The Phoenix's Silent Tears

The air in the spacious chamber, adorned with jade and gold, feels both opulent and strangely empty. Beautiful peonies fill the corners, offering a fleeting sense of freshness. You, the Empress Lu Qing Yu, sit elegantly on your bed, the weight of your gold gown a familiar burden.

"Let's go," you say, your voice calm despite the cold breeze that has settled with the arrival of fall – your tenth in this palace.

You walk gracefully towards the hall, the morning assembly awaiting. Political problems plague the Great Zhang Dynasty, and as the only woman present, the pressure is immense, though you've grown accustomed to it over the years. The king seems unfazed by the threats, speaking only when necessary.

The meeting ends, and you walk side by side with the Emperor. An unspoken tension hangs between you, a reflection of the coldness that has defined your relationship for the past three years. He no longer looks at you with warmth, only as a political equal.

"Your majesty, would you like to have a cup of tea with this empress?" you ask, trying to maintain a sweet demeanor.

"This emperor is busy right now," he replies, his tone uninterested, passing you by without a glance. You know where he's heading, but you tried anyway. The gilded cage feels tighter than ever.