“Think you so, O Star? Where, then, is that faith you promised, without which I can do nothing? Nay, I tell no more. Do my bidding, or let me go, and deal with Abi as it pleases you. Choose now, he draws near,” and as she spoke the words they heard the bronze gates of the temple clash upon their hinges.
Tua shivered at the sound, then sprang from the couch, and drew herself to her full height, exclaiming:
“For my part I have chosen. Never shall it be said that Pharaoh’s daughter was a coward. Better the breast of Osiris than the arms of Abi, or slow death in a dungeon. In Amen and in thee, O Double, I put my trust.”
The Shadow looked from her to Asti, who answered briefly:
“Where my Lady goes there I follow, knowing that Mermes always waits. What shall we do?”
The Ka motioned to them to stand together in the narrow winding-place, and this they did, their arms about each other. Next she lifted her sceptre and spoke some word.
Then fire flashed before their eyes, a rush of wind beat upon their brows, and they knew no more.