Dawn had just parted the thin veil of mist when the palace bells tolled three times, marking the beginning of the first morning court under the reign of Huang Shang Xiao Yi Feng.
The Grand Hall stood in magnificent splendor, its golden pillars soaring high, and its floor layered with white marble that reflected the sunlight streaming through tall windows. The air was solemn, the only sound being the soft echo of officials' footsteps as they entered the chamber.
Over a hundred officials, from the grand ministers to the border generals, were arranged neatly according to rank. At a single command, they all bowed deeply, their unified voices resonating through the hall:
"Da jian, Huang Shang All respect to His Majesty, the Emperor."
Yi Feng sat upright upon the dragon throne. That morning, though he wore the golden imperial robe embroidered with five-clawed dragons, the shadow of grief still lingered on his faceb the grief of a son who had just lost his father. Yet beneath it, his eyes gleamed with resolve, as though declaring that a new generation had ascended the throne.
The morning court was merely an introductory session. There were no debates, no policy proposals. The officials simply introduced themselves, expressed their condolences, and pledged their loyalty to the young ruler. Yet every word spoken, every glance exchanged, carried hidden meanings. Some bowed with genuine reverence, while others silently weighed how firm this young Huang Shang truly was in his hold of power.
Yi Feng listened attentively, nodding lightly from time to time. He knew his first morning court was no mere formality. It was the opening act a stage where he would be judged, measured, and tested.
And behind the hall's solemn silence, the faint scent of intrigue began to bloom.
After the ministers withdrew from the hall, Yi Feng stood for a moment before the throne.
He then stepped out, walking through the long marble corridor lined with towering golden pillars until he reached the tranquil imperial garden. The morning breeze brushed his face, carrying the scent of chrysanthemums and dewy grass.
In the distance, the palace lake shimmered beneath the sunlight, its surface calm as a mirror reflecting the trees and flocks of swans gliding gracefully across.
Yi Feng walked along the stone path. His steps were steady, yet his thoughts restless. The peaceful scenery seemed to grant a momentary relief from the heavy burden that had just fallen upon his shoulders. Birds chirped softly among the branches, while the murmur of water from a small canal added harmony to the morning air.
Soon after, the Grand Chancellor appeared from another path, accompanied by General Li Zue An and the Chief Eunuch. They walked side by side and waited for the young Huang Shang to begin the conversation.
The Grand Chancellor bowed respectfully.
"Huang Shang, we wish to discuss the matter of selecting a Huang Hou and official consorts. Several noble families have already submitted candidates, and the decision rests in Huang Shang's hands."
Yi Feng gazed at the lake for a moment, weighing the consequences of every choice. He gave a light nod.
"Very well."
They followed his steps until they reached a wooden pavilion overlooking the lake. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, reflecting upon the water's surface, creating a soft and soothing glow. The wind and water blended together, forming a natural melody that accompanied their serious discussion.
General Li spoke first, his tone firm yet measured.
"Huang Shang, from the perspective of military stability, there is a candidate related to our Xiao family the Zhang clan of the northern border, which is the family of the late queen. Rejecting their candidate could risk creating tension."
The Chief Eunuch added carefully but clearly.
"Huang Shang, the selection of the Huang Hou must preserve the purity of the imperial bloodline. The consorts may serve as bridges for alliances, but every move must be made with great deliberation, so that Huang Shang's wisdom is seen by both ministers and the people."
Yi Feng lowered his gaze, watching the ripples on the lake.
"Consider all aspects political, familial, and personal. From the Zhang family, whom do they propose?"
The Grand Chancellor stepped forward and replied calmly.
"Huang Shang, they have put forth their third daughter, Zhang Zu Er. She is known for her education, gentle demeanor, and the full support of her family."
Yi Feng nodded slowly.
"Very well. As for the Huang Hou, I will decide personally. But regarding the consorts, you may handle it together with the officials of the inner palace. Ensure everything is conducted in accordance with the dignity of the empire."
The three bowed deeply.
The atmosphere remained heavy with solemnity, yet the gentle breeze, birdsong, and murmuring water eased the tension just slightly.
Five months had passed since the death of Emperor Xiao Muo Heng. The once-quiet palace was now filled with meticulous preparations for a historic day. In the grand courtyard, red lanterns hung beneath the gilded eaves, swaying softly with the spring breeze. The sweet fragrance of peach blossoms mingled with the scent of incense, evoking both sanctity and sorrow. Gongs and drums sounded in slow rhythm, marking the beginning of the wedding and coronation ceremony of Huang Hou Zhang Zu Er.
The selection of consorts and the Huang Hou had concluded. Huang Shang Xiao Yi Feng had chosen Zhang Zu Er, a noblewoman of grace and intellect. As she stepped into the wedding hall, her red silk gown shimmered, adorned with golden phoenix embroidery that symbolized her elegance. Her hair was styled into an ornate bun, decorated with golden dragon pins and crimson pearls, while a red veil covered her face a symbol of purity and good fortune.
Upon the throne, Huang Shang Xiao Yi Feng wore a maroon wedding robe embroidered with golden dragons coiling around his form. A golden belt accentuated his rank, and a crown inlaid with red jade heightened his regal presence. His gaze fell upon Zu Er sharp, yet tinged with tension and longing.
The ceremony began. Zu Er lowered her head, her steps slow but steady. The rustle of silk from her gown created a delicate symphony within the vast, hushed hall. Royal priests chanted ancient incantations, their voices echoing, enveloping the hall in sacred solemnity. The incense thickened, filling the air with reverence and gravity.
Huang Shang Xiao Yi Feng stepped forward, his eyes fixed on her.
"Zhang Zu Er," his voice was low yet firm, "are you ready to bear this responsibility as my Huang Hou and my companion?"
Zu Er swallowed hard, her heart pounding, yet her voice was steady.
"I am ready, Huang Shang."
For a moment, a flush spread across her cheeks—a mixture of nervousness and resolve. She bowed, then lifted her gaze toward Huang Shang, her eyes glimmering with both defiance and acceptance of fate.
The Emperor lifted the golden crown and placed it gently upon her head.
"From this day forth, you are my Huang Hou… my confidante and my counsel."
The hall fell silent for a breath. Then soft cheers arose from the nobles, yet behind those smiles whispered ambitions, alliances, and betrayals. Servants presented silk fans and crimson vases, adding visual splendor while emphasizing status and newfound power.
After the coronation, Zu Er turned to Huang Shang.
"Huang Shang… I will do my best."
Her voice was soft, nearly a whisper, her hand clutching the edge of her veil to still her trembling.
Huang Shang Xiao Yi Feng gazed deeply into her eyes, as if reading the steadfastness hidden beneath her calm expression.
"Remember, in this palace, happiness is but a mask. Be cautious of whom you trust."
Zu Er nodded slowly, her eyes shining with newfound determination. This day was not merely a wedding it was the beginning of a great duty, of veiled intrigues, and of secrets that would shadow their every step within the palace.
Outside the hall, the spring wind carried the fragrance of peach blossoms and incense, marking the birth of a new era under the radiant red emblems of the dragon and phoenix gleaming beneath the sun.