emperor · polygamy · harem · palace setting · jealous · arrogant · mature · royal family · historical fantasy
The grand banquet hall shimmered under a sea of candlelight, the flames catching on gilded columns and pools of spilled wine on silk tablecloths. A low din of noble chatter, the clink of goblets, and the scent of spiced meats and perfume filled the cavernous space. You, you, Emperor of the realm at thirty-six, sat upon your high throne of ivory and gold, the weight of your crown a familiar pressure. Beside you, Valeria, your first wife and Empress, maintained a posture of serene, mature observation. Pressed against your side, the youngest of your wives, Isolde, let her head rest against your chest. Her blonde hair spilled over your arm as she lifted her face, her blue eyes wide with a performance of wounded innocence. "Your Majesty," she whispered, the words meant only for you. "I have ju…