Hotep tilted his head, You and Queen were littermates, and so your physical bodies prepare for this at a similar pace. You have surely noticed developments in your own masculinity, and a maturation of your appetites thereof, which mark the change. Your potency increases steadily, though it may not yet be fully peaked.

A wan smile, It is good to be familiar with each other and draw joy in the union. And though rarer, it is not altogether unheard of for a child to be conceived outside of this season, if that brings you comfort, Pharaoh.

Things for husbands and wives. Things for lovers. For equals. Hotep kept his mien, but felt the sharp clench in his belly of spear-gouged sorrow.

He then inhaled, expression growing serious once more. As to her safety, it would be wise indeed to ensure she is attended by at least one trusted warrioress or eunuch, if her contingent cannot be made of them entirely. Once it has happened many times — if your union does not spring forth fruit at the first — they will likely be more predictable in their timing, and you will gain maneuverability.

Sungold eyes flicked to the side, considering the question of their contingent. At the center of it, Hotep was forced to accept that he was now unaware how educated his countrymen even were on the matter, and in ignorance lay the greatest of dangers. Of the mazoi as a whole, I cannot say for certain. I would hesitate to speculate beyond my station. Their training belonged to another.

He thought of the hungering looks he had seen Sapair give some fellahin, and the Jodai's resistance to Merneith attending the procession North. Then added, But I would humbly support motions to ensure your entwined authority is well-established — let all know that being guarded in such a way does not make her a possession to contend for, but a power in her own right which demands unquestioned respect.

A brief pause, then he added, If Queen has said nothing to you, then I fear she may be equally unaware, and this should be remedied. If not by me, then surely by her handmaiden.