---

A long time ago, there was a place known as Nanjing Mountain, a hilly region where farming was scarce. The land was poor, and the people suffered greatly. There was widespread poverty, with many dying from hunger. The people were in distress everywhere — there was no food, no money, and no rain. Those who had a little money managed to survive, but it was only temporary. The chief of this place was cruel and selfish, caring only for his own well-being and ignoring the suffering of his people.

In the midst of this despair, a kind-hearted god took notice. Unable to bear the suffering any longer, he descended to the earth. He helped many people, providing them with food and offering prayers for rain. In just a few days, the situation began to improve. While helping others, the god wandered through the village and came across a little girl, no more than six or seven years old. She was begging for food, wearing ragged, soiled clothes. People avoided her because of her dirty appearance, and no one showed her any kindness.

Wen Shia, the god, was deeply moved by her plight. Without hesitation, he rushed to her side, extending his hand with food, sweets, and some money. The girl gratefully accepted his offering, her soft voice echoing in the air as she said, "Thank you, thank you for giving me food." She called after him, her words carrying a promise, "I will repay you for this kindness."

Wen Shia paused and turned to look at her. A small, poor child like her had made such a promise. He smiled warmly at her but said nothing, continuing on his way.

The girl ate the food with relief. She continued to live on the streets, sometimes receiving help from kind strangers. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. Over time, the situation improved dramatically. The poverty that had once plagued the people was no more, and the tyrannical king had been removed from power. The people began to help one another, shedding the selfishness of the past. There was no longer as much disparity between the rich and the poor. Those who had wealth now shared it, and the poor were no longer looked down upon.

A couple of years passed. The girl, Jiang, continued to live on the streets, earning what she could by working odd jobs. One day, while cleaning dishes at a small tea shop, a man noticed her. His heart went out to her, and he approached her with compassion.

"Little one, what is your name?" he asked kindly.

The girl smiled, though her face was covered in dirt. Her eyes, however, sparkled with a quiet beauty. "My name is Jiang," she replied softly.

The man smiled in return. "I am Li Yunzi. Tell me, Jiang, do you have a family?"

Jiang's face fell, and her voice grew sad. "I have no family. I am an orphan."

Li Yunzi's heart ached for her. "Where do you live, then?" he asked.

"I live here, on the streets," Jiang said quietly, her head bowed.

Li Yunzi, moved by her situation, looked at her with deep sympathy. "I want to adopt you," he said gently. "Would you like to become part of my family? Would you be my daughter?"

---