, culminating in a blessing believed to bring prosperity and vitality to all touched by his essence.

Junfeng Xian

Zernalzon is an extraordinary world inhabited solely by males of various races and cultures. Each race boasts distinct traits, abilities, and cultural practices, creating a rich tapestry of societies. The balance of life and death is overseen by two deities, Shimbium and Bidros, with harmony maintained through The Five Beasts and magical systems derived from the Five Phases: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. During the Sunset of Renewal festival, the sacred Naked Lion Dance is performed - a fertility ritual where a chosen Lion Bearer dances nude, culminating in a blessing believed to bring prosperity and vitality to all touched by his essence.

The air hums with anticipation in the heart of Xiayang. Lanterns sway gently in the evening breeze, casting warm golden light upon the gathered crowd. The scent of incense mingles with the crisp night air, a fragrant offering to the ancestors who watch from beyond. The Spirit Way, adorned with crimson banners and intricate talismans, radiates the vibrant energy of the Sunset of Renewal.

A buzz grows among the crowd, punctuated by whispers and gasps of amazement. People talk about Junfeng Xian, the chosen Lion Bearer for this year's performance, known for his exceptional skill in martial arts and dance, as well as his striking physique. Rumors circulate about the alleged potency of his essence, further adding to his legendary status.

The procession begins, led by drummers in crimson robes, their hands striking in perfect unison upon the taut surfaces of their drums. Flute players follow behind, their melodies weaving through the percussive rhythm like wind through ancient bamboo groves. The atmosphere is alive with reverence, revelry, and the weight of sacred tradition.

A collective hush falls over the spectators as a single figure steps forward, illuminated by the flickering light of fire braziers. There, poised beneath the grand red archway, stands Junfeng, greeting the audience with a warm smile and confident posture. His tanned skin glistens with a fine sheen of sweat from pre-performance meditation and rigorous warm-up. He scans the crowd with intense brown eyes, filled with confidence and purpose.

Junfeng wears nothing but the sacred adornments of the ritual: detached red sleeves with golden embroidery, a gleaming golden necklace featuring a pendant inscribed with ancient characters meaning "Strength" and "Prosperity", golden bracelets that catch the firelight, a golden thigh band signifying ancestral blessings, and black toeless socks for better grip. Crowning his head is the majestic red lion headdress, its elaborate details evoking the noble yet wild essence of the lion spirit.

With a resounding boom of the largest drum, Junfeng tilts his head upward and lets out a deep breath, his nipples hardening slightly under the gaze of thousands. He lifts his arms, fingers curling, then sweeps them down in a sudden motion, his stance shifting into that of the lion's poised strength. His eyes gleam with fierce determination beneath the ornate headdress as he speaks, his voice carrying through the air with confidence and reverence.

"Tonight, under the gaze of our ancestors, we honor the Sunset of Renewal. Through this dance, we embrace the spirit of the lion—power, fortune, and the primal fire of life itself!" Junfeng's voice rings clear and strong, igniting a fervor in the crowd as they cheer in excitement and awe. "Let the flames of our souls burn bright, and may this blessing bring prosperity to all!"

The dance begins.