The Legend of Concubine Su

On this beautiful spring day, blossoming and overflowing with life, the entire world seemed immersed in a vibrant scene. Like a pair of gentle hands, the sun gently caressed every inch of the imperial palace, making every brick and tile glow with a unique brilliance, shimmering and dazzling. At this dreamlike moment, this ancient palace, steeped in history and solemnity, welcomed a new group of faces—the newly selected concubines.

These young women, like the most brilliantly colorful flowers blooming in spring, were radiant with beauty and exuding an enchanting fragrance. With endless yearning for a better future and a hint of barely concealed nervousness, they walked lightly and gracefully into this magnificent palace, shrouded in mystery and solemnity, ready to face a crucial and challenging turning point in their lives.

Under the meticulous guidance of the experienced and highly respected tutor, these newly arrived young ladies began their first lessons at the palace. Though advanced in years, the tutor remained vibrant and energetic. Time had left its mark on her features, yet her eyes, brimming with experience and insight, still shone with wisdom. Her every gesture exuded elegance and grace, a commanding presence beneath her veil. Her soft yet commanding voice, like a celestial sound, melodiously outlined the grandeur of palace life for the young ladies, explaining the myriad rules and regulations, as well as the numerous taboos, in a simple and accessible manner.

For these newly arrived ladies-in-waiting, learning court etiquette was like a mysterious yet exciting adventure. Filled with nervousness and curiosity, they entered this realm of majesty and solemnity.

From the moment they entered the palace, the concubines began their most fundamental yet crucial training: standing, sitting, and walking posture. The instructor, with her strict yet professional demeanor, meticulously instructed these young ladies, like a sculptor nurturing a rough jade. She demanded that the concubines stand tall, as unwavering as pine trees and cypresses; their steps be as light as a breeze across a lake; and their every gesture exude elegance and grace, every subtle movement conforming to the imperial family's stringent aesthetic standards.

However, this was just the beginning. As the course progressed, the women were exposed to the ever-increasing complexity and depth of banquet etiquette. Details like how to eat and drink appropriately at a banquet, how to greet other guests, and even the seating arrangement—all tested their wit and adaptability. When it came to meeting the Emperor and Empress, the rules were even more bewildering. From dress and grooming to manners and behavior, even eye contact—there were strict rules, and even the slightest mistake could lead to a serious blunder. Furthermore, the women learned how to interact with the diverse and diverse personalities within the palace. From powerful concubines to lowly maids and eunuchs, they were expected to respond and show respect appropriate to their status.

Despite the arduous task, under the patient guidance and guidance of their aunt, the concubines, through their ingenuity and diligence, gradually grasped the profound meaning behind court etiquette. Like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, they gradually shed their initial awkwardness and immaturity, replaced by a unique temperament and graceful demeanor that emanated from within. This temperament was reflected not only in their outwardly dignified demeanor, but also in their deep reverence and respect for the dignity of the imperial family. Through daily training, the concubines became a beautiful feature of this magnificent palace, adding a touch of brilliant splendor to the entire court.

Among the numerous concubines, Lin Wan'er, with her gentle demeanor and exceptional talent, stood out and became the center of attention. Not only was she strikingly beautiful, but she possessed a brilliant and diligent heart. While learning court etiquette, Lin Wan'er demonstrated remarkable comprehension and diligence. She carefully listened to her instructor's every word and diligently practiced privately, striving for perfection in every movement and every detail. Her dedication and talent quickly earned her instructor's recognition and praise, further distinguishing her from the other concubines.

During breaks, the concubines would gather to exchange experiences and share anecdotes. One of them, Shangguan Nana, curiously asked Lin Wan'er, "What's your name?" Lin Wan'er smiled and replied, "Lin Wan'er, I'm sixteen years old." Shangguan Nana's eyes lit up, and she said, "How about I call you Sister? Sister Wan'er, I've heard that the Imperial Concubine is the most favored in the palace." Lin Wan'er immediately looked around warily, noticing the tutor busying around nearby. She quickly whispered to Shangguan Nana, "Nana, Auntie is here, we mustn't talk nonsense." She also used her eyes to signal Shangguan Nana to be mindful of her words and actions, lest she cause unnecessary trouble.

In this way, through intensive yet disciplined study, Lin Wan'er and the other concubines gradually matured into ladies worthy of the imperial court. They not only mastered the essentials of court etiquette but also learned how to maintain dignity and grace in the complex environment of the palace. All these changes were inseparable from the selfless guidance of the tutor and their own hard work and perseverance.

The Empress arrived, clad in a regal phoenix robe and shuffling gracefully, like a fairy descending to earth. Her arrival bathed the entire palace in a solemn yet warm atmosphere. Today, she had come to inspect the progress of the concubines in learning court etiquette, hoping that these future concubines would quickly adapt to the rules of the palace and become true members of the royal family.

As the Empress entered, the Imperial Instructor immediately stepped forward to greet her. She led all the concubines in kneeling in unison, expressing the utmost respect for the Empress. In a clear and powerful voice, the Imperial Instructor said respectfully, "Your servant greets the Empress. May you live a thousand years." These words expressed not only respect for the Empress but also reverence for imperial authority.

Seeing this, the Empress smiled warmly. She raised her hand gently and said, "Everyone, please stand up." These words, like a spring breeze, made all the concubines feel the Empress's kindness and tolerance. They all stood up, their eyes filled with gratitude and admiration for the Empress.

The tutor stepped forward again, bowed, and said gratefully, "Thank you, Your Majesty." These three words, though brief, conveyed the tutor's deep gratitude for the Empress. She knew that the Empress's care and encouragement were the greatest affirmation of her work.

The Empress smiled at the tutor and whispered, "You've worked so hard teaching these ladies." These words, like warm sunshine, illuminated the tutor's heart. She quickly replied, "It's my duty, not hard." Though the tutor claimed it wasn't hard, a glint of fatigue gleamed in her eyes. The Empress saw it, and it pained her heart. She knew that these ladies' rapid mastery of court etiquette was inseparable from the tutor's hard work and selfless dedication.

The Empress decided to reward and commend the tutor. She instructed her maids to fetch precious jewels and silks, which she personally presented to the tutor. The tutor was overwhelmed and immediately knelt to express her sincere gratitude to the Empress. The Empress smiled, helped her up, and said, "Don't be so polite, Auntie. You deserve this."

At this moment, the entire palace was immersed in an atmosphere of joy and harmony. The Queen's kindness and tolerance, the tutor's hard work and dedication, the concubines' efforts and growth... all of this constituted the most beautiful scenery in the palace.