“To keep their identity concealed, of course,” the woman said. “Please don’t trouble yourself about them. They will not hurt you. One of their duties is to find suitable brides for the emperor. They observe the girls, nothing more. Some of you will be selected to meet Gahalatine. Now, since you are new here, you will stay in one of the dormitories on this level. You may come and go as you like. But to become noticed, you must display some form of talent. A talent for conversation, music—such as the lute,” she added, gesturing to the lute case Trynne wore over her shoulders. “Poetry, languages. If you impress the Mandaryn, you will be chosen to advance to the next tier.” She gestured toward an upper level. “There are more private rooms and higher rewards for those who are deemed exceptional. Some girls come here to heal after they have been . . . mistreated.” She gave Trynne a sympathetic look. “You may stay as long as you desire. Gahalatine blesses this place with food, leisure, and opportunity. Some of his generals are permitted to come here to choose wives. Listen for the sound of the trumpet. That is the signal that a dignitary has arrived. That will be your chance to impress them. If that is why you came. If not, well, perhaps you can learn new skills while you are here. Improve upon your talents.”

Someone was approaching them. Trynne turned toward the sound of footsteps and nearly gaped in shock. It was King Sunilik.

“I recognized your clothing from my beloved oasis!” Sunilik said in a charming voice. He was looking at her face, but his expression betrayed nothing. “You must be one of the minstrels who used to serve me. I think I may even recognize you. Welcome!”

The matronly woman looked pleased. “I thought you would want to know about her,” she said, bowing and flushing. “I was going to tell you straightaway.”

“You are always so thoughtful, Jenaya,” Sunilik said, pressing his hands together and bowing to her. “Thank you.” He turned to Trynne graciously, still not revealing even a hint that he knew her identity. “You must be missing the delicious fruits of the oasis! I have some brought here regularly. The zenana grounds are being expanded, you see, and I’m overseeing the undertaking. Follow me. It will give you a taste of home.”

“Thank you,” Trynne said, swallowing. She bowed to Jenaya, who excused herself and walked away.

“Well, my dear,” Sunilik said in a low voice. “When I first saw you, I imagined you were my daughter. As I drew closer, I recognized you for who you are.” He shook his head in disbelief and his voice dropped. “How is Reya?” he asked with a throb of concern. He gestured for her to keep following him.

“She is safe,” Trynne said, her stomach bubbling with excitement. “I had not expected to find you here of all places.”