Caught in a Snowstorm

Mei Meili and the three young men arrived at the red gate that sealed off the valley where the tombs rested; they dismounted, handing their horses over to the guards.

No one, not even the Emperor, could ride a horse on these grounds.

As they walked to the Empress's tomb, Meili stared in wonder at the grandeur of the Sacred Way which lead to the famed Changling Tomb.

All along the road there were incredible stone figures of wild animals and men, interspersed with beautiful archways, gates and pavilions.

"Your highness, what a beautiful tribute this Sacred Way is to your Empress Mother."

She was quite over-awed. The experience had reminded her of the incredibly high status of the man she was walking with and she suddenly felt inexplicably shy with him.