The Legend of Concubine Su

The towering Imperial Palace, like a giant of history, towers over this land, its every brick and stone bearing the weight of countless years and power. Yet, even this symbol of supreme glory cannot conceal the lingering melancholy and loneliness that permeates its height. The Emperor, revered by all, quietly feels a deep curiosity and yearning for the lives of ordinary people. Thus, he decides to abandon his royal status and assume the persona of an ordinary man, embarking on an extraordinary journey of incognito visits.

The Emperor's entourage included not only his personal guards but also his three closest female companions: Imperial Consort Su Jingyue, Princess Shasha, the Nile Consort, and the dignified and virtuous Empress. The Emperor had deliberately changed into a simple robe and a conical hat, attempting to conceal his identity among the crowd. Though his attire had diminished his former majesty, his innate regal aura remained as radiant as a star, impossible to ignore.

The Empress wore a pale blue dress, its sleeves like the clear waters of early spring, gently rippling with freshness and elegance. The skirt was embroidered with delicate cloud patterns, the silk threads shimmering with a faint light, like drifting clouds in the sky. Her cuffs and neckline were studded with a dense ring of pearls, like strings of glittering dewdrops, emitting a soft luster.

Su Jingyue's pink silk dress was as gorgeous as blooming peach blossoms. Lifelike butterflies embroidered on the hem seemed to dance gracefully among the blossoms. The silk dress was light and soft, fluttering with her steps like petals in the breeze. A golden belt, inlaid with dazzling gems, shimmered with enchanting light, adding a touch of opulence to her outfit.

Princess Shasha, hailing from the banks of the Nile, exudes an exotic charm. Her deep eyes seem to see through people's hearts, and her graceful figure captivates everyone. During her time among the common people, she experiences this new world from her own unique perspective, experiencing a lifestyle distinct from that of the imperial palace.

As they entered the countryside, it felt like entering a whole new world. The bustling market, filled with the sounds of hawkers and bargaining, formed a vivid scene of urban life. The emperor observed his surroundings with curiosity, taking in the lively atmosphere and simple customs of the people. He occasionally stopped to chat with vendors, and sometimes smiled as he listened to the people's laughter and joy, his heart filled with love and longing for the lives of ordinary people.

The Empress observed the people's living conditions more carefully. She noticed that some families lived simply but were full of joy and happiness, while others, for various reasons, fell into difficult circumstances. A flicker of worry and sympathy flashed in the Empress's eyes, and she secretly resolved to do more to improve the people's living conditions.

Su Jingyue was completely absorbed in the exquisite handicrafts, wandering and admiring them, her gaze captivated. She would pick up a flower-embroidered handkerchief and examine it carefully, caressing the delicate stitching and feeling the soft texture, almost inhaling the fragrance of the flowers. Then she would try on a delicate pair of earrings and gaze at herself in the mirror, admiring her beautiful reflection and imagining how she would look with them on.

The emperor watched her every move with doting eyes, his eyes full of tenderness and love. From time to time, he would pick out some small gifts for her and hand them to Su Jingyue, hoping to win her favor. Su Jingyue took the gifts and was as happy as a child, with a happy smile on her face.

Concubine Ning and Princess Shasha, on the other hand, had a special fondness for local delicacies. They strolled among the food stalls, sampling a variety of delicious dishes. Concubine Ning savored each bite, taking in the flavors and aromas, often exclaiming in admiration. Princess Shasha, unabashedly enjoying the food, devoured it with a smile of contentment and happiness, as if she had found her own culinary paradise.

During their time among the common people, they encountered many fascinating people and stories. Kind old farmers recounted stories of the land and the joy of a bountiful harvest; clever vendors used their eloquence to promote their wares and share wisdom about life; and brave knights, upon seeing injustice, stood up for themselves, demonstrating the power and courage of common justice. These experiences gave the emperor and his companions a deeper understanding of the common people's suffering and joy, as well as the warmth and mutual support between people.

However, their journey was not without its challenges. Some with ill intentions noticed their unusual nature and attempted to harm them. However, thanks to the emperor's wisdom and decisiveness, and the unity and courage of the people, they repeatedly escaped danger, successfully protecting themselves and continuing their incognito journey. This experience not only gave the emperor a deeper understanding of the lives of the people, their sufferings and joys; it also made him cherish his responsibilities and mission as a king, as well as the family and friends who had accompanied him through thick and thin.

They stopped at a seemingly ordinary teahouse, bustling with activity, yet a sense of something strange was lurking within. The emperor, alert to the strange glances exchanged in the corners, grew wary. Just as he was about to quietly depart, a group of masked men suddenly entered, their atmosphere tense and threatening.

The Empress quickly regained her composure, a look of determination flashing in her eyes. She gently opened her red lips and, in an unquestionable tone, ordered the guards to escort the Emperor and the two concubines back to their retreat. She, in turn, cleverly utilized the layout of the teahouse to form a defensive line with several loyal guards, buying time for evacuation.

Although startled, Su Jingyue remained calm. She grasped the emperor's hand tightly, her eyes revealing an unwavering resolve. This resolve seemed to imbue the emperor with immense courage and strength, leaving him feeling a strange sense of security. Meanwhile, Princess Shasha was no less courageous, displaying the bravery and courage unique to the children of the Nile. She quickly drew the dagger she carried from her waist and gripped the hilt, ready to confront the enemy to the bitter end.

The Emperor, observing this, knew he could not sit still and wait for death. He quickly calmed himself, drawing on years of experience and wisdom to assess the situation. Then, decisively utilizing his familiarity with the terrain, he methodically directed his men's retreat toward a hidden alley. There, the Royal Guards, already ambushed, appeared like ghosts, their nimble figures and agile movements quickly engaging the pursuing enemy in a fierce battle.

For a moment, swords flashed, and shouts of killing echoed. The Royal Guards worked closely together, unleashing their immense power to keep the enemy at bay. After a thrilling battle, they finally managed to protect the Emperor, Su Jingyue, Princess Shasha, and the others.