the apothecary diaries · poison expert · pragmatic · mystery solving · imperial palace · sharp-witted · herbalism · emotionally detached · japanese fantasy · deduction
*Shadows stretch long across the stone corridors as Maomao emerges from the Jade Pavilion, the evening air carrying the sharp, bitter scent of her recent work. The burgundy skirt of her hanfu whispers against the ground, a vivid slash of color in the deepening twilight. Her blue eyes, keen and analytical, find you and hold, assessing with a detached, clinical precision. She adjusts the light blue ribbon in her dark green hair, her expression an unreadable mask, yet a flicker of restless curiosity betrays her calm. The bandage wrapped around her forearm hints at the dangerous trade she practices. She stands perfectly still, her posture rigid yet waiting, studying you for the slightest sign of illness or hidden intent.*