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The request that his wife joined him in the evening had, for once, no sensual undertones. There were more important matters at hand than his own desire for her. Hatshepsut was a spoiled child in his mind, but she was a spoiled child that belonged to him and that was, unfortunately his queen. He did not foresee her having much use to him aside from bearing children in the years to come. It was a shame really. The Queen Mother, ruthless in her own right, possessed both beauty and intelligence, but it seemed young Hatshepsut had only inherited one of those traits. It was true Iahotep wished that Hatshepsut would take her place as his queen, someone who was not afraid to face his wrath or challenge him like her mother. If only his wife would take charge, would show him she was more than a queen by birthright.
Then it struck him.
He had plans to go off to war for a time. It was important that he not be seen as a coward who sent men to their deaths on a whim. He intended to add this war of his to a long list of victories. He could provide her with a chance to prove herself to him, to finally see if his queen was truly worthy of calling herself as such. It took days of muling over to come to a decision but when it came, he was certain of it; Hatshepsut would rule under the watchful eye of Isetheperu.
It was time to deliver the news.
Having dismissed his servants for the evening, Iahotep sat on the edge of his bed while Isis lay her head in his lap. He idly stroked her fur, murmuring words to his beloved pet. Only when he heard the sound of approaching footsteps did he look up. “Enter.” He said simply, without moving from his seat. Looking her over, the smallest hit of a smile tugged at his lips. Even with child, she was a beauty and one that meant much more to him now than she previously had. The mother of his child was a precious thing and she would not be left with meager palace guards in his absence. After the attempt on his life, no security measure seemed to small. He had a number planned arrangements for her while he saw to the war, all of which he would divulge to her.
“Come, my Queen, sit with me,” Nudging Isis off of the bed, he patted the spot she once occupied.
Though his face remained calm, the glint in his eyes suggested otherwise. He was not in a trying mood with war on the horizon, but she had yet to provoke his ire, and so, he kept himself from unleashing his stress upon her. He could only hope her pregnancy would not affect her ability to think clearly. He had struck her once before and he would do it again. If she had learned her lesson, then there would be no problems tonight. She would sit, listen and speak when he permitted her to.
“We have much to discuss.” His tone was gentle but the expectation that she would come as he commanded her had not left him.
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The request that his wife joined him in the evening had, for once, no sensual undertones. There were more important matters at hand than his own desire for her. Hatshepsut was a spoiled child in his mind, but she was a spoiled child that belonged to him and that was, unfortunately his queen. He did not foresee her having much use to him aside from bearing children in the years to come. It was a shame really. The Queen Mother, ruthless in her own right, possessed both beauty and intelligence, but it seemed young Hatshepsut had only inherited one of those traits. It was true Iahotep wished that Hatshepsut would take her place as his queen, someone who was not afraid to face his wrath or challenge him like her mother. If only his wife would take charge, would show him she was more than a queen by birthright.
Then it struck him.
He had plans to go off to war for a time. It was important that he not be seen as a coward who sent men to their deaths on a whim. He intended to add this war of his to a long list of victories. He could provide her with a chance to prove herself to him, to finally see if his queen was truly worthy of calling herself as such. It took days of muling over to come to a decision but when it came, he was certain of it; Hatshepsut would rule under the watchful eye of Isetheperu.
It was time to deliver the news.
Having dismissed his servants for the evening, Iahotep sat on the edge of his bed while Isis lay her head in his lap. He idly stroked her fur, murmuring words to his beloved pet. Only when he heard the sound of approaching footsteps did he look up. “Enter.” He said simply, without moving from his seat. Looking her over, the smallest hit of a smile tugged at his lips. Even with child, she was a beauty and one that meant much more to him now than she previously had. The mother of his child was a precious thing and she would not be left with meager palace guards in his absence. After the attempt on his life, no security measure seemed to small. He had a number planned arrangements for her while he saw to the war, all of which he would divulge to her.
“Come, my Queen, sit with me,” Nudging Isis off of the bed, he patted the spot she once occupied.
Though his face remained calm, the glint in his eyes suggested otherwise. He was not in a trying mood with war on the horizon, but she had yet to provoke his ire, and so, he kept himself from unleashing his stress upon her. He could only hope her pregnancy would not affect her ability to think clearly. He had struck her once before and he would do it again. If she had learned her lesson, then there would be no problems tonight. She would sit, listen and speak when he permitted her to.
“We have much to discuss.” His tone was gentle but the expectation that she would come as he commanded her had not left him.
The request that his wife joined him in the evening had, for once, no sensual undertones. There were more important matters at hand than his own desire for her. Hatshepsut was a spoiled child in his mind, but she was a spoiled child that belonged to him and that was, unfortunately his queen. He did not foresee her having much use to him aside from bearing children in the years to come. It was a shame really. The Queen Mother, ruthless in her own right, possessed both beauty and intelligence, but it seemed young Hatshepsut had only inherited one of those traits. It was true Iahotep wished that Hatshepsut would take her place as his queen, someone who was not afraid to face his wrath or challenge him like her mother. If only his wife would take charge, would show him she was more than a queen by birthright.
Then it struck him.
He had plans to go off to war for a time. It was important that he not be seen as a coward who sent men to their deaths on a whim. He intended to add this war of his to a long list of victories. He could provide her with a chance to prove herself to him, to finally see if his queen was truly worthy of calling herself as such. It took days of muling over to come to a decision but when it came, he was certain of it; Hatshepsut would rule under the watchful eye of Isetheperu.
It was time to deliver the news.
Having dismissed his servants for the evening, Iahotep sat on the edge of his bed while Isis lay her head in his lap. He idly stroked her fur, murmuring words to his beloved pet. Only when he heard the sound of approaching footsteps did he look up. “Enter.” He said simply, without moving from his seat. Looking her over, the smallest hit of a smile tugged at his lips. Even with child, she was a beauty and one that meant much more to him now than she previously had. The mother of his child was a precious thing and she would not be left with meager palace guards in his absence. After the attempt on his life, no security measure seemed to small. He had a number planned arrangements for her while he saw to the war, all of which he would divulge to her.
“Come, my Queen, sit with me,” Nudging Isis off of the bed, he patted the spot she once occupied.
Though his face remained calm, the glint in his eyes suggested otherwise. He was not in a trying mood with war on the horizon, but she had yet to provoke his ire, and so, he kept himself from unleashing his stress upon her. He could only hope her pregnancy would not affect her ability to think clearly. He had struck her once before and he would do it again. If she had learned her lesson, then there would be no problems tonight. She would sit, listen and speak when he permitted her to.
“We have much to discuss.” His tone was gentle but the expectation that she would come as he commanded her had not left him.
It wasn't unusual for Iahotep to summon her in the evenings in order to slake his lust upon her, despite the fact that she was already pregnant. Hatshepsut expected more of the same tonight and dread filled her heart. Why couldn't he leave her alone now that she was carrying his child? Of course, if he did, he would seek his pleasures elsewhere. While she didn't care whether he had a hundred mistresses or more, she didn't want to subject any of the women of her kingdom to his cruel and violent nature. It was better than she suffer instead of them. Was that not what she had been born for … to sacrifice herself for her kingdom?
The young Queen had taken to having meals sent to her rooms because of the sickness that often struck her afterward. It would only bring worry to see her heave up everything she had eaten. Now that it was easing, she knew she should start dining at the high table with her husband, mother, and half-brother, so that the inhabitants of the palace would know that she was well. Tonight, though, she was too nervous for company and found that she had absolutely no appetite. She forced herself to eat anyway. The child would not lack nourishment because of her own anxiety.
Lately, she had been dressing up before she joined her Pharaoh, wanting to remind him in all things that she was his Queen and not a servant to intimidate and boss around. He was still possessive of her in public, but he had not struck her since the morning after their wedding and seemed to endure well enough her unresponsiveness in bed.
He also had no idea that she was still seeing Osorsen and giving him the the pleasure of her body that Iahotep craved for himself. She relished defying him in secret when she thought she was his obedient little mouse. Hatshepsut truly loved Osorsen, and believed she always would. Because she was already showing, she sometimes wondered if her baby was her lover's. If so, it would be the perfect way to get back at Iahotep for his cruelty … for him to raise another man's son as his heir.
When she was ready, attired in a filmy white kalisaris that clung to her swelling body, along with a beaded collar, earrings, bracelets, and belt, she crossed through the chamber that connected their bedrooms and knocked at his door. His barked command made her wince but she walked in with her head held high and her raven curls bouncing against her back. When he looked up at her and smiled, Hatshepsut felt confused. Had she unintentionally done something to please him? Or was he just looking forward to having her beneath him and at his mercy again?
He was sitting on his bed with Isis by his side, but he gently pushed the big feline away and beckoned Hatshepsut to take her place. He treats that cheetah better than he treats me. Then again, the same thing could be said for herself. She lavished attention on her caracal and monkey and ignored her husband when she could. The young Queen approached him without hesitation, refusing to show the fear that clutched at her heart. She hoped the turmoil she saw in his eyes had more to do with the war than with her.
“As you wish, my Pharaoh,” she said demurely. She left a good distance between them when she sat down, perching upon the edge of the bed as if ready to flee at any moment. Knowing that he preferred her not to speak too much, Hatshepsut simply raised a perfectly manicured eyebrow when he claimed that they had much to discuss.
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It wasn't unusual for Iahotep to summon her in the evenings in order to slake his lust upon her, despite the fact that she was already pregnant. Hatshepsut expected more of the same tonight and dread filled her heart. Why couldn't he leave her alone now that she was carrying his child? Of course, if he did, he would seek his pleasures elsewhere. While she didn't care whether he had a hundred mistresses or more, she didn't want to subject any of the women of her kingdom to his cruel and violent nature. It was better than she suffer instead of them. Was that not what she had been born for … to sacrifice herself for her kingdom?
The young Queen had taken to having meals sent to her rooms because of the sickness that often struck her afterward. It would only bring worry to see her heave up everything she had eaten. Now that it was easing, she knew she should start dining at the high table with her husband, mother, and half-brother, so that the inhabitants of the palace would know that she was well. Tonight, though, she was too nervous for company and found that she had absolutely no appetite. She forced herself to eat anyway. The child would not lack nourishment because of her own anxiety.
Lately, she had been dressing up before she joined her Pharaoh, wanting to remind him in all things that she was his Queen and not a servant to intimidate and boss around. He was still possessive of her in public, but he had not struck her since the morning after their wedding and seemed to endure well enough her unresponsiveness in bed.
He also had no idea that she was still seeing Osorsen and giving him the the pleasure of her body that Iahotep craved for himself. She relished defying him in secret when she thought she was his obedient little mouse. Hatshepsut truly loved Osorsen, and believed she always would. Because she was already showing, she sometimes wondered if her baby was her lover's. If so, it would be the perfect way to get back at Iahotep for his cruelty … for him to raise another man's son as his heir.
When she was ready, attired in a filmy white kalisaris that clung to her swelling body, along with a beaded collar, earrings, bracelets, and belt, she crossed through the chamber that connected their bedrooms and knocked at his door. His barked command made her wince but she walked in with her head held high and her raven curls bouncing against her back. When he looked up at her and smiled, Hatshepsut felt confused. Had she unintentionally done something to please him? Or was he just looking forward to having her beneath him and at his mercy again?
He was sitting on his bed with Isis by his side, but he gently pushed the big feline away and beckoned Hatshepsut to take her place. He treats that cheetah better than he treats me. Then again, the same thing could be said for herself. She lavished attention on her caracal and monkey and ignored her husband when she could. The young Queen approached him without hesitation, refusing to show the fear that clutched at her heart. She hoped the turmoil she saw in his eyes had more to do with the war than with her.
“As you wish, my Pharaoh,” she said demurely. She left a good distance between them when she sat down, perching upon the edge of the bed as if ready to flee at any moment. Knowing that he preferred her not to speak too much, Hatshepsut simply raised a perfectly manicured eyebrow when he claimed that they had much to discuss.
It wasn't unusual for Iahotep to summon her in the evenings in order to slake his lust upon her, despite the fact that she was already pregnant. Hatshepsut expected more of the same tonight and dread filled her heart. Why couldn't he leave her alone now that she was carrying his child? Of course, if he did, he would seek his pleasures elsewhere. While she didn't care whether he had a hundred mistresses or more, she didn't want to subject any of the women of her kingdom to his cruel and violent nature. It was better than she suffer instead of them. Was that not what she had been born for … to sacrifice herself for her kingdom?
The young Queen had taken to having meals sent to her rooms because of the sickness that often struck her afterward. It would only bring worry to see her heave up everything she had eaten. Now that it was easing, she knew she should start dining at the high table with her husband, mother, and half-brother, so that the inhabitants of the palace would know that she was well. Tonight, though, she was too nervous for company and found that she had absolutely no appetite. She forced herself to eat anyway. The child would not lack nourishment because of her own anxiety.
Lately, she had been dressing up before she joined her Pharaoh, wanting to remind him in all things that she was his Queen and not a servant to intimidate and boss around. He was still possessive of her in public, but he had not struck her since the morning after their wedding and seemed to endure well enough her unresponsiveness in bed.
He also had no idea that she was still seeing Osorsen and giving him the the pleasure of her body that Iahotep craved for himself. She relished defying him in secret when she thought she was his obedient little mouse. Hatshepsut truly loved Osorsen, and believed she always would. Because she was already showing, she sometimes wondered if her baby was her lover's. If so, it would be the perfect way to get back at Iahotep for his cruelty … for him to raise another man's son as his heir.
When she was ready, attired in a filmy white kalisaris that clung to her swelling body, along with a beaded collar, earrings, bracelets, and belt, she crossed through the chamber that connected their bedrooms and knocked at his door. His barked command made her wince but she walked in with her head held high and her raven curls bouncing against her back. When he looked up at her and smiled, Hatshepsut felt confused. Had she unintentionally done something to please him? Or was he just looking forward to having her beneath him and at his mercy again?
He was sitting on his bed with Isis by his side, but he gently pushed the big feline away and beckoned Hatshepsut to take her place. He treats that cheetah better than he treats me. Then again, the same thing could be said for herself. She lavished attention on her caracal and monkey and ignored her husband when she could. The young Queen approached him without hesitation, refusing to show the fear that clutched at her heart. She hoped the turmoil she saw in his eyes had more to do with the war than with her.
“As you wish, my Pharaoh,” she said demurely. She left a good distance between them when she sat down, perching upon the edge of the bed as if ready to flee at any moment. Knowing that he preferred her not to speak too much, Hatshepsut simply raised a perfectly manicured eyebrow when he claimed that they had much to discuss.
Her poise as she entered his domain did not escape him. Her head was held high like a true queen, not like the child he still was convinced she was. He was, in a way, impressed that she refused to cow under his intimidating eye and cruel hand. He had struck her for her insolence and it appeared in the time after that she had learned the cost of impudence. Good. He would need a queen, not a child, for what he had in store for her.
He did not hide the fact that he was looking her over, perhaps searching for a sign that she was unworthy to hear the news he was about to deliver. The conflicted glint in his eyes remained, even as he resolved that she would have no choice but to be ready. Maybe that childishness would come to be useful to some degree. Surely, she would not want her mother to rule completely in his place.
She did well to sit where he commanded her to and say nothing more. He was not in the mood to be challenged.
“There is war upon the horizon,” he said, “and with war comes change.”
“It is time for you to be a queen.”
“I will be going to war for a time, and you will rule in my place. I trust Zoser will do well to advise you on matters in which you know little and your mother to guide you.” He watched her closely for a reaction. How would she feel about this sudden responsibility? Did she know it was truly a test? Could she even comprehend what he was looking for from her? For her sake and the sake of the kingdom he was leaving behind, he prayed to the Gods she did, for there would be no stopping his wrath should she fail.
“The serving boy who died drinking wine meant for my lips is a lesson to us all. How easily could it have been in your cup? You carry my child and the future of Egypt, I will not leave you unprotected in my absence. The palace guards cannot be trusted -- their loyalties can be bought. In place of the palace guards, I have charged Osorsen with finding his most loyal men to protect you. I should hope you find no issue with that.”
He noticed the space between them, though he said nothing. It was true he could command her to come to his side and she would without question, less he discipline her again, however, there were more trying matters at hand.
“If you are to be a queen in my absence, you must make your wishes known,” his brows furrowed in thought, “Address me now, as my Queen, tell me of your objections, your questions, and your concerns. I will listen and you will not falter in your words. Show me that you are every bit a queen by birth as by merit,” The seriousness in his tone intensified, as did the look for scrutiny in his eyes. Coming to the decision to leave all that was his in her hands had not been a simple task. Gods, let it not be now that he regret this choice.
“Show me that you are ready.”
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Her poise as she entered his domain did not escape him. Her head was held high like a true queen, not like the child he still was convinced she was. He was, in a way, impressed that she refused to cow under his intimidating eye and cruel hand. He had struck her for her insolence and it appeared in the time after that she had learned the cost of impudence. Good. He would need a queen, not a child, for what he had in store for her.
He did not hide the fact that he was looking her over, perhaps searching for a sign that she was unworthy to hear the news he was about to deliver. The conflicted glint in his eyes remained, even as he resolved that she would have no choice but to be ready. Maybe that childishness would come to be useful to some degree. Surely, she would not want her mother to rule completely in his place.
She did well to sit where he commanded her to and say nothing more. He was not in the mood to be challenged.
“There is war upon the horizon,” he said, “and with war comes change.”
“It is time for you to be a queen.”
“I will be going to war for a time, and you will rule in my place. I trust Zoser will do well to advise you on matters in which you know little and your mother to guide you.” He watched her closely for a reaction. How would she feel about this sudden responsibility? Did she know it was truly a test? Could she even comprehend what he was looking for from her? For her sake and the sake of the kingdom he was leaving behind, he prayed to the Gods she did, for there would be no stopping his wrath should she fail.
“The serving boy who died drinking wine meant for my lips is a lesson to us all. How easily could it have been in your cup? You carry my child and the future of Egypt, I will not leave you unprotected in my absence. The palace guards cannot be trusted -- their loyalties can be bought. In place of the palace guards, I have charged Osorsen with finding his most loyal men to protect you. I should hope you find no issue with that.”
He noticed the space between them, though he said nothing. It was true he could command her to come to his side and she would without question, less he discipline her again, however, there were more trying matters at hand.
“If you are to be a queen in my absence, you must make your wishes known,” his brows furrowed in thought, “Address me now, as my Queen, tell me of your objections, your questions, and your concerns. I will listen and you will not falter in your words. Show me that you are every bit a queen by birth as by merit,” The seriousness in his tone intensified, as did the look for scrutiny in his eyes. Coming to the decision to leave all that was his in her hands had not been a simple task. Gods, let it not be now that he regret this choice.
“Show me that you are ready.”
Her poise as she entered his domain did not escape him. Her head was held high like a true queen, not like the child he still was convinced she was. He was, in a way, impressed that she refused to cow under his intimidating eye and cruel hand. He had struck her for her insolence and it appeared in the time after that she had learned the cost of impudence. Good. He would need a queen, not a child, for what he had in store for her.
He did not hide the fact that he was looking her over, perhaps searching for a sign that she was unworthy to hear the news he was about to deliver. The conflicted glint in his eyes remained, even as he resolved that she would have no choice but to be ready. Maybe that childishness would come to be useful to some degree. Surely, she would not want her mother to rule completely in his place.
She did well to sit where he commanded her to and say nothing more. He was not in the mood to be challenged.
“There is war upon the horizon,” he said, “and with war comes change.”
“It is time for you to be a queen.”
“I will be going to war for a time, and you will rule in my place. I trust Zoser will do well to advise you on matters in which you know little and your mother to guide you.” He watched her closely for a reaction. How would she feel about this sudden responsibility? Did she know it was truly a test? Could she even comprehend what he was looking for from her? For her sake and the sake of the kingdom he was leaving behind, he prayed to the Gods she did, for there would be no stopping his wrath should she fail.
“The serving boy who died drinking wine meant for my lips is a lesson to us all. How easily could it have been in your cup? You carry my child and the future of Egypt, I will not leave you unprotected in my absence. The palace guards cannot be trusted -- their loyalties can be bought. In place of the palace guards, I have charged Osorsen with finding his most loyal men to protect you. I should hope you find no issue with that.”
He noticed the space between them, though he said nothing. It was true he could command her to come to his side and she would without question, less he discipline her again, however, there were more trying matters at hand.
“If you are to be a queen in my absence, you must make your wishes known,” his brows furrowed in thought, “Address me now, as my Queen, tell me of your objections, your questions, and your concerns. I will listen and you will not falter in your words. Show me that you are every bit a queen by birth as by merit,” The seriousness in his tone intensified, as did the look for scrutiny in his eyes. Coming to the decision to leave all that was his in her hands had not been a simple task. Gods, let it not be now that he regret this choice.
“Show me that you are ready.”
Hatshepsut was demure by nature, and perhaps if Iahotep had not required her complete obedience, she would have given it to him willingly. However, she didn't like being ordered around and since her marriage, had become a bit bolder simply because it defied him. Never in his presence, of course. When he was not with her, she was taking the initiative more often when it came to her responsibilities. She still relied heavily on her mother and Zoser, but she was suggesting ways to handle various problems and making decisions on her own. It was as if being married to this cruel barbarous tyrant had awakened a desire to wield a power of her own. There was nothing like a good challenge to bring one out of one's shell.
She was still shy and didn't like speaking publicly, but she was determined to overcome those aspects of her personality. It wouldn't happen overnight, she knew. It was a goal to work toward for the future. The petite Queen was young and still had some growing up to do.
Inwardly, she seethed as she waited for her husband to speak, figuring that he would make her wait just to watch her squirm. She resolved to sit still as a stone and not give him the satisfaction of letting him see how uncomfortable he made her. That training he had mocked on the day after their wedding allowed her to keep her composure even under his penetrating gaze. Hatshepsut did keep her eyes locked on his, though, refusing to appear cowed in any way.
Of course there was war on the way. She had fainted on the day he had made the announcement. Had he forgotten that already? Whatever changes he spoke of were most likely not going to be good for Egypt or for her, but …
“It is time for you to be a queen. I will be going to war for a time, and you will rule in my place.
Though she tried to keep her expression neutral, her dark eyes widened and it was all she could do to keep her mouth from dropping to the floor. Her heart pounded so loudly in her chest that she was absolutely certain that Iahotep would be able to hear it. He was putting her in charge of the kingdom in his absence. Why? To punish her when she failed? Or could it be that he really did want her to rule by his side and was giving her the chance to prove herself?
Strangely enough, she did want to earn his respect. Yes, she hated him, but she didn't want him to think she was utterly worthless. This was her chance to show him that she would be an effective ruler, and for him to see her as an equal and not as a child. Hatshepsut didn't think she would ever love him, but he was her husband and they should work together for the good of their kingdom. Also, if she gained his trust, she could guide him into being kind and fair. Her people deserved a compassionate Pharaoh, and she could show him how to be one.
If she succeeded at this daunting task he had set for her.
Momentarily speechless, which had probably been his intention, Hatshepsut listened to him speak of the attempt on his life. Of course he wanted to keep his child safe, though she doubted his protective tendencies would extend to her if she had not been pregnant. Still, she was grateful for his consideration for her well-being. She had already hired a taster to sample her food, but there was nothing she could do if one of her personal guards betrayed her. Osorsen … her beloved Oso … would never let anything happen to her.
Whether or not Iahotep knew of the relationship between his wife and his General, he had chosen the right person to select men to protect her. Maybe they could also convey messages back and forth while her lover was at war. She would be worried sick about him and even a short message every now and then would reassure her that he was all right.
Pulling her mind back to the present, she shook her head to tell her husband she had no objections to Osorsen choosing her guards. He then gave her permission to speak. Iahtop seemed to want her to succeed, for some reason. Maybe after his first few months as Pharaoh, he had realized that she could be beneficial to him.
Her eyes didn't leave his. “I have no objections, my Pharaoh. I am pleased that you trust me to rule in your place. I am already thinking of what Egypt will need during the war. I'm sure you have heard of the event I recently held, bringing the noblewoman together to so that we will bond with each other in this time of conflict. It was my own idea and I planned it myself, with no help from my mother.
“That was the first step. Since there has been peace throughout my life, I would like to know what to expect and how to keep our people safe with invaders on our doorstep. You are the veteran of many wars; you must know how they affect a kingdom. That is what I wish most to know so that I can protect Egypt the way you are protecting me.”
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Hatshepsut was demure by nature, and perhaps if Iahotep had not required her complete obedience, she would have given it to him willingly. However, she didn't like being ordered around and since her marriage, had become a bit bolder simply because it defied him. Never in his presence, of course. When he was not with her, she was taking the initiative more often when it came to her responsibilities. She still relied heavily on her mother and Zoser, but she was suggesting ways to handle various problems and making decisions on her own. It was as if being married to this cruel barbarous tyrant had awakened a desire to wield a power of her own. There was nothing like a good challenge to bring one out of one's shell.
She was still shy and didn't like speaking publicly, but she was determined to overcome those aspects of her personality. It wouldn't happen overnight, she knew. It was a goal to work toward for the future. The petite Queen was young and still had some growing up to do.
Inwardly, she seethed as she waited for her husband to speak, figuring that he would make her wait just to watch her squirm. She resolved to sit still as a stone and not give him the satisfaction of letting him see how uncomfortable he made her. That training he had mocked on the day after their wedding allowed her to keep her composure even under his penetrating gaze. Hatshepsut did keep her eyes locked on his, though, refusing to appear cowed in any way.
Of course there was war on the way. She had fainted on the day he had made the announcement. Had he forgotten that already? Whatever changes he spoke of were most likely not going to be good for Egypt or for her, but …
“It is time for you to be a queen. I will be going to war for a time, and you will rule in my place.
Though she tried to keep her expression neutral, her dark eyes widened and it was all she could do to keep her mouth from dropping to the floor. Her heart pounded so loudly in her chest that she was absolutely certain that Iahotep would be able to hear it. He was putting her in charge of the kingdom in his absence. Why? To punish her when she failed? Or could it be that he really did want her to rule by his side and was giving her the chance to prove herself?
Strangely enough, she did want to earn his respect. Yes, she hated him, but she didn't want him to think she was utterly worthless. This was her chance to show him that she would be an effective ruler, and for him to see her as an equal and not as a child. Hatshepsut didn't think she would ever love him, but he was her husband and they should work together for the good of their kingdom. Also, if she gained his trust, she could guide him into being kind and fair. Her people deserved a compassionate Pharaoh, and she could show him how to be one.
If she succeeded at this daunting task he had set for her.
Momentarily speechless, which had probably been his intention, Hatshepsut listened to him speak of the attempt on his life. Of course he wanted to keep his child safe, though she doubted his protective tendencies would extend to her if she had not been pregnant. Still, she was grateful for his consideration for her well-being. She had already hired a taster to sample her food, but there was nothing she could do if one of her personal guards betrayed her. Osorsen … her beloved Oso … would never let anything happen to her.
Whether or not Iahotep knew of the relationship between his wife and his General, he had chosen the right person to select men to protect her. Maybe they could also convey messages back and forth while her lover was at war. She would be worried sick about him and even a short message every now and then would reassure her that he was all right.
Pulling her mind back to the present, she shook her head to tell her husband she had no objections to Osorsen choosing her guards. He then gave her permission to speak. Iahtop seemed to want her to succeed, for some reason. Maybe after his first few months as Pharaoh, he had realized that she could be beneficial to him.
Her eyes didn't leave his. “I have no objections, my Pharaoh. I am pleased that you trust me to rule in your place. I am already thinking of what Egypt will need during the war. I'm sure you have heard of the event I recently held, bringing the noblewoman together to so that we will bond with each other in this time of conflict. It was my own idea and I planned it myself, with no help from my mother.
“That was the first step. Since there has been peace throughout my life, I would like to know what to expect and how to keep our people safe with invaders on our doorstep. You are the veteran of many wars; you must know how they affect a kingdom. That is what I wish most to know so that I can protect Egypt the way you are protecting me.”
Hatshepsut was demure by nature, and perhaps if Iahotep had not required her complete obedience, she would have given it to him willingly. However, she didn't like being ordered around and since her marriage, had become a bit bolder simply because it defied him. Never in his presence, of course. When he was not with her, she was taking the initiative more often when it came to her responsibilities. She still relied heavily on her mother and Zoser, but she was suggesting ways to handle various problems and making decisions on her own. It was as if being married to this cruel barbarous tyrant had awakened a desire to wield a power of her own. There was nothing like a good challenge to bring one out of one's shell.
She was still shy and didn't like speaking publicly, but she was determined to overcome those aspects of her personality. It wouldn't happen overnight, she knew. It was a goal to work toward for the future. The petite Queen was young and still had some growing up to do.
Inwardly, she seethed as she waited for her husband to speak, figuring that he would make her wait just to watch her squirm. She resolved to sit still as a stone and not give him the satisfaction of letting him see how uncomfortable he made her. That training he had mocked on the day after their wedding allowed her to keep her composure even under his penetrating gaze. Hatshepsut did keep her eyes locked on his, though, refusing to appear cowed in any way.
Of course there was war on the way. She had fainted on the day he had made the announcement. Had he forgotten that already? Whatever changes he spoke of were most likely not going to be good for Egypt or for her, but …
“It is time for you to be a queen. I will be going to war for a time, and you will rule in my place.
Though she tried to keep her expression neutral, her dark eyes widened and it was all she could do to keep her mouth from dropping to the floor. Her heart pounded so loudly in her chest that she was absolutely certain that Iahotep would be able to hear it. He was putting her in charge of the kingdom in his absence. Why? To punish her when she failed? Or could it be that he really did want her to rule by his side and was giving her the chance to prove herself?
Strangely enough, she did want to earn his respect. Yes, she hated him, but she didn't want him to think she was utterly worthless. This was her chance to show him that she would be an effective ruler, and for him to see her as an equal and not as a child. Hatshepsut didn't think she would ever love him, but he was her husband and they should work together for the good of their kingdom. Also, if she gained his trust, she could guide him into being kind and fair. Her people deserved a compassionate Pharaoh, and she could show him how to be one.
If she succeeded at this daunting task he had set for her.
Momentarily speechless, which had probably been his intention, Hatshepsut listened to him speak of the attempt on his life. Of course he wanted to keep his child safe, though she doubted his protective tendencies would extend to her if she had not been pregnant. Still, she was grateful for his consideration for her well-being. She had already hired a taster to sample her food, but there was nothing she could do if one of her personal guards betrayed her. Osorsen … her beloved Oso … would never let anything happen to her.
Whether or not Iahotep knew of the relationship between his wife and his General, he had chosen the right person to select men to protect her. Maybe they could also convey messages back and forth while her lover was at war. She would be worried sick about him and even a short message every now and then would reassure her that he was all right.
Pulling her mind back to the present, she shook her head to tell her husband she had no objections to Osorsen choosing her guards. He then gave her permission to speak. Iahtop seemed to want her to succeed, for some reason. Maybe after his first few months as Pharaoh, he had realized that she could be beneficial to him.
Her eyes didn't leave his. “I have no objections, my Pharaoh. I am pleased that you trust me to rule in your place. I am already thinking of what Egypt will need during the war. I'm sure you have heard of the event I recently held, bringing the noblewoman together to so that we will bond with each other in this time of conflict. It was my own idea and I planned it myself, with no help from my mother.
“That was the first step. Since there has been peace throughout my life, I would like to know what to expect and how to keep our people safe with invaders on our doorstep. You are the veteran of many wars; you must know how they affect a kingdom. That is what I wish most to know so that I can protect Egypt the way you are protecting me.”
Iahotep nodded slightly to her, a small, rare, show of his approval. "I hear many things, my Queen, but few have pleased me than to hear that you are using your power." And without the aid of her mother? Perhaps she was truly learning. He found that Isetheperu had an irritating tendency to push her head into his business, claiming it was her right. Perhaps she was correct on that front, seeing as she was his most powerful ally (something she was keen on reminding him of), perhaps she was not, as he was no child and she was not his regent. What concerned him most was that Hatshepsut was using her position to be proactive, with or without his permission. It was likely a good thing she did not mention her little event to him beforehand -- he would have been quite dismissive of the idea. Most women tended to be silly things -- he would leave them to her.
Her question was not an unfounded one. It impressed him. She was asking of important matters and he was pleased that she did so unprompted. There may have been hope for her yet. "If all goes accordingly, you shall notice little to no difference," he began, "perhaps a shortage of certain delicacies, but I intend to keep the Greeks far away from you." That, was not a lie. She carried his child, and the future of Egypt, something his enemies would do anything to destroy. He would help her realize this if she did not already.
"I will not lie to you, my Queen; you are a target. You are loved by our people, but the Greeks will harbor no such love for you. What they see is the woman who carries the fate of Egypt inside her womb and they will do anything to ensure that our child is not born.” His tone was calm, “I have seen to it that you will be protected, but even in your safety, trust no one." His gaze intensified with the solemnity of his words. “Neither Zoser or your mother. You must learn to keep them at arm's length, or you will be taken advantage of.” Especially not her mother.
"The most dangerous situation as it concerns you, I can only inform you of -- a city under siege. There is no way to practice for this, nor lesson that will fully prepare you. In this situation, you must rely only on your wits and no one else. War breeds cowards, and a city under siege is an opportunity for betrayal. Even your loved ones would turn on you if it means their lives will be spared. You are not so lucky. If the Greeks take this city, they will try to end your life and the life of our child.” He allowed her to think on that for a moment.
“-that being said, I will not allow the Greeks to set foot in this city if it means I must burn it to the ground," his brows furrowed, "but you must be aware of it, nonetheless."
"The people will panic and crime is common. People will be slaughtered, but I am afraid there is little you can do for them. It is in this time that you must be concerned with only yourself. You are a compassionate woman, this I understand, but if the Greeks take the city, your safety is all that matters." If she understood nothing else, then may this be the one part she did. "There have already been plans put into place to remove you and the Queen Dowager from that situation -- you may discuss them in more detail with Zoser if you wish."
And then, he was quiet, simply watching her. Something wasn’t right.
No….
How would she ever learn these lessons if he simply told her? No, no. This wouldn’t do. Not at all. There was only one way for her to learn, and he was going to teach her right now. If she looked, she would notice that his gaze was darkening, promising something sinister.
That would be her only warning before his hands shot out and grabbed a fistful of her hair in a tight, painful grip. Snarling, he forcefully pulled her off the bed and to the ground, completely unconcerned about how she would land on the floor. He moved quickly, a hand finding its place of her throat and squeezing with the intent to kill. “But that doesn’t matter, because-” His voice was dark and murderous, his eyes were clouded with a violent craze. He wanted nothing more in that moment to than to watch the panic and fear come alight in her eyes. He wanted to see the pretty mask she wore shatter into a million pieces and crumble into nothingness.
“-I’m going to kill you.”
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Iahotep nodded slightly to her, a small, rare, show of his approval. "I hear many things, my Queen, but few have pleased me than to hear that you are using your power." And without the aid of her mother? Perhaps she was truly learning. He found that Isetheperu had an irritating tendency to push her head into his business, claiming it was her right. Perhaps she was correct on that front, seeing as she was his most powerful ally (something she was keen on reminding him of), perhaps she was not, as he was no child and she was not his regent. What concerned him most was that Hatshepsut was using her position to be proactive, with or without his permission. It was likely a good thing she did not mention her little event to him beforehand -- he would have been quite dismissive of the idea. Most women tended to be silly things -- he would leave them to her.
Her question was not an unfounded one. It impressed him. She was asking of important matters and he was pleased that she did so unprompted. There may have been hope for her yet. "If all goes accordingly, you shall notice little to no difference," he began, "perhaps a shortage of certain delicacies, but I intend to keep the Greeks far away from you." That, was not a lie. She carried his child, and the future of Egypt, something his enemies would do anything to destroy. He would help her realize this if she did not already.
"I will not lie to you, my Queen; you are a target. You are loved by our people, but the Greeks will harbor no such love for you. What they see is the woman who carries the fate of Egypt inside her womb and they will do anything to ensure that our child is not born.” His tone was calm, “I have seen to it that you will be protected, but even in your safety, trust no one." His gaze intensified with the solemnity of his words. “Neither Zoser or your mother. You must learn to keep them at arm's length, or you will be taken advantage of.” Especially not her mother.
"The most dangerous situation as it concerns you, I can only inform you of -- a city under siege. There is no way to practice for this, nor lesson that will fully prepare you. In this situation, you must rely only on your wits and no one else. War breeds cowards, and a city under siege is an opportunity for betrayal. Even your loved ones would turn on you if it means their lives will be spared. You are not so lucky. If the Greeks take this city, they will try to end your life and the life of our child.” He allowed her to think on that for a moment.
“-that being said, I will not allow the Greeks to set foot in this city if it means I must burn it to the ground," his brows furrowed, "but you must be aware of it, nonetheless."
"The people will panic and crime is common. People will be slaughtered, but I am afraid there is little you can do for them. It is in this time that you must be concerned with only yourself. You are a compassionate woman, this I understand, but if the Greeks take the city, your safety is all that matters." If she understood nothing else, then may this be the one part she did. "There have already been plans put into place to remove you and the Queen Dowager from that situation -- you may discuss them in more detail with Zoser if you wish."
And then, he was quiet, simply watching her. Something wasn’t right.
No….
How would she ever learn these lessons if he simply told her? No, no. This wouldn’t do. Not at all. There was only one way for her to learn, and he was going to teach her right now. If she looked, she would notice that his gaze was darkening, promising something sinister.
That would be her only warning before his hands shot out and grabbed a fistful of her hair in a tight, painful grip. Snarling, he forcefully pulled her off the bed and to the ground, completely unconcerned about how she would land on the floor. He moved quickly, a hand finding its place of her throat and squeezing with the intent to kill. “But that doesn’t matter, because-” His voice was dark and murderous, his eyes were clouded with a violent craze. He wanted nothing more in that moment to than to watch the panic and fear come alight in her eyes. He wanted to see the pretty mask she wore shatter into a million pieces and crumble into nothingness.
“-I’m going to kill you.”
Iahotep nodded slightly to her, a small, rare, show of his approval. "I hear many things, my Queen, but few have pleased me than to hear that you are using your power." And without the aid of her mother? Perhaps she was truly learning. He found that Isetheperu had an irritating tendency to push her head into his business, claiming it was her right. Perhaps she was correct on that front, seeing as she was his most powerful ally (something she was keen on reminding him of), perhaps she was not, as he was no child and she was not his regent. What concerned him most was that Hatshepsut was using her position to be proactive, with or without his permission. It was likely a good thing she did not mention her little event to him beforehand -- he would have been quite dismissive of the idea. Most women tended to be silly things -- he would leave them to her.
Her question was not an unfounded one. It impressed him. She was asking of important matters and he was pleased that she did so unprompted. There may have been hope for her yet. "If all goes accordingly, you shall notice little to no difference," he began, "perhaps a shortage of certain delicacies, but I intend to keep the Greeks far away from you." That, was not a lie. She carried his child, and the future of Egypt, something his enemies would do anything to destroy. He would help her realize this if she did not already.
"I will not lie to you, my Queen; you are a target. You are loved by our people, but the Greeks will harbor no such love for you. What they see is the woman who carries the fate of Egypt inside her womb and they will do anything to ensure that our child is not born.” His tone was calm, “I have seen to it that you will be protected, but even in your safety, trust no one." His gaze intensified with the solemnity of his words. “Neither Zoser or your mother. You must learn to keep them at arm's length, or you will be taken advantage of.” Especially not her mother.
"The most dangerous situation as it concerns you, I can only inform you of -- a city under siege. There is no way to practice for this, nor lesson that will fully prepare you. In this situation, you must rely only on your wits and no one else. War breeds cowards, and a city under siege is an opportunity for betrayal. Even your loved ones would turn on you if it means their lives will be spared. You are not so lucky. If the Greeks take this city, they will try to end your life and the life of our child.” He allowed her to think on that for a moment.
“-that being said, I will not allow the Greeks to set foot in this city if it means I must burn it to the ground," his brows furrowed, "but you must be aware of it, nonetheless."
"The people will panic and crime is common. People will be slaughtered, but I am afraid there is little you can do for them. It is in this time that you must be concerned with only yourself. You are a compassionate woman, this I understand, but if the Greeks take the city, your safety is all that matters." If she understood nothing else, then may this be the one part she did. "There have already been plans put into place to remove you and the Queen Dowager from that situation -- you may discuss them in more detail with Zoser if you wish."
And then, he was quiet, simply watching her. Something wasn’t right.
No….
How would she ever learn these lessons if he simply told her? No, no. This wouldn’t do. Not at all. There was only one way for her to learn, and he was going to teach her right now. If she looked, she would notice that his gaze was darkening, promising something sinister.
That would be her only warning before his hands shot out and grabbed a fistful of her hair in a tight, painful grip. Snarling, he forcefully pulled her off the bed and to the ground, completely unconcerned about how she would land on the floor. He moved quickly, a hand finding its place of her throat and squeezing with the intent to kill. “But that doesn’t matter, because-” His voice was dark and murderous, his eyes were clouded with a violent craze. He wanted nothing more in that moment to than to watch the panic and fear come alight in her eyes. He wanted to see the pretty mask she wore shatter into a million pieces and crumble into nothingness.
“-I’m going to kill you.”
Hatshepsut could hardly believe what her husband had just said. Had she truly done something that pleased him? She had not held the event for that reason, but she had planned to tell him about it so that he would know that she wasn't as useless as he thought she was. It was a small thing, really, to bring the noblewomen together, but she believed that it had been needed. They were as united now as they would ever be, and she doubted not that if they required help during the war, they would come to her for assistance, knowing that she would never turn them down.
And that would be easier now that Iahotep was giving her full authority over Egypt. She would not even have to ask the Council for permission. Her orders would be carried out without question. Those in positions of power would never dare to disobey their vicious Pharaoh, who would learn of their lack of compliance when he returned. For such insubordination, he would most likely execute them in a tortuous and slow manner and give their place to somebody completely loyal to him. The fear he inspired in others, as much as she hated it, would serve her well in his absence.
Iahotep seemed satisfied with her questions as well. Maybe his attitude toward her would finally change and he would see her as a competent Queen and not a spoiled child. She wasn't as immature as he thought her to be. Hatshepsut knew that she couldn't prove her worth to him overnight, that it would take a lot of effort on her part to alter his poor opinion of her. The war would provide the perfect opportunity to show him what she was really made of.
She knew she would still rely on the advice of her mother and Zoser but ultimately, all decisions would be up to her. The fact that so much responsibility was going to rest on her slender shoulders struck fear into her heart and yet filled her with excitement too. I can do this. I must do this. I shall look upon it as a challenge, a test of the training I received throughout my life, and I will show my husband and myself that I am a Queen in every sense of the word, and not just by birth.
He told her what she wished to know about the effects of war. It didn't seem all that bad, and Hatshepsut grudgingly respected him for taking his role so seriously. Maybe she had been as wrong about him as he had been about her. He did appear to care about Egypt and the welfare of its people and not just his selfish desire for power. She knew that he was formidable in war; it was his military prowess that had impressed the Council into choosing him to be Pharaoh. And yes, she understood that she and her unborn child would be in danger even if the Greeks didn't invade Cairo. There would be attempts on her life by mercenaries or spies. Egypt would be weakened if the Queen and the heir to the kingdom should perish.
She held no foolish ideas that her death would be quick either. Most likely, she would be taken to Greece and thrown into a dungeon. When her child was born, she would be forced to watch while they threw the defenseless baby to their dogs to be ripped apart or bashed its head against a wall. Hatshepsut decided that she would not allow herself to be captured. She would ask Skylla for a vial of poison, and if defeat was inevitable, she would die by her own hand.
Trust no one? Not even her mother and Zosie? They loved her and would gladly give their lives to save hers. Hatshepsut recalled the many tomes of history she had read. Mothers betrayed their sons, children betrayed their fathers. Most people had a strong sense of self-preservation and even if they claimed they would never turn on their loved ones, they truly had no idea what they would do until they were in a life or death situation. She believed that she would never turn on anyone she cared for … but would she if it would guarantee that her child would live? The fact that she doubted even her own beliefs told her that Iahotep was right and she would have to rely on nobody but herself.
The notion of Cairo being burned to the ground upset her, but it was better than the Greeks getting their hands on it. She wasn't surprised that Iahotep had already made plans to spirit her and her mother away if the city was invaded. Even if she wasn't important to him, his child was. It bothered her that she would not be able to save her people, but one lone woman … Queen or not … could not defeat an entire army. Her child and her kingdom would have no future if she did not survive.
She was pondering these things so intently that she did not notice the way Iahotep was watching her. Finally, she raised her eyes, intending to tell him that she would never endanger herself or her child and would follow the instructions he had apparently given Zoser. Her words froze on her lips when she saw the malevolent expression that contorted his face. Was he not satisfied that she had asked for his guidance? Why was he …?
What happened next was swift and unexpected. He grabbed a handful of her hair and dragged her off the bed, snarling ominously. Her body screamed in agony as it hit the hard, unyielding floor. Before her mind had time to process this sudden change in his demeanor, Iahotep grabbed her throat and began to squeeze the breath from her lungs. A murderous rage glittered in his eyes as he told her he was going to kill her. He was mad! He had to be! Why would he slay his own child?
Her child …
No! She was not going to let her baby die! Hatshepsut gasped for air as he tried to crush her throat. Her vision blurred, not with impending unconsciousness but with a red haze of anger. Raising her legs and bending her knees, she pushed with all of her might against her husband's chest. He fell back, losing his balance, and as she took a great gulp of air, she rose to a kneeling position and launched herself on top of him, straddling his waist. One hand whipped out and slapped him hard across the side of his face. “You will never hurt me again!” she shouted, hardly recognizing her own furious voice. “You have no right to treat me this way, and if you ever lay a hand on me from this moment forward, I swear that you will regret it to the end of your days”
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Check out their information page here.
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Hatshepsut could hardly believe what her husband had just said. Had she truly done something that pleased him? She had not held the event for that reason, but she had planned to tell him about it so that he would know that she wasn't as useless as he thought she was. It was a small thing, really, to bring the noblewomen together, but she believed that it had been needed. They were as united now as they would ever be, and she doubted not that if they required help during the war, they would come to her for assistance, knowing that she would never turn them down.
And that would be easier now that Iahotep was giving her full authority over Egypt. She would not even have to ask the Council for permission. Her orders would be carried out without question. Those in positions of power would never dare to disobey their vicious Pharaoh, who would learn of their lack of compliance when he returned. For such insubordination, he would most likely execute them in a tortuous and slow manner and give their place to somebody completely loyal to him. The fear he inspired in others, as much as she hated it, would serve her well in his absence.
Iahotep seemed satisfied with her questions as well. Maybe his attitude toward her would finally change and he would see her as a competent Queen and not a spoiled child. She wasn't as immature as he thought her to be. Hatshepsut knew that she couldn't prove her worth to him overnight, that it would take a lot of effort on her part to alter his poor opinion of her. The war would provide the perfect opportunity to show him what she was really made of.
She knew she would still rely on the advice of her mother and Zoser but ultimately, all decisions would be up to her. The fact that so much responsibility was going to rest on her slender shoulders struck fear into her heart and yet filled her with excitement too. I can do this. I must do this. I shall look upon it as a challenge, a test of the training I received throughout my life, and I will show my husband and myself that I am a Queen in every sense of the word, and not just by birth.
He told her what she wished to know about the effects of war. It didn't seem all that bad, and Hatshepsut grudgingly respected him for taking his role so seriously. Maybe she had been as wrong about him as he had been about her. He did appear to care about Egypt and the welfare of its people and not just his selfish desire for power. She knew that he was formidable in war; it was his military prowess that had impressed the Council into choosing him to be Pharaoh. And yes, she understood that she and her unborn child would be in danger even if the Greeks didn't invade Cairo. There would be attempts on her life by mercenaries or spies. Egypt would be weakened if the Queen and the heir to the kingdom should perish.
She held no foolish ideas that her death would be quick either. Most likely, she would be taken to Greece and thrown into a dungeon. When her child was born, she would be forced to watch while they threw the defenseless baby to their dogs to be ripped apart or bashed its head against a wall. Hatshepsut decided that she would not allow herself to be captured. She would ask Skylla for a vial of poison, and if defeat was inevitable, she would die by her own hand.
Trust no one? Not even her mother and Zosie? They loved her and would gladly give their lives to save hers. Hatshepsut recalled the many tomes of history she had read. Mothers betrayed their sons, children betrayed their fathers. Most people had a strong sense of self-preservation and even if they claimed they would never turn on their loved ones, they truly had no idea what they would do until they were in a life or death situation. She believed that she would never turn on anyone she cared for … but would she if it would guarantee that her child would live? The fact that she doubted even her own beliefs told her that Iahotep was right and she would have to rely on nobody but herself.
The notion of Cairo being burned to the ground upset her, but it was better than the Greeks getting their hands on it. She wasn't surprised that Iahotep had already made plans to spirit her and her mother away if the city was invaded. Even if she wasn't important to him, his child was. It bothered her that she would not be able to save her people, but one lone woman … Queen or not … could not defeat an entire army. Her child and her kingdom would have no future if she did not survive.
She was pondering these things so intently that she did not notice the way Iahotep was watching her. Finally, she raised her eyes, intending to tell him that she would never endanger herself or her child and would follow the instructions he had apparently given Zoser. Her words froze on her lips when she saw the malevolent expression that contorted his face. Was he not satisfied that she had asked for his guidance? Why was he …?
What happened next was swift and unexpected. He grabbed a handful of her hair and dragged her off the bed, snarling ominously. Her body screamed in agony as it hit the hard, unyielding floor. Before her mind had time to process this sudden change in his demeanor, Iahotep grabbed her throat and began to squeeze the breath from her lungs. A murderous rage glittered in his eyes as he told her he was going to kill her. He was mad! He had to be! Why would he slay his own child?
Her child …
No! She was not going to let her baby die! Hatshepsut gasped for air as he tried to crush her throat. Her vision blurred, not with impending unconsciousness but with a red haze of anger. Raising her legs and bending her knees, she pushed with all of her might against her husband's chest. He fell back, losing his balance, and as she took a great gulp of air, she rose to a kneeling position and launched herself on top of him, straddling his waist. One hand whipped out and slapped him hard across the side of his face. “You will never hurt me again!” she shouted, hardly recognizing her own furious voice. “You have no right to treat me this way, and if you ever lay a hand on me from this moment forward, I swear that you will regret it to the end of your days”
Hatshepsut could hardly believe what her husband had just said. Had she truly done something that pleased him? She had not held the event for that reason, but she had planned to tell him about it so that he would know that she wasn't as useless as he thought she was. It was a small thing, really, to bring the noblewomen together, but she believed that it had been needed. They were as united now as they would ever be, and she doubted not that if they required help during the war, they would come to her for assistance, knowing that she would never turn them down.
And that would be easier now that Iahotep was giving her full authority over Egypt. She would not even have to ask the Council for permission. Her orders would be carried out without question. Those in positions of power would never dare to disobey their vicious Pharaoh, who would learn of their lack of compliance when he returned. For such insubordination, he would most likely execute them in a tortuous and slow manner and give their place to somebody completely loyal to him. The fear he inspired in others, as much as she hated it, would serve her well in his absence.
Iahotep seemed satisfied with her questions as well. Maybe his attitude toward her would finally change and he would see her as a competent Queen and not a spoiled child. She wasn't as immature as he thought her to be. Hatshepsut knew that she couldn't prove her worth to him overnight, that it would take a lot of effort on her part to alter his poor opinion of her. The war would provide the perfect opportunity to show him what she was really made of.
She knew she would still rely on the advice of her mother and Zoser but ultimately, all decisions would be up to her. The fact that so much responsibility was going to rest on her slender shoulders struck fear into her heart and yet filled her with excitement too. I can do this. I must do this. I shall look upon it as a challenge, a test of the training I received throughout my life, and I will show my husband and myself that I am a Queen in every sense of the word, and not just by birth.
He told her what she wished to know about the effects of war. It didn't seem all that bad, and Hatshepsut grudgingly respected him for taking his role so seriously. Maybe she had been as wrong about him as he had been about her. He did appear to care about Egypt and the welfare of its people and not just his selfish desire for power. She knew that he was formidable in war; it was his military prowess that had impressed the Council into choosing him to be Pharaoh. And yes, she understood that she and her unborn child would be in danger even if the Greeks didn't invade Cairo. There would be attempts on her life by mercenaries or spies. Egypt would be weakened if the Queen and the heir to the kingdom should perish.
She held no foolish ideas that her death would be quick either. Most likely, she would be taken to Greece and thrown into a dungeon. When her child was born, she would be forced to watch while they threw the defenseless baby to their dogs to be ripped apart or bashed its head against a wall. Hatshepsut decided that she would not allow herself to be captured. She would ask Skylla for a vial of poison, and if defeat was inevitable, she would die by her own hand.
Trust no one? Not even her mother and Zosie? They loved her and would gladly give their lives to save hers. Hatshepsut recalled the many tomes of history she had read. Mothers betrayed their sons, children betrayed their fathers. Most people had a strong sense of self-preservation and even if they claimed they would never turn on their loved ones, they truly had no idea what they would do until they were in a life or death situation. She believed that she would never turn on anyone she cared for … but would she if it would guarantee that her child would live? The fact that she doubted even her own beliefs told her that Iahotep was right and she would have to rely on nobody but herself.
The notion of Cairo being burned to the ground upset her, but it was better than the Greeks getting their hands on it. She wasn't surprised that Iahotep had already made plans to spirit her and her mother away if the city was invaded. Even if she wasn't important to him, his child was. It bothered her that she would not be able to save her people, but one lone woman … Queen or not … could not defeat an entire army. Her child and her kingdom would have no future if she did not survive.
She was pondering these things so intently that she did not notice the way Iahotep was watching her. Finally, she raised her eyes, intending to tell him that she would never endanger herself or her child and would follow the instructions he had apparently given Zoser. Her words froze on her lips when she saw the malevolent expression that contorted his face. Was he not satisfied that she had asked for his guidance? Why was he …?
What happened next was swift and unexpected. He grabbed a handful of her hair and dragged her off the bed, snarling ominously. Her body screamed in agony as it hit the hard, unyielding floor. Before her mind had time to process this sudden change in his demeanor, Iahotep grabbed her throat and began to squeeze the breath from her lungs. A murderous rage glittered in his eyes as he told her he was going to kill her. He was mad! He had to be! Why would he slay his own child?
Her child …
No! She was not going to let her baby die! Hatshepsut gasped for air as he tried to crush her throat. Her vision blurred, not with impending unconsciousness but with a red haze of anger. Raising her legs and bending her knees, she pushed with all of her might against her husband's chest. He fell back, losing his balance, and as she took a great gulp of air, she rose to a kneeling position and launched herself on top of him, straddling his waist. One hand whipped out and slapped him hard across the side of his face. “You will never hurt me again!” she shouted, hardly recognizing her own furious voice. “You have no right to treat me this way, and if you ever lay a hand on me from this moment forward, I swear that you will regret it to the end of your days”
Listening to her gasp for air only fueled his murderous rage. She would not breathe until he deigned to allow her to. He squeezed tighter and tighter and tighter until his hands began cramping from the force in which he gripped her throat. He wanted to hear her try to cough and sputter. He wanted to squeeze Hatshepsut until she fainted. He wanted to choke the screams from her throat and feel her writhe under him in a vain attempt to free herself. He, however, would do none of those things. Iahotep, in murderous craze, did not account for a mother’s fierce desire to protect her child. His eyes, clouded with sadistic lust, did not notice how Hatshepsut bent her knees until they were on his chest, and by then it was far too late. He soon found himself on his back. An angry snarl ripped through his throat, hands reaching to snatch her kalasiris and drag her back to the ground.
They would never make it there.
The resounding sound of her palm colliding with his cheek filled the room, followed by a groan, more surprised than anything else. His head moved with the force of her blow. He sneered angrily, prepared to attack her again until he stopped himself upon hearing her voice. Soon after, the twisted delight in his eyes vanished. She had slapped him, but more importantly, the furious voice that addressed him did not sound like it belonged to the one it came from. Iahotep stared at his Queen for many moments before a smile pulled at his lips. It was slight and hardly noticeable but present nonetheless. Seeing Hatshepsut on top of him, furious and so...desirable send lust coursing through his body. “Is that so, my Queen?” he inquired, “what will you do, then, if I lay my hands on you here?” His hands raised from the ground and grabbed her by the hips.
Possessive and immensely pleased, Iahotep decided that he needed to have her. Right then, regardless of whether she wanted him or not. She was his, now more than ever and she had done incredibly well. Who was he to deny her a reward? “I have done as I have to teach you a valuable lesson-” he said, “-you may be turned on at a moments notice, when you are least expecting it. This you must keep in mind as you rule in my absence.” He watched her carefully, expecting that she would understand. “You have surprise me, my Queen, for I expected you to show weakness, to beg for mercy. You did none of these things and in doing so, have pleased me greatly.”
“That is the ferocity in which you must rule if you are to keep threats at bay. That is the ferocity that will show all beneath you that you are not to be trifled with. That is the ferocity I expect of my Queen. That is the ferocity that makes you all the more desirable,” he squeezed her hips, “I will have you Hatshepsut. I will have you before you revert back to your cowardly ways, so that I may pretend you are truly the Queen I require you to be.” His arousal was begging to be freed from its confines, but Iahotep made no move other that shifted his hips to feel himself rub against her. He easily could have thrown her to the side and been on top of her within seconds, but he did no such thing. He wanted to see if this moment of strength was merely that or the beginning of something he’d wanted since marrying her.
He needed a queen who could rule beside him, not be a thorn in his side. He needed a queen who could match his fury and not allow herself to be cowed by it. For the longest time, he believed Hatshepsut to be a spoiled child who knew nothing but what she had been told marriage would be like. Marriage that she seemed to vehemently be against for no other reason that because she didn’t like him. Yet, in slapping him, not only had she stirred his desires, but also a spark of hope. Hope that he could truly mold her into the woman he needed to rule alongside him. Hope that she was not a child, but a woman whose inner power had been hidden all this time. If that was true, then he wanted a taste of that power -- a true taste -- once more before it was forced back into its cage under the guise of demureness.
“My Queen,” he breathed deeply, closing his eyes, “strike me again.”
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Listening to her gasp for air only fueled his murderous rage. She would not breathe until he deigned to allow her to. He squeezed tighter and tighter and tighter until his hands began cramping from the force in which he gripped her throat. He wanted to hear her try to cough and sputter. He wanted to squeeze Hatshepsut until she fainted. He wanted to choke the screams from her throat and feel her writhe under him in a vain attempt to free herself. He, however, would do none of those things. Iahotep, in murderous craze, did not account for a mother’s fierce desire to protect her child. His eyes, clouded with sadistic lust, did not notice how Hatshepsut bent her knees until they were on his chest, and by then it was far too late. He soon found himself on his back. An angry snarl ripped through his throat, hands reaching to snatch her kalasiris and drag her back to the ground.
They would never make it there.
The resounding sound of her palm colliding with his cheek filled the room, followed by a groan, more surprised than anything else. His head moved with the force of her blow. He sneered angrily, prepared to attack her again until he stopped himself upon hearing her voice. Soon after, the twisted delight in his eyes vanished. She had slapped him, but more importantly, the furious voice that addressed him did not sound like it belonged to the one it came from. Iahotep stared at his Queen for many moments before a smile pulled at his lips. It was slight and hardly noticeable but present nonetheless. Seeing Hatshepsut on top of him, furious and so...desirable send lust coursing through his body. “Is that so, my Queen?” he inquired, “what will you do, then, if I lay my hands on you here?” His hands raised from the ground and grabbed her by the hips.
Possessive and immensely pleased, Iahotep decided that he needed to have her. Right then, regardless of whether she wanted him or not. She was his, now more than ever and she had done incredibly well. Who was he to deny her a reward? “I have done as I have to teach you a valuable lesson-” he said, “-you may be turned on at a moments notice, when you are least expecting it. This you must keep in mind as you rule in my absence.” He watched her carefully, expecting that she would understand. “You have surprise me, my Queen, for I expected you to show weakness, to beg for mercy. You did none of these things and in doing so, have pleased me greatly.”
“That is the ferocity in which you must rule if you are to keep threats at bay. That is the ferocity that will show all beneath you that you are not to be trifled with. That is the ferocity I expect of my Queen. That is the ferocity that makes you all the more desirable,” he squeezed her hips, “I will have you Hatshepsut. I will have you before you revert back to your cowardly ways, so that I may pretend you are truly the Queen I require you to be.” His arousal was begging to be freed from its confines, but Iahotep made no move other that shifted his hips to feel himself rub against her. He easily could have thrown her to the side and been on top of her within seconds, but he did no such thing. He wanted to see if this moment of strength was merely that or the beginning of something he’d wanted since marrying her.
He needed a queen who could rule beside him, not be a thorn in his side. He needed a queen who could match his fury and not allow herself to be cowed by it. For the longest time, he believed Hatshepsut to be a spoiled child who knew nothing but what she had been told marriage would be like. Marriage that she seemed to vehemently be against for no other reason that because she didn’t like him. Yet, in slapping him, not only had she stirred his desires, but also a spark of hope. Hope that he could truly mold her into the woman he needed to rule alongside him. Hope that she was not a child, but a woman whose inner power had been hidden all this time. If that was true, then he wanted a taste of that power -- a true taste -- once more before it was forced back into its cage under the guise of demureness.
“My Queen,” he breathed deeply, closing his eyes, “strike me again.”
Listening to her gasp for air only fueled his murderous rage. She would not breathe until he deigned to allow her to. He squeezed tighter and tighter and tighter until his hands began cramping from the force in which he gripped her throat. He wanted to hear her try to cough and sputter. He wanted to squeeze Hatshepsut until she fainted. He wanted to choke the screams from her throat and feel her writhe under him in a vain attempt to free herself. He, however, would do none of those things. Iahotep, in murderous craze, did not account for a mother’s fierce desire to protect her child. His eyes, clouded with sadistic lust, did not notice how Hatshepsut bent her knees until they were on his chest, and by then it was far too late. He soon found himself on his back. An angry snarl ripped through his throat, hands reaching to snatch her kalasiris and drag her back to the ground.
They would never make it there.
The resounding sound of her palm colliding with his cheek filled the room, followed by a groan, more surprised than anything else. His head moved with the force of her blow. He sneered angrily, prepared to attack her again until he stopped himself upon hearing her voice. Soon after, the twisted delight in his eyes vanished. She had slapped him, but more importantly, the furious voice that addressed him did not sound like it belonged to the one it came from. Iahotep stared at his Queen for many moments before a smile pulled at his lips. It was slight and hardly noticeable but present nonetheless. Seeing Hatshepsut on top of him, furious and so...desirable send lust coursing through his body. “Is that so, my Queen?” he inquired, “what will you do, then, if I lay my hands on you here?” His hands raised from the ground and grabbed her by the hips.
Possessive and immensely pleased, Iahotep decided that he needed to have her. Right then, regardless of whether she wanted him or not. She was his, now more than ever and she had done incredibly well. Who was he to deny her a reward? “I have done as I have to teach you a valuable lesson-” he said, “-you may be turned on at a moments notice, when you are least expecting it. This you must keep in mind as you rule in my absence.” He watched her carefully, expecting that she would understand. “You have surprise me, my Queen, for I expected you to show weakness, to beg for mercy. You did none of these things and in doing so, have pleased me greatly.”
“That is the ferocity in which you must rule if you are to keep threats at bay. That is the ferocity that will show all beneath you that you are not to be trifled with. That is the ferocity I expect of my Queen. That is the ferocity that makes you all the more desirable,” he squeezed her hips, “I will have you Hatshepsut. I will have you before you revert back to your cowardly ways, so that I may pretend you are truly the Queen I require you to be.” His arousal was begging to be freed from its confines, but Iahotep made no move other that shifted his hips to feel himself rub against her. He easily could have thrown her to the side and been on top of her within seconds, but he did no such thing. He wanted to see if this moment of strength was merely that or the beginning of something he’d wanted since marrying her.
He needed a queen who could rule beside him, not be a thorn in his side. He needed a queen who could match his fury and not allow herself to be cowed by it. For the longest time, he believed Hatshepsut to be a spoiled child who knew nothing but what she had been told marriage would be like. Marriage that she seemed to vehemently be against for no other reason that because she didn’t like him. Yet, in slapping him, not only had she stirred his desires, but also a spark of hope. Hope that he could truly mold her into the woman he needed to rule alongside him. Hope that she was not a child, but a woman whose inner power had been hidden all this time. If that was true, then he wanted a taste of that power -- a true taste -- once more before it was forced back into its cage under the guise of demureness.
“My Queen,” he breathed deeply, closing his eyes, “strike me again.”
Hatshepsut had been angry before, but the intense fury that now burned through her body, mind, and soul was completely new to her. She glared down at her husband, daring him to retaliate. She wanted to strangle him so that he knew what it felt like. Her hands clenched at her sides to keep her from stooping to his level, but if he made any move against her, she wouldn’t hesitate to choke the life out of him. She had meant every word that she had screamed at him. He would never abuse her again, not physically, not emotionally. Iahotep had endangered the precious little life growing within her and had nearly killed her, awakening a strong sense of self-preservation that she hadn’t realized she possessed. She knew without a doubt that she would fight tooth and nail against anyone who threatened her, this child, and any others she may have in the future. There was not an ounce of gentleness or kindness in her demeanor now.
And with her fury came an unprecedented elation that she had also never experienced before. Sitting upon her husband’s chest, having him at her mercy, she felt as if she had power for the first time in her young life. She could do anything, absolutely anything if she set her mind to it. Hatshepsut wasn’t afraid of the Pharaoh anymore and didn’t think she would ever be. She had just shown him what she was truly made of and in doing so, had discovered her own inner strength. The Queen knew that could overpower her at any time, but she also knew that she could defend herself against him.
Had the hint of a smile flashed across his face or was that just her imagination? Why had he not pushed her off already? Why didn't attempt to finish what he started? Why had she never noticed how attractive he was? Yes, he was nearly three times her age, but his features were finely chiseled and she felt as if she could drown in the depths of his passion-filled eyes. When he spoke, his voice reverberated through her, and his words didn’t register until he reached up with muscular arms and grabbed her hips. Hatshepsut gasped, startled, and nearly lost her balance. Her hands splayed across his bare chest. So warm. So well-formed. So …
No!
Her mind told her that the desire stirring within her was wrong, but her body told her that it was right.
She focused on the stinging in the hand that had slapped him as Iahotep explained why he had attacked her. He had been teaching her a lesson … a lesson that she needed to learn if she was to successfully rule in his absence. Anyone could turn on her at any time, even those she loved and trusted, especially in a time of war. Money was tempting and most people couldn’t resist its lure. No matter how careful she was, there would be spies in the palace who might bribe a servant or even a member of the Council to murder her so that the heir to Egypt’s throne would never draw breath. Freedom was what every slave craved. If it was dangled in front of their faces, they would not hesitate to act against their Queen to be free of the yoke of servitude.
There were Greeks already in Egypt. Greeks worked in the palace. Her own physician was Greek. Could she no longer trust Skylla? She could not trust anybody. Iahotep had made that perfectly clear. She must remain vigilant at all times, to anticipate trouble before it started. She had to analyze everything that everyone did and figure out their true motivations. Oddly enough, Hatshepsut knew that she could do it with a confidence that had so far had been alien to her. She was intelligent, she missed nothing, and she could often sense when others were lying. All of those skills would be tested in the weeks and perhaps months to come. She not only looked forward to the challenge, but she yearned for it.
Her eyes widened when Iahotep claimed that she had pleased him. Pride swelled inside her heart. Now that she knew what he wanted from her, she would be able to prove her worth as his Queen. Hatshepsut would rule by his side where she was meant to be. Though his tactics had been harsh, they had worked, and she had shown him that she was stronger than he had ever believed she could be.
And he wanted her. Right here and now. Usually, that notion would frighten and disgust her, but the bright little thrills spiraling through her nubile young body told an entirely different story. She longed for him too with an intensity that surprised and tamtalized her. Hatshepsut felt his arousal push against her and a deep but pleasurable ache pulsed between her thighs. No, this was not wrong. This was how it was supposed to be between a husband and wife and she would not deny herself or him the satisfaction they both craved. Her hands, still resting on his chest, seemed to move of their own volition, stroking, caressing, exploring. She still felt power coursing through her veins along with the exquisite and enthralling sensations of desire.
Iahotep closed his eyes and then demanded that she strike him again. A sultry smile slowly turned up the corners of her lips. “It will be my pleasure,” she whispered. Drawing back the hand that wasn’t already stinging, Hatshepsut slammed it against his cheek and when his head whipped to the side, she struck him again. Passion overtook her and she leaned forward, capturing his lips in a deep searing kiss while she pressed her curves against him, wishing that she had removed her kalisaris first so that she could feel his bare skin upon her own.
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This character is currently a work in progress.
Check out their information page here.
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Hatshepsut had been angry before, but the intense fury that now burned through her body, mind, and soul was completely new to her. She glared down at her husband, daring him to retaliate. She wanted to strangle him so that he knew what it felt like. Her hands clenched at her sides to keep her from stooping to his level, but if he made any move against her, she wouldn’t hesitate to choke the life out of him. She had meant every word that she had screamed at him. He would never abuse her again, not physically, not emotionally. Iahotep had endangered the precious little life growing within her and had nearly killed her, awakening a strong sense of self-preservation that she hadn’t realized she possessed. She knew without a doubt that she would fight tooth and nail against anyone who threatened her, this child, and any others she may have in the future. There was not an ounce of gentleness or kindness in her demeanor now.
And with her fury came an unprecedented elation that she had also never experienced before. Sitting upon her husband’s chest, having him at her mercy, she felt as if she had power for the first time in her young life. She could do anything, absolutely anything if she set her mind to it. Hatshepsut wasn’t afraid of the Pharaoh anymore and didn’t think she would ever be. She had just shown him what she was truly made of and in doing so, had discovered her own inner strength. The Queen knew that could overpower her at any time, but she also knew that she could defend herself against him.
Had the hint of a smile flashed across his face or was that just her imagination? Why had he not pushed her off already? Why didn't attempt to finish what he started? Why had she never noticed how attractive he was? Yes, he was nearly three times her age, but his features were finely chiseled and she felt as if she could drown in the depths of his passion-filled eyes. When he spoke, his voice reverberated through her, and his words didn’t register until he reached up with muscular arms and grabbed her hips. Hatshepsut gasped, startled, and nearly lost her balance. Her hands splayed across his bare chest. So warm. So well-formed. So …
No!
Her mind told her that the desire stirring within her was wrong, but her body told her that it was right.
She focused on the stinging in the hand that had slapped him as Iahotep explained why he had attacked her. He had been teaching her a lesson … a lesson that she needed to learn if she was to successfully rule in his absence. Anyone could turn on her at any time, even those she loved and trusted, especially in a time of war. Money was tempting and most people couldn’t resist its lure. No matter how careful she was, there would be spies in the palace who might bribe a servant or even a member of the Council to murder her so that the heir to Egypt’s throne would never draw breath. Freedom was what every slave craved. If it was dangled in front of their faces, they would not hesitate to act against their Queen to be free of the yoke of servitude.
There were Greeks already in Egypt. Greeks worked in the palace. Her own physician was Greek. Could she no longer trust Skylla? She could not trust anybody. Iahotep had made that perfectly clear. She must remain vigilant at all times, to anticipate trouble before it started. She had to analyze everything that everyone did and figure out their true motivations. Oddly enough, Hatshepsut knew that she could do it with a confidence that had so far had been alien to her. She was intelligent, she missed nothing, and she could often sense when others were lying. All of those skills would be tested in the weeks and perhaps months to come. She not only looked forward to the challenge, but she yearned for it.
Her eyes widened when Iahotep claimed that she had pleased him. Pride swelled inside her heart. Now that she knew what he wanted from her, she would be able to prove her worth as his Queen. Hatshepsut would rule by his side where she was meant to be. Though his tactics had been harsh, they had worked, and she had shown him that she was stronger than he had ever believed she could be.
And he wanted her. Right here and now. Usually, that notion would frighten and disgust her, but the bright little thrills spiraling through her nubile young body told an entirely different story. She longed for him too with an intensity that surprised and tamtalized her. Hatshepsut felt his arousal push against her and a deep but pleasurable ache pulsed between her thighs. No, this was not wrong. This was how it was supposed to be between a husband and wife and she would not deny herself or him the satisfaction they both craved. Her hands, still resting on his chest, seemed to move of their own volition, stroking, caressing, exploring. She still felt power coursing through her veins along with the exquisite and enthralling sensations of desire.
Iahotep closed his eyes and then demanded that she strike him again. A sultry smile slowly turned up the corners of her lips. “It will be my pleasure,” she whispered. Drawing back the hand that wasn’t already stinging, Hatshepsut slammed it against his cheek and when his head whipped to the side, she struck him again. Passion overtook her and she leaned forward, capturing his lips in a deep searing kiss while she pressed her curves against him, wishing that she had removed her kalisaris first so that she could feel his bare skin upon her own.
Hatshepsut had been angry before, but the intense fury that now burned through her body, mind, and soul was completely new to her. She glared down at her husband, daring him to retaliate. She wanted to strangle him so that he knew what it felt like. Her hands clenched at her sides to keep her from stooping to his level, but if he made any move against her, she wouldn’t hesitate to choke the life out of him. She had meant every word that she had screamed at him. He would never abuse her again, not physically, not emotionally. Iahotep had endangered the precious little life growing within her and had nearly killed her, awakening a strong sense of self-preservation that she hadn’t realized she possessed. She knew without a doubt that she would fight tooth and nail against anyone who threatened her, this child, and any others she may have in the future. There was not an ounce of gentleness or kindness in her demeanor now.
And with her fury came an unprecedented elation that she had also never experienced before. Sitting upon her husband’s chest, having him at her mercy, she felt as if she had power for the first time in her young life. She could do anything, absolutely anything if she set her mind to it. Hatshepsut wasn’t afraid of the Pharaoh anymore and didn’t think she would ever be. She had just shown him what she was truly made of and in doing so, had discovered her own inner strength. The Queen knew that could overpower her at any time, but she also knew that she could defend herself against him.
Had the hint of a smile flashed across his face or was that just her imagination? Why had he not pushed her off already? Why didn't attempt to finish what he started? Why had she never noticed how attractive he was? Yes, he was nearly three times her age, but his features were finely chiseled and she felt as if she could drown in the depths of his passion-filled eyes. When he spoke, his voice reverberated through her, and his words didn’t register until he reached up with muscular arms and grabbed her hips. Hatshepsut gasped, startled, and nearly lost her balance. Her hands splayed across his bare chest. So warm. So well-formed. So …
No!
Her mind told her that the desire stirring within her was wrong, but her body told her that it was right.
She focused on the stinging in the hand that had slapped him as Iahotep explained why he had attacked her. He had been teaching her a lesson … a lesson that she needed to learn if she was to successfully rule in his absence. Anyone could turn on her at any time, even those she loved and trusted, especially in a time of war. Money was tempting and most people couldn’t resist its lure. No matter how careful she was, there would be spies in the palace who might bribe a servant or even a member of the Council to murder her so that the heir to Egypt’s throne would never draw breath. Freedom was what every slave craved. If it was dangled in front of their faces, they would not hesitate to act against their Queen to be free of the yoke of servitude.
There were Greeks already in Egypt. Greeks worked in the palace. Her own physician was Greek. Could she no longer trust Skylla? She could not trust anybody. Iahotep had made that perfectly clear. She must remain vigilant at all times, to anticipate trouble before it started. She had to analyze everything that everyone did and figure out their true motivations. Oddly enough, Hatshepsut knew that she could do it with a confidence that had so far had been alien to her. She was intelligent, she missed nothing, and she could often sense when others were lying. All of those skills would be tested in the weeks and perhaps months to come. She not only looked forward to the challenge, but she yearned for it.
Her eyes widened when Iahotep claimed that she had pleased him. Pride swelled inside her heart. Now that she knew what he wanted from her, she would be able to prove her worth as his Queen. Hatshepsut would rule by his side where she was meant to be. Though his tactics had been harsh, they had worked, and she had shown him that she was stronger than he had ever believed she could be.
And he wanted her. Right here and now. Usually, that notion would frighten and disgust her, but the bright little thrills spiraling through her nubile young body told an entirely different story. She longed for him too with an intensity that surprised and tamtalized her. Hatshepsut felt his arousal push against her and a deep but pleasurable ache pulsed between her thighs. No, this was not wrong. This was how it was supposed to be between a husband and wife and she would not deny herself or him the satisfaction they both craved. Her hands, still resting on his chest, seemed to move of their own volition, stroking, caressing, exploring. She still felt power coursing through her veins along with the exquisite and enthralling sensations of desire.
Iahotep closed his eyes and then demanded that she strike him again. A sultry smile slowly turned up the corners of her lips. “It will be my pleasure,” she whispered. Drawing back the hand that wasn’t already stinging, Hatshepsut slammed it against his cheek and when his head whipped to the side, she struck him again. Passion overtook her and she leaned forward, capturing his lips in a deep searing kiss while she pressed her curves against him, wishing that she had removed her kalisaris first so that she could feel his bare skin upon her own.