Reborn Lady

Chapter 172

“Congratulations, my lord; the third lord has bestowed upon you a fine grandson!” After receiving the young eunuch’s joyful announcement, Eunuch Hai turned around with a smile, ready to share the good news with King Yan.

King Yan sat by the window, engrossed in the newly issued and revised laws from the imperial court. He chuckled at the news, setting aside the official document to stroke his beard. “Ah, my grandson! He should take after my third son, learning the ways of warfare to defend against enemies in the future.”

Eunuch Hai flattered, “The third master was, of course, molded by your wisdom. It’s a testament to the talent within our palace lords.”

In acknowledgment of the joyous occasion, King Yan generously rewarded his third daughter-in-law.

Within the Chengxin Hall, Princess Xu and others gathered, their faces beaming with happiness as they observed the newborn Qi Lang.

Xiao Heng, born earlier, were robust and plump boys. In comparison, Qi Lang, weighing merely six catties, appeared smaller. However, despite his size, Qi Lang’s black and dense fetal hair distinguished him. Hair growth varied and it bore no relation to one’s health. Qi Lang, with his lush hair and smooth face, was notably handsome among the newborns.

“Xiao Qi seems to take after his mother more,” Princess Xu remarked, cradling him for a moment before turning to Mrs. Wen.

Mrs. Wen smiled warmly and sincerely, “That’s a good thing. You’ll look even better than Wu Lang when you grow up.”

Xiao Heng shared similarities with her son, possessing Danfeng (phoenix) eyes that complemented his warm smile. When angered or unhappy, he exuded a calm and slightly arrogant demeanor. Her daughter-in-law’s peach eyes were equally enchanting. Boys with such eyes often grew larger, captivating gazes, charming girls as they matured.

With everyone having glimpsed the newborn, Princess Xu entrusted Qi Lang to the wet nurse for care. As the delivery room was tidied up and the windows opened to dispel any lingering odors, the group returned to visit Yin Hui.

Yin Hui lay on the bed, her thick long hair wrapped in red silk. Despite a slightly pale face, her eyes radiated brightness and joy, adding the perfect finishing touch to her beauty. She appeared to be in high spirits.

“You’re in good spirits. Take care of yourself during confinement, especially with Chinese New Year approaching,” Princess Xu expressed her care.

Yin Hui smiled and replied, “Yes, I made you worry.” 

After a brief stay, Princess Xu led the group out.

Wei Luo saw everyone off, allowing him the chance to enter the delivery room and visit Yin Hui.

Before entering, Wei Luo’s thoughts harked back to her condition when giving birth to Xiao Heng. Her face, as pale as paper, lacked the strength to speak. Tears welled up when she saw him, only to be discouraged by midwives who warned that crying during confinement could harm her eyes and potentially lead to lingering health issues. Reluctantly, she closed her eyes and suppressed her tears.

Touching the curtain hesitantly, Wei Luo entered after a moment’s pause.

Yin Hui held the sleeping Qi Lang in her arms, gazing at him with intense affection. At the sound of someone entering, she looked up to find Wei Luo, now dressed in regular attire. Their eyes met, and a smile exchanged. Wei Luo’s once cold gaze now held warmth and a sense of relief after the worrisome moments.

The midwife and wet nurse discreetly withdrew, leaving Wei Luo to sit beside Yin Hui. He inquired, “Won’t you be tired holding him like this?”

Yin Hui shook her head, her eyes fixed on Qi Lang’s small face. “This time, the baby was born quickly, and it didn’t take much effort.”

Wei Luo observed her for a moment before turning his attention to the baby.

Remembering something, Yin Hui asked, “Where is Xiao Heng? Hasn’t he come back yet?”

Wei Luo replied, “He just came back and is washing his hands.”

As he spoke, the sound of running echoed outside, accompanied by the wet nurse’s hushed persuasions, “Wu Lang, don’t run, or you’ll kick up dust again.” 

Eventually, Xiao Heng was caught by the wet nurse, cleaned of the ash, and permitted to enter after wiping his hands and face.

“Mother, did I get a younger brother?” Xiao Heng rushed to the bed and peered in.

Wei Luo handed him the swaddled baby, and Xiao Heng frowned slightly, remarking, “My brother is so small.”

Yin Hui instinctively looked at Wei Luo, who met her gaze. The couple silently communicated and chose not to disclose the dangerous aspects of childbirth to the child, fearing it might frighten him.

“He will grow up soon, just like Liu Lang,” Yin Hui reassured with a smile.

Xiao Heng thought of Liu Lang who was walking wobbly, and who was disliked by San Lang for being too slow. Then he said to Qi Lang, “When you grow up, I will play with you.” 

He wouldn’t disdain his younger brother. Yin Hui affectionately touched his head and remarked, “Xiao Heng, you’re truly a good brother.”

Xiao Heng inquired, “Mother, what’s my brother’s name?”

Yin Hui turned to Wei Luo for an answer.

Wei Luo clarified, “Let’s call him Qi Lang for now. When your younger brother reaches a month old, your grandfather will give him a name.”

This tradition applied to all siblings, from Da Lang to Liu Lang, as well as to Sister Mei from the first household and Sister Zhuang from the second household.

As the day progressed, Yin Hui gave birth, and people came and went. Before they knew it, darkness had fallen. Yin Hui had already retired to her room. She would be sleeping alone for the next few nights so that the midwife and maids could attend to her needs. Having Wei Luo around would be quite inconvenient during this time.

Wei Luo could only speak with Yin Hui after dinner. Upon learning of her concern for Liao Qiuniang, Wei Luo shared Feng Teng’s words with her.

Yin Hui expressed surprise, “Was it arranged so quickly?”

Wei Luo said, “It seems that way. I’ll inquire about the wedding date in the next few days.”

Yin Hui felt joy for Liao Qiuniang, considering the hardships the young girl had endured. If she could marry a good man, it would be the best outcome.

Suddenly, Wei Luo spoke up, “On the day they get married, I’ll take you to the Feng’s house for dinner.”

Yin Hui looked at him in disbelief, as if she had heard something unbelievable in her sleep.

Wei Luo added, “If they get married in a few days, then forget it.”

To go out, she had to wait until she was out of confinement. It was the twenty-fourth of the winter month, with just over a month remaining before the Chinese New Year.