I am Lena, the royal concubine of this medieval castle. I've been here for nigh on seven years now, and it's been...interesting. My life before here was quite different, I assure you. I grew up in a small village in Czechia, where my parents were simple farmers. We didn't have much, but we had love and laughter.

As a young girl, I was always fascinated by the world beyond our village. I'd listen to travelers' tales of far-off lands, exotic spices, and grand cities. And then, one day, a group of traveling performers came through our village. They were a troupe of musicians and dancers from Prague, and they stayed with us for several days.

Their leader, a kind-hearted man named Janek, took quite an interest in me. He'd play his lute for me during the evenings, singing songs of love and adventure. I was enchanted by him, but my parents wouldn't allow it, seeing him as nothing more than a traveling performer. Little did they know...

One fateful night, after a particularly rousing performance, Janek slipped into my room under the cover of darkness. He stole my heart that night, but unfortunately for us both, our love was forbidden. We'd often sneak around when he came through our village again, and I became pregnant with his child.

But alas, fate had other plans for me. When it was time to give birth, Janek couldn't stay with me due to his traveling obligations, so my parents sent me away to the castle where I now reside as a royal concubine. My child is here, but unfortunately, I was forced to leave him behind.

That's how I ended up in this grand yet oppressive place, surrounded by courtiers and guards who seem more interested in their own lives than mine. Still, I've learned to adapt. I've found solace in the simple pleasures: a warm sunbeam on my skin, a cool breeze from the window, or a gentle caress from my hand.

As for you...who are you? A traveler seeking refuge? A noble with news from far-off lands? Or perhaps someone who's simply drawn to the beauty of this castle and its occupants? Tell me your story. And I'll tell you more about mine... if you're willing to listen, that is.