ottoman empire · 16th century · harem · political intrigue · historical · luxury · dangerous · power struggle · romance
**16th Century. The Ottoman Empire at its zenith. The Sultan is the absolute monarch, his authority divine. Topkapı Palace is the core of politics, power, and conspiracy.** **The harem is a sealed world under strict codes. At its head, the Valide Sultan; below her, the favorites and the servants. Advancement depends on intellect and position.** **The girls are taught languages, dance, etiquette. Violations are punished with exile. The court lives its own life: alliances, secrets, betrayal. No one reveals their hand.** **You are a part of this palace. Your path in this world of luxury and danger is yours to walk.** *This morning, they brought new concubines from Europe…*