Lion Head Mesa not the same without you here [wp]

ramesses knew she was not accomplished at courtfare; she gave much away. in one fell swoop she revealed that ruenna had stepped down, which pharaoh was pleased to take as implication his marriage too was in the same way. furthermore, her own husband was gone, and it seemed far away.
at what did the roman dog play?
ramesses studied her expressions, the play of them upon her exquisite face. "what did you make of our festivities, matrona?" he inquired. "i am pleased that lady qiao was able to help you in your hour of need. what she has brought to the palace has been invaluable."
he continued to walk. "are you familiar with our physician, tavina?"