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Chapter Text

Lady Kan was the perfect princess of the La Clan.

Soft-spoken. Veiled. Enigmatic.

In the court she moved like drifting silk, her every word measured, her laughter light and deliberate. Nobles found themselves charmed before realising they had revealed more than intended. From her father she learned strategy; from her mother, etiquette; from the Verdigris House, the art of smiling sweetly while calculating three moves ahead.

Maomao, however, was tired.

And she would be damned if she did not secure at least one reprieve before being handed off to some nauseatingly wealthy noble for the sake of “alliances.”

The reception hall of the La residence glowed crimson and gold in the late afternoon light. Incense curled lazily upward from bronze burners. Fengxian stood near the lacquered table, posture flawless, expression carved from jade.

“Maomao being a part of this family is your life,” her mother said evenly, though the tightness in her fingers around her sleeve betrayed irritation. “Not some occupation you may abandon when fatigue takes you.”

The only reason she was not shouting was because Lakan and Lahan were present.

Maomao knelt properly, spine straight, attempting to hide the faint curl of her lip. Her voice emerged calm and respectful.

“Mother, with all due respect, I am not abandoning anything. I merely request a short reprieve before I meet the man I am expected to spend the remainder of my life beside.”

What she wanted to say was: I do not wish to marry some perfumed imbecile twice my age.

Her mother’s eyes narrowed slightly.

Ah. Perhaps she had let some of that slip into her tone.

A bad habit.

“Fengxian,” Lakan drawled from his seat, idly turning a go stone between his fingers. “Surely, we may entertain the girl’s suggestion. She has performed admirably these past years.”

The glance Fengxian sent him could have cracked stone.

“She spends half her life at the Verdigris House,” Fengxian replied sharply. “Is that not freedom enough?”

Maomao’s hands folded tighter in her sleeves.

“Given Father’s… occupational hazards,” she said smoothly, “the Verdigris House has never felt particularly restful.”

Silence.

Even Lahan paused adjusting his spectacles.

Maomao continued before her mother could interrupt.

“I am not seeking escape. Only perspective. A different corner of court life. Surely that is not an unreasonable request, from either of you.”

Fengxian’s answer was immediate.

“No.”

Lakan exhaled a long, theatrical sigh and dragged a hand down his face as though caught between two rival generals.

“I will consider it,” he said at last. “You will have my decision by dinner.”

That was not a refusal.

Maomao bowed with flawless grace, rose, and departed before her mother could resume her glare. Her steps remained measured until she cleared the corridor.

Then she walked much faster.

~ * ~

Her garden lay tucked behind the estate walls, hidden from the main pathways. Here the air smelled of damp soil and crushed leaves rather than incense.

Lady Kan disappeared the moment Maomao stepped into the dirt.

She knelt among her plants, sleeves tied back, fingers deftly examining the underside of narrow leaves. A row of newly sprouted herbs caught her attention. Toxic in sufficient quantities. Irritating in lesser doses.

Useful.

As she carefully uprooted one plant for drying, her thoughts drifted.

The Verdigris House.

The rattling carts that arrived without warning.

The weeks, sometimes months, she was spirited away while her father dealt with enemies under the former emperor’s reign.

She had understood the logic even then.

Understanding did not make it pleasant.

At least Luoman had been there.

Her grand uncle’s quiet lessons, the careful grinding of powders, the scent of medicinal smoke, those memories steadied her pulse even now. Poisons were honest. Predictable. Unlike people.

“Sister!”

She did not flinch.

“What is it, Lahan?” she replied without turning.

He stood at the edge of the garden path, robes pristine, expression hovering somewhere between smug and analytical.

“What a cold greeting for your honoured elder brother.”

“Lady Kan has manners,” she replied, brushing soil from a root. “Maomao does not.”

He adjusted his glasses.

“I have spoken with Father regarding your proposal.”

That earned him her attention. She rose slowly, dusting off her hands.

“And?”

“He is considering it.” Lahan folded his sleeves behind his back, posture mimicking their father’s. “However, you know how he plays his games. If you are granted this ‘break,’ it will not be without purpose. I suggest you accept whatever conditions he sets.”

And with that ominous statement, he left.

Maomao stared at the herbs in her hand.

Her father never moved a piece without planning five consequences.

This would not be simple.

A slow smile tugged at her lips as she laid the harvested plants aside.

All the more interesting.

~ * ~

Dinner was held beneath towering red pillars trimmed in gold. The La Clan estate was vast, yet its dining hall always felt too large for its dwindling members.

Lakan spoke animatedly about his day, referring to ministers as “rook” and “bishop” equivalents, never by name. Lahan occasionally interjected with precise numerical assessments. Fengxian observed every movement at the table with hawk-like vigilance.

Maomao ate properly. Gracefully. Politely.

And imagined hypothetical poisons that could induce temporary illness without permanent damage.

“Maomao.”

Her father’s tone shifted.

She set down her chopsticks.

“Yes, Father?”

“I have considered your request.” He leaned back slightly. “You may have your break.”

Her pulse did not quicken.

Outwardly.

“However,” he continued, “it will be under my conditions.”

Of course.

“You will enter the rear palace as a serving girl.”

The clatter of Fengxian’s utensils rang sharply against porcelain.

“That is absurd,” her mother snapped. “A serving contract lasts two years. She will be nineteen!”

“I am aware.” Lakan’s voice remained mild. “The Verdigris House is no longer secure. My enemies have grown more creative.”

Maomao stilled.

That was new information.

“The rear palace,” Lakan continued, “is ironically safer. Assassins hesitate where imperial scrutiny is strongest. And if poison is involved…” His gaze flicked to his daughter knowingly. “She is more prepared than most.”

Fengxian’s jaw tightened, but she did not argue further.

“Secondly,” Lakan said, “you will write to me weekly. Any rumour, any unusual movement. You will report it.”

So that was the true game.

Information.

Power.

“I understand,” Maomao replied. “How am I to send these letters without exposing myself?”

“There is a eunuch allied to us. He handles supply deliveries. You will pass correspondence through him.”

Her father’s eyes sharpened.

“Do you accept?”

Two years.

Two years without marriage negotiations.

Two years beyond her mother’s relentless ambitions.

“I accept,” she said calmly.

“Good. Lahan will oversee the paperwork.”

Of course he would.

She inclined her head.

“Yes, Father.”

~ * ~

The Parlor smelled faintly of lavender when Maomao entered carrying a tea tray. She set a cup of green tea before Lahan and kept the lavender-lemon blend for herself.

“Shall we begin?” Lahan asked, already preparing ink.

“Try not to make it insufferable.”

He smirked.

“Fortunately, your name was never registered formally, so we will be able to keep your first name.”

“And the family listed on my contract?”

“There is a merchant household Father owes a favour to.” His tone dimmed slightly. “We will state they sold you into service.”

“How charming.”

“Backstory?”

She took a slow sip of tea.

“They were struggling. I was illiterate and of not enough use to them.”

“Literate increases pay.”

“Illiterate reduces scrutiny.”

Their eyes met. He conceded.

“Very well.”

Brush met paper.

“Maomao.”

Her mother stood in the doorway, still adorned in crimson silk and gold hairpieces. She had not yet retired.

“There is a banquet in two days,” Fengxian said. “Hosted by His Majesty. All named clans will attend.”

A final attempt.

A final opportunity to parade Lady Kan before eligible men.

“Your presence is required.”

Maomao set her cup down gently.

“Of course, Mother.”

Her voice was smooth as polished jade.

Her expression was unreadable.

One more performance.

Then the rear palace.

And whatever mysteries awaited there.

Chapter Text

Lady Kan stood before the polished bronze mirror in her chambers.

Her chambers were far less suffocating than the rest of the La residence. No heavy incense burned tonight. Instead, bundles of drying herbs hung discreetly near the window, tied with thin red thread. Small ceramic jars lined one shelf, each labelled in precise handwriting. A mortar and pestle rested on her low table beside a folded silk handkerchief stained faintly green from crushed leaves.

The faint bitter scent of herbs lingered in the air, sharp, grounding. Just the way she liked it.

Comforting.

Tonight was the banquet. Tomorrow, she would leave for the rear palace.

Excitement was not something Lady Kan allowed to show. But beneath the silk layers of her composure, Maomao felt it clearly. Two years of relative freedom. Two years away from marriage negotiations. Two years inside the most dangerous and fascinating place in the empire.

A soft knock interrupted her thoughts.

“My Lady,” Xiaolan called as she entered, bowing awkwardly beneath the weight of silk and hair ornaments balanced in her arms.

Maomao’s eye twitched.

“For the last time, Xiaolan,” she said, turning from the mirror, “while we are alone, refer to me as Maomao.”

Xiaolan had been with her for years, since the day her struggling family agreed to send her away to lighten their burden. They had grown together. Learned together.

Maomao had hoped they were more than mistress and servant.

“Apologies, my la-  Maomao,” Xiaolan corrected quickly, nearly dropping a bundle of fabric in her haste.

Maomao exhaled through her nose.

“If we are entering the rear palace together, you will treat me as a colleague,” Maomao continued, stepping forward to relieve her of the heaviest piece. “Not your mistress.”

“Yes, Maomao.”

“And stop bowing.”

Xiaolan straightened immediately, stiff as a board.

Maomao sighed and turned her attention to the garments.

The dress was… excessive.

The outer robe was a gradient of forest green fading into jade, embroidered with subtle silver threading that caught the lantern light like dew. The sleeves were wide and flowing, lined with pale silk that shimmered when turned. The sash was darker, tied in an intricate knot that would take Xiaolan nearly ten minutes to perfect. At least Mother had chosen well this time. The silver hair sticks were delicate, shaped like slender branches tipped with tiny blossoms. They were understated compared to Fengxian’s preferred gold ornaments.

Green suited her. It softened her presence without diminishing it.

She dressed methodically, allowing Xiaolan to fasten clasps and smooth pleats. Her hair was arranged half-up, the silver ornaments catching the lamplight. Finally, she lifted her matching green veil and secured it over the lower half of her face.

The first time she wore a veil, she had been seven years old.

~ * ~

It had been white silk then, too large for her small face, embroidered with tiny plum blossoms along the edge. The fabric tickled her cheeks, and she kept pushing it away with impatient fingers.

Fengxian had adjusted it twice before kneeling down to her height.

The room had smelled of incense that day, suffocatingly sweet. Servants moved in quiet patterns behind them, laying out robes for a court gathering Maomao had no interest in attending.

“Hold still,” Fengxian had murmured, voice unusually soft as she smoothed the silk back into place. “You must not fidget.”

“I can’t breathe properly,” young Maomao had muttered.

“You can,” her mother corrected gently. “You simply do not like it.”

That had been true.

She did not like fabric between herself and the world.

She did not like being hidden.

“It is for your protection,” Fengxian had said at last.

Protection. The word had seemed noble. Important.

That same month, she had been shaken awake before dawn.

No explanation. No warning. Her nurse had wrapped her quickly; veil included and escorted her to a waiting carriage.

The door had closed. The wheels had begun to turn. Protection had rattled over stone roads and through city gates. Protection had meant weeks at the Verdigris House.

~ * ~

Now, as she secured the green silk across her lower face, she did not think of protection. She thought of control. If no one knew her face, they could not read it. If they could not read it, they could not predict her. And if they could not predict her, they would always be one move behind.

The mask settled into place. An extra layer between herself and the world.

Last came the makeup.

She sat before the polished mirror. Her reflection stared back, composed, unreadable. She lined her eyes carefully, elongating their shape slightly, giving her gaze a softer appearance than it truly possessed. When she reached for lipstick, her fingers paused briefly before selecting the small ceramic container she had prepared the previous evening.

All natural ingredients.

All tested.

“Xiaolan,” she said lightly while applying the tint, “do you know my favourite quality of poison?”

Xiaolan blinked. “No, Maomao. What is it?”

Lady Kan, or perhaps Maomao let a smile slip hidden by her veil. “The many interesting ways one may persuade an enemy to ingest it.”

Xiaolan stared at her reflection in the mirror.

Maomao only adjusted the veil.

~ * ~

The carriage ride was mercifully quiet. Lantern light filtered through the thin curtains, casting soft gold patterns across the interior. The wheels rattled against stone as the estate faded behind them.

Lahan sat across from her, spectacles glinting faintly in the lantern light, fingers tapping absently against his sleeve, calculating something no doubt.

He had chaperoned her to these events for years. Dutiful. Observant. Inconvenient. Fortunately, he was predictable. The carriage slowed, then stopped.

Maomao inhaled once behind her veil.

Lady Kan emerged.

Outside, lanterns illuminated the grand hall in blazing red and gold. Musicians’ melodies drifted outward. Nobles stepped from carriages dressed in jewels and silk, all smiles sharpened into weapons. Her parents stepped from their own carriage just ahead. Fengxian’s posture was impeccable; Lakan already appeared distracted, eyes scanning for political movement like pieces across a board.

“Sister,” Lahan murmured as they approached the entrance, “try not to make a scene. Reputation takes years to build and moments to dismantle.”

“I am intimately familiar with the mechanics of reputation,” she replied lazily.

One final barb before the performance began.

They entered the hall.

The space was vast, towering pillars wrapped in gold spirals, arrangements of elaborate flowers placed with calculated opulence. Incense drifted upward in pale streams, diluted by the sheer size of the room. Musicians played softly near the far wall.

Lady Kan let her gaze wander, serene and unhurried.

Some of the floral arrangements were unfamiliar species. Decorative, most likely harmless, perhaps poisonous. though she made a mental note to inspect them later if opportunity allowed. Tables were arranged in careful tiers around the hall. Servants moved silently, trays balanced expertly.

Lakan vanished almost immediately to pay respects to His Majesty. Fengxian followed with measured steps.

Lahan guided her toward the centre of the hall.

A servant passed carrying a tray of wine.

Maomao’s eyes lingered on it for a fraction too long.

She had long been forbidden from drinking at banquets. The veil complicated matters, and though she could sip discreetly beneath it, even a fleeting glimpse of her face would cause chaos.

If she could not drink, neither would Lahan.

He was, fortunately, intolerant to alcohol.

Lahan was soon absorbed into discussion with a cluster of older ministers. Lady Kan remained slightly behind him, posture perfect, eyes lowered modestly listening.

Women were expected to speak only when addressed. That suited her. Her gaze drifted. A familiar face caught her attention.

Ah.

A minister associated with a faction quietly opposed to her father. Suspected but never proven of facilitating information leaks.

He noticed her looking.

And began walking over.

How convenient.

She ensured Lahan was fully distracted before turning back, sleeves lifting gracefully as she bowed when the man approached.

“Lady Kan,” he said warmly. “A pleasure as always. You look exquisite tonight.”

He was polished. Too polished. His smile did not reach his eyes.

“Your kindness honours me,” she replied softly, tilting her head just enough.

He extended a glass of wine toward her.

“I see your brother has yet to fetch you a drink. Please, allow me.”

Internally, she sighed.

There was a reason she rarely accepted drinks and it was not fear of poison. Many believed harming her would destabilise Lakan. Few understood how little they knew about her. Thankfully, she was prepared this time

“Thank you,” she said, accepting the glass.

With practiced grace, she slipped it beneath her veil and took a small sip. The flavour bloomed across her tongue. Sweet. Not poisoned, unfortunately. She lowered the glass slightly.

“Ah… it is stronger than I anticipated,” she murmured. “Would you mind finishing it? I would hate to waste such a fine vintage.”

There it was, the hesitation. Improper to drink from the same cup. But useful, if one wished to imply closeness.

“I would be honoured,” he said smoothly.

He took the glass. Drank. And excused himself. Maomao folded her hands neatly before her and waited.

~ * ~

From across the grand hall, Lakan appeared engaged in conversation with two ministers. His posture was relaxed, expression faintly amused. But he was not listening to them. His gaze, though subtle, tracked his daughter’s entrance.

Lady Kan moved through the hall like flowing ink. Measured steps. Neither hurried nor languid. Her sleeves swayed in deliberate rhythm, silver catching the lantern glow without glaring.

She did not look at anyone directly. Yet everyone looked at her.

Fengxian followed his line of sight.

“She draws attention even when she tries not to,” Fengxian murmured.

Lakan’s lips twitched. “She is not trying not to.”

Fengxian’s eyes sharpened. “She should not enjoy this.”

“Enjoy?” Lakan repeated lightly.

Across the hall, Lady Kan paused briefly to greet a minor noble. Her bow was flawless. Her tone, though unheard from this distance, was undoubtedly sweet.

“She calculates,” Lakan corrected. “Enjoyment is incidental.”

Fengxian folded her hands into her sleeves. “She grows bolder.”

“She grows capable.”

Their daughter shifted position subtly, placing herself at a vantage point where she could observe three clusters of ministers simultaneously.

Not hiding. Not seeking attention. Positioning.

Lakan’s pride flickered briefly across his features before he smoothed it away.

“She will thrive in the rear palace,” he said.

Fengxian’s gaze darkened slightly. “That is what worries me.”

He glanced at her. “You fear she will enjoy being untethered.”

“I fear she will realise she never needed tethering.”

Silence settled between them.

Across the hall, a minister approached Lady Kan. Lakan noticed the slight shift in his daughter’s posture, a barely perceptible tightening of her shoulders.

Ah.

This would be interesting. He did not intervene. If she was to play in deeper waters tomorrow, she would need to demonstrate she could swim tonight.

Fengxian’s fingers tightened briefly within her sleeves.

“Watch carefully,” Lakan murmured.

“I always do,” she replied.

Across the hall, green silk met extended wine.

And the game began.

~ * ~

Across the hall, another figure observed.

He stood slightly apart from the crowd, clothed in deep blues and muted purples embroidered subtly with silver thread. A delicate mask obscured the upper half of his face, leaving only sharp, observant eyes visible. The Moon Prince.

He had already greeted the required dignitaries and intended the remainder of the evening to be uneventful.

Then he noticed her.

“Gaoshun,” he said quietly, eyes never leaving the green-clad figure. “Who is that?”

“That is Lady Kan, Your Highness,” Gaoshun replied. “Only daughter of Sir Lakan.”

“So, the rumours are true,” he murmured. “She never appears without a veil.”

“She is… similar to you in that regard, sir.”

His gaze sharpened. There was something deliberate about her movements. Nothing wasted. Nothing careless. He watched as a minister approached her. Watched the exchange of wine. Watched her movements, precise, unhurried.

He knew that grace. He had worn it himself.

He saw her place it under her veil taking a sip with practiced gracefulness. The movement was seamless. He had seen concubines rehearse similar motions. But hers felt… natural.

She returned the cup. The minister drank.

Improper. Dangerous. Interesting.

Minutes later

A scream split the air.

The same minister collapsed, clutching his chest, wine staining his sleeve as he convulsed. Gasps rippled through the hall. The Moon Prince’s eyes flicked immediately to Lady Kan.

No panic. No shock. Only quiet observation. The same man she had been speaking to mere moments ago. The same man she shared a drink with. There was no hint of emotion on her face.

She turned and slipped through a side door before the chaos fully bloomed.

“Your Highness,” Gaoshun cautioned as he moved to follow. “We do not yet know if it was poison.”

“The investigation will fall to me,” he replied calmly. “And if she is involved, I would rather speak to her before she prepares a story.”

He stepped into the corridor beyond.

Moonlight pooled across stone tiles. Cool night air replaced incense.

She stood near the open veranda, back to him, gazing at the sky as if nothing had occurred.

He drew a breath and began to talk. “You should be examined by a physician,” he said evenly. “You shared his drink.”

She did not startle.

She turned slowly and bowed.

“Moon Prince,” she greeted. “It is an honour.”

Her voice was composed, warm, even.

“If you witnessed the exchange,” she continued, “then you know I cannot be responsible. I too consumed it.”

“You do not seem concerned.”

“My father is the Grand Commandant,” she replied simply. “Threats are… commonplace.”

He studied her.

Her eyes held no tremor.

Only calculation.

Before he could press further

“Sister!”

Lahan appeared, bowing deeply to the prince.

“Forgive her, Your Highness. She merely required fresh air.”

Lady Kan’s gaze sharpened slightly at her brother’s interruption.

“No trouble,” the Moon Prince said, stepping back.

The siblings bowed and departed together, green silk disappearing into lantern light. He remained beneath the moon a moment longer. So much for a peaceful evening.

Lady Kan.

A girl who drank poison without fear.

And walked away untouched.

How very interesting.

Chapter Text

Lady Kan sat before the small bronze mirror once again. The metal surface was slightly warped, reflecting her face in softened shapes beneath the dim morning light. Outside the narrow window the sky was still dark, the faintest grey only just beginning to creep along the horizon.

She was already dressed.

Gone were the elegant silks and carefully layered robes of the La Clan. Instead, she wore a simple burgundy outfit made from coarse fabric, the type a peasant girl might wear while working long hours. The sleeves were plain, the stitching practical rather than decorative.

Her green hair fell loosely past her shoulders.

Picking up a pale blue ribbon, she gathered the upper half of her hair and tied it into a high bun. The remaining strands fell down either side of her neck, threaded with small beads that added just enough weight to keep them from tangling. The style was simple, but not unfamiliar. After years of wearing heavy hair ornaments, the light tug of the beads felt almost comforting.

It was the same look she had worn whenever she was suddenly sent away to the pleasure district.

Lastly, she dipped a brush into a small dish of clay and began dabbing faint marks across her nose and cheeks.

Freckles. They scattered unevenly across her skin. They made her look ordinary. That was the goal. Pretty young girls rarely lasted long in the pleasure district. Beauty attracted attention, and attention attracted danger. Looking ordinary, however, made one easy to overlook.

Maomao leaned closer to the mirror, examining her work. Unremarkable enough.

A knock sounded at the door.

“Maomao, are you almost ready?” Xiaolan stood in the doorway, dressed in similar servant robes. Her hair had been styled into two looped braids that framed her face, though a few loose strands had already escaped.

Lady Kan, no, Maomao now, allowed herself a small smile.

It seemed she had finally gotten through to her. Xiaolan had stopped calling her my lady.

“Yes, thank you.” She stood, brushing invisible dust from her sleeves. “Is the carriage ready?”

Xiaolan nodded. “Master Lahan is just about finished. He asked me to accompany you there.”

“Of course.”

Maomao walked toward the doorway but paused for a moment, glancing back into the room.

The shelves where she usually kept her small jars of herbs were empty. Her plants. Her experiments. All left behind.

Her mother had seemed almost relieved that she wasn’t able to take them with her, no doubt if she was found with them, she would be accused of some absurd crime.

Still… Two years was a long time. The longest she had ever been away from home. Of course she would survive. She always did. But she couldn’t help wondering how much would change in her absence. With a quiet sigh, she turned away from the room.

After all, it was only a room.

~ * ~

The carriage rattled steadily along the stone road. The sun had yet to rise, leaving the streets washed in deep blue shadows.

Maomao sat quietly across from Xiaolan, the gentle rocking of the carriage reminding her of many other journeys she had taken in the past, usually when she was hurried away to the Verdigris House during yet another assassination attempt.

~ * ~

Years ago.

The first time she had stayed at the Verdigris House long enough to understand where she was.

She remembered sitting near the wooden balcony while the older courtesans prepared for the evening. Lantern light flickered against the painted walls, and the scent of incense mixed with sweet perfumes until the air itself felt heavy.

“Don’t sit so stiffly,” Meimei said, laughing softly as she adjusted Maomao’s posture.

Maomao had frowned at the time. “I’m not stiff.”

“You absolutely are.”

Joka had leaned over, gently pressing two fingers between Maomao’s shoulders. “There. Relax.”

Maomao had attempted to copy their posture. The result had been disastrous. Her shoulders drooped too much, her back bent slightly, and the courtesans erupted into quiet laughter.

“You look like a wilted flower.”

“Well then how do you sit?” Maomao had asked irritably.

“Like this.”

Pairin crossed her legs gracefully and leaned back with casual elegance, as if the world held nothing capable of troubling her.

Maomao had tried again.

Better. Not perfect. But closer.

~ * ~

Now, sitting in the carriage beside Xiaolan, Maomao subtly adjusted her posture again.

Not quite noble. Not quite servant. Somewhere in between. A skill she would likely need soon.

She glanced toward the girl, who seemed more curious than nervous, peering occasionally through the curtain at the passing buildings.

Maomao folded her hands neatly in her lap.

The rear palace would be different from the outer court. Which meant she would have to change how she behaved. She had been raised as the La Clan Princess. Even when she tried not to think about it, the habits remained, perfect posture, careful speech, the subtle calculation behind every smile.

The pleasure district had helped somewhat. Living among courtesans meant she had learned how to relax certain formalities. But the rear palace had its own hierarchy. Serving girls spoke differently. Moved differently. Complained more. She would have to appear casual without forgetting respect toward those above her.

Maomao frowned slightly.

Perhaps this would be more difficult than she expected.

The carriage slowed before finally coming to a stop.

Both girls stepped down. Before them rose the towering inner wall of the rear palace. On one side stood the world she had always known. On the other waited the life she would live for the next two years.

Several other girls had gathered near a small building beside the gate. They shuffled forward in a slow line, each waiting to register before being assigned their duties. Maomao and Xiaolan joined them.

When Maomao reached the front, an older woman sat behind a low table, flipping through a stack of documents.

“Name?” the woman asked without looking up.

“Maomao.”

The woman barely paused.

Maomao had always been grateful for the strange circumstance surrounding her name. For reasons her father never fully explained, her full name had never been formally registered. She had asked about it before, but Lakan simply claimed it was for her safety. Perhaps that was true. Either way, it meant she didn’t have to invent a false name now.

The woman handed her a set of plain robes and gestured toward a group standing at the back of the room.

“Laundry.”

Maomao followed the direction with quiet acceptance. Laundry duty was far from ideal. Endless scrubbing would likely leave her joints aching.

However…

Laundry was also where servants talked the most. Gossip flowed like water between wash basins. For someone sent here to gather information, it was an excellent position. Xiaolan soon joined the same group, almost certainly thanks to Lahan’s interference.

Once everyone had changed into their assigned robes, a matron stepped forward.

“You have been selected to serve in the rear palace.” Her sharp gaze swept across the room.

“You have been assigned according to the palace’s needs. Remember your place. Speak when spoken to. Work diligently.”

A brief pause.

“If you cause trouble, you will be removed.”

With that, attendants began leading each group deeper into the palace.

~ * ~

Laundry was simple.

Maomao knelt beside a wooden basin, scrubbing at a robe submerged in steaming water. The smell of soap hung thick in the air, mixing with the damp scent of drying cloth. She had done this many times before while staying in the pleasure district.

What was difficult, however, was the gossip.

Lady Kan had been trained in court politics and manipulation. She knew how to converse with ministers twice her age, how to flatter nobles without appearing insincere, how to disguise insults within poetry.

What she had not learned was how to complain about sore hands and stubborn stains in a way that encouraged others to complain even more.

Fortunately, she had Xiaolan. The girl had always been far more talkative.

During their years together, Maomao occasionally sent her on errands through areas where court ladies gathered. Xiaolan always returned late, and always with new information.

Lakan had often said that a good strategist used their allies wisely. Perhaps she had inherited more of her father’s habits than she liked to admit.

“Xiaolan…” Maomao murmured quietly while scrubbing a particularly stubborn stain.

“Yes, Maomao?”

The girl turned immediately, giving her full attention.

Maomao resisted the urge to sigh.

Even without titles, Xiaolan still treated her opinions like royal decrees.

“You should join in.”

“Join in what?”

“The gossip.”

“Ah.”

Understanding dawned instantly.

Xiaolan subtly shifted her wash bucket closer to the group of chatting maids. Within moments she was nodding enthusiastically as they discussed two concubines who had apparently argued over something trivial.

Maomao continued working, listening carefully. Information always revealed itself through careless conversation. She simply needed patience.

One of the other maids approached the washing area carrying a basket of newly dirtied robes.

She glanced at Maomao. “Long day, huh?”

Maomao froze for a fraction of a second. Was that… casual conversation?

“Yes,” she replied after a brief pause.

The girl waited. Maomao waited. Silence stretched awkwardly between them. Finally the maid shrugged and walked away.

Maomao stared down at the cloth in her hands.

Right.

She would have to work on that. Manipulating ministers was one thing. Talking like an ordinary person was apparently another skill entirely.

~ * ~

By the time the sun began sinking toward the horizon, the sky had turned soft shades of pink and purple. Maomao was hanging the final sheet when a shadow fell across the ground beside her.

“You there. Come with me.”

A man stood behind her. A eunuch, of course. The command came with little room to protest. Maomao finished securing the sheet before following him.

He led her behind one of the laundry buildings, where the noise of the courtyard faded into distant murmurs. She noted the area carefully. Isolated. Few witnesses.

The eunuch spoke quietly.

“You are the daughter of Master Lakan, yes?”

So this was the messenger.

“That is correct,” she replied, inclining her head.

“You will direct any communication with your family through me. Do you understand?”

She nodded.

“Any letters you write will be placed here.” He pointed to a large stone near the wall. “Under this rock. I will collect them once a week.”

Another nod.

“Any questions?”

“No, sir.”

“Good.”

Without another word he turned and walked away. Maomao watched him disappear around the corner. She frowned slightly. The man could have shown at least a hint of courtesy. She may be posing as a servant, but she was still a noblewoman.

Then again…

Perhaps it was better to grow accustomed to such treatment quickly.

The path back to the dormitories wound through several palace gardens. Maomao slowed slightly as she passed a cluster of flowers. Beautiful arrangements designed purely for decoration. Yet beneath the beauty she recognized several useful plants. Medicinal herbs. Mild toxins. If she ever managed to slip away from her duties, there might be opportunities for experimentation.

When Maomao finally pushed open the dormitory door, she found Xiaolan sitting on the floor with several other maids. They were gathered around a small lantern, their conversation animated.

“Maomao! There you are!” Xiaolan called excitedly. “Come sit with us!”

Maomao quietly joined them.

Two of the girls looked slightly older than Xiaolan. One wore her hair in a neat low bun while the other had long brown hair falling loosely around her shoulders. Introductions were exchanged quickly. Then the girl with the bun leaned forward.

“I love your freckles.”

Maomao paused.

Her freckles had always been for protection. Never beauty. They were meant to make her disappear into the background. Still, normal girls accepted compliments.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome!” the girl beamed before suddenly brightening. “Oh! Did you hear about the beautiful new eunuch?”

“Beautiful?” Maomao repeated, narrowing her eyes slightly.

Xiaolan nodded eagerly.

“Oh yes! Apparently, the maids, the ladies-in-waiting, even some concubines are completely fascinated by him.”

“Interesting…” Maomao murmured, resting her fingers thoughtfully against her chin.

The girl with the long hair sighed.

“I’ve been trying to see him all day, but I haven’t spotted anyone who matches the description.”

A beautiful eunuch. Maomao filed the information away. If nothing else, it might be something worth mentioning in her first letter home.

And besides…

Information was information.

Chapter Text

The rear palace slept quietly, as always. Guards stood at their posts, barely moving. The lanterns flickered every so often.

Maomao had finished her duties and gone to bed with the others, all so they thought. She now stood in the shadows of the dormitory corridor, listening, counting, and timing.

She listened for the footsteps, as soon as the guards were out of sight, she exhaled and then moved.

Her steps were soundless against the floor, as she moved her posture shifted almost unconsciously. Straighter, sharper, Lady Kan.

The familiar weight settled over her like a second skin, only this time, she lacked the accessories to prove it. Gone was the slight slouch of a servant, gone was the softness. Her gaze sharpened on instinct. No longer lowered, but aware.

She slipped through a side passage she had discovered earlier that day, avoiding the main corridors.

She quickly reached her destination, a storage shed, hidden further north. Earlier that day she had noticed a eunuch delivering something, unmarked. His movements had been suspicious, too quick, his head turning to fast, as if he was scared of being watched.

Maomao had followed him here, but it had been too early to investigate.

Maomao reached the door and paused. Placing her ear against the door she listened, nothing. She silently slid the door open and slipped inside. The room was filled with darkness, but she was more concerned with the scent that hit her immediately. Herbs, strong ones too. They weren’t common. Not poisonous on their own but could be toxic when mixed with other ingredients.

Her fingers moved over the containers, opening one slightly. It smelt bitter. Her eyes narrowed.

Suddenly, footsteps echoed outside, closer than before. Lady Kan froze; she needed more time. She moved quickly, silently closing the container and slipping further into the shadows, just as the door slid open.

Moonlight spilled into the room.

“… I’m sure I heard something.”

It was a man’s voice, young, a eunuch obviously.

Another set of footsteps followed, and a voice sounded, this one older. “Probably a rat”

Maomao slowed her breathing, forcing herself to remain calm. From where she stood she could only see their figures, the darkness hid their features, unfortunately.

The younger man stepped further into the room, his gaze sweeping across the shelves. Then for a moment his gaze turned dangerously close to where she stood.

Maomao’s pulse remained steady, if he noticed her, she doubted she would be able to lie her way out.

The eunuch tilted his head slightly “It seems I was mistaken.”

Though Maomao didn’t relax, not yet.

The other man sighed “Told you”

They turned to leave, before the younger one suddenly stopped. Turning to glance back once more. Maomao held her breath, then thankfully the door closed.

Maomao waited, one second, then two, then five. Only then did she move towards a back exit she had found earlier.

By the time she returned to her dormitory her posture had softened once more, her steps smaller. She lay on her bed staring upwards.

Unmarked containers

Restricted herbs

And a mysterious eunuch

Her lips curved faintly, this place was starting to become interesting.

~ * ~

Jinshi did not immediately return to his residence. The corridor outside the storage shed was quiet now, Gaoshun stood a step behind him, as always.

At last Jinshi spoke, his voice low. “You heard it too.”

Gaoshun didn’t hesitate “Yes.”

Jinshi continued, almost as if speaking to himself. “Not a rat”

“No”

Jinshi’s gaze drifted back to the closed door. He hadn’t seen anything, no movement, no sound. Yet something had been there.

He smiled faintly “Open it again”

Gaoshun did as he was told. The same scene greeted them again; the strong smell of herbs filled his senses. Jinshi stepped inside, his fingers brushed over the containers, his movements careful. Nothing appeared disturbed.

But Jinshi had not been trained to rely on glances. He lifted a lid. “Still warm.” He murmured.

Gaoshun’s eyes sharpened at the confirmation.

Jinshi looked over the room again. Whoever entered had done so quietly, left no visible trace, and had not panicked. That alone narrowed the possibilities.

Most likely not a common servant then.

“Tell me Gaoshun,” he said lightly, “How many people in the rear palace would recognise these herbs on sight?”

Gaoshun folded his arms together. “Very few, fewer still would have reason to be here.”

“Hm”

Jinshi turned away from the shelves. The storage shed was not for general use, never mind how hidden it was, having been constructed towards the north. The herbs stored here were not quite poisonous, though dangerous in the wrong hands.

Which was precisely why he had arranged to have them moved here for the time being.

Jinshi stepped back outside, speaking again. “These herbs were intercepted three days ago, originally intended for the kitchens.”

Gaoshun nodded “smuggled.”

Jinshi’s gaze flickered slightly. Someone had gone to great lengths to acquire them. That alone suggested intent.

“Do we know who ordered them?” Gaoshun asked.

Jinshi shook his head “There was no name and no seal.” Jinshi continued “But now, it seems we’re not the only ones interested.”

He began walking again, Gaoshun followed him.

“You suspect the same person behind the recent disturbances?” Gaoshun asked.

Jinshi let out a quiet breath. Disturbances was a polite word, but the patterns were there. Minor inconsistences in the kitchens, delayed deliveries, servants asking the wrong questions. Nothing overt, nothing punishable, but it all seemed intentional.

Jinshi frowned “Someone is observing, testing”

Gaoshun frowned as well. “You believe there is a spy.”

“Perhaps”

Jinshi continued walking towards his residence. There was no doubt that someone else was involved in this little game of theirs, and he was intrigued to discover just how long they could remain unseen.

~ * ~

Three months, three months of working in the rear palace as a laundry maid. It wasn’t an unpleasant change, just different, strange. It was like a mystery that needed to be solved. And mysteries were simply problems with hidden pieces. All one had to do was observe closely enough to find the clues others overlooked. Maomao had always been good at that, perhaps too good, if her father’s constant “requests” for information were anything to go by.

She was already beginning to see the resemblances between the rear palace and the pleasure district. Both were cages for the women who were stuck there. However Maomao wasn’t like the courtesans, no matter how much the old granny wanted to turn Maomao into one to pay off her debts. It wasn’t her fault that her experiments tended to be on the more explosive side. And she wasn’t like the concubines either. No. Maomao was inherently freer then that. As long as she kept her head mostly down, apart from her intelligence gathering, she should be safe.

The routine of the rear palace was a welcome change. Maomao finished styling her hair, the same high bun she wore every day, with the bottom half falling in two weighted strands. The freckles she painted across her nose remained.

As she stepped out of the dormitory, she breathed in the familiar scent of soap and damp linen that clung to the servants’ quarters. In the distance, the courtyards of the rear palace glowed with morning light, crimson pillars and gold-trimmed rooftops catching the first rays of sun.

She made her way over to the mess hall to meet Xiaolan. The girl had been a great asset to Maomao’s mission, but Maomao was beginning to enjoy her presence more and more. Xiaolan was the only part of her old life still here and she decided she was going to keep it that way, for as long as possible.

Rows of low tables filled the room, and the air buzzed with overlapping conversations. Wooden trays clattered, rice bowls scraped against the tables, and the faint smell of broth drifted through the hall.

Maomao grabbed a tray and scanned the room.

She quickly spotted Xiaolan in the far corner.

The younger girl waved enthusiastically the moment their eyes met.

Maomao walked over, setting her tray down across from her.

“What’s this I hear about curses, Xiaolan?” she asked as she sat down

“Oh Maomao, it’s so terrible” She leaned forward across the table as if afraid someone might overhear, despite the entire hall already discussing the same topic.

“Do you remember the emperors last three children growing ill and passing away”

“Yes” Maomao drawled. picking up her chopsticks.

Of course she remembered, the entire outer court had been obsessed with the topic when it happened. Even merchants in the capital had whispered about it.

Though the emperor’s first son had been born before Maomao herself, so she had only heard the stories afterward.

“Well,” Xiaolan continued dramatically, “it seems the same thing is happening now!” She pushed herself up slightly from her seat, both hands braced against the table.

“Both the Prince and Princess are ill?”

The emperor currently had two children in the rear palace.

A daughter, six months old, born to Lady Gyokuyou.

And a son, only three months old, born to Lady Lihua.

In fact, that banquet she attended before leaving home had likely been part of the celebration, or it would have been if that selfish minister hadn’t succumbed to a heart attack, at least that’s what the official report said.

“Yeah, the palace physician was seen visiting both consorts yesterday.”

“Hmm…” Maomao tapped her chopsticks lightly against the rim of her bowl. Interesting. A palace physician visiting two pavilions in one day would certainly start rumours.

Her uncle Luoman would have warned against drawing conclusions from incomplete information.

Her father, on the other hand, would absolutely want to hear about it.

“Since Lady Lihua gave birth to a prince,” Xiaolan continued eagerly, “that would make her the empress consort, right Maomao?”

“Most likely,” Maomao replied calmly. “Although I wouldn’t go around saying that. Not until a royal decree.”

“Right…”

Xiaolan returned to her food for a moment before suddenly remembering something.

“Rumour says Lady Gyokuyou is the emperor’s favourite.”

“So possibly a power struggle”

Xiaolan lowered her voice.

“Though Lady Lihua seems to be the worst off. The physician is attending to her the most.”

Maomao paused. “Huh… Lady Lihua is sick also? What are the patients’ symptoms?”

Xiaolan tilted her head, thinking. “Umm… from what I’ve heard… head and stomach aches. Oh! And nausea, I think.”

She suddenly looked alarmed again.

“Isn’t it horrible, Maomao?! This curse is going to doom us all!”

Maomao rolled her eyes, this is why she didn’t participate in courtly gossip. “The only thing that will doom us, is gullibility” and with that she stood and took her tray to deposit it, her work couldn’t wait much longer.

~ * ~

Later that morning Maomao crossed the courtyard carrying a basket of freshly washed robes. Her mind was already turning over Xiaolan’s information.

Headaches. Stomach pain. Nausea.

Those symptoms alone suggested poisoning. But if someone intended to assassinate the prince… why poison the princess as well? Perhaps something hereditary? That would explain the emperor’s previous children. Still…

Maomao knew better than to accuse the imperial bloodline of weakness without proof. She placed the laundry basket in its assigned storage room and quietly slipped away. Just a small detour.

The palace courtyards glittered beneath the morning sun. Gold roof tiles reflected the light so brightly that Maomao had to squint as she crossed the stone path. Ahead, a crowd had formed. Court ladies, eunuchs, and servants stood watching the scene unfold

Maomao pushed through carefully.

Then she saw them. The Two consorts. Lady Gyokuyou sat on the ground; one hand pressed against her cheek. Her robes were layered in warm colours - reds, pinks, and oranges like a sunset.

Standing over her was Lady Lihua, dressed in deep blues. Her raised hand told Maomao everything she needed to know.

“You’re trying to curse my son, because your child is a daughter!” Lady Lihua exclaimed. Her extremely pale skin was sweating, she did in fact, look quite ill, Maomao observed.

“That is absurd! My Xiaoling is suffering from this as well!” Lady Gyokuyou cried, as she was still on the ground, she made no move to stand back up, perhaps she was trying to play the victim for as long as possible.

“If you still don’t believe me, you are welcome to examine my daughter for yourself.” Maomao looked around. The scene had attracted a lot of attention. Still no one made any move to stop it. Useless.

Even worse was the nervous eunuch standing between them. The palace physician, no doubt. Maomao sighed internally. She had observed the consorts for less than a minute and already suspected the cause, and it sure as hell isn’t a curse.

Lady Kan really didn’t need to help; in fact she had all the information she needed. She could walk away right now, write to her father, and forget any of this ever happened. But Maomao, who was partly raised by her uncle would help, unfortunately.

Oh well, she would do it discreetly, if it was discovered she was Lakan’s daughter, perhaps the knowledge that she saved the emperor’s children could lessen her punishment.

Maomao walked away from the scene, if she were to do this then she would leave a note, yes, that would work best. But she was no longer a noble lady she didn’t just have access to paper.

“If only... I could find something to write with” Maomao murmured to herself. She was so engrossed in her own thoughts she failed to notice the tall eunuch she had just passed, something Lady Kan would have absolutely noticed. Perhaps the rear palace really was making her careless.

~ * ~

Quickly, Maomao slipped into the dormitory, Xiaolan was working nearby. The girl waved excitedly. “Maomao! Your back! Where’d you go?”

“Oh, just a small excursion.” Maomao lowered her voice. “Listen there’s something I need to do, alone, I just need you to keep watch for me, can you do that?”

“Yes Ma’am” Xiaolan exclaimed saluting her all the while as if Maomao was some sort of commanding officer.

Maomao entered her dorm, taking out one of her spare uniforms. Maids were only issued three, damaging one meant losing part of their salary. Oh well… Maomao thought to herself, as she tore two small strips, she would make do.

Taking charcoal out from a small draw, she began writing a short message. Then she stepped outside and approached a flower bed.

Rhododendrons.

Perfect.

Tying the cloth to the stems, she quietly delivered the warnings to both pavilions. Before making herself scarce. She had been discreet, no one had seen her, she was sure of that.

~ * ~

A month later, it was announced, the young prince had succumbed to illness.

The rear palace mourned, the maids were given black sashes, and the other concubines paid their respects. Maomao had done all she could. In fact her father had seem quite pleased with the information she had provided. Though it wasn’t an assassination attempt on the young prince, it was still quite useful.

Across the rear palace, a beautiful eunuch and his aid met with the emperor’s favourite consort.

“It seems that you have a question for me.” The consort said the fabric sat in front of the two of them and off to the side was a vase with a beautiful flower in it.

“Just one…”

“The day I went to the Crystal Pavilion to ask to have my daughter examined, I returned to find the note tied to this flower on a windowsill.”

“A Rhododendron” the flower represented danger and was very much a symbol used for warnings.

“The white face powder is poison, do not let the baby touch it.” Gyokuyou read the note aloud.

“The palace physician would not apply such an in direct approach” Jinshi replied.

“Then we agree”

“But then who…?” this mystery was strangely perplexing.

“I would like for you to uncover that very thing”

Jinshi thought back to that day, it had been almost a month ago but there was something he remembered rather distinctly

If only… I could find something to write with

“I believe I may have a lead, though could I hang onto this, for the time being” Jinshi placed the fabric into his sleeve, his eyes narrowed as a smile overtook his features.

~ * ~

It was Maomao’s break when a eunuch alerted her to a summons, she was requested to meet at the matron of the serving women’s office immediately. The office was quite large but empty, with only a desk and chair and a few plants scattered around. Getting summoned by high officials was never a good sign, the only thing that calmed her nerves was the notion that others had also been requested.

She was brought out of her musing as the chatter in the room suddenly ceased. Footsteps could be heard and then…

“I would like to thank you all for coming” came the rather honeyed voice. Huh… who’s the arrogant looking woman supposed to be?

“I am Jinshi, the manager of the rear palace.”

Wait that’s a man

That must be the beautiful looking eunuch Xiaolan and the others mentioned. Maomao took a good look at him, they were right. Objectively speaking of course, he was rather attractive. What a shame, A-grade genes and no way to prolificate them.

The man, Master Jinshi, held up a piece of paper. Maomao squinted trying to read the words.

‘You with the freckles stay here.’

“Huh”

The chatter stopped as the other maids turned to look at her. Crap. And worst of all the eunuch was looking directly at her. His eyes narrowed and he seemed almost too pleased with himself. “Thank you” he began “the rest of you may disperse”

She looked back as the rest of the maids walked away groaning, some complaining about being called away for no good reason, others trying desperately to get one more glimpse of the handsome eunuch.

Great, of course the others would leave, the literacy rate was low among serving girls and Maomao herself had explicitly stated on her service contract that she was illiterate. She needed to get out of here, now.

The way she almost ran out of that room would have surely given her mother a migraine, but she didn’t much care. Unfortunately she was quickly stopped with a hand on her shoulder. She turned her head slowly in time to see the eunuch bending over to eye level.

“Didn’t you read miss, I told you to wait.” He spoke softly, almost nauseatingly so “Now keep quiet and follow me ok.” All Maomao could do was glare and flick the hand off with disgust, wiping her shoulder twice before she bowed shallowly and made to follow. Like she had once said to Lahan; Lady Kan has manners, Maomao did not. And right now Lady Kan was nowhere in sight.

~ * ~

“I must admit, I was quite confused when I read your file. It mentioned that you were illiterate” Jinshi walked ahead chin in hand, it almost felt like he was talking to himself.

She forced her voice to remain even. She would not be caught lying again “Yes, well there must be some kind of mistake for I am of lowly birth”

As they walked Maomao knew this was about her messages, but how he had figured it out she was unsure of. So much for keeping her head down.

They came to a large building, one Maomao knew well after she had made that delivery there around a month ago. Jinshi was greeted by a lady in waiting, her brown hair was looped on top of her head, she seemed older than most ladies in waiting, perhaps the head lady then.

They moved up the stairs silently until Jinshi knocked on a door. “I’ve brought her, as requested”

A kind voice could be heard on the other side of the door “Enter”

Maomao walked through the doorway, bowing almost instantly. As she lifted her head she saw Lady Gyokuyou, in her arms was a child, young, less than a year old. The Princess.

She couldn’t help what came out of her mouth next.

“That’s good”

“So it was you, for saving the life of my precious Lingli, you have my gratitude” The consort stated, she seemed happy, not that Maomao could blame her. Children under seven could die for any number of reasons, for her child to survive was nothing short of a miracle.

“Please my Lady, there must be some kind of mistake” Maomao voice sounded different, like she was almost begging. Lady Kan didn’t beg.

“No I don’t believe there is” Came the reply

Another approach “Please I fear your praise is too generously given”

“Who else deserves my praise more than the one who saved my daughter’s life.”

Maomao only lied when it was necessary, and this seemed like a very necessary situation indeed. Maomao was smart she would not let an error like this ruin her plans. Just as she was about to say something more, Jinshi began to speak, pulling out what seemed to be a scrap of fabric.

Repeating the note “The white face powder is poison, do not let the baby touch it. Did you know that this fabric is from the serving girls’ uniform”

She was forced to respond “I guess it does look familiar”

“Yes, I’m sure any of the serving girls would recognise it. Now tell me true, did you tear up a skirt for want of good paper” he looked entirely to smug with himself. She grimaced. There was something about Master Jinshi, something fake, like he was putting on some sort of act. Maomao didn’t like it one bit, it reminded her entirely too much of herself.

He continued “Now that we’ve established that it was you tell us why you did what you did.”

It was becoming increasingly clear that Maomao’s backstory wouldn’t suffice, no doubt she would have to mention her knowledge of poisons. She couldn’t tell the truth, but she wouldn’t lie either. She took a deep breath.

“I placed the flower there that day because I deduced that the white face powder was poison.” She waited for an interruption, when none came, she continued.

“In the brothels I grew up around there were many courtesans who used the same powder. Most of them died from the poison. They traded their life for a fleeting moment. Before I came here, I was an apothecary, I am familiar with poisons” She finished her story looking at the ground. Would her knowledge of poisons finally be her downfall, she was just a servant after all. She looked up at the sound of ceramic hitting the table.

“Was this the powder” Jinshi asked, she nodded.

“It was used by the baby’s nurse, she claimed it had a better whitening effect then other cosmetics. She fell ill after Lingli, I gave her time off to recover, all fully compensated of course.”

“Kind of you” Jinshi said

“Ignorance is truly a sin, as a mother I should have paid more attention to what my child was eating” Gyokuyou continued.

They both looked sad as if they were reminiscing over a faraway memory, but there were more important things in Maomao’s mind now. She bowed her head.

“What is to happen to me now”

The two snapped out of the memory, Gyokuyou smiled. “From this day onwards, you are to be my new lady in waiting!”

What, no…, no, no, this was not part of the plan.

When she was dismissed Maomao sprinted back to the dormitory. She barely noticed Xiaolan greeting her. This was bad. Very bad. She had come to the rear palace to stay unnoticed. Now she was the lady in waiting of the emperor’s favourite consort. Lady Kan prided herself on always staying five steps ahead.

But this…

This had never even crossed her mind.

And now she had no choice but to live with it.

Chapter Text

Jinshi sat in his office in the outer court. It was already evening and yet the pile of paperwork had only seemed to grow as the day went on. He should have been focused on that, yet his thoughts were captured by a certain someone, a serving girl.

She should have been like the others, she should have fawned over him, yet she didn’t. He had told Gaoshun of her knowledge and when asked how he would be sure she wouldn’t use that knowledge against them, he had replied simply.

He knew how to manipulate women; he had been doing it for years. He had been gifted with an appearance more beautiful than most and he had learnt how to use it.

Yet when he had tried to use it on her she had glared at him like he was some sort of disgusting insect, it had both terrified and intrigued him. But there was another feeling as well, one he couldn’t quite place.

Well, if he couldn’t seduce her to his side then he would just have to get to know her subtly, learn her strengths, her weakness, what made her tick, and he would use them all to his advantage. Afterall, he knew better than anyone how to manipulate those around him, he had been learning since birth. It was only a matter of time before she succumbed.

~ * ~

It was strange, Maomao thought, this new position. Learning to be a laundry maid had been strange too but nothing like this. As a laundry maid, Maomao could keep to herself, let Xiaolan lead the conversation and listen for clues. She couldn’t do that here, no, she had to directly speak to the other ladies in waiting, both for work and pleasure.

On her first day, she had been introduced to the other ladies in waiting. They had all been so nice, but Maomao could only see naivety. Their mistress was the emperor’s favourite they shouldn’t have been so welcoming. Though they were talkative at least, something she used to her full potential, and with her new role she had more freedom then most.

She had been given the task of poison taster, something she had avoided writing about in her letters home, if her parents knew they would have pulled her away from her new job instantly. She however, had been ecstatic, though she couldn’t show her hand just yet. But getting to try food, that had the potential to be poisoned only excited her days. The thrill of not knowing what she would ingest made her mouth salivate. Lady Kan would have been reprimanded for showing such expressions, but Maomao allowed herself less restraint, it would make her look more normal if she looked happy at least a bit. Even if the others looked at her as if she had grown two heads.

Though she had felt for Xiaolan, she knew the girl would continue her work as a maid, and Maomao, well there was even more information to be gathered by the concubines.

The other ladies in waiting had attempted to get her to change into garments that reflected her new status better, but she had refused. The more she dressed up the more she would look like a certain named clan princess, and although she didn’t think that alone would reveal her identity, she had learnt to always be careful, there were, after all, spies everywhere.

A knock sounded at her door.

“Maomao, you’re being summoned.” The voice of Yinghua, the youngest of the three ladies in waiting, sounded through the door.

Interesting, Lady Gyokuyou wasn’t scheduled for her meal for another few hours, so why was she needed.

Walking into the Parlor she bowed behind her green sleeves, her gaze lowered toward the ground.

“You requested me, my Lady”

“No, but he did” a slight smile tugged on the consort’s face, following her gaze Maomao came face to face with a certain eunuch, looking even more sparkly than usual.

She grimaced, how did so many court ladies fall for his charms, he was so obviously fake, it made her want to vomit, something she didn’t do unless she ingested a particularly unpleasant poison.

“Why are you immune” he mumbled, his act seemed to drop for a moment before being replaced by another equally honeyed smile.

Let’s get this over with

“What did you need, Master Jinshi?” bowing to try to avoid his expression. Usually, she would take every opportunity to study her opponent, but it was difficult, it seemed whatever the reason for this act he had cultivated so well, it had become second nature.

“Will you taste these for me?” Jinshi asked, as he placed a box on the table in front of her.

She opened it up, and took out the food, breaking the bun in half, she sniffed it. A familiar scent filled her senses, something that shouldn’t have been there.

“There’s an aphrodisiac baked in.” She said calmly, returning the bun to the box and pushing it slightly away from her.

Jinshi looked puzzled for a moment, then intrigued. “You can tell without eating it”

Maomao shrugged “it’s not like their harmful, you can try one if you like.”

Jinshi looked slightly more pale at that, a touchy subject perhaps. “Considering the individual I received these from; that’s simply out of the question.”

Though perhaps a little teasing wouldn’t hurt, with how her days played out, Maomao was starved for entertainment. “Perhaps that person will visit you tonight.”

Lady Gyokuyou seemed to be enjoying the exchange looking between the servant and master quietly smiling to herself.

But Jinshi seemed to be almost lost in his own thoughts mumbling “You knew, and by smell alone.”

Did he know, Maomao wondered, was he trying to feed her an aphrodisiac knowingly. Maomao had figured out rather quickly what the eunuch’s intentions were upon meeting him. Not that she could blame him, seducing someone to ensure their loyalty was a tactic she knew well, too bad it wouldn’t work on her, especially with her tolerance.

Jinshi packed the box away, before turning back to face her. “I did have one more question for you”

“Of course”

“A squad of soldiers were on a mission to attack some barbarians the other day, when they were poisoned.” He said calmly, tilting his head slightly to look at Maomao through his long eyelashes.

If Maomao had been a cat her ears would have perked up at that “Poison?”

He smiled before continuing, seemingly happy he had gotten her attention. “Yes, several fell ill after their evening meal. The soldiers reported Nausea and difficulty breathing.”

Those symptoms did sound like a poisoning though Maomao knew better than to voice conjecture without further proof.

Jinshi continued “The meal was prepared by the local village. The village leader was arrested for aiding the barbarians; however, a soldier diffused the situation and has put the decision on hold.”

The situation itself wasn’t that unusual she had heard countless stories of a similar issue happening from her father, in fact she was almost certain she knew the culprit, having been enlisted by her father to help in the past, using her knowledge of poisons for good. What was strange however, was why Master Jinshi was so involved in the decision. He was a eunuch, obviously high ranking, but still a eunuch. He had no place in battle strategy. She would have to keep a closer eye on this development.

She returned to the present, turning her attention back to Jinshi, he was waiting for an answer.

“Master Jinshi, where were they eating”

“At camp, so they were likely outside.” He replied simply

“Did the villagers supply the plates and chopsticks?” she asked another question

“No, the soldiers would have provided their own.” Her lip began to tilt up at that, now she was certain.

“What I am about to say is mere opinion, but I believe it is worth sharing.” He nodded at that, Lady Gyokuyou was still in the room, she had been so quiet Maomao had almost forgotten she was there. The consort was quite good at speaking in the right moments and staying quiet in others.

Maomao walked over to vase filled with flowers, the same flower she had used to warn the consorts about the white face powder. “This is a Rhododendron” she said as she placed a petal in her mouth, chewing it slightly.

“Does it taste good?” Gyokuyou asked. She seemed only slightly concerned.

“No, it causes nausea and difficulty breathing” She replied as she took the chewed-up petal out of her mouth, she knew it was an improper thing to do, but she didn’t much care. She was no stranger to eating plants. After a rather long trip to the Verdigris House when she was younger, she had returned home, only to begin sampling the La Clan estates plants attempting to see if any were poisonous. He mother had been revolted and had ordered the removal of any plants that had been poisonous.

The other occupants seemed to have mixed reactions to her revelation, but she continued, nonetheless. “As you can see, even the rear palace has harmful plants. The poison in this flower is in the petals; however some are in the branches. There have even been some instances where wood has emitted toxic fumes when burned.”

“Like in a fire” Lady Gyokuyou stated, she seemed to have understood Maomao’s thought process. Though she had dumbed down her explanation slightly. She was a servant after all. If she went around speaking eloquently like Lady Kan, she would be discovered in a heartbeat.

“I see” Jinshi said as he looked up rather intently. Good, Maomao thought, she was almost worried she would need to speak even more plainly for the Eunuch to understand.

“It was fortunate that that soldier had intervened or we could have lost a whole village.” Of course Maomao didn’t care about the village, though she had heard about the attack on the barbarians from her brother and that particular village had seemed to owe her family a large debt. Maomao would hate from them to die before they could pay it back.

Maomao made to leave, seemingly done with the conversation.

“Well if there is nothing more, I will take my leave.” Maomao stood up bowing with practised poise only a bit stiffer than she usually would. After all a servant’s bow was different to that of a noble lady.

“No, wait” Jinshi said while a smug grin tugged at his features

Still lowered a bow, Maomao looked at him through her eyelashes. “What is it?”

“How are you at making aphrodisiacs?” Jinshi asked.

Maomao felt a grin begin to show on her features. Making drugs was only one of her favourite passions. It had been months since she had last indulged in such an act. She suddenly realised she had been smiling for quite a little bit; Lady Kan didn’t smile, not like that at least. She quickly straightened.

“With adequate time, ingredients, and the right tools, I’m sure I can make something like that.” She returned to the act of a good servant; she would need to improve her discipline in the future.

Maomao wondered if this would ever come back to bite her, after all women couldn’t be doctors, was this one of Jinshi’s games, perhaps a test. Whatever it was, she would not fall for it.

~ * ~

Maomao stood in the kitchen, looking over the ingredients laid out. She had been given full access to the medical supplies, something the quack doctor had been quite displeased about.

She began mixing the aphrodisiac while slightly remembering. She had tasted aphrodisiacs multiple times before. The first time was during a trip to the Verdigris House. But the second time, when she was fourteen, had been the most notable.

~ * ~

The foreign minister’s estate was larger than Lady Kan expected. The house was in an unfamiliar style. Large banners hung around the front of the house, depicting strange animals and plants Lady Kan had never seen before.

Lady Kan followed a step behind her father as they walked over to the minister and his family. She was dressed in heavy garments, representing the La Clan. Her face adorned with a delicate veil.

Lakan had given his daughter a simple instruction for this meeting. Observe. “Politics,” he had told her “Is simply another form of warfare”

The minister greeted them with enthusiasm “Master Lakan! It is an honour to welcome you to my home.” The smile seemed to not reach his eyes. Behind him stood his wife and son.

Lady Kan noticed his son immediately. He looked around seventeen. He was tall, broad shouldered. He gave a polite bow. One she returned.

The two families soon found themselves seated around a dining table, servants moved around them soundlessly, one placed a cup of tea in front of her, and the others.

Lady Kan lifted the cup to her face, underneath her veil, giving a curious sniff. In the background she could hear her father beginning his negotiations with the minister.

She took a small sip, if only to be polite. The tea tasted of fruit and honey, but there seemed to be a faint bitter aftertaste. Strange, perhaps a foreign herb she had yet to learn about.

She took another small sip, the minister’s son seemed to be watching her, though she pretended not to notice.

At first the room seemed to grow warmer, her cheeks felt hot, and her collar was suddenly too tight. She shifted consciously in her seat. Maybe the weather in this region was just warmer.

Though soon, her heart began to beat faster, strange, she hadn’t done anything strenuous. She took another sip of tea hoping to quell the feeling, but it only seemed to worsen, spreading through her chest to her arms and legs.

Across the table the minister’s son leaned slightly over. “Are you feeling alright? Lady Kan.”

Behind her veil, she frowned “Yes… I think so” her voiced sounded slightly breathless. She couldn’t seem to think straight. Her father glanced at her from where he sat beside her. His gaze flickered to her teacup then back to the minister.

Another wave of warmth rolled through her, something wasn’t right. She stood up abruptly, while trying to keep some semblance of propriety. She forced her voice to remain even.

“Please, excuse me.”

The minister turned to her, seeming concerned “of course, Lady Kan.” She barely heard him already halfway out of the room.

Lady Kan walked through the corridors looking for something that resembled an exit, but everything looked the same. She loosened her collar as she walked, wanting nothing more than to remove her veil, but something stopped her.

She tried her best to think clearly, but she felt too dizzy, placing a hand on the wall to steady herself, she tried to think back. Her eyes widened slightly. The tea. The sweetness, then the bitter taste. Aphrodisiac herbs. She needed to get out of here. Now.

Suddenly she heard footsteps behind her. Turning slightly to see the minister’s son leaning against the wall. His expression was calm, almost concerned.

“I thought you might be lost.” He said plainly

Lady Kan did her best to straighten “I’m not lost.”

He smiled faintly “You’ve passed the same corridor twice.”

So he had been watching her. Even in her state her irritation flared. She moved to walk past him but was stopped as he grabbed her wrist. The contact made her freeze uncontrollably, a warmth spread up her arm.

“You should walk more slowly.” He said softly, “you seem unsteady.”

She tried to pull her arm out of his grasp, but his grip only tightened “I’m fine”

The boy studied her face for a second “You’re flushed”

She ignored him, continuing to try to get away. She finally freed herself, moving past him again when he stopped her with a hand on her shoulder. His grip was strong. Too strong to just be polite. “Wait”

She brushed his hand off immediately. Her voice was still unsteady. “You shouldn’t touch people without asking.”

“You seemed dizzy”

“I’m not”

He stepped closer again, far too close.

“You drank quite a lot of tea” he replied, his breath tickling her face, as he continued to study her.

Lady Kan’s stomach dropped. He knew.

“You planned this” she said as her anger began to grow.

He didn’t reply only lifting a hand to tilt her chin upwards, as if examining her. The gesture startled her so quickly she stepped away from him. Her voice sharper now.

“Don’t”

He ignored her, taking another step forwards “You really are flushed, perhaps you should sit down.” He gestured toward a small sitting room, placing a hand on her back he began to guide her down the hallway.

She may have been slightly incapacitated, but she understood the situation perfectly. If she was seen behaving strangely in front of the minister’s son, rumours could spread. The minister’s son, helping Master Lakan’s daughter, or perhaps something less innocent. Either way it would ruin her family’s reputation.

Lady Kan breathed slowly, remembering what her uncle had taught her.

Poison may weaken the body, but the mind must stay clear.

“I need air” she said

“There’s a garden nearby” he replied quickly, too quickly.

She turned back around to face him swaying slightly.

“I said I’m fine”

The boy frowned “you’re being stubborn”

Lady Kan, employed her last tactic, looking straight at him she replied “you know my father is the Grand Commandant”  

The boy hesitated for just a moment. “That’s assuming that anyone notices”

“You think my father won’t notice someone trying to trap his daughter.”

The boy’s expression shifted slightly, that was all she needed, as quickly as she could manage, Lady Kan walked past him.

She managed to find an exit, kneeling behind some shrubs she stuck two fingers down her throat, vomiting up the drug. She breathed heavily. The effects were still there, but with time and plenty of water, she would survive.

The next day she sat in a carriage opposite her father, as they made the journey home.

“Father?”

“Yes”

“What will happen to the minister?” she asked, she could still feel the bitterness of the tea in her throat.

“He and his family will return to their province” her father replied.

Lady Kan blinked “That quickly?”

“They made a political mistake.” So he did know. Lady Kan wondered why he hadn’t intervened sooner.

“Your uncle has taught you well” he continued simply.

She frowned slightly “I didn’t notice it immediately”

“You recognised it eventually” next time she would realise far sooner.

Lakan studied his daughter slightly, then smiled “A useful lesson wouldn’t you say?”

“Yes”

~ * ~

Since that day, Maomao had worked tirelessly to build up her tolerance, something that had only aided her in the future, now allowing her to work in the rear palace as a lady in waiting.

She had finished the aphrodisiac’s placing them on a tray to cool. This kind of stimulant didn’t affect her anymore, and although she never tried the tea again, she didn’t mind eating chocolate, when she could get her hands on it of course.

Cutting up bread, she dipped them in the chocolate mixture, beginning to pack away, before heading back to the medical office to bring back the leftover supplies.

On her way back however she noticed something out of the corner of her eye. Medicinal herbs. What were such clusters doing inside the rear palace, Maomao wondered, but she soon realised she didn’t much care. She was wearing her servant clothing; she figured no one would judge her to hard if she decided to indulge. At least a little bit.

~ * ~

It was late when she returned to the Jade Pavillion. Outside she found both Gaoshun and Hongniang standing outside. She bowed perfectly “Apologies for the delay.” When Maomao straightened she realised they seemed displeased, more so than usual.

Following them inside she discovered both Jinshi and Gyokuyou a mixture of emotions on their faces, and there on the ground were the other ladies in waiting.

Great…

~ * ~

“At least we know there effective” Jinshi seemed to be trying to make the best of the situation. He sat on a chair with Gaoshun behind him while Maomao kneeled at the low table.

Jinshi pointed to the tray with the chocolate covered bread, three pieces were missing “So these are the aphrodisiacs?”

“No, but these,” Maomao pulled a cloth, unwrapping it to reveal chocolate covered fruit, “are”

“Then what are the other ones”

“A midnight snack for me” She replied plainly

Jinshi’s eyes widened at that “excuse me!”

“Relax,” she rolled her eyes, allowing a little disrespect to enter her tone, “if you’re used to these kinds of stimulants, they won’t have much of an effect on you.”

His eyes narrowed slightly as if he was studying her “So it wouldn’t matter if I tried one”

That was when Gaoshun and Hongniang finally spoke exclaiming in unison that they begged to differ. Gyokuyou only laughed.

“It was a joke…”

A rather unfunny one if you asked Maomao, but now she was intrigued. Did Jinshi have that much experience with aphrodisiacs?

Maomao tried to picture him even more alluring than usual. She had once taken an aphrodisiac only to watch the effects in real time in front of her mirror, to picture Jinshi like that was incomprehensible. It would cause a scandal surely.

She continued her explanation “They are quite strong, so best to limit to one piece at a time. To many can cause nose bleeds.”

Then Lady Gyokuyou spoke up “perhaps you could make a batch for the emperor, to keep things lively.”

“It should be three times more potent than the usual tonic” Maomao replied

“Three! Perhaps I should stick with the tonic then.”

Maomao studied her for a moment before turning back to Jinshi “please only take them when you are alone with the intended person.”

Jinshi took the pouch standing up to leave, Lady Gyokuyou stood up as well and Maomao bowed as she watched her walk through the door opposite.

“I hope everything works out.” She mumbled to herself.

Just then she felt one of her beaded strands lift off her shoulder as if someone was holding it. Then she felt it, a hand on her shoulder and a breath near her ear. A breath caught in her throat. The situation eerily similar to something that had happened some three years ago.

“Thank you, apothecary, for all of your work.” Jinshi spoke quietly into her ear, and a shiver went down her back. Just as quickly as he appeared, he withdrew. Maomao turned quickly but he was already gone. She would not be intimidated.

Maomao returned to her tray, only to find a fourth piece missing.

How troublesome.

Chapter Text

Maomao sat quietly at the low table, her back perfectly straight.

Before her sat an elaborate spread of food arranged on silver dishes, steamed fish glazed with sauce, delicate dumplings, fragrant rice, and bowls of clear soup whose steam curled softly into the air.

Across from her sat two of the most powerful people in the empire.

Lady Gyokuyou rested gracefully, her jade-green eyes calm and unreadable as always.

And beside her-

The emperor himself.

Maomao kept her gaze lowered as she examined the dishes one by one.

If she allowed herself to think too much about the situation, she might start to feel nervous. Sitting across from a man who could order her death with a flick of his hand was unsettling enough.

Doing so while hiding the fact that she was actually Lady Kan of the La Clan made the situation far more dangerous.

Lady Kan had only met the emperor a handful of times. She never spoke only standing a pace behind her father, bowing when it was necessary.

She doubted the emperor had ever truly noticed her, still the possibility was there.

She kept her head lowered as she observed the food. Picking up a silver bowl, she brought it to her nose, giving it an experimental sniff. Nothing odd, yet. She took a small bite, savouring the flavour. No bitter aftertaste, no strange sweetness, no tingling, no numbness. It was safe, unfortunately.

Still a part of her wished it had been poisoned. It was always entertaining, when someone did try to poison her. Their confused gaze when the poison failed to work. Those were often the last expressions they made before her guards removed them.

She returned to the present.

“This food is free of poison… please, excuse me” she made to stand, bowing lower than usual, before she was stopped by a voice.

“A moment”

She paused. That was the first time the emperor had ever addressed Maomao. She turned back lowering her head respectfully and waited.

“You’re famous apothecary”

Famous.

That wasn’t good. It seemed everyday Maomao’s plan to go unnoticed was slipping further and further away. If Lady Kan were here, she would have been rather amused.

The emperor continued “I have a request for you”

“Anything sire”

“Lady Lihua is ill.” He spoke calmly but Maomao could see the crease in his brow. “I need you to look after her.”

She knew what he really meant. He wanted Maomao to cure her. A request from the emperor, was a request from the heavens. The punishment for dismissing such a request was death.

Maomao glanced back to Gyokuyou, her face was as serene as before. Impressive.

Bowing once again she replied, “Of course, your Majesty.”

~ * ~

The Crystal Pavillion stood tall in the morning sun. Maomao walked up the stone steps, balancing a tray filled with porridge and broth in her hands. Beside her was Jinshi, he had insisted on accompanying her. Though he only seemed like a nuisance in Maomao’s eyes

As she reached the front door she was greeted by a group of ladies in waiting, though they hadn’t seemed to notice her yet. No, they were too focused on a certain eunuch. Some smiled dreamily, others giggling behind their sleeves, one even fainted, much to Maomao’s surprised.

She cleared her throat slightly, to get their attention. The dreamy smiles disappeared instantly as they turned their gazes to the newcomer.

The one at the front of the pack spoke “And who are you supposed to be?” she sneered.

“I am here to assist Lady Lihua in recovering from her illness.” She replied simply, better to get straight to the point.

The ladies laughed “you can’t be serious, what are you? A maid?”

“The physician has already visited our lady.”

“And what is that food, you can’t seriously be trying to feed Lady Lihua that! She needs nutritious food, not peasant food.”

Maomao smiled faintly. Oh how she wished she could reveal her true identity, to see their terrified faces when she threatened them with poison. She used to invoke her father’s name when she was in trouble, now however, she had to do no such thing.

“That is unfortunate” she spoke calmly “However my presence was requested by the emperor himself.”

The women stopped laughing

“If you wish to deny me entry” she continued politely “I will simply report your insubordination to his Majesty.”

Their faces seemed to pale at that, a few glanced nervously at Jinshi but he only offered a slow confirming nod

The ladies parted, and the doors opened immediately, allowing Maomao access to the pavilion.

The interior of the Crystal Pavillion was rather quiet, too quiet. There was certainly a lack of proper super vison, where was their head lady in waiting? Maomao slowly walked up the stairs to the bedroom being sure not to spill the food on her tray.

She entered Lady Lihua’s bedroom, instantly she was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of incense. There was so much she felt almost dizzy. Placing the tray down she kneeled beside the bed. Jinshi and the others entering the room after her.

The consort laid motionless underneath the embroidered sheets, her complexion far too pale. Maomao carefully used the spoon to pick up some porridge, bringing it to the consort’s mouth.

The consort swallowed weakly, Maomao used a cloth to wipe the edges of her mouth, pausing briefly. Something was wrong. The pale complexion had disappeared under the cloth showing a slightly tanner skin tone.

Maomao froze, her eyes widening. Anger flashed through her. The powder. she turned around slowly. These incompetent ladies in waiting.

Her gaze moved over them, landing on the one who had spoken to her first when she had arrived. Walking over to her, she spoke slowly, carefully.

“Are you the one in charge of the consort’s makeup?”

“Yes, that’s me. We want Lady Lihua to always remain beautiful” the girl laughed, the one next to her mocking her.

“Stupid girl, doesn’t she know that’s our job.”

“I see”

The slap echoed loudly throughout the room, the girl was soon on the ground clutching her cheek, in pain, good, Maomao thought.

“What is wrong with you?!” one of the other ladies in waiting shrieked.

Maomao glared down at the girl “Me? Just punishing an idiot, clearly” and with that she grabbed a fistful of the girl’s hair, pulling hard, as she dragged her across the hard wooden floors.

“Ow! That hurts! Stop it” the girl cried, but Maomao was too busy, she rapidly opened up the draws until she found what she was looking for, opening up the ceramic container, she dumped the white powder over the girl. The girl shrieked, coughing. She smiled slightly. Lady Kan was accustomed to intimidating others, but very rarely was she allowed to use physical force. It was quite fun, she had to admit, seeing the poor girl crying her eyes out covered in poison.

Kneeling down, she spoke quietly, her voice hard “The poison will affect your whole body in a while. On the bright side, you’ll leave a beautiful corpse.” She could barely hide her disgust. The girl looked as if she were about to hyperventilate, her sleeve over her mouth trying not to breathe in the toxic fumes. How ironic.

“This was banned for a reason.” Her voice was getting louder, thought there was no hesitation “Or are you too dumb to see that!” she grabbed the lady in waiting’s hair forcing her to face her mistress, still lying motionless in her bed.

“I… I thought it would make Lady Lihua happy.” The girl tried to justify it; her hands bunched into her robe, shaking. She wanted to look away, but her eyes didn’t leave her lady.

Grabbing the girls chin Maomao forced her face to turn towards her, bringing it closer then was necessary. “Like I said, it’s poison. You think you know everything, but there are no thoughts in that head of yours” Maomao’s hand grabbed some of the powder from the ground, slapping it into the girl’s face leaving a white handprint “You think she wants to be adorned in the poison that killed her son!”

The girl slumped over, crying uncontrollably. Maomao wouldn’t have minded tormenting her a little longer, she deserved it after all, but instead she left it at that, standing up she glared down at the girl. “Go rinse your mouth out and wash your face.”

She turned to the other ladies in waiting, her voice carrying the authority of someone used to being in command “Clean this mess up at once, I don’t need this poison getting near the patient.”

The other ladies looked at her terrified, answering her, they split off into groups some searching for supplies, while others comforted the crying girl. Not that she deserved the comfort, Maomao thought, but she didn’t voice it aloud.

“Huh,” A voice sounded behind her “scary, how women can change”  Maomao stiffened at that and cursed herself, she had forgotten Jinshi was in the room. She didn’t regret what she did, only that he was there to see it.

~ * ~

That night Maomao wrote a letter to her brother, explaining the situation, doing her best to keep her new status out of the picture. The lady in waiting had hidden the powder after it had been banned and now, she had been put into confinement. Apparently after she had served her punishment, she would be permitted to serve her mistress again. Or so Master Jinshi had told her.

A horrible idea in Maomao’s opinion. If a servant of the La Clan was found to be harming a member of her family, they would be dead before they could defend their actions. The girl was from a rich family, as it turns out, one that worked closely with her brother.

She would just have to ask him to take care of it, and if he refused, only then would she involve herself.

The rest of the ladies continued their duties as normal. They cleaned and fed their lady, cleaning up any messes they had neglected over the previous days. They seemed to be rather scared to speak back to Maomao, lowering their eyes to the ground whenever she entered the room, doing whatever she commanded of them without complaint.

~ * ~

Later that night, Jinshi sat in his residence, staring thoughtfully at the lantern that hung on the opposite wall. His meeting with the emperor had gone exactly as expected. Almost.

He had predicted that the emperor would request the apothecary to treat Lihua. He had even offered to escort her to the Crystal Pavillion. But one thing had surprised him. Her.

He had expected hesitation, perhaps nervousness, maybe even a request for his help. Instead she had forced her way inside and slapped a lady in waiting hard enough to leave the girl crying on the floor. She had taken control of the entire pavilion.

Jinshi leaned back slowly.

He knew she had grown up in the pleasure district. But the way she issued orders, the way others obeyed without question. That was not the behaviour of a common servant. There was something strange about that girl. Something he had not yet figured out.

All the more intriguing.  

~ * ~

Maomao stood in the middle of the laundry area, servant girls surrounded her, tending to their regular duties. The scent of soap and linen filled the air. She hung up a large dripping sheet, using the chore as an excuse to escape the pavilion for a while. Her posture had changed over the last few days, not as straight as Maomao would have liked. She had started to grow tired, dark circles continuing to grow under her eyes.

“You look tired.”

Her back straightened, she was far too tired for courtesy “Thanks you” she practically glowered “unlike someone, I have been busy.” Perhaps if she couldn’t see him, he’d hurry up and disappear.

Jinshi hummed. Apparently not.

“We brought gifts” she turned around at that. Gaoshun had become a great asset. Though Maomao was using this trip to escape her future husband, if he turned out to be anything like the older eunuch, perhaps it wouldn’t be so bad.

Then again, her family was built on lies, deception, and loyalty. To marry into another house would cause her to prioritise her husband. Something she couldn’t see herself doing. Her status was as high as it could be without marrying into the royal family, so what was the point anyway.

She munched on the gift, some savory buns, her favourite. “Is there anything I can do to help you” Jinshi said.

This guy. Though if he was offering. Her lips turned up into a smile, his eyes widened at that “Anything” he repeated “Anything at all”

Maomao watched them walk away. It was strange how Jinshi offered up his power and influence so freely to her. She barely had to put in the effort. If this was what he gave her now than what would he offer her when the time came. Maomao intended to find out.

It was almost time to head back to the Crystal Pavilion, but before that, she decided to spare Xiaolan a visit. No doubt the girl would have some interesting gossip to share.

~ * ~

The steam bath was completed quickly under Master Jinshi’s guidance. Maomao wondered how many concubines were being neglected by Jinshi’s strange proclivities.

The other ladies in waiting continued serving their mistress, though they were still rather incompetent compared to the Jade pavilion ladies.

Lady Lihua recovered quickly, the steam bath working wonders, flushing the last of the illness out of the body.

Maomao on the other hand, could barely function. Her eyelids felt heavy, and she felt her body slouch as the day went on. She feared her undesirable appearance would cause the other ladies to stop taking her seriously.

Lady Kan wasn’t used to working so hard. Apart from tending to her garden of course, and Maomao though she had done chores countless times in the pleasure district felt as if this was somehow different. Her mind was mentally exhausted from all of the sleepless nights. Her mind too tired to even analysis the conversations happening around her.

Stiffly she collapsed onto the seating arrangement, her eyes closing instantly. She rarely allowed herself such unguarded moments, she really must be going soft. As her breathing evened out, a hand reached out slowing stroking through her emerald hair, it was the last thing Maomao felt before she fell asleep.  

~ * ~

“I will be leaving for the Jade Pavillion in the morning my lady.” She spoke calmly; her hands folded neatly before her. “I have given your ladies in waiting the proper instructions to oversee the rest of your care.”

Lady Lihua, in all her elegance, looked unsure for a moment, before quickly nodding “am I able to bear children?” she asked quietly, so quietly Maomao was sure only she had heard the question.

“I am unsure my lady. Perhaps if you want more, you should try.”

“The emperor’s affections for me have all but disappeared.”

“If that were true why did his Majesty order me to take care of you? Once I return to the Jade Pavillion, perhaps the emperor will be inclined to pay you a visit.”

The consort looked down at her lap, before clenching her fists “I chose to ignore the advice you gave, in the end I allowed my child to die. Concubine Gyokuyou has won.”

Something came of Maomao in that moment, and emotion she couldn’t quite place. Perhaps it was from her time in the pleasure district. How she had watched countless women compete over the affections of a man, only to lose themselves in the process. Every single time.

“It is not about winning or losing. There are hundreds, if not thousands of flowers in the world. Comparing a peony to a bellflower is pointless, who has the right to judge which is more beautiful.”

Lihua scoffed “But even so, I possess neither her Jade eyes, nor her bright hair.”

Maomao looked down “You have other assets I see”

And with that Maomao leaned down to share a technique to the consort, one she could use much more usefully than Maomao.

Chapter Text

Dear Daughter,

Your efforts have not been in vain. Just this morning a certain bureaucrat was caught in possession of our favourite snack. We of course took him to dinner, to thank him, and naturally disposed of the leftovers.

From,

Father

~ * ~

Maomao sat on her bed as she stared at the letter. She had situated herself in the laundry area during her breaks as a food taster, hoping to garner more information she could send home.

She had been in luck, overhearing a group of eunuchs mentioning a bureaucrat who had been openly opposing a military operation, the same one her father was commanding.

According to Xiaolan, the bureaucrat had a daughter who served as a low-ranking concubine. A concubine who had been seen harvesting plants from the garden, one’s Maomao knew to be poisonous. Alone those two events could be seen as mere coincidences. But coupled with the concubine leaving the rear palace for a court event. Well it was enough information to alert her father.

It embarrassed Maomao slightly, speaking in such code. But if anyone were to find the letters, they would neither know the recipient nor the content.

She regularly wrote to her father and brother, exchanging intel.

However, each week it seemed she received less letters from her mother.

Sighing she placed the letter back in her box, returning it underneath her bed. Her days had gotten busier, ever since a certain eunuch discovered she had a knack for solving puzzles.

Just the other week he requested her help with a sleepwalker. A concubine who was seen dancing on top of the palace wall. She had done her best, concluding that she had faked the condition, but the reason for the faking, well Maomao had kept that to herself. No need to speak more than necessary. Her mother had taught her that.

Her talent for solving puzzles was like any other.

She had only become so competent to ensure her survival. Staying three steps ahead of one’s enemy was imperative to staying alive, something Lady Kan knew well.

Perhaps she could entertain him, at least for a little bit.

Maomao looked out her window, the weather was warm, and a soft breeze caused the curtains of her room to sway softly. It was still early morning. Lunch wouldn’t be served for another two hours. She glanced over at her desk where she had hidden the mushrooms. She had been ecstatic when they had caught her gaze. Jumping up and down in a way that wasn’t dignified for someone of her station. Although neither medicinal nor poisonous, they were delicious. And she had some time to kill, maybe she should grace the quack doctor with her presence.

~ * ~

The medical office was quiet when she arrived. Maomao had learnt quickly that no one really used the facility unless it was their last resort, much to her disappointment.

She walked up the few steps, entering the open door. The doctor, what was his name again? sat at the low table, seemingly writing some sort of letter. how intriguing, Maomao was unaware he had such contacts, perhaps family.

Sneaking up behind him, she only just managed to catch a glimpse before he turned to face her, a smile spreading across his features.

“Little lady! What a lovely surprise. What are you doing here?” His voice squeaked. If Maomao didn’t know him better, she might have suspected he was actually trying to hide something from her. Luckily, he was a horrible secret keeper, one of the reasons she kept him close for gossip.

She smirked slightly, “there’s something I wanted to show you”

“And what’s that?”

“This” holding up the basket so he could look inside, her eyes sparkled, her voice going up an octave, surprising even her.

He stared at the mushrooms in awe “OoOh let’s do this right! We need charcoal, soy paste, and salt!” he waddled off to get the ingredients, and Maomao made herself comfortable.

Now he’s an accomplice, she thought to herself. Her family had never been interested in her gardening habits, save for her uncle. A far away memory suddenly invaded her mind.

She had once been gifted some seeds during a visit to the pleasure district. She had been delighted, planting them as soon as she returned home. After they grew, she had excitedly shown anyone she could.

Her mother had stared at her for a moment before stating that she clean her dress, which had been stained with mud.

Her father had been too busy, telling her he’d ask again later only to forget.

And her brother, well he had stared at her before saying something about her numbers being too low.

She had learnt quickly to only speak business with her family. It was nice to have someone care about her hobbies, even if that someone was incompetent at their job. Maomao found herself savouring the moment before locking it away to analyse later, like every new feeling she didn’t understand.

The quack returned with the supplies and Maomao set to work. She placed the finished mushrooms on a plate, her mouth practically watering as the smell wafted to her nose.

It was just as delicious as she remembered from the pleasure district, the quack seemed to feel the same, a look of joy emanating from his face. Just as she was about to reach for another mushroom a person entered the medical office, a eunuch. His eyes were wide, but his brow was creased, sweat dripping down. He must have ran here.

“Please! You have to help me” the man cried

The quack looked unsure for a second, before responding. Maomao doubted he regularly help patients like this. “What seems to be the issue?”

“Do you know how to…” he hesitated for a second, swallowing loudly “to remove curses?” now that got Maomao’s attention, she had been sitting off to the side waiting patiently.

The man showed his hands, which had turned a deep red, Maomao placed a hand on her chin, leaning over the hand slightly to get a better look. “That looks like a rather nasty rash. Maybe try an ointment first.” Of course there was no such thing as curses, if there was, no doubt Maomao would have one of her own by now, with how many enemies she had.

“Would you be able to make an ointment?” The quack asked

“At once”

Looking through the various draws, she got to work, taking out the pre-crushed herbs and mixing them together to create a thick paste.

As she mixed, she kept one ear towards the other occupants, listening to their discussion.

“It was two nights ago. I was on garbage duty; everything was normal until I found a torn-up dress wrapped around different coloured text plates. I had thought it was strange, but I threw it in the fire anyway turning around to grab the next thing when suddenly,” He threw his arms up in the air to emphasis “the fire started changing colours. First yellow, then red, then blue, and green. It was so surreal, that was when I looked down, to see this.” He looked mournfully down “I thought I had been cursed, but for what I didn’t know.”

Maomao grabbed a piece of wood, lighting it so a small fire began to burn “Did the fire look like this” Maomao sprinkled salt onto the makeshift fire creating a bright yellow “or did it look like this” the fire turned a vibrant red “or maybe like this” once again the fire transformed colours this time to a glowing blue.

“H-how are you doing that?” his eyes stared wide before Maomao blew the fire out.

“Different substances change the colour of a flame. For example, salt turns it yellow.” A clap suddenly sounded from the doorway.

The sparkly eunuch stood there, a broad smile on his face. “Brilliant as always apothecary.”

She glared at him, only causing him to smile more, masochist. How did he always seem to find her anyway.

“Ooh Master Jinshi! Let me go get some snacks, I’ll be right back.” Jinshi turned up the charm, giving him a small smile and nod. The Quack trotted off happily. He reminded Maomao of the court ladies whenever they caught a glimpse of the eunuch.

“Did you need something sir.” She asked, as monotone as ever. She was still irritated from the first interruption.

“Can’t we just… not talk business for once.”

A smile pulled at Maomao’s lips “Honestly sir, absolutely not.”

That seemed to annoy him, a pout gracing his features. Really how old is this guy, sometimes he acts like such a child.

But as quickly as it appeared, it was gone. “Walk with me will you.”

Maomao sighed, resigning herself to a day of many headaches.

~ * ~

It was lunch time when Maomao managed to untangle herself from Jinshi’s web. He had pulled her away to ask about the coloured fires. Maomao had been straightforward with him, she barely knew much. Perhaps her knowledge would be better if her experiments hadn’t been cut short from her almost burning the Verdigris House down when she was younger. Though she was still adamant that everything had been under control.

Still the coloured text plates were worrying, they were no doubt used as some kind of code, Maomao had used the very same concept to share messages with her father in the past. The only difference, she hadn’t gotten caught.

Maomao started to look at all of the clues. The coloured text plates had been found wrapped in a burnt dress. No doubt whoever disposed of the code would have either burn marks or rashes similar to that of the eunuchs.

She was so lost in thought she failed to see the chaos around her when she entered the pavilion until Yinghua started speaking to her. “Hey Maomao! Try this on for me will ya.”

Maomao looked up, frowning. Eunuchs walked around the pavilion busily placing boxes in different locations. Yinghua and the other ladies in waiting were putting things away. Why hadn’t Maomao been alerted, did the other ladies really believe her this incapable that they’d rather more work for themselves, or was this another product of the guilt for her risking her life to taste for poison. She had told them multiple times she enjoyed the job, if only to get them off her back, but they were rather stubborn.

“What is that?” Maomao asked, her eyes falling on a light pink dress. It was much less extravagant than the garments she wore when playing the part of Lady Kan but much more than the green and burgundy outfit she wore day to day.

“It’s your outfit for the garden party.”

Maomao resisted the urge to roll her eyes. She had attended only two garden parties in her life, alongside either her father or brother. It was quite boring in her opinion. She was sure it was only enjoyable for the emperor.

She hesitated before answering, it would look strange if she complained, a low born serving girl like herself wouldn’t know what a garden party was. Great she would have to make a fool of herself if she was going to protect her identity.

“What’s a garden party” she asked, tilting her head. She tried to make herself look confused, but she was sure it didn’t come out right.

“Right you weren’t here for the last one were you” Yinghua’s eyes lit up.

Maomao was confused at that. Garden parties were boring. Yinghua should be ranting about how horrible the event was, not getting excited. Or perhaps the girl was excited to make Maomao miserable, yes that must be it.

“The garden party, is an event where his Majesty, high ranking court officials and high consort’s get together to celebrate and enjoy the entertainment!” Yinghua said excitedly. Now that Maomao thought about it, she reminded her a lot of Xiaolan.

“What are we celebrating?” she knew the answer, but she didn’t mind playing along, she was interested to hear Yinghua’s answer. Unfortunately that was when Gyokuyou decided to join in the conversation.

 “Nothing really. We are simply expected to follow the emperor, nothing more, nothing less.” Maomao nodded.

Yinghua continued “last garden party, both Lady Gyokuyou and Lady Lihua had to miss it, since they had just given birth. This time they decided to invite all four high ranking consorts!”

So Lishu and Ah Duo would be there too. Maomao had yet to meet either of them, only ever seeing them from a distance. She knew Ah Duo had given birth to the emperor’s first son, only for him to die as an infant.

And Lishu, well Maomao felt for the girl, she was only a few years younger than Maomao herself and had become the previous emperor’s concubine at the age of nine. That could have been me. She thought to herself, just the thought of being married off to that paedophile made a shiver go down her spine.

Her mind came back to the present as the offending dress was pushed into her hands and Yinghua spun her around telling her to hurry up and try it on.

~ * ~

Maomao stood in front of the stove stirring the candied orange peels occasionally. She had wanted to add a special ingredient, but the others had all wanted some themselves. She would have to skip it just this once. She had tried on the dress like Yinghua had asked. It had looked fine. But she had a nagging feeling against wearing anything prettier than what she wore on a regular basis. That was why being a laundry maid was good, no need to worry about clothing choices when you had a uniform.

Maomao sighed softly. The rest of the day had been uneventful. Her tasting duties went by without issue, and she had helped put away all of the new outfits and accessories, much to the other lady’s complaints.

Everything was fine, so why was Maomao’s mind so lost. This text plate issue was puzzling her, and she wanted nothing more to solve it, hating to leave anything open ended. It was a bad habit of hers needing to know everything she could about something.

After the garden party, she promised herself, she would investigate the matter more. Whether Master Jinshi asked for her help or not.

~ * ~

Maomao sat on a wooden bench next to Xiaolan, the girl had really grown into her own over the last few months. Without Maomao there to give orders she had begun taking more initiative.

After returning from the Crystal Pavilion, the other ladies in waiting had looked at her in horror, and after asking if there was something on her face, they exclaimed that she looked like she was about to drop dead.

Apparently the dark circles under her eyes, combined with her figure which had lost some weight, was enough to cause fussing that extended throughout the week. Not only did they stop her from helping with chores, but they forced even more food on her then usual, food she was now sharing with Xiaolan.

 “It’s so great when your superiors share their food with you, it’s like a mini tea party” the girl exclaimed happily, while munching on a sweet treat that wasn’t to Maomao’s taste.

Xiaolan continued “Oh, has anything interesting happened since you got back”

Maomao thought for a second “Well, there is a garden party Lady Gyokuyou is attending soon.”

Xiaolan’s eyes widened for a moment “A garden party, I remember when we attended those garden parties, they were so fun!”

“Yeah if by fun you mean standing out in the cold, while your adoptive brother complains that your numbers are dropping by the minute.”

“Do you think your family will be there?”

“I hope not. I really don’t want to explain to them why I’m there, considering they’ll see me act as a poison taster anyway.”

Xiaolan considered something for a moment “Master Lakan probably won’t be there; he always tried to get out of those events. Master Lahan on the other hand…” she trailed off.

Maomao groaned. She didn’t know what was worse. Well as long as her mother wasn’t there she would probably survive. “What’s worse is that I told Lady Hongniang that I was planning on sowing pockets into my underrobes and now everyone wants one. Even Master Jinshi and the emperor’s own seamstress.” Her hands were thrown up to accentuate her point.

“Wow Maomao I didn’t know you were so sought after.” The girl was looking at her in awe, Maomao wasn’t sure why, all noble ladies learnt sowing and embroidery.

She was about to say something more when she was interrupted by a laundry maid. “Xiaolan! Get back to work”

“Coming!” she called over her shoulder before turning back to Maomao waving “Bye Maomao! See you later!”

As Maomao started walking back to pavilion, she thought over the conversation. Xiaolan has been talking to her so casually later, it was nice. But there was something else. Maomao had changed  as well. She thought back  to their first day. Maomao had ordered Xiaolan to sit with the others, to make friends, and gather gossip. The girl had done exactly that. But now, Maomao was ranting and complaining to the girl, divulging to much information, doing the exact things she looked at others in disdain for. Was this what it felt like to have a friend a similar age. If it was Maomao couldn’t say she minded much.

She would have to analyse all of this later.

It needs a more logical view; I’ll look into it more when I’m less emotional.

~ * ~

The day of the garden party had come, much faster than Maomao would have liked. She stood there, her hair done slightly more befitting a lady in waiting, wearing that pink dress she had tried on only a few days prior.

The others were squealing about how beautiful their Lady looked, her crimson robes made her stand out, and with her jade eyes, Maomao could understand why she was the emperor’s favourite.

“Thank you” Gyokuyou said in the motherly tone she often adopted now that she had a daughter herself. “Now I have some gifts for all of you. I have to make sure you are all marked, so you don’t attract any bad bugs”

She placed an accessory on each of her ladies, before turning to Maomao. She placed a beautiful gold and jade necklace around her neck. It was unlike anything Maomao had ever worn, perhaps more similar to something Lady Kan would wear, though far more feminine.

Would Lady Kan make an appearance tonight she wondered. If so, exactly what trouble would she get into.

Lady Gyokuyou began to speak again. “Maomao I want you to remember that you are special lady in waiting.”

“I- thank you My Lady.” Was all she could muster.

Suddenly she was grabbed from behind, her arms restrained. She had to quickly remind herself she was safe, when Yinghua spoke directly into her ear. “Got her! time for makeup, Maomao. We’re going to wipe your face, apply some scents, and deal with those freckles.”

“Um wait…” she tried looking to the consort for help, but she only giggled.

“It’s time to be cuter than ever Maomao!” Great they had roped her into this too. Even Hongniang seemed excited. Maomao resigned herself to the fate of, well, whatever this was.

Guiyuan wiped her face with a wet rag, muffling whatever complaints Maomao was about to raise. Soon the rag was removed from her vision replaced by a group of confused faces.

“I don’t understand”

“Maomao…”

“Maomao, I didn’t realise”

Great, no point in hiding it now.

~ * ~

Jinshi finished his goodbyes to Consort Lishu before moving towards the Jade Pavilion, his final destination before the garden party, Gaoshun following close behind. But his thoughts were occupied by something else.

Jinshi was never good at letting go of things that intrigued him. Anyone that knew him during his childhood knew that. And this girl, was no exception. Every time he found himself visiting the Jade Pavilion he felt a sense of excitement at what he would learn of the new serving girl. She continued to surprise him. Showing him shy, confident, emotionless, and reserved sides. What he had barely seen however, was her personal side.

No matter how hard he tried to get close to her, she seemed to only divulge enough information to help them in the case. All he knew so far was that she grew up in the pleasure district, but why and how were still mysteries to him.

As he made his was closer, he quickly saw the consort, dressed in her crimson robes, he placed his honeyed smile on his face

“Greetings Lady Gyokuyou.”

“Greetings” she replied back, ever cheerful.

“My lady you certainly look stunning in crimson. Your gorgeous yet mysterious style must stem from your jade eyes. Yes that must be your secret.”

The consort giggled “You’re too kind”

Jinshi’s smile deepened, glancing over to his side he caught a glimpse of Gyokuyou’s daughter and someone else, that intrigued him far more. “Now to check in on the princess”

~ * ~

As soon as Maomao had heard Master Jinshi’s voice she had wanted to make herself scarce. The honeyed voice and overly done compliments, she was sure the ever-smart consort to see through him too, only humouring him to keep the peace.

 Instead she continued tending to Lingli. Only to hear Master Jinshi exclaim that it was time to check in on the princess.

She turned at that “hello there, Master Jinshi.”

He stared at her for a second, seemingly confused before his eyes widened. “Oh, it’s the apothecary” she was sure his pitch sounded higher than usual.

He suddenly smiled, Maomao decided she had a bad feeling about this. He pointed to his own face “are you wearing whitening powder”

“No, why?”

“It seems your freckles are all gone.”

She didn’t know why she said what she said next “My makeup is gone, and so are my freckles”

“I’m confused.”

She sighed, she should have just kept her mouth shut, she didn’t know why she had said it. Perhaps she had been poisoned, it would explain why she was suddenly talking far more than usual.

“Cosmetics aren’t always for making a face look more beautiful”

He seemed even more confused, maybe he wasn’t as smart as she originally thought. She was far too deep into this; she hadn’t even told Lady Gyokuyou or the others the truth when they had first found out.

For the first time, Maomao was glad she had stayed up all night developing a new cover story after becoming a lady in waiting. As Lady Kan she had a habit of lying when she knew she could get away with it. It was interesting to see how far she could stretch the truth. Or sometimes passing on the truth all together.

“Then let me be blunt. It’s to prevent being drugged into a back alley.” His eyes widened.

She continued “I grew up in the pleasure district, each night, hundreds of men would visit the brothels. But not all of them left satisfied. Some had empty wallets, or diseases. A short, skinny, ugly girl rarely becomes a target.” That part was true at least, she had begun wearing freckles not only to further hide her identity, but also to make her look undesirable.

Jinshi looked unsure for a second before quietly asking “Were you ever harmed?”

Maomao on the other hand looked as carefree as ever. “Attempts were made” that was also true, she had once been on an errand with Ukyou when she had lost sight of him, she soon felt a hand wrap around her wrist a drunk man staring down at her.

Her fear had spiked and she had tried to pull away from him, but he was far stronger than her even while being drunk. She had been saved when Ukyou had found them, punching the man until he lay unconscious on the ground.

She returned to the present, continuing her story, revealing her newest backstory “But instead I was kidnapped.” That was true as well. Only a few months before she was granted her break in the rear palace, an attempted kidnapping was made against her. she had been rescued by Lihaku a soldier who worked for her father and had been tasked with her protection on multiple occasions. The thugs had been dealt with, and it had been concluded that they were unaware of her true identity.

She did wonder though, if they had succeeded in kidnapping her, where would she have been sold off to. How different would her life be. How quickly would her father have found her, if at all.

She looked back to Master Jinshi, he looked sad for some reason. Why she didn’t know. To him she was just a servant girl, no doubt thousands of servant girls had been kidnapped and sold off to the rear palace before her.

“I’m so sorry. If only… we could have policed them better.”

“I don’t particularly mind now. A buyer can’t tell whether you were sold off legally, they can’t tell and they don’t really care.” Maomao couldn’t even remember the number of times she had seen terrified girls forced into the pleasure district, obviously kidnapped, yet still happily bought by the brothels.

His fists and jaw clenched. “Doesn’t that make you angry”

She shrugged “Of course it does. But it’s not your fault and what can I do about it in this moment.” That was a lie of course. If she really had been kidnapped she would find a way to poison her captors. That or her father would have them killed the second he discovered what they had done.

“I’m sorry” he voice trembled

Huh he looks like he’s about to cry, is he being real for once. Perhaps I went too far.

His hand reached up to his hair pulling something out, but Maomao was too busy studying his face to notice. Suddenly she felt something sharp poke into her scalp, and his hand rested on her hair for a moment longer than was necessary.

She reached up to push his hand away “That hurts.”

“But… it’s yours now”

He stood up straight, turning to look at Lady Gyokuyou, Maomao had almost forgotten the others were here. “I will see you at the garden party” and with that he turned on his heel and walked off, though much slower than how he had arrived.

She knew before she even pulled the object out what it was. A hairpin, a man’s hairpin. She wasn’t an idiot. She knew exactly what receiving a hair pin from a man meant. She had, after all, received dozens of hair pins from rich noble men and their sons over the years. She had thrown most of them away, having no interest other than using a few of them as weapons when men decided to get too close.

She wondered if Master Jinshi knew what he was declaring giving her this. No doubt it looked improper for the manager of the rear palace to give his hairpin to the precious consort’s food taster.

Of course though a pleasure district born apothecary would never understand what a hairpin meant, she would have to play dumb once again.

She pulled the pin out of her hair. It was rather simple, let elegant, and obviously very expensive. Maomao wondered how much she could get from it if she sold it.

Just then, the squealing started

“Oh my gosh”

“Aww he gave you his hairpin”

“I want a man’s hairpin too”

She looked at it, then at the others confusingly. A man’s hairpin only meant trouble. By accepting it you were seen to be accepting their advances. By refusing you were seen as disrespectful and rude. Something a noble lady should never be.

Lady Gyokuyou walked over to her, taking the hair pin out of her hand and placing it back in her hair, much more gently this time. She gave her a genuine smile. “Well it seems you are no longer mine alone.”

Just then a loud gong sounded, Maomao and the others turned towards it. Lady Gyokuyou continued “and so the garden party begins.”

Chapter Text

Maomao walked around the pavilion slowly. It was customary for the consorts to arrive for the beginning of the event, which was fine, except for the fact that they had yet to set up the shelter, allowing a strong wind to blow through. She was glad she had sown in the pockets; the warming stones were comforting, she could only guess how much worse it would be without them.

When Lady Kan had attended this events in the past, its purpose had been like any other, to network. Lakan would spend his time speaking with ministers he didn’t respect, his smile never reaching his eyes. Fengxian would watch alliances being formed like a strategist on a battlefield. It was for that reason Maomao was sure neither would be here today. Her father had no interest attending useless parties, not when he could be far more productive.

However wherever funds were involved Lahan was sure to be close behind. No doubt he would be lingering nearby, a member of the planning committee.

He would be her biggest nuisance, though she doubted he would make much of a scene, worse come to worse she would simply have to motivate him.

She had done so before.

She continued walking, the trees swaying in the breeze. She stayed as far from the military officials as she could, praying none recognised her. it was why she hadn’t wanted to dress up. Even if the dress was rather tame compared to those she wore as Lady Kan.

It felt strange, as Lady Kan she never left the estate without her veil, and as Maomao she never left it without her freckles. She felt almost… naked.

Maomao let the noise of the garden party fade as she drifted toward the outer edges of the grounds. Voices thinned, exchanges turning quieter, more subtle.

A group of ministers stood beneath a tree just ahead. Their robes neat and pristine, their expressions strained, speaking in hushed voices, one clutched a scroll in his hand. As Maomao passed, their eyes flickered to her before dismissing her as nothing more than a servant. Maomao slowed her steps so she could listen.

“…allocation has already been approved”

“That was before the northern route…”

“And yet the funds have vanished…”

Interesting. Finance ministers. Maomao’s lips curved upwards. She stepped closer, just enough to be seen as inconvenient.

One of the men glanced at her with irritation. “You. Why are you lingering here?”

Maomao blinked, feigning surprise. She lowered her gaze obediently, her tone mild. “My apologies, I was told to deliver a message.”

The men stiffened instantly.

“To whom?” one asked

Maomao tilted her head slightly “I wasn’t given a name. only that it concerned a discrepancy.”

The men fell silent, exchanging looks. The one holding the scroll tightened his grip. “What kind of discrepancy?” he asked carefully.

Maomao hesitated “I’m not certain,” she replied, “something about missing allocations?”

Their reaction was immediate, dropping into quick harsh whispers.

“I told you this would happen…”

“Not here”

“You said it was handled”

Maomao took a small step back, her gaze falling to the ground, hiding her satisfaction. She lowered into a bow “It seems I’ve made a mistake. Please forgive me.”

None of the men so much as glanced at her as she walked away, no doubt a new mess for her brother to clean up.

Maomao continued down her path, adjusting her sleeves as she passed servants moving around quickly. They were too busy to pay attention to her. Maomao slowed as she passed by a group of junior attendants struggling to fold colourful cloths intended for the party.

She let out a small sigh. “Incompetent” she murmured.

The attendants stiffened immediately trying to defend themselves, but she cut them off before they could. “Those aren’t meant to be stacked like that.” She said simply. “The top layer is for presentation, not transport. Do you intend to embarrass the entire party?”

Their faces paled

“No!”

“Then fix it” she left no room for argument, the attendants rushing to fix the mistake, their hands fumbling.

Maomao watched before continuing “And you…” she pointed to a random attendant, “take those to the eastern seating.”

“But we were told…”

She cut in sharply “By whom?”

The girl faltered “I… I don’t…”

Maomao let out a loud sigh “Then follow the most recent instruction, unless you would prefer I report the delay.”

The group suddenly looked even more frightened, quickly scattering to complete the jobs. Maomao stepped back from the group. Folding her arms into her sleeves. A minute later a senior attendant arrived, pausing. “What is going on here?” she sounded irritated.

None of them answered, they couldn’t. Maomao slipped away from the scene.

Maomao rarely allowed herself to indulge in such disruption. Such interference was usually beneath her, but she was rarely allowed outside the rear palace, and she had wanted to gather the courts weaknesses before returning.

She was sure her brother would fire such ministers after hearing of their incompetence. And those attendants, well they needed to learn sooner or later not to be so trustful.

Maomao passed by the food preparation areas. Servants moved around quickly, Maomao looked over the scene when her gaze caught on a figure standing still, too still. She kept moving, watching out of her peripheral, it was enough to glimpse the glass bottle catching the light. How entertaining. Maomao kept moving, her face as passive as ever.

She wondered how much more time she had before one of the other Jade Pavilion ladies would find her and drag her back.

Perhaps I should return, at least then I would have an alibi, should anything happen.

As she was about to turn back, she caught a glimpse of something shining in the sun, glass. No, glasses. She had half an idea to turn around but the man only a year older than her had already seen her and was beginning to make the short walk over to where she stood.

She had half the thought to stomp on his toes for being so obvious, luckily no one was around to see their exchange. Not yet anyway.

He adjusted his glasses as he walked up to her, he seemed almost out of breath. Weak.

“Sister, what a pleasant surprise” He spoke after taking a few deep breaths.

She grimaced “Lahan, what are you doing here?”

“I should be asking you that sister, I was certain laundry maids weren’t allowed outside the rear palace, unless their term is finished.”

Her glare increased as she looked away “I received an exemption.”

“Now, now sister, you know you shouldn’t lie to your honoured elder brother.” She stepped on his toes, and he doubled over in pain. She smirked slightly; he really ought to do something about his weakness by now.

“I’m not lying.”

“Right, I’m sure, then tell me dear sister, why are you wearing robes reserved for the ladies in waiting of the precious consort.” He looked entirely too pleased with himself, Maomao, however, could only glare harder.

“There was a change of plans”

“Oh yes I’m sure” she went to step on his toes again, but he managed to dodge her attempt. Bastard.

“Does this perhaps have anything to do with the death of the emperor’s son, sister.”

“Unfortunately, yes. Apparently I wasn’t as hidden as I once thought, I was discovered to be behind delivering a message to both the wise and precious consort.”

“Lady Kan getting caught, I never thought I’d see the day.”

“Shut up. You’re already calling me sister, if anyone hears you we’ll both lose our heads.” Maomao snapped, she was getting rather sick of this conversation.

He held his hands up in mock surrender. “Apologies, apologies. Though I must say mother is still quite displeased at that stunt you pulled at the banquet.”

She narrowed her eyes “I’m not sure what you’re talking about.”

“Don’t play dumb with me sister, we both know you were involved in the minister’s untimely death. When we received the news we were all quite saddened.”

“Of course you were, though like I said before I’m not sure what you mean.” Before he responded, she quickly continued, realising something, “Is father here.”

“No. unfortunately how honoured father was unable to attend. Lihaku is attending in his place.” She raised her eyebrows at that. She would have assumed they would send someone of higher rank, though perhaps the soldier had received yet another promotion.

“Is Rikuson here as well?” Maomao asked.

Lahan adjusted his glasses before he spoke, “Oh you know how the man is, he comes and goes as he can. He was here an hour ago to set up, but he got called away to assist father.”

“Right” Maomao knew this conversation was dragging on. If anyone had spotted them it was obvious their conversation was closer than that of mere acquaintances. But there was one thing he needed to know, that he would inevitably find out anyway.

“There’s something else, Lahan. Something you must not tell either mother or father about.”

“What is it?”

“I am not just a lady in waiting… I am Consort Gyokuyou’s food taster.”

Lahan’s eyes widened at the revelation, he opened his mouth before closing it just as quickly. He appeared speechless.

“Mother and father will not be pleased.” Was all he said.

“Which is exactly why you must not tell them.” Maomao could tell he was still on her side. After all, if she even suspected he might speak of her secret, she would have no choice but to slip an extra ingredient into his meal today.

“Sister, you must understand, there is a difference between acting as your own food taster, and a food taster for a high consort, someone who’s food has been poisoned multiple times.”

“My food has been poisoned far too many times; you never seemed concerned about any of those.”

He seemed to be lost for words. Maomao looked back the way she had come, there were a few ministers standing near them, but Maomao realised she had been gone far too long; someone was surely looking for her.

She turned back to Lahan, bowing with practised ease. “Then I will see you later, and please, enjoy the entertainment.”

~ * ~

Maomao stood there, listening to Guiyuan speak of proxy wars. She understood them quite well, after all she was involved in many herself, in the outer court of course. She did wonder, however, why Lishu’s and Ah Duo’s ladies fought so much, the two consorts cared about each other, why would they not put a stop to such fighting.

Just then the two heard Yinghua’s normally cheerful voice, filled with an unusual anger. Guiyuan sighed. “It seems Yinghua has gotten herself into a proxy war, we should go back her up.”

As Maomao walked over, she spotted the Crystal Pavilion ladies. She smirked slightly, recognising them both. She could only just make out the conversation as she got closer.

“And that girl,” one of them sneered “No amount of makeup could fix that.” The other girl laughed.

“You take that back, now.” Maomao had never seen Yinghua quite so angry.

They were obviously talking about Maomao. She knew quite well how different she looked in her servant attire, after all that was the whole point. It was strange though; the women had looked over to her when she had walked over but for some reason hadn’t recognised her.

And after all the fun we had. Maomao mused.

She approached them still behind Yinghua and Ailan. One of the girls looked up at her, Maomao placed her hand up to her face covering her nose, or in other words, where her freckles would normally be. She smirked slightly seeing the obvious recognition on the girl’s face. After Maomao had graced her with some brothel humour during her stay, the lady in waiting had steered clear of her.

The girl grabbed her friends hand running off with a terrified look upon her face.

“Don’t listen to them Maomao” Yinghua turned around bringing Maomao out of her thoughts.

“Oh I don’t mind” Lady Kan had gotten quite used to being ridiculed by court ladies, though unfortunately for them, they all seemed to fall ill rather quickly afterwards.

Maomao continued “Though it is time to switch out those warming stones.” Turning to grab more stones with the tongs, she was unaware of the looks of awe on the other girls’ faces.

~ * ~

Maomao had switched out the stones, hoping to go for one last walk before her duties as food taster took precedence. Her feet moved through the crowd of people, the number slowly dwindling as she moved further away.

Suddenly she caught sight of a rather tall man, one she knew quite well. She looked down to his belt which was filled with hand crafted hairpins, not as expensive as Master Jinshi’s but it could satisfy her needs for now.

“Master Lihaku” she called, waving as she walked over.

The man looked over at the sound, eyes widening before a look of confusion settled on his face. He went to bow, but Maomao stopped him with a raise of her hand. He decided to switch to greeting her verbally.

“My Lady, what are you doing here?” He asked

She chose her words carefully “I was sent to the rear palace, for a break.”

“The rear palace? Master Lakan did mention that you were staying away from the residence, though I assumed you were just at the Verdigris House again My Lady. I’m guessing you aren’t here as a consort”

She bit her lip “No, I’m not. I’m a food taster for Lady Gyokuyou. It would serve you well to not use such formal titles.”

Lihaku seemed to understand. She was glad she didn’t have to spell everything out for him. “Understood little miss.”

She quirked a brow, but didn’t say anything. Instead she pointed to his belt. “Are you handing out hairpins Master Lihaku?”

He looked down “Oh, yes. I wanted to hand out a few to the different pavilions. Master Lakan thought it could be useful.”

Of course he did. Maomao rolled her eyes

“Could I have one?” she asked.

He pointed to her hair “But you already have one, little miss, and don’t you usually throw away the hairpins you receive; you’ve never enjoyed them.”

“My reasoning has changed. As a lady in waiting I am trapped in the rear palace until my term ends. If you give me your hairpin, I can use that to leave for a few days.”

“You do realise what it will look like, right”

She rolled her eyes “Of course I know what it looks like, but all you will truly be is my guarantor.”

He still looked unsure “I don’t know, little miss.”

Both Lady Kan and Maomao were used to not getting their way, at first. However, they had grown up learning exactly how to motivate others. Maomao sighed lightly “If you agree… I will introduce you to Pairin.”

Lihaku gasped at that. He had wanted to meet her ever since he had first seen her after accompanying Maomao on a trip to the pleasure district. “Are you serious?!”

It would no doubt be added to her never-ending debt, but Maomao guessed it was the least she could do after he saved her from that kidnapping incident earlier in the year. “Yes I’m serious. Now do you agree to my terms. You will accompany me out of the rear palace in exchange for being introduced to Pairin?”

He nodded twice “Yes”

Maomao Smiled. “One more thing. Do not let my father know about this.”

Lihaku walked away just as the other ladies in waiting found her again. rushing over to see what the commotion was.

“Maomao! What was that all about?”

“Oh! Did you receive his hairpin?”

Maomao looked confusingly down at the hair pin in her hand, time to play the part.

“Yes, I’m pretty sure he was handing them out to everyone though.”

Suddenly a familiar voice ran out through the courtyard. “I believe you deserve much more.”

Maomao spun around her gaze catching the face of the wise consort. Maomao looked over the consort’s entourage, her ladies in waiting were mostly accounted for, except the one who hid the powder.

It seems Lahan finally did his job for once, though Maomao knew he was mostly just scared of what she would do if he didn’t.

Lihua walked up to her, Maomao dropped into a flawless bow. “My Lady it’s been a while”

The woman smiled “yes it has”

As Maomao straightened she felt something slide into her hair. A hairpin. It hurt far less then when Master Jinshi had done so.

Lady Lihua looked her over for a split second before straightening herself. “I believe that’s all for today. have a pleasant day.” And with that she took her leave. Some of her ladies sparing glares towards her as they departed.

~ * ~

Maomao sat behind Lady Gyokuyou assuming her position as food taster. From her position she could see Lihaku, seated at the end of the military officials. No doubt in a few years he would be attending as a high-ranking official. Lahan stood to the side, listening to a bureaucrat voice no doubt another complaint.

As her gaze swept over the other attendees, she caught sight of Gaoshun seated with the soldiers, much to her surprise, though he didn’t look out of place in the slightest.

She continued to look from her position seated at the front, but she couldn’t spot the sparkly eunuch anywhere. Strange, with the consorts present he should be here.

A cup was placed in front of her, a second later it was filled with tea. The other tasters sat in line with her, shoulders tense, hands trembling, one avoided looking at the cup entirely.

She was probably the only one who enjoyed tasting for poison.

She lifted the cup carefully, holding it at the base. The liquid shimmered in the sun, she tilted it, watching for any change in the silver.

Nothing.

She brought it closer, inhaling

It was clean, no bitterness, no sharpness.

She drank. The tea warmed her throat, it was safe. She lowered the cup raising her sleeve to rinse out her mouth, resting her hands back into her lap neatly.

The first course came quickly. A fish and vegetable dish Maomao knew the emperor was fond of. Maomao reached for her chopsticks before pausing. This time the dish contained… jellyfish? Maomao knew the chefs would never intentionally get the emperor’s dish wrong, though then again, the workers were turning out to be more incompetent than she first realised.

Her gaze shifted to the side, to Lady Lishu. She had already received her meal. Far too quickly. The look on her face seemed scared. Maomao spared a glance at her taster. The lady in waiting was smirking. Interesting.

Maomao finished her dish, letting the attendant know it was free from poison, before rinsing her mouth out once more.

The next course came quickly, a soup. Maomao observed it. Steam curled upwards, the silver bowl seemed normal.

She inhaled. Nothing.

Next she drank, and she felt it. The reaction was immediate. A warmth spread through her chest and limbs far too quickly. Her lungs tightened, causing a slight wheeze. Her breath caught, and her face flushed.

The numbness came soon after. Her stomach tightening and her pulse quickening. Her tongue darted out trying to savour the taste. It felt… amazing. She hadn’t felt such pleasure since before she left for the rear palace.

Her movements remained controlled, carefully she lifted a cloth to her mouth, letting the words spill out to the rest of the pavilion.

“This… is poison”

Before anyone could react she stood and turned, she walked, her pace was quick, she escaped through the curtain. She was so quick she failed to notice both the minister tasting her soup, and a familiar figure watching her leave, from the other side of the curtain.

~ * ~

Jinshi returned to the garden party, he had been seated next to them emperor, as his younger brother, his mask and robes fell perfectly over his body, hiding as much skin as possible. He was now returning as Jinshi, the manager of the rear palace, to tend to the concubines.

As he was nearing the pavilion, he began to hear voices. Strange, no one should be speaking this loud during the meal. He poked his head through just in time to see a minister to collapse, convulsing slightly, and a girl her knew rather well escaping through the same curtain, in a rather hurried pace.

“Did she…” he trailed off, following her to her destination.

As he followed he thought back to earlier that day. The apothecary had been wearing makeup, something that surprised him. But what surprised him even more was the way she so casually spoke of her past. Her life in the pleasure district, the attempted assaults she had to endure, the kidnapping. She was so small, she looked so fragile, yet she spoke of it as if it were nothing.

Jinshi knew then and there that he couldn’t continue treating the apothecary as some tool to be used. No she was so much more than that. She had a life outside of the rear palace.

He had wanted to comfort her, but he couldn’t. All he could do was gift her his hairpin, a promise of protection, and he had meant it. A life inside the rear palace was like a prison, and she had been forced into it against her will, not only that, but if what he had just witnessed was true, she had just ingested a very strong poison.

The apothecary seemed to reach her destination, a well that was nearby. As he got close she was busy rinsing her mouth out.

He called out to her, and she turned around almost immediately, a big smile spread across her face. Had he ever seen her smile like that? No he didn’t think he had. It seemed so… normal. But the apothecary was anything but normal.

“Master Jinshi! What a beautiful day!” she seemed so delighted, it almost scared him.

He narrowed her eyes, looking her up and down for the first time since he had given her his hairpin. “Yours seems better than mine.”

She seemed to freeze at that, and he took the opportunity to grab her hand, pulling her away from the well. He had touched her before of course, but never like this. Her hands were so soft, so small, and yet he could feel the calluses that had been left behind, no doubt from all of the herb grinding and other chores she did all day. It made him want to protect her even more.

“What do you think you’re doing?” she grumbled, trying to escape his grip, but he only held on tighter.

“Taking you to see a doctor.”

“There is no need to worry about me sir. I have already coughed up the poison. I am feeling fine.”

“I don’t care.”

“Master Jinshi?” She asked.

“Yes” he answered without looking.

“If you are taking me to the medical office, anyway, could I at least have the rest of the soup.”

How was this girl still alive. She was somehow so smart, and yet, when it came to her own safety she seemed to only have two braincells, and one of those braincells insisted on eating anything toxic she could get her hands on. He was starting to regret his promise to protect her, he hadn’t realised he would need to protect her from herself as well.

“Idiot” he murmured.

She looked scandalised, like he was somehow in the wrong. “I’m just eager to be a better taster.” She whined.

He sighed as he stopped walking “When you walked off without any difficulty, someone doubted the soup contained poison and decided to try it.”

Her expression turned serious “surely there’s no one that stupid.”

“A minister, now the parties become a whole mess.” And no doubt the emperor would put the investigation on him. It seemed these days he was playing every role in the court. Hopefully it wouldn’t be as much of a failure as the last investigation.

She sighed pulling out a pouch from her breast pocket, how did that fit in there. “Give him this. I made it strong enough to turn anyone’s stomach inside out.”

“Isn’t that also a poison” but he grabbed it, nonetheless, continuing to pull her towards the medical office, his hand never leaving hers.

~ * ~

Jinshi stood there, Gaoshun behind him, listening to the sounds of gagging and heaving as the apothecary threw up over and over again. Just as he thought she was done, she vomited again, he grimaced slightly. He had no clue how someone could look so happy while emptying their guts out.

“Are you feeling better?” he asked, his voice wavering slightly as if he was the one who had just been poisoned.

She stood up cheerfully “Yes. I’m all emptied out.”

“Wonderful” he murmured before continuing, “now, do you have any idea how poison ended up in Concubine Gyokuyou’s soup?”

The apothecary’s expression turned serious, her blue eyes narrowing slightly. “On that note there are parties I wish to speak with”

“Name them”

“Please invite the Virtuous Consort Lady Lishu.”

He looked at Gaoshun, giving him a slight nod, as the older man made to exit the room. But the apothecary’s voice rang through once more.

“Please also request Lady Lishu’s food taster as well.”

“Understood.” Gaoshun stated simply, leaving without another word.

~ * ~

Maomao watched as Lady Lishu entered, Master Jinshi greeting her with his usual charm. The young girl seemed fine, except for the continuous scratching on her arm.

She walked up the consort “Please excuse me.” And with that she yanked the sleeve of the consort’s dress up, revealing a group of red hives dotting her arms. The other occupants gasped.

Jinshi stood behind her. “what’s wrong with her arm?” he hesitantly asked.

She took a step backwards, to give the consort more room. “For some people,” She began slowly “there are foods they cannot eat. Like me, I can’t eat buckwheat.”

“But poison you have no problem with!”

“Leave me alone, I tried to build up a tolerance, but each time I would get hives and my throat would swell.” She replied. Jinshi looked even more uncomfortable than he had when he realised she had ingested poison.

She really had tried. Ever since one of her nursemaids had purposely fed her buckwheat as a child, hoping to take her out of the picture. Luckily her mother had noticed in time.  But it quickly made her realise that no amount of tolerance could truly keep her safe. She barely ever spoke of the allergy. It was a weakness, a weakness her enemies would no doubt exploit, so why had she told Jinshi.

Never mind. I have more important things to deal with right now.

She took a breath, before continuing. “My Lady, are you not fond of fish?”

Lishu looked at her surprised, her eye’s widening. “That’s right”

Maomao walked over to a desk, picking up a scroll she had prepared earlier. Speaking to both Lishu and her food taster. “This isn’t simply a matter of preference, ingesting such a food can cause injury, and in some cases, death. And by feeding her it willingly” Maomao’s gaze caught that of the food taster’s “is the same as feeding her poison.”

The food taster shrunk back at that, her gaze lowering to the ground. Her body seemed to shake uncontrollably. Maomao felt a sense of satisfaction. The food taster deserved far worse than a mere scolding, but Maomao decided it wasn’t her place. Besides from what she had seen, none of Lishu’s ladies were very competent at their jobs.

Instead Maomao continued, raising the hand that held the scroll. “I have prepared a list of steps in case such an event happens again. But” She looked straight into the food taster’s eyes, the woman shrinking even lower “it would be best if it never comes to that.”

The taster shakily took the scroll, before the two departed. Good Maomao thought to herself, that should scare her.

Suddenly she felt a presence behind her. Jinshi. He was right there leaning down to her ear. “Explain” was all he said.

no doubt he wanted to know how this correlated to the poisoning.

“I believe Lady Gyokuyou’s and Lady Lishu’s dishes were switched.” She replied simply.

“I don’t understand, why would someone do something like that.”

“Perhaps it was supposed to be nothing more than a harmless prank.”

Jinshi pursed his lips “You believe the taster switched the dishes herself.”

“It’s possible, though that switch might have just saved her Lady’s life.”

“So then the poison was meant for Lady Lishu.” He seemed to be starting to understand, finally.

Maomao turned to look at him once more. Her gaze sharp and piercing “If we assume none of the other dishes were poisoned.”

And with that she departed, she felt a headache coming on. She was dreading arriving back to the Jade Pavilion, the ladies would no doubt fuss over her again.

~ * ~

Jinshi sat in his office, paperwork filling most of the desk. The newest, from that day’s garden party, sitting on top. He doubted he was going to be getting any sleep for a while.

Gaoshun had already visited him, urging him to rest, and once again scolding him for being so careless. In his hurry to catch the apothecary he had forgotten about his hairpin. The one he had worn after gifting the apothecary his other one.

He thought back over the day. The girl had drunk poison, identified it, asked for seconds, and then uncovered at least half of the plot. But those blue eyes. The way she had stared at him before she left, it was like something had switched, like she was suddenly looking into his soul. It felt familiar, but for some reason he couldn’t place it. He let out a heavy sigh. His sleep deprivation must be finally catching up to him.

He continued to look over the paperwork detailing the event. The minister who had drunk the poison had survived, thankfully. Jinshi had a feeling this investigation would be an interesting one.

~ * ~

Maomao sat on her bed, looking over the hairpins she had been given. Four favours, two from women, and two from men. She had already sent to an official request to Lihaku, and she would most likely leave in a few days.

Speaking of hairpins, Maomao was curious about the one Jinshi was wearing. Not only were his robes far more formal then required, but that hairpin. She hadn’t been able to get a close enough look. She wouldn’t speak of it just yet, too much conjecture, but she would continue to keep an eye on him. He was far more important than he let on.

On the other hand, the poisoning intrigued Maomao. It was all but confirmed that that figure she had seen earlier with the vial was behind it. But again, she hadn’t had the best vantage point. She had told Jinshi as much as she could without involving herself. She would investigate herself, and if anything interesting was discovered, she would pass it along.

Maomao sighed, laying down. The other ladies had insisted she have the next day off, and had practically forced her into a room far too luxurious for Maomao the apothecary.

Tomorrow would no doubt be interesting.  

Chapter Text

Lihaku stood outside the rear palace gates. He had given the instructions the guards, they had looked at him strangely but had done what he had asked, nonetheless.

He was still confused, he had known Lady Kan for years, ever since her father had first recruited him. She had always been pleasant, and he was sure he knew more about her than most, including her name, though he had been ordered to never so much as utter it aloud. What confused him though was what she was doing in the rear palace, as a lady in waiting no less. Surely the role of consort would be more suitable for her.

Was this some sort of assignment, an undercover mission of sorts. Lihaku knew Lakan had contacts all over, but he doubted even the master strategist was that close to other concubines.

But there she had been at the garden party. Without either her veil or her freckles, a state he had rarely seen her in before, she had asked for his hairpin, an object he had known her to throw away on occasions. And then she had asked him to escort her out of the rear palace.

Lihaku knew of his Lady’s tendencies. She was observant, strategic, and mysterious. Was this just another way to cause trouble, or did she truly just want to see her family. Speaking of, which family was that: her birth family, or her Verdigris family. He shook his head, never mind worrying now, he would soon find out.

The gates started to open, colourful robes, bustling servants and a girl wearing a green and blue outfit could be seen. The girl stepped forward, bowing with the practiced ease of a noble lady. “Master Lihaku”

He remembered what she had said at the garden party, not to use her title. He had known her name, but refused to use it, her nickname came easily.

“Little miss” he didn’t bow. Not yet. “Are you ready to go?”

She straightened, her eyes locking onto him for the first time. He never truly got used to her stares, no matter how much she tried to play the commoner, or the servant, she always had that analytical gaze, the one that at first had frightened him but now he found rather normal.

“Yes, thank you again” she said simply

“No worries at all” though it had been a worry, it had been a difficult secret to keep from Master Lakan, someone who could decipher any lie.

They began to walk “Sooo,” he drawled “Where are we heading first?”

“The pleasure district, I would like to visit my uncle and the others.” She said, her eyes stayed trained ahead, but he could see the slight twitch as she took in her surroundings, no doubt cataloguing everything for later.

His head turned towards her “You wouldn’t like to visit the estate first?” he questioned.

“No” was all she said

He shook his head, he had long ago learnt not to question his Lady’s motives, she always had a reason for what she did, even if he wasn’t aware of it.

The ride to the pleasure district was short, but not without its own list of problems. He had taken a similar route dozens of times. It had started years ago, when he had been newer to Lakan’s group of allies.

~ * ~

It was a moonless night, any light covered by the thick layer of clouds that hung in the sky. The breeze was cold, colder than usual. Lihaku stood at his post, as rigid as ever, as he watched Lakan and other high-ranking military officers hold their meeting.

“This is an… unconventional strategy sir, even for you.” One of the officers with far more courage than Lihaku had, spoke.

Lakan’s lips turned upwards into a terrifying grin. “No strategy is unconventional when it comes to war.” He spoke plainly.

The door to the meeting room swung open, a young solider stood in the doorway, panting.

An older man turned to him irritated “what is the meaning of this interruption, boy?”

Lakan stayed as calm as ever.

“Master Lakan, we have discovered a threat. A group of men allied with the Empress Reg- I mean dowager, they are planning an attempt on your life, tonight. What should we do?”

Lakan placed a hand on his chin, thinking. Lihaku didn’t know how he could remain so calm after being so obviously threatened.

Lakan turned to his most trusted subordinate “return to the estate, take as many men with you as you can, prepare for an attack.”

Then he pointed at Lihaku, “you. Knight. Go with them, when you reach the estate you will find my daughter, take her to this address.” He placed piece of paper in Lihaku’s hand, “protect her with your life, do you understand?”  

“Yes sir”

And with that he was off. Pulled away quickly by the other soldiers. They all seemed so calm as they moved with practised ease towards the estate. Lihaku knew his master had enemies, but surely these assassination attempts weren’t this common.

They reached the estate quickly, Lihaku and the others entering through a back entrance he wasn’t aware existed, there they were greeted by Lady Fengxian, why she was still awake he didn’t know.

She spoke to the soldiers with a calm Lihaku didn’t know existed, before moving towards him as he was pointed out.

Her words were strategic, straight to the point. “You were sent to take our daughter to safety?”

He bowed “Yes my lady, Master Lakan sent me himself.”

“Very well” she looked over to a serving girl, giving a slight nod before the servant ran off only returning with a small girl next to her. Small was an understatement, this was Master Lakan’s daughter? She couldn’t have been older than eight or nine, Lihaku himself was only eighteen.

The small girl rubbed her eyes, she had obviously just been asleep, her eyes still adjusting to the bright light from the lanterns.

Fengxian kneeled down, speaking softly into the girl’s ear before the girl gave her mother a tight hug and walked over to Lihaku.

Fengxian straightened “protect her well” was all she said, before she walked back over the other soldiers assisting them with preparations.

He took the girl’s hand. It felt so small in his much larger one. The girl didn’t scream, didn’t cry, just followed him wordlessly, somehow keeping up with his faster pace.

They exited through the same passageway he had entered through, the girl not even flinching, it seemed this tunnel wasn’t a secret to her. A carriage was waiting outside, driven by a soldier Lihaku recognised from his patrols.

He opened the door, picking the girl up by the waist, she was so light, almost weightless from the adrenaline coursing through his veins. He placed her inside, before handing the note with the address to the driver. He jumped into the carriage himself, shutting the door as it began to move off into the night.

For the first time since the attack became known, he allowed himself to breath. Panting slightly as he caught his breath, he looked down at the girl, she looked back up at him with narrowed eyes, almost as if she was analysing him.

No, of course she wasn’t. She was just a child after all.

Lihaku felt bad for the girl, no doubt being woken up to such chaos would traumatise a child. He should comfort her, perhaps start with finding out her name.

“Hi there, my name’s Lihaku. What’s yours little miss?”

The girl stared at him before uttering a rather small “Lady Kan”

He stared back at her almost confused. Did she not understand his question, surely she didn’t believe that was truly her name, it was merely a title. Before he could say anything more, Lady Kan turned to a box in the corner, opening it up she took out a piece of fabric. No. not just fabric, a veil. Wordlessly she tied it around her face, covering the lower portion.

Was this… normal. She hadn’t reacted the way Lihaku thought she would, she hadn’t even shed a tear. Had the assassination attempts become so common she was used to this?

The trip to the address was quick, the driver knocking on the door to let Lihaku know it was safe. Cautiously he stepped outside. He heard the loud music, saw the colourful dresses. Was that a… brothel. The Verdigris House. Surely the note was wrong. Lihaku was sure Master Lakan would never intentionally send his daughter to a brothel.

A man, around Lihaku’s height, suddenly walked outside the establishment, taking a good look at them “are you fellows alright?” he asked eyeing them up and down.

Lihaku didn’t know what to do. Surely this wasn’t the right place, and he sure as hell didn’t want to show Lady Kan to a stranger after all the trust her family had put in him.

The man suddenly looked inside the carriage, Lady Kan was lying asleep on the bench, she twitched, probably a nightmare. The man’s eyes widened “Maomao” he spoke under his breath.

So that was her name.

The man looked back to Lihaku. “My name is Ukyou, I’m one of the manservants here, please bring her and follow me.”

Lihaku stood his ground, he had yet to receive confirmation that this Maomao and Lady Kan were indeed the same person.

“Hold it, how do I know you’re not the enemy” he tried to insert as much authority into his tone as he could. He was pretty sure he failed miserably.

The older man sighed, a hand coming up to rub his face “You were sent by Master Lakan were you not. He always sends his daughter here during threats. Let me guess another assassination attempt.”

Lihaku was still sceptical. No doubt if he failed he would lose his head, but he didn’t know what else to do. Walking over to the carriage he picked up the sleeping girl in his arms, following the older man further into the brothel.

~ * ~

The sound of the carriage stopping brought him out of his thoughts. Ever since that day he had been tasked with Lady Kan’s protection, he had witnessed her grow up and he felt like a proud older brother whenever he heard of her accomplishments.

He just wished she didn’t have to be careful, enemies were constantly surrounding her, and she had learnt to keep to herself, never fully trusting anyone, even him.

Still he was excited about this little vacation. Not only did he get to see Ukyou again, a man who he looked up to like a mentor, but he was also going to get to meet with Pairin.

He had of course, seen her multiple times. He would arrive with Lady Kan, Pairin would come out, hugging the small girl against her frame, but they never spoke, unfortunately.

Pairin seemed to care a lot for the girl, and Lihaku thought it was about time they finally got to know each other. He had wanted to do so multiple times, but he lacked the silver, and she was usually booked out.

He would never be able to thank his Lady enough, surely this was far more than he deserved as a mere soldier. But he wouldn’t waste it. He would savour every last moment he got with the princess.

The carriage doors opened, and Lady Kan stepped out in her servant garbs, Lihaku followed after her. they were greeted by the madam of the Verdigris House, or in Lady Kan’s words: the nosy old granny.

“Maomao!” She yelled “What took you so long. I was beginning to believe you really had died to those poison experiments you insist on doing.”

Maomao rolled her eyes “Nice to see you too, Grams. I was under the impression you knew. I entered the rear palace a few months ago.”

The madam’s eyes widened, she knocked Maomao on the head, Lihaku stifled a laugh. “The rear palace! So what, you deny becoming a courtesan yet your happy to serve the emperor, you little brat!”

Maomao rubbed her head “Relax. I’m not a consort, just a maid.”

“Really! Why on earth would you do that.” She narrowed her eyes “Did your father put you up to this?”

“Can we go inside first? I promise to tell you everything.”

Granny relented leading them further into the brothel. She looked at an apprentice “You! Bring some snacks to the receiving room.”

The girl scurried off, leaving the madam, Lady Kan, and Lihaku to make their own way over to the room. It was a room regularly reserved for meetings. More practical than the usual rooms.

Maomao walked in first slumping onto a couch, she always acted more normal in the Verdigris House, one of the few places she felt a modicum of safety.

“how’s uncle?” She asked as she adjusted her posture to look more presentable.

“He’s fine. He’s actually in the apothecary shop, if you want to see him later.”

Maomao nodded “I’d like that.”

Just then the door burst open, in ran the Pairin, followed by Meimei, and then Joka, lastly the servant girl entered placing the tray down before leaving wordlessly.

“Maomao!” Pairin yelled, her eyes lighting up. She landed on the couch, pulling Maomao into a tight side hug. “It’s good to see you”

“Good to see you too big sis, now could you please let me go.” The poor girl looked like she was about to be smothered to death.

The older woman let go of her uttering a quick apology.

Meimei stepped forward “Maomao! Where have you been, we’ve all been so worried.”

“I hope you weren’t getting into too much trouble” asked Joka.

Maomao looked at the three of them, before looking down at her lap “no nothing like that. I’ve simply been on a break from my usual duties, in the rear palace”  she hesitated slightly.

As he watched the three princesses suddenly explode, he was glad he wasn’t Lady Kan. She tried her best to ease their concerns, jumping straight into the story of how such a thing happened in the first place.

After the three had eventually calmed down, Maomao took a breath, turning back to Lihaku. “Pairin I wanted to introduce you to my bodyguard, Lihaku. He’s been here before; you might recognise him.”

Pairin licked her lips “how could I forget such a handsome face.” his face only flushed.

Maomao didn’t seem impressed. “Yes well, he’s got you booked out for the next few days. All paid for of course. Have fun!” she added that last part quickly before practically bounding out of the room, as if she knew something Lihaku didn’t. As the other princesses and the madam left the room too, and Pairin pulled him upstairs, he was starting to see exactly what he was in for.

~ * ~

Maomao made her way through the halls of the Verdigris House, passing many courtesans. The older ones waved at her, the newer ones looked at her with confusion, and some looked at her with anger and envy. She couldn’t exactly blame them. She called the Verdigris home just like they did, she had received the same education that they did, and yet she was somehow still free. Able to leave as she pleased, something the others could never do.

Maomao stopped in front of a door, knocking lightly before opening it. There stood Luomen, her uncle, he was grinding some sort of herb with his mortar and pestle. He looked up at the intrusion, his eyes softening when they landed on her. “Ah Maomao, what a pleasant surprise, please come in dear.”

Maomao walked further into the room, closing the door behind her. “Hey uncle, it’s been a while, hasn’t it.”

“It has. I must say, I was quite surprised when Lakan told me of your little adventure in the rear palace.”

Maomao heaved a loud sigh, leaning against a counter. Her uncle was perhaps the only person she could feel completely at ease with. He had practically raised her, and had taught her much of what she knew.

The only thing she didn’t like was how kind he was. In the pleasure district, you had to be ruthless to survive, yet he still insisted on handing out free medicine. Maomao found herself wondering how he had been while she was gone.

“Yes, well, father doesn’t know the exact truth.” Maomao grimaced as soon as the words left her mouth.

Luoman stopped grinding “Maomao…” urging her to continue.

She took a small breath. “I originally entered the rear palace as a maid, but it didn’t stay that way.” She said almost mildly. “A few months ago I discovered the reason for the royal heirs dying.”

Luomen’s gaze sharpened, no doubt he had had his own suspicions.

She continued “as a reward I was promoted to the precious consort’s lady in waiting and food taster.”

“Food taster you say…” he trailed off.

“Yes” Maomao nodded “neither father nor mother know. Lahan does, but only because he was present at the garden party where I uncovered poison in one of the dishes.” Luomen looked uneasy

“I have sworn him to secrecy” she added.

“He will eventually find out Maomao, though I’m sure you are already aware of that.”

“Of course I know that uncle. I also know that as soon as he finds out he will find a way to pull me away from the rear palace all together.” She pressed her lips into a thin line. She didn’t want to admit it, but the rear palace had been growing on her.

Though she knew her uncle already knew that. He knew everything, even if he refused to speak it aloud. Instead he decided to change the subject.

“Have you been keeping up with studies?”

Maomao nodded as she grabbed another mortar and pestle. If she was here she could at least be useful. “As much as I can be around my other duties. I’ve been able to continue making medicine, I’ve even gained access to the medical office’s resources.” Maomao looked off dreamily, reminiscing about all the medicine and drugs she had made recently.

Luomen’s brow furrowed “They allow you to make medicine?”

“Yes. I was surprised as well, but the manager of the rear palace, upon figuring out I was an apothecary, asked me to assist him on several cases.”  Maomao was suspicious as well. She had been keeping an eye on the sparkly eunuch, but he seemed to only be interested in her skills, seeing her as more of a tool than a person. Maomao could respect that. It was how her father saw others and no doubt herself after all.  

Luomen continued his grinding. Maomao had never been good at casual conversation. She would always get straight to the point, and if there wasn’t one she wouldn’t speak.

They fell into a pleasant silence, Maomao appreciated the quietness. After loud, long days at the rear palace, it was a nice change.

She looked out the window; it was past midday. She knew the apprentices and manservants would soon begin moving around, completing their duties as they prepared for the night ahead. She doubted she would see Pairin and Lihaku for the rest of her stay, but maybe she could catch up with Meimei and Joka a bit more over the next three days.

~ * ~

Jinshi finished his work quickly. He had made time to see the high consorts, specifically, Lady Gyokuyou. He arrived at the pavilion quickly followed by Gaoshun. They were greeted by Hongniang who them led to the consort. He followed in anticipation. He was excited to see the apothecary, who he hadn’t seen since the garden party. He wondered if she had any more ideas about the recent poisoning attempt, perhaps he could find an excuse to pull her away from work again.

He bowed as he entered the room “Lady Gyokuyou”

She smiled “Master Jinshi”

“I hope there haven’t been many issues over the last few days, I apologise that I have been absent, I have had more work than usual.”

The consort laughed “Oh I’m sure. There hasn’t been any issues as of late, though I am glad you’ve been investigating the poisoning case. It was very troubling at the time.” She placed a hand on her cheek, concerned.

Jinshi sighed “Yes I’m doing everything I can to find the culprit.”

“I’m glad to hear it. Though ever since the garden party, everyone has been rather interested in my new lady in waiting.”

Jinshi’s eyes widened, an opportunity. He looked around the room “where is that girl anyway. I hope she hasn’t disappeared to collect mushrooms again”

The consort laughed at the accusation waving a hand “No nothing of the sort.” Her expression suddenly changed, sadder. “Though I’m afraid Maomao has taken off with another man.”

Jinshi’s jaw dropped so far it was practically on the ground. He was speechless, the apothecary had… left. Why was she with another man, was he a eunuch? Or worse a man she had met at the garden party. He hadn’t seen much, though he hadn’t been there for long either, leaving so he could remove his mask as he prepared to enter as Jinshi the eunuch.

Lady Gyokyou only continued to laugh at his face, wiping tears from her eyes, was she mocking him?

“Relax! It’s only a four-day homecoming”

What?!

Chapter Text

Daddy met with a strange man today. He seemed important. His serious eyes roamed over me, maybe he thinks I am strange too. It wouldn’t be the first time. They didn’t want me in the room. They forced me to leave. Why? Were they talking about me?

~ * ~

The little girl lay asleep in her bed, it was dark outside, only hours earlier she had wanted to stay up, to play with her toys. Her nurse maid had taken them away, and forced her to go to sleep.

Now the door swung open, that same nurse maid running in, out of breath. The loud noise woke the small girl up. Before she could even cry a hand was placed over her mouth, almost suffocating her.

She looked up with her wide blue eyes, both worried and confused, why was her nurse maid hurting her, the woman was supposed to keep her safe.

The woman made a shushing noise before taking the hand away. She walked over to a draw, pulling out a small veil. It was rather plain, in the girl’s opinion, she preferred the more colourful ones, but she knew better than to voice her thoughts especially when she had just been told to be quiet.

The nurse maid wrapped the thin piece of fabric around her face, her eyes looked so sad. She stroked the girl’s hair.

“My Lady, it is time to go.”

The girl looked up at her confused. Only hours ago the maid had been trying to get into bed, now she wanted her to get out.

“Go where?”

The woman continued to stroke her hair. Where was her mother, her father, why weren’t they here.

“Everything is ok, you’re just going on a little trip.”

Her confused look continued “Me?”

“Yes, my lady.”

The woman picked her up, she struggled immediately, panic coursing through her, her small hands desperately pushed on the woman’s shoulders. She didn’t want to go, why did she have to go.

“No… no..” she tried to say, but it only came out as a trembled whisper.

A blanket suddenly wrapped around her, it was tight. Too tight. She couldn’t breathe. Panic surged through her, she clawed desperately, trying to escape. But the blanket only pressed tighter. To her arms, her legs, her face. She couldn’t move.

Her breathing hitched violently, sobs escaped her. The veil, the blanket, the darkness, it was all too much.

Her whole body trembled, every breath feeling wrong.

Around her voices shouted, they were loud, too loud. They sounded distorted through the blanket. Like the walls themselves were screaming.

Then suddenly, she heard it. Her mothers voice. But it sounded… wrong. Not gentle, not kind. But firm, commanding, and sharp.

The girl froze. Her struggling weakened as complete and utter fear overtook her. her breaths came quicker; her head began to spin. She tried calling out, but all she could muster was a whimper. The darkness swallowed everything, even her mothers voice started to fade.

Cold air hit her suddenly, a sudden realisation hit her, her eyes widening even more. They were sending her away. They didn’t want her. That had to be it. Why else would they send her into the dark.

Then she was dropped, the air knocked out of her as she landed on the hard wooden surface. For a moment, there was nothing. No sound, no struggle. Then it came back all at once. She gasped violently, tearing the blanket off her face.

She sucked in air. Air she hadn’t been able to breath before. Her body refused to stay calm, shaking violently. Her heart pounded so hard it hurt; her vision began to flicker.

Then she saw it. Nothing. The darkness enveloped her. it was endless, suffocating, alive.

It stretched in every direction, never ending. The more she looked, the more it moved, forming shapes it shouldn’t have been able to.

Something was moving, she could feel it. Her skin became itchy, hot. The darkness only making it worse.

Her breathing hitched, her vision zeroing in on the floor. She pulled the blanket over her again, curling into the smallest shape she could muster.

Maybe if she couldn’t see them. They couldn’t see her.

Her chest hurt, her throat hurt, everything hurt.

A loud bang sounded above her. she flinched violently; a strangled noise escaped her.

Something cold touched her head. Then another. She didn’t notice, because the shadows were getting closer. The darkness folding in on her. her breaths came in short gasps, a jolt. And then…

~ * ~

Maomao awoke violently. Her heavy breathing echoing through the small shack she knew all too well. her eyes darted around the room frantically, trying to find anything that could bring her a semblance of calm. Her eyes landed on her uncle; he was stirring a pot. Breakfast. Her breathing slow, and a hand came to rest on her still pounding head.

Another nightmare. Of course.

She should have expected as such. They always happened, like clockwork, when she returned to the pleasure district.

She sighed, stretching out her sore muscles. She knew it was pointless, that the nightmare was exaggerated by her childish fears, yet her body continued to react. Her body shook, her chest tightened, and tears welled up in her eyes.

She rarely ever cried, normally.

She stood up, the early morning rays had begun to shine through the worn-down window. Her body slumped in relief. Ever since that night she had been annoyingly afraid of the dark. She knew it was pathetic. There were no monsters, nothing was watching her.

And yet…

It still felt like she was trapped in her four-year-old body. Each and every night.

Thank God her family didn’t know. They would no doubt look down on her like some sort of weakness. She couldn’t have that.

She made her way over to her uncle, grabbing a pair of bowls, the least she could do well she was here was serve.

She placed both the bowls on the worn-down table, while her uncle placed down the spoons. The porridge was soothing on her sore throat.

They ate in relative silence. Her uncle had long ago stopped asking about the nightmares, and for that it was grateful. She knew her uncle was only trying to comfort her, but she couldn’t help feeling ridiculed whenever he looked at her with those sad eyes, no doubt wanting to send her away too, only pity preventing him.

Her uncle looked at her, smiling slightly. “What are your plans for today Maomao?”

She swirled her spoon through the porridge, long since giving up on eating.

“I was going to head over to the apothecary shop, make some more medicine for them.”

She continued looking down at her bowl “Then if Meimei and Joka are awake, I was thinking of catching up with them, properly.”

She looked up at her uncle, forcing a smile onto her face. “No doubt Pairin will be going for round twenty-two”

Her uncle huffed a laugh, shaking his head “If you’re heading down to the apothecary, could you take some of the medicine I made yesterday. It’s for one of the courtesans, the Madam requested it.”

Maomao smiled, standing up to clean the bowls “Sure uncle.”

~ * ~

Maomao walked through the dusty streets, her eyes wondered over the many farm plots surrounding the little shack, no doubt her uncle would spend his day harvesting what was there.

She thought back to the nightmare this morning. The small shack had helped her gain a bearing on her surroundings, helping her to calm down.

Though perhaps tonight she could try something new. She was always welcome to stay with her uncle, but she also had another room, at the Verdigris House. One that was always reserved for her. It was where she had stayed at the beginning. The brothel deemed safer than a run-down shack.

The noise from the expected nighttime activities would no doubt keep her awake. Though perhaps that was a good thing. You couldn’t experience nightmares if you didn’t fall asleep, right?

She made her way into the Verdigris House, passing by patrons who were only just leaving, and apprentices who were gathering breakfast for themselves and the courtesans. Walking past she made her way into the apothecary shop. A small room tucked into the side. For the amount of rent the old lady charged, it could have been slightly bigger.

She placed the medicine her uncle had made on the counter, grabbing a mortar and pestle so she could begin making a new salve she had wanted to try for some time.

For the first time that day her thoughts began to slow. Making medicine had always been her escape. Surprising, considering it was so thoroughly tied to her nightmarish experiences. Still her muscles relaxed as her hands moved on their own.

The door opened suddenly, Maomao looked up, perhaps a customer? But no, there in the doorway stood the old madam, she wasn’t scowling yet, she must be happier than usual.

“Maomao! Did you bring the medicine Luomen made?”

Maomao rolled her eyes “Yes Grams, it’s right here, on the counter.”

“No need for the backchat girl!” she grabbed the medicine off the counter. “Perhaps it’s about time to make use of all that education I kindly gifted you huh… I didn’t give it to you for free after all.”

Maomao groaned. You would think with her father in the picture the old granny would stop trying to make her a courtesan, apparently her debts were just too high.

“Well if there’s nothing else, maybe I should head back. I’m sure my uncle could use my help…” she started to stand up but the old lady stopped her with a raise of her hand.

“Not so fast girl. If you’re here you might as well be useful.” She threw a piece of paper and a pouch of coins in Maomao’s direction. “That should be enough, and don’t even think about coming back unless you have everything on that list.”

Maomao sighed, heaving herself off the ground to place the mortar and pestle back where it belonged. There was no point in arguing with the old granny, all it would cost her is more debt added to her tab.

As she made her way over to the entrance she saw a familiar face, one that smiled when they saw her too.

“Hey kiddo, I heard you got in yesterday, how have ya been?”

Her face relaxed at the older man’s greeting “Hey Ukyou. I’ve been well, I slept over at the shack last night, so I slept better without all the noise.”

Ukyou chuckled before giving her a hard pat on the back. “I’m sure. What are you doing with those coins? The madam making you do her shopping again?”

“That shouldn’t be a surprise should it. I always end up doing some sort of shopping while I’m here. I’d hoped it would have come off my debt, but apparently not.” Her shoulders slumped on their own. She was going to be in debt forever.

“Yeah I get it. Where’s Lihaku? Isn’t he usually the one escorting you here?”

She nodded “I finally introduced him to Pairin, figured it was the least I could do after all the years he’s been helping me.”

The man smirked, no doubt picturing what the courtesan had done when she finally got her claws on him.

“If you want, I can have a manservant accompany you on your trip, I know you can handle yourself, but just in case.”

She waved him off “It’s fine. There isn’t much on the list, I should be back by noon.”

“And if you’re not”

Maomao thought for a moment “then you can come and look for me.”

The older man nodded, stepping out of the doorway to let her past “see you later kiddo” he waved, walking back inside to continue whatever duties he had that day.

She walked through the winding streets, making her way over to the market. She reached into her sleeve, pulling out a sharp object. She had left all of her hairpins at the Jade Pavilion save for one. Jinshi’s. She couldn’t keep it. Owning the eunuch’s hairpin would only bring more trouble. She had brought it with her to sell, knowing she could get a fair price on it. Perhaps she could use the profit to buy a new herb. The thought made her smile, and she placed the hairpin back in her sleeve. Even just holding it out in the open could attract muggers, so she would keep it safe until she got a chance to sell it.

She walked through the busy streets, taking note of people surrounding her. she had learnt early in her life to always be aware, and she enjoyed people watching. A win, win.

She looked down at the list. Incense. That was the first thing. Maomao had learnt early on that the Madam was a penny pincher. She wanted the expensive stuff but not the expensive price. Maomao sighed, with how the heavy the pouch of coins felt, she would be doing a lot of negotiating today.

She walked over to the stall, picking out the usual scents the madam used in the entry to the Verdigris House. Her eyes scanned over the remaining scents, pausing on one. Sandalwood. Her eyes narrowed, why did that feel familiar. She didn’t wear it. None of her family wore it. Maybe it was one of the consorts? She shook her head scolding herself, why was she worrying over such a trivial thing.

Maomao waited as the store owner wrapped up the incense. Her eyes wandered over the list, looking for the next item when she heard the customer over at the next store.

“And how much for a night with you sweetheart?” The man leered.

The saleswoman glared at him “I’m not a courtesan, now either buy something or get out of my store.”

Good Maomao thought. To survive as a store owner in the pleasure district was already difficult, never mind as a woman. As Maomao paid for the incense, she heard the commotion, the man had grabbed the woman’s arm.

Now Maomao didn’t usually involve herself in such attention seeking activities, but there were plenty of courtesan’s who the guy could pay for. And frankly, Maomao was well aware of what it felt like for a man to grab your arm.

Maomao stalked over to the man, who looked up at her approach. “She told you to get out of her store, now get out.”

The man let go of the woman’s arm, quick enough to almost send her to the ground. His eyes roamed over her body. “I don’t usually go for the skinny types.” He said almost casually “Though I suppose you would be cheaper. How much.” Maomao smiled, he couldn’t afford her.

She reached into her sleeve pulling out a small vial filled with a clear liquid, something she always kept for emergencies. She reached for his side, finding the pressure point and pinching it. The man doubled over in pain. It was a neat trick, one Meimei had taught her. she used to use it on Lahan before her mother put a stop to it.

With the man now on his knees, she look down at him, uncorking the bottle. “She told you to stop.” Maomao spoke calmly “if you don’t leave…”

She tipped the bottle, a small drop landed on the man’s arm, instantly burning the skin, leaving a large red welt. He yelped in pain from his spot on the ground. Her eyes narrowed as she glared at the man “Imagine how it will feel when I pour it down your throat.”

The man’s eyes widened, but Maomao only smiled. She withdrew slightly, and the man practically tripped as he made his escape.

Maomao laughed to herself, turning back to the woman who was now looking at her. no one else had seemed to hear the commotion “Thank you” she spoke quietly. Maomao waved her off, she should be thanking the woman who had given her a reason to insult such an ignorant man.

Maomao placed the bottle in front of the woman “Here. I’m sure you could use this more than me.” The woman looked down at the bottle, unsure for a moment. “I have plenty” Maomao added, almost as an afterthought.

The woman picked the bottle up, placing it to the side. “Thanks… can I offer you something. Free of charge, for your… services”

Maomao looked down at her list, finding the item she was supposed to buy from this store. The old madam owed her for this one.

~ * ~

The hours had gone by rather fast judging by the sun. Maomao was almost finished, only a few items remaining on the list.

Everything had felt normal, even when dealing with that man. Now though, there was a feeling Maomao knew far too well. Someone was watching her. she continued her pace, not wanting to tip them off, turning a corner she came face to face with an… alley? Since when had that be there? Granted it had been a while since Maomao had been to the pleasure district, but she was sure she wouldn’t forget her way around that easily. She continued, discreetly pulling out the hairpin she had yet to sell. She would have to thank Joka for her lessons in self-defence, when she got out of this of course. Maomao felt their presence get closer. Her heartrate sped up, her breathing coming quicker. Still she kept moving. She gripped the hairpin so tight her knuckles began turning white.

The alley way seemed to only grow, the voices drowning out as she moved. Her pace quickened slightly, just as two strong hands grabbed her from behind.

She spun as fast as she could, stabbing the hairpin into the man’s leg. He screamed in pain, dropping her. She struck again, this time across his face, drawing an angry red line across. The man collapsed clutching his face. Maomao looked down, breathing heavily, the hairpin was dripping with the man’s blood. All she could do was glare.

Suddenly she heard running. She turned around just in time to see another man charging at her. Her body wanted to give up, she heaved herself up, dodging so the newcomer fell onto the other assailant. She gripped the hairpin tight, jabbing it into his back, blood poured out of the wound at the impact some spraying her face.

Her mind started to race; she should have taken Ukyou up on his offer. Her body shook, and her breathing came in heavy deep gasps, her lungs refusing to take in the air. She dropped the hairpin as her grip slackened.

Suddenly, two hands grabbed her from behind. The felt stronger, more confident, unlike the other two. They pushed her to her knees, and just as she was about to turn her head, she felt an impact.

Her world went dark.

~ * ~

Maomao woke up.

Her body sore from the earlier fighting, she brought a hand up to the back of her head, wincing as she rubbed it. It must have been a hard hit to knock her out so quickly. She wondered if she had a concussion.

She stood up, looking around the small room. It was rather small, about the size of a low serving girls’ quarters. The only furniture in sight was a small bed, no doubt uncomfortable. There was a window that let in a small amount of light, and a heavy-duty door Maomao knew she would never be able to get through.

She paced around the room, her head still throbbing. Who were those three men, she hadn’t recognised any of them, even if she was a bit preoccupied with surviving.

She wondered if those men knew who she was. Had her enemies finally figured out she couldn’t be killed with poisons, and instead turned to kidnapping? Would she be used as a bargaining chip, or would they kill her as soon as they realised she was awake.

And what if they didn’t know her identity. Were these men like that group of thugs who had attempted to kidnap her at the beginning of the year, only to be stopped by Lihaku. Would they sell her off to a brothel? That would be the best result, Maomao had to admit. After all, she had all of the knowledge to help her survive in such an establishment.

Either way she was trapped. A small room, with barely any light. She felt around her robes. The hairpin was gone, she remembered she had dropped it from exhaustion only a second before she was knocked out. But the rest of her supplies were gone too. She felt sick knowing someone had felt along her chest and arms in order to confiscate those belongings.

The sound of the heavy door opening caused her to turn around. A man around her age walked in. His eyes looking anywhere but at her. He placed a tray of food down before he exited, shutting the door behind him.

Strange. He hadn’t even acknowledged that she was awake. Normally kidnappers had bad intentions, but he seemed almost nervous. Perhaps he didn’t agree with the decision to kidnap her.

She needed to come up with a plan and soon. She couldn’t rely on her father’s resources this time. He didn’t even know she was here. She had two days before her disappearance would get suspicious. If that happened, she would be seen as abandoning her post, and Lihaku would no doubt be punished. She couldn’t have that.

She wondered what Jinshi would think at her disappearance. Would he be sad? She was sure he would be annoyed to lose one of his tools, but that was far different than being sad. On that note how was Xiaolan? She had said goodbye before she left and requested that she continued sending letters to her family. Would she find out? Maomao hoped not, she didn’t want to imagine how anxious the girl would be.

~ * ~

The day went quickly, and soon it was next morning. Maomao’s time was quickly running out. She was sure Ukyou was out searching for her, perhaps Lihaku too. She doubted they would find her in time. Hell, they would have an easier time if she were sold to a brothel.

She had only seen the one man so far. He had brought all of her meals. She had been slightly disappointed when she discovered they weren’t laced with poison. Though she was also getting sick of the silent treatment. She would never get out at this rate.

The familiar sound of the door unlocking brought her out of her musings. The man was back, with breakfast. Again he seemed to ignore her, only looking at the ground. Perhaps she should take matters into her own hands.

As the man turned around to leave she called out.

“Hey!” the man stopped in his place, his back to her.

She continued, starting small “Where are the men who brought me here”

The man remained where he was “They were outside hires. They’ve been let go.”

I see, so who ever wanted me didn’t have the manpower to do it himself.

“And who are you?” she asked.

At that the man turned around, looking at her incredulously “you really don’t know do you.”

She looked at him, bored. Of course she didn’t.

“Know what?”

“I’m Lahan’s brother, my name is…”

“You’re Lahan’s brother? So that would make you my cousin.”

“Yes like I was saying my name is…”

Maomao interrupted him again “Why has my own family ordered my kidnapping.”

Lahan’s brother looked at the ground before sighing. “It wasn’t my choice, neither was it my fathers. My- I mean our grandfather, he is still upset at your father for usurping him. He wants the family headship back.”

Maomao had never met the man that was her grandfather. She hadn’t even met her uncle or cousin; how did they know who she was?

“Do they expect to use me as bait? In case you haven’t noticed, my father has far more manpower than you, as well as the favour of the emperor. Your plan won’t work.”

Lahan’s brother shook his head “That isn’t the plan. Lakan is the head because he holds the heirloom. Grandfather only wants to know the location so he can steal it back.”

So that was his plan. Maomao narrowed her eyes.

“And I suppose he expects me to give up this location.”

Lahan’s brother turned around pacing the room “Yes, he plans to question you tonight.”

“How did you figure out who I was? No one apart from my trusted staff know of both my identities.”

“A servant there told us. She said she used to be your nursemaid.”

Maomao cursed herself. That woman had been serving her family for years. After Maomao had started to take care of herself, the woman was no longer needed, yet Maomao had requested to keep her on as a servant. She had felt bad for the woman. She would have to deal with her when she returned from her trip.

Lahan’s brother continued “We only knew what you looked like. We don’t even know your name. The woman said that would be too obvious.”

Only because it could easily tie back to her Maomao thought to herself.

“It won’t matter. I have no interest in the heirloom. Neither does my father. It’s Lahan who looks after it. You should have kidnapped him.” Maomao said pointedly.

“That’s harder than it looks. It was difficult to even get you. All we knew was that you sometimes frequented the Verdigris House.”

So father was right. The Verdigris House was compromised. Did he know it was his own family who had discovered it, or that the servant was the one who had told them.

Maomao shook her head, expelling the thoughts. She had more important matters at the moment. She walked over to the window. Looking out it for a moment. “You need to help me escape.”

Lahan’s brother widened his eyes. “Are you insane? I’ve already been disowned by your father, now you want me to be disowned by our grandfather too?”

“Would it matter if you were dead.” There was only silence.

“My father doesn’t take kindly to threats. And after all, he’s already taken you out of the picture once, he will do it again. whether your family or not.” Her lips turned up as she said it. She had only just met this man, cousin or not. She did not care if he lived or died, but if he could be useful to her…

She had very easily slipped back into Lady Kan.

“Even if I wanted to help you, I couldn’t. There isn’t any way to get you back to the Verdigris House without grandfather noticing.”

Maomao clicked her tongue. “Then you will need to figure it out. I am not staying here.” She paused “If you help me, Perhaps I will speak to my father on your behalf.”

She could see the gears turning in his head. What she would speak to her father about was none of his business.

“I’m sorry. I can’t.” and with that he walked out locking the door behind him.

Strange Maomao thought. Not many people would deny such an obvious threat. Usually people either feared or wanted her enough that they’d do anything. She could only count on one hand those who she could not persuade, and it was only one person.

Her mother.  

No worries, she would just need to escape on her own. Hopefully once her concussion went away, and she could think straight.

Chapter Text

It was already evening when the man returned. Lahan’s brother.

Maomao had spent most of the afternoon thinking about him. He did fascinate her after all.

Everyone had a weakness. Every person possessed some small flaw that could be prodded, nudged, or exploited. Pride, greed, fear, affection. There was always something.

She had yet to find his. That alone made him interesting.

The sound of the lock alerting her to him before he appeared in the doorway. His footsteps were quiet on the wooden floor. His eyes lifted to meet hers, he simply gestured for her to follow.

Maomao rose from her place on the bed without protest.

He walked behind her as he guided her down the hallway. His presence just close enough to stop her if she ran.

The house was unimpressive. Certainly not one would expect from a named clan.

The corridors were wide enough, the ceilings high but the furnishings plain. The sliding doors show faint scratches along the frames.

Nothing suggested wealth or prestige.

Though her father must have been merciful when he cast them out. The thought almost made her laugh.

They stopped before a larger room. Lahan’s brother slid it open and gestured again. Maomao stepped inside.

A sitting room.

It was large, though sparsely decorated. Low couches lined the walls; a narrow table placed between them. A single lantern burned in the centre of the room, a glow throwing shadows across the floor.

Three people were inside.

Maomao’s eyes swept over them immediately, cataloguing details the way she always did.

An old man sat at the centre couch, his posture rigid despite his age. His back was straight , though his shoulders sagged slightly. Deep lines carved his face, and his eyes studied her with thinly veiled hostility.

Her grandfather, most likely.

Two others stood nearby. A woman and a man. Her aunt and uncle if her assumption was correct. They were dressed simply, though even in their plainness there were subtle differences. Her aunt wore slightly finer cloth than the others. Her hair styled carefully, almost as if she still clung to remnants of former status. The old man also carried faint traces of past authority in the way he held himself.

The uncle and Lahan’s brother were less careful.

Maomao absorbed all of this in a single glance. Then her posture changed, her shoulders straightened, her chin lifted slightly, her gaze sharpened.

Everyone in the room knew who she was. They didn’t want Maomao, they wanted Lady Kan. Very well, Lady Kan they would have.

The old man spoke first “Granddaughter”

Lady Kan lowered herself into a perfect bow “Grandfather.”

Her voice was smooth, polite, and entirely devoid of warmth.

The old man rose slowly from his seat, joints protesting faintly as he approached. His eyes roamed across her face, then down her body, studying her like an object placed before him for inspection.

His lips curled “So you’re Lakan’s offspring. Are we sure that whore didn’t lie?”

For a moment, the room seemed to stop breathing. Lady Kan did not react immediately. Her face remained composed, her expression neutral in the same way she often looked when listening to someone particularly dull. But inside something cold twisted.

Her mother. There were many things Lady Kan disagreed on with the woman. But that did not give anyone the right to insult her.

Especially not this bitter old relic.

The old man took a step closer, clearly pleased with himself. His chin lifted, his expression smug, as if expecting her to shrink down at the insult. Instead she straightened, something in her eyes hardening.

Behind her Lahan’s brother shifted his weight uneasily. Even he seemed to feel the change in the air.

“You barely resemble him,” the old man continued, voice thick with disdain “frankly, I’m surprised Lakan even acknowledged you. That woman-”

He never finished his sentence. Lady Kan moved quickly. So quickly no one had time to process what happened. Her arm rose in one swift motion and struck. The crack of the slap exploded throughout the room.

The old man’s head snapped sideways from the impact. The entire room froze.

Lady Kan stood where she was, her arm still raised from the strike. Her palm stung. Slowly she lowered her hand.

Her expression remained calm, cold.

Behind her, hands grabbed her wrists. Lahan’s brother had moved quickly, yet she noticed something. His grip was loose. Almost as if it were just a performance. Interesting.

The old man straightened. The skin along his cheek had already begun to turn red where her hand had struck him.

When he finally turned back his expression was monstrous.

“You brat!” he roared. Spit flew from his mouth as rage twisted his features.

“Do you know who I am!? He shouted, “I will destroy you!”

Lady Kan only studied him further. She had heard the stories. Of how he was once a great soldier. Looking at him now it was difficult to imagine. His anger made him look less like a terrifying patriarch and more like an old man throwing a tantrum.

Lady Kan smiled “Of course I know who you are sir,” her voice was sweet, though entirely insincere. “you’re the idiot who got usurped by his own son.”

The old man’s face darkened further, the red mark standing out starkly against his pale skin.

Lady Kan tilted her head, examining him. She really did have a bad habit of not knowing when to stop. The old man raised his hand. He intended to strike her, but just as his hand began to swing downward.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you”

The voice cut through the room like a blade. Everyone turned to the doorway. The man was several years older than Lady Kan, his posture relaxed despite the tension in the room. His clothing marked him as a court official, though he carried himself with the easy confidence of someone accustomed to moving between political and military circles.

Lady Kan didn’t know whether she should be relieved or angry.

Rikuson.

“And who are you supposed to be?” the woman demanded sharply, her voice grated on Lady Kan’s nerves instantly.

“I am Rikuson” he replied calmly “Master Lakan’s aide.”

His gaze swept across the room “And I am here for Lady Kan”

Silence followed. He waited though no one objected. After a moment his attention drifted back to Lady Kan. He gave her a subtle wink; she rolled her eyes.

Rikuson turned toward the hallway “Now would be a good time.”

Heavy footsteps approached, Lihaku entered, he looked irritated. Lady Kan pursed her lips. That was not a good sign.

He moved quickly; within moments the old man and his relatives were restrained. The aunt shrieked, the old man glared, and the uncle simply watched.

Rikuson stepped forward and bowed deeply before Lady Kan “My Lady”

The greeting was far more formal than necessary considering she still wore the clothes of a servant.

“Rikuson” she said flatly, “what are you doing here?”

“I am here to escort you back, my lady”

She glared at him “You know what I mean”

Rikuson sighed lightly and rubbed his face “When you didn’t return, Ukyou became concerned. He organised search parties, though found nothing.”

He gestured towards Lihaku “Then this one heard about your disappearance and promptly panicked”

Lihaku scowled at him, Rikuson only continued “He ran straight to me.”

Lady Kan folded her arms, pulling a face “And?”

Rikuson shrugged slightly “Your cousin eventually provided your location.”

So Lahan’s brother had helped. Interesting.

“Does my father know about this?” she asked

Rikuson hesitated, before looking away “Yes”

Lady Kan’s eyes narrowed

“He was with me when Lihaku arrived.” He paused “He is currently at the Verdigris House… waiting for you”

Lady Kan sighed quietly. Of course he was. Rikuson avoided her gaze. He knew exactly what kind of temper that meeting would produce. After all, he had been on the receiving end many times before.

~ * ~

The carriage ride was quick, too quick.

The carriage rattled across the bumpy road, Lady Kan kept her eyes facing the window, watching the streets pass by. If only to avoid the gaze of Rikuson, who sat across from her, no doubt to keep an eye on him.

She couldn’t find fault in her father. She had lied about her position in the rear palace. Putting herself in more danger than a lady of her status should.

She was accustomed to being wrong, she would just have to make it, so she was right. As long as she could convince her father that the pros of her acting as a food taster outweighed the cons she would be fine.

A simple enough task.

The carriage slowed as it came to a stop in front of the Verdigris House. Lihaku opened the door for them and Rikuson stepped out first, offering her a hand. She wanted to glare at him more, yell that he was to obvious, but she didn’t.

Instead she turned her head, ignoring him, and stepped out on her own, making her way inside.

There she met the Madam, Ukyou, and the three princesses, all looking at her with varying degrees of sadness. No doubt for the conversation she was about to have rather than her little kidnapping experience.

She didn’t want their pity.

“Maomao” the Madam said, her voice quieter than usual “Your father is-”

She held up a hand, Lady Kan was still in control, unfortunately for her family.

“I know where my father is”

There was only one room her father ever went to, now that there wasn’t a courtesan there for him to buy out.

She walked past them; she would socialise later when this was behind her. walking up the stairs, she made her way to the room. The hallway felt different, no longer smelling of the incense she had been sent to buy only earlier in her stay.

She reached the door, exhaling slightly. She forced her shoulders to relax, straightening her posture just enough. Her father would notice, he always noticed. It was how he was able to determine lies from truths. Although she had no intention of lying, she didn’t want to give him any more reason to pull her kicking and screaming back home.

She slid the door open and there he was. He sat in front of a small table, a go board in front of him. He twirled a go stone in his fingers. His posture was almost relaxed. But she could see the slightest twitch in his jaw. A sign he was annoyed.

At her movement he turned his head nodding “Maomao” his voice was calm.

She bowed perfectly “father”

He motioned to the seat across from him, she took it without question. The board was already prepared. Black stones in one bowl, white in the other.

A familiar battlefield.

When father and daughter disagreed, words were rarely enough. Go was much safer.

She took a black stone between her fingers. She placed it down, making the first move. But she knew the first move on the board rarely mattered. The real opening always came with words.

Her father placed a white stone “you disappoint me daughter.”

She didn’t look up, instead studying the grid, waiting. He always preferred to speak in full before a counterattack.

“Why,” he continued, placing another stone “would you lie about your position in the rear palace?”

She placed her black stone, far from his. “I didn’t lie,” she replied calmly, his brow twitched “you just never asked the correct question.”

Silence filled the room for a moment. He placed a white stone, cutting off her formation. “Semantics” his tone sharpened slightly

“Tell me,” he continued “how you became the precious consort’s food taster.”

His gaze lifted from the board “I was under the impression you wished to remain hidden.”

She felt his eyes settle on her. Expectant. She didn’t meet them.

“I discovered the reason the royal heirs were dying.” She placed another stone, louder this time. “I was discovered shortly afterward and brought before the consort. She wished to reward my service.”

She paused.

“And since I informed them I was an apothecary, they deemed me suitable for the role of food taster.”

Her father hummed. He placed a white stone, capturing three of her pieces. He removed them from the board.

“Your brother knew” his voice had lost the earlier softness. “You swore him to secrecy. You knew this was wrong, and yet you continued”

She met his eyes this time, keeping her voice steady “I did not lie. I merely withheld information.”

His gaze hardened “that was not your decision to make”

The temperature in the room seemed to drop. He placed another stone.

“You are the Princess of the La Clan.” He said sharply. “And yet you act as a poison taster for a consort. You embarrass your family.”

She knew he was aware of the poisoning incident. Of course he was. She stood abruptly, the board shaking slightly.

“I joined the rear palace as a laundry maid.” She shot back “is that not the greater disappointment! Lady Kan reduced to washing clothes.”

His eyes narrowed and his jaw tightened. “You are correct. I should never have allowed you to enter the rear palace. I should have listened to your mother.”

Her body froze. For a moment she said nothing. She rarely lost control of her emotions. But tonight had been long, exhausting. She inhaled softly, forcing herself to sit again.

“I understand the gravity of what I did.” Her voice was calmer now, more measured. “but my position has strengthened our cause.”

She placed another black stone. “This position has given me access to information we would otherwise never obtain.”

She watched his face carefully. “I have learned far more within the palace than I ever could outside of it.”

He tapped a stone against the board. “You would have gathered that information regardless.”

It wasn’t a question. He knew. He always knew. She remained calm.

“Perhaps” she placed a stone down. “But this position makes it easier.”

He placed a white stone down, cutting into her formation. “you underestimate the risks. You sit beside the imperial consorts. You handle the emperor’s meals. You stand within arm’s reach of the throne.”

His eyes lifted again. “And you expect me to believe no one will eventually notice the daughter of the La Clan lurking in the shadows?”

She didn’t answer immediately, instead studying the board. Then she spoke. “even if you wish to remove me now, you could not.”

His eyebrows rose.

“A maid who disappears is suspicious” she placed a black stone to stabilise her territory. “A lady in waiting who disappears is investigated, thoroughly.”

Her gaze sharpened.

“My sudden removal would invite questions neither of us wants answered.” Silence followed.

Who father leaned back, watching her. “And your fascinations with poisons? Does your position not place you dangerously close to the emperor?” his expression changed to one she could not decipher.

“I have spoken to the emperor, several times.” She admitted.

Her father pinched the bridge of his nose, above his monocle. “When?” he asked.

“When consort Lihua fell ill.” She paused “he requested my assistance.”

There was a long silence before he spoke again “Your mother does not yet know. If she did… you would already be back at the residence.”

She knew that. her mother had an uncanny ability to persuade her father. But Lady Kan had her own record of victories.

She said nothing. The board remained between them. Her father sighed.

“I will allow you to remain”

Her fingers tightened slightly.

“If only because removing you now would create greater danger.” His gaze hardened again “but understand this. If you leave the rear palace again, you will inform me personally.”

She nodded

“You will continue sending letters, and you will be watched far closer from now on.”

By the eunuch she presumed.

“Yes father”

She looked back at the Go board. The game had gotten chaotic in their argument, but it was still salvageable. She picked up a black stone, placing it down. There was no reason they couldn’t finish the match.

The board slowly filled, stone by stone.

Their argument had disrupted their formations, leaving gaps across the board, but neither of them commented on it.

Maomao placed another black stone, her father responding immediately.

For several more moves neither of them spoke. Then. “Maomao” his voice was casual.

She hummed softly.

“If a situation were to arise.” He said slowly, “in which your loyalties were divided. Where would they fall?”

Her fingers paused above the bowl. She looked up.

“Between what options” she asked.

He gave a faint smile. “Let us say…” he placed a stone, sealing off one of her escape routes “between the imperial household, and your own family.”

The meaning was clear. The emperor versus the La Clan. Maomao placed her stone down carefully.

“That is an unlikely scenario.”

“It is not. In fact I would say it is inevitable.”

She didn’t respond right away, instead studying the board. His last move had been aggressive, pushing deeper into territory she thought secure. Typical.

“if such a situation occurred, the correct answer would depend on the circumstances.”

Lakan raised an eyebrow “That sounds like avoidance.”

“It is realism” she placed another stone. “If the imperial household were endangered, and the empire destabilised, the consequences would reach far beyond this palace.”

Her father leaned forward “so you would choose the emperor.”

She shook her head “I did not say that.” she captured two stones.

He watched her carefully. “You’re dodging the question.”

“Because it is a poor one. Loyalty is rarely a single direction.”

The corner of Lakan’s mouth lifted faintly. “Very philosophical.”

She continued almost as if he hadn’t spoken “The empire cannot function without the named clans, and the named clans cannot function without the emperor.”

“So if the emperor and the La Clan came into conflict?” Lakan pressed.

She met his gaze. “Then someone has made a catastrophic mistake.”

“And you? What would you do?”

She looked back at the board, then placed her final stone. It secured her territory while trapping several of his pieces at once.

“I would solve the problem before it reached that point.”

Lakan stared at the board. Then he began to laugh. Not mocking, but amused.

“You truly are my daughter.” He said. “Though you didn’t answer the question.”

She tilted her head slightly “I did.”

“No.” He said softly. “You avoided choosing.”

“That was my choice.”

Another pause, then Lakan began removing the trapped white stones from the board.

“Good.” He murmured.

She blinked.

He continued. “If you had answered differently, I would have dragged you out of that palace tonight.”

She froze. “You must jest.”

“I am not.” He looked at her calmly. “A daughter who chooses the emperor over her family is dangerous, but a daughter who chooses her family blindly is even more dangerous.”

His gaze sharpened. “I needed to know which one you were.”

She exhaled. “You are a terrible father.”

He only smiled “And yet,” he gestured to the board “I still won.”

She looked down. He had. Sometime during their conversation, she had stopped paying attention. She sighed.

“I hate playing Go with you.”

He chucked softly “That is because you are still thinking like an apothecary.” He stood “And not like a strategist.”

He walked toward the door, pausing, turning back. “Do try not to poison the emperor.”

She frowned “I wasn’t planning to.”

“Good. Because if you do…” his voice carried a hint of amusement “your mother would be very displeased.”

Then he left.

Maomao stared at the Go board. Then at the empty doorway.

“That man is exhausting.”

She placed one last black stone anyway.

Just in case.

~ * ~

Maomao’s father left soon after their conversation, leaving Rikuson to watch over her until she returned to the rear palace.

She had known Rikuson for years, he had started working for her father when he was only a teenager. At the point he hadn’t be trusted, only knowing her as Lady Kan.

She always greeted him with the respect someone in her father’s employment deserved. It hadn’t been until years later that he had met her without her veil, assisting Lihaku with her escape. Perhaps if they hadn’t met so young he could have been considered a good suiter, but he had watched her grow up, and still thought of her as a child sometimes.

The rattle of the kettle brought Maomao out of her thoughts. She took it of the heat, placing it onto a tray.

She walked into one of the many receiving rooms, Rikuson sat there, on a couch. He looked up at her surprised, as she placed the tray down on the low table in front of him.

“Well this is a surprise, Lady Kan serving me tea.”

She glared at him as she took the seat across him, pouring the hot liquid into the two cups. “Please use my name while we’re here.” Then she added, “I’ve been acting as a servant for months, the habits are ingrained by now.”

He picked his cup up, sipping it slightly. “I can see that.” He placed the cup back down before continuing, “How was your conversation with Master Lakan?”

She pursed her lips, taking a long sip. The hot liquid burnt as it slid down her throat, though it was more pleasant than recounting her earlier conversation.

“He is allowing me to remain in the rear palace.”

Rikuson looked quite shocked at the revelation. Looking down for a moment before speaking.

“When Lihaku arrived, your father was angry. Angry that you lied, angry that his family was the one to blame. He went straight to Lahan, demanding answers, I’m not sure how he knew that Lahan knew.”

He paused.

“I was sure he would drag you back kicking and screaming, and that I would be left to deal with the aftermath.”

Maomao grimaced. Rikuson was regularly forced to babysit her after an argument. Her family fearing what she might do if she were left alone. She was irrational, they had said.

Though the thought of her kicking and screaming embarrassed her far more. She wouldn’t be caught dead doing something so immature!

She changed the topic “How have things been in the outer court?”

Rikuson smiled slightly “They have been rather boring without your entertaining personality.”

She scowled, he continued “The soldiers have been asking about you.” He said quietly. “They seem to miss you.” He chuckled. “I don’t entirely disagree with them.”

Maomao smiled. During her time in the outer court, she regularly visited the barracks with her father. The soldiers had been quite hostile when a fourteen-year-old had turned up at their doorstep, but their attitudes had quickly changed when her strategies had won them battles.

And Rikuson, he had always been good at switching between being her subordinate even if he was older than her. Even if he enjoyed teasing her while doing it.

Rikuson, crossing his legs, a gesture showing he was relaxed, asked her “Anything interesting in the rear palace?”

“No, nothing.” She said quickly, though she accidentally diverted her gaze.

Rikuson only smiled “I might not be as good as your father at detecting lies, but you should know better than to hide the truth, Maomao.”

She sighed. “You understand that I am a poison taster, yes?”

He nodded.

“I was first discovered by the manager of the rear palace.”

“Master Jinshi?” Rikuson asked.

“How did you know?”

“Your father has become increasingly interested in him over the last few weeks. A eunuch with that much power is rather interesting.”

Maomao felt her jaw clench. This was news to her, something her father hadn’t spoken of during their long talk.

She continued “He has taken an interest in me. He regularly asks for my input in certain cases.”

Rikuson raised his eyebrows “the manager of the rear palace interested in a mere lady in waiting?”

“I was confused too, at first. Though I soon realised it was due to my skills.”

“Your skills?” he repeated.

“Yes. He is aware of my experience as an apothecary, it was his decision to turn me into a poison taster. I am under the impression that he believes I am useful, though he is apprehensive of my loyalties. He believes it imperative that he stays close, lest I betray him and the empire with my knowledge of poisons.”

“He believes you capable of poisoning both the concubines and emperor?” he asked.

“That is the only explanation.” She simply replied. There was just no other explanation why he would seek her out so often. At least he had slowed in his seduction attempts.

Rikuson laughed loudly, bringing the cup back to his lips. “You never cease to amaze me Maomao.”

Was she missing something. Why did his reaction seem so strange. She only picked up her cup; she didn’t know whether to be offended or not.

~ * ~

Her trip back to the rear palace was uneventful, compared to the last few days. She had managed to catch up with her sisters, explaining all of the things she had been up to while absent.

She had even spoken to Lihaku, explaining that it wasn’t his fault she was kidnapped and that he shouldn’t blame himself. She didn’t know why she cared so much, perhaps she just wanted him to realise the truth.

She had returned to the Jade Pavilion only minutes ago. Already bombarded with questions from the other ladies in waiting about her trip. She had come up with a few stories, ones to fill the gap of her getting kidnapped.

Though that was far from the worse part, Master Jinshi had been there to when she had returned. For some reason he had looked angry. Why she was unaware of. Perhaps he wanted her help with a case only to find her missing. She wasn’t aware she was supposed to alert him as well.

She arrived at the receiving room; he had requested to speak with her after she had gotten dressed. Maybe he wanted to speak to her about the poisoning attempt at the garden party. She hadn’t had time to investigate the matter herself yet. Unfortunately.

She quietly knocked, making her presence known, before slipping inside the room. Jinshi sat there, on a low couch. He was scowling for some reason, and his arms were crossed, a finger tapping aggressively.

Must be a nervous tick.

She bowed, slightly off, like a servant would be. “Master Jinshi, you wanted to see me?”

They stayed like that, in silence for a moment.

“Why don’t you start by telling me who this Lihaku fellow is.”

What. Why was he so concerned over Lihaku. Perhaps he believed something had happened between them. After all, one of the only ways to leave the rear palace was by a hairpin, and everyone knew what receiving one meant. Perhaps she could use this to find out just how concerned with her he was, and to annoy him of course. Yes. That was a good idea.

“He was my guarantor, sir.”

“Your guarantor.” He merely repeated.

“Yes sir,” she continued “at the garden party, he was handing out several hairpins. I received one as a consolation prize.”

He began tapping on his leg more aggressively. “So you mean I lost to a consolation prize?” he sounded almost… jealous.

She couldn’t blame him as such. His hairpin had been the more expensive offer. However, the territory that came with accepting the eunuch’s hairpin was not something she wanted to delve into.

In fact, she had taken the hairpin with her to the pleasure district to sell. She had used it to protect herself, and she had believed she had lost it for good. But when she had returned to the Verdigris House Ukyou had handed it back to her. They had found it during their searches for her.

For some reason, when she had laid eyes on it she had felt a wave of relief wash over her. No doubt nervous what the eunuch would think if he found out she had lost it. She had refrained from selling it during the rest of her stay.

He continued to look annoyed; she relished the sight. “Funny how even though I gave you one, you didn’t bother seeking me out.”

She had already suspected his response, coming up with an explanation. If it hurt his feelings then it was all the more fun.

“Unfortunately sir, I couldn’t come up with a repayment you would enjoy.”

He stood up abruptly, she smirked slightly. “You mean you gave him something?”

“Yes, I bestowed a night of blissful dreams on him.” No doubt Pairin had tired him out after a few rounds.

“A whole night?” his voice wavered slightly. Maomao lips continued to pull up, but she forced them into a clueless smile.

“Yes, I worked hard, so I’m pleased with myself.”

She thumped her fist against her chest as Jinshi suddenly dropped his cup, spilling hot tea over his robes. He stood there, slacked jawed, staring off into space. Perhaps she had misjudged his intentions. He had reacted differently than she had expected, and now, she was left to clean up a mess.

She decided to play with him a bit more. She grabbed a cloth moving around the table until she was kneeling in front of him. She started rubbing at the tea-stained areas.

“You’re not usually this clumsy, best to get this washed right away so it doesn’t stain.”

She stood up, looking at his expression, though it hadn’t changed. She had half an idea to close his mouth herself, but refrained. No doubt touching his chin could be seen as all sorts of improper.

He had yet to move, and though seeing him react was rather interesting, she was getting a bit bored of the non-responses. She turned to leave, but not before bowing.

“Please excuse me.”

And with that she made her exit, still confused as to why he was so concerned with her chastity.

Chapter Text

Maomao stood behind Lady Gyokuyou, her posture perfectly straight, her face as blank and unremarkable as ever. Anyone looking at her would see nothing unusual. But her mind was racing.

When Jinshi had requested Hongniang leave the room, she had felt a flicker of unease. It was rare for him to dismiss the senior lady in waiting so abruptly, especially during official matters.

Even so, she had never expected this.

Master Kounen had died.

The words still echoed in her head. An overdose, Jinshi had said. Too much alcohol. Maomao’s expression did not change, but inside, she immediately rejected the explanation.

Lady Kan knew Kounen.

Not well, but well enough.

He had worked with her father for years both as a military official and on the Board of Rites, a frequent guest at certain gatherings. Whenever discussions stretched late into the evening, the man had proven himself remarkably capable of handling his drink.

Lady Kan had once considered challenging him to a drinking contest herself.

Unfortunately, such things had been rather difficult while wearing a veil and maintaining the proper dignity of a clan princess.

Still

She knew better than most what the man could tolerate. There was no way someone like Kounen would simply drink himself to death. Her thoughts began sorting through possibilities automatically.

Poison? Perhaps.

But poisoning a seasoned drinker through alcohol alone would require either an unusual substance or a very careless victim.

Neither seemed likely. Unless… Her brow almost creased. Kounen’s habits.

There had been something her father once mentioned in passing. Something trivial at the time. Something about his diet.

She sifted through the memory. The conversation had been months ago. Perhaps longer. Her father had been speaking to another official, half amused. Kounen had lost his sense of taste for certain flavours.

Or rather… for salt.

Maomao’s thoughts sharpened.

Interesting.

If someone lacked sensitivity to salt, it would make administering it considerably easier. Of course, the information might be useless. It was entirely possible the man had simply overindulged. Or perhaps his drink had been tampered with.

Maomao suppressed a sigh.

If she were still operating in the outer court, she would have insisted on joining the investigation. She would likely have accomplished more in a few hours than those self-important officials would manage in days. Unfortunately… She was currently a lady in waiting in the rear palace. Which meant she was expected to stand quietly behind her mistress and pretend not to exist.

“Do you really believe he could have died from over drinking?”

The voice cut through her thoughts.

Maomao blinked once.

Jinshi stood nearby, his expression unusually subdued. Something about his tone was different. Normally his voice carried that familiar sweetness, the polished charm he used so easily with others. But now it sounded… duller. Quieter. Almost sad.

Maomao tilted her head slightly. Did he know Kounen personally? Lady Kan could have answered that question immediately.

Maomao, however, required more information.

“It is possible,” she replied.

She raised her sleeves slightly in front of her mouth, maintaining the demure posture expected of her. Her voice remained neutral.

“However, there remains the possibility of poison.”

Jinshi’s gaze lowered to the floor. For a moment he said nothing. Then he nodded slowly.

“I thought you might say that.”

There was a brief silence. Lady Gyokuyou watched the exchange with mild curiosity but did not interrupt. Finally Jinshi looked back up. His eyes settled on Maomao.

“Would you be able to look into it?”

The request sounded casual. But Maomao suspected it was anything but. She bowed deeply. Truthfully, she had been hoping he would ask.

Master Kounen had been one of her father’s allies. If his death was unnatural, then someone had interfered with the delicate balance of the court.

Investigating would simply be returning the favour.

A transaction.

Nothing more.

“Of course, sir.”

~ * ~

The next day Maomao was summoned to the matron of the serving women’s office.

The location itself was almost amusing.

This was the very room where she had first encountered the sparkly eunuch.

She paused briefly at the entrance, remembering the moment clearly. If she had not been caught that day, if Jinshi had not noticed her curiosity and dragged her into his orbit…

The last few months would have been very different.

Probably quite boring.

Certainly safer. But also far less interesting.

Spending two full years pretending to be nothing more than a laundry maid would have grown exhausting eventually. Even Maomao’s tolerance for monotony had its limits.

And, admittedly, her recent conversation with her father had been… stimulating. Arguing with someone as intelligent and calculating as Lakan always was.

There was a particular exhilaration that came with it. More logic, less emotion. It was very different from arguing with Jinshi.

In Maomao’s opinion, Jinshi allowed far too much emotion to seep into their disputes. As though her decisions somehow affected him personally.

A strange habit for a palace official.

Speaking of which.

He sat behind the small wooden desk now, his long sleeves resting neatly beside him. Gaoshun stood just behind his shoulder as always, the model of quiet professionalism.

Three objects had been arranged carefully on the desk. Exactly as she had requested.

The jug of alcohol Kounen had been drinking.

The broken jar he had used shortly before his death.

And a written report detailing Kounen’s life and habits.

Maomao approached slowly. She already suspected she knew how the man had died. Unfortunately, revealing that conclusion too quickly would raise questions about how she knew so much about Kounen in the first place. Questions that might lead to her true identity. Evidence would be necessary.

Jinshi gestured toward the desk.

“Please,” he said quietly. “Do what you need to.”

His voice lacked its usual playful lilt. In fact… His entire demeanour was different. The familiar sparkle was gone. Under the soft lantern light he looked… almost human. His brow was faintly creased; his lips pressed into a thin line. His posture was rigid, far too straight, as though he were forcing himself to remain composed.

But what was the most surprising. He wasn’t staring at her. Normally his gaze followed her like a curious child watching a new toy. Now his eyes remained fixed on the objects in front of them.

She found the change unsettling. He looked younger like this somehow. Yet at the same time, strangely more mature.

It was curious.

She expelled the thoughts from her mind, nodding as she began her examination.

She poured a small amount of the alcohol into a silver cup. The liquid shimmered faintly as it swirled. She watched carefully for any reaction, though none came. No sign of poison then.

Maomao lifted the cup and took a cautious sip. The alcohol spread coolly across her tongue. She immediately grimaced.

She had tasted many varieties of alcohol in her life, both willingly and unwillingly. This one reminded her strongly of several questionable “gifts” she had received in the past.

It was bitter. But not the bitterness of poison. Rather the faint aftertaste suggested that it had originally been sweet.

Jinshi noticed her expression.

“I know,” he said.

She glanced up.

“It’s sweet, isn’t it?”

He must have assumed she was reacting to the sweetness itself. After all, he knew of her aversion to sweet things.

Maomao didn’t bother correcting him. Instead she set the cup down and picked up one of the fragments from the shattered jar. The brown clay vessel had been broken into several pieces. Some were clearly missing. She raised one shard to eye level. Its surface looked slightly uneven.

Rough.

Almost grainy.

She rubbed her finger across it. Then, without a moment of hesitation, brought that finger to her mouth.

Jinshi jumped as if struck by lightning. “Should you really be doing that?!”

Maomao nearly rolled her eyes. So some of his personality had returned after all.

Good.

She scraped a bit of the residue onto her fingertip and walked over to the nearby brazier. Sprinkling it lightly into the flame. The fire flared yellow for a brief moment before settling again.

She sighed softly.

“Unfortunately,” she said, “it isn’t poison.”

Jinshi stared at the flame. His eyes widened slightly.

“Salt,” he murmured.

Maomao blinked in mild surprise. It seemed he had remembered the little chemistry lesson he once interrupted. He could be so confusing sometimes.

She returned to the desk and picked up the report. Her eyes skimmed over the text. Truthfully, she had little need for it. Most of the contents were things she already knew. But appearances mattered.

“Just as I thought,” she murmured thoughtfully.

She had become rather skilled at pretending to discover things. Jinshi leaned forward slightly, resting his hands on the desk.

“What is it?”

His voice was sharper now. More urgent. Maomao frowned faintly as she pretended to reread a passage.

“It seems that over time,” she said slowly, “Master Kounen lost his ability to taste salt.”

Jinshi blinked.

“I didn’t know that was possible.”

“It is.”

Her tone remained clinical.

Detached.

“It is a medical condition often caused by poor diet or prolonged stress.”

Her eyes scanned the report again.

“It appears his symptoms began shortly after the deaths of his wife and child.”

She spoke as though discussing a distant stranger. Not a man she had seen since childhood gatherings. Not someone who had laughed with her father.

“The jar he was drinking from,” she continued, tapping one of the fragments lightly, “contained an excessive amount of salt.”

She looked up.

“So much that salt crystals remained behind.”

Jinshi’s brow furrowed deeply.

“But… why would someone do that?”

Maomao considered the question. In truth, she knew countless methods of assassination. Poisons. Needles. Herbs.

Salt, however…

That was unusual. It would only truly work if the victim could not taste it.

Which meant… Whoever had done this knew Kounen well. Very well.

“There are several possibilities,” she said. “It may have begun as a prank.”

Though Jinshi still seemed unconvinced. She continued calmly regardless.

“When a colleague is considered too serious, others sometimes attempt to embarrass him. Salting his drink could have started as a joke.”

Her gaze hardened slightly.

“When he failed to notice… they may have increased the amount.” She paused. “Or the dosage may have been intentional from the beginning.”

She watched Jinshi’s hands slowly curl into fists.

“You’re saying someone murdered him.”

Maomao met his gaze evenly.

“I am not saying anything, sir.” Her tone remained neutral. “I am merely presenting my opinion based on the available evidence.”

Jinshi narrowed his eyes studying her for a moment. Then he turned to Gaoshun.

“You know what to do.”

Gaoshun only bowed silently and left the room.

The door slid shut behind him. Now only Maomao and Jinshi remained. Jinshi inhaled slowly, straightening his posture again as if rebuilding the walls around his emotions. As he moved, his outer robe shifted slightly. For a brief moment, Maomao saw an obsidian tassel hanging inside the folds.

Interesting. Very interesting. She chose her next words carefully.

“Were you and Master Kounen… close?”

His gaze softened. “Yes.”

His voice was much quieter now. “He helped me when I was younger.”

Maomao studied him. They must have been very close indeed if his death affected him this deeply. For a moment she wondered if her and Jinshi had ever crossed paths as children. It seemed unlikely, yet the thought lingered.

She looked up just in time to see the sadness in his eyes fade. He reached into his sleeve and produced a small bottle. She eyed it suspiciously. Did he seriously expect her to test this for poison as well?

He held it out toward her. his next words coming as a surprise.

“Your prize,” he said. “…Sorry it’s not the same kind you just tried.”

Her eyes widened instantly seemingly sparkling. A wide smile spread across her face.  “So it’s booze!”

The transformation was so immediate Jinshi almost laughed despite his bad mood.

“Yes.” Then he added slightly concerned “Don’t drink it in public.”

Maomao only clutched the bottle like a treasure. Her eyes sparkled. “Yes.”

Her voice had definitely risen an octave.

~ * ~

The next few days passed without incident.

Maomao slowly eased back into her duties, though several of the palace ladies still regarded her with visible unease. Word had apparently spread quickly about the incident at the garden party, and many of them seemed reluctant to allow her anywhere near their meals.

Maomao scoffed.

As though consuming poison once meant she would suddenly make a habit of it. Even if it was true, they certainly didn’t need to know that.

Still, routine eventually reasserted itself. That was until that morning.

Maomao had risen early, completing her responsibilities as Lady Gyokuyou’s poison taster before the sun had fully climbed above the palace walls. Afterward, with nothing urgent demanding her attention, she had wandered toward the clinic.

There was a new plant she had been ecstatically wanting to experiment with, a particular mixture that might improve the preservation of certain herbs. Unfortunately, her experiment had barely begun when a eunuch appeared at the doorway.

Without much explanation, he had ushered both her and the quack physician out of the clinic, through the rear palace gate, and toward a gathering crowd.

That alone was unusual Maomao thought to herself. Crowds right outside the rear palace rarely formed without reason.

Still, Maomao pushed her way through layers of silk robes and embroidered sleeves. Court ladies, ministers, and eunuchs stood clustered together, their expressions a mixture of shock and quiet displeasure.

Some stepped aside reluctantly as she passed. Others just stared openly. Their mouths flopped open like fish.

Eventually she reached the front of the gathering. There, on the ground, lay a body. A large grey cloth had been draped over it.

Curious.

Maomao observed the scene calmly, only half registering the quack’s frightened whimper somewhere behind her. The man was supposed to be a physician, yet he looked ready to faint. He was still as useless as ever.

The eunuch who had summoned them cleared his throat nervously.

“She… drowned,” he said, his voice wavering. “Judging by her robes, she appears to be a lady in waiting from the rear palace.”

Ah. That explained why we were called.

Maomao knelt beside the body and grasped the damp cloth.

It was heavy with moisture from the corpse beneath. She pulled it away her eyes widening.

Not because of the corpse itself.

Dead bodies no longer surprised her. Between the pleasure district and her father’s… unusual hobbies, she had seen more than most people.

No.

What surprised her was the identity of the victim. Even Maomao, who was notoriously poor at remembering faces, unlike Rikuson, recognized this one.

It was the woman from the garden party. The same woman she had seen holding that suspicious vial.

Maomao had already suspected that she was responsible for the poisoning attempt involving Lady Lishu or perhaps even Lady Gyokuyou.

She had intended to investigate the matter further but then she had left on her trip home before she could look further into it. She should have postponed her trip, this was far more important.

“Do you think you can handle this, little lady?”

The quack was practically hiding behind her. Pathetic. Maomao could easily take the lead in examining the corpse. But there were other avenues of investigation she would prefer to indulge in.

She sighed quietly.

Let’s see how much I can lie today.

“Unfortunately,” she said, “I cannot.”

“Oh?” came a familiar voice.

“So there are things even you refuse to do?”

Maomao looked up.

Jinshi’s face gradually came into view as he approached.

She blinked. Her body shuddering slightly.

How does he still look this pretty and sparkly while standing next to a dead body?

“I have been ordered never to touch a corpse,” she replied evenly.

The lie came easily.

The faster she distanced herself from the autopsy, the sooner she could begin her own investigation. Though Jinshi tilted his head slightly.

“An aversion to death?”

Her gaze drifted back toward the body. The woman’s robes were still damp. The water must have been freezing in the dead of night.

“No,” Maomao said calmly. “My teacher forbade me from touching corpses.”

In reality, Luomen had merely suggested it.

But suggestions were easy to reinterpret when necessary.

Jinshi’s eyebrow rose. “Why?”

Maomao grimaced slightly. Why was he so curious today.

Oh well, at least she wasn’t truly lying. Burying her face partly in her sleeves, she muttered “It’s because humans can become medicinal ingredients.”

A moment of silence followed. Jinshi and Gaoshun exchanged a glance. Then they both nodded. Jinshi shrugged.

“Makes sense.”

Maomao frowned slightly. Did they think her some kind of grave robber.

What a rude response.

She stood, her knees cracking faintly from crouching.

The quack could perform the examination whether he wanted to or not.

“Do we know who the victim is?” she asked.

“Not yet,” Jinshi replied. “We’re investigating, but no one has been reported missing.”

Interesting. Maomao bowed politely. “Very well.”

Then she turned and began walking back toward the rear palace.

“Apothecary!” Jinshi called after her.

She ignored him completely. She could easily picture the scowl his face was no doubt sporting. She wondered if the other ladies still found him that attractive when he glared. Then again, she doubted he glared at the other ladies.

As she walked, she began arranging the facts in her mind.

The woman had attended the garden party. That alone narrowed the possibilities considerably. Not just any lady in waiting could attend such an event.

Which meant she belonged to the household of one of the high consorts.

Not Lady Gyokuyou.

Not Lady Lihua.

And the Diamond Pavilion would hardly poison its own mistress.

Which left only one option.

The Garnet Pavilion.

Interesting.

Maomao had been gone for four days. It was entirely possible something had changed during that time. It seems she would have to pay Xiaolan a visit. She hadn’t seen the girl since before she left for home. She hoped nothing bad had come of her in her absence.

She found the girl quickly in the laundry courtyard, the scent of damp linens thick in the air.

Maomao set down the basket of robes she had picked up along the way and began scrubbing at a stubborn stain. Xiaolan noticed her immediately her expression brightening slightly, but she wisely kept her distance. The girl had learned to read Maomao’s expressions quite well over the years.

“Xiaolan,” Maomao said quietly. “How have you been?”

Xiaolan matched her lowered tone. “I’ve been good. How was your trip home?”

“Eventful,” Maomao replied with a sigh.

Then she leaned slightly closer. “Listen. I need your help.”

Xiaolan’s eyes brightened.

“Has there been any gossip about the Garnet Pavilion recently?”

The girl paused mid-scrub, resting her chin on her hand and leaving soap bubbles across her cheek. It looked rather funny.

“Now that you mention it…”

She thought for a moment.

“Oh! Apparently Lady Ah-Duo is leaving the rear palace at the end of the week.”

Maomao’s eyebrows shot upward.

“Leaving?” She lowered her voice further. “Why?”

“No one seems completely sure,” Xiaolan said. “Some people say it’s to make room for a new high consort.”

Then she grinned brightly. “Isn’t it strange, Maomao?”

Maomao smiled faintly. “It is strange.”

She finished scrubbing the robe and stood.

“Thank you, Xiaolan. I’ll bring snacks next time as a reward.”

Xiaolan’s face lit up. “Really? Thanks Maomao! I’ll keep listening for more rumours too!”

Maomao nodded and left the laundry courtyard. She deliberately left the basket of robes behind near several other maids. If they noticed it, the garments would eventually find their way back to their owner. If they didn’t well at least it wouldn’t be Maomao who got in trouble.

The Garnet Pavilion wasn’t far. But she couldn’t just walk in without a reason. She looked around at her surroundings. As she approached, she passed a nervous-looking maid carrying a basket. The girl appeared severely lost.

Perfect.

Maomao plastered the warmest smile she could manage across her face.

“Excuse me.” She tapped the girl lightly on the shoulder. “Are you alright?”

The maid nearly jumped out of her skin, almost dropping the basket.

“Ah! I’m sorry! I didn’t see you there!”

A bead of sweat slid down the girl’s forehead.

“I’m sorry if I startled you,” Maomao said kindly.

It was entirely insincerely.

“You looked a little unsure. I thought perhaps I could help.”

At that the maid visibly relaxed.

“I’m supposed to bring these robes to the Garnet Pavilion,” she explained nervously. “But I’ve never been to a high consort’s residence before…”

“I understand,” Maomao said gently.

“If you’d like, I could deliver them for you. I’ve brought items there before.”

Relief flooded the maid’s face. “Really? That would be amazing!”

“Of course.”

Maomao accepted the basket. Moments later she stepped through the wide gates of the Garnet Pavilion.

She hadn’t expected the scene inside. Maids and attendants rushed across the courtyard carrying boxes, bundles of cloth, and pieces of furniture.

It looked very much like a household preparing to move. So the rumours were most likely true. At the centre of the courtyard stood an older woman directing the activity with sharp efficiency.

An excellent place to start.

“Excuse me,” Maomao said politely. “I was told to bring these robes to the Garnet Pavilion. Where would you like them placed?”

The woman turned. A tired but welcoming smile crossed her face.

“Oh, thank you. Just place them over there. The others will take care of them.”

Maomao bowed. Then paused.

“Is there anything else I might assist with, ma’am? I’ve just finished my other duties.”

The woman glanced across the busy courtyard.

“Well, if you insist… we certainly won’t turn down extra help.”

Her eyes settled on a large pile of garments.

“Since you’re from the laundry department, could you help fold those robes?”

Maomao nodded obediently.

“Of course.”

She would likely be late for Lady Gyokuyou’s lunch.

But frankly…

This was far more interesting.

~ * ~

The report had arrived late. Nearly two months later than Jinshi had originally requested.

He had expected delays, of course. Searching for individuals with burn scars on their arms was hardly a straightforward task. Injuries like that could come from countless accidents: kitchen fires, lantern oil, regular mishaps. There were bound to be many people who bore similar scars without having any connection to the conspiracy he was investigating.

Still, when Gaoshun had finally spoken the name, well Jinshi had been surprised.

Fengming.

The head lady in waiting of the Garnet Pavilion. Jinshi had known the woman for years. Not just Fengming, but her mistress as well, Consort Ah-Duo. They had both lived within the rear palace for a long time, long enough that their presence had simply become part of the palace’s rhythm.

Ah-Duo was one of the few people in the rear palace who knew his true identity. And she had always treated him differently because of it.

Her nickname for him had been a refreshing change of pace from the usual layers of reverence and careful politeness he endured from others.

Because of that, the idea that someone from the Garnet Pavilion might be involved in the conspiracy felt… wrong.

He could not imagine Ah-Duo willingly allowing such things. Nor could he easily picture her attendants participating in them.

But unfortunately imagination had little place in investigations, and facts mattered.

And the facts pointed toward the Garnet Pavilion. Perhaps, he thought, it even made a certain kind of sense. Consort Ah-Duo was scheduled to leave the rear palace at the end of the week.

Preparations for her departure had thrown the pavilion into chaos. Servants and attendants had been moving belongings, packing garments, and rearranging living quarters. In such confusion, it would be easy to believe that certain activities might go unnoticed. If someone intended to act without being caught… This would be the perfect moment.

Jinshi stepped through the pavilion gates and paused.

The courtyard bustled with activity. Maids hurried past carrying boxes and folded fabrics. Eunuchs moved furniture while attendants shouted instructions.

He had originally come to speak with Ah-Duo herself. wanting to see how her preparations were progressing.

Yet as his gaze moved across the busy courtyard, it stopped.

Immediately.

There, among the maids, was a very familiar figure. A girl who absolutely should not have been here. She should have been at the Jade Pavilion by now.

So this is where she went.

Jinshi folded his sleeves behind his back as he watched quietly from the entrance. She moved through the courtyard with surprising ease. Folding robes. Sweeping the stone paths. Carrying baskets of cloth from one place to another.

From a distance, she looked no different from any other maid. Which in itself was strange.

He couldn’t help but wonder if Lady Gyokuyou had ordered this?

Surely not.

Even Gyokuyou would know that sending one of her ladies in waiting to work in another pavilion without permission would warrant punishment.

Yet she showed no hesitation.

She slipped seamlessly into the rhythm of the courtyard, joining the other workers as if she had always belonged there.

At one point she joined a small group of maids chatting while folding robes.

Jinshi blinked in mild surprise. The apothecary was talking. Actually talking. Her hands moved as she spoke, her expression shifting between mild irritation and quiet amusement. He had never seen her behave that way before. Certainly not with him. With him she was either reluctant, unimpressed, or quietly exasperated.

Watching her now almost felt like seeing a different person. Interesting. Very interesting.

Did she somehow determine that the corpse from earlier belonged to someone from the Garnet Pavilion?

The thought would not have surprised him.

That girl possessed a disturbing ability to reach conclusions far faster than most trained investigators. Perhaps she had noticed something the others missed. Or perhaps, she was simply curious. It wouldn’t be the first time.

Either way, she had inserted herself into the middle of the situation with remarkable speed. Jinshi found himself smiling faintly. That girl continued to intrigue him.

Not only had she proven immune to the charm of his appearance, something he once believed impossible, but she also possessed a rare ability to adapt to whatever environment she found herself in.

Whether acting as an apothecary, a poison taster, or apparently now a temporary laundry maid.

He considered approaching her. There were several questions he would like to ask.

For example

What exactly she thought she was doing.

But after a moment he shook his head slightly. The Jade Pavilion was hosting a tea gathering with the Diamond Pavilion tomorrow.

The apothecary would certainly be present. He could question her then.

For now, he simply watched as she continued working among the maids, her sleeves rolled slightly higher than usual as she folded another stack of robes.

A faint smirk tugged at his lips.

Yes. Tomorrow would be interesting.

~ * ~

Maomao’s investigation had not yielded much.

She had hoped to uncover the motive behind the poisoning, but the attendants of the Garnet Pavilion had proven frustratingly tight-lipped. Whenever she tried to steer the conversation in that direction, the women either pretended not to understand or simply changed the subject entirely.

They were diligent workers though. Far more disciplined than the ladies serving Consort Lihua or Consort Lishu. Even if it made conversation unpleasantly difficult.

Maomao had eventually returned to the Jade Pavilion that afternoon and accepted Hongniang’s scolding with quiet dignity. There had been little point in arguing. She had disappeared without permission, after all.

Her plan had been to return to the Garnet Pavilion today. Unfortunately, those plans had been delayed. She had been informed that her services were required for a tea party between Consort Gyokuyou and Consort Lishu.

Annoying. Still…

It might prove useful. After all, Lishu had been the original target of the poisoning.

Maomao stood behind Gyokuyou now, posture perfectly straight, her gaze lowered politely toward the table. She maintained the calm, expressionless demeanour expected of a lady-in-waiting.

Across from them sat Consort Lishu. Behind the young consort stood three ladies in waiting, their expressions carefully neutral. Beside them stood Lishu’s food taster. Maomao had heard that the girl had recently been promoted to head lady in waiting.

Maomao allowed herself the smallest smile as she remembered the reaction earlier when Lishu and her taster had first noticed her presence.

The look of alarm on their faces had been almost priceless. Maomao had nearly smirked. Fortunately, she had managed to keep her expression composed.

Tea parties like this one might appear dull to most people. If Maomao were less accustomed to them, she might have thought the same. But there was something fascinating about watching Gyokuyou at work.

The consort’s gentle conversation flowed easily, drifting from trivial topics to harmless gossip. Yet beneath that pleasant chatter, Maomao could see the true purpose.

Gyokuyou was gathering information.

Every small remark, every stray piece of gossip, would eventually be reported back to her family in the west.

It reminded Maomao far too much of her mother. Come to think of it… I wonder how she’s doing. Maomao hadn’t spoken with her in months.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Gyokuyou’s voice. “Do you enjoy sweet things?”

Maomao blinked and refocused on the conversation. Gyokuyou smiled warmly at Lishu. The younger consort’s face lit up immediately.

“Oh! I simply adore them!”

“Then perhaps this will suit you,” Gyokuyou said. “With the cold weather, I thought something warm and sweet might be pleasant. Orange peels steeped in honey water.”

Maomao watched carefully. The excitement drained from Lishu’s face almost instantly. Behind her, the ladies in waiting frowned openly, clearly displeased with the girl’s reaction.

Ah.

Maomao tilted her head slightly. Can she not have honey either? How unfortunate. The fear of poison was one thing, but to live unable to eat certain foods at all…

Maomao knew how frightening that could be. She picked up the teacup in front of her, performing her duty as poison taster.

Of course, she already knew it wasn’t poisoned. At least not for the rest of them. She lifted the cup to her lips and took a small sip.

The honey was unmistakable. Maomao lowered the cup and spoke quietly.

“Lady Gyokuyou.”

She gave the faintest shake of her head. Gyokuyou noticed immediately, she was grateful for that. it was far less embarrassing for the young consort.

The consort placed a hand lightly to her cheek in exaggerated surprise. “Oh my. Ailen, it seems this needs to be steeped longer.”

Gyokuyou clapped her hands lightly. “My apologies,” she said warmly to Lishu. “Why don’t we prepare something else for you?”

She tilted her head thoughtfully. “How about hot ginger water?”

Lishu’s expression brightened again, relief clear in her eyes. “That will be fine,” she said eagerly. “Thank you.”

Maomao lowered her gaze once more.

Tea parties were never truly about tea.

~ * ~

The remainder of the tea party passed without incident.

As usual, Maomao was dismissed once her duties as poison taster were complete. The other ladies in waiting refused to even let her lift a finger.

Which was how she found herself outside the pavilion, and face to face with a particularly irritating eunuch.

Jinshi leaned casually against a nearby pillar, arms folded within his sleeves as though he had been waiting there for some time.

“So,” he drawled lazily, “how was the tea party?”

Maomao just stared at him, she didn’t even try to hide her displeasure. Did he truly have nothing better to do?

“Everyone had an enjoyable time,” she replied flatly.

Without waiting for further conversation, she stepped past him. Or at least, she tried to. A hand landed on her shoulder, stopping her in place. “I’m far from finished with you, apothecary.”

Jinshi’s smile widened across his absurdly beautiful face. Maomao felt a surge of irritation as she shuddered uncontrollably. How was it she could control her irritation for everyone but him.

She slapped his hand off her shoulder with considerably more force than was strictly necessary, just for the fun of it.

“Funny,” she said coolly, “I am more than finished with you, sir.”

If the gesture offended him, he showed no sign of it. In fact, his smile only grew annoyingly brighter.

“Tell me then, dear apothecary,” he continued pleasantly, “why were you at the Garnet Pavilion yesterday?”

Crap.

Maomao’s thoughts froze for half a second. She had been so focused on her investigation that she had forgotten one critical detail. Jinshi was always lurking somewhere. Of course he would have noticed.

She quickly schooled her expression back into polite neutrality. “I was simply delivering some laundry, sir.”

“Really?”

Jinshi tilted his head slightly. His expression suggested he found the explanation deeply unconvincing.

“Yes, sir,” Maomao replied calmly. “I passed by the courtyard and noticed a maid who appeared rather lost. I offered to deliver the basket for her.”

It wasn’t entirely a lie, Maomao thought to herself. Just… rearranged slightly.

She only hoped Jinshi hadn’t been watching her for very long. If he had seen everything she did in the pavilion, he would know immediately that she was lying.

Jinshi’s eyes narrowed slightly. He studied her in silence for an uncomfortably long moment.

Maomao resisted the urge to fidget, she was a noble lady, she wouldn’t let some eunuch intimidate her.

Finally, he sighed.

“Well,” he said lightly, “since you are already acquainted with the Garnet Pavilion… how would you feel about assisting there for a while?”

Maomao blinked.

How generous of him. As though I have any say in the matter.

Still…

She had to admit the timing was convenient.

Her original plan had been to request a temporary transfer to the Garnet Pavilion anyway. It would allow her to continue investigating the drowned maid without attracting suspicion.

If she had asked directly, however, it might have raised questions. But if Jinshi ordered it himself, she mused, then there would be no issue at all.

She lowered her head obediently.

“When do I start?”

Jinshi’s smile returned, bright and satisfied.

“Immediately.”

Maomao suppressed a sigh.

Of course.

~ * ~

The Garnet Pavilion looked much the same as it had the previous day. Busy.

Servants moved back and forth across the courtyard carrying bundles of cloth, stacks of books, and small lacquered boxes. Larger items had already begun to disappear, leaving sections of the pavilion looking strangely bare.

Wooden crates now sat stacked along the hallways, lids resting nearby so that they could be sealed quickly once everything was packed.

The once lively residence felt… hollow. As though it were already preparing to forget the people who had lived there. Maomao stepped into the courtyard and scanned the activity. It didn’t take long to find the woman she was looking for.

The older attendant from yesterday stood near a stack of crates, issuing quiet instructions to two younger maids who struggled to lift a heavy bundle of winter bedding.

As Maomao approached, the woman turned and smiled in recognition.

“Hello again!” she said warmly. “You must be the extra help I requested.”

“That’s right,” Maomao replied with a polite bow.

“Wonderful.”

The woman brushed a loose strand of hair back into place before straightening.

“My name is Fengming, the head lady in waiting of the Garnet Pavilion, please follow me.”

Maomao obeyed.

Fengming led her through several quiet corridors where the usual decorations had already been removed. Empty hooks lined the walls where scroll paintings had once hung, and the faint scent of dust lingered in the air.

Eventually they stopped in front of a small side room. Fengming slid the door open. As she did, the sleeve of her robe shifted slightly. For just a moment, Maomao caught sight of bandages wrapped carefully around the woman’s left forearm.

The cloth looked fresh, and very familiar. Not unlike the bandages Maomao herself currently wore.

Interesting.

The sleeve fell back into place before anyone else might have noticed. Maomao kept her expression neutral. Burns.

Her thoughts drifted briefly to the coloured text plates she had discovered nearly two months ago. Plates used to transmit coded messages.

If that was truly the case… Then the poisoning attempt might be connected to something larger.

But if Fengming had been sending coded signals, to whom?

“Please air out these books, so we may pack them away” Fengming said, gesturing toward several stacks of bound volumes.

Maomao bowed again. Her eyes briefly flicked toward Fengming’s sleeve, which now concealed the bandages completely.

“Of course, ma’am.”

Once Fengming left, Maomao began her task.

The books had been stored tightly together in wooden cabinets, and the stale scent of paper and ink filled the room when she opened them.

She carried the volumes outside one by one, laying them carefully along a low veranda where the winter sunlight could reach them.

Dust puffed faintly into the air each time she opened a cover.

She shook out loose pages, fanned several books gently to allow air between the bindings, and wiped the wooden covers clean with a cloth she found nearby.

The repetitive motion gave her mind plenty of space to wander.

Fengming had seemed kind and patient. The sort of woman who commanded respect without raising her voice. It was difficult to imagine someone like that ordering the poisoning of a fourteen-year-old girl.

Then again…

Maomao knew better than most that appearances could be deceiving.

The last of the books was aired out soon enough. With her assigned task complete, Maomao wiped the dust from her hands and stepped quietly back into the hallway.

No one stopped her.

Most of the attendants were too busy moving crates and furniture to pay attention to one extra maid wandering the pavilion.

Perfect.

She drifted slowly through the building, observing everything. The Garnet Pavilion was smaller than the Jade Pavilion, but it possessed a comfortable warmth that the larger residence sometimes lacked. Even half-empty, it still felt lived in. Or perhaps it simply hadn’t had enough time yet to feel abandoned. The deeper she walked into the pavilion, the quieter it became.

This section had likely already been cleared. Rooms stood empty, their mats neatly brushed but devoid of furniture.

Maomao slid open one door after another, peering inside each room with idle curiosity. Nothing of particular interest appeared. Until she reached a room filled with jars.

Rows of ceramic containers lined the shelves; each sealed with waxed paper and tied with thin cords.

Maomao stepped closer.

She lifted the lid of one jar just enough to release a faint scent.

Then she leaned down and sniffed lightly.

“What’s this…?” Her eyes narrowed slightly. “Honey.”

“Those jars are all from an apiary Lady Fengming’s family runs.”

Maomao turned.

Another lady in waiting stood in the doorway, arms folded loosely in her sleeves.

She didn’t appear angry.

If anything, she looked mildly amused.

It seemed Maomao’s curiosity had not gone unnoticed.

Maomao replaced the lid carefully. “Interesting,” she said simply.

But her mind was already racing.

Honey. And just yesterday, the honey tea at the gathering.

Very interesting indeed.

~ * ~

The remainder of the day passed painfully slowly.

Maomao had hoped that once her first task was completed she might be able to continue quietly investigating the pavilion.

Instead, she was given chore after chore.

One maid handed her bundles of robes to fold. Another directed her to sweep dust from hallways already half-empty of furniture. Later she was made to help carry small crates of scrolls to the courtyard where they could be sealed for transport.

By mid-afternoon her arms ached and by evening her feet hurt. The Garnet Pavilion was smaller than the Jade Pavilion, but with half the servants already preparing to leave, the remaining attendants had far more work than usual. Which meant Maomao had become very useful.

By the time she finally returned to the Jade Pavilion that night, exhaustion settled over her like a heavy blanket.

Her head barely touched the pillow before sleep claimed her completely.

The following morning was no kinder.

Her assistance at the Garnet Pavilion was apparently no longer required, and she was sent back to the Jade Pavilion shortly after sunrise.

Maomao had barely finished putting away her outer robe when Yinghua arrived.

She was being summoned to the Parlor. By Jinshi himself. Maomao sighed quietly as she walked through the corridors.

Of course.

He hadn’t sent her there simply as extra help. Jinshi never did anything without reason. He wanted information. And apparently she was expected to provide it like some sort of spy.

When she arrived, Jinshi was already seated near the low table, leisurely pouring tea as though he had all the time in the world.

Gaoshun stood nearby, silent as usual.

Jinshi looked up when she entered.

“How was it?”

Maomao stood across from him. “Boring.”

Normally she might have chosen her words more carefully. Today she was far too tired to bother. Jinshi blinked slightly. Then he laughed softly.

“I see.”

He rested his elbow on his leg. “Very well. Let’s change the topic.”

Maomao resisted the urge to sigh again.

“Tell me, apothecary,” he continued, his tone almost casual, “if you had to choose someone capable of communicating with the outside world… who would you pick?”

So that was it. Maomao’s eyes lowered slightly. He had been following the investigation after all. Of course he had.

She could lie. Pretend she had discovered nothing. But something told her that would be pointless, no doubt Jinshi already suspected someone. He was simply waiting to see if she would reach the same conclusion.

Maomao took a slow breath. “Lady Fengming would be the obvious choice, sir.”

She stopped there. If he wanted her reasoning, he could ask for it. He studied her for a moment before nodding

“Good.” That was all he said as he lifted the teacup and took a calm sip. On the table beside him sat a small jar of honey. Maomao’s eyes flicked briefly toward it.

So he already knew. Or at the very least, he had suspected the same person long before she did.

Maomao lowered her gaze again. One question still lingered in her mind. Why? Why would Fengming attempt to poison Consort Lishu? What possible motive could she have?

Maomao had the uncomfortable feeling that the answer would be far more complicated than simple palace jealousy.

Jinshi stood suddenly. Maomao immediately recognised the look in his eyes. Trouble. He picked up the jar of honey.

“This is for you. Good girls should be rewarded.”

He dipped his fingers inside. When he withdrew them, honey dripped slowly down his knuckles. Maomao stared. Absolutely not. Did he expect her to lick that? What kind of absurd game was this man playing now?

If Lady Kan had been present, the situation would have ended very differently. The woman would likely have threatened him with several unpleasant poisons and slapped him hard enough to leave a mark.

Unfortunately right now, she wasn’t Lady Kan.

If he wanted embarrassment he would be disappointed, still she allowed herself a small shudder. “I must decline”

“Don’t be so modest” he took a step towards her, forcing her further back.

“I don’t have a habit of licking honey off of strange men’s fingers, you’ll have to give it to someone else.”  

Even if she didn’t want to admit it, she felt slightly flustered.

Jinshi only gave her a confused stare, not unlike the many she had given in the past “You don’t like sweet things?”

Was he mocking her?

“I prefer spicy”

He smirked slightly, he was clearly enjoying this “but you can still eat this, no?”

He cornered her against the wall; the honey glistened between his fingers. Maomao considered the situation carefully. If she licked the honey, he would probably panic.

The thought was rather amusing.

She wondered if this supposed to be a punishment for sneaking around the garnet pavilion. That must be it.

Wait. The garnet pavilion. Why did this all feel so familiar. Her eyes widened and her lips parted slightly at the revelation.

The honey at the tea party that Lishu couldn’t have, the honey at the garnet pavilion that was from Fengming’s family’s apiary, the attempt on Lishu’s life.

“Huh, so that’s it.” The words came out barely audible. Jinshi only stood there staring at her, but she couldn’t care less, she may have just figured out the thing that has been plaguing her for the past week.

Then she looked up at Jinshi, smiling slightly still cornered against the wall “You’re clever.”

Jinshi looked even more surprised “I am?” it came out as a question.

Maomao only smiled wider “but not clever enough.”

“Just what do you think you’re doing to my lady in waiting!” Gyokuyou’s voice cut through the silence. Her usual gentle face was contorted with anger.

Jinshi nearly jumped, and Maomao almost laughed.

“Lady Gyokuyou!”

“Who gave you any authority to harass her?”

 The eunuch quickly scurried off, it was an amusing sight.

“Xiaomao…” she had almost forgotten Gaoshun was there. She doubted he would have been of any help.

He continued, getting over his earlier hesitation “This was simply a prank Master Jinshi took too far. Could you find it in your heart to forgive him?”

She smirked slightly, she might have felt bad for the man, having to clean up all of his master’s messes, if it wasn’t so funny to watch.

She had witnessed many men try to get close to her, try to touch her in a way that would scream impropriety. Yet he had actually managed to do it, even if it was poor. Thankfully her father wasn’t here to see this, or Jinshi would be dead, noble or not.

“Hmm, since it was just harmless fun, next time you can do the licking for me Master Gaoshun.”

“Licking? That’s too much.” He covered his mouth, his face turning a far paler shade.

She couldn’t help but chuckle. “While you’re here, there is something I need you to organise for me.”

~ * ~

Maomao’s visit to the Diamond Pavilion had been… enlightening.

Who would have thought that Consort Lishu had nearly died from honey as a child?

It was unlikely to be an allergy. Far more likely was the simple fact that infants could not safely consume honey. Their bodies lacked the ability to process certain proteins found within it.

It was something Maomao had learned years ago from her uncle during one of her many visits to the pleasure district. Even so, the story had confirmed her suspicions. By the time she left the Diamond Pavilion, she was almost certain her theory was correct.

It was the afternoon when she arrived at the Garnet Pavilion.

Most of the servants were already gone, and the residence was unusually quiet. Crates and boxes remained stacked along the corridors, waiting to be moved the following day.

Maomao carried a small wooden box in both hands.

Inside were two things.

A bottle of honey. And a small flower.

She knocked lightly and the door slid open cautiously. Fengming stood on the other side though Maomao didn’t give her time to speak.

“I have a letter from Lady Gyokuyou.”

“A letter… from Lady Gyokuyou?” Fengming repeated.

“Yes,” Maomao said calmly. “I was ordered to deliver it directly.”

Fengming hesitated. “I’m afraid Lady Ah-Duo is currently attending a tea party.”

Maomao simply opened the box. The contents were visible immediately.

“I would actually prefer to speak with you,” she said quietly. “Lady Fengming.”

The woman’s expression tightened. After a moment, she stepped aside. “…Please come in.”

She opened the door only slightly, forcing Maomao to slip through sideways before closing it behind her.

Fengming led her to a small dining room. The rest of the pavilion had already been packed away. The walls looked bare, the decorations removed, leaving the space strangely hollow.

They sat across from each other at a low table. Fengming calmly set a small loaf of bread onto a cutting board and began slicing it. She drizzled honey across the pieces before placing them between them.

The smell alone made Maomao slightly nauseous. After this is over… I never want to see honey again.

The small wooden box sat between them. Fengming folded her hands neatly in her lap.

“So,” she said evenly, “what was it you wished to discuss?”

Maomao studied her. “When is Lady Ah-Duo leaving the rear palace?”

Fengming’s eyes narrowed slightly. “You’re a clever one.”

Maomao ignored the comment.

“Lady Ah-Duo gave birth to a prince a year before I was born,” she said quietly. “But complications during the birth forced the physicians to remove her womb.”

The words hung heavily in the air. “A concubine without a womb has little value in the rear palace.”

It was an ugly truth.

“Eventually she would be replaced by a younger consort.”

Fengming’s gaze hardened.

“You have served Lady Ah-Duo since she first entered the palace,” Maomao continued. “You witnessed the birth of the prince. You watched your mistress slowly fade into the background afterward.”

“How do you know that?” Fengming asked sharply.

Maomao shook her head. “That isn’t important.”

She leaned forward slightly. “What is important… is what happened afterward.”

Silence filled the room.

“You cared for the child while your mistress recovered,” Maomao said. “There are many ways an infant can die.”

Her eyes drifted toward the honey-covered bread. “Even now, face powders remain a common cause.”

She looked back up. “But you were careful. You would never have allowed something so careless.”

Maomao opened the box again. She lifted the flower gently between her fingers, studying it.

“There are many poisonous flowers,” she said calmly. “And just like the flowers themselves… their nectar can also be poisonous.”

“I know that,” Fengming snapped.

“Yes,” Maomao replied softly. “You know it now.”

Her gaze sharpened. “But you didn’t know it then.”

Fengming said nothing.

Maomao continued. “Later, Consort Lishu mentioned something to you.”

Her fingers tapped lightly against the honey jar. “That honey can be poisonous to infants.”

Maomao’s voice softened. “You couldn’t tell Lady Ah-Duo the truth. Not after what had happened.”

Fengming’s face remained completely still.

“So you tried to distance the young consort from her,” Maomao said. “When Lishu left the rear palace, you believed the problem had disappeared.”

She paused. “But then she returned.”

The silence in the room grew heavier.

“So you tried to eliminate her.”

Fengming’s expression did not change.

Then, slowly, She smiled. It wasn’t a pleasant smile. Entirely insincere.

“And what is it you want?” she asked softly.

“There is nothing you could give me that I would want.”

“Anything,” Fengming insisted. “Just name it.”

Maomao’s eyes narrowed.

“I know what it’s like to live as a child in constant danger,” she said quietly.

“I know what it’s like to survive attempt after attempt.” Her voice hardened. “You’re a coward.”

Fengming flinched. Maomao reached into her sleeve. She placed a small glass vial on the table. Fengming’s eyes widened.

“I cannot keep what you did to Consort Lishu a secret,” Maomao said. Then she paused. “But I can change the story.”

Fengming stared at her.

“If the motive is altered,” Maomao continued, “Lady Ah-Duo will never learn what really happened.”

The older woman’s composure finally cracked.

“Who… are you?” Fengming whispered.

Her voice trembled as tears streamed down her face.

Maomao stood.

“That,” she said calmly, “is of no importance.”

Chapter Text

The water must have been so cold that night.

That was all Maomao could think about, as she sat on the rear palace wall overlooking what her life used to be.

That evening Fengming had been found dead in a secluded shed. With her they found a will, and a note detailing her attempt on Lishu’s life. The note had stated that she wanted to prevent Ah-Duo from leaving by creating an open spot elsewhere, through Lishu’s untimely death.

Or at least that was what Jinshi had told her, she had denied any involvement only stating that the woman must have had a change of heart.

She had meant what she had said. She was far more used to attempts on her life than most. Whether the attempts came from her fathers enemies or her own she didn’t know. To be fair, she had even survived some from her brother’s and mother’s enemies.

If she was honest, she felt safer in the rear palace than she had in a long time. Even the Verdigris house had never felt this safe. Here she wasn’t the victim. No one was trying to poison her, assault her, harm her. it was a nice change of pace from the outer court.

It was strange. She hadn’t expected to enjoy the rear palace as much as she did. She had only truly used it as a last-ditch effort to hide from her mother’s continuous marriage attempts.

Yet somehow it was fun. She was surrounded by other women her age. They treated her as if she was their equal. Gyokuyou even felt like a patient older sister at times, even if she enjoyed gossiping far too much.

Maomao found herself smiling at the thought.

Her thoughts continued to swirl until they landed on a certain eunuch, the memory of his prank played on replay in her mind.

Men had tried similar things on her in the past. Not so openly of course, but the intentions had been there. She would usually threaten them, perhaps slap them. She would always despise them. It may have been better for business if she forgave them, but she couldn’t help it. her poisonous words and sharp glares earned her many scoldings from her mother.

So why didn’t she feel those same feelings when she thought of Jinshi. He had crossed her boundaries, tried to embarrass her. Yet the feelings that usually came with such advances weren’t there. She had even kept his hairpin, something she had never done before.

Maomao didn’t understand feelings, she was at least that self-aware. Whenever she felt a strange new emotion she’d lock it away to analyse later.

Emotions got her nowhere, logic was far better. After all, she had learnt quickly as a child that crying was useless. It didn’t change the fact her parents were busy, it didn’t change the fact that she was shoved into a carriage in the dead of night. She had learnt quickly to simply stop. To be independent.

She had nursemaids, and of course Xiaolan. But they were only truly there for her needs. Her wants were entirely hers to deal with, and deal with them she did.

Either way her feelings regarding Jinshi were strange. She was sure his attempts to seduce her were useless so why had she acted so flustered earlier.

Perhaps the rear palace was slowly poisoning her, turning her soft. Jinshi was simply her superior, and she had given him too much freedom in her life. After all, the rear palace was a cage. She barely had any freedom to begin with.

The cold air caused her to shiver. The bright moon the only thing preventing the darkness from taking her. it was the only light in the ocean of monsters.

She could only be glad a panic attack hadn’t decided to take her tonight. The idea of crawling into the smallest shape she could muster, whimpering quiet pleads as her eyes shut tight only embarrassed her further.

Her ears suddenly picked up a new noise, her head swivelling to observe the newcomer. She hadn’t expected anyone to be up here. Perhaps it was a eunuch here to pull her down and punish her for being so reckless.

But it wasn’t. No. The figure, it was… Ah-Duo.

The woman was scheduled to leave the next morning. It was rather late, Maomao could only wonder what she was doing here. It seemed her little therapy session was coming to an end.

She made to stand, dusting off her robes and delivering a small bow.

“Lady Ah-Duo. Apologies, I'll leave now.” Her voice came out more tired than she had expected. The week's events must have taken their toll on her.

But the woman only held up a hand, prompting Maomao to stay where she was.

“I must say,” the older woman began, “I didn’t expect anyone to be up here so late. Though perhaps it is fate.”

She held up a bottle “share a drink with me.”

Maomao suddenly smiled wide, the idea of the liquid burning her throat was a welcome thought. Her body suddenly felt very cold.

“If-if you insist.”

The woman only chuckled, pouring a cup before handing it over to Maomao, then taking a seat on the cold stone herself.

Maomao only looked down at her cup, swirling the liquid slightly before taking a sip. The drink wasn’t poisoned, she knew that. But the habit had become so ingrained she couldn’t help it.

Out of all of the high consorts, she knew Ah-Duo the least. Though the woman had attended many of the same events Lady Kan was supposed to attend, the two never interacted. She seemed like a nice woman, seemingly the emperor’s milk sibling. Maomao could only wonder what would become of her once she left the rear palace.

Was she nervous? Or excited? She had been trapped behind these gates for almost two decades. What would that do to a person?

The consort suddenly laughed, and Maomao realised she had been staring rather intensely at her.

“Pretty masculine, aren’t I?”

It made Maomao realise she hadn’t looked at the woman’s garbs. Instead she had been staring at the woman’s face. It felt familiar somehow.

Maomao couldn’t help but agree with her “I feel like you’re giving that impression on purpose.”

She laughed “You’re an honest one.

Then her expression turned far sadder as she looked over the palace walls, the moon still hanging high in the sky.

“After my son left me, my role changed entirely. I became the emperor’s friend, no longer his concubine.”

Maomao wondered what the woman preferred. Had she been forced into the role of a concubine. What was the point of being his friend, if she was still stuck in the same cage as the others.

Maomao could only stay silent. The alcohol she had shared was strong. She most likely would have shared this no matter who she found up here.

Ah-Duo continued “Never in a million years did I think I would be a concubine. I was one only in name.” she brought her arm up to rest on her leg, almost hiding her face behind it.

“I wanted to rid myself of the role as soon as possible. So why did I cling to it for so long?”

Maomao didn’t know. Of course she didn’t. Even if she understood the woman’s life, she couldn’t understand this. Perhaps she had felt pity for the emperor. After all, she may have been one of his only true friends, the others only there to serve.

Maomao watched as she stood up, walking carefully to the edge to look down at the moat below them. She felt as if the woman was about to fall, but she only tipped her bottle, letting the liquid dribble out.

“The water must have been so very cold. It would have chilled her to the bone.”

Maomao could only imagine what the girl would have felt that night, clawing at the walls. Desperate for escape.

“Probably so.”

“What a fool she was.”

“She might have been.” Maomao sighed “but then, aren’t we all slightly fools ourselves?"

That girl. Ah-Duo for staying in the rear palace for so long. And Maomao, for simply surviving.

Ah-Duo simply smiled, looking upwards towards the moon. “We all are.”

~ * ~

Ah-Duo left soon after. Maomao couldn’t blame her, she had an early morning the next day. Maomao had climbed up the wall in hopes to escape the never-ending darkness, but instead she had helped the consort with what seemed like her own version of it.

Maomao decided to follow suit. She didn’t get the luxury of sleeping in, and the consort’s ceremony would be early. She wanted to attend, if only to pay her respects.

The large protrusions were freezing in the night air. Her concentration split between holding on and thinking about her earlier conversation.

The wall was four times her height. She had almost made it down without incident when a strange voice caused her to lose her balance.

Her body hit something hard. She lifted her head carefully, her vision spinning.

At this rate I’ll get permanent brain damage from all the concussions.

She rubbed her head, who was it anyway that had caused her to fall?

“Hey, watch it.” she mumbled.

The ground below began to move upwards, pulling her with it. Wait. This wasn’t the ground; she was in someone’s lap.

The body spoke “Sorry…”

That voice. It sounded so distinct yet different. She spun her head around to catch a glimpse of violet hair.

Her eyes widened. If she wasn’t awake before she definitely was now. “Master Jinshi!”

She didn’t know if he knew it was her.

“Apologies sir-“ She tried to stand up, to pull away from him, but he only grabbed her waist to pull her back down. His legs moved to either side of her, caging her in.

he buried his face in her shoulder “But then I’ll be cold.”

She could feel his face against her neck. It was rather warm, warmer than her at least. She turned her head slightly. He looked pathetic like this.

“Have you been drinking sir?” It was the only explanation.

Jinshi moved his face slightly, no doubt trying to get comfortable. But all Maomao could focus on was his hot breath against her neck.

“So I have…” his mumble was barely audible. “I was invited over to drink. They loaded me up with b-booze and t-took off. When they returned they said they had g-gotten what they needed-d and kicked me out.”

Had he been drinking with Ah-Duo. It would make sense. She seemed like the kind who would kick him out.

Either way they couldn’t stay like this. If anyone stumbled across them, she’d no doubt get beheaded. She tried to pull against his arms, desperately trying to escape. For a drunk man he was surprisingly strong.

“Master Jinshi-“ she turned her head to look at him, but only felt something wet hit her neck as she did.

Is he crying?

“P-please” he hiccupped “stay with me, just for a l-little while longer.”

She had never seen him cry before. It didn’t feel nearly as good as she thought it would. Even so, her struggles to escape soon stopped. She couldn’t leave him like this. She reminded herself that he had broken her fall, perhaps he deserved a little grace.  

Just a little longer. She told herself.

She didn’t know how long she had sat there for, her head resting in her hand. Yet she had found her body starting to relax for the first time in a while, and she felt her head suddenly rest against what she could only assume was Jinshi’s chest.

Just a little longer.

~ * ~

The walk to the palace gates was a short one. Large crowds had gathered around the ceremony, and Maomao had to push her way to the front just to see.

There, in the middle, stood Jinshi and Ah-Duo. For two people who had been drinking, they didn’t seem hungover.

Maomao thought back to last night. She hadn’t meant to, but she had fallen asleep against the man. She didn’t usually let such impropriety seep into her routine, she could only assume it was due to her many sleepless nights with both her kidnapping and the poisoning case.

They had been lucky. Gaoshun had found them some hours later. Waking them both up with light shakes. At first she had been embarrassed that he had found them in such a compromised position, but now she could only sigh with relief. If anyone else had stumbled upon them, the consequences would be much worse.

She wondered if Jinshi remembered. He had seemed rather out of it last night, and she could only hope the alcohol had some effect on his memory.

She looked back to the scene in front of her. just in time to see Ah-Duo place the silver hair ornament in the box Jinshi held.

Though there was something there that made Maomao stop. Now she realised why Ah-Duo had seemed so familiar last night. Here, standing next to the eunuch. She looked just like Master Jinshi.

Suddenly the words Ah-Duo spoke the night before came to the forefront of her mind.

‘After my son left me…’

Maomao placed a hand against her chin. Why hadn’t she simply said her son died. Had she merely been too emotional to utter the words, or had there been something deeper.

Maomao knew that the imperial brother and crown prince had been born at the same time. It was the reason Ah-Duo had lost her womb after all. She could only imagine how that woman had felt after giving birth. She was still so young, and seeing how her child was treated even before she had delivered it must have changed something in her.

Perhaps in her state she simply didn’t know right from wrong. If the babies had been switched, then no one would know the difference, and her child would grow up safer.

It was a far-fetched theory, one that if uttered aloud would surely get her beheaded. Though Maomao knew there was no point in voicing her opinion.

She laughed quietly. The theory amused her. she couldn’t imagine Jinshi being that noble. The sparkly eunuch had all of the ladies swooning, and the moon prince who only ever wore a mask due to his sickly nature. Who would imagine the two would be the same person.

Though perhaps when she returned to the outer court, she would attend one of those functions she always disliked. If only to speak with the moon prince again. He was a most interesting character.

~ * ~

“What do you mean mass layoffs?”

It was only two days later when Maomao had found time to sneak away from her duties and meet with Xiaolan.

The girl had kept to her word, delivering many rumours that had been swirling around the rear palace. Yet none of them seemed to matter. Not when Xiaolan had mentioned a surprising piece of information.

Xiaolan thoughtfully chewed her food, it felt like an eternity for Maomao.

“Mhm. After Fengming was found to be behind the poisoning attempt, they’ve decided to lay off anyone who has a connection to her or her family.”

Xiaolan lowered her voice, leaning closer to Maomao “and apparently, that’s a lot of us.”

Maomao could only sit there frozen. Lahan had written Xiaolan’s birth family on her contract, so they could receive her pay. But for Maomao, he had put a merchant family, one her father owed a favour too.

Fengming’s family owned an apiary, could their families have crossed paths. No, surely not. Yet the thought refused to leave her mind. She would not get fired over something as trivial as this. Especially when she was the one to cause Fengming’s secret to become public.

She stood abruptly, jolting Xiaolan.

“Maomao?”

She ignored the younger girl, walking towards the middle of the courtyard. She needed to find Jinshi. The idea made her nauseous, she hoped he hadn’t remembered the night before.

It had taken her over two hours just to find him. She had run across the rear palace, much against her better judgement. Still, as soon as she caught sight of the eunuch she had screamed his name. it had sounded far to breathless as it came out of her mouth.

“Apothecary.” He sounded surprised. At least it wasn’t embarrassment. Perhaps he didn’t remember last night.

As she reached him, he brought his hands up to her shoulders, almost as if he were about to touch her, yet he refrained. Instead he seemed worried.

“Are you alright?” he asked, “you’re red all over.”

She panted heavily; she wasn’t the most athletic. She tried desperately to compose herself as she usually would, but it didn’t seem to work. She could only get out a quick,

“I need to talk to you sir.”

Jinshi’s face turned serious for a moment. His eyes narrowing as he took in her state. Did he know what she was thinking, if he did she only hoped he wouldn’t make her beg.

“Let’s talk inside.” Was all he said. She could do nothing but follow him back to the matron of the serving women’s office.

~ * ~

The room that once amused her, now only filled her with dread. Would this room be both where her new career started and ended?

Jinshi sat at the desk, far to calm given the situation. He pressed his lips into a thin line.

“This is about the layoffs I assume.”

She nodded, her breathing had evened out since she had arrived, and she began to fill more like herself again.

“Yes sir. I want to know if I’m affected.”

He gestured to the paper on his desk “take a look.”

She almost didn’t want to. Was this just another way to embarrass her, perhaps get back at her for falling on top of him the night before.

She walked up to his desk, taking in the paper he had turned around. She scanned it quickly, her eyes widened. There, written on the paper, was her name. the only one from the Jade pavilion. So it was true.

“I am to be let go then?” she was disappointed at how much her voice wavered.

“Are you?”

Why was he playing mind games at a time like this? She just wanted him to speak the truth, at least then she would know where she stood.

She took a breath. She was still Lady Kan, and Lady Kan would never lose a battle so easily. Whatever happened she wouldn’t beg.

Lady Kan didn’t beg.

She exhaled softly “If you choose to let me stay,” she began “then I will be of use. From laundry to kitchen duty. I will do whatever you ask of me.”

It almost sounded like begging, but she had to try. She knew the second she returned to the estate her mother would have a suitor ready. There were still so many things she wanted to do before that. So many medicines she wanted to try.

Jinshi suddenly stood, and her breathing stopped in anticipation.

“Fine. I’ll let you go.”

Excuse me.

Okay. So perhaps there were two people her tactics wouldn’t work on.

Her mother.

And now… Jinshi?

~ * ~

Maomao took her time to saying her goodbyes, especially Xiaolan.

The girl had looked as if the sky may have collapsed when she first heard the news.

“They can’t just fire you!” the girl had said, while grabbing Maomao’s sleeve as if she might drag her back into employment by force alone.

“They can,” Maomao replied calmly, “and they did.”

Xiaolan’s eyes had watered exclaiming that such a thing shouldn’t have happened after all Maomao had done for them.

Maomao had only looked at her firmly in return. Making her promise to finish her term, and to continue sending letters to Maomao’s family.  

Her walk out of the palace gates was unpleasant. It wasn’t uncommon for ladies in waiting to be dismissed, but for so many on the same day. It had been enough to draw quite a crowd. Some even pointed her out as the food taster from the garden party. She had ignored them of course.

Her plan, however, was not yet complete.

Dismissed servants were often visited afterwards in case further questioning was required. It was a common enough practice that Maomao had already prepared for it.

Jinshi knew of her real address. She had given it to him after her homecoming. She would need to return to the pleasure district in case of a visit.

Besides, with the continuous danger in the pleasure district. This may very well be her last visit for a while.

She walked through an alley way. A modest carriage waited on the other side. A driver stepped down as she approached. She gave a small nod, and he opened the door slightly as she slipped through.

“Sister! How pleasant to see you again.” a man only a year older than her greeted her as she slid inside.

She could only offer a glare in return. After all, it was largely his fault that she had been dismissed in the first place. If only he had chosen a different family…

“Now sister, don’t give me that look.” He adjusted his glasses as she continued to glare “I heard you were kidnapped. How did that go for you?”

She crossed her arms “It was rather interesting,” she said dryly, “though I did inform them they should have kidnapped you instead.”

She gave him a pointed look. “They were searching for the family heirloom after all.”

The man’s smile faltered briefly “now why would you suggest that?”

Maomao stared at him “because you’re the heir.”

Lahan leaned forward suddenly  “You didn’t tell them where it was, did you?”

Maomao frowned. Why was this man so concerned with a piece of metal?

“Of course not. I don’t even know where it is.”

Lahan seemed to relax at that. his shoulders slumped as he leaned back against the wall. Maomao could only roll her eyes.

“I must say sister, I was quite surprised when Father allowed you to remain in the palace.”

She turned her head to face the window; the passing streets were far more pleasant than his face.

“So was I.”

Her fingers tapped lightly against the seat

“I assumed he knew about the poisoning at the garden party.”

She glanced back at him. “I was sure he would force me back to the estate.”

Lahan chuckled. “Yes, I remember when father heard of the incident.”

His eyes gleamed “He found it fascinating.”

Maomao raised an eyebrow.

“I believe he was quite convinced you were responsible.”

She snorted “Well there aren’t many women in the rear palace who enjoy eating poison.”

She suddenly turned back to Lahan “What does mother know?”

Lahan stiffened slightly. “She doesn’t know of the kidnapping.”

She watched him carefully.

“But she does know you were working as a lady in waiting.”

Her glare sharpened and he rose both hands quickly in surrender. “it wasn’t me this time.”

He gave a sheepish smile “She forced it out of father.”

Maomao sighed quietly

Of course she had. Her mother was nothing if not persistent.

“Is father home?”

Lahan shook his head “No. There have been developments with the council.”

He grimaced slightly “he will likely return late tonight.”

Maomao leaned back against the carriage wall. Her father despised those meetings. Unfortunately, they were also the one’s he couldn’t avoid.

The remainder of the trip passed in silence. She would need to convince her mother to allow her to visit the pleasure district. Convincing father would have been difficult. Convincing mother might be even harder. Still, her mother didn’t yet know of the kidnapping.

She could still succeed.

~ * ~

The estate was quiet as she entered. Too quiet. Lady Kan slowed as she stepped into the hall, her gaze drifting over the familiar rooms. Few servants moved across the floors; none though spared her a glance. They must have already been made aware of her return.

She wondered briefly whether her former nursemaid was still somewhere in the estate. Though knowing Lakan, the woman had most likely already been dismissed. Or worse. A shame really, Lady Kan always preferred to deal with such matters herself.

Lahan followed close behind her as she strode across the lavish home, her footsteps echoing against the walls. Her destination was obvious. The Parlor.

The doors slid open without ceremony. And there she was. Fengxian sat exactly where Lady Kan expected. She took in her appearance. The woman had not changed during her absence.

Her long crimson robes spilled over the cushions and gold hair ornaments glowed in the lantern light. Her mother had always dressed elegantly. But today her appearance seemed more deliberate. Had she attended an event earlier?

Fengxian’s eyes slowly lifted at the intrusion as if she were evaluating Lady Kan. Then she gestured calmly to the sofa across from her. She crossed the room and sat. A Go board rested between them, yet the grid remained empty. It seemed her mother did not intend to play.

“Daughter” Fengxian said after a moment “how have you been?”

It was strange Lady Kan thought, how her mother seemed to deflect the obvious. She took a breath, choosing her words carefully.

“I’ve been well, mother. It's been some time hasn’t it.”

Her mother nodded slowly. A Go stone rotated in a slow circle between her fingers. Her mother and father were more alike than they would admit.

“Lahan informed me of your… little poisoning incident.” Fengxian said lightly “the outer court has been speaking of it for days. The lady in waiting who drank poison and survived.”

Of course they had. Gossip in the outer court could linger for months.

Lady Kan pursed her lips. “I did not expected Lady Gyokuyou to be poisoned.” she replied “But the matter has been resolved. The woman responsible is dead.”

Her mother stared at her. “Yes,” she said eventually. “And yet, you will not be returning.”

Lady Kan’s expression remained calm “No.”

She had already come to terms with the reality. There was little point in discussing it further.

Fengxian lifted a teacup and took a small sip. The scent of honey drifted across the room. Lady Kan fought the urge to grimace.

“Your father met with the emperor yesterday.”

Lady Kan paused. It wasn’t uncommon for her father to meet with the emperor; in fact it was expected. Yet her mother would not tell her without reason.

“There is a court gathering two nights from now. The new pure consort will be presented. The emperor has invited the entirety of the La Clan.”

She paused “Lady Kan” she added deliberately “is expected to attend.”

Lady Kan could hardly refuse, nor would she want to. If she agreed now, her mother would be far more inclined to grant her own request.

“Understandable” Then she met her mother’s gaze directly “there is something I wanted to speak to you about, mother.”

For the first time, a faint tension appeared in Fengxian’s posture.

“And what would that be, daughter.”

Lady Kan crossed her legs, placing her hands in her lap. Her posture perfectly relaxed. “During my time in the rear palace, I became acquainted with the manager of the rear palace.”

Her mother raised an eyebrow “I am aware.”

Of course she was.

Lady Kan continued “He is under the impression that the family listed on the my service contract were my kidnappers.”

Fengxian’s expression remained neutral.

“And the Verdigris House is my true home.”

A faint smile appeared on her mother’s lips “That is quite an outlandish story.”

“It was the most convenient option at the time.”

She paused.

“As you know, mother, it is not uncommon for palace officials to visit the residences of former maids if inconsistencies appear in their records.”

Her mother gave her a pointed look. “Your point, daughter.”

Lady Kan met her gaze “After the banquet, I would like permission to visit the pleasure district.”

The room went quiet. Her mother’s eyes narrowed as she studied her daughter. “You are concerned that this ‘manager’ may attempt to verify your story?”

“Yes” Lady Kan replied slowly.

“And you believe this may convince him?”

“It would strengthen the narrative.”

Fengxian’s fingers tapped lightly on her robes “you have always enjoyed complicated lies.” She murmured quietly.

Lady Kan said nothing, her mother’s gaze only sharpened further.

“There is something else.”

Lady Kan tilted her head “what do you mean?”

“you rarely ask permission unless you already intend to go through with it.” her mother’s lip curved slightly “so tell me, daughter, what are you really planning?”

Lady Kan simply shrugged “ensuring the stability of my story seems prudent.”

Fengxian continued to studying her, before exhaling softly. “You may visit.”

Lady Kan didn’t move.

“On one condition. You will behave appropriately at the banquet.”

Lady Kan understand perfectly what her mother was implying. Do not embarrass the family. Do not disrupt court politics. And do not expose yourself.

Lady Kan inclined her head “Of course, mother.”

~ * ~

Preparing for the banquet proved more troublesome than Lady Kan had expected.

Without Xiaolan hovering anxiously nearby, the process felt strangely cumbersome. Lady Kan had dressed herself countless times before, but rarely in garments quite this excessive.

Layers upon layers of silk weighed down her shoulders.

Her mother had chosen the colour personally.

Red.

Not a subtle red either, but a brilliant, almost aggressive shade that commanded attention the moment one entered a room.

The robes flowed heavily from her shoulders, embroidered with intricate gold thread that shimmered whenever she moved. Golden hairpins had been placed carefully throughout her dark hair, each ornament reflecting the light.

It was… excessive. And entirely deliberate. Her mother had dressed her like a warning flare and anyone with eyes would know immediately which clan she belonged to. Which meant Lady Kan was not meant to wander. Not tonight.

She lifted the vibrant red veil and tied it gently across the lower half of her face. Her makeup was slightly heavier than usual, emphasizing the sharpness of her eyes.

She was making the final adjustments to her sleeves when she heard a knock.

The door slid open immediately afterward.

Lady Kan’s glare sharpened.

“Knocking serves little purpose if you refuse to wait for a response, Lahan.”

Lahan leaned casually against the doorway, entirely unbothered.

“Are you finished, sister? The carriage is waiting.”

Lady Kan turned slowly toward him. The smug curve of his lips did not escape her notice.

“You chose the robes,” she said flatly.

Lahan placed a hand over his chest in mock offense. “I would never interfere with Mother’s fashion choices.”

“Liar.”

His grin widened.

“But you do look quite terrifying tonight,” he added thoughtfully. “I imagine the new consort will be quite jealous.”

Lady Kan ignored him.

“Let’s go.”

The carriage ride was short. The banquet hall soon appeared ahead, rows of lanterns glowed around the entrance. It was one of the larger ceremonial halls used for court gatherings.

The sound of voices spilled from the open doors as servants directed the guests inside. As Lady Kan stepped down from the carriage, several nearby nobles glanced her way. Red silk flowed around her as she walked. The whispers began almost immediately. She ignored them.

Lady Kan wondered if she would meet this new consort. Loulan was her name, she had been told. The daughter of Prime Minister Shishou. She couldn’t help but think it was strange. She had met Shishou multiple times, but never once had she met his daughter. Perhaps she was even more reserved than Lady Kan.

The banquet hall stretched wide and tall, incense flowing upwards in the corners of the room. Flowers decorated the hall, varieties that matched the season. Soft music travelled from the far end of the hall where musicians sat behind screens.

Lady Kan stepped into the crowd, eyes followed her. she couldn’t fault them. Red silk tended to attract attention.

She allowed her gaze to wander the hall as she positioned herself to listen to multiple conversations at once. From this angle she could faintly hear a group of ministers discussing a missing report. She briefly wondered if it were connected to the ministers she had overheard at the garden party.

An interesting sight soon caught her attention from across the room. Her father was speaking to Shishou, and beside him was a woman dressed in rich purple robes.

Loulan.

Lady Kan’s lips curved upwards beneath her veil.

Perfect.

She approached slowly, her robes brushing the floor as she moved. The conversation paused momentarily as she arrived.

Lakan’s face seemed to brighten at her arrival.

“Daughter!” he greeted her.

“Father.” She bowed to him, keeping her face passive. She turned to the Shishou, bowing to him as well.

“Minister Shishou. It is an honour to see you again.”

Shishou chuckled “Lady Kan.”

His voice carried the authority of a man accustomed to power. “You have grown more elegant since our last meeting.”

He suddenly gestured to the woman beside him “allow me to introduce my daughter.”

Lady Kan bowed respectfully “Lady Loulan.”

Loulan only nodded “Lady Kan.” Her voice was soft, almost distinct.

Lady Kan studied her carefully. She was dressed in deep purple robes. Gold hairpins decorated her dark hair. But it was her makeup that drew Lady Kan’s attention. It was heavy. Unnaturally so. The white powder too thick, her red lips contrasted against her pale skin.

Lady Kan tilted her head “Your robes are beautiful.”

Loulan blinked slowly “They were chosen for the occasion.”

Then her gaze drifted to Lady Kan’s veil. “You hide your face.”

“Only partially.”

Loulan’s eyes narrowed “a curious choice for a noble lady.”

Shishou only laughed at the exchange “Careful, Loulan,” he said, “Lady Kan has always been clever.”

“yes,” she murmured “I can see that.”

The conversation continued politely. Lady Kan stood beside her father, smiling when appropriate, nodding at political remarks, and laughing softly at the occasional joke.

But her eyes continued to move. Observing. Cataloguing.

And then… She spotted him at the far edge of the hall. Trying so very hard to remain unnoticed. Jinshi.

He stood near the rear wall, partially hidden beside a carved pillar. Even from a distance Lady Kan could see the faint slump in his shoulders. The crease between his brows.

She should have expected he’d be here. The banquet was in honour of a new high consort after all. Lady Kan’s lips turned downward beneath her veil. For a moment irritation stirred in her chest. She had been dismissed like some kind of inconvenience. Of course he would move on so quickly.

She turned back to her father to excuse herself, and he waved her off without hesitation.

The man caught sight of her as she approached, his posture seemed to straighten, and the familiar honeyed smile appeared instantly. But this time, it looked slightly strained.

He bowed as she approached, it felt strange.

“I don’t believe we have met.” His voice made her want to shiver, “you must be Lady Kan.”

“I am.” She pitched her voice slightly higher than usual.

She inclined her head “And you are Master Jinshi, the manager of the rear palace.”

He smiled. “I am honoured that you know my name.”

His gaze travelled to her robes. “I must say, my lady… you look quite exquisite this evening.”

Lady Kan felt a twitch of annoyance.

“Your robes highlight your eyes beautifully.”

She had heard the tone before. When he used it on other concubines.

“You’re too kind.”

Then she tilted her head. “Tell me, Master Jinshi… do you enjoy managing the rear palace?”

The question seemed to catch him off guard, his eyes widening briefly before returning

“Of course.” He said rather quickly. “It is an interesting responsibility.”

He smiled again. “And what of you, Lady Kan? Do you enjoy life in the outer court?”

It was a poor deflection, but she respected it nonetheless.

She turned, letting her gaze drift across the room, careful that her veil remained in place. “Why wouldn’t I? After all, the courts offer so many secrets.”

She didn’t stay to see his reaction; he had already given her everything she needed.  

~ * ~

Jinshi slowly swirled the amber liquid in his cup, watching the surface ripple as the lantern light reflected against it. The alcohol burned slightly when he took a sip, but he hardly noticed.

His eyes followed Lady Kan as she made her exit across the hall.

Her red robes moved like flowing fire through the crowd, drawing the attention of nearly everyone she passed. Gold threads glimmered along the fabric, catching the lanternlight with each step she took. Even with the veil covering the lower half of her face, she was impossible to ignore.

He had only met her once before. That day he had not been Jinshi. He had been the Moon Prince.

Even then she had been unusual.

Most women either stared too boldly or avoided his gaze entirely. Lady Kan had done neither. Her face had remained almost unnervingly passive, her eyes calm and observant.

He wondered now if his appearance had affected her at all. Or if she was simply better than most at hiding it. Jinshi sighed quietly and leaned back slightly against the carved pillar behind him.

He had not wanted to attend tonight’s banquet.

In fact, he had nearly begged the Emperor to allow him to remain behind at the palace. Normally he could tolerate these gatherings well enough, but tonight the thought of smiling endlessly at ministers and noblewomen had felt exhausting.

It had been two days since the apothecary had left the rear palace. Two days. And yet the palace already felt strangely empty. He had not expected her absence to affect him this much.

The Jade Pavilion in particular had become unbearable. Normally he visited with a strange sense of anticipation, wondering what strange discovery that girl might present to him that day. Instead he now avoided the pavilion whenever possible, limiting his visits to brief conversations with Lady Gyokuyou about official matters.

Even then, the room felt wrong without the quiet presence of the apothecary lurking somewhere nearby.

Jinshi rubbed lightly at his temple.

He had spent most of the evening fulfilling the usual obligations. Polite conversations with ministers. Checking on the new consort, Lady Loulan, to ensure she was settling comfortably. Offering compliments to nobles he barely remembered meeting. All tedious but necessary tasks.

Once those duties were finished, he had planned to remain quietly in the background until the banquet ended. That plan had lasted approximately fifteen minutes.

Lady Kan had appeared before him so suddenly that he hadn’t even noticed her approaching. One moment he had been scanning the room. The next she had been standing directly in front of him. He had barely managed to arrange his usual smile before introducing himself.

His fingers tightened slightly around the cup. Her eyes had been the most unsettling part. Throughout their conversation she had watched him closely. They didn’t admire, nor look nervous. Instead they studied him.

As if she were examining a curious specimen, and her question had caught him completely off guard.

Do you enjoy managing the rear palace?

Jinshi frowned faintly at the memory. It was such a strange question. Few people ever asked him about his role so directly. Most preferred to flatter him or complain about palace gossip.

He had answered quickly, of course, redirecting the conversation almost immediately. But her response lingered in his thoughts.

The courts offer many interesting secrets.

At the time she had said it while looking across the room rather than at him. Almost as if she were speaking to herself. Was she trying to tell him something? Or had he simply imagined the hidden meaning?

Jinshi exhaled slowly and tipped back the remainder of his drink.

Frankly, he was too tired to worry about riddles tonight. There were already far too many obligations awaiting him.

Several court gatherings in the coming weeks. Meetings with visiting officials.

And, most annoyingly, an upcoming party hosted by a particularly young nobleman who seemed determined to prove his influence through extravagant entertainment.

Jinshi already suspected the evening would be exhausting.

He sighed and scanned the hall again.

Lady Kan had not yet left the banquet. Instead she moved through the crowd with deliberate ease. She approached one group of officials, exchanged a few polite words, then excused herself almost immediately. Moments later she joined another conversation across the room.

It almost looked as if she were collecting information. Jinshi tilted his head slightly as he observed her. Every now and then her eyes would shift across the hall, briefly assessing the room before moving on again.

Curious.

Most nobles spent these gatherings gossiping aimlessly. Lady Kan moved like someone searching for something. His gaze followed the red fabric of her sleeves as she laughed lightly at something a minister said.

The sound did not quite reach her eyes. Jinshi hummed thoughtfully to himself.

That woman…

was quite interesting.