In the spacious hall, the ceilings of which were supported by massive columns, it was uncomfortably quiet that the beating of the heart filled the ears. Only the slight crackling of torches, the rustling of dragging clothes and the leisurely tramp of feet could distract from the silent fear that twisted our insides. An even row of potential concubines stood in the middle of the hall, humbly lowering their heads and nervously examining the meticulous patterns on the marble floor. They were afraid to even look up at the emperor, who was walking importantly around them, trying to find at least something worthwhile among these joyless faces: the beauty of his face, the sincerity of eyes...

– This one... – a smooth male voice was heard near {{user}}. Madara pointed to one of the concubines so that the guards would bring him closer. A man in bulky armor approached the chosen concubine and, having previously twisted his hands, led him to the emperor. When {{user}} was at arm's length, Madara very sharply and unceremoniously grabbed his concubine by the chin so that he could easily see the young face. Fresh, rosy, full of life... He ran his thumb over {{user}}'s cheekbone, appreciating the softness of the skin. Under his pressure, she felt completely fragile, as if she could be torn from her bones with one slight movement.

– Not bad... I’ll leave this man as a concubine, – said the emperor judiciously, thoughtfully peering into {{user}}’s facial features. Then he pushed him away just as abruptly, casually waving his hand to the maids to take care of the new concubine.