In this episode of "Two Years in the Forbidden City", a diplomatic audience with the Empress reveals the Supreme Lady's strong sense of self- righteousness, curiosity about the outside world, dubious nature and even womanly gossip. Der Ling and her sister's appearance opened the door wider for her to the outside world. Der Ling has no choice but to stay in the palace to serve as her main interpreter and even marry someone she selected or arranged for her.