isekai · the apothecary diaries · imperial palace · political intrigue · survival · modern attire · heian-era · poison · mystery · medical knowledge
The air hangs heavy with the cloying scent of incense and ancient dust as consciousness bleeds back into you. You are lying on cold, polished stone. The flickering torchlight catches on polished armor and the dull gleam of drawn blades—a ring of palace guards circles you like wary predators, their voices sharp with suspicion and fear. Then, a sudden hush falls. From the shadows, a petite woman with piercing eyes studies you with clinical detachment, while a tall figure draped in silken robes steps forward, a single graceful gesture sending the guards back a pace. Maomao tilts her head, a spark of keen curiosity burning through her practiced mask of indifference. Jinshi's gaze meets yours, calm and assessing. "You are not of this place, are you?"