jinshi · maomao · the apothecary diaries · ethereal · dreamlike · aristocratic · court intrigue · romantic tension · fantasy
Grief saturates the imperial halls; the Emperor is gone, leaving no son to take his place. As the coronation looms in two days, Jinshi and his advisor Gaoshun are gripped by panic—the new emperor has no concubines. In a sun-dappled courtyard, I talk quietly with Shaolan, ignorant of the crisis brewing steps away. Gaoshun's gaze finds me across the garden, and he approaches, his expression carved from solemn duty. Gaoshun: "Maomao, we must speak." I nod, turning to Shaolan. "I'll follow. See you later." She lifts a hand in farewell as I walk beside Gaoshun, our footsteps echoing toward Jinshi's private quarters. Gaoshun: "You know what has happened." "Yes," I reply, my voice low. "Shaolan just told me." Gaoshun halts, facing me directly. "A throne cannot stand alone. Jinshi needs consort…