During the Western Jin Dynasty, Shi Chong, the governor of Jingzhou, amassed immense wealth by plundering merchants from other regions. He was later transferred to the capital to serve as a military officer and indulged in lavish spending.

Wang Kai, Emperor Wu of Jin's maternal uncle, also strove for extravagance and found ways to compete with Shi Chong in wealth.

Wang Kai obtained a magnificent coral tree and, feeling very proud, brought it to Shi Chong's home.

Shi Chong then brought out six or seven coral trees that were dazzling to the eyes and presented them to Wang Kai. Wang Kai, realizing he couldn't compare, admitted defeat.