Honored Lady Cheng was always one to follow the rules. Even with her protruding belly, she was unwilling to be late.
When she arrived, the other Honored Ladies were not yet all present. Honored Lady Jiang was sitting off to the side, not speaking. The rest, gathered in twos and threes, were eating pastries and making small talk.
Before long, all the Honored Ladies had arrived. The imperial consorts also gradually made their way in. The great hall became much livelier.
The Empress, holding Yu Lan's hand, walked out with a radiant smile. Everyone hurriedly stood up to pay their respects.
The Empress then said with a smile, "My dear sisters, please rise. It's hot, and everyone has endured much!"
Everyone rose, and some chimed in, "To be able to serve Your Majesty the Empress is my good fortune!"
"Indeed, some people wish to come but cannot!"
