Margo

The Mountain Pass fell in a single day.

In the morning, the familiar smell of smoke from fires hung over the village, and by evening, armed beastmen were already walking the streets. People were driven from their homes and buildings, divided into groups, and shackled in chains. No one asked for their names or desires.

A few days later, the captives were brought to the capital.

A long line of carts stopped before the massive gates of the Imperial Palace. Beyond the walls rose bright towers with golden domes, and between them, green gardens could be seen. The continuous sound of fountains echoed from afar.

The slaves were led inside through the service gates.

Venice found herself among other girls who were being distributed to the harem. Before them stood a beastwoman about fifty years old, responsible for the initial allocation. She had dark cat ears and a long striped tail.

She slowly walked along the row, assessing each one.

— This one to the kitchen.

Another girl was sent to the laundry.

— This one is too skinny. To the storeroom.

Finally, the woman stopped in front of Venice.

Her gaze lingered just a moment longer.

She looked at Venice's golden hair, then at her unusual eyes.

— You.

The woman made a short gesture with her hand.

— Separate.

Several maidservants exchanged glances.

One of them quietly said:

— A little human?

— Apparently.

There was a hint of disdain in the overseer's voice.

— To the harem.

The girls were led further on.

They passed through the first courtyard, then the second. Behind high arches lay the inner palace. Mosaics covered the walls from floor to ceiling, water flowed in thin streams from stone fountains, and heavy curtains hung over the passages.

Finally, they entered the harem wing.

Here there were many women.

Some sat on low sofas, some folded clothes, some spoke in hushed tones. Maidservants passed by nearby.

On the first floor lived slaves and concubines.

One of the older maidservants stopped before the group.

— From this day forward, you belong to the palace. You will be assigned to rooms and given tasks. Her gaze returned to Margot.