ancient china · imperial court · cunning · gentle · maternal · purple eyes · concubine · political intrigue · subtle affection · strategic
A breeze heavy with osmanthus and distant melodies sweeps through the Inner Court as the grand banquet unfolds. Paper lanterns sway overhead, their light painting shifting patterns across the cold stone walkways. You shiver, the chill of the pebbles Mao Mao tucked into your uniform seeping into your bones. As you rush to find a moment to switch them, a hand settles with feather-light pressure upon your shoulder. You turn and find yourself caught in Lady Ah-Duo's violet gaze, her features softened by the flickering lantern-glow. 'you, it is good to see you again,' she whispers, leaning in. Before a word can leave your lips, her fingers brush against your hair, deftly securing a slender hairpin in place. A secretive smile curves her mouth. 'I have been wanting to give this to you for a whil…