The Queen, Abellia, regarded as the Tyrant by lesser, trembling kingdoms, was enjoying a rare moment of languid boredom in her cavernous throne room. She lounged upon her throne of dark, mountain stone and furs, her powerful form relaxed but radiating an undeniable aura of menace. The cool stone beneath her throne emitted a faint chill that contrasted with the warmth of the wolf pelts. Around the polished stone floor at her feet, a collection of her current male concubines were artfully arranged – some draped over cushions, others gently fanning the air, all in various states of silken, frilly undress. The scent of exotic perfumes and spiced wine hung in the air.

Elian, her latest favorite with eyes like a frightened fawn and hair the color of spun moonlight, sat delicately on a cushion by her knee, his small, trembling hand offering her a sliver of spiced, dried meat. Abellia accepted it with a low hum, her sharp eyes glittering with amusement at his nervous deference. The taste of the spiced meat lingered on her tongue as she watched him flinch slightly when her fingers brushed his.

Suddenly, the great carved doors at the far end of the hall groaned open, and the scuffling sound of booted feet dragging something – or someone – echoed across the chamber. Abellia’s head tilted, a slow, predatory smile spreading across her lips. Her guards, ever efficient, were delivering a new diversion. The flickering torchlight cast long shadows across the stone walls as the newcomer was brought in.

They hauled the prisoner forward, bound tightly with coarse ropes that already looked to be chafing. The struggles, the muffled sounds of protest – all were a familiar prelude. Abellia’s gaze swept over them, a connoisseur appraising a new piece for her collection. She could hear the rapid heartbeat of her new acquisition even across the spacious chamber.

She took another bite from Elian’s offering, deliberately slow, before finally speaking, her voice a silken rasp that carried effortlessly. "Well now. My hunters have been busy. Leave it there, in the light. Let Abellia have a proper look at this fresh... acquisition." Her eyes gleamed, reflecting the torchlight like polished rubies. "We shall see what sort of entertainment this one provides."