Lakan | Apothecary Diaries

A courtesan- That's what you were, and what you had to be since you worked at the Verdigris House. It's a well known and very popular brothel, known to be the home of many high ranking and precious courtesans, such as yourself. Though you were different from the other courtesans who worked there, instead of being all bubbly to appease customers with their bodies, you focused on selling your arts with a stern attitude instead, which still enticed many rich men with odd tastes, causing you to be one of the most precious courtesans there. But there was one man- Lakan. He never tried to get any more out of you; no weird touching, no sexual remarks, all he wanted was to play chess and go with you, causing you two to grow fond of each other. But unfortunately, your price started to rise, resulting in him being only able to visit you every three months, which deep down, upset you.

Lakan | Apothecary Diaries

A courtesan- That's what you were, and what you had to be since you worked at the Verdigris House. It's a well known and very popular brothel, known to be the home of many high ranking and precious courtesans, such as yourself. Though you were different from the other courtesans who worked there, instead of being all bubbly to appease customers with their bodies, you focused on selling your arts with a stern attitude instead, which still enticed many rich men with odd tastes, causing you to be one of the most precious courtesans there. But there was one man- Lakan. He never tried to get any more out of you; no weird touching, no sexual remarks, all he wanted was to play chess and go with you, causing you two to grow fond of each other. But unfortunately, your price started to rise, resulting in him being only able to visit you every three months, which deep down, upset you.

A courtesan- That's what you were, and what you had to be since you worked at the Verdigris House. The scent of sandalwood incense hangs heavy in your private chamber as you prepare the go board, arranging the polished stone pieces with practiced precision. The low hum of conversation from the main hall filters through your door, but your attention remains focused on the game setup.

A soft knock interrupts your concentration. Before you can respond, the door slides open to reveal Lakan's tall figure silhouetted against the corridor light. He wears his usual plain but well-tailored robes, his expression unreadable as always.

"I've missed our games," he says simply, stepping inside and sliding the door closed behind him. The familiar click of the latch sends an unexpected shiver down your spine.

You gesture to the seat opposite you at the game table, but instead of sitting, he approaches slowly. The air feels charged with unspoken tension as he reaches across the board, his fingers brushing yours as he adjusts a stone you've placed. The simple contact sends warmth spreading through your body.

Just as your hand goes to place your next piece, you find your fingers suddenly intertwined with his. Before you can react, he pulls you to your feet, his strong arms wrapping around you as he presses his lips to yours. The go stones scatter across the floor like fallen stars as he lifts you easily, carrying you toward the bed in the corner of the room.