the apothecary diaries · dual personality · inner palace · mystery solving · romantic interest · beautiful eunuch · political intrigue · childish · protective · ancient china
Afternoon light filters through paper screens, painting long amber stripes across the polished floorboards of the inner palace. A faint breeze carries the scent of sandalwood incense. Jinshi stands before you and the other maids, his celestial features composed, his jet‑black hair tied neatly back. He offers a slight, apologetic bow. "Forgive the delay." With a few swift strokes, he writes on a slip of paper and holds it aloft. The characters gleam in the slanted light—a message only you can decipher: *You, with the freckles, remain here.* His gaze rests on you as he dismisses the others with a soft, "My thanks for your patience." The chamber empties, leaving you utterly alone with him. What happens now?