The Legend of Concubine Su

Outside the capital, an unprecedented and catastrophic flood surged in like a wild horse, sweeping across the earth with ruthless force, mercilessly swallowing up the homes and the light of hope that countless people depended on for their survival. The once bustling and flourishing villages were instantly submerged in the vast sea of water, turning into a horrible water town.

In the flooded areas, houses collapsed like candles in the wind, and fertile fields were completely swallowed up by the surging river. The people were forced to leave their homes and wander around. The miserable cries and desperate shouts came one after another, intertwined with each other, and together formed a heartbreaking and shocking picture of hell on earth.

After hearing the tragic news, the emperor, who was far away in the depths of the Forbidden City, felt as if his heart was being cut by thousands of sharp blades. The pain was unbearable and he tossed and turned all night, unable to fall asleep. Even the delicacies he usually ate had no appetite. He felt extremely sad and heartbroken about the severe suffering endured by the common people.

Yet, at this critical moment, deep within the harem resided a remarkable woman, one who stood out from the crowd. This woman was none other than the favored Imperial Concubine, Su Jingyue. Faced with this unforeseen natural and man-made disaster, she did not, like other concubines, seek comfort and resignation within the palace. Instead, she stepped forward without hesitation and with unwavering determination. She understood deeply that she was not merely a pampered concubine, but a key figure in the fate of the entire harem; she also understood the heavy responsibility and mission that lay upon her shoulders.

Driven by this strong sense of mission, Su Jingyue made up her mind to go to the disaster-stricken areas in person to give sincere warmth and meticulous care to those lonely, homeless and poor children.

Entering the Emperor's chambers, Su Jingyue's every step seemed to carry a heavy weight, yet her steps were firm and powerful, without the slightest hesitation or retreat. Her beautiful face now seemed particularly solemn, like a silent mountain, revealing an unshakable determination. Her beautiful eyes shone with a resolute light, like the brightest stars in the night sky, gleaming brightly.

Finally reaching the Emperor, Su Jingyue slowly knelt, her movements graceful and dignified. Though her voice was soft, it resounded like thunder throughout the palace, its power visibly shocking. "I have a request, Your Majesty, and I beg Your Majesty to grant it. Floods are raging outside the capital, and the people are suffering terribly. Especially those poor children, who have lost the protection of their parents, left alone and helpless. I cannot bear to see these innocent lives suffer so much, so I beg Your Majesty to allow me to leave the palace and personally care for these lovely children, bringing them even the slightest comfort and hope."

As the Emperor listened to Su Jingyue's earnest words, an indescribable wave of mixed emotions welled up within him. He certainly understood Su Jingyue's kindness and inherent resilience, but he was also deeply concerned about the numerous hardships and dangers she might face on her journey to the disaster zone. He couldn't help but hold Su Jingyue's hands tightly, his eyes filled with heartache and reluctance. "My beloved, how could I not know your sincere heart? However, the situation in the disaster zone is complex and unpredictable. How could I bear to let you endure such hardships?"

However, Su Jingyue shook her head without hesitation and determination, her action decisive and resolute, without the slightest hesitation. Her beautiful eyes were now gleaming with an incomparable determination and courage, as if they contained endless strength and courage. She parted her red lips and spoke slowly, "Your Majesty, the ancients once said: 'Respect the old as your own, and the young as your own.' Although I am a member of the inner court, how can I turn a blind eye to the hardships endured by the common people? Today, the country is in a turbulent time and faces numerous crises. As the saying goes, the rise and fall of the country is the responsibility of every man! As your concubine, I should stand up and share your worries and solve your problems!"

The emperor was deeply moved upon hearing these words. He gazed deeply at this gentle, virtuous, yet righteous woman before him, and an indescribable feeling welled up in his heart. Finally, the emperor nodded slightly, agreeing to Su Jingyue's request. Su Jingyue, overjoyed, knelt to express her gratitude, tears welling in her eyes. Then, she hurriedly excused herself to make preparations for her departure.

After returning to her bedroom, Su Jingyue quickly shed her elegant and luxurious imperial concubine's attire and donned a simple, practical, and durable coarse cloth outfit, carefully dressing up as a housewife from an ordinary wealthy family. She knew that only in this way could she better penetrate the disaster area, get close to the suffering people, truly stand in solidarity with them, and work hand in hand with them to overcome these extremely difficult times.

Amidst the devastation and devastation of the disaster-stricken area, Su Jingyue was like a ray of warm light, illuminating the world of those helpless orphans. Not only did she tirelessly prepare ample food for these pitiful children, freeing them from the pain of hunger, she also meticulously arranged comfortable shelter, providing them with a safe haven. Even more commendable, with her ardent love and extraordinary patience, she meticulously cared for each child, soothing their wounded hearts with gentle words.

To make the children feel at home, Su Jingyue personally prepared delicious egg pancakes for them. As the alluring aroma filled the air, innocent smiles blossomed on the children's faces. She would also put aside all her fatigue and worries and wholeheartedly accompany the children in their playful activities. In those moments, it was as if time had stopped, and only laughter and joy filled the air.

As the days passed, the children grew fonder of this gentle and kind Aunt Su. Like a flock of cheerful little birds, they flocked around Su Jingyue, savoring their precious moments of joy. And Su Jingyue always responded to the children's enthusiasm with a smile, passing on more love to them.

Yet, on one ordinary yet extraordinary day, a little orphan, barely two years old, quietly nestled in Su Jingyue's warm embrace, suddenly whispered, "Mother..." This tender yet deeply affectionate call was like a thunderbolt, striking Su Jingyue's already tender heart. Instantly, she froze as if struck by lightning, tears welling uncontrollably in her eyes. She stared blankly at the innocent yet adorable child in her arms, her life filled with a surge of indescribable love and unbearable pain. She knew, deep in this young heart, that she had become his mother, his only true support. Su Jingyue felt both comforted and burdened by this heavy responsibility, but no matter what, she was determined to protect this child with all her strength and give him a future filled with love.

At that moment, Su Jingyue deeply felt the greatness and selflessness of a mother's love. She understood that she was not only providing warmth and care to these orphans, but also demonstrating the true meaning of a mother's love through her actions. She would remain in the disaster area, using her love and courage to support these innocent children and let them feel the warmth and hope of the world.