The Legend of Concubine Su

In the distant and mysterious land of the Mengwushiwei, sunlight always seems to possess an indescribable gentleness. It penetrates layers of clouds and gently brushes across Princess Lishu's desk like a fine thread, gilding the pristine wooden surface with a faint golden glow. Princess Lishu, a treasure of the Mengwushiwei people, sits at her desk, her fingers gently caressing the bone-carved quill, the tip already saturated with thick ink, as if ready to carry the endless thoughts and emotions within her heart.

Her eyes gleamed with boundless longing and anticipation for the future, a vision that transcended personal emotion and concerned the fate of the nation and peace. She slowly unfolded a sheet of silken rice paper, the paper itself seemingly bearing the weight of her heart. Every word and sentence embodied her heartfelt and sincere request: "Father, your Majesty, I, Princess Manlin of the Mengwu Shiwei, have longed for the culture of the Central Plains since childhood. My thirst for knowledge and love of art are like a spring flowing freely from the grasslands. Even more deeply admired is His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of the Central Plains. His wisdom and benevolence are like the shining stars, illuminating my heart. I boldly offer my marriage to His Royal Highness in the name of peace and harmony, not only for my own happiness, but also for the mutual ties between our two countries, to create a future of peace and prosperity together."

Like a carrier pigeon carrying hopes and dreams, this letter traveled thousands of miles, overcoming countless hardships and dangers, finally arriving at the magnificent imperial palace. The emperor took the letter, startled by its weight. He knew it was more than just a simple request for marriage; it served as a crucial link in the diplomatic relationship between the Mongol Shiwei and the Central Plains. He slowly unfolded the letter, perusing it carefully, his brow furrowing slightly, a mixture of emotions welling up within him.

He was well aware of the deep affection between Crown Prince Yuan Cong and his wife, Han Xinxin, a love steeped in time and a cherished legend within the royal family. Faced with this sudden marriage proposal, he felt an unprecedented dilemma and turmoil. However, as the ruler of a nation, he must prioritize the greater good and make decisions based on the long-term interests of his nation.

After careful consideration, the Emperor decided to personally visit Su Jingyue's chambers and lay the matter bare. With brisk steps, he passed through the palace gates and arrived at the quiet and elegant palace. He found Su Jingyue sitting upright by the window, holding an ancient book, her expression focused and serene, as if detached from the world. The Emperor slowly approached her and softly called, "My beloved, I have something to tell you."

Su Jingyue looked up at the voice and saw that it was the Emperor himself. She quickly stood and saluted. The Emperor handed her the letter, and the heavy weight seemed to be transferred to her hands. She took it and read it carefully, a complex emotion crossing her face. She knew the weight of this letter and the meaning behind it. She looked up at the Emperor's worried eyes, and she had a plan in mind.

"Your Majesty, this matter is of grave importance. I must consult with Yuan Cong before making a final decision," Su Jingyue said after a moment's hesitation. Her voice, though calm, revealed a firmness and resolve. The Emperor nodded, expressing his understanding and respect for her decision. He was well aware of the deep bond between Su Jingyue and Yuan Cong, their shared determination and wisdom in facing difficulties together. He believed that no matter the outcome, they would make the wisest choice for the greater good.

Thus, a profound discussion quietly unfolded within the imperial court, weighing the interests of the nation against personal feelings. Su Jingyue and Yuan Cong sat by candlelight, conferring a plan for a solution. They considered both the long-term interests of the nation and their deepest feelings for each other. After careful consideration, they decided to approach the marriage with an open mind, seeking a solution that would preserve national peace without hurting their feelings.

During this turmoil, the royal family members demonstrated extraordinary wisdom and courage, and their actions demonstrated what true loyalty and responsibility were. The friendly relationship between the Mengwu Shiwei and the Central Plains was further consolidated and developed in this test.

Finally, on a bright, sunny day, Princess Manlin of the Mongol Shiwei embarked on a journey to the Central Plains for a marriage alliance, filled with longing and anticipation for an unknown future. She was clad in a magnificent gown, seemingly woven from the most brilliant clouds of the heavens. Atop her head, a shimmering golden crown sat securely. Atop it, soaring plumes, like the wings of a phoenix, proudly stood tall, proclaiming the supreme majesty and respect of the imperial family. The golden crown resembled the brightest star in the night sky, its jewels gleaming with dazzling brilliance, each radiating an aura of boundless luxury. Brocade and colored silk flowed gracefully through her hair like the dance of fairies, as if embodying the beauty of the entire world. She seemed a celestial being descended from a fairyland, a beauty that captivated the world.

Then there's her long-sleeved gown, meticulously embroidered with intricate patterns and designs, as if nature's finest masterpieces have been skillfully incorporated. Sequins and gemstones are meticulously arranged throughout the gown, radiating a dazzling brilliance like a cluster of stars, illuminating everything around her with every movement. The hem of her gown, flowing to the ground, resembles a river of golden light, complementing the equally magnificent silk scarf she holds. The scarf is embroidered with a variety of vividly animated birds, animals, and flowers, depicting them in playful scenes or at ease, as if they possess life, imbuing the wearer with a vibrant feeling.

She also wore a series of exquisite jewelry: a metal bracelet wrapped around her wrist, shimmering with a cold and mysterious luster; a necklace inlaid with gold thread hung on her chest like a galaxy, dotted with dazzling gems, adding a touch of nobility and elegance; and a pair of sparkling gemstone earrings swayed gracefully, making a crisp and pleasant sound when gently swayed, as if telling of the owner's extraordinary life story. All these accessories showed off her noble temperament and extraordinary charm, making her the focus of everyone's attention and unforgettable.

Accompanied by Mongol Shiwei envoys, Princess Manlin arrived at the Zhongyuan Imperial Palace. She gracefully entered the hall and paid a solemn obeisance to the Emperor, Empress, and Imperial Consort Su Jingyue. At that moment, her heart was filled with anticipation and longing for the future. She knew she was about to embark on a new journey in life, one that would be closely linked to the Crown Prince of Zhongyuan, writing their own legendary story together.

The Emperor and Empress exchanged a smile, expressing their deepest admiration for Princess Manlin's elegance and grace. The Empress personally stepped forward, took Princess Manlin's hand, and said tenderly, "Princess, you have come from such afar. It is truly a blessing for the Central Plains. I hope you will feel at home here, and together with Yuan Cong, write a new chapter of peace between our two countries."

Su Jingyue also stepped forward, offering a gentle welcome. She knew that, despite her inner turmoil, the greater good was paramount, and she was willing to accept this future family member with an open mind. She whispered to Princess Manlin, "Princess, you are exceptionally talented. I believe you and Yuan Cong can support each other and build a beautiful future together."