* * * *
Heh and Ipi were not long gone from the chamber of Nezem-mut when they were called into the presence of the Queen.
Ankhesenamun was thinner than when they had seen her last and not only because she was no longer pregnant. Shadows had come to nest in her eyes and her cheeks were almost gaunt.
She too was seated when they entered bowing. Beside her feet the little lion cub was lying peacefully asleep. As they approached it awoke and, like the cat, showed signs of fear. Growling — it retreated behind the Queen’s skirt, one anxious and wary eye all that showed of it.
She lost no time in accusing them of theft and demanding the return of the Egg of Ra immediately.
“We are no thieves, Majesty,” Heh replied boldly. “We have been chosen by Ra himself to guard the Egg.”
“So?” she said
