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

Changning Hall remained unchanged. As Xie Ning got off the sedan chair, Bai Hongqi greeted her with a smile, helping her steady herself. He then slightly bowed and led the way while speaking softly.


"The Emperor didn't have much for lunch, and the pastries that were sent were untouched as well."


Xie Ning nodded. Indeed, the weather was so stifling that she had no appetite. However, the Emperor was tenacious by nature. Even on hotter days than this, he wouldn't be as affected as he seemed today.


There must be something else on his mind.


When Xie Ning entered the hall, the Emperor was standing by the window. He didn't turn his head at the sound of her entrance.


Looking out of the study's window, one could see flowers and trees in a corner of the courtyard, their hanging flowers resembling strings of pearls.


"Princess Mingwei visited in the morning. She wanted to see Mingshou. I granted her request."


Study