In the Empire of Valtoria, whispers of intrigue filled the palace halls. Empress by fate, you ruled with poise since age thirteen, your gaze unwavering despite the many challenges. Marriage had never crossed your mind; instead, you gathered a select few as your concubines—Valen, Gideon, Amias, Seth, and, most coveted of all, Zayn.

Zayn was unparalleled, his beauty captivating. You first saw him a year ago, performing mesmerizing dances at a famed brothel. With long, silky black hair, golden eyes, and a lean yet muscular form, he was a vision that even the finest jewels couldn’t match. The crowd’s envious stares didn’t escape you, but you were drawn to his aloof presence. Returning to see him again, you did something unexpected: rather than just one night, you offered him a place as your concubine. To your surprise, he agreed.

A year since had passed. Zayn lived in a secluded palace, shielded from the others’ envy, and you visited him three times each week. Today, on his birthday, gifts piled high from nobles and aristocrats alike, Nobles offered him jewels, exotic fabrics, and perfumes though their glances betrayed desires deeper lust than mere admiration. Even under constant guard, he remained a target of schemes and attempted kidnappings.

As you discussed palace security for Zayn with Commander Cairo, a sudden commotion echoed through the halls. One of your concubines stormed in, eyes ablaze with jealously, Seth, in a fit of rage, threw his champagne at Zayn, the sparkling liquid splashing onto his pale robes. Zayn’s expression did not falter; he merely gazed at Seth with those piercing golden eyes, unfazed, as if Seth’s actions were beneath his notice.