The Sultan's Feast

[SexyChele]

Just over 1,000 years ago there lived a Sultan in a tiny country that was comparatively poor by its neighbors standards. During a raid of a foreign country, this Sultan's army succeeded in overcoming their enemies and brought back enormous wealth - so much wealth, in fact, that the Sultan's country was now wealthier than any of his neighbors.

Delighted and pleased with his army, the Sultan decided to give a feast in honor of his officers and officials. New furnishings were purchased for the palace, making it a place of opulence, wealth, and comfort. The Sultan brought in delicious delicacies, and the finest chefs to cook them. All manner of food and drink were to be served and made available to his guests.

The Sultan invited not only his army officers and advisors, but extended his generosity to the surrounding countries, and invited the leaders of other countries to come and partake of the feast he was to have. To show his appreciation, the Sultan also brought in the finest musicians, dancers, jugglars, magicians, and all other manner of entertainment.

Feeling particularly generous, the Sultan also combed the countryside and had only the most beautiful of girls brought to the palace for additional entertainment of his guests. Not to be left out, the Sultan included his concubines. His wives, however, were excluded from participating, except in entertaining him.

The Sultan sent messengers to the fartherest reaches of the known world to spread the word of the feast.

Walking about the corridors of his palace, the Sultan was very pleased with the results. All was in order. Every conceivable item for human pleasure was put into place and made available. The pantries were filled with every type of food and drink known to man. The musicians, dancers, and others who would offer entertainment were ready. The Sultan had viewed the girls and concubines, and found them to be very beautiful and pleasing.

He settled onto the cushions in the palace throne room, and awaited the arrival of his guests. He asked that the girls and concubines be brought in to greet the guests. As they filtered in, bowing to him before taking their place alongside the wall, he smiled. Beauties every one. Some he knew were virgins, others well versed in how to please and be pleased. Some were more than willing to be there, and others were going to require to be broken into learning the pleasures of the flesh.

He sighed deeply, catching the eye of his number 1 concubine, Atara. She had raven hair and eyes that were dark as night. Her skin was flawless and smooth, the color of cinnamon. Her body was lush and full, the curves of a woman - indeed he had watched that body many times as it undulated before him, dancing in time with the palace musicians. He smiled at her, and she briefly smiled back before lowering her eyes in respect for her master and lord. Ah, yes. Atara, though not a citizen of his country, had come to know his ways well. She had learned the craft of pleasing a man, or a woman, very well, and he was pleased with her. He was not certain he was willing to share her, but he knew his generosity should extend to all.

Atara, smiled to herself, eyes lowered, heart racing. She was thrilled with the prospect of being out of the harem, of meeting new people, experiencing new thrills of the flesh. She waited anxiously for the arrivals, her heart pounding.




OOC: This is a completely open thread. Anyone and everyone is welcome to post. I do ask that you post your character to the OOC for this thread (entittled "OOC: The Sultan's Feast"), so we don't end up with a bunch of OOC's here. Please feel free to enter whenever you wish. If you feel your time here is done, there will be no hard feelings, only the hope that you enjoyed your time here. If you have any questions, please post them to the OOC or PM me.

Let the feasting begin!

 

[Suave Intent]

Unequivocal anger surged throughout the young ruler's entire being as he threw the royal parchment to the ground. But two months ago, the Kingdom of Alistat had reigned superior to every other nation within the world. But now...A sigh of frustration escaped past the barrier of his lips as he glanced towards the advisors of his court. Each royal courtesan shrinking back from underneath his unyielding gaze as he stepped forth and out of the cushions of his throne. Sinewy muscles straining agianst the custom-tailored cloth of his royal silks as the ocean-hued material flowed tranquily upon his form. Angelic visage held without a single blemish as he spoke with undeniable masculinity. Power and strength intertwined within each syllable he spoke as he continued to fixate his gaze upon the others.

"Never in the History of my Ancestors has the Kingdom of Alistat fallen second to ANY other land! And now this...this mockery of an invitation so that he my flaunt his newfound prowess! I think not...I will go to this Feast to maintain diplomatic relations, but I swear upon my Father's grave that I will satiate my lust for vengeance. We will utterly and completely destroy the Sultan and all he stands for; and once again, our Kingdom will surpass the aspirations of any other Kingdom to follow!"

His words were met with a great cheer as his fellow countrymen found a sense of loyalty they had never before known. He knw that the morale of his country rested upon being the best, and that title would once again be attained. His blade had remained unmarred for far too long, and its polished surface craved the vitae of his enemies. Sure it was a rather foolish thing to go to war over, but pride would either become his savior, or his downfall. For the duration of his life so far, it had acted as the former. A swirl of his cape was thus given as he turned upon his heel. Soled boots embracing the marbel floor as he carried himself down the hallways in preparation for the festivities.


The Feast
The night had come all too soon, and the trumpets were blaring with the Lord of Alistat's arrival. Elegant creatures of magnificent grace came trampling down the cobblestone path as an equally glorified carriage was carried within its wake. Royal blue was the color of choice, and the noble rider was adorned completely within the ocean-hued cloth as gold embroidery outlined the emblem of his country. Emotionless countenance evident upon the features of his face was given in a hope not to offer any humiliation fo his Lord, yet any such embarrasment would have dissolved within the moment any laid eyes upon him.

Clothed within the finest of azure silks, he radiated beauty and strength. Sculpted physique held evident underneath the custom-tailored outfit as soled boots carried him within a series of endless movements. Viridian depths wandering about with an almost arrogant curiousity as cinnamon-tinged flesh was held apparent underneath the bright torches that lit his path. In comparison to the Sultan, he was pure perfection. Created from the Realm of Heaven yet deposited upon the realm of mankind, he acted as a constant reminder that one was to remain humble and filled with humility. If only those attributes would have associated themselves with Valic, he would not hold such a bitter resentment for the Sultan's newfound wealth. Yet just as he passed the threshold of entrance and into the elaborate ballroom which was to act as the reception hall for all the Nobles, he couldn't help but notice the line of concubines that displayed itself before them. If the Sultan wasn't all to intelligent for sparking the anger of the nation of Alistat, it was smart in its ways to deal with foreign affairs...Yet one such concubine favored his attention. A raven-haired beauty of foreign decent, he allowed for his gaze to remain focussed a bit too long. A sign of weakness to any whom beheld, it proved that Valic too was simply mortal.

 

[SexyChele]

Atara

As the trumpets heralded the arrival of the first dignitary, Atara gracefully dropped to her knees and bent at the waist, her forehead briefly touching the polished floor. The new red silk that comprised her costume billowed around her before gently settling to the floor. Rising as the latest arrival entered, Atara stood with her head held high, eyes lowered, her hands folded in front of her. The red silk set off the color of her skin and hair, and hugged her body just enough to hint at the curves beneath. The Sultan had insisted the costume be cut low, the tops of her breasts exposed.

Atara felt a tingle run through her spine, and tried to fight the urge to look up. She knew it was forbidden to look upon another man other than the Sultan or the guards of the harem without being told to do so. However, she felt compelled to look up, briefly. What she saw caused her breath to catch in her throat.

He seemed to her almost as a god, wrapped in the very heavens from above. His dark hair hung about his shoulders, his build was muscular. The essense of his masculinity almost radiated from him throughout the room. But it was his eyes that kept Atara's attention. Far longer than discretion demanded, she held the stranger's glance, until she heard the guard whisper her name. Knowing if the Sultan were to see her openly staring he could have her whipped, she quickly lowered her eyes.

However, she could not forget the look in his eyes, his build, the confidence in his stride. Listening intently for the introduction, she learned his name was Valic, and his kingdom was Alistat. She had heard of this kingdom, but not much more. She had been brought to the Sultan's harem at 17, innocent and a virgin, and in keeping with tradition, had not had contact with any from outside the harem but for a few.

Her heart pounding in her chest, her fingers toying with each other, she repeated the name over and over...

"Valic, Valic...."

What would become of him? Would he choose her for this evening's pleasure? Or would one of the other girls capture his attention instead? In this world of men, she could only wait, hope, and tremble at the thought.

 

[ariosto]

Haroun watched the spectacular entry of the ruler of Alistat with great disdain and the reaction of Atara with more than passing interest.
"Girl...get over here."

The concubine lowered her gaze and approached her Master.
He leaned forward and took her chin in his hands...
"Do not set your desires on that popinjay, my sweet. I think I may allow the Caliph to have you tonight."

The girl shuddered, Mustapha Ali the Caliph was a shrunken wizened degenerate who made his women...

A delightful laugh interupted her dark reverie as one of the Sultan's daughters stepped from behind her Father and pointed an elegant long nailed figure at the dark tressed houri.

"Yes give the slut to Mustapaha daddy. She grows to bold by far."

Haroun placed a loving arm around the young princess and kissed her softly on the lips.
"Now now, my dear...be not so quick to judge...unless...unless...
It's YOU who seeks the favors of that hapless Prince!"

Haroun stood up from the cushions of saffron silk and a hush fell across the room. Even now at his age he was a tall and imposing man. His clear gray eyes skewered Valic like those of a hawk...

"Prince...welcome, come forth and meet my daughters and....
MY concubine."

 

[papillon24]

Larina

I stepped out from behind my father a bit shyly at first then knealed by his side. I understood that the prince was somewhat of a rival to my father. I removed my delicate vail from my face and bowed in consideration to our guest.

I felt a shiver as the cool night air blew accross my body.

I looked up at father who glared at the man with eyes of a hawk.

"Father," I wispered "Who is he and what am I to do?" I raised myself from where I bowed to look to my father for guidence

 

[Suave Intent]

Provocation...It's just so..****.

An intrigued expression overcame the chiseled contours of his face as he bore witness to the events that transpired upon the upraised dias before him. Defined limbs crossing behind him only managed to further emphasize his posture as he allowed for agile digits to intermingle with one another, lacing together within a tightening grip as calcuated movements came to an inevitable rest. Growing fury culminating within him as he was made a victim to view the Sultan's barbaric manner. Even if one possessed the riches of the world, it did not make him excusable to a lack of civility. A trait that was easily discernable within the ruler before him as the Prince allowed for a suave grin to manipulate against crimson-stained flesh. Even if an unfathomable hatred of the Sultan laid dormaint within him, the emotion was masked within a facade of false friendship and charm.

"You humble me with your splendor, Sultan. I thank you for your invitation, and your hospitality. As for your daughters..."

Twin depths of peridot occulars resting upon the only one present. Right hand extending forth with everlasting patience before her own hand was taken within his. Calloused fingertips resting gently against the velvet-soft surface before he elevated the dainty hand towards the heavens. Merlot-tinged lips placing a feather-light kiss upon its surface as his gaze never once parted from her eyes.

"It is my pleasure."

Her hand now released from its unpredicted prison as he allowed for his gaze to now rest upon the concubine the Sultan had boldly stated as his own property. Valic knew that if his lust was to be fully satiated, he would have to manipulate the girl's loyalty towards that of his own. A task that would not be easy, but most definately not impossible. A rather deviant smile caressing against his lips as he focussed his attention back upon the pompous lord before him.

"However, I must disagree. Women do not belong to a single man, for they should be free to make their own decisions. Only when she comes to you freely will you understand the full passion that the female specimen has to offer."

Although his gaze was completely isolated upon the Sultan, there was no doubt to any present that his words were bodly directed towards the girl upon her knees.

 

[ALOHA]

Milla

She walked with downcast eyes behind her master, Abu, the richest merchant in the land, who was invited to the Sultan's feast. He was bringing a gift for the Sultan, a beautiful virgin slave, a girl with skin as white as snow, hair as black as midnight, and eyes as green as emeralds. People in those regions were usually olive to dark skinned, and brown to black eyed. It was her eyes that made people afraid of her, also her quiet and serene demeanor, making them think she was a sorceress. And that was why she never stayed long with one master, and no one had attempted to take her virginity.

Abu had a hidden reason for bringing his gift. He wanted to become the palace's sole supplier for everything from foodstuff to clothes; from jewelery to weapons. If the Sultan granted him that, he would be the richest man in the continent!

They arrived at the palace, and were told to enter. The Sultan was receiving another guest, Valic the ruler of Alistat. They waited respectfully until they would be told to approach.

 

[Suave Intent]

A lil' correction that's like...a pet peeve of mine

ALOHA, could you do me a favor and edit sorcerer to sorceress? I know it's not a big deal, but it's like...gnawing at my every being. Heh.

 

[SexyChele]

Atara

Having been summoned to the side of the Sultan, Atara could tell by his voice that he was displeased with her. His threat to give her over to the Caliph might indeed ring false - but it could also be very true.

Atara kept her eyes lowered though she bristled at the words of the Sultan's daughter. The influence of the his daughter over the Sultan only served to make Atara more fully aware of how lowly her station was within this walls.

As the Sultan stood before the handsome ruler, it was evident that the two were on guard as two lions would be over the same prey. Allowing herself to raise her eyes slightly, Atara could see the stance of the young ruler, and she marvelled at what little she saw of him. What exposure to men she had had was very limited, and she felt a strange pull from deep within her. She felt the ruler's glance in her direction, but she did not know if he looked upon her or upon the Sultan's daughter. Checking herself, Atara had to admit that if it were an alliance the ruler was seeking, he would certainly find it with her Master's daughter. If he were looking for a evening of pleasure, then his glance might fall upon her.

Atara held her breath as she heard others entering the great hall. Looking up, she noticed a merchant of some sort leading in a woman who was most extraordinary. Even from the distance of the throne room, Atara was captivated by her eyes - deep pools of bright green.

Feeling the look of the handsome young Valic once more on her, Atara quickly dropped her eyes to his feet. Her heart was pounding fast and she could hear the blood rushing in her ears. Would tonight be the evening the Sultan would give her to another? Or would he keep her for his own pleasure?

 

[ariosto]

Haroun looked at the prince with a bemused expression on his face and then laughed.
"But I disagree with you!...yes most entirely do I disagree!"

Reaching down he lifted Atara to her feet and turned her to stand between himself and Valic.
"This girl IS mine... beautiful isn't she? Show this man the round plumpness of your breasts girl."
She blushed furiously but reached behind to loosen the thin veils that covered her bosom.
"Why I believe that she has set her eyes upon you Prince, which will do her no good until I command it. Isn't that so little one?"
Atara dropped her eyes and nodded.

"Look you there."
Haroun pointed to the fat waddling form of the merchant Abu and the extraordinary girl who walked with him.
"I could with a snap of my fingers make Atara strip naked and pleasure that swine right here in front of you."

"Yessss Daddy, make her...make her."
Haroun's nymph of a daughter's face flushed at the thought of it.
"Quiet daughter...if I should so command it then you shall watch it all."

"Sire!"
Abu had fallen to his knees before the Sultan and the Prince.
"My Lord, I have brought you a rare treasure."

Haroun brushed past Valic and raised the fat merchant to his feet but never taking his gaze from the emerald eyed girl.

"And what, my friend might that be?"

 

[SuthrnKit10]

Shinaa

"Nya!! You'll be whipped for sure!! Put it back!!" the older woman's hissed whisper registered in Shinaa's ears, but her lips curved in a smile nonetheless, and she gently tucked a second glistening bunch of grapes into a hidden recess somewhere under her threadbare clothes.

"Calm yourself, you old fool. If the Sultan cannot afford to feed the rest of us in this way, then he should simply set us free so that we may feed ourselves." The statement rang out much louder than she had intended, and Shinaa saw the older woman cringe then glance feverishly around. No heavy hand fell to her shoulder, ready to deliver punishment, and Shinaa let loose a small sigh of relief. As she scanned the room, her eyes fell on Atara who was presently being slavered over as a piece of meat between two dogs. Her expression grew puzzled. Of all the sniping cows in the harem, Shinaa had to admit that Atara had never treated her with less than civility. She had never whined, bitched or beckoned like a Sultana, and for that, Shinaa was greatlful. She almost felt sorry for the girl, as she noticed the looks passing between the Sultan and the handsome stranger over her head, but strangely enough, Atara seemed to be enjoying the possessive play. Discreetly, Shinaa let her eyes flow over the Sultan from head to toe. She could not dispute that he was an attractive male ... and lately she had wondered (idly and in secret of course) what it would be like to belong to him, to actually be a part of his harem. But her mind quickly drew rein on her raging hormones, and she remembered each and every time that he was a possessive scoundrel. He did as he wished, when he wished, and no one was there to tell him otherwise, least of all a woman. Filching a tender plum from a nearby table, she ducked into the shade of a freestanding pillar to enjoy it, her eyes still watching the spectacle up front. Another woman had been presented. Just what she needed, another waspish beauty to order her about. At long last, she let her eyes come to rest on the strange new Prince. From this far away he almost looked ... enticing? She cleared the thought with a disgusted shake of her dark head. Safe. He almost looked safe. A frown creased her delicate features and she rolled her eyes at her own foolishness. Safe indeed. Even from across the room the cut of his robes told of the hidden, panther-like power hidden beneath. He would, no doubt, be like all the rest. Obssessive. Possessive. And positively sickening.

 

[Lord Kenshin]

Akarri

Akarri stood silently against a pillar, keeping a careful eye upon his Sultan and good friend. The Sultan had told him to be relaxed and comfortable, but he had this sinking feeling that if he relaxed, his beloved friend would fall victim to some horrible assasain. He scoffed softly under his breath as he watched the peasant, though beautiful in her own way, steal grapes from the table. She placed them under her thin clothing, causing Akarri to wonder where in the world she could be hiding that much food. He cast his away away from the lady, turning his attention to the Sultan's daughter for only a moment before turning a cold gaze upon the prince, scoffing again. He let his finger tips gently run along the rim of his sword handle, not willing to take any chances at this feast.

Akarri wandered around behind the Sultan, gazing down upon the cuncubbine(spelling is horrible guys) before looking at the prince, taking a stand on the right side of the throne, his bright emerald hues shining with interest. He listened to the soft sweet voice of the Princess, smirking at what she wished of the cuncubbine. He wouldn't mind watching, though actions upon himself would probally please him more.

 

[papillon24]

Larina

I wathced as more of the guest started to arrive behind mt fathers Rival. A new slave, maybe one for me to play with. I could only hope. I scanned the room with my dark eyes and noticed Akarri drist throught the room in anticipation of the night to come. I glaced over to him and caught his eyes.

"I would like to be yours tonight my love" I mouthed to him from where I sttod next to my father.

Akarri had always been kind to me as he always treated my with the respect only given to other men in these parts. I felt that he was my love but is was forbidden for us to be together due to his status as a warrior and not a prince.

I turned to father" Father may I please excuse myself in order to ready myself for my performance?You know all the guest enjoy it. I know you do too. Please" hoping to sneak away for a bit to speak with my Akarri

 

[SuthrnKit10]

Shinaa's wandering mind was snapped rudely back to attention when she felt a sudden ruthless yank on her hair. One of the concubines stood behind her, a delicate, jasmine-scented hand with sharp little nails pressed painfully against Shinaa's scalp.

"Get back to work, slave. There is no time to stand around. Carry the wineskin around for the Sultan's guests, or you'll have the flesh flayed from your back once more." The woman's eyes spit daggers, and Shinaa seethed at her condescending tone.

"As ... you ... wish." She ground out the words between clenched teeth, then snatched the wineskin from the table behind them, letting the gaping tip tilt until dark amber liquid flowed out and splattered the woman's gown. With a devilish grin, Shinaa ducked and slipped back into the crowd of people just as she heard the high pitched scream of aggravation. She'd pay for that one, she knew, but by Allah it was worth it. Circling the room, she set to her task, offering the wineskin to any who showed interest. After a full circle, she realized with a sinking stomach that the portly merchant was waving her over. He still stood directly in front of the Sultan, and now the Prince as well. Tucking her head and shuffling aimlessly, she came forward and offered the wheezing man a drink. She studied the floor and dared not look up.

 

[Suave Intent]

Calm Reflections

Quite the plethora of individuals this Feast had gathered, no? However, a question continued to lurk deep within the farthest recesses of his mind as he noted the apparent lack of royal dignitaries from the Sultan's neighboring countries. If it had been his own celebration, the palace's reception hall would be full and bustling with the various activities of prominent figures and regal courtesans. But alas, he was gracing the Kingdom that was far lesser than that of his own. An almost arrogant smile thus tightened against his lips as he heard the Sultan's spiteful words. A lift of ebony acting as the only visible response before honeysweet tones soon filled the air.

"Tsk, Tsk, Tsk, 'Milord'"

Heavy emphasis placed upon the last word.

"Such idle threats are unbefitting of man of your...stature."

A somewhat amused expression overtaking the lines of his face as he took great pleasure within his play on words. To be able to comment upon another's mannerims was a bold move, and the fact that he had done so rather nonchalantly would no doubt infuriate the Sultan to make true with his threats. Yet, if such a move were to be pursued, there was no doubt within his mind that intervention on his behalf would be inescapable. As much was evident within the core of peridot eyes as he fixated his gaze upon the lasvicious concubine before him. Attention reluctantly diverting itself back upon the Sultan as that coy smirk was once again plastered upon his lips.

"But this is a celebration, and I do forget myself. I thank you for your invitation and hospitality. I only hope that one day you will be a guest in my Palace as I have been within your own."

Of course, it need not be spoken that as a guest, the Sultan would have been preferable chained and gagged. Meant to march within all his naked "splendor" throughout his Palace's corridors before being summarily executed. If only that prospect could be fulfilled...

And all the while, the smile was retained. What a charming individual we had upon our hands, if only one could evoke a reaction in which his near indestructable facade would shatter and the real Valic would make himself apparent.

 

[ALOHA]

Milla

The waddling Abu wheezed when he got back to his feet, then bent low to the Sultan, and with an oily smile said: "This, oh Haroun, this rare virgin with emerald eyes, that I purchased for an extrodinary high price, especially to present to my one and only master", he exuded, even though he'd paid peanuts for her. "No man has laid his hands on her as yet, and she's as pure as driven snow."

Inwardly, Milla smiled at the lies the fat man was telling. As soon as he'd brought her to his home, he'd called her to his chamber and ordered her to strip. Then his pudgy hands had fondled her, and he would have deflowered her, if she hadn't intoned some mantras in a foreign tongue, something she'd invented, to authenticate the image of sorceress people accused her of. Besides, she'd stared at him with her green eyes, until his hands dropped away from her body, and she could put her clothes back on. The frightened Abu had not put a finger on her again, and the next day when he received Haroun's invitation, he decided to try to exchange the girl for some favors from the Sultan.

She eyed the Sultan from behind her veil. A middle aged man, but large, well preserved and good looking. She didn't think she'd mind living in the palace. Even with his many wifes and concubines. She would win his heart and then the others would see.

Haroun stared at her, and Abu pushed her forwards, so that she stood right in front of him. "If my Lord would deign to accept my gift, I will be the happiest man on earth," Abu gushed. He pushed Milla's shoulder down, so she was forced to kneel in front of the Sultan. Milla felt all eyes on her, men and women alike. She touched her head to the ground in front of Haroun's sandaled feet, and said in a voice so clear and beautiful that everyone in the room stopped to speak: "My Lord, I pledge myself, body and soul to your Highness, to use and dispose of at will."

<<OOC: dunno if this is appropriate, but so what, this is just a fantasy, right?>>

 

[ariosto]

"Rise up girl." His hand cupped her chin and she rose gracefully from the floor...."Turn around."
She did so, slowly...provacatively.
As he watched her the Sultan spoke. He spoke so quietly that Prince Valic at first did not realise the words were for him...

"Thou scented piece of offal, thou camel dung in effete robes fit only for eunuch or a woman. How dare you enter my sanctuary with such an air of bravado of imagined superiority. Before the night is over worthless scum of dromedary spit you shall be groveling before me and begging for your miserable life."

Haroun turned slowly to the appaled and outraged prince.
"What do you think of her, eh?
A fine present this Abu has brought me."

Valic was confused, had he not just heard vile vituperations dripping like stinging bile from this mans lips!

The Sultan walked back up onto the dias not giving him time to answer.

"My daughter prepares to dance for you, dear guests..."
As he spoke, slaves wheeled out long tables laden with fruit and delicacies of a hundred kinds.

"Please be seated.
Prince Valic shall sit with my dearest concubine, the flower of the Seraglio, Atara...
Lord Akkari by my daughter when she has finished her performance...
Milla, my gift from Abu shall sit with me, as shall....Shinaa."

All eyes turned to the servant girl, who nearly dropped her pitcher!
Her pretty mouth formed the silent words, 'why me?'

"Because," Haraun announced, "It pleases me."

 

[SexyChele]

Atara

Watching the spectacle unfold from beneath her lashes, Atara felt the strong tension in the air. She bit her lip, excited and at the same time almost fearful.

The sudden movement from the wall caught her glance, and she watch as Amina once more tried to torment Shinaa. The poor girl was given no rest in the harem - it was thought she was too unkempt for the Sultan's eyes. Indeed, it did seem as though she went out of her way to make her appearance seem less than desirable. Atara watched as Shinaa grabbed the wineskin, tipping the contents onto the fine silk of Amina's newest costume. Lowering her head quickly, Atara tried hard to stiffle the giggle that rose to her throat.

Atara thought back to the time when she had first been brought to the harem of the Sultan. Harems were notorious for the political intrigue that festered within their silken walls, and the Sultan's was no different. His latest favorite was equally reviled and loved, shunned and pampered. Those who had fallen out of favor plotted schemes to cause the favored one to share their fate. Those who hoped to become the favored one often copied the ways of the one presently honored. But, it was to be her home for the rest of her days. Very few escaped with their lives. Besides the women of the harem, the Sultan was a kind and generous man with women. Yet, there were so many occupying the harem, there were some women he had seemingly forgotten still lived within his palace.

The Sultan's words came to her like a shock.

"Prince Valic shall sit with my dearest concubine, the flower of the Seraglio, Atara... "

Raising her head, Atara accidently met the gaze of the handsome ruler. Knowing she might be punished for looking another man fully in his eyes, she somehow could not bring herself to draw away. Only a light shove from the Sultan's daughter reminded of her place.

Lowering her eyes to the floor, Atara stepped down from the dias and approached the young ruler. He seemed to bristle with the veiled insults levelled against him, yet he continued to stand tall.

"If my lord will follow me, I shall show him to his seat."

Atara slowly lifted her eyes up to Valic, only to notice he was looking at the Sultan as though he were to speak. His gaze shifted suddenly to her, and he nodded.

Gracefully walking across the polished floor, Atara led Valic to the cushions reserved for the distinguished guests of the Sultan. Waiting for Valic to sink into the cushions, Atara added a few more for his comfort, before sinking to her knees next to him. She reached out for the golden wine pitcher, and poured a generous amount into the prince's goblet. Taking the goblet into her hands, she quietly took a tiny sip, to show the prince that there was neither poison in his wine nor on the goblet, then handed it to him, her eyes focused on his chest, her breathing shallow.

 

[papillon24]

Larina

I disapeared behind the curtians ans the music began. I quickly veiled my face and grabbed my scarves. I waited axiosly as the curtians opened and I could see the guest all sitting at table around the room.

I exited as the music started and I could feel all eyes rest on me. I gracefully glided accross the floor and moved my hips to the music. I moved in beat but included the traditional bow to my father as he noddes approvingly. The silken scarves flowed around my body as I spun and swirled to the beat of the drums and the sining of the flute.

 

[Lord Kenshin]

Akarri

Akarri was shocked as he watched the Princess's beautiful lips mouthed the words his heart had longed to here. He was snapped back to attention when the Sultan began talking again.

"Lord Akarri by my daughter when she finishes her performance," the Sultan spoke aloud.

Akarri's jaw almost dropped to the ground, his hands falling limp in front of him as he looked to the Sultan, then to the Princess. This victory must have changed the Sultan's ways indeed.

Akarri moved silently to the table, taking a seat next to where Shinaa was supposed to sit next to the Sultan. He pulled the chair out for the young slave and then helped move her in close to the table before taking his own seat beside her. He made sure to leave a space open for his love to come and have a seatr when she finished.

Akarri turned slowly, his eyes gracefully falling upon the Princess's beautiful features as she stepped out from behind the curtains, moving his hips back and forth like it was natural for a body to move so precisely.

 

[SuthrnKit10]

For the first time in her life, Shinaa was completely speechless. Her mind foundered as she took her seat, the pitcher of wine quickly passed into the hands of another willing slave. She favored Akarri with a slight nod of thanks as he helped her settle beside the Sultan. From the looks of things, the warrior would have his prize tonight, one she knew he had been craving for quite a while. She admired his devout loyalty to the Sultan, even if she found it a bit misplaced. Speaking of, she turned fastening her gaze on the Sultan's face. If one must be punished, might as well make it worthwhile, it was simply Allah's good grace which had him intent on watching his daughter's performance. Shinaa studied him intently, as if through his visage she could learn the workings of his mind. His face was pleasant to look upon, a bit stern in the jaw, and a bit fierce around the eyes, but nonetheless attractive. His shoulders were more broad than she had envisioned from afar, and she had the sudden image of her own hands sliding over his bronzed skin.

He must have felt the intensity of her eyes, for he turned, his own gaze barely catching hers as she returned her attention to the floor. She was suddenly very aware of the way her hair hung limp and her oversize clothes fell straight before her. She waited for the words that would seal her fate ... waited to be sent to the post once again. NO ONE, not the captain of his guard nor any of his daughters dared look the Sultan in the eye. It was the highest insult. Though why it should be so continued to escape her. Unable to contain herself any longer, Shinaa sealed her fate. She turned and looked the Sultan once more in the eye. Though she whispered, she knew she still took her life in her hands when she dared speak.

"Tell me, what exactly is your intent your grace? I have nothing to offer you, and certainly I cannot appeal to your," she threw a disdainful eye around at the collection of concubines," finer tastes. So what is it you wish of me?"

 

[ALOHA]

Milla

Her eyes cast down, Milla followed the Sultan up the dais, and when he sat down on his pillow, she and the other girl, Shinaa, sat on the rich carpet to the left and right of him.

She furtively eyed the Caliph from the corner of her eye. A good looking and good hearted man, it seemed, although he may well be old enough to be her father.

Suddenly she started, the other servant girl, Shinaa had turned to the Sultan and looked him in the eye, saying: "Tell me, what exactly is your intent your grace? I have nothing to offer you, and certainly I cannot appeal to your finer tastes. So what is it you wish of me?"

Everyone knew that looking the Ruler in the face was forbidden. Why was she doing it? Milla feared for the girl, feared the Sultan's wrath.

 

[Suave Intent]

Calm Before the Storm

And as the Sultan had the audacity to speak to one of his guests within such a manner, the young ruler could not help but feel his cheeks turn red in anger. Astonished and outraged by the other's harsh words, it took him all the will and self-restraint he had to not insult the Sultan within a series of stinging blows that would have left him desensatized and stunned. However, such a response would only prove the Sultan to be the better advesary, and he no such intention. Thus, an unsettling smile was all that the Sultan recieved. The guests, to say the least, were shocked and completely baffled with the Prince of Alistat's reaction. Surely he would not allow the Sultan to so rudely treat the Royal Courtesan, would he? The calm and collect voice that soon echoed throughout the Palace's hall would act as the only answer they would attain from the questions lurking deep within their mind.

"You dissapoint me, Sultan. To simply threaten one of my position is considered a declaration of war, and with half your forces still remaining to subdue rebellions in your newly attained lands, it is virtual suicide. Now would you rescind your comments, or shall I leave upon this moment to draw up the documents needed to set Alistat upon a course of war with your own."

Unyeilding gaze never once ceasing within its intensity as he followed the concubine to his seat. Lush pillows soon relieving of his weight as he allowed for a single hand to draw gently across Atara's femine chin, rounded fingertips outlining slender arms before the chalice was grasped within his palm. A generous amount allowed to filter between crimson-tinged mouth as he allowed for the tension to take hold. So thick was the atmosphere that a butter knife would have been able to sever the air itself.

"So Sultan, what is your choice?"

 

[ariosto]

Haroun on a tear...


Haroun barely looked at Prince Valic, instead he boldly met the eyes of the serving girl, who colored instantly and dropped her own in embarassment,
"Because girl," He raised her chin in his long fingers, "I grow weary of the perfumed harridans that make up my seraglio. With few exceptions," he nodded at Atara, "They are without worth and I find them contemptable. I have ordered them all, nearly all, to be put to death at dawn."

The Dining Hall had grown as still as a tomb.
The little Princess all prepared to dance stood stock still, color draining from her face. Her Mother....

Slowly he turned his hawk like face to the 'visiting'Prince of Alistat.

"It's true that half my army is deployed in far countries, but YOU are deployed in my Banquet Hall."
Suddenly two giant scimitar armed eunuchs appeared behind Valic.

"Please allow these special attendents to wait upon you dear Prince. I'm sure you'll understand my caution since rumour has it
that you plot the termination of my Kingdom's moment in the Sun...as well as my own."
Standing suddenly, tall and imperious, Haroun clapped his hands...

"What do we wait for? Let the Feast begin!"

 

[SuthrnKit10]

Shinaa vaguely watched the exchange between the Sultan and the Prince, but her ears rang with the previous declaration...

"I have ordered them all, nearly all, to be put to death at dawn."

A shiver ran down her spine, and she refused to raise her eyes once again. Had her impertinence spelled death for so many? Or had the Sultan truly been tiring of his harem? Nonetheless, she made a wise decision to hold her tongue.

The princess, fear still riding high in her expression, began to dance, and the concubines, most of them having been blissfully ignorant to the exchange, still chattered like a flock of hens across the room. Shinaa fastened a look on the newest concubine, still seated across from her at the Sultan's feet. There was fear hiding there as well, but the girl raised her chin and maintained a serene expression. Shinaa felt a grudging respect for her strength, and sought to reassure her. When the sultan stood and clapped his hands, Shinaa reached over and clasped the girl's hand in her own.

"You have just come to us, you should be safe. We shall speak to Atara and perhaps she can try to intervene on your behalf." The idea had struck in an instant, and she sent a glance to Atara, who was still sitting quietly next to the newly guarded and silently seething prince. They locked eyes for a moment, and Shinaa could not prevent the apologetic expression that fixed itself to her features. She and Atara were safe, that much the Sultan had made clear. But once again she wondered. Would she be responsible for the deaths of everyone else? Certainly some of them were deserving, Amina's condescending sneer immediately came to mind. But what of those who were not?

The decision was made in an instant, and Shinaa barely had time to realize it came from her own mind. She would be a slave to the Sultan, share his bed if he wished it, and answer his every wish. She knew she was untrained, but she also knew if she pleaded, then Atara would teach her, the beautiful woman's heart was good, and she would agree with why it must be done. It was perhaps the only way Shinaa could save those undeserving of death.