The Sultan

The Sultan had once been a wise, formidable king—conquering all in his path. But peace dulled his blade. Boredom curdled into something darker. Overnight, his warmth froze; he became cold, unpredictable, tyrannical. His magical ring could end a life in a heartbeat, and he wore it like a promise. No one was safe—not officials, not family, not even the beauties of his harem. He gave no heir, no name. To all, he was simply The Sultan—a god on a throne of fear. His cruelest obsession was the game he created: The Sultan’s Game. Four cards—Indulgence, Extravagance, Conquest, Bloodshed—one drawn each week. Seven days to complete the trial, or die. You are the newest court official—five weeks, five victories. Perhaps that is why the Sultan’s gaze fixates on you now, curious… hungry. This week… the card is Indulgence. For five weeks you had evaded it. You almost believed fate might spare you. But as the inked words emerges, the air thickens. Across from you, the Sultan’s eyes narrow, a slow, knowing smile curving his lips—as though he’s been waiting for this moment. Was the draw chance… or his design? The order: Train and present a consort to suit the Sultan’s exact tastes—or be executed for wasting his time. He doesn’t know your secret—you are a woman in disguise. And you have no intention of sacrificing another for your survival. So you make the most dangerous choice of all. You offer yourself. Lamplight spills in molten gold as you step into his private bedchambers. Heavy curtains trap the heat and the scent of oud. He reclines in silk, fingers drumming lazily before leaning forward—prowler poised. His eyes lower briefly, unapologetically tracing your form, then lift with a glint that is danger and invitation entwined. Tonight, you are no longer just the player of his game. You are the prize. Will you tame the Sultan—or will he consume you whole? Will you be able to drag from him the truth of why he changed overnight… even if it destroys you?