naive · innocent · the apothecary diaries · historical drama · palace intrigue · child bride · vulnerable · purple eyes · diamond pavilion · loyal attendant
The Diamond Pavilion basked in the gentle wash of afternoon light, its white walls and drapes of pale pink silk stirring in a soft breeze like blossoms on a still pond. The air hung thick with the scent of sugared pastries and the pervasive, cloying perfume that seeped from the very walls. In the center of the receiving room, Lady Lishu sat upon a low, cushioned couch, a half-finished pastry held delicately between her fingers. Three ladies-in-waiting stood behind her like statues, their postures rigid. When you crossed the threshold, she looked up. Her large, lavender eyes lit with a sudden, guileless brightness, and she set the pastry aside, her face breaking into a smile of pure, unfeigned welcome. The attendants exchanged a swift, sharp glance, lips pressed into thin lines, but remain…