Legends of the Flourishing Tang Dynasty

In the second year of the Sacred Calendar of Wu Zhou, the empire enjoyed favorable weather, abundant harvests, ample clothing and food, and peace along its borders; there were no wars, and the people all lived and worked in contentment. It was, in every sense, a golden age of peace and prosperity.

Yet beneath this tranquil surface, dark currents swirled. Nearly a decade had passed since the Empress Wu Zetian changed the nation's name from Tang to Zhou, but loyal and upright officials within the court still devoted themselves tirelessly to restoring the Li Tang dynasty. Many other courtiers, however, stood fiercely in defense of the Wu Zhou regime. Thus, the various bureaucratic factions within the court vied for power and advantage, employing every possible stratagem, and their struggles grew ever more intense. For a time, the ancient capital of Chang'an was shrouded in intrigue and treachery.

Deep into the night, within the grand and towering imperial palace of Daming Palace, all was quiet save for the patrolling guards standing in formation. Most had already retired for the night, leaving only the rows of wind lanterns hanging from the eaves to cast dim and wavering light across the corridors, their shadows flickering in the evening breeze.

Within the Hall of Han Yuan, lamps still burned bright. Seated regally upon the dragon couch was a dignified and noblewoman: Empress Wu Zetian of Wu Zhou herself. Standing at her side, hands respectfully folded, was the beautiful Lady Shangguan Wan’er, famed throughout the land as the "female prime m