The procession had already entered the suburbs of the Capital City. The weather along the journey had been splendid, encountering only one flurry of snow, which was not significant. Tiny snowflakes drifted to the ground, quickly melting away.
The Xuanyuan family's elder matriarch decided to rest at an inn for the night and enter the city early the next morning.
Although it was still early afternoon, and there was enough time to enter the city, she had not informed the Emperor about her return to the Capital. Showing up unexpectedly today would surely disturb the entire Imperial Harem. Why cause unnecessary disruption during mealtime?
If she was to cause a stir, she wanted to give everyone time to prepare.
Moreover, she was returning with Xiaojiu. How could she re-enter the Palace quietly? The entire Imperial Harem should undoubtedly come to welcome them!
Therefore, after consulting Xuanyuan Que, the Empress Dowager decided they would enter the city the next morning.
