Birth of dead child

[Ramona's POV]


It was night time, and a profound silence enveloped the surroundings, broken only by the sound of rain. The lightning momentarily illuminated the road ahead, but soon darkness prevailed, as if a dense black fog had engulfed the entire world. In the distance, the faint sound of a bell could be heard. The town's lights had been extinguished, leaving only a few flickering candles on house corners and lamps standing in front of them to provide illumination amidst the raging storm.


A small white rabbit emerged from its burrow and darted into the rain, seeking shelter in a nearby house. Three middle-aged women cautiously navigated the muddy terrain, paying no attention to the rainwater seeping into their shoes and drenching their clothes and hair. They walked in silence, their heads bowed, without exchanging glances.


A figure emerged from the shadows. Cloaked in a tattered black robe, the mysterious figure moved with an eerie grace, their steps barely making a sound on the wet pavement. Their face was hidden beneath a hood, leaving only a glimpse of pale, ghostly skin. However, they departed silently.


"Let's go, let's go, hurry up, let's move quickly," urged Mia, a woman with black eyes and gray hair. Her face, aged beyond her 50 years, bore an expression of deep concern. Her voice trembled from the cold, and she frequently glanced back at the large palace ahead.


"How can I walk in such heavy rain?" Emily, a 45-year-old woman with gray hair and glasses, grabbed Mia's hand and urgently asked, rainwater running into her mouth as she spoke. Her tone was slightly whiny and irritating for some reason. "Did Empress Elizabeth have to give birth in this rain?"


She complained about the weather and quickened her pace. If she didn't have to take care of a newborn baby, she would rather stay at home and rest instead of going out and getting soaked in the rain.


"She is the Empress. If anyone overhears, they could make your life disappear. And this boy is about to be born, that's why it's raining," said Sophia, a 52-year-old woman with light brown hair tied in a low bun, some strands of wet hair sticking to her forehead. "Otherwise, there hasn't been any rain for the past six years?"


She held a yellow infant blanket and smiled gently, but there was a hint of pity in her eyes. She also appeared tired. They had been midwives for over three decades, delivering countless babies into the world. However, this particular birth was different, and it weighed heavily on their hearts because he was born one week before his expected due date.


Empress Elizabeth's due date was still a week away, and the unexpected early arrival of her baby had left everyone bewildered. They couldn't help but feel a sense of unease, as if something was about to unfold. They knew that this birth held an omen, one that would forever change the lives of those involved.


"Who knows that this baby will change the fate of our village?" Mia supported Sophia and said, "the whole village is happy. For the past few years, the crops have not been harvested due to the lack of rain."


Emily nodded, "It is true. It has been like a drought for years. The villagers are so happy that they don't know how to express their feelings." She sighed heavily, "We need food and we don't have enough money."


The three midwives halted in front of the Imperial Jade palace, a magnificent white structure resembling an enormous eggshell. The palace stood tall and majestic, its grandeur evident in every intricate detail. Delicate carvings adorned the exterior walls, depicting mythical creatures and ancient symbols. The pure white hue of the palace shimmered under the moonlight, casting an ethereal glow.


The architecture of the palace harmoniously blended elegance and strength. Its curved lines and graceful curves created a sense of fluidity, while the sturdy pillars and solid foundation conveyed power and stability. The roof, with its sweeping curves and intricate patterns, showcased the craftsmanship and artistry of the builders.


Perched on the rooftop of the palace were three werewolf sculptures, their heads leaning over to observe the bustling street below. Unlike typical werewolf, they have wings. Nevertheless, their lengthy arms and robust hind legs were awe-inspiring, rendering the absence of colossal wings inconsequential. Onlookers had to tilt their heads upward to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.


As they approached the entrance, they were greeted by a magnificent gate, adorned with golden werewolf and intricate patterns. The gate stood tall and imposing, symbolizing the authority and importance of the palace. Beyond the gate, a wide courtyard stretched out, with meticulously manicured gardens and vibrant flowers adding bursts of color to the scene.


The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Walking further into the palace, they entered a grand hall, with high ceilings and ornate pillars. The walls were adorned with intricate paintings depicting scenes from ancient Lavon mythology and history. The colors were vibrant and the details were exquisite, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the artists.


The hall was filled with beautiful antique furniture, made from rich and luxurious materials such as jade, silk, and lacquer. Elaborate carvings and delicate inlays adorned the furniture, adding to its elegance and beauty. The furniture was arranged in a way that created a harmonious and balanced space, reflecting the principles of feng shui.


Moving deeper into the palace, they entered the living quarters of the emperor and his family. The rooms were spacious and filled with opulent decorations. Intricately carved wooden screens separated different areas, providing privacy while still allowing light and air to flow through.


The walls were covered in silk tapestries, embroidered with scenes of nature, mythical creatures, and auspicious symbols. The colors were rich and vibrant, reflecting the wealth and prosperity of the palace. Delicate porcelain vases and jade sculptures were displayed on shelves and tables, adding a touch of refinement and elegance to the rooms.


"Why are you so late?" a man named Ethan asked, a little nervous. He was a Grand Duke of the court, wearing red and white royal military dress and covered his head with cap.


"We are late because of the rain," replied Mia, wiping the drops of rain from her face.


"Okay, then hurry," Ethan replied urgently. "The Empress is in pain and waiting for you."


"Please, Mia, help me," the Empress pleaded, her voice strained. "I can't bear this pain any longer."


Gently, Mia took the Empress's hand and reassured her, "Do not worry, Your Majesty. I am here to help you through this. Just breathe and focus on your breathing."


As the Empress's contractions intensified, Mia guided her through each wave of pain, offering words of encouragement and support. The room was filled with the scent of medicinal herbs, and the sound of raindrops tapping against the palace windows provided a soothing backdrop.


Everyone anxiously waited outside for the good news. After a few hours, they hurriedly emerged from the room. "It's not a baby boy, but a girl," Mia paused and observed the expressions of everyone, "and she was stillborn."


The words hung heavily in the air, causing a collective gasp to escape from the crowd. Tears welled up in the eyes of the Emperor, who had been hoping for a healthy baby boy to change the fortune of Ziwu Village. He approached his wife, Empress Elizabeth, whose face was filled with disbelief and grief. The room was filled with a somber silence, only interrupted by the sound of muffled sobs and whispered prayers.


"All of this is happening because of that curse, Emperor. Can you do me a favor?" Empress Elizabeth was in pain as she held his hand and pleaded.


"Whatever Empress has asked of me, I will do anything to fulfill your wish," Emperor Daniel gently held her hand and assured her.


"Just follow the instructions given by Father Paul," Empress Elizabeth said, causing the Emperor to fall silent. "Please do it for the sake of our deceased child," she added.


"Alright, alright. I will do as you ask. Just rest and try not to stress," Emperor Daniel said as he adjusted her blanket.


No one knows the true nature of the curse, but they are desperate for a solution. They sought the guidance of wise Father Paul who advised them to perform a ritual to appease the spirit and break the curse. The ritual involved sacrificing the village's most cherished possession, an ancient golden statue of their founding deity who governed the seasons and was responsible for rainfall.


Reluctantly, the villagers agreed to carry out the ritual. They gathered in the village square, holding the golden statue with heavy hearts. As they recited ancient incantations, a dense fog surrounded the village, and a bone-chilling wind swept through the air. Suddenly, the statue emitted a blinding light, and the ground beneath them shook violently.


After the chaos subsided, the villagers noticed a change in their village's map, with the most peculiar addition being the sudden appearance of a lake. The villagers started gathering around this mysterious lake, their curiosity aroused. Unlike any other lake in the region, it shimmered with an otherworldly glow, reflecting the colors of the sky in its waters. Some believed it to be a sign from the gods, while others feared it was a warning of more misfortune to come.