Rebirth: Phoenix Riding the Ninth Heaven

Li Ruoyue awoke in a state of shock, her heart tangled as if by cold iron chains. The painful memories surged back like a tidal wave, unable to escape or forget them. Her body trembled, tears silently streaming down her cheeks.

Li Ruoyue (filled with pain): "Those days were the darkest moments of my life."

She recalled the days when Li Ruoliu had framed her. Those feelings of helplessness and despair cut through her heart like a knife. She remembered being framed, misunderstood, abandoned by everyone, and the helplessness of losing her loved ones. She remembered the loneliness of being in the cold palace, the cold and fear of those nights.

Li Ruoyue (with tears in her eyes): "But I won't let this happen again."

She stood up, walked to the window, and looked at the starry sky. She knew that only by being strong could she fight against those dark memories. She wanted to make herself stronger and never let anyone hurt her again.

Li Ruoyue (secretly determined in her heart): "I will make those who hurt me pay the price."

She wiped away her tears and put on her most gorgeous clothes. She wanted everyone to see that she was not just an avenger, but also a protector of this country. She wanted to make those who had looked down on her take notice.

Li Ruoyue (calmly): "I will let you know that I am invincible."

At the Taoist temple, Li Ruoyue's days and nights are a blend of tranquility and deep contemplation, each day paving the way for her future. In the morning, as the first rays of sunlight filter through the window, she slowly opens her eyes and begins a new day. She knows the present peace is merely the calm before the storm, yet her heart remains remarkably calm, knowing that every breath she takes is a contribution to a stronger self.

At first light, Li Ruoyue, accompanied by Luzhu, slowly practiced a gentle set of Tai Chi. Though slow, her movements held a profound inner strength, reminiscent of her plans for the future. Later, under the guidance of a Taoist priest, she would savor a bowl of warm medicinal concoction, brewed from herbs unique to the Taoist temple, designed to nourish her body, weakened by long-standing illness. She felt grateful for every sip, for it was the source of her renewed health.

In the afternoons, she would stroll through the temple's courtyard, occasionally chatting with the priests, gathering news from the outside world, especially details about her family. Her discerning eye always managed to glean crucial information from even the most ordinary conversations, thus informing her plans. And when night fell, she would quietly sit in her room, leafing through the books given to her by the temple, delving into everything from Traditional Chinese Medicine to ancient military tactics. Her mind, steeped in this ocean of knowledge, grew ever more resilient.

At night, when the temple bell rang, she would attend the evening classes, accompanied by Lu Zhu. Those ancient scriptures seemed to expound the truths of the universe, and her mind unconsciously broadened. She learned how to maintain a calm heart amidst chaos and how to find hope in adversity.

During these ordinary yet extraordinary days, her bond with Luzhu deepened. Luzhu was not only her shadow, but also her support. In the quiet of the night, their figures stretched out in the candlelight. Li Ruoyue would reveal her dreams and plans to Luzhu, and Luzhu would always listen silently, her eyes gleaming with determination and support. Their tacit understanding, like the brightest star in the night sky, guided each other's path forward.

Li Ruoyue knew that although such days were peaceful, they were the most precious time in her life. She wanted to use this time to make herself stronger and prepare for the upcoming battle of fate. Her heart was full of anticipation, looking forward to the day when she could stand before the world and announce her return, declaring that she was no longer the weak woman at the mercy of others.

While strolling through the Taoist temple, Li Ruoyue stumbled upon a strange figure. He was dressed in a simple Taoist robe, his face shrouded in shadow, seemingly observing everything around him. His eyes were deep, as if he could see into people's hearts.

Li Ruoyue (curious): "Who are you? Why are you here?"

The man slowly raised his head, revealing a young and handsome face. His eyes revealed a wisdom that was otherworldly and moving.

Taoist (calmly): "I am a Taoist priest here, and I come here to seek inner peace."

Li Ruoyue was puzzled as to why a young Taoist priest could have such a profound gaze, so she decided to learn more about this mysterious figure.

Li Ruoyue (curiously): "Can you see what I'm thinking?"

The Taoist smiled slightly, didn't answer, and just looked at her quietly. Li Ruoyue felt an inexplicable power, as if it could cleanse the dust of her heart.

Taoist (calmly): "Everyone has his own destiny."

Li Ruoyue was deeply moved by these words. She knew that her destiny was different from others. She decided to consult the Taoist, hoping to get some enlightenment from him.

Li Ruoyue (seriously): "How should I face my fate?"

The Taoist was silent for a moment, then said calmly: "Girl, your destiny is in your own hands. Only you can decide your future."

Li Ruoyue fell into deep thought. She realized that whether revenge or not, she needed to find her own way.

Li Ruoyue (secretly determined in her heart): "I want more than just revenge."

She began to study Taoism and tried to understand the true meaning of life. Her mind gradually became peaceful and her decisions became wiser.

Li Ruoyue (calmly): "I will let the world witness my changes."

Li Ruoyue decided to further test the power of this mysterious Taoist priest. She asked a series of questions about politics and philosophy, trying to understand the depth of his knowledge.

Li Ruoyue (curious): "If you were Emperor Qian, how would you govern the country?"

The Taoist smiled lightly and did not answer directly. Instead, he asked, "Young lady, how do you think Emperor Qian should govern the country?"

Li Ruoyue thought for a moment, then replied, "I believe the Emperor should be people-oriented and impartial."

The Taoist nodded in agreement and then asked, "So, what do you think of the power struggle?"

Li Ruoyue was silent for a moment, then said: "Power struggle is just a means. The real goal is to let the people live and work in peace and contentment."

The Taoist priest asked again, "What do you think of revenge?"

Li Ruoyue took a deep breath and said frankly: "Revenge used to be my motivation, but now, I hope to surpass it."

The Taoist smiled in appreciation. His words were filled with wisdom: "Young lady, your heart is very close to the essence of Tao."

Li Ruoyue felt an unprecedented calmness. She knew that this Taoist priest indeed possessed extraordinary wisdom and insight.

Li Ruoyue (secretly determined): "I will use this wisdom to benefit the world."