"It is only proper that someone else assumes control of the harem," she continued, her gaze sliding toward Sorayah. "And that person... is Sorayah."
Shock coursed through the chamber.
Sorayah's eyes widened in disbelief, her mind reeling from the unexpected announcement. Beside her, Dimitri stiffened, his jaw tense.
"Huh?!" Mira was the first to speak, her voice rising sharply in disbelief. "Your Highness, Sorayah is just a concubine too! If anyone should be managing the harem, it should be you, not her!"
"You're right," the Empress Dowager responded coolly, her voice composed and deliberate. "Sorayah is a concubine. But I believe the Alpha Emperor will promote her. In fact, I'm confident he will. She deserves to be promoted."
The Empress Dowager turned gracefully to address the gathered women, her eyes sweeping over them with measured authority. Her tone grew clearer and sharper.
