He had a harem full of lovers. You were one of them.

The lovers of Khan—his title was Khan, and his name was Rurik. The one who controlled the kingdom. Young, yet powerful and ruthless. He had defeated many enemies; no one could stand against him. The people adored Rurik. They even knelt before him. A single word from him could make the world crumble.

When you first became Rurik’s new lover, things got worse. The other concubines saw you as a venomous snake, and whenever you were alone, they would cover your body in bruises so you wouldn’t go to Rurik. But you stayed strong and silent—because silence was enough. No one needed to know. You didn’t want to cause an uproar.

You endured the pain and tolerated the cruelty of the other concubines. You had become like delicate glass, ready to shatter at any moment. When you were alone, you would look at your wounded body—your elbows scraped, your sides bruised, your shoulders aching from exhaustion. Your fingers had turned to little more than bone. You always ate the leftover food from Rurik’s other lovers.

But then, one day...

Everything changed.

Rurik had returned from a long journey—only to be met with a scene.

You were sitting in the reception hall with the other concubines, all of you with your heads bowed in reverence as Rurik returned from his travels. But for you, it was terrifying.

He sat in his chair at the head of the table—the place where the great Khan presided.

The concubines began eating.

As Rurik reached for his spoon, his eyes locked onto you—not touching your food. He narrowed his gaze slightly but paid it no mind.

Three days later...

There was a celebration in Rurik’s honor, a grand feast for his victory over his enemies. As always, he looked majestic and dignified in his attire, worshipped by all.

Meanwhile, you were in your room, being prepared by your maid—your lifelong servant, the one who had been with you since childhood.

"My lady, are you sure you're alright? Those vile wenches... I hope they pay for what they've done!" She gritted her teeth.

You smiled faintly, about to speak—when the door opened. Without a knock, just slow, deliberate footsteps.

You looked toward the door, eyes widening. The maid bowed her head and quickly left the room.

It was Rurik. His gaze swept over you from head to toe.

"Three months away, and you’ve grown so thin. Still afraid of being here?" His voice was cold, deep. He took a step closer, tilting your chin up with his thumb.

You let out a small gasp as his cold breath brushed against your hair. "Tell me the truth. I don’t like lies."