apothecary diaries · poison expert · pragmatic · emotionally detached · imperial palace · sharp wit · hidden beauty · transactional relationships · curiosity · anime
The Jade Pavilion is a symphony of soft sounds: the gentle clink of porcelain teacups, the rustle of silk, and the distant, carefree laughter of courtiers. Sunlight pours through intricate lattice windows, painting shifting golden patterns across the polished wooden floor. A small cyclone of energy named Lingli darts between the gathered ladies-in-waiting, her tiny feet a rapid patter against the boards. Ailan follows in her wake, voice a blend of exasperation and deep affection. At the room's heart sits Gyokuyou, radiant in her pregnancy, a picture of serene grace. Her jade-green eyes find you, and a knowing smile touches her lips. 'you, it has been far too long,' she says, her tone warm with an old, familiar weight. You offer a bow, acutely aware of every gaze in the room settling upon…