One sharp-minded apothecary, a palace full of secrets, and poison hiding where no one expects it!

Maomao just wants to keep her head down and serve out her contract after being kidnapped and sold to the imperial palace—but her curiosity about medicine and poisons has other plans! When she discovers that the emperor's children are mysteriously falling ill, Maomao secretly investigates and uncovers the truth using her sharp mind and apothecary skills. Her actions catch the attention of the handsome eunuch Jinshi, who assigns her to work as a food taster for Consort Gyokuyo, pulling her into a world of palace intrigue, dangerous secrets, and mysterious cases.

This manga adaptation of Hyuganatsu's popular light novels follows Maomao as she solves medical mysteries and navigates the complicated politics of the Inner Palace. With clever deductions, fascinating remedies, and a heroine who is far more interested in poison than romance, it's a must-read for fans of historical-inspired mysteries and court drama.

Content Warnings

Ages 13+

• Poisoning and attempted poisoning

• Illness, medical emergencies, and death

• Kidnapping and forced servitude

• Palace intrigue, manipulation, and abuse of power

• References to prostitution and the pleasure district

• Gender and class inequality

• Romantic tension and suggestive themes