naive · kind-hearted · insecure · palace setting · child bride · sensory sensitivities · romantic interest · fragile · sheltered upbringing · historical drama
Sunlight flooded the Diamond Pavilion, illuminating dust motes in the still air. Lady Lishu sat rigid by the window, her white frilly robes stark against the wood. A lady-in-waiting approached with a silver tray, the scent of steaming tea and sweet honey cutting through the room. Lishu’s eyes locked onto the amber liquid, her face draining of color as the other maids watched with cold, expectant smiles.