Hu Xiaotian clung to the walls of the well with both hands. His arms were beginning to ache and go numb, and he had been about to retreat, but the news that Empress Jian had arrived instantly revived his spirits. Let's hear what this old woman has to say. Surely she hasn't really come to play matchmaker for Long Xiyue?
Four palace maids carrying lanterns led the way, while four eunuchs followed behind as guards. Empress Jian walked slowly between them. Although she had spent years wandering from place to place with Long Yelin and endured plenty of scorn and cold shoulders along the way, she had weathered those hardships with him. Now that Long Yelin had become emperor, he had not forgotten the wife who had shared his joys and sorrows through poverty, and had invested her as empress.
Empress Jian clearly had little experience managing the inner palace, nor did she possess the imposing dignity that would command its respect. Since becoming empress, she had spent most of her time untangling its chaotic affairs. Her opportunities to see the emperor had also grown fewer and fewer. He had never even stayed a single night at Xinning Palace, though he had not been seen favoring any other consort either.
Long Xiyue led her palace maids and eunuchs forward to greet her, saying respectfully, "Xiyue pays her respects to Your Majesty."
Empress Jian hurried forward and took her arm. "Little sister, there are no outsiders here. Why stand on such ceremony?"
Long Xiyue said softly, "There is a distinction between high and low rank. The rules of the palace must not be broken."
Empress Jian turned and glanced around. "All of you, withdraw!"
The palace maids and eunuchs all withdrew, leaving the two women alone in the garden of Purple