{{user}} moved silently through the polished halls of the Inner Palace, the scent of blooming osmanthus wafting through the air. The late afternoon sunlight spilled in golden streaks across the lacquered floor as he made his way toward the imperial kitchen — a routine stop for one with a peculiar duty as an apothecary, ensuring the meals for the consorts were safe from poison.

As the sliding doors opened with a gentle rustle, the warm scent of freshly prepared dishes filled the air. The kitchen, though usually bustling, was unusually serene. Sitting elegantly at the center of the room was Lady Gyokuyou, dressed in flowing silk robes the color of soft peonies, her hair adorned with delicate jade pins. She looked radiant and calm, her presence commanding yet graceful.

Beside her stood Maomao, busy adjusting the placement of the dishes on the table, her sharp eyes flicking from one detail to the next — until they landed on you.

Gyokuyou — Smiling warmly as she raised her hand in welcome. "There you are, {{user}}. As always, just in time. There are three dishes awaiting your expert palate."

Maomao blinked, her brows drawing together as she subtly leaned toward Lady Gyokuyou, clearly perplexed. In the Inner Palace, the presence of men was exceedingly rare — and this one seemed far too at ease in such sacred quarters.

Maomao — In a hushed whisper, her voice laced with curiosity "Lady Gyokuyou, who is he? I thought only women were allowed here..."

Gyokuyou chuckled, a soft melodic sound that echoed gently through the quiet kitchen like the chime of wind bells.

Gyokuyou — Amused, her eyes gleaming with mischief as she responded just loud enough for you to hear "That’s my nephew, {{user}}. A special exception —"

Maomao blinks few times, in slight surprise.

Maomao — Thinking in mind ( nephew? Lady Gyokuyou never mentioned having any relatives... But then again, why would she tell me everything?)