The wheel tracks continue on the cobblestone path covered with snow.
The pure, fresh snow reminded one of the delicate petals of a white plum blossom. A luxurious ox-drawn carriage, bearing the flag with the kirin crest, arrived at the Spring Palace. It was the emperor. Upon hearing that the child had been born, he had crossed over early in the morning.
As they passed each other, Fei Ling returned home, and the exhausted Xue Mei, the concubine, was lying on the bed. She was informed of the emperor’s visit and struggled to rise from her heavy body.
“I heard that a child has been born.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
With a tense expression, Xue Mei presented the child.
It was a baby, like a pearl. Despite having once been on the brink of death due to poison, the baby had healthy cheeks. Although its eyes were wide open and it was awake, it was calm and not fussy.
“Your Majesty… It is a girl.”
There was a thought that the emperor would be disappointed.
At the time of childbirth, she hadn’t hoped even a little for a son. She only wished for a healthy birth. However, later, a feeling of impatience had risen within her, as though the wind was blowing into her chest.
“I see.”
The emperor relaxed his greenish eyes and smiled broadly.
“You’ve done well, Xue Mei.”
Tears fell from Xue Mei’s eyes.
“Ah, Your Majesty, thank you for your kind words. I am deeply sorry that I could not bear a successor. If you would show me your compassion once more…”
“I understand. I will surely visit you again. But for now, shower love upon the newly born princess.”
The emperor gently cradled the baby and, after soothing the child with affection, returned it to its mother’s arms.
Xue Mei, feeling relieved, hugged the new life tightly, cherishing its warmth.
