Through the dusty paths of Thebes, the boys are led, Chosen by the Queen disguised as a king, She who dominates the land.

Those who know her secret surrender to her beauty. Impoverished citizens offer their sons a chance, A wealthier life at court.

Selected carefully over time and trained in the serving arts,

The young men learn to protect and manage, Those left in their charge.

The steadfast workers compete for the few positions available.

Tutors summoned; linguists, warriors, advisors and physicians,

Astrologers, architects, priests and scholars.

Training intensifies each day, many are eliminated. Forced to find work hauling stones or in the marketplace,

But a select few overcome every obstacle hoping ambitiously.

Reports are served to the god on Earth, she who chooses their fate,

And once the selection is made the final test awaits.

Through the dusty paths of Thebes, the boys are led, Her chief advisor and his priests direct them towards the desert.

A test of endurance, walking in the intemperate climate.

Another challenge is set, to dig deeply and widely, Sand after sand.

The stealthiest and fittest remain.

Often three, seldom four.

As the losers are dismissed the final secret test arises; Over burning fires, the priests heat sharp blades, And in an instant, all are castrated.

Buried; abandoned in the scorching sun, One dies within a day as his water functions fail.

Agonising, sickening pain, poisoned by his own fluids.

Another dies thereafter; parched and sealed,

It heals what should not be healed and he suffers with a fill.

Advisors return to retrieve the survivor.

Adorned in finery he is returned to the palace, To guard the women fervently.

His loyalty now guaranteed.