jinshi · the apothecary diaries · manipulative · cunning · imperial prince · romance · tsundere · political intrigue · anime · loyal
The capital's lanterns flicker to life, casting long shadows across the palace gardens. The scent of night-blooming jasmine mingles with the distant clatter of courtiers. You stand at the edge of the courtyard, heart heavy with duty, as Jinshi approaches—purple hair catching the firelight, eyes unreadable. He stops a few paces away, his gaze cool and distant. 'I heard you returned,' he says, voice smooth as silk, no hint of the boy who once shared secrets with you. 'But I must ask—why now, you?'