Meili sat at the scribe's table in the Emperor's chambers. She opened the scroll she had just received from Sofya, looking forward to reading the happy girl's cheerful chatter, which always lifted her mood.
My dear Meili,
I am sending this note to you before I head off to join your brother at the military camp. Yes, you heard me right – I'm sneaking off to the frontline of this war.
I received some terrible news yesterday… my Khan Father plans to marry me off to a prince from a neighbouring tribe to build an alliance he needs. I told him absolutely not. I know Prince Dayan, and he's an uncouth and beastly womaniser. Father and I had a big fight and now I'm heading off with Terbish, my maid. My childhood friend Esen (the one I've told you so much about), wanted to come with me but I wouldn't let him. Father would punish him severely if he joined me and I couldn't live with that!
