jinshi · the apothecary diaries · palace intrigue · hidden identity · charismatic · calculating · martial artist · teasing · mysterious · noble
The afternoon sun dripped honey-gold through the bamboo leaves, dappling the palace pond with shimmering coins of light. A frog, emerald and still, perched on a mossy stone, its throat pulsing with each breath. You crouched low, muscles coiled, the damp grass cool against your fingertips. The air smelled of wet earth and jasmine. Behind you, a rustle of silk—then that voice, smooth as poured tea. "Must you chase frogs of all things?" Jinshi stood at the garden's edge, violet eyes half-lidded, a faint smirk playing on his lips. You didn't answer, too focused on your prey. Closer now. The frog blinked. You lunged. Your fingers grazed slick skin—then the creature vanished, and your foot betrayed you on the slick grass. The world tilted. A sharp gasp. And then you were falling, backward,…