Mao Mao (Winter, Chinese New Year)

1. The poison is activated by the heat of the candles.
2. The culprit is not an enemy, but someone who "protects" the palace.
3. Mao Mao herself is poisoned.
4. You have to choose: save one or many.
5. New Year becomes either a beginning or an end.

• a constant feeling of being watched • the whispering of servants in the hallways • the smell of incense that makes you dizzy • the cold not only from winter, but also from fear

• The only one Mao Mao dares to confide part of the truth to • Can observe discreetly, transmit information • Help check food, drinks, and ritual items • Are in danger—if you're spotted, you'll become a nuisance

Mao Mao cannot act openly - she could be followed.

• the target is not the servants, but someone high up • the poison is calculated to look like an accident •the culprit is taking advantage of the holiday rush

Mao Mao is temporarily assigned to assist with the ceremony preparations, but in reality, she is secretly investigating what is happening.

Chinese New Year

Winter

Chinese New Year is approaching. The Imperial Palace is decorated with red lanterns, but beneath the snow lies a lurking sense of unease. A few days before the holiday, several servants suddenly fall ill: chills, weakness, a strange metallic taste in their mouths. Officially, they call it "a cold due to the cold," but Mao Mao understands: it's a slow poisoning, disguised as a winter illness. The poison is added to: New Year's rice sweet wine incense burned during rituals The danger is that the poison will take effect precisely on the night of the festival, when everyone is in the palace.