The Legend of Concubine Su

In the long corridor within the palace walls, sunlight filtered through the sparse clouds, dappling the busy figures of the palace maids. Their hands never stopped working, but their eyes flickered with curiosity and speculation about the upcoming news.

A palace maid spoke softly, as if afraid of disturbing everything around her. She said, "Have you heard that a new queen will soon be arriving in the harem? Although this news has not been officially announced, it has quietly spread among the palace." Her voice was filled with anticipation for the unknown, as well as a hint of imperceptible worry.

Upon hearing this, another palace maid paused her sewing, her face a mixture of confusion and envy. "Who is that bride, anyway? Why did she receive such an honor? Meanwhile, we, palace maids at the bottom of the hierarchy, can only repeat these dull tasks day after day, never even dreaming of being favored by the emperor." Her tone revealed a hint of resignation and self-consolation.

At this moment, a more astute maid lowered her voice, attempting to shed more light. "I've heard that this bride is a princess from the Nile, a distant traveler of exceptional status. However, matters in the harem are ever-changing, so it's best to refrain from discussing them, lest we bring ourselves into trouble." Her words were filled with caution and alertness, as if she were well-versed in the various rules and taboos of the imperial court.

Just as the maids were lost in their own thoughts, a stern yet gentle voice shattered the silence. "When working in our Empress's palace, remember to be cautious in your words and actions. Less talk, more action—this is the most basic rule." It was Xiaoru, Su Jingyue's personal maid and the head maid. She stood at one end of the corridor, her sharp eyes scanning each maid, as if she could read their every thought.

Xiaoru knew that as the Empress's trusted maid, she not only had to uphold her reputation and status, but also constantly remind the other maids to remain vigilant and humble. She continued, "Although our Empress is gentle and kind, this does not mean you can speak recklessly or ignore the rules. Although I am only a maid, I also have the responsibility to maintain order and peace in the palace. Therefore, please remember my words, work diligently, and abide by the rules."

As Xiaoru finished her words, the maids lowered their heads and returned to their tasks. The corridor regained its former tranquility and order, but everyone secretly remembered Xiaoru's teachings and reminders. They knew that in this harem full of uncertainty and danger, only maintaining a low profile and caution could ensure long-term survival.

The Golden Throne Hall was a resplendent spectacle. Sunlight streamed through the glazed tiles, illuminating the hall like a fairyland. The Emperor sat upon the Dragon Throne, a symbol of supreme authority. He wore a dragon robe, its golden silk embroidered dragon pattern gleaming in the sunlight, a majestic and solemn expression. The Empress sat nearby on a Phoenix Chair, adorned with a magnificent phoenix robe and crown. She looked dignified and elegant, like a fairy descended to earth.

On either side of the hall, numerous concubines lined up, some gentle and charming, some charming and graceful, each displaying their own unique charm. Among them, Su Jingyue, Concubine Li, Concubine Jiang, and Concubine Li were particularly eye-catching. They either lowered their heads in deep thought or whispered softly, each immersed in their own world.

At that moment, a strange presence shattered the tranquility of the hall. The King of Nepal entered, accompanied by his beloved daughter, Shasha. Dressed in a vibrant sari intricately embroidered with patterns, Shasha resembled blossoming flowers. Her face was veiled, revealing only a pair of bright eyes, sparkling with curiosity and anxiety. The King of Nepal respectfully introduced her to the Emperor, "Your Majesty, this is our little daughter, Shasha, specially presented to you. I hope she will bring you joy."

When Shasha heard her father's words, she couldn't help but feel helpless. Although she was beautiful, she was being given to this strange emperor by her father like a gift. However, she did not show any dissatisfaction or resistance, but simply bowed gently to show her respect for the emperor.

Su Jingyue sat nearby, keenly catching the resignation in Sasha's eyes. She couldn't help but wonder, how many women in the palace truly entered the palace willingly? Most were driven by their families' interests or forced into the maelstrom of power. Thinking of this, Su Jingyue couldn't help but feel a surge of sympathy and pity for Sasha.

The moment the emperor saw Sasha, he was captivated by her beauty and exotic charm. He smiled from ear to ear, seemingly oblivious to the presence of other concubines. He extended his hand, beckoning Sasha to come to him. Although reluctant, Sasha dared not disobey the emperor's order and slowly stepped forward.

At this moment, the atmosphere within the throne room became extremely tense. The emperor's eyes were fixed solely on Sasha's beauty and exotic charm, while the other concubines harbored their own hidden agendas: some jealous, some envious, and some secretly grateful they hadn't been chosen as a replacement for this exotic princess. However, regardless of their feelings, they could only silently accept this reality and continue their seemingly glamorous, yet turbulent, lives within the palace.

Princess Sasha of Nepal, clad in a dazzling array of shimmering attire, resembled an exotic flower blooming in the desert. She gracefully stepped into the center of the dance floor, instantly capturing everyone's attention. As a melodious and mysterious melody slowly began to play, Princess Sasha began a breathtaking dance. Her movements were fluid and powerful, and every turn and gesture exuded a rich exotic charm, transporting everyone to a distant and mysterious land.

The Emperor sat on the dais, his gaze fixed on Princess Shasha, his face brimming with admiration and praise. When Princess Shasha completed her final, challenging jump, the entire banquet hall erupted in thunderous applause, and the Emperor couldn't help but clap and applaud. His eyes were filled with recognition and fondness for Princess Shasha's talent, as if, at that moment, he had already considered this exotic princess his own precious treasure.

Amidst applause and praise, the emperor slowly stood up, his voice echoing throughout the banquet hall: "King of Nepal, your princess is truly a woman of both talent and beauty, and I deeply admire her. After meeting her today, I know that our two countries will forge an indissoluble bond. I solemnly declare that I have made you my friend! I will treat Princess Shasha as my own daughter, and I will treat her well, so that she can feel the warmth and happiness of home in my palace."

However, as the emperor finished speaking, a flicker of fear and uneasiness suddenly crossed Princess Sasha's eyes. Though deeply moved by the emperor's generosity, she was deeply troubled by the uncertain future. She wondered what challenges and difficulties she would face after leaving familiar Nepal and entering this unfamiliar land. Yet, she maintained her princess's dignity and grace, striving to smile brightly as a gesture of gratitude for the emperor's kindness and care.