Out of the corner of his eye, Ishamael could see that last flash of light right before the sun sank behind the mountains. The whole rose garden seemed to be aflame in that dull red light. The staff vanished as his hand trailed its way up her body to rest on her shoulder.

His smile was so soft, and there was no mockery in his eyes as he pulled back for a brief moment. Words were unnecessary, superfluous. He leaned back in to kiss her once more.