Huang Wei's eyes fluttered open, greeted by a blur of colors and gentle whispers. He lay in a traditional wooden bed, surrounded by intricately carved panels and vibrant silk curtains. The air was thick with incense, medicinal herbs, and the faint scent of sandalwood.
Outside, the sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves filled the air, accompanied by the distant clang of hammering on metal and murmured chants.
"Ahh, little one's awake!" Lin Mei exclaimed, cradling him in her arms.
Li Qiang beamed with pride, his worn robes and calloused hands a testament to a life of hard work. "Our Wei has finally arrived! Look, Mei, he's already opening his eyes."
Huang Wei's gaze drifted between the two faces above him.
Who are these people?
(In his mind) What's going on? Where am I? This isn't right. Memories of his past life swirled: late-night gaming sessions, weekend hangouts with friends, and the familiar glow of his computer screen.
But the memories of his last moments were fragmented: walking home from work, the sound of screeching tires, and... nothing.
"Look, Wei, Daddy's here!" Li Qiang chimed in, his voice full of excitement.
Huang Wei's tiny hands flailed, and he let out a confused wail.
Lin Mei soothed him, "Shh, little one, don't cry. Mother's here."
(In his mind) How did I get here? This place feels... different. The air, the sounds, the people...
Li Qiang asked, "Mei, did you prepare the ceremonial broth?"
Lin Mei nodded. "Yes, dear. I'll feed him now."
As Lin Mei lifted a ceramic bowl to his lips, Huang Wei turned his head away, overwhelmed.
(In his mind) My life was normal, routine. What happened? Why am I... here?
Outside, the sound of chanting grew louder, mingling with the scent of incense. People passed by the window, their movements fluid and deliberate, as if harmonizing with nature.
Lin Mei cooed, "Drink this, Wei. It'll help you grow strong."
The warm liquid touched his lips, and Huang Wei instinctively sucked, tasting the bitter, earthy flavor.
Li Qiang chuckled. "He's got a strong appetite, just like his father!"
Lin Mei smiled. "And his eyes, so bright and curious."
Huang Wei's thoughts swirled, a jumbled mix of fear, confusion, and disorientation.
(In his mind) What happened to my life? How did I end up here, in this... ancient place?
As the broth took effect, Huang Wei's eyelids drooped, weighed down by exhaustion.
Lin Mei whispered, "Sleep tight, little one. Mother and Father are here."
As he drifted off, Huang Wei's mind whispered one final thought:
(In his mind) I need to understand.
Huang Wei's eyes snapped open, and he found himself floating in mid-air. A warm, golden light enveloped him, and he felt an unusual energy coursing through his tiny body.
An elderly man, his face etched with excitement, gazed at Huang Wei with tears in his eyes.
"By the heavens, it's true! My grandson has the Blooming Jade talent!"
The old man's eyes sparkled as he held an arcane prism, its facets glowing with intricate patterns. The prism pulsed with a soft, jade-colored light.
"Congratulations, Elder Li!" a middle-aged man exclaimed, bowing respectfully.
Another elder, clad in traditional robes, nodded in agreement. "This is a blessing from the heavens. The Li family's future is secured with such a talented young one."
Elder Li's face beamed with pride. "Wei's mother, Lin Mei, has done an excellent job nurturing his constitution. And now, with this Blooming Jade talent, the possibilities are endless!"
Huang Wei's thoughts swirled, struggling to comprehend the situation.
(In his mind) What's happening? Why am I floating? What's this Blooming Jade talent? Who are these people?
As the elderly man continued to examine the arcane prism, Huang Wei noticed his father, Li Qiang, standing nearby.
Huang Wei's gaze drifted to Li Qiang, his face unfamiliar and confusing.
(In his mind) Who is this person? Why do they seem to know me?
Elder Li nodded. "With proper cultivation, Wei will become a valuable asset to our family. We must ensure his development is handled carefully."
The group began discussing Huang Wei's future, their words filled with anticipation and excitement.
Huang Wei's mind reeled, overwhelmed by the sudden attention and the mysteries surrounding his rebirth.
(In his mind) What's going on? Where am I? What have I gotten myself into?