The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl
A poor Herd Boy works for a farmer, caring for a magical yellow cow that grows like gold. One day the cow speaks to him, revealing that the Weaving Maiden bathes in the Sea of Heaven. She tells him he can marry her if he steals her clothes while she swims. The cow carries the boy up into the sky on her back, flying past clouds and golden fish. They arrive at a magical shore where nine maidens are bathing among jewels and coral. The Herd Boy hides the Weaving Maiden's red garments in the forest as instructed. When the maidens notice him, they cry out in fear and demand their clothes back. The other eight sisters leave the seventh alone, but the Weaving Maiden refuses to marry a mortal. She warns that her father will punish them for breaking heavenly laws. The Herd Boy stands firm, refusing to return the clothes until she agrees to his proposal. The yellow cow suggests asking an old willow tree for guidance on this matter. The willow confirms their union is destined by Heaven, satisfying the maiden's doubts. She puts on her clothes and follows him down to earth as his wife. However, after seven days, heavenly orders force her to return to the sky. In a sad parting, she draws a line across the sky that becomes the Silver River. This river separates them forever, leaving them to gaze at each other from opposite banks. They meet only once a year when crows form a bridge over the stars. The story ends with their eternal separation and annual reunion in the night sky.
