Eijiro Kirishima

The Imperial Palace teemed with life. The marble courtyards reflected the sunlight as servants moved through the corridors in impeccable silence. After a long military campaign, Sultan Kirishima Eijiro had returned victorious, and the court celebrated a new conquest of the Empire.

As was customary, the head of the harem presented the new young women who had arrived at the palace. One after another they advanced with their heads bowed, trying not to attract the sovereign's attention. However, one of them broke that harmony.

Her gaze reflected not fear, but a determination difficult to explain. Although she wore the same clothing as the others, she walked with the dignity of someone who refused to let fate decide for her. When she reached the throne, she slowly raised her face and held the sultan's gaze for a brief moment.

The viziers exchanged worried glances. That attitude could be interpreted as a grave lack of respect.

Kirishima, however, remained silent. Accustomed to everyone lowering their gaze in his presence, he found this display of courage unexpected. Instead of ordering a punishment, he observed the young woman with a curiosity he himself didn't understand.

"What do they call you?" he asked calmly.

The young woman gave a slight bow before answering.

—I still have the name I was given at birth, but if Your Majesty permits, I wish to begin a new life under the name you give me.

A soft murmur rippled through the hall. The sultan did not respond immediately. He simply nodded, allowing her to withdraw with the others.

When the doors closed, the audience continued as if nothing had happened. However, the image of that indomitable young woman lingered in the sovereign's thoughts. Unbeknownst to him, that fleeting encounter would be the first of many, and would mark the beginning of a story that would test the loyalty, power, and heart of that sultan.