未知の運命: 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐭

𝐁𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐝

Several months passed, and the once whispered rumors had now solidified into truth—Língxiāo was indeed pregnant again. Her growing belly was unmistakable, and the entire palace hummed with anticipation. Though no one knew the gender of the child, the imperial couple's excitement was palpable.

One morning, as the Empress rested in her chambers, Mei-Ru was by her side, attending to her needs while young Minhao played on the floor with a set of hand-carved wooden animals. The boy, now more expressive, babbled happily, lost in his world of toys.

Língxiāo placed a gentle hand on her belly and smiled, feeling the faint stirrings of the life within her. "I wonder if Minhao will have a brother or sister," she mused aloud.

Mei-Ru, always attentive, smiled as she arranged pillows behind the Empress for comfort. "Regardless, Your Majesty, this child will be loved and cherished. The empire is eager to welcome another heir, but the family bond you share is what truly matters."

Língxiāo's eyes softened. "You're right, Mei-Ru. I only wish for our children to grow in harmony, strong and kind. Minhao will be a guiding light for this little one."

At that moment, Minhao toddled over, his tiny fingers gripping one of his wooden toys. He held it up to his mother, babbling in his endearing way. Língxiāo chuckled softly. "Ah, my little prince. What do you have there?"

He pointed at her belly and said something unintelligible but joyful, his innocent curiosity clear.

Mei-Ru laughed gently. "I believe the young prince is already eager to meet his sibling."

Língxiāo smiled, her heart full as she looked between Minhao and Mei-Ru. The months ahead would be a time of great change, but surrounded by love, she felt ready for whatever was to come.

The empire's future, it seemed, would soon welcome a new light into its midst.

—

As the months passed, Língxiāo’s pregnancy advanced, and the palace was once again abuzz with anticipation. The Emperor and Empress kept the gender of the baby a mystery to all, but they had already discussed names in private.

If it were a boy, he would be called Xiang—strong, noble, and fitting for the future of the Zui Empire.

One evening, as Yuan sat beside Língxiāo on a shaded veranda overlooking the palace gardens, they spoke of the future.

"Our Minhao is growing fast," Yuan remarked, his voice soft as he watched their son playing with Mei Ling in the distance. "And soon, he will have a sibling to guide, to protect. I hope he is ready for that responsibility."

Língxiāo smiled, her hand resting on her swollen belly. "Minhao may still be young, but his heart is full of kindness. He will be a wonderful elder brother."

Yuan nodded thoughtfully, then looked at her with a tender smile. "And what of you, my love? Are you prepared to welcome another into our lives?"

Língxiāo met his gaze, her expression both serene and determined. "I have carried the weight of the empire on my shoulders, Yuan. I will carry our children with the same love and dedication. Our family will grow stronger with each new member."

Just as she finished speaking, a giggle rang out from the garden. Minhao had toppled over in his attempt to run after Mei Ling, and for a brief moment, his laughter turned into a small cry of frustration as he landed on the soft grass. His face scrunched up, tears welling in his eyes as he looked around, unsure of what to do.

But before the tears could fall, Mei Ling was at his side, offering her tiny hand with a smile. "Come on, Minhao! Up, up!" she chirped.

Minhao sniffled, glancing at her hand, and with a little effort, he grasped it, pulling himself back to his feet. His tears quickly disappeared, replaced by a bright smile.