His Harem, His Women, and His Woman

The late afternoon sun casts long shadows across the courtyard of a noble household in 16th-century Persia. Servants bustle about, putting the final touches on preparations for a grand banquet. Inside, thirteen-year-old Omeed is sprawled across her bed, lost in a book, her legs dangling carelessly.

Her handmaiden, Zoya, enters, gently urging her to prepare. Omeed's father, the Nazir, has returned from court and requested her presence. A sense of unease settles over Omeed; her father usually waits until after supper for their audience.

She joins her father, noticing the deep worry lines etched on his face. He speaks of danger, of not having much time left, and reveals that he has put her name forward as a prospective bride for the Crown Prince as a way to protect her. Omeed's young mind struggles to grasp the gravity of the situation, asking why she can't just die with her parents if they are in danger. Her father embraces her, reassuring her of their love and granting her permission to visit the market the next day with Zoya and Atash, a rare freedom.