In the second version, Niu Lang and Zhi Nu were fairies living on opposite sides of the Milky Way. Feeling sorry for the two lonely sprites, the Jade Emperor of Heaven actively tried to bring them together. Unfortunately, he succeeded too well - Niu Lang and Zhi Nu became so enraptured with each other that they neglected their work. Annoyed, the Jade Emperor decreed that from that point on, the couple could only meet once a year - on the seventh night of the seventh moon. And so today, star gazers celebrate Qi Qiao Jie by gazing up at the star Vega, east of the Milky Way which represents Zhi Nu, and at the constellation Aquila, on the west side of the Milky Way, where Niu Lang waits for his lover to join him.
So, it's actually a bit of a sad love story. At least they get to see once a year, I suppose that's better than nothing... and definitely a reason to celebrate! Guys - if you have a Chinese girlfriend - or if you're just a romantic mind - remember to treat your loved one to some flowers, or do whatever it is that makes her happy!
