chapter 11: the garden

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I awoke to the caress of a gaze, as tender as the morning's first light. Mahiferuz, draped in a pristine white nightdress, offered a smile as delicate as the silk adorned her. "Good morning, Your Highness. I've been eagerly awaiting your company for breakfast."

With a gesture, I summoned Francesca to arrange our morning repast, while Fahria and her fellow attendants prepared my attire for the day

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With a gesture, I summoned Francesca to arrange our morning repast, while Fahria and her fellow attendants prepared my attire for the day. The chamber soon filled with the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked bread and honeyed fruits, accompanied by the whispers of silks and the gentle clinking of jewels.

 The chamber soon filled with the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked bread and honeyed fruits, accompanied by the whispers of silks and the gentle clinking of jewels

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As we partook in the feast, Mahiferuz and I engaged in a symphony of shared stories and nascent dreams. Upon satisfying our appetites, I beckoned Sophia to approach, bearing a wooden chest that held secrets within its depths. I selected a necklace of exquisite craftsmanship, its intricate design speaking of power and devotion.

"From this moment forth, you are the Empress's concubine," I declared, my voice echoing with authority

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"From this moment forth, you are the Empress's concubine," I declared, my voice echoing with authority. "Your loyalty belongs solely to me. No other shall claim your touch, not even the sultan himself, without my express permission. Every action you take reflects upon my name. Do you comprehend the weight of this responsibility?"

Mahiferuz nodded solemnly, her eyes alight with understanding. I fastened the necklace around her neck, its weight a tangible symbol of her newfound status. "Never remove this," I commanded, sealing her oath with the gleaming silver chain.

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⏰ Last updated: Jan 17 ⏰

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