The mountain shrouded in dense fog greeted the first rays of the morning sun. The once-gray mist suddenly turned snow-white, no longer gloomy and dim, like auspicious clouds drifting through an immortal realm. Against the white mist, the sheer cliffs and ancient pines took on an otherworldly air.
As the sky brightened and the appointed time approached, the five Daoists packed away their magical artifacts and prepared to leave.
With their parting imminent, the sister and brother seemed to have a thousand words caught in their throats, yet neither knew where to begin.
"Sister, take care..."
"You too."
The woman tried to keep smiling as she raised a hand to smooth the hair at her brother's temples. Her touch was gentle, just as it had been when she tucked him in as a child.
Without another word, she turned and walked toward the five Daoists.
One Daoist approached the cliff's edge, formed a hand seal, and lightly swept his hand forward. Spirit light gathered, and pale white steps emerged from the edge of the clearing, extending upward one after another. The mist parted, revealing the Cloud Road leading into the distance.
Three Daoists stepped onto the stairs first.
The woman followed close behind, her steps composed, with the remaining two Daoists behind her.
The plum blossom deer bounded merrily along, its hoofbeats light and nimble. The white cranes spread their wings and circled the stairs, their clear, far-reaching cries lingering through the morning light and mist.
Illuminated by the spirit light, the mist around the passage grew brighter still, making the procession look like immortals in a painting.
Below the mountain, the recluses scattered across its slopes were startled by the cries of the cranes.
They emerged from their stone caves and thatched huts, looking up toward the summit.
Through