Chapter 1199 - 1205 Birthday Feast (3)
Cai Lian was scolded fiercely, her face red with humiliation as she withdrew her foot, almost on the verge of tears. However, fearing it would ruin her makeup, she held back, biting her lip and following the palace maids and eunuchs of Caiwei, meekly making her way to Shuntian Hall.
Upon arriving at Shuntian Hall, the noblewomen waiting outside knelt down upon seeing the arrival of the Empress’s Phoenix Chariot, shouting, "Long Live the Empress, Long, Long Live the Empress—"
Cai Lian then realized just how noble her sister, who had grown up with her from a young age, had become!
The noblewomen kneeling on the ground, each dressed in court dress, even those stationed in the corners—positions she could never aspire to attain. Yet, all these exalted ladies, whom she had to look up to, were now bowing humbly at her feet, devoutly worshiping. What a thrilling feeling that must be!
Caiwei, assisting Meng Huaian by the hand, descended from the Phoenix Chariot and slowly said, "Madam, please rise and excuse the courtesy!"
"Thank you, Empress Dowager!" The ladies got up, all respectfully half-bowing their heads, none daring to glance freely at the Empress’s face.
Caiwei said, "My ladies, thank you for waiting. Everyone, please go sit in the hall first. The Emperor has just left to fetch the Empress Dowager and Empress Dowager Mo and will be here soon!" With that, she led the way to Shuntian Hall, the noblewomen automatically parting to make way for her.
Cai Ping followed behind the Empress, not dressed as a palace maid, naturally attracting everyone’s attention. She puffed up her chest, feeling a satisfaction she had never felt before. Now, she was no longer upset about the wrong she had just suffered; such is the awe-inspiring presence of the Empress Dowager!