"Nefertari... I mean, the Queen is unwell? Oh, that is terribly unfortunate!" Isetnofret placed a bejewelled hand on her chest in surprise. "Whatever shall you do? She is to be the one by your side at the parade!"

Ramses did well to disguise his displeasure. With the Queen being with child, morning sickness was to be expected. Yet, the palace was now scrambling for the sickness came about so suddenly. Ramses, too, could very well see through Isetnofret's feigned sympathy.

"And that, my dear, is where you come in!" He smiled brightly, imitating the same level of sarcasm that had been in her voice. Yet, she remained unfazed as she widened her arms to welcome an embrace.

"Luckily for you, my afternoon is free," she stood on her toes to fleetingly kiss his cheek.

His gaze narrowed down on her. "And I thought you would want to take Nefertari's place at the parade. It would not bother me in the slightest to ask one of your other sisters. I am sure one of them would rejoice at the chance to be the focus of attention."

"Oh, my husband, do not tease me so!" She laughed heartily, the jewels in her wig tinkling as she did so. 

"Of course, I am thrilled to meet my new sister," she almost purred to soothe the Pharaoh's demeanour.

"Then I can expect you to behave and treat her with kindness and the respect that she deserves," Ramses ordered with a stern tone. 

"Of course, my love, the respect she deserves as a Princess."

Ramses' frown deepened. "Exactly."

Unfazed, Isetnofret looked away from him. "Am I not a princess, my King? Even if it is still only by marriage, is it not true?"

He sighed and crossed his arms. He knew where this could potentially lead. "It is," he confirmed.

She turned to face him then, her black eyes piercing his.

"Then where has the kindness and respect for me gone?" She bit.

Ramses groaned and turned to leave. "I do not have time for this, Isetnofret."

She took him by the arm and pulled him back to her. With this, he shot her daggers, but she stood firm. "I have not seen you for months, not a word. Even after returning, you have not visited me. Have you forgotten what you promised?" Her eyes pleaded, on the verge of tears. Ramses could not help but sigh and look at her with sympathy and remorse.

"I have not forgotten anything, my dear," he perked her chin up with his thumb.

"But pressing matters have kept me occupied as of late."

"Yes, yes, and we all know what that means," she rolled her eyes sarcastically.

"Isetnofret," Ramses' voice lowered in a warning. "Show some constraint."

"Constraint? Do you have any idea how hard it is for me? The whole harem talks about how I was degraded because of some foreign pedigree bitch. And you want me to show constraint?

"I understand how angry you still are, Isetnofret. But I have already explained everything to you. I promised I would make it up to you, and I will. As I have told you many times, nothing and no one will replace you."

"Perhaps not, but that is not what the others think, Ramses. Especially the concubines...."

"Then show those concubines how wrong they are. Show them that you are unfazed by their spiteful gossip," he reached down to stroke her cheek. "It will get easier if you stop being spiteful yourself."

She frowned at this and stepped back angrily, "Spiteful?" Her teeth gritted.

Ramses sighed and shook his head. "And this is one of the reasons Nefertari is Queen, and you are not. So be on your best behaviour when the retinue arrives. We will talk more about this later." With those words, he left her speechless and staring after him as he walked away.

For many leagues, residents of Pi-Ramses had lined the wide dusty roads leading into the city. They threw palm fronds and lily flowers before the procession and cheered enthusiastically as they passed. Malawashina was so awed that, still far from the city gates, the peasantry had come to greet her arrival. They danced and played drums, cymbals, harps, and flutes to the beat of the marching feet of the cortege.

"I cannot believe it...." Malawashina stated as she waved to a group of children who were trying to catch her attention. Her heart could not race faster than it already was with excitement and anticipation.

"The people are excited that their new princess has finally arrived." Seshen smiled warmly as she, too, peered out through the sheer curtains that veiled them.

"Surely, they have greeted many. How can they be so enthusiastic each time?"

"They love their Pharaoh," Seshen replied truthfully. "A new marriage means that his divine family can continue to flourish. Besides, once Egypt and Hattusa had been mortal enemies. With your marriage to our Pharaoh, our mighty nations will have everlasting peace and prosperity. The people of Egypt are tremendously joyful for that."

Malawashina hummed as she nodded. "I do not remember seeing such joy and happiness on the faces of the common folk. It warms my heart greatly that the Pharaoh is much loved. Unlike in my old home where our King is..." She stopped short and sighed. She did not want to think of him on such a joyous day. "Look at all your fertile fields. I see that the inundation was generous this year."

"Indeed. Hapi has blessed us with a bountiful harvest every year since this city was built. Pi-Ramses is truly adored by the gods, Princess. It is a holy land."

Gradually they closed in on the colossal statues of the Pharaoh, which guarded the mighty gates to the city. Malawashina wanted nothing more than to poke her head out of her litter to gaze up upon them, but her loyal guard, Saduhi, disallowed her for her own safety.

Pouting, she sat back down, but the three girls still gathered at the curtains to peer up at their splendour. The shendyt they wore were painted a brighter white than the walls they sat against. The collars upon their broad shoulders seemed to sparkle like they were encrusted with natural jewels and gems. The Nemes headdresses they wore were painted bright blues and shimmering gold, and their eyes were set with brilliant green nephrite. Their lips were fashioned into a gentle smile. Carved upon the shoulders of each statue was the Pharaoh's royal cartouche.

 Malawashina's eyes had set themselves upon the gaze of the nearest statue as they made their approach. They seemed to bore into her very soul, commanding respect, diligence and obedience. Within their green lustre, she saw the Minister, and suddenly her heart ached.

"Are you okay, Mala?" Utati asked, having sensed the sudden change in the Princess' demeanour. Seshen, too, looked down at her then with worry.

Malawashina blinked hard and shook her head.

"No, I am quite fine. Just in awe," she lied.

The closer they were to the walls, the louder the cheering of the crowds became. Now, all members of society were out to cheer her arrival, and she could hear praises to the gods, the Pharaoh, and his firstborn son being cried into the heavens. 

Moving to the other side of the litter, away from the watchful eyes of Saduhi, she poked her head out a little, just enough to catch a glimpse of the Prince riding ahead of them through the gates. She shielded her eyes as his golden chariot glimmered from the sun. Yet, quickly she pulled her head back in when Saduhi caught on to her antics. Utati and Seshen giggled girlishly, their elated demeanours emanating such excitement and warmth.

Entering the city was like something from an ethereal dream. Hundreds of canals weaved through the bright streets, feeding it life and nourishment. 

The populace flooded the streets and crammed themselves onto makeshift boats to catch a glimpse of the retinue passing by. Not only were palm fronds being tossed before them, but wreaths of brightly coloured flowers as well. Families that packed the balconies tossed rose petals of pastel pinks and soft reds. 

Watching them, the Princess noticed the towering temples in the distance, their brightly painted murals shimmering in the afternoon sun. Rows of sphinxes carved from black basalt in the likeness of their Pharaoh lined the temple pathways. Clambering over them were children eager to see her. Colossal statues, towering obelisks, and flagpoles adorned the temple entrances much like those at the city's gates.

"And here is the Temple of Amun-Ra-Horakhty-Atum," Seshen explained as they made their slow approach. "We will be staying there for the next week."

Malawashina blinked hard as she turned to the older girl. "Who is this god?" Her eyes were wide with surprise. Seshen could not help but chuckle.

"Of Amun and Ra. Ra, who is Horus of the Two Horizons of Atum," she explained...

Malawashina blinked again and turned to stare back out at the towering statue of the god. 

"Your gods are truly fascinating."

"And powerful," Seshen added proudly. "They bless this day of your coming."

"But why do we not go straight to the palace?" Utati piped in.

Seshen smiled warmly at her. "If the Princess were to enter the palace now, she would be wedded to the Pharaoh. It is customary in Egypt that a couple is officially united when the woman enters her new husband's house. And so, my young Utati, Princess Malawashina is not to enter the palace until the Festival of Min in a week. Thus, we will be staying here at the Temple of Amun-Ra-Horakhty-Atum," she grinned at her flawless pronunciation of the deity's name.

"But I will meet the Pharaoh today, will I not?" Malawashina questioned.

"Oh yes, of course!" Seshen confirmed excitedly.

"Could you lead me through the introduction ceremony? I am unsure if it is any different here than back home."

"Oh, I can assure you, Princess, it is very similar. You will be introduced by Prince Amunherkhepershef, as he is the Pharaoh's son and thus the highest-ranked Egyptian in the retinue. Your Hatti Ministers will probably speak on your behalf unless the Pharaoh speaks directly to you. News of the journey will surely be shared by all Ministers."

Malawashina blushed and covered her face more so with her chiffon shawl. Seshen noticed this and grinned. "Do you need some water, your Highness? You certainly seem too hot suddenly," she teased.

"You would be, too, if you were about to meet your future husband."

Exiting the litter, Malawashina was greeted by the temple's High Priest with all the fanfare one would expect.

Priests lined the limestone stairs leading to the towering entrance of the temple, and there they shook sistrums and threw more rose petals in their path. 

The Prince turned to her and smiled just a few ways ahead. She had not realised how mature and handsome he was, dressed in his regal attire. He had not worn such exquisite finery and jewels in Hattusa. But, then, neither had she. The jewels she wore weighed heavily upon her and made climbing the stairs challenging. Thankfully Utati assisted her, whilst Seshen helped her with her bleached linen skirts. 

Though they were surrounded by armed guards, both Hittite and Egyptian alike, she could clearly see her surroundings now. Two colossal statues of the god watched her make her way up to their sanctuary. 

Finally, entering the expansive courtyard, she was confronted by the scents of burning incense and massive, brightly painted lotus-topped columns that held up the high ceiling. At the centre of the courtyard was a large rectangular pond filled with colourful lilies and domesticated Egyptian Geese. Nimble, short-haired felines with golden bells tied around their necks skittered around them. Wide chiffon curtains of blues and yellows hung from the ceilings, which were painted like the night sky. The inside of the temple was pleasantly cool, compared to the outside, perhaps due to the height of the ceilings and the curtains which circulated the breeze.

Despite how cool it was, Malawashina could not help but feel the heat rise in her cheeks and the sudden unsteadiness that came with it. Her hands were involuntarily shivering now, and she felt the sudden urge to burst into tears. 

Utati, looking up at her with a sympathetic expression, squeezed her friend's hand in reassurance. She, too, was nervous, yet she had to be the pillar for her friend to lean on. Malawashina looked down at her and smiled in thanks. She knew she was not alone with her feelings. Then, holding her head proudly, she continued on steadier feet into the inner sanctuary where the Pharaoh and his retinue awaited.

Streams of light illuminated the inner sanctuary from the many skylights in the ceiling. Beneath the largest, towards the centre of the room, sat a wide dais with several steps leading up to the royal throne.

Malawashina kept her head lowered, as was the custom when meeting a monarch, yet lifted her gaze slightly to see through her thick lashes. 

The throne to the left of the Pharaoh was empty, much to her surprise. But, a lavishly adorned woman sat on a large cushion on the step below his feet. The wig she wore was tightly woven and short. Fine threads of gold were entwined within the braids, and she wore a golden Ureus circlet upon it.

Her features were sharp, and her piercing black eyes scrutinised like a falcon stalking its prey. 

A heavyset collar of jewels and beads sat upon her shoulders, almost entirely covering her ample bosom. She wore a bleached linen dress that flowed over her long, slender legs, and a sash of deep red silk was tied around her slim waist. Malawashina could not help but feel incredibly intimidated by her presence, for her kohl-lined eyes teemed with menace. Malawashina forced her gaze away from her to that of the Pharaoh.

His expression was in complete contrast to that of the woman at his feet. His was gentle, and the smile upon his strong jaw was kind and filled with warmth. He wore the Pschent double crown upon his head, symbolising the unification of all Egypt. On his well-defined chin was tied a plaited false beard of deep Egyptian Blue and gold, and across his broad and muscular chest, he held the crook and flail. Beautiful emerald eyes gazed down at her.

Her entire being became rigid as she stared back at this deific figure.

"Twins?" She blurted in her native tongue. All eyes were suddenly upon her, and laughter from those that could understand her language erupted within the sanctuary. The woman at the Pharaoh's feet looked up, confused, but he grinned with amusement as his gaze remained fixed upon the Hittite Princess. Malawashina gasped at what had transpired and immediately bowed in obedience, her entire retinue following suit.

A loud clanging gong rang through the room to refocus those within, and all eyes then turned to the High Priest. He stood to the right of the Pharaoh on the step just below the female consort. "All may stand," he officiated in a booming voice. Malawashina did so albeit hesitantly, her entirety shivering with nervousness.

Then stepped forward the Prince. With a glance in her direction, he turned back to face his father. He placed his fist upon his chest and spoke, "To the strong bull, beloved of Ra. Pharaoh of Upper and Lower Egypt. Protector of Egypt who curbs foreign lands. Rich in years, great in victories. The justice of Ra is powerful, chosen of Ra. Rameses, beloved of Amun. To the mistress of the entire Two Lands, King's wife, great of praises, Princess Isetnofret. On this day, in the ninth year of our Pharaoh's reign, I present to you and the royal court of Egypt, Princess Malawashina, beloved daughter of General Hattusili, esteemed cousin of his Majesty, the King of the land of Hatti, Mursili, third of his name."

Malawashina could not help but smile fondly at the Prince. Yet, at the mention of her name, she lowered her gaze anxiously. The Prince turned to her, his smile as radiant as it always was. "Come forth, Princess Malawashina," he held out his arm to beckon her.

She took a few cautious steps forward, her jewellery tinkling as she did, her violet eyes remaining pinned to the limestone floor.

"The land of Egypt welcomes you, Princess Malawashina," Came another gentle voice.

"That voice..." Malawashina's gaze immediately shot up, her expression riddled with confusion and bewilderment. He addressed the entire court then, but she could not discern what he spoke; now, her mind was fixated purely on the silk that flowed from his mouth. Her head became completely clouded, even when numerous gifts were exchanged between groups. It was not until Utati pulled her sleeve gently and she noticed the chests containing her selected gifts were now beside her that she snapped back into reality.

"Present the gifts, Mala," Utati whispered.

"My esteemed Pharaoh, may I present to the royal court these gifts for the ladies of the royal harem and all the children of his Majesty," she spoke with as much calm as she could muster. Then, stepping to the side, she allowed her royal guards to open the chests. The Pharaoh smiled at the contents, and his emerald gaze returned to hers. "Such fine and splendid gifts, Princess Malawashina. I am certain the royal ladies and children will adore such a generous gesture, won't they, Princess Isetnofret?"

Isetnofret forced a smile. "Certainly, your Majesty," she answered, doing well to cloak the stiffness in her voice with feigned gratitude. "They are splendid indeed, for what Hattusa can afford," her words were followed by immediate, awkward silence.

"Then, I believe you will take care of them, Princess. Preferably now." The Pharaoh ordered.

She stood, her head held proudly, and descended the steps. Hidden behind the dais, her servants immediately took the chests and followed her. She completely ignored the retinue as she left. Once she was out of sight, the Pharaoh looked back at Malawashina with an apologetic expression and signalled the talks to continue.

"That look..."

After the officialities of the union were more discussed, the Pharaoh stood. With that, the entire sanctuary fell silent once more.

"With her strict permission, I would like to speak with Princess Malawashina in private," his emerald orbs were once more upon her. They were the very same shade as those of his brother.

One of the Ministers of Hattusa stepped forward to defer his proposal, but the Pharaoh simply looked at him with a smile. "I wish to discuss something of importance with her. It will not be for very long, I assure you."

The Hittite minister turned to her worriedly, but she smiled and nodded to him. "It is fine. I also wish to speak privately to the Pharaoh. He will soon be my husband, after all. So please, all of you, go now and rest."

The meeting dispersed when they were formally dismissed, leaving Ramses and Malawashina alone. Ramses removed his crown and the false beard and placed them upon his throne, along with the crook and flail. He made his way down the steps, stopping but a few feet from her. Her eyes widened. Now, she could see him in more natural light. They stood there, staring at each other, on the brink of awkwardness. Malawashina tried to find the words to speak, but she could not bring her thoughts away from where they were; the Pharaoh and the Minister were identical. Finally, he pulled up the courage to speak.

"There is so much I wish to tell you, yet I cannot find my words. So please, Princess, speak what you wish to say."

"Your brother, the Minister, said that you were both similar. But, I was not expecting...."

"There is no brother, Mala," Ramses interrupted gently. "Or any minister named Seti-nehkt. There is only me, and now, there is you."