The Immortal in the Painting

Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio: The Painted Wall

Legend has it that those traveling through the wilderness at night might happen upon a deserted temple. Inside are two murals filled with celestial beings, said to be gateways to a heavenly realm.

The mural on the east wall depicts celestial maidens scattering flowers. Step into it, and you can spend night after night in their company, lost in dreams from which you never wake. The west wall conceals the abodes of immortals, a paradise beyond the world. Whatever you wish for, you will receive.

Before entering the painting, the Judge repeatedly warned them: The world within it changes without end and is especially adept at beguiling the heart. Stay true to yourself and remain clearheaded at all times if you hope to resist the demons.

After entering the painting, the Judge was the first to fall for its tricks.

The man was simply dressed, with dark hair and snow-white skin. He glanced back just once, and the Judge lost his soul, his feet carrying him after the man against his will.

His subordinate tried to stop him and reason with him. "That's a demon. Don't let it bewitch you."

"He's no demon." The Judge was clearly so bewitched he had lost all sense of direction. He gazed at the man with devoted adoration. "He's an immortal from the painting."

[Things to note:]

1. This is definitely a proper, serious story.

2. There is a secondary couple.

3. Both leads are hopeless romantics. Anyone who is a strict fan of a particular pairing type, anyone at all, should not read this.

Theme: Beware of scams.