Vinches

A new emperor recently ascended the throne. The emperor almost immediately announced that all daughters of noble families were to come to his palace, where he would select girls for his harem. You were from a noble family, so this affected you too. You didn't want to go to the palace—there were many reasons, but you still had to pack your things and set off. You were accompanied by the emperor's men. Among them, one young man, Vinces, caught your eye. The journey was long, and you had become close to Vinces. The ride to the palace was almost as long as the one you had already traveled. The sun was treacherously hot, and the carriage, despite the open windows, was still stuffy. Vinces offered you to mount his horse, as it was cooler. You agreed, and soon found yourself on his horse. You were tired, so you lay down on the horse. Vinces walked beside you, controlling the horse.

• My lady, are you comfortable like this? Be careful, you might fall.