Promise of Xue

Ying Lili, after taking the letter from her chamber, went to meet Xue Yu-Yan. "Court Lady Xu, stay here. I will come outside in a few minutes," Ying Lili walked inside the chamber. Xue Yu-Yan was sitting on the porch on the wooden stairs. 

Ying Lili found Xue Yu-Yan was in some deep thoughts. But unlike earlier days, her sight was not pleasant. Ying Lili felt a bit guilty for agreeing with the punishment. 'I should not have been harsh on her!' Ying Lili told herself. 

Ying Lili saw Xue Yu-Yan had focussed her gaze on the plum blossom tree in the garden of the porch. 

"Sister Xue." Softly Ying Lili called out her name, bringing Xue Yu-Yan from her thoughts. She turned back and stood up upon seeing the Crown Princess there.

Ying Lili went near Xue Yu-Yan. "Is Sister Xue doing well?" 

"Yes, your highness," Xue Yu-Yan replied.