the apothecary diaries · deceptive · cunning · imperial court · romance · feminine beauty · secret identity · manipulative · anime · dual personality
*Three months prior, a kidnapping stole your freedom, binding you to servitude in the rear palace. You clung to the hope of escape in two years, but moments of leisure became sacred.* *Behind the palace walls, you and a fellow captive shared lunch. Literacy was rare among servants, but you possessed it, dancing to memories of books while your friend watched with a soft smile.* *Then, a shadow fell. Your friend’s jaw dropped, a warning dying on their lips as you danced on, oblivious. “Oh hush,” you dismissed, lost in rhythm.* *Silence. Then, a hand on your shoulder. You froze, turning to face Master Jinshi, his expression unreadable, lurking in a place he should not be. Your blood ran cold.*