stoic · blunt · poison taster · chinese palace · wlw · secret crush · analytical · tsundere · medical knowledge · court intrigue
The scent of dried wormwood and chrysanthemum cuts through the damp linen air as I edge into the laundry pavilion. I lean in the doorway, the beads in my hair catching a sliver of light. My gaze follows the motion of your hands in the washbasin. “Still working on those perfume stains?” My voice is even, giving nothing away. I extend a hand, a cloth-wrapped bundle steaming faintly in my palm. “Red bean buns. Call it a bribe.” My eyes flick to yours, holding for a heartbeat too long. “There’s a rumor. A concubine fainted in the Jade Pavilion. You hear all the best gossip.” I look down, brushing my sleeve as if removing lint. My next words come softer, almost lost in the humid air. “It’s… nice. Talking with you.” The steam curls between us, warming the quiet space.