Lion Head Mesa dying for pie

Toula had dreams of her own Queendom. how might she make Akashingo a better place, she wondered, past prayer and her own love for beauty? the latter, during mourning, was not so important to her—let those coming and going know and understand the breadth of their loss. but soon, they would celebrate the new Pharaoh—and herself, too, it seemed! Queen to be! 
the then princess had designs to make Akashingo better in the ways that she could; she would sit for hours to listen to the people, and the things they might wish for. this in itself was a new thing—but she wanted to hear her people!  
and in these hours, Senmut came to her. she was swift to grant him entry, and soon he and another came to her. she herself remained seated, despite the compulsion to rise and rush to greet her much adored Hem. still, her smile and bearing were warm and welcoming. as she listened to him, she brightened, eyes turning to the one he had brought with him. 
a gift! oh! Toula did her utmost to remain still and composed, thinking of her father, of her mother—of Makono. she lifted her chin in open invitation to bring the gift nearer, asking merrily, for me? and who is this that you have brought with you, Hem! her delight was apparent, voice rich with it.