Dawn broke over Green Willow Village, casting a soft glow on the modest abode where Zhang Liwei, now a young man of eighteen, stirred from his slumber. The air was filled with a quiet excitement, a stark contrast to the usual tranquility that graced his mornings. Today was not just another day; it was the day his beloved sister, Zhang Ning, would be wed, a momentous occasion in both their lives.
As Liwei lay in bed, his thoughts wandered to the path he had walked these past three years. His dedication to cultivation had not waned; instead, it had deepened, bringing him tantalizingly close to mastering the Silent Mountain Doctrine. This intricate tapestry of Qi Cultivation, Fist Martial Art, Movement Technique, and Body Tempering had become his life's pursuit. Yet, he knew his journey was far from complete. To grow further, he needed access to more advanced manuals and experiences in the broader cultivation world. It was a path that beckoned him with the promise of undiscovered mysteries and challenges.
Despite his rigorous cultivation routine, Liwei never lost sight of his responsibilities. He would periodically venture into the wilderness, harvesting precious herbs and mining rare ores, treasures sought after by many. These expeditions were not just for his cultivation; they were a means to an end, a way to ensure the well-being of his family. Whenever Uncle Zhou, the shrewd and worldly trader, visited their village, Liwei would exchange his hard-earned treasures for taels of gold and precious products. Part of these earnings had been meticulously set aside for a very special purpose—his sister's dowry.
In their world, the dowry was more than just tradition; it was a symbol of good fortune and prosperity for the newlyweds. Liwei, with the heart of a devoted brother, had spared no effort in assembling a handsome dowry for Zhang Ning. It was his heartfelt wish to see his sister bask in happiness and well-being.
The silver and gold Liwei had earned were judiciously divided between his parents and the dowry. On occasion, they would request Uncle Zhou to bring specific items for the dowry, ensuring that it would be a collection worthy of admiration. As Liwei reflected on these arrangements, he acknowledged the inevitable—his time to venture beyond the village was drawing near. His three years of toil had borne fruit, securing his family's livelihood in his absence. This peace of mind was crucial; he could embark on his cultivation journey, knowing that his family would thrive.
With a light heart and a smile playing on his lips, Liwei rose and dressed in azure blue silk robes, specially prepared for this momentous day. The fabric flowed over his well-toned body, a testament to years of rigorous cultivation, accentuating his stature as a cultivator. Stepping out of his room, he made his way to see his sister, Zhang Ning.
Now sixteen, Zhang Ning had blossomed into a radiant beauty, her charm recognized far and wide. As Liwei entered the room, he found her surrounded by a handful of village women, their skilled hands and warm chatter adding the final touches to her appearance. They adorned her with delicate accessories, each piece chosen to enhance her natural elegance.
Zhang Ning's beauty and her status as the sister of a skilled cultivator had made her a highly sought-after match in the surrounding areas. The past three years had been a time of careful selection for her groom. Zhang Liwei's father, mother, and sister had all weighed in on this significant decision, with Zhang Ning's opinion rightly given the most weight. Even Liwei, in his occasional returns home, lent his insights, ensuring that the man chosen would be worthy of accompanying his sister through life's journey.
As Liwei's gaze fell upon his sister, a sense of pride and brotherly affection filled his heart. Today marked not only a new beginning for Zhang Ning but also a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time.
Zhang Liwei's thoughts drifted towards the groom-to-be, Gao Yuan. Though Gao Yuan was currently engaged in his own pre-wedding preparations somewhere outside, Liwei's mind conjured a vivid picture of the young man who had graced their residence on a sunlit morning not long past.
He had arrived bearing the customary betrothal gifts, a display of his family's wealth and respect for the Zhang clan. The rich silks, gleaming jewelry, and carefully packed chests of exotic spices had been met with warm acceptance by their family, a silent promise of prosperity and good fortune for the impending union.
He recalled Gao Yuan's humble demeanor and the earnest look in his clear, honest eyes, features that spoke volumes of his character. Gao Yuan, a youth of seventeen from Misty Brook Village, a place four days' travel away on foot for the commoner, carried himself with a quiet grace.
His broad shoulders and steady gaze suggested a life of earnest labor and integrity. Liwei remembered the sense of assurance he had felt upon meeting Gao Yuan; he was exactly the sort of man who could bring happiness and stability to his sister's life.
Gao Yuan hailed from a village not unlike Green Willow, a serene haven nestled amidst rolling hills and misty mornings. His parents were kindhearted and caring, known for their warmth and hospitality. They had two younger daughters and an older son, and it was clear to all who knew them that they would welcome Zhang Ning as their own.
As Liwei reflected on these qualities, his heart swelled with a sense of relief. He had seen in Gao Yuan not just a suitor, but a man of substance and virtue, someone who would stand beside Zhang Ning as an equal and loving partner.
Today, an auspicious day for marriage, had been meticulously chosen half a year in advance. Both families, along with their relatives and friends, had been preparing for this special day with great enthusiasm. Gao Yuan's family, along with their relatives and friends, had arrived in Green Willow Village a few days prior, lending their hands in the preparations. The air was thick with the scent of delicious food being cooked, and the village square was abuzz with activity as they readied for the grand feast to celebrate the union of the young couple.
Approaching his sister, Zhang Liwei couldn't help but admire her radiant beauty. “You look truly beautiful, Ning,” he said softly, his voice tinged with pride. “You’ll be a wonderful wife and mother.”
Zhang Ning's eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she looked at her brother. “I’m so lucky to have a brother like you. You’ve always taken such good care of me,” she said, her voice soft but filled with emotion. "I'm going to miss you and Mother and Father so much after I'm married," she added, her voice catching slightly.
Liwei nodded in understanding, his heart heavy with the knowledge that he too would soon leave the village and his family behind.
Zhang Liwei stood silently, a memory floating unbidden to his mind, a conversation he had shared with Zhang Ning not so long ago.
"Ning, tell me about this Gao Yuan," Liwei had asked casually one afternoon, as they sat under the ancient willow tree of their childhood.
Zhang Ning's face had lit up, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. "Oh, Brother," she began, her voice tinged with a dreamy quality, "Gao Yuan is... he's wonderful. The first time we met, it felt like... like we've known each other forever."
Liwei had watched his sister then, noting the way her eyes sparkled when she spoke of Gao Yuan. It was more than just admiration; it was the unmistakable glow of someone who had found a deep connection. The affection in her voice, the way she shyly tucked a strand of hair behind her ear as she spoke, all pointed to one undeniable truth—Zhang Ning had truly fallen for Gao Yuan.
Seeing this, Liwei felt a wave of relief wash over him. He had always been protective of his sister, but in that moment, he knew there was little to worry about. The respect and affection between Zhang Ning and Gao Yuan were clear as day. Liwei's heart had lightened then, comforted by the thought that his sister had found someone who genuinely cherished her.
After a moment, realizing that Zhang Ning would need more time to finish her preparations, Liwei decided to step outside. He wanted to ensure that everything in the communal square was set for the celebration. It was important to him that his sister's wedding day be perfect. He needed to check on the decorations, the feast, and the overall readiness of the venue to receive the guests.
As Liwei walked towards the square, his mind was a whirlwind of emotions—pride for his sister, nostalgia for the life he was about to leave behind, and anticipation for the journey ahead. Today, he was a brother, ensuring his sister's happiness; tomorrow, he would be a cultivator, stepping into the vast, unknown world of cultivation. But for now, he focused on the present, determined to make this day a memorable one for Zhang Ning and their family.
If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.
"Bring that table over here!" barked a man, gesturing towards a corner.
"Where do I put this wine?" asked a flustered woman, her arms laden with bottles.
Zhang Liwei stepped into the bustling village square, where the preparations for his sister's wedding were in full swing. In Green Willow Village, weddings were celebrated in the communal square, a tradition that brought the whole village together in joy and festivity. The sight of the nearly completed arrangements brought a bittersweet memory to Liwei's mind—the wedding of Li Hua, his childhood friend, which had taken place just last year.
Li Hua had married a man from another village, and on her wedding day, Liwei had prepared a thoughtful gift. He remembered selecting a few pieces of fine jewelry, a lucky charm made from rare crystals from his cultivation chamber, luxurious rolls of silk, and a tael of gold to congratulate her.
The memory was vivid; he approached Li Hua, his heart heavy with unspoken emotions, and presented his gifts. Li Hua had accepted them with a mix of surprise and gratitude, her eyes shining with unshed tears. The gifts were perhaps extravagant for a mere friend, but they were underlined by the guilt Liwei felt for having turned down her affections, even as he wished her the best in her new life.
His reverie was broken by the sight of his parents, dressed in their finest silk outfits, busily organizing the wedding. They were making sure everything was perfect—the chairs and tables arranged neatly, the feast foods and drinks copiously laid out on each table, and the musicians guided to their designated places. Their dedication to their daughter's happiness was evident in every meticulous detail they oversaw.
As Liwei lent his hands to the preparations, the groom's family and friends arrived at the square. Gao Yuan, the groom, was at the center, surrounded by his parents and family, donned in red to match Zhang Ning's bridal robe. His smile was infectious, radiating happiness and anticipation. The people from Misty Brook Village mingled with the Green Willow villagers, their laughter and chatter blending harmoniously, as full-bodied and rich as the wine they shared.
Gao Yuan and his parents, Gao Mu and He Yan, approached Zhang Liwei and his parents with humble smiles.
"Uncle Zhang, Aunt Liu, your daughter is a true treasure. We couldn't be happier to welcome her into our family."
"Brother Gao, Sister He," Zhang Jian replied, his voice thick with emotion, "you honor us with your kind words. Ningning has always been our little darling, full of light and laughter. Seeing her find happiness with your son brings us nothing but joy.
Gao Mu, a man of medium stature with a kind face, wore a silk garment that spoke of modest elegance. Beside him, He Yan, gentle and graceful, her attire complementing her husband's, mirrored the warmth in her husband’s eyes. Liwei observed the humble and kind demeanor of Gao Mu and He Yan, feeling a deep sense of gratitude that his sister would be joining such a family.
Soon, both families found their seats, waiting for the commencement of the ceremony. The decision to hold the ceremony in the morning was deliberate, symbolizing a new beginning for the young couple.
The air in Green Willow Village was thick with anticipation, electric with the excitement of the wedding. Musicians, their fingers deftly dancing over the strings of qin and pipa, filled the air with melodious tunes that mingled with the chirping of sparrows and the gentle rustling of ancient willow trees. It was a symphony of nature and tradition, setting a backdrop of serene beauty for the auspicious occasion.
As Zhang Liwei sat amidst the gathering, a hush fell over the crowd. All eyes turned towards the house, from where Zhang Ning emerged, a vision in her phoenix-red bridal robes, intricately embroidered with motifs of silver clouds.
Her face, usually alight with playful mischief, was now serene, her eyes glistening with the luminous sheen of morning dew. Liwei stood up, his heart swelling with a mix of happiness and melancholy. He watched, captivated, as his sister walked with grace, her steps leaving a soft whisper of silk against the cobblestone path.
The wedding ceremony was a vibrant tapestry of tradition and emotion. Vows were exchanged under the watchful eyes of family and friends, sealing the union of Zhang Ning and Gao Yuan with the sanctity of age-old rituals.
Gao Mu, the groom's father, his eyes twinkling with satisfaction and goodwill, poured the first cup of wine. Raising it high, he offered a toast, his voice booming with joy: "They say marriage is like a fine wine—it gets better with age. But I suspect, with your boundless love and spirits to match, your cup will forever overflow with delicious bubbles of happiness. Cheers to a love that ferments even sweeter with every passing year!"
The feast that followed was a testament to the unity and camaraderie of the village. Villagers from both Green Willow and Misty Brook danced together, their steps heavy with wine and mirth. Liwei, usually a picture of reserve and discipline, found himself swept up in the joy of the occasion, indulging in the wine and the festive mood. It was a moment of pure celebration, a time to cherish the joyous union of two young hearts.
As the sun dipped below the mountain, casting long, tranquil shadows over the village, the festivities settled into a contented buzz. Gao Yuan, with Zhang Ning at his side, walked through the courtyard, their faces alight with happiness as they greeted guests and relished the warmth of the celebration.
In that moment, as Liwei observed the newlyweds, he felt a pang of loss, a bittersweet ache for the sister who had once been more adept at scaling trees than adorning herself in fine robes. Yet, this feeling was quickly replaced by a surge of pride and joy. Zhang Ning, his little firecracker of a sister, had found her own hearth, a place where her laughter and spirit would forever echo, a place where she would build a life filled with love and happiness.
As the stars began to pepper the night sky, the celebration drew to a close. The guests from Misty Brook Village, without an inn to accommodate them, were welcomed into the homes of Green Willow villagers, a gesture of hospitality and camaraderie. They would spend the night in the village, sharing stories and laughter, before setting forth at daybreak.
And as Zhang Liwei retired to his home, his heart was full. He had witnessed the beginning of his sister's new journey and had been a part of a celebration that exemplified the warmth and unity of his village. Soon, he would face his own new beginning, stepping out into the vast world of cultivation, carrying with him the memories and lessons of Green Willow Village.
As dawn broke over Green Willow Village, the first rays of sunlight ushered in a morning of bittersweet farewells. The people from Misty Brook were preparing to depart, taking with them an extra member—Zhang Ning, the new bride, a cherished daughter of Green Willow.
At the village gate, the Zhang family stood, their hearts heavy yet filled with love. They waved their goodbyes to the people from Misty Brook and to Zhang Ning, whom the village had raised with affection and concern. The villagers, who had watched her grow from a spirited child into a radiant bride, now bid her farewell, their eyes shining with unspoken emotions.
Zhang Liwei, along with his parents, held Zhang Ning in a final, tender embrace. “Take care, and remember, our home is always here for you,” they whispered, their voices thick with emotion. Zhang Ning, her eyes glistening with tears, wished good health to her family and the villagers. Turning to Liwei, she expressed her longing for his visits, "I'll wait for you, Brother. Whenever you have the time, come see me." Liwei, his throat tight with emotion, promised her, "I'll visit you from time to time."
As the time for departure neared, the Zhang family approached the Gao family, their expressions a blend of trust and emotion. Zhang Jian, his voice steady but laden with the weight of a father's concern, addressed the Gaos.
"We entrust our precious daughter, Zhang Ning, to your care," he said, looking directly into the eyes of Gao Yuan's parents. "She is the light of our home, and we hope she will shine just as brightly in yours."
Gao Mu, Gao Yuan's father, stepped forward, his face reflecting both understanding and sincerity. "We are honored by your trust," he began, his voice warm and reassuring. "I assure you, Zhang Ning will be treasured in our family as one of our own. We will provide her with all the love and care she deserves."
He Yan, Gao Yuan's mother, nodded in agreement, her eyes gentle. "Zhang Ning will be entering our family not just as a bride, but as a daughter we never had. You have our word; she will be cherished and respected as she is in your home."
Liu Mei, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, added softly, "Please take good care of her. She means the world to us."
With these words, a bond of trust and understanding was solidified between the two families, their promises a testament to the love and respect they held for Zhang Ning and her new life ahead.
As the crimson palanquin, carrying the newlyweds, began its journey away from Green Willow Village, Liwei stood by the gate, his gaze lingering on the departing procession. The morning light caught on the palanquin, making it glimmer like diamond dust on midnight velvet. He waved goodbye, feeling a sweet ache in his heart, a testament to a love that transcended family, village, and even time itself.
The day of Zhang Ning's wedding, bathed in the golden light of dawn and the silver glow of twilight, was a moment forever etched in Liwei's memory. It was a day where loss and joy intertwined, painting a masterpiece of sisterly love on the canvas of his heart. As he watched the palanquin disappear into the distance, he felt a profound sense of completion and a newfound resolve.
Liwei whispered to himself, his voice a soft echo in the morning air, "Now, it's my turn." Just as Zhang Ning had embarked on her own journey of love and companionship, it was time for him to step into his own path—a path of cultivation and discovery. With his sister's wedding marking an end to one chapter of his life, Liwei knew it was time to begin another, to explore the vast, mysterious world of cultivation that awaited him.
With a deep breath, he turned away from the village gate, his heart filled with determination and hope. The journey that lay ahead was unknown, but he was ready to embrace it with the strength and wisdom he had gained in Green Willow Village. The adventure of Zhang Liwei, the cultivator, was about to begin.