The Legend of Concubine Su

Within the majestic palace, time slipped by like a fleeting white horse. In the blink of an eye, it was the annual Ullambana Festival. Like a mysterious ritual from ancient legends, this grand celebration slowly unveiled its long-awaited curtain. This festival was more than just a solemn and mysterious celebration; it served as a bridge connecting the hearts of the royal family and the common people, allowing them to work together to weave a beautiful picture of the future and stride towards a glorious tomorrow.

At this moment, the setting sun, its last rays lazily shimmering across the resplendent palace, seemed to drape the magnificent structure in a magnificent brocade, emitting a dazzling radiance. However, in stark contrast, a thin layer of mist, like smoke and gauze, had already begun to permeate the moat surrounding the palace, soft and warm. This delicate and poetic mist, like a mysterious veil, gently shrouded the impending grand ceremony, making the entire scene even more dreamlike and captivating.

On the river, stained like golden silk by the setting sun's afterglow, tiny shimmers of golden light shimmered among the rippling waters, like countless stars falling into them. Each ripple seemed to hold an endless supply of tenderness and sweetness, whispering ancient stories passed down through generations, as well as eager anticipation and longing for an unknown future.

Strolling along the riverbank, you'll find rows of exquisite lotus lanterns meticulously crafted by skilled artisans. These lanterns, arranged in a staggered pattern of heights, resemble a dazzling galaxy cascading from the heavens to the earth. Some resemble shy young women, their buds tightly closed, concealing their reserve and reserve; others, like peerless beauties, unfurl their delicate petals, radiating a dazzling brilliance.

The significance of these lotus lanterns goes far beyond ordinary lighting. Each one is like a treasure box filled with longing and blessings, carrying the endless love and affection for loved ones who have passed away. Those who once accompanied us through countless days and nights are now gone, but the love they left behind, like the light of these lotus lanterns, forever illuminates our path forward.

These lotus lanterns convey not only a nostalgia for the past but also a hopeful expectation for the future. Like bright stars, they shine in the darkness, giving people the courage to pursue their dreams and create a brighter tomorrow. This beautiful wish, like a warm spring breeze, caresses everyone's heart, reassuring us that no matter how many difficulties and obstacles lie ahead, as long as we hold on to our faith, we can embrace a bright future.

As night slowly falls and the world begins to illuminate with vibrant lights, the lotus lanterns nestled quietly along the riverbank come to life. Like blossoming lotus flowers, they emit a soft, captivating light, adorning the entire riverbank in a dreamlike, breathtaking beauty. At this moment, time seems to freeze, and everything becomes serene and tranquil, captivating and captivating.

Amidst this dazzling display of light and shadow, we seem to sense the subtle yet profound connection between life and death. Death is not the end, but rather a new beginning; life is not eternal; it demands our careful cherishing and care. Just like the ever-blooming lotus lanterns, fleeting yet incredibly beautiful, they uniquely interpret the cycle of all things. Standing here, gazing at this breathtaking spectacle, I can't help but feel an inexplicable emotion: Life can truly be so vibrant and colorful!

As night slowly falls, the light of the lotus lanterns gradually converges into a sea, echoing the twinkling stars in the night sky, weaving together a series of enchanting paintings. A gentle breeze creates delicate ripples on the water, and the lotus lanterns sway gently, like a group of nimble spirits dancing in the night, adding a touch of dreaminess and romance to this solemn yet warm Ullambana Festival.

At this moment, the palace itself was equally filled with joy and celebration. The Emperor and Empress, adorned in elaborate court attire, sat atop a resplendent dais, beaming with joy as they joined the people. Musicians' fingers danced across the strings, striking melodious strains. Dancers, clad in light, flowing costumes, moved gracefully to the rhythm of the music, like celestial beings descending to earth, adding infinite splendor and charm to the feast. Outside, the common people flocked to the moat, clutching lotus lanterns, filled with reverence and anticipation, and slowly lowering them into the water, allowing them to carry their wishes and blessings far into the distance.

The Emperor, like a lithe butterfly, took graceful and agile steps, cautiously and silently approaching Su Jingyue. The bright moonlight poured down like mercury on his magnificent dragon robe, as if draping a thin veil over this garment, a symbol of supreme power and majesty. His originally cold and serious demeanor instantly softened, even imbued with a subtle touch of tenderness.

He slowly bent down, his movements so gentle as if he was afraid to disturb the person before him. Then, he placed his lips close to Su Jingyue's earlobe, which was as delicate as a petal. He lowered his voice, whispering softly to her in a tone that was both low, magnetic, and full of affection: "My beloved, I am trapped in this bottomless, cage-like palace, surrounded by endless power struggles all day long, and my heart is exhausted. However, it is only when I come to you that I can completely cast aside the suffocating imperial power and responsibilities, rediscover my true self, and truly experience that precious moment of peace and freedom."

Su Jingyue's eyes flickered with tenderness and emotion as she heard this. She gently turned to face the emperor, her clear eyes seemingly piercing the heart. She smiled, a smile as warm and bright as a flower blooming in spring. Then, she slowly walked to the edge of the pond, holding a delicate lotus lantern.

This lotus lantern was made by her own hands, each petal meticulously carved and emitting a faint fragrance. She gently placed the lotus lantern by the pond. Under the moonlight, the lantern appeared even more crystal clear, as if it had really turned into a blooming lotus, floating quietly on the water.

Seeing this, the Emperor also stepped forward and stood shoulder to shoulder with Su Jingyue. He looked at the lotus lantern, a trace of tenderness and nostalgia flashing in his eyes. Perhaps, in this deep palace, such moments were rare, but every time he was with Su Jingyue, he felt an unprecedented sense of ease and comfort.

The two stood there quietly, savoring this rare moment of tranquility. Everything around them seemed still, save for the gentle swaying of the lotus lantern on the water, emitting a soft glow. In that moment, they seemed to have forgotten their identities and status, becoming just a pair of lovers cuddling together, sharing their thoughts under the moonlight.

The Ullambana Festival, a celebration that blends tradition and modernity, solemnity and warmth, not only allows people to experience the warmth of family and the preciousness of friendship amidst joy and prayer, but also allows everyone to deeply feel the close connection and shared destiny with this great nation. Here, from the highest echelons of the royal family to the humblest common people, all share the same wishes and blessings: peace and prosperity for the nation, good weather and good harvests; safety and well-being for their families; and eternal prosperity for the people, with peace and contentment. The lotus lanterns quietly blooming along the moat are like bright beacons, illuminating our path in the darkness and leading us towards a brighter future.