In the silent wooden house, the king announced his daughter's name in a clear voice. In Nahua Language, "Ilhuitl" meant light, alluding to the sun in the Sky. And "Tlacocoatl" meant "the Rain God's long serpent, the sacred giant serpent." Put together, the two names were "sun and giant serpent"—that is, "light serpent."
Everyone in the room fell silent for a moment, then understood the political meaning behind the name. Deep envy soon showed in the eyes of the physicians and priests. They looked at the daughter the king held up, then at Snake Woman's disbelieving face, and offered the king their congratulations and blessings.
"May the Main God protect her! The Sun God has bestowed a sacred princess, and will also grant the princess a sunlike face and health!..."
"Praise the Main God! The divinity of the Rain God has become a long serpent by the sea, guarding the princess! She will rise riding the serpent, roam the Eastern Sea and the Mountain, and command the vast seas and lands!..."
"Master! The Main God blesses you, and the ancestors protect you! Your sacred heirs have increased by one more!... And she is even a thoughtful princess..."
"Haaha! Hahaha!..."
Xolotl laughed heartily. Amid everyone's congratulations, it was still the guard captain Ekat's words that pleased him most. He smiled and nodded to everyone, then stroked his daughter's wrinkled little face. Only then, amid the child's strong cries, did he hand his daughter to the Goddess of Spring priestess caring for her. And only at this point did he look toward Snake Woman Miawa, who was somewhat weak and somewhat nervous. He nodded gently, and also reached out to stroke the woman's cheek.
"Miawa, recover well! Don't work yourself, don't overthink. Rest and nurse your body in peace, and take good