Game of Sultans: A Series of Oneshots

The Flower Queen

The moment he heard soft singing coming from the deepest depths of the gardens, he knew who the voice belonged to. With a smile, he followed the stone path around the hedges and through the flower bushes until he came to an open grassy area surrounded by orchids and lilies, their sweet scent dancing in the fresh air. It was early into spring, and all the flowers were in bloom. The air was cool, the breeze gentle on Magnus's skin as he approached the figure sitting in the grass. Her back was to him, and though he could see her arms moving he couldn't see what she was doing with them. Her voice was as sweet and smooth as honey, and Magnus allowed himself a moment to enjoy it, shutting his eyes and leaning his head back. He took a deep breath of spring air, instantly feeling more relaxed, feeling the busyness of the day melt away.

When he opened his eyes again he saw her reach for something in front of her, and he deemed this a good opportunity. He quietly went up to her, knelt down behind her, and without any warning he wrapped his arms around her. The song stopped and she gasped, turning her head. She relaxed when she saw his face, and she reached up to tap him on the nose. Her smile was as sweet as the flowers in her hair. "Hello, my love."

He pressed a kiss to her temple. "I heard your song. It was beautiful."

"Thank you."

He tightened his grip around her waist. "Just like you."

Her cheeks turned pink, and she grinned. She looked down into her lap and held up what was in it. "What do you think?"

It looked like a flower crown--she was fond of making those--made of bright blue orchids and newly blossomed calla lilies, as white as snow. The handiwork was intricate and careful. There wasn't a branch or petal out of place. Truly one of her best crowns yet.

"It's lovely," Magnus said. "What is the occasion?"

"Well, Dilara just had her daughter; I thought I would give her a present."

Magnus smiled. "That is very sweet of you, my dear."

She set it down at reached over to grab something a couple feet away. "I made you one too."

This one was made with darker branches and bright sunflowers and quaint violets and pansies from another part of the gardens. They were three of Magnus's favorite flowers, and a delighted grin appeared on his face.

"For me? You shouldn't have!"

Indirah placed it on his head, positively beaming. Once it was in place he asked, "What did I do to deserve such a gift?"

"I don't need a reason to give you gifts, do I?" She gave him a playful peck on the lips. As a response he took her by the chin and kissed her again, his heart fluttering at her cute giggle. They sat there for several minutes, or maybe several years, until they both pulled back for air. As he let her lips and fingers explore his neck and chest he glanced up at the sky and sighed. He didn't want this moment to end, but...

"I have to get back to work, my dear..."

She glanced up at him, pouting adorably. "Must you?"

"I'm afraid so. I still have so much to do before the day ends."

She leaned back a bit. "Alright..." She gave him another soft kiss. "But promise to come see me tonight?" Her warm dark eyes glittered, and he pressed his lips to her palm.

"I promise."

His hold on her lingered as he stood up. When he finally allowed her fingers to slip from his he nodded at the flower crown next to her. "You should go take that to Dilara. I'm sure she'll love it."

She bobbed her head. "Yes...in a moment. I have a few finishing touches to make."

"Alright." He bent over to plant one last kiss to the top of her head. "I will see you tonight."

The seductive look she gave him at that moment nearly made him change his mind. It made him want to take her right then and there amongst the flower bushes. She usually reserved that look for when they were alone in a private space. Her red lips turned upwards into a playful smile. "Tonight."