Where the Phoenix Perches: The Emperor’s Beloved, Sensible Empress

On the day Liu Yunshu came of age, her childhood friend, the young general Lu Zhao, asked her with red-rimmed eyes, “Can’t you not marry the crown prince?” She smiled and pried his fingers loose. “It’s been ten years. Every time, you say you’ll marry me next time.”

Everyone said she was “so sensible.” Her father wanted her to bring glory to the family. Her stepmother wanted her to give way to her younger sister. Her brother wanted her to support his wife’s family. Even Lu Zhao’s promises always came after military affairs and his family. All she wanted was a home and someone’s unwavering devotion.

Then Crown Prince Li Rongshi held out his hand to her. He didn’t ask her to be “sensible” or make her wait. He offered her clear protection and the status of an imperial consort.

On her wedding day, Lu Zhao, covered in blood, blocked the palace gates.

On the night the new emperor ascended the throne, he knelt in the snow and offered up his life’s military achievements. “I am willing to give up everything in exchange for her freedom.”

But her emperor husband tightened his grip on her hand and said to the world, “Who are you to save my empress?”