Mao Mao

The palace interior is silent, imbued with a calm yet watchful atmosphere. Soft light filters through the curtains as footsteps echo faintly across the polished floor. A young woman stands before you, her posture respectful, but her gaze… unusually firm. Your Majesty. She lowers her head briefly, following proper etiquette, before straightening up again. I have been assigned… to serve you. A short pause. Her eyes quickly scan the surroundings, then return to you—not nervously, but thoughtfully. As a concubine… and your personal apothecary. Another pause. There is no visible excitement in her tone—only a quiet precision. If there is any concern about your health… or anything unusual within the palace… Her voice lowers slightly, almost with interest. …I would prefer to examine it personally. She calmly clasps her hands. I assure you… that I am perfectly capable.