Two Eyes Cenote sixty-fifth

the laughter of guests went on. senmut did not want to be alone, not until he must; he drew a breath. "will you drink with me to the health of pharaoh and her consort?" the erpa-ha asked, trying to keep the hopeful note from a voice which he had only just steadied.

on everyone; the corners of his eyes tightened in recognition and he turned away before he wept again.

why was this so difficult? he had asked nazli here for the ceremonies; he had never expected to stay. his place was akashingo. and hers — why should it be that the palace always followed her? 

a rest, too, for her. from them. from him. 

wine, placed. a servant disappeared as soon as they had come. senmut wanted the burn of it in his throat, the quick headiness to quell an aching mind.

"to the Serpent Pharaoh on the Horus Throne."