The Legend of Concubine Su

Deep within the magnificent and majestic Imperial Palace, newly promoted nobles and maids, like fledglings entering the world, cautiously navigated the rules and regulations of court life. They gradually grasped the intricacies of court etiquette and diligently learned how to maintain proper demeanor. Yet, despite their outward appearance of composure, a deep longing for the Emperor's favor, like a mysterious flower hidden deep within the palace, quietly took root and blossomed into a dazzling and captivating brilliance. Unfortunately, this ardent desire, like the delicate stamens of a flower forever unable to bask in the sunlight, remained unattainable and filled with melancholy.

The emperor, high and mighty, revered by all, was now deeply mired in the trivialities of state affairs, too busy to spare the time to pay attention to these beautiful women who had recently entered the palace. They were like neglected stars in the night sky, shining silently and alone among the vast harem, unnoticed.

On such an ordinary day, the once tranquil and solemn Imperial Study suddenly erupted into a tense and oppressive atmosphere. The Emperor's face was sullen as he raged at the eunuchs in the Imperial Affairs Office, responsible for overseeing the imperial concubines' nightlife. These careless servants had blundered so gravely in such an important matter, igniting the Emperor's wrath. His deafening roar, emanating an unquestionable authority, filled everyone present with a sense of dread, a feeling of descent into an icy cellar. Even the air seemed to freeze in the midst of the overwhelming force.

At this tense moment, the Empress, like a gentle spring breeze, gently entered the Imperial Study. Clad in gorgeous palace attire, every step she took was graceful and composed. Upon meeting the Emperor, she immediately performed standard court etiquette. Her gentle voice, like the sound of nature, filled one with both awe and warmth: "Your Majesty, I pay my respects to you. May you enjoy good health and a long life."

However, the Emperor's reaction seemed somewhat cold. He simply raised his head slightly, glanced at the Empress, and then buried himself in the pile of memorials. The Empress did not feel the slightest bit embarrassed or displeased. She slowly walked to the Emperor's side and said in her soft but firm voice, "Your Majesty, the new noble ladies have been here for some time. According to palace rules, it is their turn to sleep with you. I know that Your Majesty loves Concubine Su the most. Her gentleness, virtue, and outstanding talent make me ashamed of myself. However, the affairs of the harem are related to the reputation of the royal family and the stability of the court. If these new ladies are constantly denied the opportunity to sleep with you, I am afraid it will attract criticism from the ministers in the court, which will be detrimental to the reputation of both the Emperor and the Concubine."

The Empress' words were like gentle spring rain, expressing her deep concern and respect for the Emperor while subtly reminding him of the importance of harem matters. The Emperor's expression was complex. He knew the Empress' words were true; the stability and harmony of the harem were vital to the entire dynasty. With a sigh, he reluctantly agreed, "Very well, I will do as the Empress wishes. However, I hope the Empress will take a little more care to maintain harmony and peace within the harem."

Upon hearing this, the Empress smiled with relief. She knew her words had moved the Emperor, and that he understood the heavy responsibility she shouldered. She bowed again and said softly, "I obey your command. I will do my utmost to manage the affairs of the harem, so that His Majesty has nothing to worry about." With that, she slowly withdrew from the Imperial Study, leaving the Emperor alone to continue handling state affairs.

As night fell, the Emperor, at the Empress's suggestion, finally decided to summon the eunuchs from the Imperial Service Office to arrange for his bedtime service. With trembling hands, the eunuch flipped through the green card for the nightly invitation and ultimately chose Shangguan Nana's name. Excited and nervous, the eunuch arrived at Shangguan Nana's palace to share the joyful news: "Congratulations, my lady! Congratulations, my lady! Among the new ladies, you are the first to receive this favor! The Emperor has flipped your card tonight. Please prepare." Shangguan Nana was overwhelmed with indescribable joy and excitement. She quickly thanked the eunuch, "Thank you, eunuch!" Then, with a glance, she signaled to her personal maid, Chunlan, "Reward." Chunlan understood and, pulling a handful of glittering golden sunflower seeds from her sleeve, handed them to the eunuch as a reward. The eunuch, flattered, accepted the seeds, thanked him profusely, and hurried off to prepare for his bedtime service. Shangguan Nana began to nervously and excitedly prepare for her first night of serving the emperor...

As night fell, the flickering palace lanterns illuminated Shangguan Nana's exquisitely crafted face. Her eyes were slightly closed, as if lost in an indescribable tension and anticipation. With the sound of rapid, tinny footsteps, a group of well-trained eunuchs cautiously entered the emperor's magnificent chambers. Their movements were graceful and coordinated, as if they were performing a silent ritual.

Surrounded by these eunuchs, Shangguan Nana was gently lifted up. She was dressed in a gorgeous palace dress, dancing gracefully with a light veil, like a fairy descending to earth. A hint of girlish shyness appeared on her cheeks, and the blush in the light made her look even more beautiful, like the most beautiful flower in spring, waiting to be moistened by the morning dew.

The eunuchs, well-trained and experienced, carefully and steadily lifted Shangguan Nana and walked step by step towards the dragon bed, a symbol of supreme power and reverence. Their steps were firm and powerful yet graceful, each movement exuding a solemnity, as if they were carrying out an incomparably sacred mission. Their movements were smooth and natural, as if they were accustomed to such occasions, without the slightest hint of panic or nervousness. Their eyes were focused and steady, revealing a pride and confidence in their work.

At this solemn and awe-inspiring moment, time seemed to have stood still, and a mysterious and dignified atmosphere permeated the entire palace. Everyone watched the scene quietly, anticipating what would happen next. Shangguan Nana's mood also grew tense as the atmosphere changed. She didn't know what she was about to face, but her heart was filled with anticipation.

Arriving at the dragon bed, the eunuchs, in unison, gently placed Shangguan Nana on the soft mattress. Then, swiftly and methodically, they drew the curtains around her, instantly isolating her chamber from the outside world. Now, only the emperor and Shangguan Nana remained in this tranquil and quiet world, immersed in a precious atmosphere of privacy and tranquility.

The Emperor approached with steady steps, his piercing eyes gleaming with a gentle, watery light, so profound that it seemed as if they could see through everything in the world. He slowly extended his broad palm, his slender fingers brushing across Shangguan Nana's delicate, snow-white face with feather-like ease. His movements were gentle and soothing, like a warm spring breeze blowing across a tranquil lake, quietly stirring up tiny ripples.

Shangguan Nana lay there quietly, her captivating eyes slightly closed, her beautiful eyelashes fluttering like butterfly wings. Her breathing was steady and even, her breasts rising and falling with each breath, revealing an alluring beauty. Her skin was as white as snow, as delicate as silk, and exuded a faint fragrance.

The Emperor gently caressed Shangguan Nana's cheek, feeling the warmth and smoothness of her skin. His eyes were filled with pity and love, as if he wanted to integrate Shangguan Nana into his own life. Shangguan Nana opened her eyes slightly, her gaze hazy and gentle, and met the Emperor's. Their eyes met, and their emotions were sublimated in this moment.

The Emperor's lips gradually approached Shangguan Nana's, his breath carrying a light fragrance that intoxicated her. Their lips touched lightly, first tentatively, then gradually deepened. The Emperor's kiss was gentle and affectionate, and Shangguan Nana responded to his passion, enjoying this sweet intimacy.

At this moment, time seemed to freeze, and everything became so beautiful. The Emperor and Shangguan Nana were immersed in this warm and romantic atmosphere, enjoying each other's love and care. Their hearts connected, their emotions intertwined, and together they created a happy time that belonged to them.

Shangguan Nana was acutely aware of the emperor's affectionate gesture, and her delicate body trembled slightly. She felt somewhat bewildered, yet also tinged with anticipation and delight. At this moment, a complex tangle of nervousness and anticipation mingled within her, as if she were about to open a crucial and crucial new chapter in her life.

She bit her lip gently, trying to resist the urge to retreat. She knew that after taking this step, there would be no turning back. What awaited her ahead? Perhaps happiness, perhaps pain, but no matter what, she would face it bravely.

At this moment, time seemed to freeze, and the entire chamber was immersed in an indescribable atmosphere. Every glance and every subtle gesture between the Emperor and Shangguan Nana was filled with profound meaning and emotion. It was as if the souls of two different worlds met and merged in this moment, together performing a love story that transcended status and position.

Shangguan Nana took a deep breath, telling herself not to be afraid, to trust the man before her. He was the ruler of a country, and the man she loved. What would he bring her? Power or true love? She didn't know the answer, but she was willing to try. Because in her heart, nothing was more precious than true love.