The light drizzles shrouded the valley with mist. The moon had become brighter and clear after the rain, creating a glorious and clean environment.
The valley is a breathtaking sight, blanketed in soft pink and white hues as peach blossoms burst into bloom. Delicate petals dance in the gentle breeze, creating a whimsical atmosphere. The air is fragrant with their sweet scent, mingling with the earthy aroma of spring. Moonlight filters through the blossoms, casting dappled shadows on the lush green grass below. Rolling hills frame the valley, and a serene river winds its way through, reflecting the vibrant colors of the blossoms. The scene is tranquil, inviting quiet contemplation and a deep appreciation for nature's beauty.
On the trunk of one of the plum blossom tree, there was a man lying on it. His white bottom length hair swayed slightly. His pencil - thin eyebrows looked down gently, as he downed a gulp of wine.
He held the wine jar in his slender but strong hand , and savoured the taste of the wine. His look was intoxicating. With eyes as bright and spellbinding as lode stars, they bewitched all those who fell under his steady gaze. They were a sparkle with mirth and shone like two eternity scarlet jewels enwrought in snow.
The aquiline nose he sported complemented his prominent cheek bones. Handsome and pretty in an understated way.
Moonlight shone warmly on his face, making him squint his eyes at its brightness. He looked around dazedly,and saw the blurry image of something in the sky. As the image descended slowly, its origin was clear. It was a winged white tiger.
The winged white tiger is a stunning and mythical creature, embodying the elegance of a tiger with the surreal grace of avian features. Its fur is a striking snowy white, adorned with bold black stripes that contrast sharply against its pristine coat. The tiger's eyes shimmer in shades of golden amber, radiating intelligence and ferocity.
From its powerful shoulders extend majestic wings, resembling those of an enormous bird of prey. These wings are feathered and expansive, with a subtle sheen that catches the light, allowing the tiger to soar gracefully through the skies. Each wing-beat is powerful yet fluid, enhancing its predatory prowess.
The combination of feline agility and avian flight gives this creature an unparalleled presence, making it both a fearsome hunter and a breathtaking sight. Its aura exudes mystery and majesty, embodying a blend of strength and ethereal beauty.
Immediately this majestic beast descended, it bent one of his forelimbs and bowed his head to the man. " Master."
A soft child like voice resounded in the silent valley .
" Umm... " The man replied as he downed another gulp of wine.
" He ... hmmm... He died. He self destructed, just as you anticipated. " The tiger said, and raised its head.
" You don't understand why, right? And how did I know this was going to happen?" The man asked, looking at the tiger gently, with a smile.
" I could never fanthom your deeper thoughts. "
The tiger sat on the ground, and looked up at the man , curious . " He was powerful. No.., they both were. I don't think I would be a match for either of them. But after seeing what occurred, I became enlightened. Even the most powerful can't control fate. "
" Fate? Huh... " The man chuckled and leaned forward, looking at the tiger deeply.
The tiger nodded and replied, " Yes. People do say that there is no such thing as coincidence. Things occur because it was by fate or because it was meant to be. "
" Really...? " The man squinted his eyes and asked, looking at the tiger with a mischievous smile.
"Yes. I read it. " The tiger answered.
" Ohh... If I remember correctly, I never taught you that. Did you...? "
The tiger averted it's gaze, looking elsewhere, pouting he said, " I just wanted to learn the ways of humans, since I... "
The man leaned back and folded his arm , with a warm smile he interrupted, " I understand. That way of thinking is disastrous. Such ideals have led people to take paths that prove to be damaging to them, or paths that devour them. As of the incident that happened today. "
" Amusing that some people blame their faults and miseries on fate. Rather the choices we make lead us to the path we take . What we come across in the journey that is life is dependent and influenced by our decisions. If there is such a thing as fate, one created his own fate. "
The tiger eyes lit up and looked at the man , " Ohh... But, why would he self destruct? He could have just poisoned him , and that would have been the end."
The man raised his eyebrows, and chuckled, " Oh! You naive little boy! Poison? It seems you don't know how to read people. What am I saying? "
The man sighed and ,stroked his hair , looking down at the tiger squatting.
" I don't interact with people, master." The tiger corrected.
The man smiled and replied, " I know. That's why I asked myself that question. "
" Han Quan and Xiao Feng.... They aren't normal people. Their uprightness is alarming. "
The tiger nodded, " But why would he self destruct? There are many other ways to kill him, although he won't be in a better state."
" Yes. Why ? ." The tiger looked at him anticipating his reply. But he just smiled.
For a minute , it was like he wouldn't reply. The tiger was about to open his mouth when ,
" I don't know. "
" Master....! "The tiger screamed out, which had a roar mixed in. It was supposed to sound ferocious, but the child like voice made it sound cute.
Seeing his puffed up face, the man decided to stop teasing him.
" I do know many reasons. It could be one of them. "
" What reasons? " The tiger asked.
The man jumped down from the tree, and walked forward. The tiger quickly stood up and trailed behind.
" Han Quan used forbidden technique that drained his life force, resulting in immense power at a great personal cost. This lead to his demise. The reasons are ... First , he might have chosen to take on a lethal challenge to face a powerful enemy alone, knowing it could lead to his death, to protect his loved ones or to uphold his principles.
Second, he may have succumbed to his inner demons or the weight of his past, leading him to make destructive choices that alienate him from allies and ultimately led to his downfall.
Third, he might be atoning for past mistakes, seeking redemption through sacrifice, even if it means his own end."
" Ohh.. The first reason is void, because he doesn't live for anyone, but himself. The second and third.... " The tiger said.
The man sighed and downed another gulp of wine. " That's not what we should worry about. It was his own choice. "
" But master that might not have happened if you... " The tiger whined.
The man immediately cut in. " Interfering with the choices of humans is detrimental. I am not in the mood. Moreover, he declined. "
The tiger sighed and rubbed its head with its front paw, looking tired.
Suddenly the space in front of them had cracks, like a cracked mirror. " Aghh... The space is opening. It is time to leave. "