The new emperor, Li Zhi—Emperor Gaozong—had known her during his father's reign.
Whether through affection, admiration, or political calculation, he summoned her back from the convent.
This decision shocked the court.
Confucian morality considered it improper for a son to take a former concubine of his father. Ministers whispered. Moralists protested.
But Gaozong ignored them.
Wu returned not as a powerless nun—but as a rising consort.
She quickly understood palace dynamics:
The official Empress Wang lacked the emperor's affection.
Consort Xiao was another favored rival.
The harem was divided into factions.
Wu Zhao positioned herself carefully.