Chapter 01: The Phoenix

Only her!

"Princess." The wet nurse timely tugged at her sleeve, bringing her wandering thoughts back.

In the rumors...

"Dance of Autumn!" The Phoenix suddenly commanded with a sharp tone, her delicate and clear voice carrying an immense authority, "Yuao, it is no longer your concern. I did not say it was your fault; you may leave now."

"What should we do? Does this porridge not taste good?" Yu Feng blinked and asked in confusion

As clever as she is, how could she not know the intentions of the Princess of Luling? Moreover, she is even more convinced that at this moment, there are hidden eyes in Qifeng Pavilion observing everything that just transpired clearly, and without her needing to convey a message to the Wei family, they would naturally be aware of her response

The wind is not particularly strong

"That is why I wanted to ask you, would you be willing to accompany me?" The Phoenix gently took Li Tong's hand, her eyes filled with eagerness, "Tong'er is just like me, having never been to the Eastern Capital, right?"

As she watched the grateful dance of Qiu retreat, the wet nurse clapped her hands and laughed, saying: "My dear princess, you are truly remarkable. If you continue to be this impressive, be careful that you might not be able to marry in the future, as no one would dare to take you!"

If one wishes to establish a princess as the crown princess, Princess Taiping is the best candidate

The Xiangluan Pavilion was originally a place where Princess Taiping played and frolicked during her childhood. Since her marriage, the Xiangluan Pavilion has been left vacant. During the reign of Emperor Gaozong, he and Empress Wu frequently traveled between Chang'an and Luoyang, with the court relocating to Luoyang no less than seven times. The Hanyuan Hall became increasingly desolate, and even when Taiping occasionally returned to the palace, she would no longer stay overnight at the Xiangluan Pavilion.

is ... ...

This is the best possible outcome

At this moment, Yufeng had already completed her grooming and dressing. She wore a pale yellow silk dress adorned with small floral patterns, complemented by a bright red half-sleeve top, cinched at the chest, which accentuated her tall and graceful figure. She moved to sit at the table, where several palace maids, including Linxian, were holding a makeup box for her to choose her favorite bracelets. Upon hearing Yuyue's words, she was momentarily taken aback: "This is indeed my oversight; I failed to remind you. If she has not woken up, do not disturb her sweet dreams. She has not been feeling well these past few days, often unable to sleep at night. Just yesterday, she finally managed to fall asleep, and now I have caused her to be disturbed." She was momentarily taken aback: "This is indeed my oversight; I failed to remind you. If she has not woken up, do not disturb her sweet dreams. She has not been feeling well these past few days, often unable to sleep at night. Just yesterday, she finally managed to fall asleep, and now I have caused her to be disturbed."

It is rumored that Princess Yufeng is a celestial being descended from the heavens, possessing the ability to fly and divine the future

It is only natural. However, my sister has never left the palace, and for the past six years, she has been living in seclusion at Qifeng Pavilion, rarely going out... Baima Temple is renowned for its flourishing incense offerings, and although it is said to be the best place for praying to Buddha and fulfilling vows, it is located far away in Luoyang, a journey of a thousand miles. How could the Empress Dowager possibly feel at ease allowing my sister to travel such a long distance alone

"Yes, Your Highness! I shall go at once." A young maid, about ten years old, responded and then left. After a short while, she returned, bowed, and said, "I report to Your Highness that Princess Tong has not yet risen. I conveyed Your Highness's message to her lady-in-waiting, Sister Yan Jun, and she instructed me to inform Your Highness that Princess Tong will definitely come to accompany you during the meal."

Sister Wei cares for me, and of course I know that. I cannot refuse her kind intentions. However, Tong'er, you know I do not like sweet food, so please eat this cucumber porridge on my behalf, and consider it as accepting Sister Wei's kindness!

"Yes." Lady Hualing received the order and went out

"Princess, have mercy!" Wu Qiu, seeing the princess silent, became increasingly frightened and hurriedly bowed his head, calling out, "I beseech the princess for mercy!"

Ah. The heart full of longing suddenly turned to nothingness, and she could not help but sigh, "Wuqiu, do not blame me for punishing you. Although all the maids and eunuchs of Qifeng Pavilion are under your management, you must also understand the difficulties of those in lower positions. Did you not also start from small tasks? Why, as your position rises, do you fail to empathize with others? People inevitably say the wrong things and make mistakes; as long as it is not a grave error, what is wrong with being lenient and forgiving? You see, am I not right?"

In fact, there are many princesses like Li Tong within the royal family. If it were not for the Empress Feng taking residence in the Qi Feng Pavilion, cherishing her kin, and keeping her by her side as a companion, how could she enjoy such splendor and wealth now? Whenever she recalls the days six years ago when she and her mother endured hunger and cold in the Yeting, with no one to care for them, she shudders.

Li Tong's biological mother was originally a palace maid in the Yeting who performed menial tasks. Due to a stroke of fortune, she gained favor and bore a daughter, subsequently being granted the title of "Imperial Daughter." Such a rank is hardly regarded among the multitude of beauties in the imperial harem.

It is rumored that Princess Yufeng resembles a celestial being, gentle and graceful; just a single glance at her can captivate one's heart

While speaking, Wu Qiu led four or five young palace maids to set up the breakfast, and then the young palace maids withdrew. Lin Qian came over to attend to the princess during her meal; Li Tong was attended to by her personal maid, Yan Jun.

As soon as she finished speaking, a loud "slap" was heard, and Yuyue was caught off guard and received a slap on her face

"Fool!" A beautifully crafted porcelain bowl shattered on the ground, splashing soup and water everywhere. Princess Taiping's stunningly beautiful features twisted into a grimace, her sharp eyes revealing a hint of cruelty. "That damned little wretch, how could Mother value her so highly? Hmph, it is truly infuriating!" Furrowing her delicate brows and contemplating for a long time, she finally seemed to make up her mind and commanded, "You must quickly summon General Cao Huan for me. Remember, do not make a sound, and be careful with your head!"

Go! Princess Taiping waved her sleeve, sending the young eunuch away. After he left, her tightly furrowed brows gradually relaxed, revealing a triumphant smile

I noticed that it is quite warm outside, yet you have come wearing a cloak. Could it be that the wind is strong outside?" Yu Feng asked as Li Tong took off her cloak.

I kept my sister waiting for a long time; she really got up early. Li Tong saluted Yu Feng.

The wet nurse of the Empress Feng, having served diligently since childhood, was greatly favored by the Dragon, and thus was specially granted the title of "Lady Hualing," holding a fourth-rank position. This distinguished title is, in fact, far more honorable compared to that of a common-born princess like Li Tong, who holds no title or rank.

"Oh, why did sister order a bowl of cucumber porridge today?" Li Tong was clearly very familiar with Yu Feng's preferences

She knew that her mother had actually begun to seek suitable candidates for her several years ago. Who would her husband be? She was aware that her mother secretly favored her, which caused dissatisfaction among many, with her own sister, Princess Taiping, being the most infuriated.

"Princess, I... I am just..." she murmured, lowering her head. Although Princess Yufeng possessed the delicate and graceful demeanor of a sickly beauty, it did not imply that she was truly as incapable as her appearance suggested. Her intelligence and shrewdness were by no means inferior to those of her mother. Having served Princess Yufeng for so many years, Wu Qiu understood this better than anyone else

The Daming Palace of the Chang'an Imperial City, featuring the Hanyuan Hall, has a corridor on each side of the platform, extending respectively towards the Xiangluan Pavilion on the east and the Qifeng Pavilion on the west

"Princess Xie, this servant takes her leave!" Yu'e trembled as she got up and hurriedly retreated

For the Tang Dynasty, this seemingly high-status daughter of heaven often unintentionally makes people forget her existence. Until, without realizing it, she turned sixteen.

Everything ends with rumors, while the frail and sickly little princess in reality is locked away in the Phoenix Roost, never seeing anyone throughout the day. What kind of person she truly is remains unknown to all.

The purpose of Wei's flattery towards Empress Feng was naturally to hope that through her, Wu Zetian could reclaim her command. It was impossible to reinstate Li Xian as emperor, but at the very least, she hoped to remain in Luoyang or Chang'an—Luling was simply too remote.

Since the passing of Emperor Gaozong, Empress Wu has completely relocated the court to Luoyang. Although the imperial city within Chang'an still exists, few of the old officials remain in the palace.

Thus, although Li Tong is esteemed as a princess, she holds no official title

Yufeng gazed greedily at the beautiful scenery outside the window for a long time. Suddenly, with a sigh, she became lost in thought and murmured to herself, "What could it be like beyond the palace walls?"

The phoenix remained silent, lightly moving her lotus steps to the window, gazing blankly at the vibrant spring scenery outside the window

"There is no need for excessive courtesy, Tong'er." The Empress smiled as she took her hand, "It is indeed my fault for disturbing your sweet dreams. Come, sit with me for a while... Nurse, please prepare the meal."

She is not interested in state affairs, not because she is truly heartless in abandoning Li Xian, but because one must always act within their capabilities. Since the Empress Dowager could bear to demote the Third Brother to such a remote place, it is undoubtedly out of concern that he might seek an opportunity to rebel and seize the throne in the future. The Empress Dowager, who has always acted decisively and ruthlessly, would have likely had the Third Brother executed long ago if it were not for the bond of kinship.

"Peony!" Li Tong exclaimed excitedly, "Please take Tong'er to the Eastern Capital!"

From a young age, Yu Feng was frail and weak, and Empress Wu Zetian feared that she might die young, so she took great care of her. In pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, her diet has always been relatively light, and her breakfast was not as grand as that of other masters, consisting only of simple foods such as porridge and cakes

As I relieve myself, I watch each of the imperial sisters leave the palace in splendid fashion to marry, yet who among them can truly claim to have found happiness? To live with a man whom one has never met, let alone developed any feelings for, and to bear children together—just the thought of it is inconceivable. Behind a seemingly perfect marriage lies merely a political transaction; what is there to envy? Such a marriage is better left unpursued. Behind a seemingly perfect marriage lies merely a political transaction; what is there to envy? Such a marriage is better left unpursued

Regarding what the princess said, it is... it is what this servant just heard from the little palace maids around the Empress Dowager! This servant, this servant also does not know whether it is true or false

After finishing breakfast, the two sisters took a stroll in the garden, and Yufeng leisurely expressed her thoughts.

In the second year of the Tiaolu era, five years later (AD 680), the former crown prince Li Xian was deposed and reduced to commoner status, exiled to Bazhou. On the 23rd of August, the fourteen-year-old Prince Li Xian of Zhou was established as the crown prince.

Oh dear, princess, you will catch a cold like this... Dance Qiu, move a little faster!" the wet nurse urged

Oh dear, sister, do you not understand the meaning of the Princess of Luling...

In this year, Li Dan was twenty-two years old, and Yu Feng had just turned sixteen.

The weather has been pleasant these past few days, and my mood has also improved. I believe it is due to my mother offering incense and making wishes for me at the White Horse Temple last month, accumulating merit, and the Buddha's blessings. I often think that I should take the time to visit the White Horse Temple in person to express my gratitude to the Buddha; that would be the proper thing to do. Tong'er, what do you think

The two pavilions, East and West, have since become desolate, leaving only the West Pavilion, Qifeng Pavilion, still standing. Yufeng has resided in Qifeng Pavilion for over ten years; since she could remember, she has lived there. Due to her frail health, she has spent most of her time in bed, taking medicine more often than meals, and thus, since moving into Qifeng Pavilion, she has not stepped outside even once.

"Madam Hualing, you are too kind," Li Tong said with a smile, "I am still young and do not deserve such praise."

The reason I dismissed them is precisely because I did not want to put you in a difficult position and lose face in front of them. You are an intelligent person and should understand my meaning. I see that it is getting late, and Princess Tong should be arriving soon. Please go down and prepare our breakfast.

Hurry up and eat, or it will lose its flavor when it gets cold". Yu Feng gently placed the plate in front of Li Tong, a hint of a smile hidden in her eyes

She is more aware of what Taiping is worried about

It seems that this seemingly enticing cucumber porridge is not so easy to swallow

On the 4th day of the 12th month in the 2nd year of Yongchun (AD 683), Emperor Gaozong of the Tang Dynasty passed away at the age of fifty-six. On the day of Gaozong's death, Li Xian ascended to the throne, becoming Emperor Zhongzong of Tang. Empress Wu then changed the era name to Hongdao, and twenty-seven days later, on the first day of the new year, the era name was changed again to Sisheng.

"This servant acknowledges her mistake, and begs for the princess's mercy!" Wu Qiu's expression changed dramatically, her lips turning pale with fear as she knelt down straight.

"Are you saying that the Empress intends to return to Chang'an again?" The chilling voice startled the young eunuch, causing him to involuntarily shudder.

In the second year of the Shangyuan era (675 AD), the Crown Prince Li Hong, only twenty-four years old, passed away suddenly in the palace of Luoyang. At that time, Emperor Gaozong was gravely ill with a dizzying ailment and issued a decree stating: "I was about to appoint the Crown Prince, but my illness has prevented me from doing so. I hereby command that another be named, which may serve to honor the Emperor with filial piety." On March 13 of the same year, a decree was issued: Empress Wu shall act as regent, and the Prince of Yong, Li Xian, shall be established as the Crown Prince.

The various princes have been successively deposed, and the emperor on the dragon throne seems to be performing in a play, each one following the course they are meant to take. Empress Wu has already grasped great power, subtly indicating the intention to depose the descendants of the Li family and to proclaim herself as emperor. The civil and military officials of the court are speculating on Empress Wu's intentions regarding the selection of the heir to the throne, wondering whether she will choose a princess instead of a prince.

As the autumn dance unfolds, her eyes shimmer and flow, and she turns to gaze at Wu Qiu.

"That was sent by Sister Wei yesterday. I know you love sweets, so I specially saved it for you." Yu Feng took a sip of the slightly warm red rice porridge, her delicate face radiating an aura of tranquility

Sigh! The princess rubbed her aching forehead, truly not wanting to trouble herself with these matters. However, as a member of the royal family, she had no choice. If she did not calculate everything more accurately and swiftly than others, even with her mother's comprehensive protection, she would have perished long ago in these sixteen years.

"Useless fool!" With her brows furrowed in anger, she said, "The princess asked you to deliver a message, and you can't even handle such a trivial matter. What use do you have left?" After saying this, as if still not satisfied, she reached out and twisted her hand roughly on the already swollen face.

Thus, a matter that was treated with the utmost seriousness, akin to a national affair, regarding marriage discussions for a princess who was older in age, was deliberated upon by numerous ministers, and then deliberated again... Eventually, it became widely known throughout the court, and some unusual anecdotes about the rarely inquired about Princess Feng of the Tang Dynasty, after being embellished through various layers, spread into the court and into the homes of ordinary people

"Yes, I am deeply grateful for the autumn dance," she said, bowing her head respectfully before quickly getting up. "I will prepare it right away. I take my leave!"

So, sister, what do you plan to do

Yuyue was so frightened that her knees buckled, and she fell to the ground, not caring about the pain in her cheeks, tears streaming down her face: "Your Highness, please forgive me, I know my mistake, next time... next time I will not dare again"

"Yes, Princess..." A few cold and indifferent words left Wu Qiu feeling deeply ashamed

There will be no next time for you...

In the Eastern Capital, Li Tong was lost in thought, reminiscing about the splendor of Luoyang, and for a moment, he became entranced.

"How could it be?" A look of indifference flashed across the youthful face of the Phoenix Empress, "Since ancient times, which emperor's daughter has ever worried about marriage?"

Sister Wei? Could it be the Princess of Luling?" Li Tong was taken aback. The Princess of Luling, Wei, was the primary wife of Li Xian. After Wu Zetian deposed Li Xian, he was demoted to the title of Prince of Luling. It was unexpected that Wei could navigate through layers of connections to curry favor with the Empress. Without needing to elaborate, Li Tong could guess her intentions.

What is my sister thinking? Lost in thought, a group of women entered Qifeng Pavilion, led by a young girl of about sixteen, whose beauty was striking. She had slender shoulders and a delicate waist, draped in a scarlet cloak. Although her demeanor still bore a hint of youthful innocence, it subtly exuded an air of elegance and nobility. She seemed so absorbed in her thoughts, akin to a monk in meditation, that she didn't even notice my entrance.

"What do you mean by 'I'? How should I speak?" Yu Feng stood up, waving her hand to signal Lin Qian and the others to leave, leaving only her, the wet nurse, and Wu Qiu in the room

Li Tong gazed incredulously at the naive Yu Feng, hesitating as he said, "But..."

In the first month of the first year of the Sheng period (684 AD), Emperor Zhongzong, who had just been in power for over forty days, was deposed by Empress Wu. The emperor of the Tang Dynasty was succeeded by Wu's fourth son, Prince Li Dan of Yu, who ascended the throne as Emperor Ruizong, marking the beginning of the Wenming era

At the age of sixteen, Yu Feng, although not as lively and active as during the peaceful times, openly requested her father and mother, the Emperor and Empress, to grant her a consort in the palace. However, according to custom, it is also time to consider her lifelong affairs.

"Nurse, there is no need to go to such trouble." With a pair of bewildered, large watery eyes, Yufeng was draped in only a layer of light silk gauze, her delicate and exquisite figure fully revealed. She sat on the edge of the bed with her tender white feet bare.

Princess Tong! The wet nurse slightly bowed, merely to pay her respects

I am fine," she said, pointing at her slightly swollen head with her finger. Her vermilion lips parted, "Yue'e, please go to the side hall and see if Tong'er has woken up. If she has also gotten up, invite her to join me for breakfast.

In addition to being able to pay homage at the Baima Temple, one can also enjoy the flowers

The princess has awakened, Wu Qiu, Lin Qian! Quickly attend to the princess's change of clothes and grooming!" A woman, approximately in her forties, hurriedly organized the palace maids.

A wise woman is one who is intelligent yet discreet! Yufeng firmly believes in this, as it has successfully allowed her to live safely for sixteen years.

Passing through the long Dragon Tail Path and turning west leads to the Qifeng Pavilion. In the early morning, when the first rays of sunlight illuminate the golden plaque of the Hanyuan Hall, the Qifeng Pavilion begins its daily bustle.