A ring of burning red flecks fluttered around the maiden. As the river rocked the boat, Mei Ying was afraid of breaking the peculiar but delicate atmosphere. She nearly held her breath, studying Jian Yu’s warm eyes that lit up like flames in the night. The silver bells around her waist pinged. The overhanging of ornate beads and flower-shaped pins in Mei Ying’s hair shimmered under the illusionary moon, with a gradient underglow of honey-gold.

Staring off into the water of floating red-and-gold lanterns, the Demon King went on:

The Ninth Flower Immortal whose true name was Mei Ying...loved wearing red.

She loved the color red so much that unlike her late mother and predecessor of the Ninth Flower Immortal position, Mei Ying changed the traditional gold color of her inherited symbol, the chrysanthemum, into red.

Moreover, she was beautiful, intelligent, bold, and...a bit mischievous.

The celestial maiden liked to sneak into the Mortal realm despite the warnings given by the other Heaven Immortals and even the gods. Being the child born between a dragon and Flower Immortal, Mei Ying was often looked down upon by those from the Heaven realm. The Mortal realm was the only place where she felt most peaceful at.

So, the Ninth Flower Immortal not only danced, she also taught herself to fight...for only the weak will bow before the strong.

However, the naive orphan did not know any of this.

The Ninth Flower Immortal was the only Heavenly blessing given to his measly, short life of suffering and misfortunes.

He watched the celestial maiden strike the air with her sword, leap, and spin around the meadow. Bursts of crimson chrysanthemums bloomed forth. When she circled the stream, water even danced and bent for her, obeying the guidance provided by her blade and small feet…

❁❁❁

A gust of wind billowed past the twirling silk hanfu dresses as eleven fair maidens spun across the boundless clear floor. Their tiny feet glided across the crisp and colorful reflections of surrounding guests in their sophisticated attires. Some of the visitors were still being escorted to their seats, down below the sweeping mirror-like steps and towering thrones from where the Heavenly Emperor, his beloved, and family members could watch the show.

In a rather ceremonious gesture, the middle-aged god rose to his feet, with his sheeny gold sleeves flapping back like majestic wings. His silver beard blew back with the temperate wind. Sparse gold floral petals flitted past the older gentleman.

In a vigorous, deep voice, the Heavenly Emperor cheered, “Happy Grand Chrysanthemum Day, everyone!”

Quickly, the several thousands upon thousands of Immortals and gods stood up. At the same time, they all cupped their hands and bowed their heads.

“Happy Grand Chrysanthemum Day, Your Highness!” They all greeted him back, beaming. “Long live the Heavenly Emperor!”

“Haha! Yes, thank you, everyone! Thank you for attending the annual Grand Chrysanthemum Festival in the Xing Kong Hall of our Pearl Lotus Palace!”

As soon as the man gestured for the festivity to continue, the drums resumed playing, with the sticks pounding against the thin but effective instruments. The Heavenly Emperor returned to his tall, marvelous throne and sat down. Slowly, he leaned back against the soft cushions. He turned his cheek, whispering into the Empress’ ear.

Another powerful wind swept through the widespread area, further ushering in the golden floral petals like a divine storm of celebration.

Concurrently, energetic sounds of plucked strings and wind instruments filled the air, casting smiles upon the many handsome and beautiful faces of spectators. A few even brought out their extravagant fans, wielding glittering jade, pearl plates, or feathers. They sat back in their seats and gazed upon the flying figures of the dainty dancers, garbed in chromatic robes and breezy sashes. All eleven maidens of various colors hopped across the center stage, tossing their elongated silk sashes in the air like flirting rainbows.

It was a flowery explosion at display, raining different vibrant tones that effortlessly harmonized one another. If anyone were to peer closer though, almost all the Flower Immortals exchanged glances at each other and looked around at the large, applauding masses.

Of course, what are they waiting for?

Rather, who...may the celestial maidens be searching for?

All the same, though, seated in the front was a pale-faced but stunning woman with sharp eyes. She was wrapped in a long, feather-weight green-and-gold robe, tended by the fans of several servants.

Despite it all, the woman massaged her temples and mutter under her breath. Her long, blossom-covered braids draped over the thin shoulders and down her back and silk slippers. It was a lovely sight to take in…

“Ah, Flower Goddess, he is finally here!” A young boy sped over to the woman, handing her a handkerchief. “He presents you with this before his arrival.”

“Please, if this person is seeking out mockery, just lay fire upon her robe.” Glowering, the goddess took the cloth anyway. “And his as well.”

“...F-Flower Goddess?”

The woman sighed. “Bring a tray of tea our way then.”

Tasked with the urgent mission, the young Immortal floated into the air and left.

For a second, the curls of bangs which covered the Flower Goddess’ forehead fluffed up. The tiny pearls and twin floral birthmarks were vivid to the eye.

“Where is she?” asked a light, calm voice. “I did not see her with the rest of them in the dance.”

The Flower Goddess shot a dirty look his way. “Prince Qing Di…”

There was a chuckle. “How many more centuries until you can just call me ‘Spring God’?”

Taking a seat next to the beautiful woman, the white-haired man shook his head of stag-like horns. The god’s fan manifested in his right hand. It was a white-and-turquoise one--decorated with mysterious, sparkling stones and tiny engraved scriptures.

“Qing Di works too. We are friends…” The Spring God narrowed his light brows. “Oh, you look very stressed. That is not good for the skin...Fang Su.”

Hearing her name, the woman almost forgot what she wanted to say. She swallowed.

“And whose fault is this?” Flower Goddess was firmly modulating her vocal tone; yet, she smiled sweetly at her senior. “First, she changes the chrysanthemum’s traditional color. Now, she’s not even here at the dance. Soon, people, especially the Heavenly Emperor, are going to start asking questions about her whereabouts!”

“Mei Ying will make her appearance, my friend.” Waving his elaborate fan, the good-looking man smiled.

Now that the Flower Goddess noticed it, the accessory perfectly matched the colors of his coordinated outfit. He took much time and care into his looks. Even his horns were decorated by white flowers.

The Spring God went on, “The Ninth Flower Immortal always delivers results that are unimaginable to us all.”

“I just hope…” Crossing her broad sleeves, the woman mumbled out, “...that she is not going to do that.”

“That?”

“That move with her sharp, dangerous sword...which was gifted by our great Spring God.”

“Oh…” Sensing the dripping sarcasm, the man managed a wider smile and moved a few white hair strands back. “And how is that a problem?”

“She’s a woman--a-and, not only that, she is a Flower Immortal! They don’t play with swords! They don’t fight in martial tournaments against men! They’re not supposed to!”

“Are you insinuating that the only thing that Flower Immortals are valued for...is to just dance and look pretty, ah?” Qing Di’s eyes widened. He gaped. “Flower Goddess, you…”

“Please, your acting is worse than dirt. You know exactly why it is especially dangerous for her to be carrying that sword around...”

Laughing, the man tossed his head back while fanning himself. The servants of his friend had scooted to the far side, trying to not get in his way. His long, snow-white hair swayed from side to the side. His gleaming, clear eyes flashed up toward the Heavenly Emperor and Empress. The god craned his neck, smiling.

There. The two princes were also here for the event.

Gold chrysanthemum petals sprinkled across the Spring God’s head. It was not only his crown of hair though, for countless other guests were enjoying what seemed to be an infinite rain of floral blades. At the same moment, the light, pleasant perfume of chrysanthemums made its way around the expansive Xing Kong Hall.

“Where is Mei Ying?” asked a stern, deep voice.

The Spring God did not need to look. Just the presence alone was enough for the dragon to identify who the speaker was. He flapped his pretty fan into the air, which blew into the person’s face.

“Hello there…” The Spring God began. At this, the other cupped his hands together in greeting. One corner of the Spring God’s lips shifted higher. His eyes gleamed over the young warrior, who stood before him, decked in his ceremonious attire. “...Bing Wen...or should I say, the new Guan Di, God of War?”

From neck to feet, the young man was adorned with dark emerald scales, his shoulders topped by large pauldrons of black jade and gold, including the matching heavy pair of boots. The back sides were decorated by sharp teeth and claws. He also wore a long, rippling red cape that displayed power and pride.

As usual, Bing Wen seemed very pensive with determined eyes. He carried large, ambitious dreams and a flaming desire to make them a reality. Despite the costs. No doubt about it.

Can’t blame the kid.

“There is no need for formalities, Spring God.”

“Your shifu taught you well, and, about a few days ago, you were handpicked for a fine position in Godhood.” Immediately, the dragon sat up straight in his chair. He returned the gesture, cupping his hands together. “This elder apologizes for not attending the ceremony. I was too far away, visiting the grave of my younger brother and his wife. It was the two-thousandth year anniversary.”

“My ceremony event is nothing compared to the pain of losing loved ones.”

“It is simply part of the past now.” The man managed a tight smile. “All I can do is watch over their precious child and protect her. Perhaps, one day, she will return to the dragon nation with me.”

“You mean...to take Mei Ying back with you?” Bing Wen curled up one hand. He quickly let it fall against his side. “That…” The young warrior remembered what he had asked about before. “Spring God, do you know where Mei Ying went?”

“So, you must care deeply about her to notice her absence.” Once the man spotted the flush in Bing Wen’s face, he laughed softly. “This one was just teasing you!” Cocking his head to the side, the Spring God thought for a moment. “...To be frank, I also do not know…”

“She went down to the Mortal realm.” answered the Flower Goddess, who remained seated next to him. She appeared surprised by saying it out loud. “Shit…”

The white-haired man gasped, “Flower Goddess, language…” Carefully, he leaned in toward the gorgeous woman. “You must not speak of such things so carelessly…”

“Everyone knows about her bad habits, Prince Qing Di.” Pushing the person’s face away, the Flower Goddess huffed out, “They are just turning a blind eye because of you. Besides, I’m her superior. You...are just…”

Just then, the chattering crowds fell silent.

The Flower Goddess stood up from her seat, followed by the Spring God who tucked his fan away. It vanished quietly.

With a panicked heart, the woman felt her palms sweat warmly. What is happening? Did the Heavenly Emperor notice...and he…?

Joining the Spring God’s side was Bing Wen as well. His eyes darted across the rows and rows of Heaven Immortals and gods. They were donned in not only their most luxurious robes, they also wore their shiniest jewelries, with some wearing several rings of enormous gems and rare enchanted charms.

At the center stage, the eleven Flower Immortals had circled a ginormous crimson chrysanthemum head that had bloomed out of nowhere. However, the faint threads of gold spiritual energy told Bing Wen otherwise...

Instantly, the millions of falling golden floral petals turned red, churning around and around the people. Even the Heavenly Emperor, his Empress, and the two princes leaned out of their high seats.

Right away, the masses started cheering and yelling, “It’s her! It’s her!”

One by one, the crimson petals of the sleeping flower peeled open for all eyes to see.

In the very middle was a young beautiful woman, dressed in all-crimson. Her eyes were closed. On her forehead was a crisp, red floral mark in the shape of a chrysanthemum. The bottom half of her bright face was covered by a matching veil too, much to some people’s disappointment. At the same time, the sight of secrecy piqued their interest.

Gradually, the guzheng instruments started playing. It was faint, one dainty string after another, before the sweet bells chimed and the low drumbeats joined. Once more, the festive music resumed, only that it was louder than ever before with the flute notes spiraling, going up and down quite wildly.

All the while, as though to illustrate the flow and excitement of the Grand Chrysanthemum Festival, the maiden began to dance without opening her eyes. She rotated on one foot, then spun around and around on two. At once, the flower head that Mei Ying appeared in faded away into a red gust of fragrance.

With wide red sleeves, the Ninth Flower Immortal emanated a lovely moon-white fan to guide the petals away from herself. Every footwork fell into a perfect place. One heel gracefully led into another like water flowing between the rocks and down over a waterfall.

“I don’t see what you are complaining about…” The Spring God whispered to the woman next to him. “What dangerous sword--”

When the music sped up, so did Mei Ying. As the eleven surrounding Flower Immortals danced around her, the young woman’s movements became more rapid. Her spins ended with a martial form, each foot transforming in high kicks, and the white fan that was once a decoration--quickly turned deadly. Subsequently, the other maidens gave her more room.

Mei Ying’s eyelids fluttered open, revealing a pair of clear, lucid autumn-honey eyes. The fan snapped closed. She tucked the fan into her broad sleeve.

The good-looking dragon became quiet. Ah, the girl had carefully planned this, even wearing red silk pants that matches her hanfu dress.

“What is she doing?!” Bing Wen hissed.

Then, metal flashed out of Mei Ying’s pale hand as her silk sash rippled toward the clear, blue skies of raining red petals. Shrouded in brilliant gold aura, the young woman was a splendid sight to behold on the stage.

Gasps were heard from the Heaven Immortals and gods. Numerous guests rose from their seats, with a few pointing at the bold celestial maiden. Their pupils contracted. No one could utter a word.

Mei Ying leapt into the air, landing rather elegantly on the reflective floor. Next, she seamlessly fell into a rhythmic martial art routine where she held the shining sword up high for all to see before diving into a new martial art form. First form--the First Seed of Autumn. Second form--the Morning Bloom. Second form--the Flower of Healing. Third form--the Will of Harmony. Fourth Form...

Then, the maiden bent one knee in the air and stood on other leg with a sword in hand. She whirled the blade around and, slowly, dipped it behind her free-flowing crimson sleeve. The weapon disappeared, and, in its place, was a single crimson chrysanthemum...

There was a wintry silence.

The guests turned to one another, speechless.

Soon, there was a gradual clap.

Surprised, the Heaven Immortals and gods raised their heads to see who was applauding the daring feat.

Sitting on the other side of the Heavenly Empress was a young, handsome man in white and gold. His long, black hair was neatly-kept, positioned over his shoulders and back. Side-bangs fell to the near bottom of his chin, framing his handsome face. At the top of his hair was a luminous gold tuinga hairpin too. A small pearl bead was placed between his fine brows.

Despite the bewildered looks, the prince continued to cheerily clap his hands.

“It’s the Heavenly Crown Prince…” murmured the Flower Goddess, craning her neck.

“Mei Ying!”

Sitting by the Heavenly Crown Prince was another young man, who wore his hair up in a high ponytail. Unlike his elder brother, he was garbed in all-silver. While the other’s features were softer, this one had sharp eyes and rough, awkward movements. He got up from his seat, unable to contain his happiness. The young man smiled from ear to ear.

“Second Prince…” Spring God paused, glancing at Bing Wen. “No, Third Prince...Jun Jie.”

“This lowly one is merely an outsider.” said the young warrior, folding his arms.

“Try as you might but…” The white-haired man picked up a cup of hot tea. He thanked the young Immortal, who went on to offer the beverages to other gods. “...you are here because you were discovered to be a Heaven Immortal, birthed by a human mother...”

“Sit back down!” From above the many guests, the Heavenly Emperor snapped at his youngest son.

Quickly, the god of gods mustered a friendly smile to the startled spectators. “Well… Haha! We are greatly honored by the Ninth Flower Immortal’s sword dance and divine flora arts. How about showing our Flower Immortals our greatest appreciation?” He clapped his hands together, laughing awkwardly.

Mimicking His Highness' action, the countless subjects all applauded for Mei Ying and the other celestial maidens.

Taking this cue, the Flower Goddess floated over many heads as the red petals continued to flutter down. No sooner did her slippers touch the floor, she stood before her disciples in the breezy green-and-gold robe. The Flower Goddess managed a pleasant smile, adjusting her blossom-covered braids.

In a breath, the Spring God too joined his friend, with grace. "It was not that bad."

“It was that bad…” murmured the smiling woman.