The Legend of Concubine Su

Lin Wan'er, a concubine deep in the imperial palace, was like a dazzling pearl inlaid in that magnificent yet rife palace. She was like a quietly blooming white lotus, exuding a unique fragrance and charm amidst the bustling harem.

Her gentleness is like jade, as soft as a spring breeze; her indifference to fame and fortune is as clear as a mountain spring. This unique temperament is like an indestructible shield, tightly enveloping her, allowing her to remain independent in this complex environment, unaffected by the turmoil of the outside world.

Lin Wan'er never considered actively participating in the palace power struggles, rife with intrigue and scheming. Instead, she always remained detached, silently observing a world dominated by endless desire and supreme power. She was like a bystander, observing everything with a calm and wise eye.

Her presence was like a refreshing breeze, gently blowing away the foul air and restlessness that permeated every corner of the harem. It infused this seemingly bustling but turbulent harem with a rare sense of tranquility and peace, evoking a yearning for it.

During those few, precious days of leisure, Lin Wan'er developed an almost obsessive fondness for her own chamber, as if it were a sanctuary for her inner world, completely isolating herself from the clamor and chaos of the outside world.

She sat at the zither table, her delicate hands gently plucking the strings of the guqin. Instantly, the melodious sound of the zither flowed out like a clear spring gurgling from the mountains. This exquisite melody easily penetrated layer after layer of towering and heavy palace walls, like a warm spring breeze, quietly and silently blowing away the haze and dust lingering in her heart.

This moving piano music is not only an unbridled outpouring of her innermost feelings, but also the sole solace for her lonely soul. Each leaping note holds within it a complex tapestry of joy, sorrow, anger, and happiness. Those who hear this music are drawn inwardly, seeking to fully appreciate and experience her unique and captivating charm.

When her fingertips leave the strings, Lin Wan'er picks up her embroidery needle and begins weaving patterns onto the delicate silk. Her embroidery is unparalleled, and every stitch reveals her ultimate pursuit and love of beauty. The flowers she weaves are so lifelike they seem to exude a delicate fragrance; the birds she embroiders spread their wings, ready to take flight, and you can almost hear their clear chirping. These embroidery pieces not only adorn her palace but also become a pure place for her soul, allowing her to find a place of her own, away from the hustle and bustle of life.

However, how could Lin Wan'er's life remain so peaceful and uneventful? One day, the intelligent Concubine Su Jingyue inadvertently noticed Lin Wan'er's unique qualities and decided to seek more attention and favor for her.

Su Jingyue was well aware that directly advising the Emperor might resent her, so she chose the right moment and approached the Emperor with an extremely tactful and subtle approach. During the conversation, she subtly mentioned Lin Wan'er, describing her gentle and elegant demeanor and her aloof nature, successfully capturing the Emperor's attention.

Upon hearing this, the Emperor's lips curled up slightly, a knowing smile forming. He clearly approved of Su Jingyue's proposal, and a deep interest in Lin Wan'er had already taken hold. Immediately, a group of young eunuchs bustled about like ants on a hot pan, meticulously preparing everything necessary for Lin Wan'er's bedtime. They dared not slack off, fearing any mistake would incur the Emperor's wrath.

As Lin Wan'er was carefully carried by a group of young eunuchs onto the emperor's resplendent and solemn dragon bed, her already fluttering heart was now overwhelmed by a complex and intense mix of emotions. Her beautiful eyes widened in disbelief, her heart filled with astonishment—how could her fate have suddenly changed so drastically?

At the same time, an inexplicable feeling of unease quietly welled up within her, making her feel a bit uneasy. But within this wave of unease, a faint, irrepressible sense of anticipation and longing lingered, like a star twinkling faintly in the darkness, tiny yet still captivating.

As the eunuchs gently drew the heavy curtains, isolating her from the Emperor in this incredibly private and cramped space, Lin Wan'er felt instantly like the center of the world, all eyes focused on her. She knew this would be a crucial turning point in her life. Whether the road ahead was calm or turbulent, she resolved to bravely embrace it with a calm and peaceful mind, doubly cherishing this hard-earned opportunity and the Emperor's unwavering favor.

The Emperor gently leaned over and caressed Lin Wan'er's delicate, petal-like cheek with his slightly calloused hand. He then whispered softly, "You are Lin Wan'er, right? I've heard the Imperial Concubine mention you before, and now that I see you, you are indeed as gentle and charming as the rumors say." Hearing the Emperor's praise, Lin Wan'er's cheeks flushed like ripe apples. She lowered her head shyly and whispered, "Thank you, Your Majesty, for the compliment."

Then, the Emperor gracefully removed Lin Wan'er's crescent-colored gauze dress, as radiant as moonlight, revealing her snow-white skin and graceful, alluring figure. The two embraced each other tightly, as if time had stood still, and together they performed the Zhougong ritual, a symbol of marital love...

The next morning, sunlight filtered through the gauze curtains. Lin Wan'er, fresh from her bedtime, was being dressed by the palace maids. She wore a simple, elegant palace dress, her hair adorned with delicate pearls, giving her a fresh and refined look. With a grateful heart, Lin Wan'er slowly entered Su Jingyue's palace.

The moment she entered the palace, a delicate fragrance filled her nostrils, complementing the palace's decorations and creating a tranquil and elegant atmosphere. Lin Wan'er moved lightly, passing through a series of exquisite screens, and finally arrived in front of Su Jingyue.

She bent her knees slightly, performing standard court etiquette. A sincere smile graced her face as she softly said, "I, your concubine Lin Wan'er, have come specially to thank the Imperial Concubine for speaking well of me before the Emperor. I will always remember your kindness."

Su Jingyue sat on an exquisite phoenix chair, dressed in gorgeous palace attire and crowned with a golden phoenix hairpin. She appeared noble and dignified. However, when she saw Lin Wan'er, a gentle smile involuntarily spread across her face. She gently raised her hand, motioning Lin Wan'er to stand, and then slowly said, "Lin Wan'er, you're welcome. I was only doing my duty. No need to thank me."

Su Jingyue's gaze lingered on Lin Wan'er for a moment, admiration in her eyes. She continued, "I have always admired your gentle nature. Maintaining such innocence and kindness in this deep palace is truly rare. I believe the Emperor will love you even more for your kindness."

Lin Wan'er felt a surge of warmth in her heart upon hearing this. She glanced at Su Jingyue gratefully, then bowed again, saying, "I thank the Imperial Concubine for her compliments. I will certainly live up to your expectations, continue to treat everyone with gentleness, and help the Emperor resolve his worries and difficulties."

Su Jingyue smiled and nodded, seeming very satisfied with Lin Wan'er's answer. She waved her hand gently, signaling the maids to serve Lin Wan'er tea. For the next few minutes, the two of them sipped tea and chatted, their topics ranging from trivial matters in the palace to poetry, music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. The atmosphere was very harmonious.

This unexpected encounter and conversation not only made Lin Wan'er feel Su Jingyue's care and warmth, but also made her more determined to maintain her innocence and kindness in the palace. Su Jingyue was also happy because of Lin Wan'er's arrival. She seemed to see a new stream of freshness quietly rising in the palace.