Sting of the Scorpion by Carole Wilkinson

Author:Carole Wilkinson [Wilkinson, Carole]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781925081640
Publisher: Walker Books Australia
Published: 2001-08-24T04:00:00+00:00

6

HOMECOMING PRINCE

Keneben’s mouth fell open as he stared in amazement at Ramose. Then he broke into a smile. Ramose couldn’t help himself. He rushed up to his tutor and threw his arms around him.

“My heart rejoices to see you,” he said, unable to prevent tears blurring his vision.

Ramose owed his life to the tutor. It was Keneben who had saved him from the queen’s plot to kill him. His friend had then been banished to a foreign country.

“Are you well, Keneben?”

“Praise Amun, I live, prosper and have health.”

The high priest watched this display of affection with complete surprise.

“This young man claims to be a scribe, taking your place. Is this true?”

“Not exactly, High Priest,” said Keneben.

Ramose’s smile faded.

“I come bearing news that the young scribe is unaware of.” Keneben looked at Ramose, rustling a papyrus he was holding in his hand. “I have just received news from Thebes that will bring sorrow to us all.”

Keneben paused.

“Our pharaoh is gravely ill. It is expected that he will ascend to heaven before the new moon.”

“May Amun grant Pharaoh long life and happiness,” said Ramose.

The high priest muttered similar words. It was what all Egyptians said whenever the pharaoh’s name was mentioned, but no one meant it more sincerely than Ramose. The gods had granted his wish to see his tutor again. He hoped they would answer this prayer as well.

“Though I was about to start work here at Abydos,” continued Keneben, “my services are urgently required at Thebes. Those of the young scribe will be required as well.”

The high priest scowled as if he were disappointed that he couldn’t punish Ramose.

“For this reason, High Priest, I ask your permission that we both return to Thebes as soon as possible.”

“I will arrange for your passage to Thebes.”

“Thank you, High Priest.”

Keneben and Ramose bowed to the high priest and left.

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