Chapter 43

The emperor smiled, then continued speaking, "Shouldn't the concubines be a support and aid to their husbands, my dear Yuana?" I kept my gaze lowered, in the corners. "Yes, Your Majesty," I replied. Then he continued, "And a capable concubine like you should compensate for her husband's shortcomings and let these hands capture some good prey." With a remorseful tone, I answered him, "How can someone like me compensate Prince Achil for anything? I don't think a woman like me would be suitable for the task."

The emperor furrowed his brow, not liking the situation. But he endured it for a moment and offered something more acceptable. "Raise your head," he commanded. I lifted my head towards him, and he spoke directly to me. "I will throw birds from here. If you manage to hit just one bird out of thirty, it will be sufficient." Then he continued, "And I will grant any request you make." If refusal were in my favor, I would refuse all thirty birds and his request together. But it was not an offer; it was a gentle coercion that I couldn't reject. I curtsied once again. "As Your Majesty commands."

His command was to be handed a bow. I walked to a distance, where a servant stood with arrows. The empress moved randomly, not understanding what this old man was thinking and intending to harm her son.