The Legend of Concubine Su

Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, Su Jingyue's birthday is approaching like a gurgling stream. For her, this special day is more than just a commemoration of age and the passing of time; it is more like a quiet haven deep in her heart, giving her endless warmth and peace.

Su Jingyue knew full well that, within the inner court of the imperial family, as one of the many beauties, every moment and breath of her life was like a delicate thread, meticulously woven into a magnificent embroidered scroll, bearing not only the majesty and glory of the imperial family but also the happiness and well-being of all people. It was for this reason that, on the eve of her birthday, she carefully selected a plain and elegant dress and, with a heart of utmost piety and humility, lightly entered the Emperor's solemn and mysterious study.

"Your Majesty! My birthday is almost here! The thought of this fills me with both joy and anticipation! Yet, at the same time, deep within me, I am overwhelmed with deep thoughts." Su Jingyue's voice, as melodious as the gurgling of a mountain spring, evoked an endless tenderness and grace, while also revealing a resoluteness and courage that could not be ignored. She bowed slightly, her movements graceful and elegant, perfectly displaying the dignified demeanor expected of a concubine.

At that moment, her beautiful eyes, as calm and clear as autumn water, gazed upon the Emperor before her, gleaming with sincere love and respect for the Emperor and deep concern for the people of the world. It was as if through those bright eyes one could see her kind and compassionate heart.

"I understand perfectly well that birthday celebrations should be a time for families to gather together, enjoying the joy of family. However, now that I am trapped within the inner court, I am fully aware that my every word, action, and gesture will attract countless eyes and touch countless hearts. Furthermore, while our country has enjoyed prosperity and peace in recent years, the lives of ordinary people at the grassroots continue to face numerous difficulties and challenges. Their lives are not easy! Therefore, I have the audacity to offer your Majesty a proposal today, hoping for some changes in this year's birthday celebrations. In my opinion, it would be better to abandon the overly complex and lengthy rituals and extravagant and lavish ceremonies! Let everything return to its most basic, simple and unpretentious state. This way, we can avoid placing a heavy burden on the people and wasting considerable manpower, material resources, and financial resources. It will also demonstrate the benevolent way of governing the country that Your Majesty has always upheld and advocated."

Upon hearing this, the Emperor slowly set aside the memorial he was reading. His eyes revealed an indescribable tenderness, as warm and pleasant as the gentle spring sunshine. His gaze, drawn as if by a magnet, was involuntarily fixed on Su Jingyue's graceful, charming, and lovely face.

The emperor knew full well that his beloved concubine possessed not only a breathtaking beauty, but also a heart steeped in compassion, sympathy, and a deep concern for the people of the world. At this moment, she was like a sacred lotus quietly blooming in the palace's backyard, untainted by the mud, radiating a unique charm of transcendence, freshness, and elegance.

Instantly, a surge of warmth surged through the emperor's heart, spreading to every corner of his body. His lips curled up slightly, a knowing smile forming as he whispered, "My beloved concubine, you are absolutely right. You truly touch my heart! Not only is your beauty so stunning, so stunning, but you are also virtuous, gentle, and virtuous. You always put yourself in my shoes, helping me resolve my problems. You are truly the greatest blessing of my life! Since you are so sincere and earnest, I will naturally comply with your wishes. This year, my birthday does not require any grand celebration or extravagance. Simply spend this beautiful, quiet time with you. Let us immerse ourselves in this peaceful, harmonious, warm, and romantic atmosphere, and truly appreciate each other's sincere affection and deep love. Wouldn't this be far more precious and unforgettable than those seemingly ostentatious but empty displays?"

Thus, thanks to the Emperor's ingenious design and meticulous planning, Su Jingyue's birthday celebration was decorated in a simple yet tender manner. There was no magnificent palace as a backdrop, nor was there a grand, overflowing banquet to cheer them up. Instead, there was simply the Emperor and she, like a couple in heaven, strolling leisurely and carefree hand in hand through the Imperial Gardens.

Together, they boarded a small, exquisitely crafted black-sailed boat. Like a lithe leaf, it drifted quietly across the picturesque, shimmering waters, gently swaying with the breeze. In that instant, they forgot their supremely noble identities—no longer the emperor, almighty and mighty, nor the imperial concubine, adored by countless patrons. They were now simply a loving couple in the ordinary world.

They leaned against each other, immersing themselves in this hard-earned peace and happiness. Inside the cabin, where candlelight flickered and swayed gracefully, they raised their glasses, clinked them gently, and drank them all in one gulp. As the wine flowed down their throats, the words long buried in their hearts burst forth like a broken dam. They confided in each other their deepest secrets and their hopes and aspirations for the beautiful future.

At that moment, time seemed to suddenly stand still, and everything in the world was frozen in time. All beauty and warmth, as if enchanted, converged in this brief moment. Allowing those two hearts, already deeply connected and inseparable, to flow silently and quietly along the long river of time... Su Jingyue's gaze, as clear as water, gazed affectionately at the majestic emperor before her, and she whispered softly, "I wish to possess the heart of one person, and to be with you until we grow old together. Your Majesty, I am truly blessed to be with you for the rest of my life. I feel truly blessed." Her delicate face was filled with contentment and joy.

The emperor smiled faintly, his eyes filled with doting. He gently took Su Jingyue's hand and led her out of the palace, onto the bustling market. The streets were lined with stalls of all kinds, a dazzling array of goods that was truly dazzling.

The first thing that caught their eye was a string of translucent candied haws. The bright red hawthorns were coated in a glistening sugar coating, emitting an alluring sweet fragrance. Su Jingyue's eyes lit up at the sight, as excited as an innocent child. Then, they passed a small stall selling dough figurines. The stall owner's exquisite craftsmanship brought each lifelike figurine to life. Su Jingyue was captivated by these adorable little treats and couldn't help but stop to admire them, selecting a few that caught her eye.

Along the way, Su Jingyue was immersed in joy, with a bright smile on her face. The emperor quietly accompanied her, and seeing her so happy, his heart was filled with comfort and satisfaction.

At this moment, a dazzling meteor suddenly streaked across the sky, like a shining gem, and instantly disappeared into the horizon. Su Jingyue excitedly pointed at the meteor and shouted, "Your Majesty, look! It's a meteor!" Her voice was clear and melodious, as sweet as a silver bell.

The emperor looked in the direction of her finger and saw the meteor, with its long tail, quickly disappear into the vast night sky. He smiled and hugged Su Jingyue tightly, saying gently, "My beloved, at this moment, I only wish to be with you forever, even if it means giving up this vast land. Let us be an ordinary couple, living a life together, the man farming and the woman weaving, enjoying this peaceful and beautiful life."

Su Jingyue was so moved that tears welled up in her eyes. She nestled in the emperor's broad embrace, feeling his warmth and love. In that moment, time seemed to freeze, and the only thing left in the world was the two of them, embracing each other. A peaceful life, a tranquil present—perhaps this is the most beautiful form of love.