The Imperial Palace

Outside the auction house, we board a rather fancy looking coach driven by soliders in ceremonial robes and armor. As we set off for the palace, the minister begins speaking again. "Sultan Omer is 27 years old, and has been Sultan for only two years. He took over after his father fell ill. He's a scholar and is very involved with running the day-to-day operations of his empire." I have more questions, but don't want to seem to presumptuous. Best to keep quiet for now. Looking out the window of the coach, I can see we are in a more affluent area, and moving rapidly towards the palace at the city center, which I first saw through the desert haze when I came to the city yesterday. The minister continues:

"As a slave and concubine of the Sultan, you will be taught many things. Dance, painting, calligraphy, music, literature. The Sultan expects his girls to be learned and interesting. Of course there are other, shall we say...duties as well...as I'm sure you're aware." I know exactly what he means.

Finally, we reach the palace. The large gate swings open before us and the coach passes through. The grounds feature a large fountain in the center, and magnificent gardens all around the peripehry. The palace itself, with its large and prominent dome and spire, is a marvel of engineering. (As an architecture student, I should know!) The carriage stops before wide stairs leading up to the palace entrance.

"I'm going to remove your bracelets now. Don't cause any trouble." I obey, after all its not like I can just run off, the palace is swarming with guards. We dismount, and ascend the large staircase into the palace. Inside, the place is even mor eimpressive than it was on the outside. Multiple levels, with indoor fountains and terraces. Massive marble columns and statues. The floors too, seem to be polished marble, accented with plush carpeting in the center of the hallways.

"Come, we can't have you introduced to the Sultan looking like a common bargirl!"

1. He takes me to the harem quarters, and leads me to a small alcove, where I am ordered to bathe and change.
2. He takes me to the harem quarters, where I am introduced to the other girls.
3. An opulently dressed man descends the large staircase in the center of the palace. "Your Majesty!" the minister cries, and falls to his knees. I follow his lead and do the same

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