"By the mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: I believe that the harmony of Heaven and Earth, the flourishing of civilization and the achievement of internal and external order, and the harmonious and prosperous function of governance, are the foundation for the establishment of rites and the means by which education and moral guidance flourish."
O Niohuru, of noble birth and virtuous lineage, renowned for your outstanding achievements and gentle nature, you have been a model of virtue in the imperial harem. Your conduct is virtuous and upright, setting a fine example for all nations. May you continue to uphold filial piety and diligence, ensuring the prosperity of your lineage and the flourishing of your ancestral temple.
By the grace of the Empress Dowager, you are hereby appointed Empress. Respectfully yours.
A female official, holding the imperial edict, a golden book, a golden seal, and a golden jewel, read the edict aloud in the Kunning Palace. The Empress, dressed in a bright yellow imperial court dress, knelt to receive the edict, the golden book, the golden seal, and the golden jewel.
"Your Majesty, I, Niohuru, am overjoyed by the Emperor's grace. I accept the decree and express my gratitude. Long live the Emperor! Long live the Empress Dowager!"
Immediately afterwards, the Empress, supported by her maids, stood up and looked at the concubines in the harem.
Led by Xu Lejin and Consort Xuan, all the concubines of the harem knelt down in unison and said, "Your Majesty, we pay our respects to Your Majesty the Empress. May Your Majesty live a thousand years!"
"Sisters, rise."
The Empress waved her hand, signaling all the concubines to rise.
Immediately afterwards, led by the female officials in charge of the investiture, the Empress walked with dignified and composed steps toward the Hall of Supreme Harmony.
Xu Lejin, Consort Xuan, and other concubines of the harem took a shortcut and quickly made their way to the outside of the Hall of Supreme Harmony.
Outside the Hall of Supreme Harmony, red silk was laid out. Court officials, noblewomen, and ladies of high rank all looked with respect and envy at the Empress as she walked step by step toward Emperor Kangxi…
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