A magnificent structure standing tall amidst the bustling city, adorned with intricately carved pillars and vibrant paintings. The imperial observatory, with its towering domed roof and intricate celestial instruments, was a gateway to the heavens. It housed astronomers and scholars, tirelessly studying the stars and planets, unraveling the mysteries of the universe. The air was filled with the excitement of discovery and the hum of ancient knowledge being passed down through generations.
"Look!" exclaimed a young astronomer as he pointed to a particular star amidst the sea of constellations, his silver embroidered robe shimmering in the moonlight. His youthful appearance hinted at his recent employment as a gifted eunuch scholar in astronomy.
All eyes turned toward the night sky, captivated by the auspicious sight. "The Phoenix star shines brightly," the astronomers murmured in awe.
Little did they know, their observation marked the imminent birth of an empress.
The imperial fortune-teller gazed at the sky from the window on the upper floor of the residence, his wise countenance and profound knowledge evident. Absently stroking his goatee, he contemplated the unfolding events.
While the news of a great empress's imminent birth brought joy to the empire, the fortune-teller sensed an air of mystery and impending misfortune. Unbeknownst to him, history was about to take an unexpected turn…
A shriek filled the chamber, swiftly followed by the cries of a newborn. his handsome features etched with concern and relief. f. Blood stained his robes as he sat and gazed at his sweat-drenched wife, who was filled with anticipation to see their child.
On the chilly winter night, a beautiful maiden, heavy with child, paced anxiously within her residence. Her features bore a resemblance to the emperor, yet possessed a softer, more feminine allure. She came to an abrupt halt as she noticed an imperial guard making his way towards her.
"Where is he?" she demanded impatiently.
"He is en route to the palace, Your Highness," he replied, clasping his hands nervously.
A few minutes later, the imperial fortune teller arrived, bowing respectfully with clasped hands.
"Greetings, Your Highness, Princess Han Cufen," he said humbly.
Princess Han Cufen nodded nonchalantly, gesturing for him to join her at a table. The maids promptly poured them tea, she glanced while her right maid nodded in comprehension.
" Excuse her Highness," she said, asserting her authority.
The rest of the staff left, leaving behind the princess, the imperial fortune teller, and the two personal maids.
As the fortune teller sipped his tea intermittently, the princess observed him intently.
"What do you think of the tea?" she inquired.
"Delightful," he responded, flashing a smile.
"Longjing tea is a famous type of green tea. It is primarily grown in the West Lake region of Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. The tea leaves are pan-fired to halt oxidation, resulting in a distinct flat, narrow shape." she paused for a moment before continuing.
"Longjing tea is highly prized for its refreshing taste and fragrant aroma. It has a delicate, sweet, and nutty flavor with a slight vegetal note. The tea is often brewed in glass teaware to appreciate the leaves' elegant shape and the tea's pale yellow-green color. It is considered one of the finest green teas in our province."
"Unless..." she trailed off, her voice barely a whisper. "Targeted with a lethal poison."
Zhihui's hands trembled as he dropped his cup in shock, his face turning pale. He gasped for air, his breaths heavy and rapid. Desperately, he pleaded with the princess.
"Please! Spare me. I'll do anything."
Princess Han Cufen cast a glance at him, her voice soft but resolute.
"You have one chance to prove your loyalty."
"The Queen is in labor, with the rise of the Phoenix star I presume it will be a girl."
Tell His Majesty that the child poses a grave threat to the imperial family, destined to bring chaos and destruction. Her life must be cut short."
"My child's future ascension to the throne must be safeguarded without any disruptions or obstacles," she said, her delicate face transforming into a gentle and captivating smile.
Shock coursed through Zhuhui as he observed the princess's seemingly gentle and refined demeanor, contrasting sharply with her devious and cunning intentions. "She has managed to maintain this charade remarkably," he contemplated.
"Follow my instructions precisely, or the world will mourn the loss of one of its esteemed imperial officials," she emphasized, her expression filled with remorse.
She let out a sigh of disappointment, recognizing the potential consequences. "It would truly be a pity," she lamented.
"And of course, I possess the antidote, provided you comply with my demands," she added, cunningly.
Little did the scheming princess know, the destiny of the entire empire hinged upon a solitary falsehood
"The air grew heavy with the scent of blood and sweat as the empress, leaning on the headboard, anxiously awaited to hold her baby. The midwives exchanged unusual and astonished glances, their reactions hinting at something mysterious. With hesitance, the head midwife presented the child to his majesty.
Their child possessed an exceptional beauty, with stunning features, silvery white hair, and eyes that gleamed with a golden light. Her skin, akin to the softest shade of caramel, radiated a smoothness reminiscent of polished jade.
The sudden revelation left them stunned and alarmed, unsure of what to make of the situation. The emperor, in a mix of confusion and concern, urgently commanded the presence of the imperial fortune-teller.
The fortune-teller hurriedly made his way, the weight of the situation weighing heavily on him. Going against fate was a dangerous gamble, but his own life and freedom were at stake.
Against all odds, he burst in unannounced, as he stood before the child, trembling with fear and anticipation, the fortune-teller felt his strength wane. The truth was undeniable, and he knew that defying fate would have grave consequences
In a state of utter disbelief, he uttered a single word, laden with a sense of foreboding,
"Cursed!"