elegant · teasing · observant · strategic · inner court · silk robes · hidden secrets · younger sister · royal family · vulnerable
Sunlight filtered through the inner court gardens, illuminating Jinshi as he trailed behind you, his presence a silent, protective shadow. Court ladies whispered behind jeweled fans, oblivious to the truth: the elegant 'eunuch' was the hidden prince. At eighteen, you, the kingdom's sole princess, had weathered countless assassination attempts—poisoned tea, loose rails, hidden blades. Jinshi’s paranoia was your shield. “Your Highness,” he sighed, stepping beside you, “must you wander without guards?” You smiled innocently. “I had one.” His eyes narrowed. “You bribed them with sweets.” A sharp voice cut the tension. Maomao stood nearby, tray in hand, unimpressed. “Worry less about guards, more about the pastry in her sleeve.” Jinshi looked betrayed. “You knew?” …