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

When Xie Ning woke up, it was already dark outside, and the room was lit. She squinted her eyes and looked at the gauze lamp on the desk through a curtain of crystal beads. The lamp was covered with a misty, glazed lampshade, and the patterns of bamboo leaves and orchids on the lampshade were reflected on the walls and floor, creating a dreamlike scene.


"Lady is awake," Qinghe whispered and hooked the curtain to one side, bringing clothes to help Xie Ning get up.


Xie Ning waved her hand, "Don't put them on yet. Prepare some water; I need to wash."


She felt dirty all over, sticky with sweat, and thought that if she didn't wash soon, the back of her neck would start to smell.


"The water is ready," Qinghe hurriedly said, "Dinner is still hot, so it'll be perfect for you after your bath."


As Xie Ning got up and untied her hair, she asked, "How did I get back? Have the eldest prince and the others had dinner yet?"


Bathing