Tao Hua had survived through hardships with her three-times-wed mother until she turned sixteen, when Elder Wang from the same village arrived with a marriage proposal. The prospective groom was Wei Dahu. In his household resided only his lame father; there was neither an overbearing mother-in-law above nor quarrelsome siblings below. Upon entering, she would assume the role of matriarch. Two earthen huts, a few acres of meager fields, meals consisting of simple tea and plain rice, and clothing made of coarse cloth for all seasons—that was the life that awaited her. Veiled in red, Tao Hua entered the Wei family gate amidst the joyful blare of suona horns. On the Wedding Night As Wei Dahu watched Tao Hua under the flickering candlelight, his dark face flushed pink. His large, rugged hands, capable of felling beasts with a single blow, fidgeted awkwardly at the back of his head as he grinned foolishly. “Heh heh, wife.” Tao Hua gaped at the towering figure before her, utterly astonished. Despite their poverty, how could Wei Dahu be so robust and sturdy? Post-marriage, Wei Dahu took Tao Hua up the mountain to hunt, fish, pick fruits, gather chestnuts, collect mushrooms, catch bamboo rats, and dig for wild vegetables. In summertime, they hid beneath the canopy of lush forests, sipping on crisp, sweet mountain spring water. During the bitter cold of winter, they huddled inside, wrapped in thick animal pelts. By year’s end, they had amassed enough stores to ensure a prosperous and joyous year for their little family of three. With bellies full and hearts content, they bore no worries. And during agricultural lulls, they might even welcome a child. Everyone assumed Tao Hua marrying Wei Dahu meant hardship, but who knew she had actually fallen into a blessed haven? Related Stories: No related posts.