Chapter 943 Murong Jinshu is already 6 months pregnant
Chapter 943 Murong Jinshu is already 6 months pregnant
"What my elder brother says is true,"
Bai Lu smiled as she poured tea for them, her gentle gaze sweeping over each of her brothers.
“The incident happened suddenly, and I was unable to inform you in advance, which made my brothers worry.”
"It's good that everyone is back safe and sound."
Bai Qingze took out an account book from his sleeve and handed it over:
"Bai Lu, this is a summary of the Bai family's various businesses over the past six months. Please take a look."
"Also, I've prepared the clothes you'll wear for my wedding."
"Go take a look later and see if you like it."
Upon hearing this, Bai Liezhao smiled and said,
"Yes, little sister, you're beautiful, you have to come and help us make a good impression!"
The atmosphere immediately lightened when they started talking about happy events in their families.
Bai Chuyao added with a smile:
"You don't need to worry about anything at home, we've taken good care of everything."
"Now that you're back, take a good rest and spend more time with the children."
Within two days, the whole city was immersed in a joyous atmosphere.
Today is the wedding day of Bai Qingze, the third young master of the Bai family, and Murong Jinshu, the only daughter of General Murong.
The marriage between a civil official and a military general's family is a grand event in itself. In addition, the Bai family is now very powerful, and Marquis Bai Lu of Anguo happens to be in the capital. The elegance and liveliness of this wedding far exceed that of ordinary weddings.
Before dawn, General Murong's mansion was already brightly lit and bustling with activity.
General Murong, who had spent his life on the battlefield, was now wearing a brand-new brocade robe, his eyes slightly red, looking at his daughter sitting in front of the mirror, being carefully dressed by the matchmaker.
Today, Murong Jinshu changed into an elaborate and exquisite phoenix coronet and wedding robe. Her eyebrows were like distant mountains, and her lips were like cherry blossoms. She was so beautiful that she was beyond compare.
Her face revealed the shyness and reluctance of a woman about to be married.
"father......"
Murong Jinshu saw her father's figure in the mirror and called out softly.
"Eh."
General Murong stepped forward, his rough hands reaching out to touch his daughter's head, but fearing he might mess up her hair, he could only awkwardly pat her shoulder instead.
"Jinshu, once you're at the Bai family, take good care of yourself..."
"You must be filial to your parents-in-law and live harmoniously with your husband..."
He stopped mid-sentence, remembering the Bai family's unusual circumstances, Bai Yansong's poor relationship with his children, and needless to say, his mother-in-law's even worse, so he changed his words:
“The Bai family’s older brothers are all reasonable, and Qingze is a good boy. I’m at ease knowing you’ll marry into the family.”
He then instructed,
"You know a little about the Bai family... The one in charge isn't one of the older brothers, but your sister-in-law, Bai Lu..."
"She's a reasonable person; you can discuss anything with her."
"If you disagree with her on anything, you must think carefully about whether or not you want to offend Bai Lu..."
"We must be extremely cautious!"
If you can't make up your mind, come back and ask your parents.
As the auspicious hour approached, a series of loud gongs, drums, and suonas resounded from outside the mansion.
"The groom has come to pick up the bride!"
Someone shouted.
The gates of the Murong residence opened in response, revealing Bai Qingze dressed in a bright red wedding robe and wearing a black gauze hat with gold trim. His usual refined and gentle demeanor was overshadowed by the festive atmosphere, making him appear even more handsome and extraordinary, with a radiant spirit.
He dismounted, followed by Bai Liezhao, also dressed in festive attire, and a large wedding procession carrying loads of betrothal gifts tied with red silk. The procession was grand and attracted onlookers who stopped to watch and praise him.
According to etiquette, the wedding procession was given a hard time by General Murong's personal guards and nephews.
With his eloquence and the generous red envelopes he had prepared, Bai Qingze successfully passed through numerous tests and finally arrived at the door of Murong Jinshu's boudoir.
Inside the room, Murong Jinshu's close friends laughed as they presented the final challenge, which was nothing more than urging her to compose a poem to urge her to get ready for the wedding.
For Bai Qingze, it was a piece of cake. After a moment's thought, he recited a heartfelt poem, which drew cheers from both inside and outside the room.
As the door opened, Bai Qingze's gaze was instantly drawn to the red figure sitting upright on the edge of the bed, illuminated by candlelight.
His eyes were filled with amazement and tenderness. He slowly stepped forward, knelt on one knee, and handed over a bouquet of auspicious folding fan flowers, his voice gentler than ever before:
"Jinshu, I've come to pick you up."
Murong Jinshu nodded slightly through the red veil and placed her hand in his palm.
Carried out of the house by her elder brother, Murong Jinshu bid farewell to her tearful parents and was carefully helped into the ornately decorated sedan chair by Bai Qingze.
"Get up the sedan——!"
With a loud announcement from the matchmaker, the wedding procession, accompanied by music and fanfare, headed towards the Bai residence.
The Bai residence was even more bustling with activity.
As the eldest brother, Bai Chuyao took on the role of the person in charge today, busy greeting the guests who came to offer their congratulations.
Bai Liezhao stayed by the groom's side, smiling as he dealt with his friends' teasing.
Bai Lu sat in the inner hall, waiting for the bride to enter.
Looking at the guests filling the courtyard and at her brothers' genuine smiles, she felt happy too.
The seven little daughters wore identical red jackets, looking like seven lucky dolls.
When the wedding procession arrived at the Bai residence, firecrackers exploded once again.
Bai Qingze, holding Murong Jinshu's hand, stepped over the brazier and the saddle, and under the guidance of the matchmaker, walked step by step into the main hall.
"Worship the heavens and the earth-"
"Second worship high hall-"
Since Bai Yansong was not present, Bai Chuyao, as the eldest brother and father, sat in the main seat and calmly accepted the newlyweds' bow.
"Husband and wife pay homage——"
After the ceremony, Murong Jinshu was led to the newly decorated bridal chamber.
Bai Qingze was surrounded by the crowd as the lively wedding banquet began.
Bai Lu didn't go to the front yard to join in the commotion, but instead brought her daughters to the new house.
"Third sister-in-law."
Bai Lu smiled and gestured for the maids to leave.
"Bai Lu."
Murong Jinshu responded nervously from under her veil.
Bai Lu took a jade ruyi from the maid and gently lifted Murong Jinshu's red veil.
“My third brother specifically told me to cover it up later, otherwise I’m afraid you’ll suffocate.”
Her face beneath the veil was charming, and her bright eyes were clear and open, without the slightest trace of pettiness or timidity.
"Sister-in-law three is so beautiful today."
Bai Lu exclaimed in sincere admiration.
"Lady White Snake is joking."
A blush rose on Murong Jinshu's face. She smiled gently, her features exquisite, and she seemed even more approachable than the rumors suggested.
"We're family now, no need to be so formal."
Bai Lu took her hand and placed a brocade box that had been prepared beforehand in her hand.
"This is a small token of my appreciation for you. I wish you and your third brother a harmonious and loving marriage that lasts a hundred years."
When the brocade box was opened, inside were a pair of warm and translucent mutton fat jade bracelets, which were obviously very valuable.
"This... is too valuable."
Murong Jinshu quickly declined.
"One family does not speak the language of two families."
Bai Lu gently but firmly closed the brocade box.
"Take it quickly."
"Third brother is a responsible and good man, and you are a cheerful and good girl. You two will surely have a prosperous life together."
"If he bullies you in the future, just tell me and I will stand up for you."
Murong Jinshu felt warm inside after hearing these words, and all her tension and unease vanished.
She nodded emphatically and smiled sincerely:
"it is good."
Outside the door, the sounds of a wedding banquet could be faintly heard.
Inside, red candles burned brightly, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Her gaze shifted downwards, landing on Murong Jinshu's belly, which, though concealed by her wedding dress, still showed a distinct curve, and her gentle smile deepened.
"Sit down, you must be tired after standing for so long."
Bai Lu helped Murong Jinshu sit down on the edge of the bed, and then moved an embroidered stool to sit next to her.
Murong Jinshu stroked her lower abdomen, her face radiating maternal glow.
"The baby has become increasingly active lately, often kicking and punching in my belly."
"This is a good thing; it means he is healthy and strong."
Bai Lu had given birth to seven daughters, so she was very familiar with these things.
"Back in Liangzhou, I always heard Qingze mention that Lady Bai's medical skills were superb. Today is the perfect day. Would you be so kind as to take a look at me and my child again?"
Murong Jinshu asked with a hint of anticipation.
Although the doctors in the manor and the imperial physicians in the palace had come to see her and said that the fetus was stable, the one she trusted most was still the Marquis of Anguo, who had saved countless lives.
Bai Lu smiled and agreed.
"Give me your hand."
Murong Jinshu did as she was told and extended her fair wrist.
Bai Lu extended three fingers and gently placed them on her radial artery pulse.
She closed her eyes and focused her mind.
The room fell silent for a moment, with only the rustling of leaves in the wind outside the window.
A moment later, Bai Lu opened her eyes and smiled.
"how?"
Murong Jinshu asked with a hint of nervousness.
"Do not worry,"
Bai Lu withdrew her hand and soothed him in a lighthearted tone.
"You have a good constitution and abundant blood and energy, so you've raised your child very well."
"The little one is very well in my womb, and his pulse is steady and strong. He's a very energetic little guy."
Hearing this, Murong Jinshu's heart, which had been hanging in suspense, was completely relieved, and a bright smile bloomed on her face:
"That's good, then I can rest assured."
"There are just a few points to note,"
Bai Lu gently reminded him.
"Now that it has been more than six months, your body will feel increasingly heavy. Remember to move slowly and carefully, and you can no longer ride horses and shoot arrows as casually as before."
"In terms of diet, you can eat more walnuts and fish, which are good for children's brains."
"If you feel lower back pain on a regular basis, ask your third brother to massage it for you."
"I've got it all down."
Murong Jinshu nodded earnestly, a warm feeling welling up inside her.
These meticulous acts of care are things that others wouldn't expect.
She looked at Bailu and said sincerely:
"Lady White Snake, thank you."
"Thank you for being willing to let Qingze and me be together back in Liangzhou."
Bai Lu smiled and patted the back of her hand:
"Nonsense, you two are in love, it's a match made in heaven, how can you say I'm making it happen?"
"Back then in Liangzhou, I felt bad for you. The wedding was held in such a rushed and simple way."
"Fortunately, today, your third brother has made up for all of this for you."
Today's grand wedding is not only a formal declaration of marriage, but also Bai Qingze's way of giving his beloved woman and unborn child a legitimate title and honor.
As they were talking, the door to the new house was gently pushed open, and Bai Qingze walked in carrying a bowl of light lotus seed soup.
He had probably been given a lot of alcohol, as his face was slightly flushed with intoxication, but his eyes were clear and full of tenderness.
"You two seem to be having a very pleasant conversation, so I didn't have the heart to interrupt you."
He handed the lotus seed soup to Murong Jinshu and said softly:
"Let's grab something to eat first. The front yard is noisy, so I had them block it all."
"You're the one who should be eating something."
Murong Jinshu gave him a reproachful look, but her eyes and brows were full of sweetness.
Seeing this, Bailu smiled and stood up:
"Alright, you two can have your private talk. I won't get in your way."
"Third Brother, take good care of Jinshu."
"rest assured."
Bai Qingze nodded solemnly.
Bai Lu turned and walked out, and behind her came Murong Jinshu's voice:
"Lady White Snake, please take care."
She nodded slightly and opened the door.
Bai Lu emerged from the bridal chamber, passed through the corridor draped with red silk, and returned to the banquet in the front courtyard.
The wedding banquet was at its climax, with toasts and laughter filling the air.
The civil and military officials rarely had the opportunity to set aside matters of the court and gather together to drink heartily.
The emperor and empress were also at the main table, talking with several highly respected senior officials.
Bai Lu walked over and bowed to the Emperor and Empress.
"No need for formalities, Marquis Anguo, please take a seat."
The emperor was in a very good mood today, and he raised his hand with a smile.
"Today is a joyous occasion for your Bai family, and the Empress and I have come to share in the happiness."
The Empress nodded with a smile and raised her teacup to Bailu.
Bai Lu noticed that the Empress's face seemed paler than usual, and her smile also carried a hint of weariness.
Perhaps the scene today was too grand and exhausted me.
"Thank you, Your Majesty and Your Highness."
Bai Lu took her seat.
After several rounds of drinks, the atmosphere at the banquet became increasingly lively.
Suddenly, the empress sitting beside the emperor frowned slightly, unconsciously pressing one hand to her chest, and her face grew even paler.
She gently tugged at the emperor's sleeve.
The emperor was engrossed in conversation with an old general when he felt a pull. He turned his head and asked in a low voice:
"what happened?"
"Your Majesty, I feel... a tightness in my chest, and I'm not feeling well."
The empress's voice was weak, and fine beads of cold sweat appeared on her forehead.
The emperor glanced at her and saw that she only looked a little pale and did not have any other more serious symptoms. In addition, today was the wedding of a subject, and it would be a shame if the emperor and empress left the banquet early.
He assumed the Empress was tired from handling state banquets and other matters for days, so he gently comforted her:
"Perhaps it's because there are too many people in this hall and the air is not circulating well."
"Please be patient for a moment. Once Pingkang and the others have finished toasting these tables, we will return to the palace to rest."
Upon hearing this, the Empress opened her mouth, but ultimately swallowed back the words that were about to come out.
Not wanting to spoil everyone's joy on such a joyous day, she could only force a nod, pick up her teacup, and take a small sip, trying to suppress the churning discomfort...
Bai Lu, who was sitting not far away, saw everything.
She wanted to step forward and ask, but seeing that the emperor had already comforted her and the empress herself had not said anything more, she decided not to be presumptuous.
After another incense stick's time, the emperor felt that the time was about right, so he got up and signaled.
Everyone rose to see him off. Amidst shouts of "Respectfully seeing off Your Majesty! Respectfully seeing off Your Majesty!" and "Respectfully seeing off Your Majesty!", the Emperor and Empress boarded their dragon carriage and phoenix palanquin and slowly departed.
The wedding banquet at the Bai residence was as lively as ever, but no one could have imagined that this ordinary scene would be the last time many people saw the Empress...
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