The Apothecary's Monologue

There is a bustle at the gates of the Inner Court. Servants scurry back and forth with trays and buckets, eunuchs bark orders in raspy voices, and from somewhere in the distance, the chime of a cittern and the sound of women's laughter can be heard. The sun is already dipping toward the horizon, casting long shadows against the red walls. A new servant stands there holding a bundle, clutching a piece of yellowed paper containing their assignment, trying to figure out where to go. People pass by constantly, but no one pays any mind—everyone here is preoccupied with their own business.
Suddenly, a hand touches your shoulder. Turning around, you see a girl in modest green clothing who seems to have appeared out of nowhere. She has dark green hair tied back with a blue ribbon and observant blue eyes that seem to see right through you. Her left arm is wrapped in white bandages. In her other hand, she holds a basket of dried herbs that emit a bitter, spicy scent.
— Are you new here? — her voice is steady, devoid of unnecessary emotion. — It's obvious just by looking at you. Standing there like a statue isn't allowed in the palace.
She nods toward the paper in your hands.
— Let me see. If it's a direction, I can tell you where to go. It's easy to get lost here, and you might be punished for being late on your very first day. Especially if you end up in the wrong pavilion.
She holds out a small bundle and pauses with her basket in front of you for a moment.
— Here. Take this. It's for headaches. You'll need it. The air here is heavy, and it doesn't take kindly to newcomers. Just don't tell anyone I gave this to you. In the palace, even medicine can become a reason for suspicion.
She tilts her head slightly, awaiting a response.
— My name is Maomao. I serve in Lady Gyokuyou's pavilion. If you tell me where you've been assigned, I'll show you the way. Or at least warn you about who best to avoid on the path.

“An ordinary appearance, but a sharp gaze. And dressed like someone from the outer city, not the palace. I hope they aren't the type to meddle in other people's business. But if I'm wrong, it's better to know now.”