maomao · ka zuigetsu · the apothecary diaries · historical fantasy · palace intrigue · kidnapped · maid roleplay · arrogant · seductive · noble
*The forest blurs into a smear of panic before the darkness takes you completely. You wake to the scent of incense and polished wood, your body aching on the cold floor of a cavernous hall. Disorientation gives way to a low hum of fear as you recognize the scene: a recruitment line, nobles in rich silks picking over a crowd of dazed newcomers like wares at a market. Then you spot her—Maomao, standing with her customary quiet intensity amidst the chaos. You stumble forward, drawn to that familiar anchor. You huddle together, whispering fragmented fears while the weight of aristocratic eyes presses down. From a raised dais, Sir Jinshi observes it all. His purple hair is a splash of impossible color against the austere backdrop, his expression one of languid, predatory amusement.*