** Warning: Long chapter, sexual themes**

Ramses' brow knotted into a deep frown as he read the words on the parchment. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest, the rapid thump echoing in his ears. With each passing moment, the Pharaoh's body seemed to coil tighter, as if preparing to unleash a wrath upon the world to rival that of the god of chaos himself, Set. His once steady hands trembled ever so slightly from his rising ire. The parchment, now crumpled and wrinkled in his grip, endured the brunt of his anger.

The small office closed in on him, the air growing oppressive as his rage filled the room. Every fibre of his being seemed to vibrate with a furious energy, his body on the verge of exploding with the sheer force of his anger. Yet, he had to keep his composure, for his messenger had done him a great service in bringing him the news.

"And where did you say you heard this?" His calm voice carried a laced intent.

The messenger was visibly nervous, his eyes downcast. Ramses raised an eyebrow expectantly, his patience waning.

"The Senet house in the Artisan's Quarter, your Majesty." The young man answered. "And another one of your jackals heard it in the Senet house of the Merchant's Quarter."

Ramses nodded, his face unreadable.

The young man shifted uncomfortably, unsure of what else he could say. He swallowed nervously, the lump in his throat feeling like the point of a dagger.

The Pharaoh was silent, his dark gaze focused intently on the piece of papyrus before him. His face was a mask of controlled anger, his eyes glinting dangerously in the brazier light.

"You and the others are to keep your ears open and try to locate the source."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

The Pharaoh's eyes never left the piece of parchment as the messenger left.

He knew he had to inform Nefertari of this. It did not surprise him, however, that she already knew.

"My sparrows also heard such whispers on the wind," she sighed, handing her husband a small parchment with the same words as the one he had received.

Ramses looked over the parchment with the same frown on his face. "Where?"

"In the marketplace of the Merchant's Quarter. As we both know, there are many foreign and Egyptian merchants alike selling their wares there. Obviously, this rumour has come from one, or many, who have opposed your union to the princess, or who wish to tarnish her reputation and place within the royal harem."

Ramses pinched the bridge of his nose, the stress of the situation causing his forehead to ache.

"What is your command, my Pharaoh? Shall I summon the princess for us to disclose this to her?"

"No, not yet," Ramses sighed, trying to think. "I don't want her worrying about this nonsense right now. But you said that your sparrow got wind of the rumour in the Merchant's Quarter, correct?"

"I did, yes. Has something come to mind?"

"One of my jackals also heard the rumour being spoken in the Senet house there."

Nefertari's eyes widened with this information. "What are you thinking, my love?"

"It is still too early to tell, but I wonder if this rumour has started from foreign mouths." The Pharaoh ran a hand down his face. "Or from someone from our land who is cunning enough to have it spread where our foreign residents and visitors congregate most in order to deflect blame."

Nefertari's brow also furrowed. "I know that there were some who objected to your union with Mala, but not to the extent of spreading such uncouth rumours and going against you. What do they think they will gain by trying to tilt the scales of Ma'at?"

"I do not know. But I intend to find out."

"My love," Nefertari said with a warning tone.

"I will not take this matter lightly." Ramses stated, his expression hard.

"Then please do not act rashly. Remember, we are not sure where the root of these words came from."

"I won't." He promised, taking his wife's hands into his own. "I will have your sparrows continue to listen, and I will have my jackals continue to search."

Nefertari nodded before pausing for a moment, the lines of her brow creasing into deep thought. "Forgive me, my star, but do you think Isetnofret could have anything to do with this?"

Ramses, too, frowned at the notion, yet his most beloved's suggestion surprised him. "For her sake, I hope not, but we cannot rule it out. She may be in Mer-Wer, but she still carries some influence in certain circles. I will go to confront her myself if our messengers cannot find the source in our capital."

"But first, we must decide how to move forward from here, for I do fear this venom may seep its way into Mala's heart eventually if we are not vigilant." Nefertari stated.

Ramses nodded and sighed once more, his brow creasing with frustration. "I know, my love."

"And we must endeavour to snuff it out and prove it false before it spreads further." Nefertari continued.

"What is on your mind, my star?" Ramses searched her topaz gaze.

"At the earliest possible convenience, you must show her public affection. Show the masses that you accept her and love her."

Ramses' eyes widened. "But that would undermine you, my queen!"

"Not if I am with you, and am too showing her our joint adoration. I also believe it to be in her best interest if we push forward our son's union to Lady Sitamun. That way we can hopefully get Mala away from the rumour, and have our people's attention directed at something much more pleasing and anticipated."

"A distraction, of sorts?" Ramses' lips curled.

"I suppose you can call it that. I am sure Utati will also be pleased with such a decision," Nefertari smirked in return. "However, if we do this, there is something else that we must rectify with haste."

Ramses' brow arched as his expression changed to one of puzzlement.

"A child with the princess to solidify the peace treaty between our two great lands." Nefertari declared.

Yet Ramses felt anxious at the notion. "I fret that she still suffers from the loss of our last child."

"I do not doubt that." Nefertari lamented, "But we both know how it will appear if anyone else within our royal household becomes with child before she does. If you do not sow your seed within her garden soon, then our people may very well accept the rumour as truth. We must do everything possible to avoid that. And so, you must do your utmost to seduce her. Of course, do not be like a stallion at a gate rearing to mount his mare; no, you must woo her and adore her and gently ease her back into your bed."

The Pharaoh's narrowing gaze deepened in hue at his queen's advice. "And what, my darling, do you suggest?"

Nefertari opened her mouth in reply when her eyes, too, narrowed onto her husband. She knew perfectly well what game he was now wanting to play.

"Surely you, my love, a god upon this earth, know well how to seduce a woman? I very much doubt that you need my advice."

Ramses pouted boyishly. "You are no fun, now are you?"

Nefertari shook her head and rolled her eyes, pressing her lips together to keep herself from laughing at his antics.

"Stop thinking with your cock for once and think with that brilliant mind of yours." She flicked his forehead as she turned to stand. But immediately, he took her by her forearms and pulled her down on his lap. She could feel the throb of his wanting through her own linen skirts.

His deep tone purred deliciously into her ear as he nuzzled the side of her neck with a tenderness reserved only for her. "Right now I would rather sink my cock deep into your quim, my sweet."

"You're impossible, Sete," Nefertari hummed, giving him a shove.

Sete ... he had not heard that nickname since before his coronation. "Come now," he gently reached up to knead her bosoms, causing her body to tremble under the delightful touch of his fingertips.

"I know you can be as ravenous as I for pleasures of the flesh. I remember when you used to ride my cock any chance you could, and I would have to fill you, and your desires, multiple times a day."

Nefertari flushed meekly and cowered her head away from him in embarrassment. Yet she could not help but let a mewl of arousal escape from between her rouged lips. "That was when we were younger and had fewer children to run around after."

"And that is why we have wet nurses," he rebutted as he began pulling up her skirts along her thighs.

"If you do not wish it, I will stop immediately and will not bother you again, but please, my star, allow me to indulge in you. At least while we still have time together alone."

"You arousing me like this is bringing my milk forth," she complained again as they both felt the sweet droplets dampen the thin linen that veiled her breasts. "I feel like a sow enough as it is. Besides, I thought you wanted advice on how to woo Malawashina gently."

"And you think I am capable enough to figure that out on my own, my love." Ramses knew he had found his mark when his beloved jolted against him, her spine arching and her head toppling back against his shoulder as she whimpered. "I definitely will not be as straightforward as I am now." He chuckled.

"I hope not!" Nefertari gasped in answer.

The afternoon sun hung high above in the clear, sapphire sky as it warmed the lush grove of doum palms she sat beneath. The sounds of wagtails chirping, water rippling, and children playing in the distance did little to calm her despondent heart. Once more, her harp sat beside her as she sat at the edge of the expansive pond, gazing blankly at her reflection, which stared back. Her skin had returned to its golden, glowing sheen, but she was still thin and her natural hair hung limply down her back. Her face seemed sunken, and she often still felt utterly spent. She longed to play sweet melodies on her harp once more, but her mind seemed numb to the notion. Sighing, she hugged her knees closer to her chest and resigned herself to her pity.

She barely noticed the tall figure who sat silently beside her. "I thought I would find you out here," he began softly.

She looked at her husband with tired eyes. His expression was one of genuine empathy and compassion. It made her heart ache more. She tried to offer a smile in greeting.

Ramses studied her features intently, and he could see her continued suffering clearly etched in the lines of her brow. She turned her face back towards the water, but the Pharaoh's tender hand cupped her cheek and brought her back to meet his gaze. His other hand caressed the softness of her hair as gently as one would stroke a babe to sleep.

"How are you, Mala?" The concern in his voice was palpable, but she still did not know what to say.

Her lips trembled as she attempted to smile. "I feel hollow."

The Pharaoh felt a painful stab to his heart at the confession. He felt so helpless, but he was determined to help her in any way he could. "Is there anything that would ease the ache in your heart? Is there anything I can do to bring you some form of relief from the hurt?"

Malawashina closed her eyes as she attempted to steady the breath that she took. "I wish I had the answer, my lord." She finally sighed. "But there is nothing."

"Would you prefer to be alone?" He asked after a moment of stroking her sullen cheek with his thumb.

She opened her eyes and studied his expression, surprised to see a sadness she did not think him capable of. But alas, he, too, could suffer.

"No, but I do not think I would be good company right now." She averted her eyes, staring at a nearby lotus flower as the sunlight that filtered through the trees dappled its pink petals. "I doubt my mind will be in a state to make pleasant conversation. I feel like such a bore, my Pharaoh, and I think you could not derive any pleasure from my company."

Ramses smiled softly at her words and shook his head. "Your presence brings me more joy than you could know, and I am never bored in your company. But I do not want to force you if you feel it will make you more unhappy. So, please, let me know if my presence is of any discomfort to you, and I will part ways."

"No," she then clasped his hand tightly. "I very much would like you to stay. I have..." The words caught in her throat and her voice hitched as tears welled in her eyes. She hung her head to avoid his gaze and squeezed her eyes shut to quell her tears.

"What is it, my dearest?" Ramses pressed softly.

"I have missed your company so." Malawashina's voice trembled.

His hand cradled her cheek as she looked at him with wet, bloodshot eyes. Ramses offered a reassuring smile and placed a gentle kiss on her lips. It was tender, yet firm with promise of never letting go. It was not lustful or lecherous, but one filled with love and affection. Oh, how she had missed such feelings. She wanted nothing more than to relish in his presence. In his touch. To let him in again.

Malawashina turned and crawled into Ramses' lap, wrapping her arms tightly around his shoulders as she nuzzled his neck.

Despite being pleasantly surprised, the Pharaoh welcomed it all the same.

She remained silent, listening to the thrumming of his heart in her ear, while his muscular arms wrapped around her tightly. It was a long while before she finally spoke, and he wondered if she had drifted off. "Thank you."

He tilted his head in response and gazed at her sweet features. "For what, my darling lotus?"

"For being patient with me."

"Oh, my sweet, that is a given."

"But it still means so much to me," her voice shook, her lip trembled, and a fresh wave of tears pooled in her eyes.

"And it will always mean much to me," Ramses declared with all sincerity, bringing their foreheads to touch.

They held each other for quite some time, with Malawashina straddling him with her chest pressed against his. The Pharaoh held her close to him, allowing her to feel the beating of his heart. It was such an intimate position, and Ramses knew his body would react if they remained as they were, but he did not want to break the spell they were under. He would control his lusts for her sake.

He could feel Malawashina relax and breathe a deep sigh, her arms draping loosely over his broad shoulders. It seemed that the burdens that she had been carrying on her frail form were finally lifting, allowing her to regain her sense of ease in his presence. Ramses knew she still had much healing left to do, and it was up to him to nurture her to aid in her recovery.

He stroked her face, his fingers brushing away her stray tears as she leaned into his touch. "Would you like to come back inside, my dear? Where I can hold you like this for however long you like, away from prying eyes."

"Yes," she smiled tenderly.

The Pharaoh gave her another soft kiss on the lips. "Would my chambers be alright?"

Her eyes widened with surprise. In all the time she had now been at the palace, she had not once been to his chambers. In fact, no one but the queen had.

"Of course, my lord," she answered meekly.

Ramses flashed a playful grin. "You do not have to be so formal with me now. We are alone, so I insist that you call me by my name when we are together. I've always said that." He poked her nose gently, causing her to giggle. "Let us get going. You must be cold." He noticed her shoulders tremble as a soft breeze blew through the garden. "Would you like to be carried?"

She, slightly perplexed by his suggestion, could not help but nod, and immediately his powerful arms lifted her, and her harp, effortlessly from the ground.

"I...is this permissible?" Her cheeks flushed hotly as he carried her away with little effort.

He could not help but chuckle at her worry. "I am the Pharaoh, and this is my palace. Thus I declare my words are law."

Malawashina felt herself smile at his lightheartedness. But then it turned to one of shock when she noticed all eyes turn towards them, staring in surprise, as Ramses carried her back inside. She blushed furiously, hiding her face against him in embarrassment. "Must everyone look upon me when I am in your arms?!"

"They are simply curious." He explained, as he made his way down one corridor after another. "It is not often I carry anyone in my household who is not a child of mine. Besides, they can witness the love between us."

Malawashina said nothing, her face remaining hidden, until he finally reached the entrance to his private chambers. As they entered, a wave of his delicious scent, mixed with the aroma of frankincense and myrrh and something that was only him, washed over her, causing a delightful tingling to course through her body. As the door closed behind them, he brought them through the waves of sheer curtains to his enormous bed, placing her gently down and removing her sandals, before he kicked off his own.

The Princess was in awe, for his room was adorned with a mixture of gold and lapis lazuli. His bed was much larger than she had imagined it to be, with sheets of pure silk dyed a vibrant sapphire. They were so luxurious to touch under her palms. There was also a small table that sat between two plush sofas with a set of senet carved from alabaster atop of it. The floor, too, was made from the smoothest coloured tiles adorned with various rugs and carpets. The tiles sparkled beautifully in the light that flooded through the tall windows that lined one wall opposite of the door they had just entered through.

Ramses lay down next to her and pulled her closer to him. Her head now rested upon his shoulder, while one of her legs lay between his thighs. He began stroking her arm in a slow, tender motion as he placed a loving kiss on her brow.

Malawashina could feel his fingers play with her hair, and her heart fluttered, yet she said nothing, for fear of shattering the moment with the melancholy that still threatened her demeanour.

They lay together, listening to the sounds of each other's breathing. Malawashina was finally relaxing. She was finding comfort in his embrace.

Ramses broke their silence. "My dearest Mala?"

"Yes, my... dearest Ramses?"

He smiled warmly. "You will always be able to confide in me about anything that troubles your heart." He cupped her chin, gently tilting her head up.

His gaze was intense, and her breath caught in her throat at the raw emotion she found staring back. "I understand that losing our child still causes you pain and has taken away the happiness from your heart, but please, let me ease some of your hurt and your pain. Let me be there to catch you whenever you fall and give you strength when you are weak. Allow me to be your safe harbour, and know that you will never be alone in this."

"How could I be so fortunate?" Malawashina could feel a warm tear slide down her cheek as she gave a heart-rending sigh. "To have found such a tender heart to heal my wounds, I could never be more grateful for your kindness."

"Your gratitude is undeserved, my darling. You deserve even more than what I can offer you."

"I believe my words are my own, and that is what I wish to say," she stated, now leaning forward to press her lips against his.

Ramses was not one to resist such a tender gesture and met her halfway. As their lips met, it felt like the spark that they had lost had returned and ignited their passions for one another.

He deepened the kiss, cupping the back of her head. They moved with one another in perfect synchronicity, as if it had only been days and not moons since the last time.

He slid his hand along the back of her dress to touch the soft, bare skin that was hidden beneath her collar, and he felt her body come alive, a warmth spreading through her form. Little did he know that his touch was causing a delicious tightness to form in her loins.

Ramses knew she needed tender love and attention, and he was determined to not rush anything, nor was he in a rush to have his way with her. He knew she was feeling his excitement and knew that her body was also aching for some sort of relief from the stress it had been through. But she seemed hesitant, and he knew she needed to be wooed more thoroughly, to allow herself to open up to him and trust that no further harm would come to her at his hands or at the hands of his kingdom. A promise he would endeavour to make.

She was panting when he finally pulled away, but there was something more than just the want of their physical union. The way she looked at him told him that there was something she desperately wanted to say, but did not know how to put it into words. Her hands clutched the lapel of his kilt as she stared into his eyes intently. "Ramses, I...I..." She trailed off and dropped her head, looking down at his chest as she struggled with what she was feeling.

Ramses felt his heart pound harder than before. He ran his thumb across her cheek gently as he leaned closer to her and placed his forehead on hers. "Tell me," he urged softly. "I am here."

Her words rolled from her lips in her native tongue. "I love you, Ramses. I am in love with you, and I do not think I have ever stopped since that night we shared after our union. Even before then, when you kept your true identity hidden, I adored you. So much so that I had been afraid of doing something so foolish I could have faced potential execution. I fell for you when you were just a minister and I fell for you even harder when I realised I could feel freely for you, for I was yours all along." She closed her eyes as tears spilled from them, but there was a smile on her face. "I love you, Ramses," she said in his native tongue once again. "And my love for you will get me through this. My love for you already got me this far; Through the heartache of losing our child and through the gut wrenching fear of losing you because of my failure." She breathed a soft, shaky sigh and looked into her husband's eyes. "You are the love of my life, Ramses. Without you, I am nothing."

"And I love you," Ramses answered in Hatti. "More than I ever imagined. When I signed that treaty and agreed to take a Hatti princess for a wife, I did not know how much joy this union would bring to my life. I love you, my Lotus Flower. I adore you. As undeserving of you as I am, I still yearn for more of you. For a glimpse of your smile, for the sweet melody of your voice, even for the harshness of your displeasure. I yearn for you as a starving man yearns for food, sweet Mala. I would gladly and greedily accept everything you offer me. So believe me when I say you did not fail me. You could never fail me." He spoke in a soothing tone as he stroked her hair and her cheeks with tender adoration. "Without you as part of my beloved family, a part of me would break."

Her heart-wrenched expression looked into his eyes, searching for any signs of deception but only found equal love gazing back at her.

Her hand trailed along his chiselled jaw as she traced her fingertips along his bottom lip, causing him to hum with content. He pressed his lips to hers, their lips moulding to the other, as his arms wrapped around her slender body and drew her closer to him, savouring her. She let out a sigh when he finally broke from the kiss and her eyelids fluttered closed as his lips travelled down the line of her jaw to her neck, the heat from his breath warming the column of her throat. She ran her fingers through his soft tresses and she let herself go as he unlaced her gown.

"If you wish for me to stop, just say the word. You know I will never push you further than you are willing to go."

"I do not wish for you to stop." She replied in a whisper, still conversing in her native language. Hearing his smooth voice speak her tongue was sending her senses wild.