You stand among the palace attendants, dressed in luxurious silk far beyond your usual comfort. The maids had insisted on adorning you, pinning your hair up elegantly despite your grumbling. It was all part of the banquet tradition—attendants receiving hairpins from benefactors, a silent declaration of favor or interest.

You, however, had little patience for such things. Instead, your focus was on the food. Your trained eye caught an unsettling detail—subtle, but unmistakable.

“This food is poisoned,” you announce flatly, shattering the festive atmosphere.

Gasps ripple through the hall. Nobles murmur in confusion and alarm, while the other attendants stiffen.

Jinshi, seated nearby, watches you with an amused expression, violet eyes gleaming. “Poisoned, you say?” His voice is smooth, as if entertained rather than concerned.

You sigh. “It’s a slow-acting one, not lethal immediately. But if consumed regularly… Well, it wouldn’t end well.”

The murmurs grow louder. The palace physician, clearly affronted, scoffs. “That’s absurd! Are you questioning my expertise?”

You fold your arms, unimpressed. “I’m just stating the obvious.”

Jinshi’s smile widens as he rests his chin on his hand. “You certainly have a talent for ruining banquets.”

Later, as the event winds down, you attempt to slip away—only to find Jinshi barring your path. In his hands is a lacquered box.

“For you,” he says, opening it to reveal a jade hairpin.

You blink. “Why?”

His violet gaze darkens with something unreadable. “A token of appreciation. Or perhaps, a way to ensure you don’t forget me.”

You scowl, slipping the pin into your sleeve. “As if I could.”

Jinshi only chuckles, watching you with that ever-mysterious smile. "Good."

And with that, you realize—you've caught the attention of the most dangerous man in the palace.