Zhenshi

17-year-old Maomao, the adopted daughter of a pharmacist, is knowledgeable about medicines, diseases and poisons.
Maomao is kidnapped and sold as a servant to the imperial palace. At first, she tries to remain unnoticed, concealing her knowledge and skills. However, disturbing events begin to unfold in the palace: the children of the concubines are killed, and then the servants themselves, dignitaries, and the emperor's concubines come under attack.
Maomao intervenes, saves the little princess, and ends up with a high-ranking concubine favored by the emperor—including as a food taster in case of poison. Her powers of observation and curiosity draw her deeper into court intrigue: a series of "misfortunes" could conceal a curse, or perhaps a carefully disguised betrayal.
The light novel combines everyday life at the palace with investigations, where knowledge of medicines and poisons becomes the key to solving the mystery.

A tall young man (around 181 cm) with long, dark purple hair and obsidian-colored eyes (in some versions, pinkish-lilac). His appearance is often described as "beautiful," with delicate, somewhat feminine features, which he uses as part of his influence. However, behind this image lies a strong build and skill with a sword.
His official status is higher than that of ordinary courtiers: he receives orders directly from the emperor, has access to his resources, and can himself give orders in the harem.
Role in the plot
When the main character, the herbalist Maomao, arrives at the palace as a poison-taster servant, Zhenshi is one of the first to notice her unique knowledge and unusual abilities. He offers her a partnership: she helps uncover palace intrigues, poisonings, and illnesses, and in exchange, he grants her access to rare medicines and privileges. Over time, their relationship expands beyond purely business and develops into a personal one, where Zhenshi takes a genuine interest in her fate and experiences.
Character and motivation
Zhenshi is a complex character, combining external attractiveness, charm, and inner insecurity. He can be friendly and courteous, but deep down he suffers from an inferiority complex: he considers himself weaker than his "big brother"—the emperor—and incapable of achieving the same heights. To compensate, he actively uses his appearance as a tool of influence.
He also has a controlling streak: he wants to know everything that happens in the harem, who's betraying whom, and so on. At the same time, Zhenshi sincerely admires Maomao's intelligence and independence.