The Legend of the Blue Willow
Deep within the heart of vast China, on the banks of the Yellow River, there was a beautiful kingdom known as Nanjing. The kingdom's grandeur reflected in its magnificent palace, and the most impressive element of it was a vast willow tree with ingeniously blue-tinted leaves. This story chronicles the legend of why that particular willip tree turned blue.
Centuries ago, Emperor Ming presided over Nanjing. His splendid court was abuzz with nobles, courtiers, and his only daughter, Princess Li Mei. Princess Li Mei was infinitely charming in her own right but was known for her compassionate heart and wisdom that extended beyond her years.
The emperor's trusted aide, Chang, was a loyal and sharp-minded person. His son, Kwan Yin, grew up alongside the princess, with their relationship progress from close friends to lovers as they matured.
As fate would have it, an ambitious general Lan Ling was mesmerized by the tales of Princess Li Mei’s beauty. He sought Emperor Ming for her hand. Sensing power and alliance in the proposal, the Emperor readily agreed, much to Princess Li Mei's dismay.
Word of the union reached Kwan Yin, and he was devastated. Nonetheless, he decided to approach Emperor Ming to challenge the decision. But, knowing the severity of the consequences, Chang stalled his son. Unable to bear the thought of Li Mei in the arms of another, Kwan Yin decided to escape with her.
One cold winter night, under the silver glow of the crescent moon, he met Princess Li Mei beneath the willow tree, the essence of their innocent love. He unveiled his escape plan, warily, only to be met with Li Mei's bright, teary eyes filled with hope and fear.
They embarked on their journey with nothing but their love. The news of their escape rattled the Imperial city the following day. Enraged by the audacity, General Lan Ling commanded his soldiers to hunt them.
On a secluded island beyond the Yellow River, Kwan Yin and Li Mei found solace in a quaint fisherman's hut. Days turned into weeks as they reveled in simple joys, their love blossoming like the spring orchids. However, their happiness was short-lived when General Lan Ling's soldiers discovered their hideout.
A vengeful battle ensued, and the couple was cornered. They were outnumbered, but Kwan Yin fought valiantly, protecting Li Mei until his last breath. Li Mei, seeing her lover fall, took hold of Kwan Yin's sword and took her own life to join him in death.
The gods, moved by their tale of undying love, decided to immortalize the lovers. The bodies of Kwan Yin and Li Mei were embraced by a strong gust of wind and transformed into two beautiful doves, soaring into the sky, free at last. The vibrant scene caught the attention of the onlookers on bank, including the weeping Emperor Ming, who deeply regretted his decision.
When he returned to the imperial city, the Emperor ordered to plant hundreds of willow trees around the palace in the memory of their love. Miraculously, every tree that was planted turned blue. Their blue leaves a constant reminder of the loyal love between Princess Li Mei and Kwan Yin.
And that's the legend of the blue willows - a symbol of undying love, sacrifice and courage. A story narrated and celebrated in the kingdom of Nanjing, passing down from one generation to another.