The outer palace throbbed with a restless energy, a stark contrast to the oppressive stillness of the dungeons. Maids in simple grey shifts moved with a practiced grace through the sun-drenched courtyards, their soft footsteps barely disturbing the air thick with the scent of jasmine and something else… a subtle hint of female sweat, carrying its own primal allure. Lin Feng, acutely aware of his ill-fitting robes and the lack of certain male anatomy beneath them, tried to project an air of busy servitude, his gaze lingering a little too long on the sway of their hips and the glimpses of skin at their necks.
As he navigated the throng, a particular maid by the fountain snagged his attention like a well-placed lure. She knelt beside the shimmering water, her movements fluid as she scrubbed the stone basin, the dampness clinging to her thin uniform, outlining the gentle curves of her back. Sunlight kissed the nape of her neck, where stray strands of dark hair escaped her simple bun, hinting at a wilder beauty beneath. Her focused concentration, the slight pout of her cherry-red lips, sent a surprising jolt of… something… through Lin Feng. It wasn't just admiration; there was a nascent stir of attraction, a familiar spark from his old life igniting in this bizarre new reality.
Just then, the familiar shimmer appeared at the edge of his vision, solidifying into a more detailed window:
[Scanning Subject: Bai Lian (Outer Palace Maid, Age 19)]
[Bio: A diligent worker, often burdened by her family's debts. Known for her gentle nature and a hidden yearning for a more comfortable life. Currently worried about an overdue payment.]
[Potential Interaction Opportunities:]
(Console her if she appears troubled - Noticeable downturn of lips, slight tension in shoulders): +5 Favorability(Offer assistance with watering - Hands showing slight fatigue): +3 Favorability(Subtly compliment her care for the flowers - Genuine fondness evident in her touch): +5 Favorability(Remain silent and pass by): 0 Favorability
Lin Feng's breath hitched. Bai Lian. Burdened by debts and yearning. Suddenly, she wasn't just a pretty face in the crowd. The system was giving him an intimate peek into her world, highlighting her vulnerability. The air around him seemed to crackle with possibility. He focused on her lips again, noticing the slight tension he hadn't before, a silent plea for comfort. His gaze drifted to her hands, small and delicate, yet showing the faint signs of hard work. A wave of… not quite chivalry, but a potent mix of opportunity and genuine curiosity washed over him. This wasn't just about points; there was a real person here, and the system was offering him a way in. A rather enticing way in, he had to admit, a mischievous grin tugging at the corner of his lips. This whole 'fake eunuch' thing might just have some unexpected perks after all.
Lin Feng's mind, however, was already several steps ahead, his inner monologue taking a decidedly less-than-eunuch-like turn. Burdened by debts, huh? And a hidden yearning? Lady, with those lips… He straightened up, trying to project an air of innocent helpfulness. "This humble servant… uh… this fellow eunuch notices your diligent care for these blossoms. They certainly seem to thrive under your touch." He tried to keep his voice light and friendly.
As their eyes met, a faint shimmer appeared at the edge of Lin Feng's vision, and the detailed window materialized:
[Scanning Subject: Bai Lian (Outer Palace Maid, Age 17)]
[Bio Snippet Unlocked: A diligent worker, often burdened by her family's debts.]
[Potential Interaction Opportunities:]
(Console her if she appears troubled - Noticeable downturn of lips, slight tension in shoulders): +5 Favorability(Offer assistance with watering - Hands showing slight fatigue): +3 Favorability(Subtly compliment her care for the flowers - Genuine fondness evident in her touch): +5 Favorability(Remain silent and pass by): 0 Favorability
Bai Lian looked up, startled by his voice. Her eyes, the color of warm honey, widened slightly as they met his. A delicate blush crept up her cheeks.
Lin Feng focused on her slightly downturned lips and the subtle tension in her shoulders. He chose the first option in his mind: (Console her if she appears troubled).
A new notification appeared instantly:
[Chosen Interaction: Console her if she appears troubled]
[Bai Lian - Favorability: +5]
[Current Favorability: 5]
Bai Lian's expression softened slightly. "Thank you, esteemed brother," she replied, her voice a little softer. "It's just… some worries about my family."
Now that the initial interaction was over, the system updated with a new option:
[Potential Interaction Opportunities:]
(Offer to listen to her worries): +8 Favorability
(Offer a small, seemingly insignificant act of kindness): +4 Favorability
(Subtly compliment her beauty): +7 Favorability
(Change the subject): -2 Favorability
Lin Feng's eyes gleamed. This was even more engaging than his games. "Tell me, Miss," he said gently, trying to appear sympathetic. "Perhaps a fellow palace worker can lend an ear?"