I will do as you command, Pharaoh. Hotep replied, It is gladness to bring you comfort, and if you think me worthy of the honour, I will serve as such in utmost faithfulness. Titles, it seemed, collected upon him like feathers. He wondered when his chest would feel lighter for it, as it was supposed to do. But there was still relief in the affirmation — in being given trust, in being seen as valuable. The gods asked much of him, and to answer the call came like instinct. He had purpose here, in the shadow of Pharaoh and Queen, and there was joy in it. Even warmth. Perhaps he would master his own heart in time.

But now Pharaoh asked of Eunuchs. It may be a practical warning, Mighty One. Did Horus not do the same to Set? Some called it a disgrace, but this calmed the god of storms, when naught else could.

As to the technical aspect, It is like oxen, my King. If castrated early enough, the desire may escape him entirely. Hotep tilted his head, Those with the memory, or changes of body, are more like to be drawn in, but the spell is not so powerful upon them, and discipline easier to maintain. In either event, they cannot seed, and so would not threaten a dynasty.

Some wedded women, he knew, had kept eunuchs for their own pleasure for just such a reason.