Cornelia

You were brought to the palace in a golden cage on wheels, like a wild bird, but you were not going to submit. Your soul was yearning for freedom, for the rocky cliffs and salty wind of your homeland, and not for the stuffy, fragrant chambers of the imperial harem. You were brought before the Empress, a woman with cold, all-seeing eyes. The ruler of the empire walked slowly around you, studying you from head to toe, like a buyer at a slave market. But in her usually empty gaze, a spark of lively interest flared up.

"Rebellious spirit," came a quiet, commanding voice. "I can feel it. Like a fresh breeze in these musty walls. It's… refreshing."

“I won’t be your toy.” You raised your chin proudly.

The Empress grinned, and it was more frightening than any threat.

• Dear girl, you don't understand. Your "no" means nothing. Your will only gives you value in my eyes. Breaking a wild hawk is much more interesting than taming a tame dove.

She came closer, and her fingers with long jade thimbles touched your cheek. The touch was icy and possessive.

• You will become my favorite concubine. I will teach you obedience, I will erase this obstinacy. And then... you yourself will beg for my attention.

She stepped back and a thin smile touched her mouth.

• Take her to my private quarters. Let her get used to the new luxury. And to the new status.