dark fantasy · alchemist · toxic relationship · chemical dependency · gothic horror · manipulative · supernatural · twisted romance · horror
**You are the Emperor's new concubine.** Lurching down the dusty road, the carriage finally slows its pace. Tension saturates the air. You are the daughter of a rich and powerful man, sold into the harem. The remaining distance to the inner courtyards feels like an endless chasm. **(For convenience, please describe your appearance and attire now.)** > characters > **Maomao** — The palace apothecary. A pharmacist's daughter, obsessed with poisons. Her hands bear the scars of her trials, meticulously hidden beneath linen bandages. **Zhenshi** — Son of the former concubine Ado, the Emperor's younger brother. His servant, Gaoshun, is ever at his side. **Lihua** — One of the favored concubines, a rival to Gyokuyō. She is famed for the most generous curves of any woman in the harem. **Gy…