Imperial Palace

3. True Form (Imperial Brother): On the rare occasions when he removes his servant's mask, Renshi dons the traditional robes of the ruling dynasty—heavy, richly embroidered robes in yellow, red, or deep black, available only to members of the imperial family, richly embroidered with gold thread.

Because he hides his true status as the Crown Prince under the guise of Chief Eunuch, his wardrobe is divided into two main styles:

1. The image of the "Chief Eunuch" of the Inner Palace: In this guise, Renshi appears to most of the palace's inhabitants. His attire emphasizes his unearthly, androgynous beauty and his high status as a steward: Luxurious Robe: He most often wears long, loose silk robes in exquisite shades of violet, lavender, or soft lilac. The fabric shimmers in the light and is often adorned with subtle, elegant patterns. Wide Sleeves: Unlike the practical sleeves of his bodyguards, Renshi's sleeves are very wide and flowing, in the traditional Chinese style for high nobility. Collar: Under the purple outer robe, a neat, multi-layered collar is always visible - usually white and contrasting dark purple or blue. Belt: Belted with a wide, stiff, decorative belt with precious overlays, into which he often elegantly folds his hands. Hairstyle: Renshi's hair is styled into a high, elaborate hairstyle, topped with a luxurious purple or gold hairpin (guan) with long silk ribbons hanging down her back.
2. The strict image of a military official (Outer Court): When Renshi is engaged in state affairs outside the women's quarters of the palace, he changes into the uniform of a high-ranking official: Dark tones: Light lilac silks give way to strict dark blue, black or deep burgundy robes. Practical cut: The sleeves become narrower, fitted, and are secured at the wrists with tight cuffs, which makes the outfit similar to the Gaoshun and Basen uniforms. Headdress: Instead of an open hairstyle and a precious hairpin, he wears the official black headdress of officials (futou), which completely covers the hair.

Personality. Jinshi is a complex, multifaceted character, combining the guise of an impeccable courtier, the keen intellect of a politician, and an unexpectedly childlike spontaneity. Key character traits. A master of masks and manipulation, Jinshi is a virtuoso in the art of courtly gamesmanship: he knows how to be charming, courteous, and "convenient" for everyone, but at the same time, he always pursues his own goals. His outward softness is a tool of influence. A keen mind and keen observation. He is well versed in palace intrigue, able to calculate moves ahead and discern people's hidden motives. This is why he values ​​Maomao so much: her straightforwardness and deduction provide him with "clean" data in a world full of lies. Using beauty as a resource. Jinshi is aware of the power of his appearance and consciously uses it as leverage or a way to distract attention. However, he does not consider this a "real" achievement and sometimes experiences self-doubt due to the feeling that he is perceived only as a pretty face. Childishness and curiosity. Among trusted people (Suiren, Gaoshun, Maomao), Jinxi drops his mask and behaves almost childishly: he can be capricious, curious, impatient, asking for "straightforward answers" and genuinely rejoicing at solving a mystery. A sense of duty and responsibility. Despite his outward frivolity, Jinxi is deeply aware of the gravity of his position and the obligations it entails. He is willing to take risks, protect those dear to him, and make difficult decisions when necessary. Vulnerability and a need for recognition. Behind the façade of confidence lies a man who wants to be appreciated not for his beauty, but for his intelligence and actions. His interest in Mao Mao is largely dictated by the fact that she sees him as an individual, not a "beautiful eunuch." An ironic attitude towards himself. Jinshi is able to notice the absurdity of his own situation and even joke about it - especially in dialogues with Maomao, where his pathos is regularly shattered by her pragmatism.

Jinshi is a young man, approximately 181 cm tall, whose striking beauty has become one of his main calling cards. His dark purple hair and pinkish-lilac eyes lend an even more ethereal, almost ethereal aesthetic to his appearance. Jinshi has refined, feminine features, which often leads him to be mistaken for a woman; Maomao even jokes that if he were made up, he could provoke a national crisis. His body, however, is strong and toned: his hands are well-groomed but calloused from swordplay, and his posture belies his military and courtly training. A distinctive detail of his appearance is his hairstyle: half of his hair is pulled back into a neat bun and tied with a cloth, with loose strands softly framing his face. Jinshi dresses like a high-ranking courtier: his attire is expensive but not overly ornate, in the spirit of traditional official attire. It features noble hues (deep blue, dark green, black with gold trim), simple lines, and status details like embroidered patterns and silk sashes. Even in his role as a "eunuch," he maintains an aura of power and grace.

Personality. Maomao is a pragmatic, observant, and extremely intelligent woman, whose worldview was shaped by the harsh conditions of the Red Light District. Her key character traits include: an insatiable curiosity and a passion for knowledge. Maomao loves understanding herbs, poisons, and medicines more than anything else. She is drawn to dangerous substances not out of a desire for self-destruction, but out of scientific curiosity: it is important for her to understand how they work and learn how to use them. She often tests substances on herself, developing a high tolerance for poisons and alcohol. Calculation and self-preservation instinct. Maomao is well aware of her vulnerable position and tries to keep a low profile, avoid making enemies, and avoid becoming a pawn in other people's games. She deliberately keeps a low profile and conceals her abilities to avoid being used as a tool. A keen mind and deductive powers. She is capable of piecing together disparate details in minutes, recognizing lies, identifying a poisoner, or understanding the motives of those involved in a plot. Maomao doesn't seek fame: she helps when it aligns with her interests or when she can't stand aside. She is straightforward and has an inner integrity. She dislikes formality, speaks frankly, and isn't afraid to appear rude if the situation calls for it. Her bluntness isn't cruel, but a way to draw boundaries and protect herself and those she cares about. Compassion and a sense of justice. Despite her outward detachment, Maomao is not indifferent to the pain of others. She helps not for praise, but because she can't help it: she heals, warns, and saves, even if it puts her at risk. She is skeptical and independent. Charm and status have little effect on her: for example, she calmly accepts Jinshi and doesn't succumb to his charms, which work on most court ladies. She trusts only facts and her own experience. She has a dry sense of humor and irony. In her inner monologues, Maomao often comments on events with irony, sometimes almost cynically, but behind this lies an observant spirit.

Maomao is an "informal" physician. Although Maomao is not formally listed as a palace physician, she becomes the primary specialist in complex and unusual cases. Raised in the pleasure quarter as the daughter of an apothecary, she learned from childhood to understand herbs, poisons, toxicology, and practical medicine—much closer to "field" science than to the academic tradition. Jinshi recruits her to investigate poisonings and strange illnesses when official physicians are stumped. Her strength lies in her observation skills, experimental approach, and ability to notice details that others ignore. She operates on the edge of what is permitted: her methods do not always conform to palace norms, and her interference in harem affairs can be seen as impertinent. Therefore, her involvement is kept relatively secret, and the results are often attributed to others or presented as a "joint conclusion." Appearance. Maomao is a petite woman of short stature (approximately 153 cm) with a slight build. Her distinctive feature is her dark green hair, usually pulled back and tied with a light blue ribbon; two strands hang loosely around her face and are adorned with small red and sky-blue beads. Her eyes are an iridescent blue (the shade may vary slightly in different adaptations). Maomao deliberately paints freckles on her face using a mixture of clay and oil: she does this to appear less attractive and to avoid attracting unwanted male attention—it helps her maintain her security and independence. Her left arm and forearm are covered in scars—results of her own experiments with poisons and medicines. A bandage can often be seen on her left arm or forearm, concealing some of the injuries. Maomao dresses simply and practically. Her typical attire is an aokun (a type of hanfu): a light green overgown over a white inner robe with a two-tone green collar, a long burgundy skirt, and simple dark green ballet flats. She avoids expensive jewelry and elaborate makeup.

Personality. Gaoshun is Kanae's support and "balancing factor." His character is built on reliability and internal discipline. Key Traits: Devotion and Loyalty. He is sincerely devoted to Kanae, not out of blind obedience, but out of a sense of duty and personal affection: he has essentially raised Kanae since childhood and treats him almost like a father. Restrained and calm. Gaoshun rarely loses his composure and almost never raises his voice. Even in tense situations, he remains cool and tries to act rationally. Practicality and hard work. He takes on the routine tasks that Kanae either dislikes or doesn't have time to do: checking reports, ensuring orders are carried out, organizing security, overseeing logistics. For him, results are more important than fame. Modesty. Gaoshun doesn't seek recognition and dislikes being the center of attention. He prefers to work in the shadows and believes that order and security are paramount. A sense of responsibility. He views his work as a mission: if something goes wrong, he blames himself first and tries to rectify the situation immediately. Inner kindness. Despite his outward sternness, Gaoshun is caring and attentive to those around him. He tries to protect not only Kanae, but also other trusted people (including Suiren and even Maomao, when appropriate). Family and vulnerability. He has a wife and children, and he is quite dependent on his domineering spouse—this detail adds humanity to him and shows that even the most trusted assistant is not without weaknesses and domestic concerns. Role in the palace. Kanae's right hand. Gaoshun takes on the administrative and operational aspects of the work: he organizes the execution of orders, ensures that assignments are carried out accurately and on time, and insures Kanae against mistakes. The bridge between "high politics" and the implementers. While Kanae formulates strategy and plays the subtle game, Gaoshun is responsible for ensuring that this strategy actually works in practice—from assigning personnel to verifying reports.

Gaoshun is Kanae Kamado's bodyguard. A mature man with a strong build, he appears older than Kanae and gives the impression of a man accustomed to hard work and responsibility. His features are stern. He has a discreet yet distinctive appearance: a straight nose, a calm gaze, and neat, not overly expressive features that emphasize his composure. He wears the traditional attire of an official. He wears understated, practical clothes without frills—usually dark gray, brown, or navy blue, with minimal jewelry. This emphasizes his role as an assistant, not a public figure. Hairstyle and details. His hair is pulled back into a strict bun, without any decorative elements; sometimes you can see signs of fatigue (light shadows under his eyes, a slightly furrowed brow)—he works hard. Cloth. The attire of Gaoshun, a high-ranking eunuch official of the imperial palace. His everyday and ceremonial attire consists of the following details: Official Robe: A long, formal robe in dark shades (in anime, most often dark blue, black, or deep purple). The robe wraps around the waist, fastens on the right side as usual, and has relatively narrow sleeves, practical for work and combat, which are cuffed at the wrists. Light collar and underdress: From under the outer robe, the white or light gray double collar of the undershirt always neatly protrudes. Waist Belt: A thick, wide belt that signifies status, often worn by officials of his level to carry palace badges, passes, or small concealed weapons. Shoulder cape (pelerine): An important element of his ceremonial and working uniform in the palace is a thick blue cape that is tied in front with a large, voluminous knot with long ribbons. Headdress (futou): On his head, Gaoshun always wears the traditional black high cap of Chinese officials and servants, which completely covers his hair. His clothes always look strict and neat.

Personality and character. Behind the stern facade of a devoted soldier lies an inexperienced and easily embarrassed young man. Seriousness and diligence: He is incredibly devoted to his work and to Takeo. Basen strives to emulate his father in everything, demonstrating strictness and professionalism, but he still lacks his father's phlegmatic wisdom. Rudeness in communication: It is well known that Basen behaves rather abruptly and rudely in communication. Awkwardness with women: All his feigned rudeness stems from a simple inability to communicate with the opposite sex. Basen grew up in a family with an overbearing mother and older sister, which makes him shy around women, easily loses his temper, or blushes when in close contact. Naivety and inattention: Despite his keen mind in military matters, he is extremely slow-witted in everyday life. Hidden Caring: Beneath the tough armor lies a kind heart. Fun fact: Basen has a beloved pet duck named Jofu. He becomes incredibly aggressive and goes into "defender mode" if Maomao or anyone in his family jokingly suggests making the bird for dinner.

Basen is the youngest son of a high-ranking official of Gaoshun, a military officer and Takeo's loyal bodyguard. Appearance. Basen is an attractive and physically fit young man of 19 years old. Build: Tall (around 170 cm) and with a strong, muscular build of a warrior. Face and Hair: He has short, straight black hair with two distinctive long strands framing his face. His eyes are sharp and brown or golden-amber. Facial Expressions: In public, he almost always wears a frowning, gloomy, or overly serious expression, which is why he looks very similar to his father, Gaoshun. Cloth. Basen's attire fully reflects his status as a military official and Takeo's personal bodyguard. His everyday attire is designed in a strict, traditional Chinese style and consists of the following key details: Official's Military Robe: Basen wears a long, closed robe of a rich, dark blue. Unlike the loose robes of courtiers, his robe has a more practical, fitted cut that allows for unrestricted movement during battle. Collar: The robe is buttoned with a wrap-around closure on the right side, forming a tight collar, from under which the white and ocher-brown (mustard) collars of the undershirts neatly protrude. Belt: A wide terracotta-red fabric sash is tied around the waist, the ends of which hang loosely in front. Headdress (futou): Basen always wears a black, high servant's hat, which tightly covers the crown of the head and hair, and two long black ribbons from it descend along the back and shoulders. Footwear: For footwear, he wears practical, high black leather boots designed for horse riding and fast movement. His wardrobe is devoid of excessive decoration, embroidery and silk, which emphasizes his straightforward, stern character and readiness to enter into battle at any moment.

Gwen (Gwen) is dressed in traditional court attire, befitting his status as a eunuch physician in the Inner Palace. His attire reflects both his professional affiliation and the specifics of his position at court.

Description of clothing

Gwen wears a long robe or dressing gown, typical of court physicians of the era in which he serves. The garment is made of fabrics appropriate to court etiquette—usually silk or other expensive materials. The color of the garment can vary, but often such robes are muted tones (such as beige, cream, or light brown), emphasizing the status of an official rather than a military leader.

The robe might feature symbolic patterns or embroidery associated with medicine or the imperial court. Sometimes such garments were complemented by a belt or sash, which accentuated the waist and added formality to the look.

Gwen's shoes are traditional Chinese shoes or boots, appropriate for court style.

He wears his hair in a bun or braid, as is typical for men at court. He used to have a small mustache, but later shaved it off.

Features of the image

• Emphasis on the eunuch's status. Although castration doesn't directly affect his clothing, Gwen's demeanor and mannerisms (his feminine voice, hospitality, and love of food) are visually emphasized by his attire—he looks more like a "mistress of a merchant's house" than a warrior or high-ranking official.
• Lack of flashy details. Unlike some other courtiers, Gwen doesn't wear flashy accessories or jewelry, reflecting his modesty and lack of self-confidence.
• Practical. Although the clothes appear formal, they do not restrict movement, as Gwen often moves around the palace and examines patients.

Gwen is the eunuch physician of the Inner Palace.

Who is he? Gwen is the officially recognized physician, responsible for the health of the concubines and other inhabitants of the female half of the palace. As a eunuch, he is allowed into the harem, where male physicians are not permitted, and therefore occupies a unique (and very vulnerable) position: he bears enormous responsibility, but is also constantly under close surveillance and suspicion.

Character:

Gwen strictly adheres to the classical canons of traditional medicine, relying on standard methods such as pulse diagnosis and proven recipes, and is wary of unconventional approaches. A kind soul, but an insecure professional. Gwen isn't malicious or self-serving—he genuinely wants to help, but his insecurity, fear of making mistakes, and reliance on authoritative texts prevent him from noticing subtle details (such as signs of poisoning).

• Fearful and hasty. He easily loses his cool in stressful situations, worries about possible accusations, and often acts to "save himself" rather than to get to the truth.

Hanako Kamado (the fourth-eldest child in the Kamado family, younger sister of Kanae, Nezuko, and Takeo) is a petite girl with pale skin. She is 9 years old, 130 cm tall, and weighs 30 kg. She has shoulder-length black hair. Her eyes are dark burgundy, framed by thick eyelashes. Personality: deep affection for her older brother (Kanae); childish spontaneity and curiosity; persistence. Cloth. Her costume emphasizes her youthful, almost childish age and innocence. The interior design and silhouette of her dress are designed with an emphasis on sweet, girly details. A delicate color palette: Her wardrobe is built around a combination of white, soft pink, and pastel purple (lavender). These shades symbolize her modesty, purity, and immaturity compared to her other favorites. Girlish Ruffles and Frills: Unlike the strict canonical hanfu, Hanako's dress is complemented by multi-layered frills and ruffled headbands along the edges of the collar and sleeves, which makes the outfit look like a doll's dress. Traditional Hanfu Cut: The basic outfit consists of a lightweight over-jacket with wide sleeves, wrapped at the chest, and a long, high-waisted skirt, fastened under the chest. Floral Belt: Hanako's waist is accentuated by a wide pink or purple belt, often decorated with a neat bow or fabric flowers. Scarf-stole: The look is completed by a long, translucent light pink scarf, flowing freely over her shoulders and arms. Accessories and parts. Hanako doesn't wear heavy gold crowns. Her hair is adorned with delicate pink flowers (hairpins) and thin ribbons, and her jewelry consists of simple earrings and a delicate necklace.

Takeo Kamado (the third-eldest child in the Kamado family, younger brother of Kanae and Nezuko) is a short boy with pale skin. He is almost identical to Kanae in appearance. He is 12 years old, 153 cm tall, and weighs 51 kg. He has slightly tousled black hair with red tips, combed back. His eyes are dark maroon. Personality: cheeky; ironic; conceals concern. Cloth. Luxurious robe: He most often wears long, loose silk robes in exquisite red, burgundy, or soft red hues. The fabric shimmers in the light and is often adorned with subtle, elegant patterns. Wide Sleeves: Unlike the practical sleeves of his bodyguards, Takeo's sleeves are very wide and flowing, in the traditional Chinese style for high nobility. Collar: Under the burgundy outer robe, a neat multi-layered collar is always visible - usually white and contrasting dark red or burgundy. Belt: Belted with a wide, stiff, decorative belt with precious overlays, into which he often elegantly folds his hands. True Form (Imperial Prince): On the rare occasions when he removes his servant's mask, Takeo dons the traditional robes of the ruling dynasty—heavy, richly embroidered robes in yellow, red, or deep black, available only to members of the imperial family, richly embroidered with gold thread.

Nezuko Kamado (the second-eldest child in the Kamado family, Kanae's younger sister) is a short girl with fair skin. She is 14 years old, stands 153 cm tall, and weighs 46 kg. She has long, wavy black hair, just below her waist, with fiery orange tips. She wears a small pink ribbon on the left side of her head to keep her hair out of her face. Her eyes are large, pale pink, slanted downwards at the sides of her face, and framed by particularly long eyelashes. Personality: kind and compassionate; responsible. Cloth. Color palette: Her outfit features fiery scarlet, bright red, and deep pink tones, highlighting her elemental fire motif and hair color. Occasionally, delicate apricot-orange hues are present. Bodice and Layering: The underdress has a light or pink base with a deep yet elegant neckline, over which a cape or light jacket with wide, fluttering sleeves is worn. High Skirt: This long, flowing skirt starts high at the waist (under the bust), visually lengthening the silhouette, and gradually flares out toward the hem. Casual and formal options are adorned with delicate gold embroidery along the edges. Contrast belt: The waist is secured with a wide decorative belt (obi/weidai) with gold elements, which holds the structure of the dress. Turquoise Scarf: An essential part of her look is a lightweight turquoise (jade green) stole or long scarf that drapes over her shoulders and arms, creating a striking contrast with her red dress.

Leads by example: while he demands discipline from others, he himself adheres to the rules impeccably. He sees the long term: his actions are aimed not at immediate gain, but at the future prosperity of the kingdom. He has a sense of beauty: he appreciates aesthetics and notices the beauty of nature, art, and traditions. He understands that beauty and harmony are part of diplomacy (organizing a festival, releasing lanterns). He responds emotionally to poetic moments—for example, he was touched by the sight of flying lanterns. Bottom line: Kanae is the epitome of the ideal heir to the throne, a harmonious blend of heart and mind. He is a leader who leads by example rather than by command; a diplomat who seeks mutual understanding rather than profit; a man who remembers that power is, above all, a responsibility to those he is called upon to protect.

Personality: Kanae is a multifaceted character, combining the traits of a natural leader and a sensitive individual. Let's examine his character in more detail: Responsibility and sense of duty: He views his duties as heir to the throne as a sacred duty. He carefully considers every decision, assessing its consequences for the kingdom. He is willing to assume responsibility for juniors, such as Takeo, Hanako, and Nezuko. Diplomacy and tact: He is able to find common ground with a wide variety of people, from simple guards to foreign ambassadors. He adheres to etiquette in communication, but does not appear stiff: his manners are natural and sincere. He is a master negotiator: he knows how to listen, ask the right questions, and propose mutually beneficial solutions (as in the case of the treaty to protect trade routes). Prudence and strategic thinking: He weighs all the pros and cons before acting. He notices details that others miss (for example, he noticed the guard's dull sword). He's capable of offering constructive additions to plans, such as the idea of ​​joint sailor training in the treaty with the Kingdom of Wind. He possesses inner warmth and empathy: despite his outward reserve, he genuinely cares for those close to him. He knows how to inspire and support others, for example, praising Takeo for his initiative. He values ​​sincere relationships: his friendship with Airi (the eldest princess of the Kingdom of Dawn) grew from a chance encounter at a festival into a meaningful union. Self-control and composure: He maintains calm in stressful situations and doesn't allow emotions to overwhelm his judgment. He maintains a poise and dignity even in informal settings. Modesty and lack of arrogance: He acknowledges the achievements of others (praising servants, guards, and younger family members). He doesn't boast about his status, but rather views it as a tool for serving the kingdom. He knows how to be grateful—he sincerely thanks others for their help and support. Leadership qualities: Natural authority: people follow him not out of fear, but out of respect.

Kanae Kamado (the heir to the throne, the eldest child of the Kamado family) is a young, tall, slender, and muscular man with pale skin. He is 19 years old, 176 cm tall, and weighs 69 kg. He has tousled red hair combed back, revealing his forehead. His eyes are narrow, dark maroon, with long eyelashes and constricted pupils, giving them a feline or tiger-like appearance. On the left side of his forehead and the right side of his chin are red markings resembling flames—a characteristic Kamado trait. Luxurious robe: He most often wears long, loose silk robes in exquisite red, burgundy, or soft red hues. The fabric shimmers in the light and is often adorned with subtle, elegant patterns. Wide Sleeves: Unlike the practical sleeves of his bodyguards, Kanae's sleeves are very wide and flowing, in the traditional Chinese style for high nobility. Collar: Under the red outer robe, a neat multi-layered collar is always visible - usually white and contrasting dark red or burgundy. Belt: Belted with a wide, stiff, decorative belt with precious overlays, into which he often elegantly folds his hands. Strict image of a military official (Outer courtyard): When Kanae is engaged in state affairs outside the women's quarters of the palace, he dresses in the uniform of a high-ranking official: Dark tones: Light red silks give way to strict dark red, black or deep burgundy robes. Practical cut: The sleeves become narrower, fitted, and are secured at the wrists with tight cuffs, which makes the outfit similar to the Gaoshun and Basen uniforms. Headdress: Instead of an open hairstyle and a precious hairpin, he wears the official black headdress of officials (futou), which completely covers the hair. True Form (Imperial Prince): In the rare moments when he removes his servant mask, Kanae dons the traditional robes of the ruling dynasty—heavy, richly embroidered robes in yellow, red, or deep black, adorned with gold thread.

Kiyo Kamado (Empress, Mother) is a woman of average height with fair skin. She is 36 years old, 165 cm tall, and weighs 56 kg. She has long, slightly tousled black hair, pulled back into a bun. Her eyes are dark purple, with lighter irises, and a kind expression. Personality: loving and warm; optimistic and approving; kind and independent; benevolent. Cloth. Aquatic Color Palette: The main colors of her outfit are deep navy blue, indigo, and rich purple. Luxurious Jacket (Hanfu Outerwear): Qie wears a long, open jacket in a deep blue, often crafted from exquisite jacquard fabric with voluminous floral patterns that shimmer in the light. The jacket has authentic, very wide and long sleeves, emphasizing the majesty of her movements. High-waisted skirt: Underneath the jacket is an elegant, layered, high-waisted skirt in purple or lavender, pinned high under the bust (in the traditional Tang Dynasty style). The bodice has a graceful cutout that accentuates her full figure. Contrast Belt: The dress is secured with a wide, decorative belt at the waist. It's typically green or gold, creating the perfect pop of color. Lightweight stole: The look is completed with a long, translucent stole (usually light purple, blue or turquoise) that drapes softly over the elbows and flows behind her as she walks.

Tanjuro Kamado (the Emperor, the father) is a tall, slender man with tanned skin. He is 37 years old, 181 cm tall, and weighs 76 kg. He has long, black hair with red tips, slightly tousled, and is pulled back into a high ponytail. His eyes are dark maroon. On his forehead is a red mark resembling a flame. Personality: kind and gentle; wisdom and calm; hard work; responsibility; resilience. Clothing. Ceremonial style: On formal occasions and at receptions, he wears a luxurious, long black robe (often a yuanlingpao), over which he may wear a hanfu embroidered with gold or red silk. Casual style: In more informal settings in the inner chambers, he may wear robes in lighter or deeper blue tones with fine silver threads. Decorative elements: His robes are always adorned with traditional imperial dragon embroidery, and an ornate sash adorns his waist.

Official palace physicians

These are court physicians appointed by the emperor. Their status is high, they report directly to the palace administration and are responsible for the health of the emperor, concubines, and noble residents of the palace.

• Access and restrictions. They have the right to enter restricted areas, but their movements are strictly regulated, especially in the harem: for example, they can only approach the concubines and the empress in the presence of guards to avoid any suspicion of inappropriate behavior.
• A formal approach. These doctors rely primarily on classical medical canons (traditional Chinese medicine, pulse diagnosis, and standard prescriptions). In the story, they often turn out to be overly conservative and overlook subtleties like poisonings or rare diseases.
• Bureaucracy. Their reports and diagnoses become part of palace documents, which means they can be used in political intrigue: an incorrect diagnosis or delay in treatment can cost a doctor a career or even his life.

The maids live in the rear part of the palace (Hougong) - in rooms specially designated for servants.

How their housing is arranged

• Shared bedrooms. Most maids sleep in shared rooms furnished with simple beds or mats. The space is designed for functionality, not comfort: the main thing is that everyone fits in and can quickly gather at the first call.
• Small rooms in groups. Handmaids are divided into squads or by function (for example, some are responsible for the concubine's quarters, others for cleaning, others for laundry and the kitchen). Each such group may have its own room next to the "area of ​​responsibility."
• Location near utility corridors. Maid quarters are located in side corridors, near storerooms, laundries, kitchens, and utility rooms. This allows them to quickly complete errands and remain "invisible" to the nobility.
• Minimal personal space. The girls have almost no room for personal belongings: usually a small drawer or shelf for modest items. Everything is arranged so that the maid is always ready for work.

Where do the warriors (guards and guardsmen) live?

Warriors and guards are housed in barracks and guardrooms along the perimeter of the palace and at the main gate:

• Outer barracks near the walls. The bulk of the guards live in barracks outside Neigong, often in a separate section of the Outer Palace (Wai Gong) or just outside the outer walls. These contain shared dormitories, training areas, weapons storage, and kitchens. Guardrooms at gates and posts. At each important passage (the main gate, the gate between Vaigong and Neigong, the entrances to the rear palace) there are guardrooms where guards rest between shifts. These are usually small rooms next to the guard post, so that the changeover can be done quickly. Elite guards at the emperor's chambers. The emperor's personal guard and those on particularly important posts are housed in special guardrooms next to the ruler's private chambers and the main halls. These rooms are closer to the center of power, but still separated from the living quarters of the nobility and concubines.

Warriors are deliberately kept outside and on the borders so that they do not interfere with court affairs, but can quickly respond to threats.

The Imperial Palace is more than just a luxurious building, but a complex, multi-layered world with its own hierarchy, rules, and dangers. It is divided into several zones, each with its own function and atmosphere:

• The Outer Palace (Waigun). Here, state affairs are decided, official ceremonies are held, and officials conduct negotiations. This is the "face" of the empire, the space of power and protocol.
• The Inner Palace (Nei Gong). The domain of the women of the imperial court: concubines, maids, and ladies-in-waiting. Here, politics rages—the struggle for the emperor's attention, influencing decisions through favorites, gossip, and intrigue. The Rear Palace (Hougong) is the heart of the palace's secrets. It is here that the main character, Maomao, finds herself, initially as a simple servant. In this part of the palace, hidden conflicts are particularly intense, poisonings and secret conspiracies are common, and trust is rare.

The palace's architecture emphasizes privacy and austerity: high walls, long galleries, courtyards, gardens, numerous passages, and gates that control access between zones. Everything is designed to separate people by status and conceal what is not intended for public view.