Rebirth: Phoenix Riding the Ninth Heaven

Li Ruoyue traveled back and forth between the mansion and the clinic every day, and this life had lasted for several days. In her free time, she would visit Qi Lei's mother and treat her illness. Although her life was dull, it also made people feel at ease.

When she returned that day, Madam Hua called him to the hospital and said to him with a smile, Yue'er, the Mid-Autumn Festival dinner will be held in a few days. All the ladies in Youpin Street and the young ladies of each family will come to the palace to attend the banquet. You should prepare anything. Tell mother, I will ask them to prepare the basic things. I have already prepared them. If there are any other details, you can talk to Momo in your hospital, or discuss it with me. You must take care of all these things before going to the palace.

Li Ruoyue answered obediently, "Madam, I will prepare it carefully." But in her heart she was thinking that something big seemed to have happened on this day in her previous life, like the last Mid-Autumn Festival dinner when the Fourth Prince was reprimanded by Emperor Qian for losing something in front of the palace and was imprisoned in the palace without being allowed to go in or out. Later, when he entered the palace, he realized that it was not a matter of picking up something in front of the palace, but a trap carefully designed by the Second Prince and his men to keep the monkeys who were dangerous to them away from the political center one by one and weaken their power.

Based on the principle that the enemy of my enemy is my friend, Li Ruoyue decided to help him at the banquet, as long as he did not become the emperor. In his previous life, it seemed that he had been imprisoned in his own guest room and never came out for the rest of his life, so she did not know him very well, so she decided to observe him.

As the first rays of sunlight filtered through the streets of the capital, the residence of Madam Hua and Li Ruoliu was already bustling with activity. Maids shuttled between them, meticulously dressing the two young ladies. Madam Hua's makeup was elegant yet regal, and her dark blue palace dress embroidered with gold accentuated her gentle and dignified demeanor. Li Ruoliu, clad in a pale pink dress, resembled a blooming spring flower, vibrant yet elegant. Mother and daughter exchanged a smile, the encouragement and support in each other's eyes warmer than any words could convey.

As the gates of the mansion slowly opened, a richly decorated carriage came into view. Its body was a deep red, its golden patterns gleaming in the sunlight. Its four snow-white horses, radiant and spirited, seemed to sense the important occasion their owners were about to attend. Surrounded by maids, Li Ruoyue and Madam Hua, Li Ruoliu, slowly stepped into the carriage. The interior was elegantly furnished, its cushions covered with exquisite brocade. Every detail exuded royal luxury and refinement, inspiring awe.

As the carriage moved through the streets of the capital, the scenery on either side resembled a flowing scroll, from bustling markets to tranquil alleyways, from ancient temples to bustling taverns. Each scene bore witness to the capital's prosperity and history. Citizens stopped to gaze at the carriage in admiration. For most, witnessing Madam Hua and Li Ruoliu in person was a rare honor. The carriage's passage was not only a visual feast but also a cultural tour, allowing Li Ruoyue to experience the capital's heritage and the simplicity of its people.

As the carriage gradually approached the imperial palace, the majestic outline of the Meridian Gate gradually became clear. The tall gate, the majestic stone lions, and the red walls on both sides formed a solemn and awe-inspiring picture, as if telling of the royal dignity and glory. When Madam Hua and Li Ruoliu's carriage stopped outside the Meridian Gate and they slowly stepped out, that moment was not only a leap of space, but also a change of status. From this moment on, they would officially step into the world of the royal family.

For Li Ruoyue and Li Ruoliu, entering the imperial palace marks both a journey of glory and a challenge. Here, they will face more complex interpersonal relationships, stricter etiquette, and heavier expectations. But with their wisdom, courage, and perseverance, they will surely write their own legends in the Forbidden City.

The imperial palace has been a symbol of imperial power since ancient times. It not only carries the weight of history but also embodies the majesty and glory of a dynasty. The most well-known is the magnificent complex of the imperial palace, which, with its unparalleled grandeur and exquisite craftsmanship, showcases the royal nobility and majesty to the world.

From afar, the Imperial Palace resembles a sleeping dragon, resting quietly at the north end of Chang'an Avenue. Its red walls and yellow tiles gleam golden in the sunlight, a solemn and mysterious presence. The Meridian Gate, the imperial main gate, stands tall and majestic, flanked by majestic white stone lions, as if guarding the palace's dignity. Passing through the Meridian Gate, one arrives at the Hall of Supreme Harmony, known as the "Crown of the Imperial City," where the emperor held grand ceremonies. Perched atop a three-tiered white marble platform, it exudes a golden splendor and imposing presence, seemingly the most dazzling presence in the universe.

Upon entering the Hall of Supreme Harmony, one is struck by its vastness and exquisite decoration. Dragon and phoenix carvings adorn the pillars and ceiling, symbolizing the supremacy of imperial power. Atop the Golden Dragon Throne, situated in the center of the hall, the emperor gazes down upon his courtiers, a display of unwavering majesty. Outside, the vast square of the Hall of Supreme Harmony, capable of accommodating tens of thousands of people, becomes a stage for displaying power and glory during grand ceremonies.

The imperial palace's meticulous architectural layout adheres to the principle of "front court, rear bedroom." The front section housed the emperor's court affairs, while the rear served as the living quarters for the emperor and his concubines. Each palace, from the magnificent Qianqing Palace to the tranquil Imperial Garden, exudes the dignity and majesty of the imperial family. The central axis, running through the Forbidden City, acts as an invisible bond, connecting these buildings and forming a magnificent canvas of imperial architecture.

As night falls and the last rays of sunset shine on the glazed tiles of the palace, this ancient palace is shrouded in a mysterious veil. At this time, the palace is quiet and solemn, like a sleeping giant.

Night fell, the moon hanging high in the sky. Li Ruoyue wore a pale blue moonlit dress, its hem flowing like a cloud, a golden belt cinched at the waist, accentuating her graceful figure. Her face was delicately made up, and her hair cascaded over her shoulders, dotted with delicate flowers, making her look like a fairy descended to earth.

As the music began, Li Ruoyue gracefully entered the hall, Luzhu following behind. Her beauty captivated the attention of many, especially the talented young men, who cast admiring glances at her. They whispered about the family of this beautiful woman. Some speculated she might be the daughter of a powerful figure, while others believed she must be a woman of exceptional talent.

However, Li Ruoyue's mind wasn't on these people at all. She looked around, searching for Li Ruoliu. Finally, in a corner, she saw Liu Ruyan, smiling and waving at her. The two of them smiled at each other, understanding each other, and then walked to a table and sat down. They savored the delicious food while enjoying the wonderful singing and dancing performance on the stage.

Madam Hua and Li Ruoliu sat at the table next to them. Madam Hua politely greeted the ladies at each table. Li Ruoyue and Liu Ruyan were talking quietly at the table. Liu Ruyan asked angrily, "Why didn't you come to see me? I've been waiting for you for a long time, but you didn't come."

Li Ruoyue said helplessly: "I can't leave because of something." She felt aggrieved. She originally wanted to find Liu Ruyan, but was delayed by some things.

Liu Ruyan pouted and said dissatisfiedly: "Then why couldn't you tell me in advance! You made me wait here for you. Do you think you don't like playing with me?

Li Ruoyue quickly explained: "I'm so sorry, I didn't expect it would take so long. I'll definitely tell you in advance next time. I'll ask you out shopping when I have time."

After hearing this, Liu Ruyan's expression softened slightly and she said, "Okay, I'll forgive you this time. But don't do it again!"

Li Ruoyue nodded, indicating that she understood. The two began to chat about other topics, and the atmosphere gradually became relaxed and cheerful.

Liu Ruyan quietly approached Li Ruoyue and said in a low voice: "Miss Li, do you know that all the princes will attend the palace banquet this year!" Her eyes flashed with excitement, and she seemed very excited about the news.

She then went on to say, "We are now in the palace of Consort De, and the great hall in front is where ministers and princes gather. I have heard that it is very lively there, filled with all kinds of activities and performances. I don't know if you have ever been there, but I would really like to check it out. The scene there must be even more spectacular and unforgettable than here. In addition, there are also envoys from foreign countries who come to pay homage to the emperor and present wonderful dance performances. Oh, I really want to know what the scene must be like!"

It's a shame that we women are trapped in the harem, unable to witness those lively scenes firsthand. There are so many rules here, and it feels so restrictive. I really hope that one day I can break free from these restrictions and personally experience the beauty and prosperity of the outside world.

Li Ruoyue looked at Liu Ruyan calmly, her excitement barely registering in him. If he had a younger body but a heart older than the vicissitudes of life, perhaps he would have shared Liu Ruyan's excitement, but after countless trials and tribulations, his heart had long since calmed down. The imperial palace was vast and bustling, but in reality, it was a turbulent undercurrent, filled with risks and calculations. Only this innocent young girl could find it fascinating. Within this deep palace, even the most intelligent people tread cautiously, trembling with fear, afraid of making a mistake.

Li Ruoyue gently comforted Liu Ruyan's restless heart, "Miss Liu, we must remain calm and not get so excited. This is the Imperial Palace, very different from home. Today is the Mid-Autumn Festival, and we don't ask for a grand celebration. We just hope to avoid making mistakes, return home safely, and not bring trouble to the family. That would be the best. If we can gain the favor of the Imperial Concubine and the Virtuous Concubine, and perform well in front of them, it will bring huge benefits to the family. Therefore, we cannot ignore the family's honor and safety for the sake of watching the excitement!"