Return

Tomorrow is finally the day I will be out of my quiet period and return to the daily life of the harem. The time seemed to pass so quickly but at times very slowly. I've been praying and painting the last couple weeks and I must say with all the practice I think even Sister Mingyu would have been proud of my work. These days I can finally think of our memories with a smile. I shall live well for her and our lost babies. I will carry on, now stronger and ready to keep fighting for my destiny.

According to Huiqing's very reliable sources I have been keeping up on the business of the harem while in peace. After the grand promotion the Emperor started to favor Imperial Concubine Xiu. Who has always kept to herself but apparently a persuasive dance at the banquet caught His Majesty's eye. Noble Lady Daiyu is with child and Imperial Concubine Ning has been showered with favor so much she has been acting as if she is head of the harem. Dressing and acting above all the other ladies even though she's not above Imperial Concubine Xiu and I. Apparently she had a maid beat so badly she can't walk anymore. Even going so far as bullying First Attendant Meili and the two others her rank. A shame really to hear such things. These women I thought my sisters. The only one who wrote to me was Sister Meili and she didn't even mention the bullying but her dowry maid came to me. I sent soothing tea but until I'm back in the Emperors arms that's really all I can do...I'm powerless.

I prayed for most of the night but still woke up feeling like I got a thousand nights sleep. Today is the day. I shall greet and have tea with the Empress Dowager and all the other ladies of the harem. I am ready but I'm worried it will be a whole different harem from the one I left, peaceful with friendship. From everything I hear it seems it's changed completely. However I shall face today with grace and hope.

Huiqing did my hair half up reluctantly but as I instructed along with my jade hair pin set. Wearing a lavender colored dress and a light blush long sash. Plain but pretty. Huiqing doesn't think I am displaying my rank properly but after many weeks of prayer and meditation it just doesn't feel right to dress up. Wearing the finger guards for the first time in 3 months felt odd but familiar. Looking in the mirror before I left...I look myself again and I felt myself again but renewed. I truly feel thankful for my time alone.

Most of us arrived around the same time but Sister Ning arrived last. Dressed in a bright purple with a heavy looking peacock head piece with 3 rubies dangling down on her forehead. Red lipstick with dark eyeliner which came as a shock because I've never seen her wear make up. Sister Daiyu did her make up very similar and she wore a bright blue dress with a large gold flower head piece with dangling sapphires. Very beautiful. I suppose I do seem under dressed now. Even Sister Xiu was dress in bright colors with gold hair pins. Well it's too late now, I shall wear my humble choice proudly.

After all of us greet the Empress Dowager, we were seated and served tea. "I am so glad to see you all here today ladies. Welcome back Imperial Concubine Li Jing. I hope your peaceful prayer period was fruitful my child." The Empress Dowager said with a smile. Adding quietly. "Hopefully the peace can return along with you". Only Sister Ning, Xiu and I were close enough to hear that part. Well now. Seems it's true.

"Many things have changed since Sister was gone, I think the harem has grown honestly" Sister Ning said touching her hair piece and studying my attire. Then continued with a sneer in her voice. "Sister Daiyu is with child and now apparently so is Sister Xiu" Causing some chatter amongst the ladies. Quickly Sister Xiu said "Sister I was keeping that to myself till I have a 3 month stable carriage, we want to be sure about these things" fanning herself self profusely.

Disrupting the chatter the Empress Dowager Congratulates Sister Xiu. Most of the other ladies stayed silent after. "Be happy and enjoy your time with child Sister Xiu" said Sister Ning, I know what she truly meant with those words. I'm sure that was meant to hurt me as well. How childish. Knowing the pain herself.

"I am extremely happy for both my sisters but ultimately the harem for its growth. We shall continue to grow together my dearest sisters" I said with a warm smile. With that no one else said anything. But Sister Meili returned my smile. It was good to see her sweet face. Shortly after everyone was dismissed but me. Of course the Empress Dowager wishes to speak with me.