Love and choices across time and space

The Tang Dynasty Imperial Palace in spring resembles a vibrant, colorful painting. Golden sunlight gently filters down upon the towering palace roofs and exquisitely carved and painted buildings, casting a shimmering brilliance. In the Imperial Gardens, blossoms teem with vibrant colors, vying for attention. Delicate peonies exude elegance, tender peach blossoms radiate in their splendor, and pure white pear blossoms offer a refreshing and elegant beauty. These intertwine to form a sea of ​​blooms. A gentle breeze sweeps by, petals falling like snow, filling the air with an intoxicating fragrance, as if even the breeze is imbued with the sweet scent of flowers.

In the center of the Imperial Garden stood a spacious and magnificent pavilion, shrouded in a dreamlike atmosphere, draped in veils of light and gauze. Within, a grand poetry gathering was underway. Scholars and dignitaries from across the Tang Dynasty, dressed in magnificent attire, gathered there. Some spoke attentively, others whispered quietly, their faces brimming with anticipation and excitement.

Li Yifeng wore a moon-white gown today, crafted from the finest silk, its texture silky smooth to the touch, its delicate texture shimmering softly in the sunlight. The collar and cuffs were meticulously embroidered with cloud patterns, outlined in silver thread. The design was refined yet elegant, showcasing his unique taste. He wore a pale blue belt around his waist, made of the finest brocade, flexible and textured. It was inlaid with a piece of warm Hetian jade pendant, pure in color and delicate in texture. It swayed gently with his steps, producing a crisp, melodious sound. His hair was tied up high, secured with a white jade hairpin, translucent and shimmering like mutton fat. A few strands of hair playfully fell from his bun, gently swaying in the breeze, adding a touch of uninhibited elegance to his demeanor.

Li Yifeng's face was remarkably handsome, his sword-like eyebrows slanting into his temples, as black as ink, like two sharp swords, revealing a resolute and courageous spirit. His deep eyes shone like stars, their gaze brimming with determination and intelligence, as if they could discern the mysteries of the world. His high nose bridge rose like a mountain peak, his nostrils twitching slightly, as if breathing in the fragrance of the garden. His thin lips curled slightly, a faint smile radiating a spring breeze. His posture was tall and slender, as straight as a pine tree. Every step was firm and powerful, and his every gesture exuded an innate confidence and composure.

At this moment, his emotions were like the turbulent sea, a mixture of nervousness and excitement. Since accidentally traveling to this era, he had been struggling to adapt to this unfamiliar world, finding his place. And Princess Changle, that fairy-like, beautiful and noble woman, had left a deep impression on him since that fleeting glimpse in the palace. He knew that this poetry gathering was the perfect opportunity for him to showcase his talents, attract the princess's attention, and be the first step in his pursuit of love.

Princess Changle, surrounded by a group of palace maids, slowly approached, like the moon surrounded by stars. She wore a pink palace gown, the brocade texture smooth and delicate, the hem cascading like waves. The peonies embroidered on it were lifelike, each one embroidered with gold thread, shimmering dazzlingly in the sunlight, a display of luxury and nobility. Around her waist was a white silk ribbon, made of light silk and embroidered with exquisite patterns. The patterns, woven with multicolored silk thread, resembled clouds on the horizon, fluttering in the wind like dancing butterflies. Hanging from the ribbon were a string of crystal-clear jade pendants, carved from the finest mutton-fat jade. The round, smooth jade pendants clashed with each other, creating a crisp, melodious sound that seemed to speak of her nobility and elegance.

The princess's hair was pulled high in a bun, piling like a cloud atop her head, adorned with a golden hairpin and a pearl flower. The hairpin was made of pure gold, studded with pearls and gemstones, and its tassels were strung with tiny pearls. They swayed gently, shimmering with a dazzling light, like stars in the night sky. The pearl flower, inlaid with pearls and gemstones, radiated a soft glow, complementing her fair skin. Her skin was as white as snow, crystal clear, as if it could be broken by a touch of a breath. Her eyebrows were as black as distant ink, and the slightly raised eyebrows were playful and lively. Her eyes were like a pool of autumn water, clear and bright, and her fleeting glance seemed to be able to captivate the heart. Her lips were naturally red, and the slightly raised corners of her mouth were filled with a gentle smile, which made people feel like being bathed in spring breeze.

The poetry reading began with the melodious sound of stringed instruments. The music, lamenting and lingering, seemed to transport everyone to a dreamlike wonderland. Everyone gathered in the pavilions and terraces of the Imperial Garden, tables laden with fine wine, delicacies, brushes, inkstones, and paper. Fine porcelain held delicacies, emitting an alluring aroma.

First, a highly respected university scholar rose to recite poetry. He wore a deep purple robe embroidered with cloud patterns and cranes, a testament to his noble status. His face was solemn, his gaze deep, and his beard flowing, giving him a certain sage-like air. He cleared his throat and recited in a resonant, magnetic voice: "In the prosperous Tang Dynasty, spring fills the garden, and blossoms bloom like brocade against the azure sky. The emperor's grace is boundless, benefiting the four seas, and the people enjoy boundless happiness and well-being." His verses, filled with praise for the Tang Dynasty's prosperity and the emperor's praise for him, echoed in the air for a long time.

Everyone applauded, the atmosphere warm and harmonious. "The Grand Secretary is truly a literary giant! This poem is magnificent and truly admirable!" one official exclaimed. "Yes, yes, only a Grand Secretary could write such verses," the crowd echoed.

Li Yifeng sat quietly by the side, glass in hand, seemingly savoring the wine, but in reality, he was silently composing his own poem. His gaze occasionally swept over the crowd around him, observing their expressions and reactions, trying to understand their thoughts. He knew that in such an occasion, one needed not only outstanding talent but also the ability to cater to the public's preferences in order to stand out.

Finally, it was Li Yifeng's turn. He took a deep breath, slowly rose, and bowed to the princess and the others. His movements were graceful and fluid, as if they had been honed through countless trials. Then, he spoke aloud, "The spring breeze touches the green willows, and the fragrance of flowers fills the imperial garden. I wish to win the heart of one person, and to be with him till we grow old together." His voice was clear and powerful, like a clear mountain spring, echoing in the air.

At these words, everyone was stunned for a moment, then burst into exclamations. The poem was concise and clear, yet filled with deep emotion, moving everyone. The princess's attention was instantly drawn to him. She sat up slightly straighter and carefully examined Li Yifeng. He stood tall and straight, his demeanor extraordinary, his eyes radiating determination and confidence. A hint of curiosity and admiration welled up in her.

Li Yifeng felt the princess's gaze, and a surge of excitement surged within him. He raised his eyes to gaze at the princess, and the moment their eyes met, time seemed to stand still. The princess's gaze was as clear as water, filled with a hint of tenderness and inquiry. Li Yifeng's heartbeat quickened. He tried to remain calm, his lips curling upwards in a confident smile.

The princess nodded slightly, her lips curled up into a barely perceptible smile. This smile, like a flower blooming in spring, was so gorgeous and dazzling that it instantly dissipated Li Yifeng's nervousness.

Inspired, Li Yifeng recited several more poems, some bold and some graceful, each showcasing his extraordinary talent. "The bright moon shines on the past and present, the gentle breeze soothes the heart. My longing for you is endless, and I search for you in my dreams." "Peach blossoms reflect the two of us, our love fills the universe. Hand in hand, through thick and thin, we'll spend the morning and evening together."

Each poem drew thunderous applause from the crowd. The princess listened intently, her eyes revealing admiration and approval. Her gaze remained fixed on Li Yifeng, rising and falling with each verse, sometimes frowning slightly as if pondering the deeper meaning of the poem, and sometimes smiling brightly as if moved by the emotion expressed.

After the poetry gathering, the princess summoned Li Yifeng to her side. Respectfully, Li Yifeng approached the princess and saluted again. His heart pounded like a drum, his hands trembling with nervousness, but his gaze remained firm and fervent.

The princess said softly, "Your poems are unique and refreshing." Her voice was as clear and melodious as a yellow oriole singing in a valley, and seemed to carry a magical power that made Li Yifeng intoxicated.

Li Yifeng hurriedly said, "Princess, you are too kind. It is my honor to be appreciated by you." His voice trembled slightly, but his tone was full of sincerity and gratitude.

The princess smiled slightly, her eyes sparkling with curiosity, and said, "I am very curious about you. I wonder who your teacher is?"

Li Yifeng thought for a moment and replied, "I am just self-taught. I like to read and write poetry to express my feelings."

A hint of admiration flashed in the princess' eyes: "In that case, you are a talented person." She gently fiddled with the handkerchief in her hand, but her eyes never left Li Yifeng.

The two chatted happily until, before they knew it, the sun had set, casting its afterglow on them, casting a golden glow. The surrounding palace maids and eunuchs tactfully stood at a distance, not daring to disturb them.

Li Yifeng looked at the princess's beautiful face and felt an urge in his heart to express his feelings completely, but he knew that the rules in the palace were strict, so he could only bury this emotion deep in his heart.

The princess seemed to sense his feelings, a blush appeared on her face, and she said softly, "It's getting late, you should go back first."

Li Yifeng bowed and slowly withdrew. He looked back every step of the way, his eyes full of reluctance.

Back at his residence, Li Yifeng's heart remained restless for a long time. He sat by the window, gazing at the bright moon outside, his mind racing. "The princess is so beautiful and noble. I must work hard to be worthy of her favor." He vowed silently, a determined glint in his eyes.

Meanwhile, the princess returned to her chambers, her thoughts racing. "That Li Yifeng, he's incredibly talented and has a unique temperament. He's unlike anyone I've ever met." A blush crept into the princess's face as she pondered this. She sighed softly and climbed into bed, but tossed and turned, unable to fall asleep.

In the days that followed, Li Yifeng would often encounter the princess in the palace. Sometimes on the garden paths, sometimes at the entrance to the library. Each time they met, they would greet each other, their eyes meeting and affection growing.

Once, Li Yifeng encountered the princess in a garden. She was strolling alone among the flowers, holding a beautiful rose in her hand. She was wearing a long, pale green dress, which fluttered gently in the breeze, like a fairy descending from the earth.

Li Yifeng stepped forward, bowed and said, "Princess, how are you?"

The princess smiled and said, "No need to be so polite. The flowers are in full bloom, what do you think?" Her voice was soft and melodious, like the song of a nightingale.

Li Yifeng replied, "The flowers are beautiful, but not even one ten-thousandth as beautiful as the princess's." His eyes were full of sincerity and admiration.

The princess scolded him, "You are becoming more and more talkative." But her face was filled with a joyful smile.

The two of them walked side by side among the flowers, the breeze blowing, bringing bursts of floral fragrance. Li Yifeng cautiously glanced at the princess, only to see a smile on her face, and he couldn't help but feel happy.

Another time, Li Yifeng met the princess in the library. The princess was looking for an ancient book, her brows slightly furrowed, and she looked a little anxious.

Li Yifeng walked forward and asked softly, "Princess, are you looking for this book?" As he spoke, he took out the ancient book that the princess wanted from the bookshelf.

The princess said gratefully, "Thank you very much. If it weren't for you, I don't know when I would have found it."

Li Yifeng said, "It is my great honor to be able to serve the princess."

During these brief moments together, their feelings gradually grew stronger. However, due to the strict rules of the palace, they had to be cautious in their interactions, not wanting to be noticed by others.

On a quiet evening, Li Yifeng strolled alone in the courtyard. Moonlight shone like water, casting a shadow on his slender figure. He looked up at the bright moon in the sky, longing for the princess. Suddenly, a dark figure flashed past him. He turned alertly, only to discover it was the princess's personal maid.

The maid lowered her voice and said, "Master Li, the princess invites you."

Li Yifeng was shocked and followed the palace maid to the princess's bedroom.

The princess's bedroom was decorated extremely luxuriously, with flickering candlelight illuminating the treasures in the room. The princess sat by the window, the candlelight illuminating her beautiful face, making her look particularly moving.

Li Yifeng saluted and said, "Princess."

The princess stood up, walked in front of him and said softly, "Yifeng, I..." She hesitated to speak, and a blush appeared on her face.

Li Yifeng looked at the princess, his heart filled with love. He mustered up the courage to say, "Princess, the world can bear witness to my feelings for you."

The princess nodded slightly, tears glistening in her eyes: "I know your feelings, but this palace..."

Li Yifeng held the princess's hand and said, "Princess, don't worry. I will always be by your side no matter what."

At this moment, there was a sound of footsteps outside the door. The two were startled, and Li Yifeng quickly hid behind the screen.

It turned out to be the Queen who came to visit the Princess. After exchanging a few pleasantries, the Queen left.

Li Yifeng walked out from behind the screen, and the two smiled at each other, their feelings for each other becoming more firm.

However, their love journey is full of ups and downs and challenges. The powerful people in the palace learned of Li Yifeng and the princess's relationship and began to slander them to the emperor.

A powerful minister in the court said, "Your Majesty, Li Yifeng is just a commoner. How dare he covet the princess? This is truly disrespectful!"

The emperor frowned, looking displeased: "Is this really true?"

Another minister echoed, "Your Majesty, the princess is of noble status. How can she be involved with such a lowly person? This is a disgrace to the royal family!"

The emperor fell into deep thought, his expression growing increasingly gloomy.

The emperor was furious and ordered the princess to forbid any contact with Li Yifeng.

When the princess learned about this, she was heartbroken and locked herself in her bedroom all day, refusing to eat or drink.

"Yifeng and I truly love each other, why is my father so cruel?" The princess burst into tears.

The palace maids tried to comfort her, but it was of no avail.

Li Yifeng was also in trouble, but he did not give up. He looked for opportunities everywhere to prove his sincerity and talent to the emperor.

At a palace banquet, Li Yifeng once again demonstrated his extraordinary talent. He wrote a magnificent article on the spot, which attracted the admiration of everyone.

The emperor began to re-evaluate this relationship, and was eventually moved by their true feelings and acquiesced to their relationship.

From then on, the love between Li Yifeng and Princess Changle blossomed in the palace and became a story that has been passed down through the ages.