Post by Lanie on Jun 6, 2005 18:13:42 GMT -5
Chapter 1
Kiu Wai’s Narration:
Maybe Mei Ling and I are destined to be at the intersection of the road, where we always pass by each other. Maybe it’s meant for us to meet, but not meant for us to be together. In both of our lives, our fates intertwined many years ago………..
Far away from a big town is where my homeland is, Tham Village. I am the leader of my village. We’re proud of our hard work on the rice fields. Though we’re not rich, but we are very rich in laughters and happiness.
I am at the age where I should get married and have kids. This is also my mother’s highest wish. I have asked the matchmaker from a nearby town, Miss Lan, to find me a nice girl from a good family. Couple days later, she excitedly comes to me and informs that she had found me a perfect match, Miss Yung Mei Ling. I have never seen her before, but I trust Miss Lin’s judgement in selecting this bride for me.
In a nearby village couple hours from Kiu Wai’s:
Mei Ling is holding the children’s hands in a big circle as they all are singing songs. Miss Lin comes up to Mei Ling and signals to her that she wants to have a talk. Mei Ling follows Miss Lin outside of the school to discuss about her potential candidate.
Miss Lin: Mei Ling, I just found you a nice rich man. This is his proposal to you.
Miss Lin hands Mei Ling a big red letter.
Mei Ling: Miss Lin, I told you many times that I don’t want to get married yet.
Miss Lin: You are getting old. How long do you want to wait for? Until you’re an old maid then no one will look at you?
Mei Ling: I have a lot of plans for myself. I want to go school in a big city to get a real certificate in teachings.
Miss Lin: You are fine with teaching these kids here. You don’t need to go anywhere far to get a degree. Please think over this proposal. The guy is very wealthy and he comes from a very good family. He will take good care of you. Trust me on this.
Mei Ling: Alright, let me think about it.
Miss Lin: I consider that a yes. I will come back in a few days.
Later that day, Mei Ling opens up the letter. She wants to justify to herself why she doesn’t want to marry him. She lies down on her bed and reads the letter.
Kiu Wai’s Letter to Mei Ling:
Miss Yung, I don’t know too many words. I don’t write beautiful either, so please forgive me. I am a very simple hard-working person. I know that Miss Lin had told you that I have a lot of money and come from a good family, but I want you to know that although I am the leader of the Tham village, I don’t have anything. Though this year our village makes a little profit and I can afford to get married, but I cannot guarantee next year. You don’t have to answer me right away. Think over carefully.
The back of the letter is a simple drawing of his village. Mei Ling looks over the letter and smiles to herself. Though the letter is written with a very simple style, but she can sense his sincerity. She immediately wakes her brother up early in the morning to walk to the Tham village. Mei Ling wants to meet Kiu Wai in person before she decides if she can accept his proposal or not.
During that night before Mei Ling arrives at Kiu Wai’s village, an unfortunate event took place that disheartened him and his villagers. A fire accidentally broke out on the rice fields. In a short amount of time, the entire fields were swept to the ground. Everyone exhaustedly tried to save what they could, but the fire was spreading too fast.
As Mei Ling approaches the fields, the villagers’ cries are heard everywhere for they know they will face a difficult time ahead. A few men ask who she is because they can see she is a stranger. Mei Ling tells them that she is here to see Kiu Wai and to talk to him about his proposal. A little boy in the village runs to Kiu Wai’s house to infom him that Mei Ling is here to see him but he tells the boy to let Mei Ling know that he cannot marry her. The little boy runs back to Mei Ling and relays the message. Other men then explain to Mei Ling that because of this tragedy, Kiu Wai cannot afford to marry her and it’s unfair to her if she were to be married to a poor man. Mei Ling is a little disappointed as she leaves.
Kiu Wai then realizes that he should explain to her himself and apologize to her for declining the proposal. He runs after her into the woods but he can’t find her. Little does he know that she and her brother sit at a bush below a mount that he stands on top. Mei Ling and her brother rest there for a little bit. Kiu Wai, still stands on top and look down into the fields with full of sadness and disappointment that he just missed her. After a while, he goes back home. By the time Mei Ling stands up and walked on top of this mount and looking over the fields, Kiu Wai is already gone.
Mei Ling’s Narration to the story:
In people’s lives, sometimes they missed each other just by one step. Because of that one misstep, suddenly I walk on the road of an unknown destiny. The more I walk, the further away I get from my original path. I remember once someone told me: Time can play trick on people. Those who are destined to meet can suddenly become strangers.
Actually, I don’t believe in the fate of love. I only believe that there is perfect half of myself who is out there. The question is can I find that person? Time is very strange. The further Kiu Wai and I walk on our own paths, the further we are away from one another. As we’re standing in different corners of our lives, the further we walk, the closer our hearts are to each other’s.
Half a day of walking distance from the Tham Village is a province called Luk Hip Province. Luk Hip Province is a well known place because this is where the Ton Family is developed, and continues to prosper. The Ton Family is known for its business from rice to oil. The Ton Family is also an intersection of life for myself and Kiu Wai……………….
Chapter 2
The Ton Family is hustling and bustling preparing for a birthday celebration for the Mr.Ton, the head of the Ton Family. There are men running around hanging up the red laterns and others hanging up red silk ribbons around the courtyard and inside the main room. Crowded in the kitchen are servants busy preparing many exotic dishes. Any special occasion in the Ton Family is a call for big show-down celebrations.
Ton Mei Chun, the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs.Ton, is getting ready to come outside to wish her father his 60th birthday. She dresses in a long silk skirt down to her ankle that allows her to walk with such grace as she makes her way out. Her silk top is made with such a fine material that only the richest can wear. Truly, Mei Chun is a rare beauty in this province. Because of this beauty, she puts herself on top of others and often looks down to most men who approach her for a marriage proposal. Her rudeness and condescending attitude are mixed were her bitterness toward love.
Not too long before her father’s birthday, she was broken hearted by her first love. He was a servant in her family. Their love was discovered by her mother right before they could run away with each other. Her mother cut off their relationship by giving the servant a large amount of money and asked him to leave. Mei Chun was stunned that her lover actually chose the money over her. The rumors quickly spread over the town that she is no longer a proper and pure girl. These rumors disappointed and worried her mother as each day goes by.
Back to the party at the Ton’s mansion, Kiu Wai and his younger brother, Chiu Wai, are looking for Mrs.Ton to explain to her about their fire tragedy. They are not able to deliver the harvested rice as written in the contract. However, they are having a hard time looking for her because of the excitement in the mansion. While looking for Mrs.Ton, they are distracted by the activities going on. Because this is their first time witnessing such a grand and festive event, they are surprised to see so many people dressing in nice clothes. They are even captivated by the live opera that was playing in the grand courtyard. Never in their life they are able to get to be in this kind of celebration. Chiu Wai and Kiu Wai decide to leave and return at a better time.
As everyone in the Ton family is mesmerized by the fireworks for Mr.Ton, Mrs.Ton’s right hand man, Mr.Koo, abruptly interrupts their celebration with shocking news. Mr. and Mrs.Ton quickly follows Mr.Koo outside to see what this news is about as the rest of the family follows behind. In front of them is a cart with a big white cloth covering a body. Mrs.Ton comes over to the body and carefully uncovers the part of the cloth that covers the face. She then hysterically sobs and bends down to embrace her son’s body as he lies there lifelessly on the cart. His servants reports to the family that he was killed by mountain thieves on his way home. Her husband comes over to take a look at his son, and both are crying in each other’s arms.
In that one instant, the red lanterns and ribbons are replaced by the white lanterns. Mei Chun is frozen, just standing there staring at her older brother’s body. The death of their only heir to the Ton family is the end of his life, but also a beginning of this story……
Although Mrs.Ton is devastated by her son’s death, she remains strong to plan for her family’s future. Ever since Mr.Ton had a stroke ten years ago, he had lost some memories and was not able to take care of his family’s business. Mrs.Ton, a strong will woman, had been taking over the family matters ever since. Everyone in the family respects and fears of her because her words are law. Her devotion to her family is her priority. She runs the family using strict guidelines and family policies. She does whatever it takes to keep the family from falling apart, and yes, whatever it takes.
While preparing her son’s funeral, Mrs.Ton is consulting with her number one assistant, Miss.Yin, about the future of the family.
Mrs.Ton, speaks while tears rolling down her cheeks: I can’t believe this is the end of the Ton Family. I was ready to hand the business over to my son. He was our only hope. Now that he’s gone, who will take over the family once I’m gone. I cannot let my brother-in-law take over. If given this opportunity, he will, and I know that our family will be destroyed.
Miss Yin: Don’t be so sad. Let’s remain calm and try to think of a solution.
Mrs.Ton: My only son is dead, there’s no one left to carry on our name. I don’t want the Ton to end right here. Ton’s business had been here for 3 generations. I cannot let it go down. Mei Chun is a girl, once she’s married, that’s it.
Miss Yin: Mrs.Ton, I have a suggestion.
Mrs.Ton: Please tell me. I am willing to do whatever it takes to save this family. I don’t want chaos to break out and everyone in this family will start finding over fortunes and power.
Miss Yin: Mei Chun does not have to leave this family once she’s married. We can find her a husband who will live here with us and carry our last name.
Mrs.Ton: That means that he will change his?
Miss Yin: Yes, their children will also carry the Ton name.
Mrs.Ton: Where can I find a man who is willing to live here as a son-in-law?
Miss Yin: Let me look for these candidates, screen them, and I then I will let you pick one.
Mrs.Ton: Miss Yin, don’t forget that Mei Chun now has a bad reputation in this province. Because of that low-life boy, she is being laughed at. Who will want to marry her?
Miss Yin: Please don’t worry about that. Mei Chun is a beautiful girl and I am confident that I won’t have any problem finding her a good husband.
Mrs.Ton: I am still concern about this, but that sounds like a good idea. If this is what it takes to hold this family, I will give it try.
Chapter 3
Mr.Koo comes in and informs Mrs.Ton that there are two young men coming to talk to her. Mrs.Ton then comes to the formal living room to see them.
Kiu Wai and Chiu Wai both bow to Mrs.Ton as they see her approaching.
Kiu Wai: Hello Mrs.Ton. Thank you for allowing me to talk to you.
Mrs.Ton: What are you here for?
Kiu Wai: Mrs.Ton, I am Miu Kiu Wai, leader of Tham village.
Mrs.Ton: Oh, so you are their leader. I didn’t know that you’re this young. Very admirable. So,what is the problem?
Kiu Wai: I just want to let you know that our village had a fire recently and we cannot deliver you the rice, but we can give you the sweet potatoes.
Mrs.Ton: So that’s the problem? Mr.Koo, why don’t we accept the sweet potatoes instead then? I am sorry to hear that Mr.Tham.
Kiu Wai: Thank you Mrs.Ton. We really appreciate your understanding.
Mrs.Ton: No problem. Is that all?
Kiu Wai: Yes, Mrs.Ton. Take care. Let’s go Chiu Wai.
Mrs.Ton: Mr.Koo, please lead the men out.
Kiu Wai makes a good impression on Mrs.Ton from this meeting. She admires his leadership and his sincerity.
She thinks to herself:
This young man is not bad at all. Although he’s not from a rich family with status, he has the right qualities that I am looking for, someone who can take over this business for the family. He looks very honest and righteous. My daughter may not like this arrangement of mine, but she has no choice.
Few days later:
Mrs.Ton calls Miss Yin into her office to see her.
Miss Yin: Yes Mrs.Ton?
MrsTon: Miss Yin, I think I found Mei Chun a husband.
Miss Yin: Who is this person?
Mrs.Ton: He is the leader of the Tham Village, Miu Kiu Wai
Miss Yin: Him? But he is poor!
Mrs.Ton: I trust my eyes. I can tell he is a good man with capabilities. I have no doubt he will bring Mei Chun happiness.
Miss Yin: Bu his status cannot be compared to our young Miss Ton.
Mrs.Ton: Don’t forget about her reputation. I am afraid that other men will look down on her once they are married to her. I don’t want to see this happen. I guarantee you that Miu Kiu Wai is not this kind of person. Please send Mr.Koo to his village and ask him to come her to talk to me tomorrow. I don’t want to lose time with this.
Miss Yin: Yes Mrs.Ton.
The next day, Kiu Wai comes to see Mrs.Ton per her request. Kiu Wai is nervous about the meeting. He is afraid that she has more demands for his people. Whatever it is, he is willing to try his best to patronize her so that she will not make it difficult to the existing problem.
Mrs.Ton: Please sit down Mr.Miu
Kiu Wai: Yes Mrs.Ton, what is it that you want to see me about?
Mrs.Ton: I want to get straight to the point. I would like you to marry my daughter.
Kiu Wai: Marry your daughter? I don’t know her and why are you asking me?
Mrs.Ton: You don’t need to know. Not only I want you to marry her, but I also want you to live here to be my son-in-law and carry our name.
Kiu Wai is stunned to hear this. It’s a very degrading proposal to him. How can anyone request him to do such a thing?
Kiu Wai: Mrs.Ton, I am afraid I have to decline your proposal. I can never change my last name.
Mrs.Ton: Don’t say that so quick Mr.Miu. If you accept this offer, the people in your village will never have to suffer again. I will ensure that they will always have food to eat, and jobs opportunities. What do you think of that? I give you three days to think about this. Mr.Koo will come to you for the answer in three days. Please think about it. Miss Yin, please lead Mr.Miu out.
Kiu Wai is thinking about the whole situation on his way home. He is agonized at the thought of carrying someone else’s last name to save his village. Upon his arrival, his mother can tell that there is something troubling him.
Mother: Kiu Wai, what is wrong son?
Kiu Wai: I am worried for the people in our village. They are starving and things have worse since the fire. They have no food to eat except for a few potatoes. Eventually we all have to die from starvation.
Mother: We’ll think of something.
Kiu Wai: Mother, maybe we don’t have to be like this. Maybe there is a way.
Mother: What it is?
Kiu Wai: I don’t want to see our people suffering like this. I am really useless as their leader. Mother, I want to ask you for forgiveness first.
Mother: Forgiveness?
Kiu Wai: Yes Mother. I have to change my last name from Miu to Ton. I am going to marry Ton Mei Chun.
Mother: What!? Change your last name? I won’t allow this.
Kiu Wai: Please Mother. This is the only way I can save our people right now. As their leader, I can’t stand sitting here seeing them suffer. Can you understand for me mother?
Mother: Yes I understand your love and devotion to our people, but I don’t want to see you being disowned by our villagers. Even if I agree, they may not. They will not be happy with this. It’s a disgrace to our ancestors. Your father up there will be very angry at you.
Kiu Wai: I will try my best to explain to them.
Mother: Alright then, we will hold a meeting tomorrow morning to discuss this. I will support you whatever you decide to do because I love you.
Kiu Wai: Thank you Mother.
Kiu Wai’s Narration:
Maybe Mei Ling and I are destined to be at the intersection of the road, where we always pass by each other. Maybe it’s meant for us to meet, but not meant for us to be together. In both of our lives, our fates intertwined many years ago………..
Far away from a big town is where my homeland is, Tham Village. I am the leader of my village. We’re proud of our hard work on the rice fields. Though we’re not rich, but we are very rich in laughters and happiness.
I am at the age where I should get married and have kids. This is also my mother’s highest wish. I have asked the matchmaker from a nearby town, Miss Lan, to find me a nice girl from a good family. Couple days later, she excitedly comes to me and informs that she had found me a perfect match, Miss Yung Mei Ling. I have never seen her before, but I trust Miss Lin’s judgement in selecting this bride for me.
In a nearby village couple hours from Kiu Wai’s:
Mei Ling is holding the children’s hands in a big circle as they all are singing songs. Miss Lin comes up to Mei Ling and signals to her that she wants to have a talk. Mei Ling follows Miss Lin outside of the school to discuss about her potential candidate.
Miss Lin: Mei Ling, I just found you a nice rich man. This is his proposal to you.
Miss Lin hands Mei Ling a big red letter.
Mei Ling: Miss Lin, I told you many times that I don’t want to get married yet.
Miss Lin: You are getting old. How long do you want to wait for? Until you’re an old maid then no one will look at you?
Mei Ling: I have a lot of plans for myself. I want to go school in a big city to get a real certificate in teachings.
Miss Lin: You are fine with teaching these kids here. You don’t need to go anywhere far to get a degree. Please think over this proposal. The guy is very wealthy and he comes from a very good family. He will take good care of you. Trust me on this.
Mei Ling: Alright, let me think about it.
Miss Lin: I consider that a yes. I will come back in a few days.
Later that day, Mei Ling opens up the letter. She wants to justify to herself why she doesn’t want to marry him. She lies down on her bed and reads the letter.
Kiu Wai’s Letter to Mei Ling:
Miss Yung, I don’t know too many words. I don’t write beautiful either, so please forgive me. I am a very simple hard-working person. I know that Miss Lin had told you that I have a lot of money and come from a good family, but I want you to know that although I am the leader of the Tham village, I don’t have anything. Though this year our village makes a little profit and I can afford to get married, but I cannot guarantee next year. You don’t have to answer me right away. Think over carefully.
The back of the letter is a simple drawing of his village. Mei Ling looks over the letter and smiles to herself. Though the letter is written with a very simple style, but she can sense his sincerity. She immediately wakes her brother up early in the morning to walk to the Tham village. Mei Ling wants to meet Kiu Wai in person before she decides if she can accept his proposal or not.
During that night before Mei Ling arrives at Kiu Wai’s village, an unfortunate event took place that disheartened him and his villagers. A fire accidentally broke out on the rice fields. In a short amount of time, the entire fields were swept to the ground. Everyone exhaustedly tried to save what they could, but the fire was spreading too fast.
As Mei Ling approaches the fields, the villagers’ cries are heard everywhere for they know they will face a difficult time ahead. A few men ask who she is because they can see she is a stranger. Mei Ling tells them that she is here to see Kiu Wai and to talk to him about his proposal. A little boy in the village runs to Kiu Wai’s house to infom him that Mei Ling is here to see him but he tells the boy to let Mei Ling know that he cannot marry her. The little boy runs back to Mei Ling and relays the message. Other men then explain to Mei Ling that because of this tragedy, Kiu Wai cannot afford to marry her and it’s unfair to her if she were to be married to a poor man. Mei Ling is a little disappointed as she leaves.
Kiu Wai then realizes that he should explain to her himself and apologize to her for declining the proposal. He runs after her into the woods but he can’t find her. Little does he know that she and her brother sit at a bush below a mount that he stands on top. Mei Ling and her brother rest there for a little bit. Kiu Wai, still stands on top and look down into the fields with full of sadness and disappointment that he just missed her. After a while, he goes back home. By the time Mei Ling stands up and walked on top of this mount and looking over the fields, Kiu Wai is already gone.
Mei Ling’s Narration to the story:
In people’s lives, sometimes they missed each other just by one step. Because of that one misstep, suddenly I walk on the road of an unknown destiny. The more I walk, the further away I get from my original path. I remember once someone told me: Time can play trick on people. Those who are destined to meet can suddenly become strangers.
Actually, I don’t believe in the fate of love. I only believe that there is perfect half of myself who is out there. The question is can I find that person? Time is very strange. The further Kiu Wai and I walk on our own paths, the further we are away from one another. As we’re standing in different corners of our lives, the further we walk, the closer our hearts are to each other’s.
Half a day of walking distance from the Tham Village is a province called Luk Hip Province. Luk Hip Province is a well known place because this is where the Ton Family is developed, and continues to prosper. The Ton Family is known for its business from rice to oil. The Ton Family is also an intersection of life for myself and Kiu Wai……………….
Chapter 2
The Ton Family is hustling and bustling preparing for a birthday celebration for the Mr.Ton, the head of the Ton Family. There are men running around hanging up the red laterns and others hanging up red silk ribbons around the courtyard and inside the main room. Crowded in the kitchen are servants busy preparing many exotic dishes. Any special occasion in the Ton Family is a call for big show-down celebrations.
Ton Mei Chun, the only daughter of Mr. and Mrs.Ton, is getting ready to come outside to wish her father his 60th birthday. She dresses in a long silk skirt down to her ankle that allows her to walk with such grace as she makes her way out. Her silk top is made with such a fine material that only the richest can wear. Truly, Mei Chun is a rare beauty in this province. Because of this beauty, she puts herself on top of others and often looks down to most men who approach her for a marriage proposal. Her rudeness and condescending attitude are mixed were her bitterness toward love.
Not too long before her father’s birthday, she was broken hearted by her first love. He was a servant in her family. Their love was discovered by her mother right before they could run away with each other. Her mother cut off their relationship by giving the servant a large amount of money and asked him to leave. Mei Chun was stunned that her lover actually chose the money over her. The rumors quickly spread over the town that she is no longer a proper and pure girl. These rumors disappointed and worried her mother as each day goes by.
Back to the party at the Ton’s mansion, Kiu Wai and his younger brother, Chiu Wai, are looking for Mrs.Ton to explain to her about their fire tragedy. They are not able to deliver the harvested rice as written in the contract. However, they are having a hard time looking for her because of the excitement in the mansion. While looking for Mrs.Ton, they are distracted by the activities going on. Because this is their first time witnessing such a grand and festive event, they are surprised to see so many people dressing in nice clothes. They are even captivated by the live opera that was playing in the grand courtyard. Never in their life they are able to get to be in this kind of celebration. Chiu Wai and Kiu Wai decide to leave and return at a better time.
As everyone in the Ton family is mesmerized by the fireworks for Mr.Ton, Mrs.Ton’s right hand man, Mr.Koo, abruptly interrupts their celebration with shocking news. Mr. and Mrs.Ton quickly follows Mr.Koo outside to see what this news is about as the rest of the family follows behind. In front of them is a cart with a big white cloth covering a body. Mrs.Ton comes over to the body and carefully uncovers the part of the cloth that covers the face. She then hysterically sobs and bends down to embrace her son’s body as he lies there lifelessly on the cart. His servants reports to the family that he was killed by mountain thieves on his way home. Her husband comes over to take a look at his son, and both are crying in each other’s arms.
In that one instant, the red lanterns and ribbons are replaced by the white lanterns. Mei Chun is frozen, just standing there staring at her older brother’s body. The death of their only heir to the Ton family is the end of his life, but also a beginning of this story……
Although Mrs.Ton is devastated by her son’s death, she remains strong to plan for her family’s future. Ever since Mr.Ton had a stroke ten years ago, he had lost some memories and was not able to take care of his family’s business. Mrs.Ton, a strong will woman, had been taking over the family matters ever since. Everyone in the family respects and fears of her because her words are law. Her devotion to her family is her priority. She runs the family using strict guidelines and family policies. She does whatever it takes to keep the family from falling apart, and yes, whatever it takes.
While preparing her son’s funeral, Mrs.Ton is consulting with her number one assistant, Miss.Yin, about the future of the family.
Mrs.Ton, speaks while tears rolling down her cheeks: I can’t believe this is the end of the Ton Family. I was ready to hand the business over to my son. He was our only hope. Now that he’s gone, who will take over the family once I’m gone. I cannot let my brother-in-law take over. If given this opportunity, he will, and I know that our family will be destroyed.
Miss Yin: Don’t be so sad. Let’s remain calm and try to think of a solution.
Mrs.Ton: My only son is dead, there’s no one left to carry on our name. I don’t want the Ton to end right here. Ton’s business had been here for 3 generations. I cannot let it go down. Mei Chun is a girl, once she’s married, that’s it.
Miss Yin: Mrs.Ton, I have a suggestion.
Mrs.Ton: Please tell me. I am willing to do whatever it takes to save this family. I don’t want chaos to break out and everyone in this family will start finding over fortunes and power.
Miss Yin: Mei Chun does not have to leave this family once she’s married. We can find her a husband who will live here with us and carry our last name.
Mrs.Ton: That means that he will change his?
Miss Yin: Yes, their children will also carry the Ton name.
Mrs.Ton: Where can I find a man who is willing to live here as a son-in-law?
Miss Yin: Let me look for these candidates, screen them, and I then I will let you pick one.
Mrs.Ton: Miss Yin, don’t forget that Mei Chun now has a bad reputation in this province. Because of that low-life boy, she is being laughed at. Who will want to marry her?
Miss Yin: Please don’t worry about that. Mei Chun is a beautiful girl and I am confident that I won’t have any problem finding her a good husband.
Mrs.Ton: I am still concern about this, but that sounds like a good idea. If this is what it takes to hold this family, I will give it try.
Chapter 3
Mr.Koo comes in and informs Mrs.Ton that there are two young men coming to talk to her. Mrs.Ton then comes to the formal living room to see them.
Kiu Wai and Chiu Wai both bow to Mrs.Ton as they see her approaching.
Kiu Wai: Hello Mrs.Ton. Thank you for allowing me to talk to you.
Mrs.Ton: What are you here for?
Kiu Wai: Mrs.Ton, I am Miu Kiu Wai, leader of Tham village.
Mrs.Ton: Oh, so you are their leader. I didn’t know that you’re this young. Very admirable. So,what is the problem?
Kiu Wai: I just want to let you know that our village had a fire recently and we cannot deliver you the rice, but we can give you the sweet potatoes.
Mrs.Ton: So that’s the problem? Mr.Koo, why don’t we accept the sweet potatoes instead then? I am sorry to hear that Mr.Tham.
Kiu Wai: Thank you Mrs.Ton. We really appreciate your understanding.
Mrs.Ton: No problem. Is that all?
Kiu Wai: Yes, Mrs.Ton. Take care. Let’s go Chiu Wai.
Mrs.Ton: Mr.Koo, please lead the men out.
Kiu Wai makes a good impression on Mrs.Ton from this meeting. She admires his leadership and his sincerity.
She thinks to herself:
This young man is not bad at all. Although he’s not from a rich family with status, he has the right qualities that I am looking for, someone who can take over this business for the family. He looks very honest and righteous. My daughter may not like this arrangement of mine, but she has no choice.
Few days later:
Mrs.Ton calls Miss Yin into her office to see her.
Miss Yin: Yes Mrs.Ton?
MrsTon: Miss Yin, I think I found Mei Chun a husband.
Miss Yin: Who is this person?
Mrs.Ton: He is the leader of the Tham Village, Miu Kiu Wai
Miss Yin: Him? But he is poor!
Mrs.Ton: I trust my eyes. I can tell he is a good man with capabilities. I have no doubt he will bring Mei Chun happiness.
Miss Yin: Bu his status cannot be compared to our young Miss Ton.
Mrs.Ton: Don’t forget about her reputation. I am afraid that other men will look down on her once they are married to her. I don’t want to see this happen. I guarantee you that Miu Kiu Wai is not this kind of person. Please send Mr.Koo to his village and ask him to come her to talk to me tomorrow. I don’t want to lose time with this.
Miss Yin: Yes Mrs.Ton.
The next day, Kiu Wai comes to see Mrs.Ton per her request. Kiu Wai is nervous about the meeting. He is afraid that she has more demands for his people. Whatever it is, he is willing to try his best to patronize her so that she will not make it difficult to the existing problem.
Mrs.Ton: Please sit down Mr.Miu
Kiu Wai: Yes Mrs.Ton, what is it that you want to see me about?
Mrs.Ton: I want to get straight to the point. I would like you to marry my daughter.
Kiu Wai: Marry your daughter? I don’t know her and why are you asking me?
Mrs.Ton: You don’t need to know. Not only I want you to marry her, but I also want you to live here to be my son-in-law and carry our name.
Kiu Wai is stunned to hear this. It’s a very degrading proposal to him. How can anyone request him to do such a thing?
Kiu Wai: Mrs.Ton, I am afraid I have to decline your proposal. I can never change my last name.
Mrs.Ton: Don’t say that so quick Mr.Miu. If you accept this offer, the people in your village will never have to suffer again. I will ensure that they will always have food to eat, and jobs opportunities. What do you think of that? I give you three days to think about this. Mr.Koo will come to you for the answer in three days. Please think about it. Miss Yin, please lead Mr.Miu out.
Kiu Wai is thinking about the whole situation on his way home. He is agonized at the thought of carrying someone else’s last name to save his village. Upon his arrival, his mother can tell that there is something troubling him.
Mother: Kiu Wai, what is wrong son?
Kiu Wai: I am worried for the people in our village. They are starving and things have worse since the fire. They have no food to eat except for a few potatoes. Eventually we all have to die from starvation.
Mother: We’ll think of something.
Kiu Wai: Mother, maybe we don’t have to be like this. Maybe there is a way.
Mother: What it is?
Kiu Wai: I don’t want to see our people suffering like this. I am really useless as their leader. Mother, I want to ask you for forgiveness first.
Mother: Forgiveness?
Kiu Wai: Yes Mother. I have to change my last name from Miu to Ton. I am going to marry Ton Mei Chun.
Mother: What!? Change your last name? I won’t allow this.
Kiu Wai: Please Mother. This is the only way I can save our people right now. As their leader, I can’t stand sitting here seeing them suffer. Can you understand for me mother?
Mother: Yes I understand your love and devotion to our people, but I don’t want to see you being disowned by our villagers. Even if I agree, they may not. They will not be happy with this. It’s a disgrace to our ancestors. Your father up there will be very angry at you.
Kiu Wai: I will try my best to explain to them.
Mother: Alright then, we will hold a meeting tomorrow morning to discuss this. I will support you whatever you decide to do because I love you.
Kiu Wai: Thank you Mother.