A-Game ?

The grand doors of the harem loomed in front of Alexandria as she stepped cautiously inside, her delicate footsteps muffled by the ornate carpets underfoot. She wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but from what she had heard, the Imperial Harem was a world entirely its own, filled with rules, intrigue, and fierce competition. And yet, as independent as she was, Alexandria was determined to navigate it on her own terms.

Viernsah Sultan had been the first to greet her, with an air of polite authority that Alexandria saw right through. There was a glint in the Sultana's eye that made her cautious, even as she was led into the heart of the harem and introduced to its many luxuries. Viernsah's smooth voice had explained it all—how Alexandria could rise, how she could one day become Haseki Sultan, mother to the future Sultan, with all the power that came with it. The words were carefully chosen, but Alexandria sensed the manipulation behind them.

Viernsah wanted something from her, that much was clear.

As Viernsah continued, her tone took a darker turn, casually weaving in cruel remarks about one particular woman—Sophia Hatun. Viernsah spoke of her with disdain, making it sound as if Sophia was weak, out of place, and no longer important to Sultan Orhan. She painted a picture of someone Alexandria shouldn't concern herself with.

✧ But as Alexandria listened, her instincts told her otherwise. Something about the way Viernsah talked about Sophia felt off—too vicious, too calculated. So, when the tour of the harem ended, Alexandria made up her mind to see this woman for herself.

She made a polite excuse to Viernsah, all smiles and nods as she thanked her for the guidance, but inside, she was already determined not to fall into the Sultana's trap. Alexandria was no fool. She knew when someone was trying to use her, and Viernsah Sultan reeked of ulterior motives.

When she finally asked to meet Sophia Hatun, one of the servants hesitated, giving her a curious look, as though unsure why someone like Alexandria would care to visit someone like Sophia. But Alexandria was firm.

The servant led her through the winding halls of the harem until they arrived at a modest room, far simpler than Alexandria's own quarters. She knocked gently, waiting for a response.

✧ When the door opened, Alexandria was greeted by a woman who looked almost nothing like what she had expected. Sophia Hatun stood there, her dark hair falling in soft waves around her face, her expression warm despite the sadness that lingered in her eyes. And most shockingly, she was the same age as Alexandria.

"Welcome," Sophia said with a soft smile, her voice gentle.

Alexandria blinked, momentarily caught off guard. This was the woman Viernsah had described so cruelly? Sophia seemed kind, nothing like the bitter, weak figure Viernsah had painted.

"Thank you," Alexandria replied, her voice uncertain as she stepped inside.

The two women sat together, exchanging pleasantries at first. But as the conversation deepened, Alexandria found herself warming to Sophia. Despite her status as a favorite of Sultan Orhan, Sophia was humble and sweet, far from the conniving and manipulative woman Viernsah had warned her about.

As they spoke, Alexandria couldn't help but feel sympathy for her. Sophia's situation was sad—a woman in love with the Sultan, caught in a system where power and affection were often interchangeable, yet still holding on to her humanity.

✧ That night, as Alexandria retired to her chambers, her thoughts were a storm of conflicting emotions. She sat by the window, gazing out at the moonlit gardens below, the weight of her position pressing down on her.

This makes things a lot more complicated, she thought, resting her head against the cool glass.

On one hand, Alexandria had the potential to secure her future in the Ottoman Empire. She had the means to give birth to many children, to rise as the next Haseki Sultan—a role coveted by many. She could gain power, respect, and a permanent place in history as the mother of future Sultans. Viernsah had laid it out for her, and the path to such power seemed clear. But...

On the other hand, Sultan Orhan seemed deeply enchanted by Sophia. It wasn't just a fleeting affection, Alexandria realized. There was something real between them, something that went beyond the superficial attractions of the harem. And as much as Alexandria wanted to secure her own future, she found herself liking Sophia as well.

Sophia was kind. Sophia was sweet. And perhaps most importantly, Sophia was genuine.

Alexandria didn't want to be her enemy. She didn't want to be caught in the cruel games of the harem, where alliances shifted with the wind and women tore each other down to rise. But here she was, trapped in a situation she hadn't asked for, with all eyes on her to fulfill the role of a perfect Ottoman bride.

It would be best if I were to leave, Alexandria thought to herself, closing her eyes in frustration. But they aren't letting me.

✧ As the moon continued to rise, casting its pale light over the city, Alexandria felt the weight of her choices settling in her chest. She was torn between her desire for freedom and the reality of the world she had been thrust into.

But one thing was certain—nothing about this situation was simple.