The Forbidden Palace

When we arrived we were greeted by older maids and eunuchs. There was only four other ladies there...I wonder how many were chosen. I doubt they set us all to arrive at the same time. The oldest eunuch explained we shall be escorted to our personal accommodations now so we can have a few days to get settled. While the rest of the ladies show up to move in as well.

We walked for what seemed forever through gardens and long stone pathways. Walking this much in these shoes was something I was going to have to get use to I suppose. Huiqing was helping me some, probably because I started to slow down. Finally we arrived at a gate. The eunuch guided us toward the door, bowed and left.

Inside the gate revealed a beautiful stone patio with cherry blossom trees in every corner, and some potted flowers to liven up the area. "Cherry blossom Palace" Hung above the front door. Fitting. I walked into a well decorated room with beautifully carved wood door frames and light blush pink curtains and patterned rugs. The cushions at my tables are a deep plum purple with gold accents. And the bed...a thousand layers of light pink and purple curtains and silk sheets. It looked like it was going to be heaven to sleep in.

Huiqing was smiley widely as we toured our new home "let's meet your new personal maids and eunuchs my lady".

4 ladies maids and 4 eunuchs at my service, odd to have my own small household. They bowed a great me and said in union "We shall serve you with loyalty Noble Lady Li Jing!" I had Huiqing hand out small rewards for now and directed them back to work.

Finally we were alone..."Hfft" as I finally sat down. Relieving my poor feet. Huiqing poured me some fresh hot tea. Taking a sip, I wondered what the other ladies ranks are and how many...I suppose I will find out when we all go to met the Empress Dowager officially in two days.

"My lady this palace is so nice and beautiful, you are very blessed" Huiqing said smiling and admiring the furnishing. "And I am grateful to follow my lady wherever you go!" As she got to her knees to bow. I helped her up quickly "Huiqing you know you have been so much more to me than just a maid, we grew up together. You are my sister and confidant. You will be the one and only person in this palace I can truly trust. I am so grateful for you" I said giving her a caring smile and a hug. She was right the palace was beautiful and grand, I just hope I don't have to fight to keep my place in it.