Chapter 190: Venturing into the Palace (3) (1/2)

Matriarch He sighed. She had expected this to happen, so she had given Chu Lian all the instructions she could in the carriage. Now, she could only pat Chu Lian’s small, fair hand in comfort and hope that Chu Lian’s heart was big enough to face what was ahead.

Since Matriarch He couldn’t even meet the Emperor, servants like Xiyan and Senior Servant Gui were held back in a side hall. Only Chu Lian was led by a young inner palace eunuch towards the great palace hall ahead.

The golden tiles beneath her feet had been shined until they reflected her image like mirrors. Chu Lian didn’t dare to walk too quickly, afraid that she would fall. Thus, this became a long and arduous walk for her.

She was about to meet the leader of the entire Great Wu Dynasty, the emperor of a whole country who held power over life and death here. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t nervous.

She hadn’t been born in this dynasty, so although she respected the imperial family, she didn’t really fear them.

“Eunuch Sun, where are you taking Honoured Lady Jinyi?”

Suddenly, a thin, clear voice called out from behind them. Chu Lian turned around at the same time as the eunuch guiding her, and was met with the sight of a tall and slender man standing at the top of some white stone stairs. The man’s azure eyes were too outstanding; how could she possibly forget them so easily?

Eunuch Sun bowed towards Prince Jin. “Replying to Prince Jin, this servant is taking Honoured Lady to meet the Emperor.”

Prince Jin’s light gaze landed upon Chu Lian. His clearly measuring gaze made Chu Lian feel uncomfortable. “At least you’re dressed better today.”

Chu Lian froze for a bit, her almond-shaped eyes widening in surprise. What? Was Prince Jin criticising her outfit?

When had she become so familiar with Prince Jin?

Chu Lian didn’t want to get involved with any of the imperial family at all, especially the children of the Emperor. They were the center of imperial power. She definitely didn’t want to be stuck in between any imperial power struggles.

Although she did help him out a bit the last time they met, Chu Lian intended to keep her distance from him, as much as she could.