The Legend of Concubine Su

Time flies, and before we knew it, the Emperor's birthday had arrived. Filled with respect for the Emperor, the Empress and Su Jingyue decided to meticulously prepare a spectacular celebration for this special day. The Empress led the charge, personally leading the palace maids. Armed with brooms and rags, the maids meticulously swept every corner of the palace, leaving it looking brand new and filled with a fresh, pleasant atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Su Jingyue took a different approach, choosing a more delicate and thoughtful way to express her feelings. She quietly retreated to the tranquility of her chamber, which housed a small, exquisitely decorated kitchen. Dressed in a simple, elegant palace dress, her sleeves gently rolled up, Su Jingyue exuded both dignity and grace, exuding a touch of friendliness and ease. Standing quietly before the stove, a gentle smile on her face, she began preparing a unique gift: a birthday cake and longevity noodles.

Although Su Jingyue wasn't particularly experienced in pastry making, she put her heart and soul into every step. She carefully stirred the batter, ensuring it was evenly mixed, then slowly poured it into the pan, tapping the sides gently to remove any air bubbles. Finally, she carefully placed the pan in the preheated oven and waited patiently for the cake to bake.

Time passed minute by minute, and when the cake in the oven gradually turned golden and emitted a mouth-watering aroma, Su Jingyue's face showed a satisfied smile. She knew that her first step had been successful.

Next, she began preparing the longevity noodles. She kneaded the dough until it was extremely soft, then rolled it into thin sheets with a rolling pin. She then cut it into long, thin noodles. These noodles seemed to represent the emperor's long life, and this bowl of longevity noodles also contained Su Jingyue's deepest blessings.

After the water boiled, Su Jingyue gently placed the noodles in the pot and cooked them until cooked through. She removed the noodles and placed them in a delicate bowl, adding the delicious broth and garnishes. The steaming longevity noodles exuded an alluring aroma, making everyone's mouth water.

At that moment, Xiaoru, Su Jingyue's personal maid, came over curiously. Her round eyes, full of confusion, stared at the two novel treats on the table. She couldn't help but ask, "Your Majesty, what are these? Why do they look so strange?" Su Jingyue smiled softly and replied, "These are longevity noodles and cake. They're birthday gifts for the Emperor." Then, she cast her gaze over the noodles and cake, a flicker of tenderness in her eyes. Then, she scribbled the words "Happy Birthday" on the cake with homemade jam. Though her handwriting was a little clumsy, it was filled with a heartfelt blessing.

Once everything was ready, Su Jingyue and Xiaoru carefully carried the cake and longevity noodles and quietly entered the emperor's palace. They hid in a corner, watching the emperor's every move with bated breath, their hearts filled with anticipation and excitement. They wanted to give the emperor an unexpected surprise at this special moment, to make him feel Su Jingyue's deep respect and blessing.

Su Jingyue, like a frightened rabbit, cautiously hid behind the screen, not daring to breathe. She covered her mouth with her hand, fearing that even the slightest sound would catch her. Her eyes were fixed on everyone at the banquet, watching for any clues, her heart filled with anxiety and anticipation.

The atmosphere at the banquet was warm and solemn, with everyone smiling and exchanging pleasantries. However, Su Jingyue was the only one missing, as if she had never existed. This made the emperor feel a little puzzled. He tilted his head slightly and scanned the room, trying to find that familiar figure.

Finally, the emperor's gaze fell on the queen. He frowned and asked in confusion, "Why is Concubine Su not here today? I remember that she always liked to attend this kind of banquet." Upon hearing this, a subtle expression flashed across the queen's face. It was an indescribable look, which showed both surprise and a hint of relief.

She shook her head gently and said in a soft and slightly apologetic voice: "I don't know where the imperial concubine has gone. Maybe she was delayed by something important. Your Majesty, don't worry. I believe that the imperial concubine will come as soon as possible." After that, she gave the emperor a comforting look, hoping to calm his doubts.

The emperor nodded in understanding, then turned to continue talking to other guests. But a sense of unease lingered in his heart. Su Jingyue's absence made him feel a little lost, and he was also worried about her safety.

Just then, a melodious song shattered the quiet of the banquet. Xiaoru, clutching a bowl of steaming longevity noodles, and Su Jingyue, carefully carrying an exquisite cake, slowly entered the banquet hall. Her voice, melodious and sweet, like the sound of nature, softly sang, "Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you..." The sudden burst of song moved everyone present, casting curious and admiring glances.

The emperor's eyes lit up. He clapped his hands and praised, "Well, my beloved concubine's song is truly unique and refreshing." Seeing this, Su Jingyue's face flushed. She bowed slightly and said softly, "I am late in preparing the birthday gift for Your Majesty. Please forgive me, Your Majesty."

The emperor quickly stepped forward and helped Su Jingyue to her feet, his eyes filled with tenderness and doting. He noticed the cake in Su Jingyue's hands and the longevity noodles in Xiaoru's, and asked curiously, "My dear, what are these?" Su Jingyue smiled slightly and explained, "This is a Western birthday cake. It's said that in Western countries, only the birthday celebrants are entitled to enjoy this unique sweet treat. And what Xiaoru is holding is our traditional Central Plains longevity noodles, symbolizing longevity and good fortune."

Upon hearing this, the emperor's eyes flashed with surprise and admiration. He gently stroked the delicate cream and bright fruits on the cake, as if he could feel the blessing and warmth from a foreign country. He turned to look at Su Jingyue, his eyes filled with gratitude and love: "My beloved concubine is so thoughtful. I like this gift very much."

At this moment, the atmosphere at the banquet reached a climax. Everyone, impressed by Su Jingyue's creativity and dedication, toasted to the Emperor and wished him a happy birthday. Su Jingyue, nestled beside the Emperor, a beaming smile on her face. She knew that this warm and beautiful moment would be forever etched in her heart, a lasting memory.