Rebirth: Phoenix Riding the Ninth Heaven

Furthermore, soon after a new emperor ascended the throne, historiographers would begin compiling a diary of his daily life, meticulously recording his words and deeds and assessing his merits and demerits. These historical records not only provided valuable firsthand information for future research but also served as a crucial means for the new emperor to shape his image and consolidate his historical standing.

Beyond the borders of a nation, the crown prince's ascension to the throne also attracted significant attention from surrounding nations and neighboring countries. Envoys from various countries would arrive bearing valuable gifts as a gesture of friendship, observing the new emperor's diplomatic strategy and assessing future trends. The new emperor would often demonstrate an open and inclusive diplomatic stance by receiving envoys and signing treaties, striving to maintain peaceful and stable relations with neighboring countries and creating a favorable external environment for domestic development.

Those who appeared to be seeking peace actually harbored ulterior motives, their eyes filled with calculation and greed, making people uneasy. Some, while claiming to be seeking peace, were actually seeking to ascertain the true state of affairs within the court, seeking to exploit opportunities. The presence of these individuals made people nervous and wary, as they could pose a threat to the court at any moment.

However, these things were just minor obstacles for the Crown Prince to smoothly take over the imperial power. However, on the second day after the Crown Prince successfully ascended the throne, he suddenly fell ill in his bedroom and was unable to get out of bed.

Crown Prince Shen Yuanzhang, having successfully assumed the imperial throne, rushed to his father's chambers the next morning after leaving court. Upon entering, he saw his father lying frail and haggard on the bed, his face as pale as paper, his lips devoid of their former rosy glow, his eyes closed as if in deep sleep. Shen Yuanzhang's heart was heavy, a wave of sadness washing over him. He slowly approached the bedside, silently gazing at his father's face, his eyes filled with concern and worry. He gently held his father's hand, feeling the faint beat of his pulse, and silently prayed for his father's speedy recovery.

The sun gradually rose higher, and the sunlight poured into the palace through the windows, illuminating every corner. The prince stayed in his father's palace, quietly waiting, waiting for his father to wake up. Time passed minute by minute, until it was almost noon when his father finally woke up. The prince hurried forward and shook his father's hand tightly, his eyes full of concern and worry. He asked softly, "Father, how are you feeling? Are you feeling well?"

At this moment, the imperial physicians gathered around and carefully observed his father's condition. They were tense and focused, hoping to detect any abnormalities in time and take appropriate treatment measures. The prince was extremely anxious and kept asking the imperial physicians about his father's condition.

After a thorough examination, the imperial physicians reported to the Crown Prince, "Your Highness, His Majesty's condition has improved, but further observation and care are still required. We will do our utmost to ensure this." Upon hearing this news, the Crown Prince breathed a sigh of relief, but his worries remained. He knew his father's health was of vital importance to the entire nation, so he decided to personally care for him and see him through to a swift recovery. Every day I panic, Shen Yuanzhang's imperial power becomes more secure.

In the days that followed, the Crown Prince remained by his father's side day and night after court, meticulously caring for his daily needs. He regularly administered medicine, cleansed his body, and provided massages to help him maintain a positive attitude. He also actively communicated with the imperial physicians to understand his father's condition and adjust his treatment plan accordingly.

Five days passed like this, and Emperor Qian was able to get out of bed and walk around smoothly. One day, sunlight streamed through the window into the bedroom, illuminating Emperor Qian's face. He sat quietly on his bed, his eyes revealing a hint of emotion and relief.

Emperor Qian silently watched his son care for him daily in his chambers, a surge of indescribable emotion welling up in his heart. He thought back to the past, the efforts and sacrifices he had made for his country. Now, seeing his son so filial and sensible, he felt immensely relieved.

Emperor Qian knew that the transfer of power was crucial for a ruler. He decided to hand over imperial power to the crown prince because he believed he was capable of shouldering this responsibility. This was not only a sign of trust in the crown prince, but also a sign of hope for the future of the entire dynasty.

However, despite Emperor Qian's decision, he still harbored a lingering worry. He feared the Crown Prince would become too focused on taking care of himself and neglect the management of the court. After all, a country needs a strong leader to maintain stability and development.

After a moment's contemplation, Emperor Qian decided to speak with the Crown Prince. He hoped the Crown Prince would understand that while family ties were important, the interests of the nation were even more crucial. He hoped the Crown Prince would take care of himself while also remembering his responsibilities and mission.

Emperor Qian summoned the Crown Prince and frankly expressed his thoughts and concerns. The Crown Prince, deeply moved by his father's good intentions, pledged to strike a balance between family and state and to live up to his father's expectations.

Emperor Qian nodded and smiled with satisfaction. He knew the Crown Prince understood his intentions and was confident he could serve as a successful emperor. He looked forward to the Crown Prince leading the dynasty to a more glorious future.

Emperor Qian looked at the Crown Prince, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction and relief. He patted the Crown Prince on the shoulder and said firmly, "I have high hopes for you. I believe you are capable of inheriting the throne and governing this country well." Then, Emperor Qian frowned again and shared his concerns with the Crown Prince: "Although I have abdicated, my heart remains with the empire. Currently, the situation in the Former Dynasty is not stable, and I need your full attention to address it. Furthermore, there must be no unrest in the harem, otherwise it will affect the stability of the Former Dynasty."

The Crown Prince listened respectfully to Emperor Qian's teachings, a hint of confusion in his eyes. He frowned slightly and asked, "Father, I have some understanding of the affairs of the former dynasty, but the management of the harem is a bit confusing. Why do you say that the former dynasty and the harem are one?"

Emperor Qian smiled and explained, "Crown Prince, the affairs of the harem may seem trivial, but they are crucial to the stability of the imperial court. The concubines in the harem come from various families, and their status and influence cannot be underestimated. If you can properly handle harem affairs, you can win the support of the major families and thus consolidate the rule of the previous dynasty. Conversely, if chaos arises in the harem, it will inevitably cause dissatisfaction among the major families and may even lead to civil unrest. Therefore, you must attach great importance to the management of the harem and ensure its stability and harmony."

The Crown Prince suddenly realized how crucial matters concerning the harem were. He looked at the Emperor gratefully and said, "Thank you, Father, for your guidance. I understand. I will work hard to manage the harem and ensure stability for both the former and the harem." The Emperor nodded and encouraged him, "Good boy, I believe you can do it. Go ahead and do your best!"

Since husband and wife are one, you will be in charge of the affairs of the front court, and your harem will be managed by your wife, Wang Yuyan. She was personally chosen for you by your father.

You must treat her well, as her family has contributed greatly to the founding of this kingdom alongside your father! Their loyalty to the court depends entirely on your attitude towards the daughter of the royal family. Therefore, you must not disappoint them and cherish and care for your wife with all your heart!

Emperor Qian pondered for a moment before looking up at the Crown Prince and saying, "My son, the ceremony to confer the title of Empress Kun will be held in five days. The daughters of the loyal officials in the court will be canonized and promoted. It's time to add some new people to the harem."

His tone was calm, but his eyes revealed a decisiveness that came from careful consideration.

The Crown Prince stood respectfully by, listening to his father's words, a complex mix of emotions welling up in his heart. He knew full well that this was an important ceremony, one that not only concerned the order and stability of the palace, but also the future of the country.

Five days later, the palace will usher in a grand celebration, at which time the new Queen will officially ascend the throne, and the families of those loyal courtiers will receive due titles and promotions. This decision is both a recognition of past achievements and an expectation for the future.

The Crown Prince nodded silently in agreement. He knew that the ceremony of enthroning Empress Kun was more than just a ritual; it was also a reshuffle and rebalancing of power. At this crucial moment, every decision could affect the structure of the court and the fate of the nation.

As time went on, the palace became bustling with activity. Officials from the Ministry of Rites meticulously prepared every detail for the ceremony of conferring the title of Empress Kun, ensuring everything went smoothly. Meanwhile, the chosen daughters of the imperial family began rigorous etiquette training to prepare them for their new roles.

The entire palace was filled with an atmosphere of tension and anticipation, and everyone was making final preparations for the grand ceremony.

[Gengshen, November 22, the first year of Emperor Qing of Dashun]

By the Will of Heaven

The emperor issued an edict:

I believe that the virtue of heaven and earth is vast, and the principles of yin and yang are eternal. Since ancient times, emperors have always been accompanied by virtuous women, assisting with domestic affairs, serving as role models for the nation, and contributing to the well-being of the state and a model for the family. Today, our dynasty enjoys peace and prosperity, and the nation is at peace. This is due to the protection of our ancestors and the assistance of the six imperial concubines, ensuring prosperity both within and without.

I have personally reviewed and carefully selected the Crown Princess Wang as our Empress. She is gentle and respectful, outstanding in talent and appearance, filial and fraternal, and of excellent virtue. She is a role model for the six concubines and a model for the world.

According to the established ritual system, I hereby issue an imperial decree to confer upon Crown Princess Wang the title of Empress Kun, honoring her as the official consort and acknowledging the royal family's dignity. From this day forward, all palace affairs shall be governed by Empress Kun's decree. I am willing to work with Empress Kun to shoulder the responsibilities of governing the country, both internally and externally, diligently striving for lasting peace and prosperity for all.

The day Empress Kun ascends to the throne will be a day of national celebration. I command all the six ministries, nine ministers, and all internal and external departments to diligently fulfill their duties and ensure the smooth inauguration of the Empress. At the same time, all the subjects of the Qing Dynasty, throughout the land, should be informed of this event, celebrate together, and share in the joy of this prosperous era.

This is it.

November 22, Gengshen, the first year of the Hongguang reign