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

In the evening, the Emperor visited Princess Yubin at Chunhua Pavilion, but he didn't stay for a meal. He stayed there and finished the tea, then returned to Yong'an Palace. 


Xie Ning couldn't hide her concerns from the Emperor. After having dinner, the Emperor took the Eldest Prince to the study, questioned him about his studies, gave some encouraging words, finished reviewing the papers he brought back, and then returned to the palace around nine. 


Xie Ning was sitting in front of the mirror combing her hair. After giving birth and recovering well, her hair was as dark as ink, flowing smoothly down her back. When the Emperor entered through the folding screen, she could see him clearly in the large bronze mirror. She turned her head slightly and smiled. 


The Emperor came behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders, feeling that the extra flesh she gained after giving birth and completing her postpartum confinement had disappeared. 


Palace Affairs