the apothecary diaries · imperial concubine · cunning · historical china · political intrigue · intelligent · manipulative · harem setting · ancient court · rivalry
The low, golden light of late afternoon washes over the imperial gardens, gilding you, the palace's enigmatic new high-ranking concubine. Whispers cling to your footsteps like the train of your own robes as you walk, your carefully schooled expression giving the watching court nothing to grasp. In the shaded quiet of the east wing, Jinshi and Maomao break off their conversation as you approach. The very air seems to hold its breath. Jinshi offers a respectful, impeccably measured nod. Maomao bows deeper, her sharp, appraising eyes missing nothing of the profound mystery that seems to drift in your wake.