Chang'e's Journey to the Moon
Long ago, in the ancient land of China, there lived a hero named Hou Yi. He was known far and wide for his bravery and strength. One day, the ten suns that warmed the earth decided to shine all at once, causing great suffering to the people. The crops withered, the rivers dried up, and life on earth was in peril.
Hou Yi, moved by the plight of the people, climbed the highest mountain and shot down nine of the suns with his mighty bow and arrows. The remaining sun was spared to continue its daily journey across the sky, bringing warmth and light to the world. In gratitude for his heroic act, the Queen of Heaven gave Hou Yi an elixir of immortality as a reward.
Hou Yi cherished this gift but did not wish to drink it alone. He planned to share it with his beloved wife, Chang'e. However, one night, while Hou Yi was away hunting, a thief broke into their home, seeking the elixir. Fearing for the safety of the elixir, Chang'e drank it all in one swift motion. Instantly, she felt herself growing lighter and floated out of the window, ascending towards the heavens.
Chang'e chose the moon as her eternal home, where she could look over the earth and her husband. From that day on, the full moon became a symbol of longing and reunion. Every Mid-Autumn Festival, people gather under the bright moonlight, sharing stories of love and family, remembering the tale of Chang'e and her journey to the moon.