Following the death of their father, the twins and their mother became vagrants. They travelled to Chang'an, the capital, where they were taken in by a servant, Zhao Linsuo from the household of Princess Yang'a. They adopted his family name. Yizhu and Hede grew up to be women of great beauty and grace. As their natural father had nurtured their musical talent and dancing skills, they were able to work as dancing girls in the princess' residence.
Dance is a magical art which can dazzle, enchant and awe the audience.
Zhao Feiyan and her sister made full use of their charms to gain the undivided attention of Emperor Cheng. After Emperor Cheng had cast out his former favourite, Zhao Feiyan became his empress and her younger sister was given the title Zhaoyi, making her a concubine of the first rank. It is said that for the next decade, the emperor favoured only Zhao Feiyan and her sister. Emperor Cheng died suddenly as a result of his dissipated lifestyle. His younger brother, Emperor Al accended the throne, and he too became besotted with the sisters.