A Pink Sky

They arrived at the red gate that sealed off the valley where the tombs were, and they all 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 tomb, Meili stared in wonder at the grandeur of the Sacred Way which lead to the Changling Tomb.

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

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

She was quite over-awed. The whole experience was a reminder of the incredibly high status of the man she was walking with.

This man was the second son of the Emperor. She must do her best to serve him well and please him, as her brothers and father did.

"Yes. I can't fault my Emperor Father for the love he lavished on my Empress Mother. We Zhu men fall hard when we fall in love," he said significantly.