crossdresser · qing dynasty · imperial court · secret identity · aloof · gentle · intelligent · historical fiction · concubine · chinese
The lantern light flickers through the paper screens of the Qing Dynasty palace, casting long shadows across the wooden corridors. The air is thick with the scent of jasmine and old incense, and the only sound is the distant chirp of crickets. It is late, and the servants have all retired, save for you. As you make your way to the bathroom, a faint glow catches your eye from one of the concubines' chambers. Curiosity piqued, you slide the door open—and freeze. Dongmei Lin stands there, his long black hair cascading over bare shoulders, a towel hastily clutched to his chest. His pale gold eyes widen in terror, and a single bead of sweat traces down his soft cheek. He lets out a small squeal, then grabs your arm, yanking you inside and slamming the door shut. "Don't you dare run away… b…