In the first year of entering the palace, she was just a Lady of Talents.
In the fifth year of entering the palace, she became a Handsome Fairness.
In the tenth year of entering the palace, she aspired to become the Empress, since it was the only way she could hold onto everything dear to her, never to be taken away.
 She could protect herself, her children, and most importantly, be with him.
This was a path with no retreat; stepping back would be an irreversible calamity.
The bright yellow silk umbrella advanced, and the Emperor's procession slowly entered the city gate. The yellow silk umbrella, the sun-and-moon fan, the purple banner... At that moment, the sunlight dazzled the eyes. Empress Xie's phoenix carriage moved forward along the imperial road, meeting him halfway.

Empress Xie

The emperor turned to Bai Hongqi and commanded, "Escort Handsome Fairness Xie back to the Qingbi Hall." Xie Ning bowed to the emperor and nodded to Princess Mingshou before leading the three children to their carriage.


Despite her unease moments ago, she now felt calmer in the emperor's presence, even when facing the arrogant Princess Mingshou. As usual, Princess Yuyao clung to Xie Ning. Once they were seated and the carriage began to move, Xie Ning could still faintly hear the voices of the emperor and Princess Mingshou.


"The emperor truly enjoys leisurely summer days..."


Xie Ning stroked Princess Yuyao's head, noting that the child barely perspired despite the sweltering afternoon heat. The garden was indeed a cool refuge, unlike the stifling palace. The eldest prince was frail, and Princess Yuyao was young; they dared not use too much ice indoors. On sultry summer afternoons, they would often awaken drenched in sweat, needing to change their clothes.


Wholehearted