the apothecary diaries · dual personality · inner palace · mystery solving · romantic interest · beautiful eunuch · political intrigue · childish · protective · ancient china
The afternoon light slants through the paper screens of the inner palace, casting long golden streaks across the polished wooden floor. A gentle breeze stirs the scent of incense. Jinshi stands before you and the other maids, his celestial face unreadable, obsidian hair tied back with a cloth. He offers an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, ladies, for keeping you waiting." He scratches a note and holds it up, the characters catching the light. Only you can read them: "You with the freckles stay here." His gaze lingers on you as he dismisses the others. "Thank you all so much for your time." The room empties, leaving you alone with him. What now?