The Legend of Concubine Su

Ever since Concubine Li was severely punished by the Empress and forced into a period of seclusion and self-reflection, her inner resentment has not subsided. Instead, it's like a suppressed volcano, simmering in the shadows, ready to erupt. Countless nights she tossed and turned, replaying the years of effort and sacrifice she had made since entering the palace, yet never quite reaching that lofty glory. Meanwhile, Princess Shasha, with her fresh, newfound charm, easily captured everyone's attention, ascending to the rank of Concubine Ning, enjoying endless favor and respect. This injustice, like a sharp blade, cut through her heart, leaving her with a simmering pain and hatred that was impossible to shake off.

Finally, a carefully planned opportunity arrived. Concubine Li meticulously selected the most luxurious garments, her hair adorned with delicate pearls and jade. Every step she took was perfectly balanced, both dignified and slightly provocative. A smile, seemingly gentle but indifferent, graced her face, and her eyes shone with a complex glint, a mixture of anticipation for the upcoming "drama" and loathing for the role she was about to play.

Stepping into Princess Sasha's Moon-Lanyue Pavilion was like entering a completely different world. Everything here exuded luxury and elegance, every detail revealing the owner's exceptional taste and distinguished status. Concubine Li looked around, feeling a mixture of envy for this beautiful place and dissatisfaction with her own circumstances. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her inner turmoil, and slowly stepped forward to greet Princess Sasha.

"Greetings, Her Majesty, Concubine Ning. I have come to apologize." Concubine Li's voice was gentle and low, each word carefully crafted to create an air of sincere repentance. However, the gloom hidden in her eyes was like a dark cloud obscuring the sun, unable to conceal her true feelings. She deliberately kept a low profile, as if to demonstrate humility and submission to Princess Shasha, but in reality, she was paving the way for her next move.

"What happened last time was all due to my recklessness and ignorance. I offended Your Majesty, and I feel incredibly guilty," Noble Lady Li continued, her tone tinged with self-blame and regret, as if she truly regretted her actions. Yet, her slightly trembling hands betrayed her nervousness and uneasiness. As she spoke, she pulled an exquisitely embroidered purse from her sleeve and presented it with both hands, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. "This purse I embroidered myself. I hope it will make Your Majesty smile, and it's a small way for me to make amends for my previous impolite behavior."

Princess Shasha gazed at Concubine Li, her clear eyes filled with confusion and bewilderment. She seemed completely oblivious to the depth and hidden edge of Concubine Li's words, naively assuming she was truly coming to apologize. She smiled faintly, accepted the purse, and whispered, "Thank you for your kindness, Concubine Li. I appreciate it very much." The moment of harmony and tranquility seemed to temporarily put all previous grudges aside, but Concubine Li's jealousy only intensified. She knew this was only the beginning; the real battle had just begun.

Inside the magnificent Lanyue Pavilion, sunlight filtered through delicate window lattices, casting dappled shadows on the soft brocade carpet. Princess Shasha, a beautiful princess from a foreign land, sat at a jewel-encrusted dressing table, fiddling with an exquisite purse. The purse had been specially chosen for her by Consort Li, embroidered with intricate patterns, each stitch and thread revealing the craftsman's exquisite craftsmanship. Yet, in Princess Shasha's eyes, the purse seemed to have lost its original luster. She fiddled with it mindlessly, as if harboring a hidden worry.

At this moment, hurried footsteps were heard outside the door, followed by a little eunuch's shrill voice: "Empress Su is here!" Upon hearing this, Princess Sasha hurriedly threw her purse on the table beside her, stood up, straightened her dress, and prepared to welcome this distinguished guest.

A short while later, Imperial Concubine Su Jingyue walked into the Moon-Raising Pavilion with light steps. She was dressed in a gorgeous palace dress, her hair tied high and adorned with dazzling pearls and jade. She looked elegant and graceful, yet gentle and charming. Upon seeing Princess Shasha, Imperial Concubine Su smiled warmly and said softly, "Sister Ningfei, I'm well."

Princess Sasha hurriedly stepped forward, performed standard court etiquette, and replied: "Sister Noble Concubine, I'm fine. How come you have time to come and see me?" There was a hint of surprise and gratitude in her voice.

Concubine Su took Princess Shasha's hand, and the two of them sat together on the soft couch by the window. Su Jingyue asked with concern, "Sister Ningfei, it's been half a month since you came to the Central Plains, right? Are you used to it? Is there anything you're not used to?"

Upon hearing this, Princess Sasha showed an innocent smile on her face and replied, "I'm still getting used to everything. The food, clothing, and etiquette here are all very interesting and really opened my eyes. Sister Li is also very nice to Sasha and even gave me a purse." As she spoke, she pointed to the purse on the table, her eyes flashing with excitement.

However, when Concubine Su took the purse and sniffed it, her expression suddenly grew serious. She immediately sensed a strange smell emanating from the purse, and a trace of suspicion arose in her heart. She immediately ordered her maid to summon the imperial physician to examine it.

Soon, the imperial physician hurried over. He took the purse, sniffed it carefully, took out the spices inside and examined them carefully. Finally, he came to the conclusion: "This purse contains musk!"

Upon hearing this news, Princess Sasha's face instantly turned pale. Her eyes widened in disbelief, and she muttered to herself, "How could this happen? I thought Sister Li wanted to reconcile with me. I've never hurt her, so why would she treat me like this?" Her voice was filled with grievance and confusion.

Upon seeing this, Concubine Su hurriedly comforted her, "Don't be afraid, Sister Ningfei, I'm here. I will hand this sachet over to the Empress. I believe the Empress will give you justice." As she spoke, she gently patted Princess Sasha's shoulder, her eyes full of determination and warmth.

At this moment, Princess Shasha felt the deep care and strong support from Concubine Su. She believed that as long as Concubine Su was by her side, no matter what difficulties she encountered, she would be able to solve them.