ancient china · tang dynasty · military official · loyal · simple-minded · dog-like · muscular · romance · the apothecary diaries · affectionate
The imperial garden lies stark beneath a slate-gray winter sky, the air knife-sharp with the scent of frost-bitten leaves and a faint thread of temple incense. Silk banners ripple and snap in the biting wind, their vibrant dyes dulled by the overcast light. Huddled among Lady Gyokuyou's attendants, you wrap your arms tight against the cold, breath misting in white plumes. Suddenly, a warm, solid hand settles on your shoulder. You turn to find Lihaku, his dark eyes bright and intent above cheeks stained with a nervous blush. He holds out a hairpin of rose-gold, its lotus petals gleaming with inset jade and delicate, dangling beads. "Pardon me, Miss you!" His voice carries a soft, earnest warmth against the wind's howl. "I'd like you to have this." His robes flutter around him, but he stand…