Butterfly Aubade

第二章 [ Chapter Two ]

A/N:

 Important

 This not being historically accurate, there might be a mixture of influences from different time periods and dynasties in Asia to create this story. And also please note that the names are last name and then first name.

 Other

 The Crown Prince: 敏正-translated to Clever/Sharp + Proper [Pronounced: MING – ZENG]

Head Attendant: 木春海 translated to Wood Spring Sea [Pronounced: MU – CHUNG – HIE]

第二章

The sound of my footsteps echoed on the wooden floors. I clutched the silk sleeves of my dress; it was made of pale lavender fabric and embellished with gold lotus flowers - the best of the best as grandmother would gush. My heart ran a hundred miles with each and every step I took. Ba-dump, Ba-dump, Ba-dump.

I had been waiting for this for three years.

The young girl beckoned me to enter an unfamiliar quarter. From the exquisite designs and fine interior décor, I knew that this place was restricted and used by the Dowager Empress herself. The opulence could only be afforded and made for someone as important as her. Servants were busying themselves, their faces painted in court fashion. Even their clothing looked finer than those of normal household servants. They bowed to both of us, whispering something only audible to their own ears.

"Lady Ai Xue, please hurry with me," the girl said, her voice retained with ease and maturity as she led me.

I didn't utter one word, merely nodding my head in reply. Quickening my pace, I ignored the aches of my feet - it was excessive to have so many stairs around the palace. Within minutes of the twisting hallways and private chambers, we reached an enormous room. Gold was everywhere, flowers of all kinds decorating the exterior and interior. I saw porcelain and china made with the finest artistry resting as pretty ornaments. There, upon a golden throne sat a figure. Besides her was a young man, sitting in a smaller less intricate seat, the expression on his face showed disinterest. I felt myself pale at their presence. It was the Dowager Empress and the Crown Prince.

The handmaiden gave a quick bow to the Empress and was dismissed with a wag of a painted finger. An older servant pointed for me to stand in line with many other girls. Most of them were adorned with the richest finery from head to toe just like me. I saw the different shades of colors and fabrics, their faces painted to highlight their beauty. But a few twitched and fidgeted, their lips pulled tightly together with worry. I kept my eyes down, only daring to glance up for a second. Dowager Empress Mei Xing wore the brightest gold dress; swirling dragons were sewn across beaded with little rubies. Despite a few gray streaks visible in some of her black hair, it could be concluded that she had been very beautiful during her youthful years. Her eyes danced from one girl to another, the look on her features translated to inquisitiveness. The Crown prince on the other hand showed inattentiveness. I couldn't help but admire his strong jaw, his dark brooding eyes. The dark emerald attire fit his broad body with ease. His lackadaisical manner only made me want to know more. Many of his striking traits resembled the empresses. And at that moment, I had to admit, he was handsome beyond belief.

"Are these all the girls?" The empress said, each word pronounced with eloquent firmness.

"Yes your highness, these are all the girls," the old woman spoke, her voice raspy as she humbled herself before her imperial highness.

"Very well... You. Sing for me," the empress said, her finger pointing at one of the girls' two rows in front of me.

I watched as a trembling girl opened her mouth, attempting to sing but ended on sour notes. She was squeaking and stuttering her notes as other girls looked at her with disdain. I watched in sympathy as she was dismissed. For the next hour or so, the empress continued to pick among the remaining ladies. Some pleased her and others were dismissed to leave with their head hanging in shame. Finally only ninety of us remained. During this entire time, I snuck glances at the crown prince who sat in resolute silence.