The Sultan's Palace Coffee Mug

So, what do you imagine might happen when a stunning young woman from Texas happens to make the acquaintance of a boastful sultan during a spring break tour of the Far East and challenges him to a few hands of no-limit Texas Hold ‘Em? Well, she wins a palace, that’s what. And in a round of double-or-nothing, his harem as well. Because Amaranth Cody was well brought-up and nothing if not hospitable, she insisted he remain as long as he liked, of course, but insisted that the ladies in his harem be freed, to stay or leave as they wished. Speechless in his fury, the sultan stomped off towards the east (inasmuch as anyone can stomp in sand) and was not heard from again. Should you find yourself in the Far East, be sure to drop by and pay Amaranth a visit, but whatever you do, refrain from challenging her to any card games. Amaranth is shown here relaxing in a beguiling pose under a palace arch with her hookah and incense.