The Legend of Concubine Su

Su Jingyue had quietly passed several years since her journey to this ancient world. In this unfamiliar world, she gradually adapted and integrated, beginning a new life. Every morning, as the first rays of sunlight filtered through the window, Su Jingyue would rise and descend upon the garden, meticulously tending the blossoms. Her deft hands wove each delicate blossom into a breathtaking work of art, each one seemingly telling a beautiful story. In the afternoons, she would spend time with the servants of the mansion, patiently teaching them the art of snagging. The simple rope seemed to come alive in her hands, transforming into endless forms, a sight that amazed the servants. In the evenings, she enjoyed her study, reading ancient books and studying ancient culture and history. She was filled with curiosity about the world, eager to learn more about it. In her spare time, she would gather with a few close friends to discuss Yuan Cong's English. It was a timeless way of communication, bringing them unprecedented contentment and peace of mind. Although this language didn't exist in ancient times, Su Jingyue discovered that through this unique method, she could gain a deeper understanding of the world and establish closer connections with others. Although these days were a stark contrast to her past, Su Jingyue felt unusually fulfilled and enriched. She savored each day, deeply experiencing the beauty and wonder of the world. Here, she found her own happiness and peace, becoming a true woman of ancient times.

Yet, whenever the night was quiet and moonlight streamed into her room like water, the longing from a distant time and space would surge into her heart like a tide. Su Jingyue sat by the window, gazing at the bright moon, a surge of indescribable homesickness welled up in her heart. She whispered softly, as if speaking to distant loved ones: "Mom and Dad, are you all doing well in that world I can't reach? I miss you so much. Although I'm doing well here, with new friends and a new life, my attachment to and longing for home have never diminished. Please rest assured, I will take good care of myself, and I hope you can be happy and healthy in the other world." At this point, her eyes couldn't help but moisten, and tears silently slid down, dripping onto her clothes and into her heart that longed to return home.

The sudden cry startled Xiaoru from her slumber. She hurriedly rose, threw on her clothes, and stepped out of bed. She quickly walked over to Su Jingyue and asked, concerned, "Mother, why aren't you asleep yet? Is something bothering you?" Looking into Xiaoru's worried eyes, Su Jingyue forced a smile and gently shook her head. "Nothing serious, I just suddenly miss Mom and Dad." Her words betrayed a hint of helplessness and bitterness, but more so, a deep repression of these emotions. After all, she was from the future, and the longing and loneliness that transcended time and space were beyond Xiaoru's comprehension. Therefore, she could only bury these feelings deep within her heart, enduring them alone.

The morning sun gently filtered through the gauze curtains, spilling into the small kitchen like a golden stream, casting a warm and pleasant glow over the entire space. Su Jingyue, the gentle and virtuous imperial concubine, was dressed in a simple and elegant dress, the color of which was like the morning mist, soft and hazy. Her sleeves fluttered, as if dancing in the breeze.

Her top was a pale blue gown, with delicate white floral patterns embroidered around the collar and cuffs, resembling pear blossoms in full bloom, elegant and pure. The gown was soft and smooth, caressing her skin like a spring breeze.

She wore a moon-white long skirt with a delicate ruffle embroidered on the hem. As she walked, the ruffle swayed gently, as if rippling in the water. The length of the skirt was just right, showing her dignity and elegance without losing her agility.

A pale pink ribbon tied around her waist, like the sunset glow on the horizon, added a touch of soft color to her outfit. A small and exquisite jade pendant was also hung on the ribbon, which shimmered with a warm light in the sun, complementing her temperament.

Her hair was pulled up high, adorned with several exquisite hairpins, inlaid with pearls and gemstones, gleaming with dazzling light. Her face was lightly powdered, her eyebrows as dark as distant black, her eyes as clear as autumn water, her lips as rosy as cherries. Her smile was as captivating as a blooming spring flower. Her figure was lithe and graceful, and every movement was imbued with the softness and delicacy of a woman.

Her eyes are focused and affectionate, as if she were treating a precious work of art, meticulously crafting each small dessert. The mango sago pudding exudes a refreshing fruity aroma, while the distinct sago grains have a smooth texture. Under her deft hands, the two blend perfectly, leaving you salivating. The taro sago cake showcases a beautiful combination of dense taro paste and chewy sago, each bite a true temptation for the taste buds.

On this quiet morning, the small kitchen was filled with sweet aroma. Su Jingyue created delicious little desserts with her own hands, which not only satisfied people's taste buds, but also conveyed her love for life and care for others.

Xiaoru, Su Jingyue's personal maid, stood quietly by, her eyes revealing deep admiration and sincere praise for Su Jingyue's superb cooking skills. She said softly, "Your Majesty, your cooking skills are truly amazing. If you can pass these cooking skills on to the imperial kitchen, then the emperor and the sisters in the harem will have the honor of tasting such delicious dishes." Hearing this, Su Jingyue raised her head slightly, a faint smile bloomed on her face, and a barely perceptible cunning glint flashed in her eyes. She smiled and responded, "Xiaoru, your idea is not bad, but today, let's just enjoy this sweet time that belongs only to us."

Then, Su Jingyue offered a new suggestion: "Xiaoru, why don't you accompany me to present these carefully crafted dim sum to the Emperor? Let him have a chance to taste my craftsmanship." Xiaoru immediately responded respectfully, "Yes, Your Majesty." Together, they lifted the exquisite basket of dim sum and walked lightly towards the Emperor's chambers. When they reached the door, they handed the basket of dim sum to the eunuchs waiting outside, instructing them to convey this heartfelt gift to the Emperor.

The Emperor sat in his chambers, brush in hand, meticulously reviewing a mountain of memorials. His expression was serious and focused, yet a hint of fatigue could be seen between his brows. Just then, a young eunuch quietly entered the chamber, carrying a basket and respectfully addressing the Emperor, "Your Majesty, Empress Su has specially prepared a small dessert for you. Please enjoy it."

Upon hearing this, the emperor's eyes flashed with surprise. He immediately put down his red brush and took the basket. He lifted the cloth covering the basket and saw a colorful and fragrant dessert inside. A warm feeling welled up in his heart. He turned to the eunuch and said, "The Imperial Concubine is so thoughtful. Thank her for me." The eunuch quickly replied, "Yes, Your Majesty."

The emperor savored the small dessert made by Su Jingyue, and every bite made him feel Su Jingyue's delicacy and care. He thought to himself, such a woman is not only beautiful, but also clever, gentle and virtuous. She is truly a treasure given to him by God!