Warm sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow across the spacious chamber. The scent of fresh herbs and faint incense lingered in the air, blending with the soft cries of a newborn.
The Su Manor was alive.
Laughter echoed through the hallways as servants bustled with excitement. News of the young master's birth had spread like wildfire, and the entire estate was caught in the warmth of celebration.
Inside the inner residence, Lin Xuiyan rested against the silk-padded headboard, her expression tired but serene. Her fingers gently caressed the small bundle nestled in her arms—tiny, quiet, and warm.
> "He's so peaceful…" she whispered, voice almost trembling.
Across the room, Su Lifan stood beside a few elders from the clan, his usual stern face replaced with something rarely seen—pure joy.
> "He'll bring good fortune," said Elder Su Chen with a knowing smile, stroking his long beard. "Rain during the night, sun by dawn. A sign from the heavens."
Su Lifan let out a soft chuckle, patting the old man on the back.
> "Let's not place burdens on his shoulders just yet," he said, though even he couldn't hide the pride glimmering in his eyes.
Servants moved gracefully in and out of the chamber, setting down plates of fruits, warm porridge, and fine wine. A celebration had been declared—not excessive, but enough to whisper to the Eastern Continent:
The Su Clan's bloodline continues.
Outside, colorful banners fluttered like phoenix feathers. Laughter mixed with flute melodies as children from the outer quarters ran barefoot through the courtyard, their paper lanterns swaying in the breeze.
Back inside, Lin Xuiyan's lips curved into a gentle smile as she fed the child. Her thumb brushed his soft cheek, and for a moment, she just… watched.
> "Su Yi… your father's strength, your mother's heart. That's all I ask of you."
Su Yi stirred slightly, his infant eyes fluttering open. He couldn't understand their language—not yet—but the warmth, the touch, the heartbeat close to his ear…
It made him feel safe.
In the silence of the crib, he lay quietly. Observing.
His tiny hand reached out toward the curtain's gentle sway. For just a second, the air around his fingers seemed to ripple—like something within him had responded. But no one noticed.
No lights. No voice. No drama.
Just a breath.
A flicker.
Then… he yawned. Small. Soft. Human.
And drifted back into sleep.
---
In the distance, firecrackers popped like thunder. More relatives arrived bearing gifts wrapped in silk. The Su Clan stood proud—not for legacy or strength—but for something deeper:
A moment of peace. A moment of family.
And in that quiet celebration, one child rested.
Not a monster.
Not a prodigy.
Not yet.
Just… Su Yi.