Noise of stamping hoofs of strong horses, and rumbling of carriages wheels rode up to the iron gates of the palace which were opened to them, after the leader of the men showed the guards the invitation which had the Pharaoh's seal stamped on it. As the men rode through the gates into the courtyard of the palace, one of the carriages window curtains pulled slightly to the side and a pair of green eyes peeked through it, staring at the enormous courtyard surrounded by huge and smaller buildings with guards everywhere, some riding on horses while others were stationed at a particular place holding spares, with bows and arrows strap at their backs.

Nefertari,'ughliq alsatayir. (Nefertari, close the curtains)

A soft womanly voice murmured when she noticed the young girl looking out of the carriage window. The girl pulled the curtains closed and sat up, fiddling with her fingers.

asif. (Sorry) She whispered, bitting her lower lip and glance at the person behind the voice with a nervous smile. The woman smiled back, knowing why her daughter is feeling extremely anxious. It's the first time she is bringing her to the Heb festival and the first time her daughter will be interacting with young wealthy noblemen of her age or few years older, to get proper acquainted with them.

Nefertari looked up when she felt her mother squeezing her hand gently. la takun easabia, laa yujib ealayk muhawalat 'iitharat 'iiejab 'ayi minhum. sayakunun hum aladhin yasqutun ealaa qidmik. (Don't be nervous, you don't have to try and impress any of them. They'll be the ones falling at your feet)

A blush creep up over her cheeks, knowing her mother's words were true, she got the most offers for her hand in marriage than any other girl in her city. The moment she reached her marriageable age, men trooped in like bees, wanting to make her the Queen in their hive but her father rejected all of their proposals.

She is feeling nervous because her father wants her to get married to a man from a very wealthy and respectable family of his choosing. She just hopes the man isn't older, like her friend Kenia who got married to a man ten years older then her.

She knows it's tradition for young men and women at the marriageable age, to get well acquainted with each other during festivals before starting a courtship. It's said that the girl will choose the man of her liking, then the couple will start courting and get married after some time but in reality, parents greatly influence whom they went as their son or daughter in-law.

Luckily, her parents promised not to pressure her into marriage for now but she knows the moment any young wealthy nobleman of their liking shows interest in her, they won't hesitate. But she's not going to let that ruin her mood to celebrate the festival or make friends she can hang around with.

Soon the carriage turned and came to a halt, then the coachman opened the door and helped the woman to alight, followed by Nefertari who smiled sweetly at him as he held her hand and helped her stepped down from the carriage. As soon as she stepped beside her mother, she felt thousand eyes staring at her. She glanced around and saw that, almost all the guards standing in front of the building were staring at her in daze and with lust in their eyes.

She knows she's beautiful and breathtaking, and wasn't pestered by the attention she is getting. it's something she deals with everyday when she steps out with her mother. It used to make her uncomfortable but now she's getting acclimate to it. She signed inwardly when she felt their eyes lingering on her body as she began walking behind her mother towards the entrance of the building and the moment they got inside, she breathed a sigh of relief that she has gotten away from those hungry eyes.

'ahlaan bik Meretseger. (Welcome, Meretseger) A beautiful woman with a long black hair in her late twenties wearing a long white robe, adorned with gold jewelries walked towards them and quickly they bowed their heads, to show respect.

samuk. (Your highness)

Meretseger whispered teasingly then Nefertari frown at her mother's teasing tone, does she want them killed?

The Queen raised her eyesbrows then motions her hand for the guards and maids to leave them alone.

alrukue walaietidhar limlkatak, 'aw muajahat ghadabiun. (Kneel and apologize to your Queen, or face my wrath) The Queen uttered, raising her tone a little higher.

Nefertari became scared then she heard giggles, and when she raised her head up, she was dumbfounded at the sight that met her eyes. Her mother and the Queen were hugging each other and laughing like long lost best friends.

ya 'ilhy, laqad ashtaqat lik. lm nashhad bedna albaed mundh shuhur. (Oh god, I've missed you. We haven't seen each other in months)

The Queen said excitedly as she released Meretseger from their embrace, with smiles etch on their faces.

lkn ela alaql naktab 'iilaa bedna albaed. (But at least we write to each other)

nem, lakanaha laysat nfs alruwyat waltahaduth 'iilayk shkhsyaan. (Yeah, but it's not the same as seeing and talking to you in person) The Queen pouted.

la tuqaliq, 'ana huna alan waqad waead zujiun bi'anana sanabqaa libaed alwaqt. (Don't worry, I'm here now and my husband promised we'll be staying for a while) Meretseger replied cheerfully.

jayid kws kunt 'ukhtit li'iirsal alhurras likhatfik. (Good cos I was planning on sending the guards to kidnap you)

Meretseger chuckled lightly at the Queen words.

hsnana, 'ana saeid jdana li'ana fireawn lm yatazawaj aimra'at 'ukhraa, mithl matalib aljamarik. (Well I'm very happy that the Pharaoh didn't marry another woman, like customs demands) Meretseger said with a grin and the Queen shrugged.

'ant terfni, 'iidha lma yuetini ma 'urid. ln aetih makanana khassaan dayiqana. (You know me, if he doesn't give me what I want. I won't give him my special tight place)

The Queen winked and pulled her lips into a smirk then they giggled again.

Even though they were talking in low voices, Nefertari can clearly hear them and was surprised her mother never told her, the Queen is a friend of hers. She frowned in confusion when she didn't understand what the Queen meant by "Special tight place"

hal hadhih hy? (Is that her?)

Nefertari heard a loud gasp and snapped from her thoughts to see the Queen and her mother staring at her.

nem fielaan. (Yes) Meretseger said proudly.

The Queen stepped closer in front of Nefertari, astonished by the girl's beauty

yjb 'an tus'al alihatan min fawq 'anfusahum 'iidha kunt wahid minhum, li'ana jimalak hu kharij hdha alealam. (The goddesses from above must be asking themselves if you're one of them, cos your beauty is out of this world)

Nefertari blushed and cast her eyes down.

The Queen cooed la asddq ank altiflat alsaghirat alty raiyatha musabat bidami althadiyi myrtsyghr, walan 'anzur 'iilayk, hadhih alfatat aljamila. (Aww I can't believe you're the little baby I saw busily sucking Meretseger's breast and now look at you, such a beautiful girl)

The Queen engulfed Nefertari in a bear hug then she released her and cooed again when she saw how shy the girl is.

la tukhjil, 'ana mithl 'umuk alththani. 'iin aihtajat 'ayu shay' 'akhbarani. (Don't be shy, I'm like your second mother. If you need anything let me know)

Nefertari nodded, with a shy smile.

hal wajadat shkhsana yastahiquha hataa alan? (Have you find someone worthy of her yet?) The Queen asked, snapping her head towards Meretseger.

la, ma zilna nabhath. (No, we are still looking)

The Queen nodded and turned her gaze back to Nefertari, wishing Rameses Zayn is here. She would have coax him to court Nefertari but she wants her son to marry for love, not someone she persuaded him to get married to.

daeni 'urikum gharfukum hataa tastarihuu. (Let me show you your chambers so you can rest) She murmured with a grin and led the them to their rooms.

The next morning the Queen invited Meretseger and Nefertari to have breakfast with her at the royal dining room. She sent three of the maids to fetch them from their chambers, since they weren't familiar with the place yet. When Nefertari and her mother entered the dining room, the kitchen maids were already setting breakfast on the large dining table, then one of the maid's who led them to the dining room gestured her hand for them to go to the Queen, at the far end of the table.

They walked towards the Queen and bowed their heads slightly, greeting her. The Queen responded with a smile and asked them to sit, next to her at left side of the table then they began eating and talking about the upcoming festival.

Nefertari was quiet during the conversation and only voice out her thoughts when the Queen asks her questions. She realized one thing about the Queen and her mother, whenever they're in public they act accordingly but when they are behind closed doors with no maids or guards around they act differently.

The sound of loud chuckling interrupted their conversation then they averted their gaze to the entrance of the dining room as two young males walked in, bumping each other's shoulders playfully. The Queen cleared her throat loudly and immediately the young men halted their steps and became quite. They cast their eyes towards the Queen and realized she had guests, then quickly they bowed their heads and apologize for their behaviour. The Queen accepted their apologies and told them to sit and have their breakfast.

As they raised their heads up, their eyes met Nefertari's gaze and they stuck in their tracks, charmed by her remarkable beauty.

The Queen had to call their names three times before they snapped out of their daze.

Djehuty Liam w Merenre Louis, hal sataqfan hunak 'aw tandum 'iilayna litanawul al'iiftar? (Djehuty Liam and Merenre Louis, are you two going to just stand there or join us for breakfast?)

Merenre Louis cussed under his breath for not wearing his best clothes and quickly combed his messy hair with his hand, from the front to the back. He displayed a sweet smile on his lips, ready to lure his way into the green eye beauty's heart.

nem smwkm, nahn. (Of course your highness, we'll join for breakfast)

He responded, then walked up to the right side of the table and took a seat directly across Nefertari. He greeted everyone respectfully then shifted his gaze back to her and noticed a faint blush on her cheeks. His smile turned into a smirk, thinking Nefertari is blushing because of him but he soon realized she wasn't actually glancing at him while blushing but rather at Djehuty Liam who is sitting beside him and winking at her playfully.

His smile faded and his face twisted into annoyance then he kicked Djehuty Liam's leg under the table. Djehuty Liam groaned in pain and glared at him.

The Queen cleared her throat warningly for the two to behave, then introduced them to Meretseger and Nefertari.

hadha hu Merenre Louis, al'amir al'aqdam. (This is Merenre Louis, the oldest prince)

She motions her hand to Merenre Louis who's blue eyes were fixed on Nefertari the whole time he was being introduced with a seductive smile etched on his lips, then the Queen introduced Djehuty Liam as the future General of Ramsese Zayn.

Djehuty Liam smiled charmingly after the Queen introduced him and was intrigued who the beautiful girl with green eyes sitting across him is.

Meretseger nodded with a smile after the Queen introducted the young men. She was pleased that the two most powerful young men in Egypt seem interested in her daughter. The Queen also introduced Meretseger as a very good friend of hers and Nefertari as the daughter of Meretseger.

After the introduction, the Queen and Meretseger continued with their conversation while the kitchen maids serve Merener Louis and Djehuty Liam with their breakfast. Nefertari felt the young men eyeing her and peeked at them through her lashes then blushed at the way they were staring at her and hardly touching their food. She won't denied they're very attractive and handsome but she didn't feel the sparks and butterflies her maid Kaaya said she would feel when she meets the one.

She started feeling uncomfortable when their gaze intensified and asked to be excused, the Queen granted her the request, then she stood and hurried off the room. Merenre Louis also asked to be excused and followed her then Djehuty Liam followed suit. They ran after her and Merener Louis yelled out her name.

Nefertari aintazar. (Nefertari wait)

She halted then turned around with a nervous smile and notice the embarrass look on their faces when they caught up with her. Djehuty Liam scratched the back of his neck with a sheepish grin then Merener Louis cleared his throat, and before he could open his mouth to speak, Djehuty Liam beats him to it.

edhrana, laqad shaearna bieadam alairtiah, lm natamakan min musaeadatika. jamaluk mashur lana. (Sorry, we made you feel uncomfortable, we couldn't help it. Your beauty charmed us) He said in an apologetic tone.

la bas, 'ana bikhayr. (It's alright, I'm okay) Nefertari murmured softly.

'ant last ghadib mna? (You're not mad at us?) Merenre Louis asked, trying hard not to check her body out.

ln 'ankar 'anani shaeart bieadam alairtiah, lakunaniy last majnuna. (I won't deny I felt uncomfortable but I'm not mad) Nefertari said, assuring them with a smile and they sighed in relief.

'iidhan 'iilaa 'ayn 'ant dhahb? hal 'arafqk? (So where are you going? May I escort you?") Merener Louis asked.

nem, sanurafiquk 'aynama kunt turid 'an tadhhab waturikum hawl alqasr. (Yes, we'll accompany you wherever you want to go and show you around the palace) Djehuty Liam added with a soft smile then Merener Louis eyed him with frown but quickly covered it up with a smile.

Nefertari sighed softly, she really wants to familiarize herself with the palace but she's feeling uncomfortable exploring too soon after her arrival without her mother.

ana asif, la 'astatie la bd li min 'iiblagh waldatiyi awla. (I'm sorry, I can't. I have to inform my mother first)

Merener Louis summoned one of the guards standing in the hallway with a gesture of his hand, then the guard strode towards them and bowed his head slightly.

'ablugh almalikat wadifaha 'anana naakhudh Nefertari li'iizhariha hawl alqasr. (Inform the Queen and her guest that we're taking Nefertari out to show her around the palace)

The guard nodded and hurried off towards the royal dining room.

taraa, halu almushkila. (See, problem solved)

Merener Louis said with a grin and Nefertari's smile broadened until her dimples appeared. They stare dreamily at her again, admiring her perfect smile until her voice snapped them out of their daze.

hsnana, 'iilaa 'ayn nadhhab awlaan? (Okay, so where do we go first?)

They exchanged looks then shifted their gaze back to her.

'iilaa almaebad. (To the temple)

They said in unison and Nefertari nodded, then they began walking side by side her, with Merenre Louis at her right side and Djehuty Liam at her left side. They asked her questions about herself and made jokes that made her laugh to ease her from her nervousness.

That's how their friendship began, from that day they became inseparatable going everywhere without each other. Well, it was more of them following Nefertria around like little puppies, from morning till the evening as if she has their favorite doggy meat in her possession. Nefertari quickly became close to them, especially with Merenre Louis because she sees him as a big brother.

As the days went by, everyone in the palace notice the looks Merener Louis and Djehuty Liam were giving her. There was no doubt that they were both in love with Nefertari but for some reason neither one of them voiced out their feelings to her. Nobody understood why the two couldn't just muster up courage and simply tell her since she's obviously clueless.

But unknown to them, Merener Louis had discussed the matter with Djehuty Liam privately, when he realized they're both in love with Nefertari. He suggested they shouldn't confess their feelings to her yet since it could freak her out and also put a strain on their friendship. Djehuty Liam agreed and they both made a deal to slowly work their way into her heart individually and see whom she starts having feelings for.

Nefertari's father arrived at the palace two weeks after his family and was unhappy when he heard the news that Merener Louis and Djehuty Liam were following his daughter around and either one of them have proposed to her yet. He had wanted to speak privately to them one on one, and ask them about their intentions with his daughter but he kicked against the idea after thinking it through. He didn't want to seen desperate and also didn't want to make the young men think he's trying to hook his daughter up with one of them because of the positions they hold in the kingdom so he drew back, keeping a close eye on them and let the chips fall where they may.

The official start of the festival began the following day with every citizen going to the courtyard of the temple to offer their offerings to the gods, thank them and request favours from them. They also thank the gods for the continue rule of the Pharaoh. In the evening after the religious rituals, the celebrations continued within the courtyard of the palace as male musicians play music using drums, harps and lutes while people dance away at every corner. Young males and females gathered around in small groups to get acquainted with each other, while some seem to have already chosen their beloveds, others were taking it slow.

Nefertari arrived at function with Merener Louis and Djehuty Liam in high hopes that she will meet the one. She rubbed her palms together nervously and took a deep breathe as her eyes darted around the crowd, then turned around facing the two males standing behind her with a nervous look.

'ana mutawatir lilghayat, madha law kan alrajul aldhy 'ahabah, la yaejibni 'aw 'anah muhtamun bishakhs akhar. (I'm so nervous, what if the guy I get to like, doesn't like me back or is interested in someone else)

The idea flashed through her mind, leaving a frown on her face.

They both eyed her from the head to her feet then back to her face absorbing in her beauty, then Djehuty Liam grimace with are you kidding me look.

iidha kunt tastatie 'an taraa faqat eadad alrijal aldhyn yanzurun 'iilayk alan, ma kunt ltqwl dhlk. (If you could only see the number men looking at you right now, you wouldn't have said that)

He whispered, his face void of emotions.

Nefertari sighed softly hadha hu alshay', 'urid shakhs yuhibu w yaeshaqani lays bsbb nuzurat jasdiat bal li'anah yuhibu w naqdir li kashakhs. (That's the thing, I want someone who will love and adore me not because of my physical looks but because he loves and appreciate me as a person)

stajid lah, min yadri 'anah qad yakun 'aqrab thuma tafkur. (You'll find him, who knows he might be closer then you think) Merener Louis uttered with a playful smile.

'ana amal dhlk. (I hope so) She murmured with a hopeful look and emitted a long breath.

hsnaan tudhkar 'ana tukhbirani eindama tajid shkhsaan yahimk, la tukhfi eaniy, li'ana sadiyqak wa'ukhtik yatliban maerifatan man takun 'akhwati fi almustaqbal. (Okay so remember to let me know when you find someone you're interest in, don't hide them from me, as your friend and your sister I demand to know who my future sisters In-laws are.)

Merenre Louis cleared his throat loudly to diffuse the sudden awkwardness Nefertari has unknowingly created.

hasananaan, ajruu alan, la tubqih yantazir. (Ookay, run along now, don't keep him waiting) He smiled and shoo her away.

tamanaa li alhazi. (Wish me luck) She said with a light giggle and they wished her luck. She beam with smiles, walking away and stopped in a distance then waved at them before finally striding away. Djehuty Liam sighed loudly, watching her as she takes steps away from them, away from his breaking heart that is in agonizing pain as if someone is literally ripping it right out of his chest.

ana ghyr qadir ealaa aitikhadh dhlk baed alan. (I can't take it anymore) He whispered sadly.

daeuna naraa kayf yaleab allayl awla. (Let's see how the night plays out first) Merener Louis muttered calmly and patted his shoulder, then moved into the crowd to mingle with the others, while Djehuty Liam stood rooted in the spot staring at Nefertari.

When Nefertari walked up to the first group, the females groaned inwardly with frowns on their faces. It is no news that most of the girls were envious and jealous of Nefertari's beauty, it was even speculated that she is going to be flock over by the males. They pursed their lips thinking the males were going to ignore them and completely focus on her but to their surprise the males quickly excused themselves and left when she joined them.

Nefertari didn't read meaning into it and spoke with the girls for few minutes before moving on to join another group and the same thing happened. When she made an attempt to join the third group, all the males avoided her like a plague and she became confused. She tried again and again with other groups but the same thing occurred.

Everyone was shocked and surprised of what was happening, even her parents who were watching in a distance were equally astonished. While some were wondering what is going on, the girls were happy and pleased that she wasn't getting all the attention like they presumed.

Djehuty Liam noticed the situation and instantly knew something wasn't right. He could see that every young male had their eyes on Nefertari and he could even read their body language that they were itching and yearning to get close and talk to her. So why are they all steering clear away from her as if she is something unpleasant.

He darted his eyes around and spotted Merener Louis leaning against one of the pillers at the far end to his right, holding a cup of wine in his hand and smirking as he watches Nefertari dilemma then instantly everything made sense. He averted his eyes back to Nefertari and got angry when he saw her walking up to her parents, struggling to hold back her tears.

He strode towards Merener Louis, gritting his teeth, ready to confront him.

madha faelt? (What did you do?) He whispered yelled when he got close to him.

Merener Louis glanced at him sideways then rolled his eyes with a smirk, lifting the cup of wine to his lips and gulping it down.

'arsalat alhurras litahdhir sraan kl dhakar yahdur almahrajan bieadam alaiqtirab min nfrtary 'aw altahaduth 'iilayh. (I sent the guards to secretly warn every male attending the festival not to get close to Nefertari or talk to her) He answered.

hal taerafin al'iihraj wal'alam aldhy sababath laha? (Do you know the embarrassment and the pain you have caused her?)

satakun bikhayr 'ana 'ahmiha. (She'll be alright. I'm protecting her)

bijaeliha tabki? hal hdha ma tasmih alhamayata? (By making her cry? Is that what you call protection?) Djehuty Liam whispered in silent fury.

wamadha bihaqi aljahim aldhy tahmiha minh? (And what the hell are you protecting her from?)

Merener Louis eyed him with amuse smile as if he knows a big secret that Djehuty Liam doesn't know and sighed softly.

anzuri 'iilaa ank taetaqilin min 'aesabi, hdha aljarui alhabu aldhy tahtajinah li'iiqaf Nefertari 'anaa la 'uhibu altariqat alty tastahwidh ealaa mumtalakatiin. (Look you're getting on my nerves, this puppy love you have for Nefertari needs to stop. I don't like the way you're possessing over my property)

Nefertari lays mulakak. (Nefertari is not your property!) Djehuty Liam snapped, inching closer to him and trying hard to keep his voice low.

laha alhaqu fy aikhtiar min turidih fi 'ayi waqt, swa' kanat ladayna mashaeir tujahaha 'am la. la yumkinuk 'iijbaruha ealaa 'ahbak. (She has the right to choose whom ever she wants to court, whether we have feelings for her or not. You can't force her to love you.)

hsnaan sayiyat lilghayat, laqad qumt bitamyiziha balfel ealaa 'anaha milkiun fi alyawm aldhy ra'ayatha fih, lidha tarajue. alsabab alwahid aldhy yajealni 'ahjam ean 'iikhbariha bimushaeiri hu 'anani yjb 'an 'ablugh alfireawn awlaan. (Well too bad cos I've already marked her as mine the day I saw her, so back off. The only reason I'm reluctant telling her my feelings is because I have to inform the Pharaoh first)

Merener Louis words pierced through his heart when he realised he has been fooled. He knows its a custom for princes to inform the Pharaoh first if they're interested in a girl before they can openly propose to her. Even if the girl doesn't like the prince, she'll have no choice but to marry him if the Pharaoh sees her fit and worthy.

ealimat 'anana eaqidna safqatan. (I taught we made a deal) Djehuty Liam said through his gritted teeth and Merener Louis snorted a laugh without saying anything.

kl hdha baynama jaealatani 'aetaqid 'anana kunaa nufakir fi mashaeir Nefertari's bishan, khawfiha eindama tuktashaf 'ana sadiqatiha, wal'ashkhas aladhin taetabiruhum 'akhwat ladayhim mashaeir rwmansyt balnsbt laha. (All this while you made me think we were considering Nefertari's feelings, about her freaking out when she finds out that her friends, the people she considers as brothers have romantic feelings for her)

He whispered yelled, anger boiling up inside him at Merener Louis betrayal.

Merener Louis sip his wine and rolled his eyes. balnsbt limustaqbal eamin lihadhih almamlakat, fa'ant ghabiatan hqana fi alaietiqad bi'anani sa'atrak knzana mithl Nefertari yanzaliq bayn 'asabaei bsbb aitifaq alssadat al'aghbia'.(For a future General of this kingdom, you're really dumb to think I'll let a treasure like Nefertari slip through my fingers because of a stupid gentlemen's agreement)

Djehuty Liam stared at him with an unbelievable expression, looking at him as if he's the devil himself. kan Rameses Zayn ealaa huq. 'ant thueban. (Rameses Zayn was right. You are a snake) He hissed.

aleadat la tamnae al'amir min 'iikhbar alfatat 'anah yahibuha, fahi tanusu faqat ealaa 'anah la yastatie 'an yaqtarih eulaniatan ealaa alfatat mithl aldhukur alakharin dun eilm alfireawn li'anah yataeayan ealayh taqyimuha awlaan. (The custom doesn't prevent a prince form telling a girl that he likes her, it only states that he can't openly propose to the girl like other males without the knowledge of the Pharaoh because he has to assess her first)

ant taelam jydana 'an Nefertari lan tuqbal aiqtirahik abdana , lidha bdlaan min dhlk turid fkhh biastikhdam sultat alfireawn li'iijbariha ealaa alzawaj mink. (You know perfectly well Nefertari will never accept your proposal, so instead you want to trap her by using the Pharaoh's authority to force her to marry you)

'ant taerif 'anaha satakhtaruni 'iidha wadaena 'awraqana ealaa tawilatiha. (You know she will choose me if we should put our cards on her table)

Merener Louis rolled his eyes.

'ayaan kan, 'ana 'amir hadhih almamlakat walays ladayk fursat didi. 'ana 'uhdhiruk ya dajwti liam, aibtaead ean Nefertari.(Whatever, I'm a prince of this kingdom and you have no chance against me. I'm warning you Djehuty Liam, stay away from Nefertari)

Merener Louis murmured in a serious tone and gaze at Djehuty Liam, who stared right back at him, head high, with a challenging look. Merener Louis lips twisted in a mocking grin and walked away.

Djehuty Liam clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white as he stare at Merener Louis's retreating figure. His chest heaved as he squeezed his eyes shut. He was on the verge of exploding and the urge to pull Merener Louis back and beat the hell out of him is so strong that he had to leave. When he got to his chamber, he trashed everything he could get his hands on. He has never felt so much pain in his life. After he has took out his anger and frustration, he plopped down on his bed and shut his eyes, calming himself.

Merener Louis is right he has no chance against a prince of this kingdom. Nefertari will never be his.

After few days, Nefertari noticed Djehuty Liam has been avoiding her and shunning their friendly outting, especially during the festival celebrations in the evenings. Whenever she asks Merener Louis where Djehuty Liam is, he will just shrugged and tell her to stop worrying about him, since it's obvious he doesn't want to hang out with them anymore. But Nefertari wasn't convinced so with the help of the Queen, she was able to corner Djehuty Liam and ask him why he has been avoiding her and Merener Louis.

Seeing Nefertari again made Djehuty Liam realise how much he misses her, and the moment he saw those green eyes full of worry and concern, he felt like an asshole. The whole reason he's avoiding her is because of Merener Louis warnings. He cussed himself inwardly for letting his feelings slave his mind, knowing Nefertari is not to be blamed for what's happening and avoiding her only worsen the situation. He couldn't even look at her as she waits for an answer.

Nefertari took his right hand and squeezed it gently, urging him on to tell her what's wrong with him. That gesture made him look up at her, he knew he has to be honest with her even though the truth is painful, but he just couldn't do it, so instead he lied and told her he's going through personal problems and needed few days to sort himself out but promised to start hanging out with them soon. Nefertari removed her golden bracelet from her wrist and slipped it onto his wrist and told him to always wear as a sign of their everlasting friendship. She also told him that she'll always be there whenever he's ready to talk.

This made Djehuty Liam's heart flutter and right there, he promised himself that even though he can't have her, he'll always be there for her as a supportive friend and will find a way to stop Merener Louis plans.

The following day, he decided to join Nefertari and Merener Louis at their favorite hangout spot. When Merener Louis saw him, he pursed his lips into a thin line, glaring at him while Nefertari ran to him and hugged him, feeling excited but the happiness didn't last long as all hell broke loose when Merener Louis noticed him wearing Nefertari's golden bracelet. He became angry and started arguing with Djehuty Liam. Before anyone could realized what was going on, they were on the ground throwing punches at each other while Nefertari began crying and screaming for the guards.

Several of the guards heard her screams and quickly came to her aid and intervene. Blood was oozing from Merener Louis busted lip while Djehuty Liam's face was slightly swollen after they got separated. The Queen was informed about the situation and she became so angry that she bound them to their chambers for three days as their punishment.

During those three days Nefertari felt guilty and blamed herself for the fight. She felt she caused Merener Louis to get jealous because of the bracelet she gave to Djehuty Liam. So she pleaded with her father to instruct the craftmen to make the exact replica of her bracelet so she can give it to Merener Louis when their punishment ends. After the three days, the boys came down to have breakfast with them again at the royal dining room, Djehuty Liam was the first person to enter with a sheepish smile while Merener Louis stamped into the dining room few minutes later with a scowl on his face, as if he has been punished for doing nothing wrong, but somehow the scowl on his face disappeared when he saw Nefertari.

Nefertari signed relived that their injuries weren't serious like she had thought and signalled to them with her eyes that she wants to talk to them after breakfast. They met at their usual spot after breakfast, and Nefertari made them swear to the gods and on their lives to never fight again. They hesitated at first because they know one way or another they'll, but when they stare into those sad green eyes the words slips out from their mouths before their brains could register.

Nefertari smiled then threw her arms around their necks, hugging them and told them how much she loves them as brothers and how upset she was when they fought and how glad she is that they've reconcile, then she gave Merener Louis the exact same replica of her bracelet. Disappointment flashed through Merener Louis eyes when Nefertari gave him the bracelet because he thought it meant something more, that was why he fought with Djehuty Liam.

From that day onwards, Merener Louis and Djehuty Liam acted civil around each other, faking jokes and pretending to have moved on from the fight when Nefertari is around but that doesn't stop them from glaring at each other whenever she's not looking and the moment she retires to bed, they avoided each other and pretend the other person doesn't exist until the next morning when they have to hangout again with her.

A week before the festival will come to end, they managed to persuade Nefertari to go with them to the royal stables after she told them, she has a fear of riding horses and has never ridden a horse in her life. They were both surprised and try to hold in their laughter at her whining when they entered the stables. Merener Louis dismissed the stablemen and got his horse from its stall then tried to get Nefertari to sit on it, but she became frighten and hid behind Djehuty Liam, using him as a shield.

la 'astatie 'an 'usadiq 'anak takhaf min alkhuyul. (I can't believe you are afraid of horses) Merener Louis chuckled softly.

la eajib 'anak daymana ma taqadam edhrana tadaei 'anak mutaeab watahrib 'iilaa gharfatik fi kl marat 'aqtarih fiha rukub alkhayl. (No wonder you're always making excuses claiming you're tired and ran off to your room every time I suggest we go for horse riding)

Nefertari peeked behind Djehuty Liam and whines aeadatuh. (Put him back)

Merener Louis rolls his eyes, still chuckling and led the horse back to its stall then made sure the bar securing the gate is properly locked. When Nefertari saw that the horse is finally in it's stall, she came out of her hiding place and narrowed her eyes at Merener Louis.

lm 'aqul qat 'iinani khayif min alkhuyul, qult faqat 'iinani khayif min rkubha. 'ana last khayifaan min alaiqtirab minhum lilhayawanat al'alyfat 'aw 'iiteamuhim. (I never said I am afraid of horses, I just said I'm scared of riding them. I'm not scared of going close to them to pet or feed them)

Ya. (Oh) Djehuty Liam murmured and Nefertari glare at him when she realized he was trying his hardest to keep a straight face and not laugh out loud.

alkhuyul khatirat jdana, khastan eindama la yaejabuk. sawf yantazirun bisabar hataa tatasalaq ealaa zuhurihim waeindama tabda alrakub, sawf yarmik. (Horses are very dangerous, especially when they don't like you. They'll patiently wait till you climb on their back and when you start riding them, they'll throw you off)

Her remarked made the boys burst out laughing. Nefertari glare at them as they continue laughing loudly and uncontrollably.

mahlaan tawaquf ean aldahk, 'ana jadun. (Hey stop laughing, I'm serious) She pouted and folded her arms on her chest.

laysat alkhuyul bhdha alkhuturat wala tatakhlas min alnaas li'anaha la tuhibuhum. (Horses are not that dangerous and they don't throw people off because they don't like them) Djehuty Liam said between his laughter.

aintazar hataa taqabul hsanana la yuejibuk. (Wait till you meet a horse that doesn't like you) She flipped her hair and turn on her heel, walking away but the boys quickly ran in front, blocking her path.

nahn asifun, hayaa 'anaha muzha. (We are sorry, come on it's a joke)

Merener Louis murmured playfully, trying hard to keep his face void of laughter as Nefertari narrowed her eyes at them again.

limadha 'ant khayif min rukub alkhayl ealaa 'ay hal? (Why are you scared of riding horses anyway?) Djehuty Liam asked with a note of laughter in his voice.

eindama kunt 'asghar sana shahadat rakibaan 'ulqiat biquat ealaa al'ard min qibal hisanih wakasr saqih. (When I was younger I witnessed a rider been thrown heavily to the ground by his horse and he broke his leg) Nefertari answered.

hadha hw? (That's it?) Merener Louis asked, a hint of laughter returning to his voice.

nem fielaan. (Yes) Nefertari answered and they brust into laughter again.

ya rifaq fazie. (You guys are horrible) She pouted with a slight frown.

'ant khayif min rukub alkhayl walakunk tasheur bialrrahat mae alearabat alty taquduha alkhuyul, wahadhaan 'amr sakhif. (You're afraid of riding horses yet you're comfortable with carriages driven by horses, that's absurd) Merener Louis said.

'aetaqid alkhuyul mithl almudaribin. (I guess horses like coachmen) Djehuty Liam murmured and sent another bout of laughter around the stable.

Nefertari huffed and rolled her eyes then just as she is about to walk pass them, a loud neigh coming from one of the stalls behind stopped her on her tracks. She turned around, looking at the stall where the noise is coming from.

man hu hdha alhasan? (Who's horse is that?) She asked with a curious tone.

hadha hu alzilu, hisan Rameses Zayn. (That's Shadow, Rameses Zayn's horse) Djehuty Liam answered.

For some reason Nefertari became intrigued to see the horse which belongs to the crown prince. hal ymkn 'an araha? (Can I see it?)

The boys raised their eyebows, at her request.

Ia. (No) Merener Louis declined, with a hint of seriousness in his voice.

hadha alfahl lm yatima tarwiduh balkaml. kad 'an yusib alsabiu almustaqiru eindama kan yuhawil altahayaa lah. (That stallion is not fully tamed. It nearly injured the stable boy when he was trying to groom it)

'ana faqat 'urid ruyatah. (I just want to see it) Nefertari replied and before they could say anything, she began walking towards the stall. They ran after her, trying to stop her. But she kept on walking, and ignoring their warnings till she got in front of the stall and saw the black stallion belonging to the crown prince.

Nefertari la taqtarib minh. (Nefertari don't get too close to it.) Djehuty Liam warned and she nodded absentmindedly, eyeing the horse skeptically.

hu wasim. (He's beautiful) She whispered then the horse lifted its head and nicker, staring at her for a minute, before it stepped forward and edged it's head out, closer to her and let out a light nicker again.

iinah la yabdu khatiraan. (He doesn't seem dangerous) Nefertari said, shifting her gaze to them then back to the horse again

They boys looked on with astonished looks as Nefertari rubbed the horse muzzle gently as it's neigh happily as if it is greeting her.

Nefertari smiled ah 'ant mthl kty. (Aww you're such a cutie)

kayf faealt dhilka? (How did you do that?) Merener Louis asked, surprised at the scene in front of him.

la yujad 'ayu shakhs yulamis hdha alhisan min dunih yueti mwqfana biaistithna' Rameses Zayn. (No body touches that horse like that without him giving an attitude except Rameses Zayn)

'aetaqid 'anah yuhibu li. (I think he likes me) Her smile broadened, without looking at them but the horse.

'aw hu maftun bijamalik. (Or he's captivated by your beauty) Djehuty Liam added with a light chuckle then they heard the sound of a loud trumpet blowing.

ma hdha? (What's that?) Nefertari asked, looking at them.

ead alfireawn. (The Pharaoh is back) Merener Louis smirked, giving Djehuty Liam a knowing look.

mimma yaeni 'ana Rameses Zayn ead kdhlk, la bd li min aldhahab. (Which means Rameses Zayn is back as well, I have to go) Djehuty Liam gave Nefertari a small smile and quickly left the stables.

'ana saeid bieawdat Rameses Zayn, wayatahadath Djehuty Liam daymana ean kayf yaftaqiduh. (I'm glad Rameses Zayn is back, Djehuty Liam always talks about how he misses him)

Nefertari whispered watching Djehuty Liam retreating figure and shifted her eyes back to Merener Louis.

ala satuqabil alfireawn wa'akhik? (Aren't you going to meet the Pharaoh and your brother?)

lays alan, sa'akun balkad lahazt 'ana Rameses Zayn mawjud. (Not now, I will be barely notice if Rameses Zayn is there) He replied with coldness in his voice.

yumkinuk 'an tafeal li maerufaan walays alaiqtirab minh. (Can you do me a favor and not get close to him) He mumbled, looking at Nefertari with a serious look.

limadha a. (Why?) Nefertari asked.

iinah waqah jiddaan, mutaeajrif, 'anani walays hataa wasim. (He is very rude, arrogant, selfish and he's not even handsome)

The horse snorted, and Nefertari frown. walakun hdha lays ma samiet. (But that's not what I heard)

Merener Louis sighed 'ana shaqiqih wa'ana 'aerifuh 'afdal min 'ayi shakhs akhir. 'iinah mutazahir, ybdw wdwdana wmhtrmana, lakanah khatir wakasr alkthyr min qulub alfatiat baed aistikhdamih.
(I am his brother and I know him better than any one else. He is a pretender, he looks friendly, respectful but he's dangerous and has broken a lot of girls hearts after using them)

la 'uriduk 'an tasqut dahiatan lisahrih almazif. (I don't want you to fall a victim to his fake charms)

Nefertari nodded, with worried look.
hasananaan. (Okay)

taeal, aismah li bimurafaqatik 'iilaa gharfatik walrrahat, sayakun hunak alkthyr min al'anshitat allayla. (Come, let me escort you back to your room and rest, there'll be a lot of activities tonight)

Nefertari whispered goodbye to the horse and promised to see him again then followed Merener Louis out of the stables.

Djehuty Liam ran through the crowd, maneuvering his way through the soldiers in the hallway towards the throne room where he taught Rameses Zayn would be but when he got there, he only saw the Pharaoh and the Queen sitting on their thrones with few of the elders standing behind them as soldiers hail the Pharaoh for leading them to victory. His eyes roam around the room but he couldn't spot Rameses Zayn. He asked one of the soldiers where the crown prince is, and the soldier informed him Rameses Zayn has retire to his chamber.

He quickly strode to the crown Prince's chamber and when he entered, Rameses Zayn had just come out of the bathroom with a bath towel wrapped around his waist, standing beside his bed with wet hair. He hollered and Rameses Zayn rolled his eyes with a chuckle then he run towards him and gave him a quick brotherly hug.

laqad ashtaqat lak, 'ahlaan bikum mn jadid. (I've missed you, welcome back)

Djehuty Liam uttered as they released each other and Rameses Zayn patted his shoulder playfully.

nem 'ana 'aydaan. (Yeah me too) He smiled.

'uqsim, sa'adhhab maeak fi almarat alqadima. (I swear, I'm going with you next time)

adeu ln yakun hunak fi almarat alqadimati. 'ana saeid li'anahum qabiluu alhazimat mubakiraan. (I pray there won't be a next time. I'm just glad they accepted defeat early) Rameses Zayn sighed and sat on the bed.

nem 'iinaa asif 'anaha mjrd 'ukrih 'an 'akun huna bidunik. kan Merener Louis rayeana mundh albidaya ... (Yeah, I'm sorry it's just I hate being in here without you. Merener Louis was cool from the beginning....)

hataa ja' Nefertari wa'azhar 'alwanuh alhaqiqia? (Until Nefertari came along and he showed his true colors?) Rameses Zayn added, with an amusement laced in his voice.

Djehuty Liam stare at Rameses Zayn with a raised eyebrow.

kayf earafata? laqad wasalt lltw. (How did you know? You just arrived)

bimjrd tanahiy ean hisani, 'awal ma qil li hu 'ana aljiniral wa'akhi yuqatilan, mjrd fata. (As soon as I stepped down from my horse, the first thing I was told is my General and my brother fighting over, just a girl)

Nefertari laysat mjrd 'ayi fata. 'anaha mithl malak bila 'ajnihat wakhasa. sawf tafahum bimujrid mqabltha. 'ana la 'abaligh. (Nefertari is not just any girl. She is like an angel without wings and special. You'll understand once you meet her. I'm not exaggerating)

hal hqa? (Really?) Rameses Zayn gave him a doubtful look.

nem, 'iinaha kharij aljamal, 'iinaha mudhikat wamarhatu. 'anaha liynat mithl jald altifl, raqiq walatif bitariqatiha alkhasa. (Yeah, she is beyond beauty, she's funny and playful. She's as soft as a baby's skin, tender and gentle in her own way.)

ladayha hadhih alshakhsiat almaghriat alty tastamidu alkhayr min alakharina. hataa al'ashya' alsaghirat alty taqum biha latifat walatifat bitariqat maghriat lays ladayha 'ayu fikrat eanha. (She has this alluring personality which draw goodness out of others. Even the little things she does is gentle and luring in a seductive way which she has no idea about)

fi 'ihda almarrat, 'asbahat 'ana Merener Louis saebatan lilghayat bimushahadat ghinayiha , kan al'amr mhbtana lilghaya. (One time, Merener Louis and I became hard just by watching her sing, it was so frustrating.) Djehuty Liam sighs and Rameses Zayn burst into laughter.

allahumu 'anaha lays ladayha fakaratan? (Oh god and she had no idea?) He mumbled between his laughter.

kalaa, bara'ataha maghriat hqana. 'iinaha mithl hadhih altifahat alhamra' alty lm yumisha ahd ealaa shajarat, tatadalaa 'amamia, lkn la yumkinuni natfihaan watadhawuqaha. (Nope, her innocence is really tempting. She's like this red juicy untouched apple on a tree, dangling in front of me, but I can't pluck and have a taste of it.)

limadha hu bsbb 'akhy? (Why, is it because of my brother?) Rameses Zayn asked.

la, li'anaha taraa 'ana w Merener Louis ka'iikhwat fqta. la shay' akhar. (No it's because she only sees Merener Louis and I as brothers. Nothing more.)

Rameses Zayn let out another loud chuckle. hadha tamtas. (That's sucks.)

hal hadha hu alsabab fi 'an 'ayaan minkum qad aiqtarah ealaa almahkamat laha hataa alan? (Is that why neither of you have propose to court her yet?)

Djehuty Liam shook his head and explained everything that had happened for the past couple of weeks to him, why Merener Louis and him fought and how his brother is planning on forcing Nefertari to marry him.

Rameses Zayn looked surprise after Djehuty Liam finished talking and frowned.

iinah jaban kama hu alhalu dayima. sa'araa ma yumkinuni faealah lilmusaeada. (He's a coward like always. I will see what I can do to help)

Djehuty Liam nodded with a grateful smile. hal taetaqid 'anani yjb 'an 'utabieaha maratan 'ukhraa. (Do you think I should pursue her all over again?)

la 'aerif, qad yakun min alsaeb ealayha naql mashaeiraha al'akhawiat 'iilaa shueur rumansi. (I don't know, it might be difficult for her to transit her brotherly feelings to a romantic feeling) Rameses Zayn answered.

Djehuty Liam exhale loudly.

jarabat kula shay' walikuniy lm 'astatie 'an 'ajealaha tarani bihadhih altariqa. (I tried everything but I couldn't make her see me that way)

Rameses Zayn shook his head in disagreement.

lm tuhawil 'akthar min dhlk, kunt khayfana min taeqid sadaqatik maeaha, fbdlaan min dhlk kunt taleabuha baman ean tariq altabatu, ealaa 'amal 'an tastamira. yjb 'an takun qad tulit alsaytarat, walrajul, walmukhatarat biha. (You didn't try harder, you were scared of complicating your friendship with her, so instead you played it safe by taking it slow hoping she will catch on. You should have taken control, man up and risk it)

anaha laysat bihadhih albasata. (It's not that simple.) Djehuty Liam replied.

Rameses Zayn scoffed.

hsnana, madha kunt satafeal, 'iidha kunt fi hidhayiyin mundh bdet 'asabie? (Okay, what will you have done, if you were in my shoes few weeks ago?)

Rameses Zayn raised his eyesbrows and smirk.

bbsatt, sa'uzrae bdhwrana saghirat fi eaqliha satajealuha tufakir bi hataa eindama la 'akun mwjwdana. (Simple, I'll plant tiny seeds in her mind that will get her thinking about me even when I'm not around)

sa'uhawil tukhiluha eaniy jnsyaan walan taerif hataa min 'ayn tati al'afkar walakunaha satakun eajizat ean maneiha. (I'll have her sexually fantasizing about me and she won't even know where the thoughts are coming from but she'll be powerless to stop them.)

sawf 'ata'akad min 'anaha sawf tasil 'iilaa nuqtat hayth mjrd dhakar aismi sayursil alraeshat 'asfal eumudaha alfiqria wayakun sarawiluha mublila. (I'll make sure it will get to a point where the mere mention of my name will send shivers down her spine and have her panties soaking wet.)

bhlwl alwaqt aldhy 'ataharak fih, lm 'akun mdtrana hataa 'iilaa alqiam balkthyr min alhadith hayth 'iinaha satakun jayieatan balfel min 'ajli.. (By the time I make my move, I don't even have to do a lot of talking cos she'll be already starved for me.)

Djehuty Liam stared at him with impressive look and groaned loudly.

alan hadhih hi kalimat alhikmat alati kunt bihajat lisamaeiha qabl 'asabie qalila. ya alhi 'iidha kunt huna nfrtary kan li. (Now these are the words of wisdom I needed to hear few weeks ago. Gosh If you were here Nefertari would have been mine)

walakun alan baed fuaat al'awan. (But now it's too late) He murmured in a sad tone and Rameses Zayn gave him a small smile.

hal satati 'iilaa aleid allayla? (Will she be coming to the feast tonight ?) He asked, with a curious tone.

nem 'azunu dhlk. (Yeah, I think so) Djehuty Liam replied.

jayid kws, 'ana fdwly haqanaan 'an 'aerifuha 'akthar min 'ayi waqt madaa. (Good cos, I'm really curious to know her more than ever)

**************************************

Forgive me for my lateness.

Sorry if the chapter is slow.

I will post the second chapter in few hours. I'm still translating it.

I went to say a very big thank you to everyone who wished me on my birthday. I'm really touched by your messages. God bless you all.

Thoughts on the chapter.

Thoughts on Nefertari

Thoughts on Djehuty Liam

Thoughts on Merener Louis

Thoughts on Rameses Zayn.

Thoughts on other characters.

Thank you for reading.😚