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Beautiful, strong-willed and eager to learn, Zhu Yingtai
came from a rich but conservative family in Zhejiang province
during Eastern Jin Dynasty. She knew her father would not
let her attend classes outside and tried hard to think of a
way to convince him. She then disguised herself as a man
and neither her father nor mother could recognise her. With
their approval, Zhu set off for Hangzhou with her maid Yin Xin.
On their way they met Liang Shanbo and his servant Si Jiu from Huiji. They became good friends and swore brotherhood. Once Zhu fell ill in bed and Liang made every effort to take care of her. She was so grateful of Liang that she gradually fell in love with him. However, for three years Liang did not have a clue that Zhu was actually a girl. |
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One day when Zhu was still feeling unwell in bed, she had a
dream in which she was in beautiful costumes on her way to
marry Liang. However, her guards of honour and other companions
were soon attacked by a gang of devils and finally she was
separated from Liang. Zhu woke in horror, knowing that there
must be something wrong.
Zhu's father had been sending her letters forcing her to return home. Zhu had no choice but to quit. Before departure she asked her teacher's wife to be a matchmaker for her and Liang. Liang saw Zhu off for miles. On their way Zhu tried to hint at her true identity, but Liang did not get the message at all. Before they parted, Zhu told Liang she had a twin sister at home and asked him to visit her as soon as he could for a proposal. Liang was told the truth when he returned to the college. He then rushed off to visit Zhu with Si Jiu. However, Zhu's father had already accepted another proposal from a rich man Ma Wencai and refused to change his mind. Liang missed the chance and left with disappointment and frustration. |
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A few days later, Liang died of sorrow and illness. Grief-stricken,
Zhu insisted to visit his graveyard before going to the wedding
with Ma. She took off her wedding gown in front of Liang's
tomb and cried with all her strength. Suddenly the tomb opened
and Zhu jumped inside. Since then, Liang and Zhu became a pair
of colourful butterflies which would never part again.
Starring: |