"The flood dragon, kin to the dragon, commands fish to soar, dives into deep abysses and hides in still pools, riding clouds and driving mist—truly, a most auspicious symbol."
Li Xuanxuan stroked the beard upon his chin, nodded with a gentle smile, and cradled the child as he gazed this way and that. Seeing how wrinkled the infant was, with hair in wisps clinging messily to her brow, he tenderly laid her back upon the small bed.
Now he had three sons and two daughters. Li Yuanxiu, the direct heir, had already turned three. Of the other children, the eldest had reached five years. Mu Yalu was born of a shamanic lineage from the Shanyue clans; thus, it was highly probable the child she bore would be gifted with a Spirit Aperture, and so he cherished her all the more.
"Today, joy befalls us twice over—surely an auspicious portent. Have Xiewen send some goods down the mountain, let everyone confer and celebrate in good cheer."
