They protect the tombs and inquire riddles. A strong, intelligent monster, so famous in the area, they have been forever depicted in sculpture.
The thief does not believe in such nonsense. He doubts the great powers of Re-Atum.
The man needs money to purchase a meal for his kin, however, greed is overpowering the senses. Wouldn't it be nice to have a bit extra? To not struggle? To not fear for starvation each day? A tomb can provide that and more. The man has seen how many incredible treasures they have waisted among the dead.
As the thief begins to search for an entrance to the grave, he hears a low growling noise close by.
The man freezes. The hairs on his neck stand up.
Something is watching him.
Something behind.
Something terrifying.
A voice booms from the darkness: "What? What is this injustice?! Speak! Why are you here?"
The man turns slowly- and faces a massive beast. More terrifying then anything depicted in sculpture.
The creature has the body of a blood-thirsty lion and the head of a human. There are a few noticeable differences between her and the sculptures. The creature seems to have a large circle of something transparent over one eye- as clear as water. There is also a square shaped jewel on her chest.
"Well? You have not answered human! Why do you hesitate? Are you guilty or not?"
The man looks into the creatures eyes- they seem to judge him. He answers: " I-I require food for my family. I need to get inside the tomb. It would assist with my struggles."
The Sphinx seems thoughtful for a second, before coming up with an easy solution. "Perhaps a trial is in order! A riddle! Are you willing to sacrifice yourself for your endeavors?"
The thief seems nervous, but nods in agreement. Sphinxes (from what he can remember) enjoy puzzles. They seem to take wonderful satisfaction in exchanging entry for something much more.
Not a fair trade by any means, but perhaps it would get the monster to leave?
"Wonderful! Here is your question! Which creature has one voice, and yet, becomes four-footed, then two-footed, then three-footed? This is a simple riddle! Even the most idiotic of clods can decode it!"
The thief thinks. He has always enjoyed games, but prefers physical activity over a battle of wits.
"Well? What is your answer?"
He is stumped- too nervous to come up with anything.
The man panics. He changes his mind. In one swift movement, desert sand is quickly kicked into the creature's face. The animal howls in pain, as the thief bolts- running as fast as he can back to his home.
The human will no longer ever doubt the power of the mighty god Re-Atum!
Not all corrupted Gems lose their ability to speak. Even the most beastly of aliens still keep a bit of themselves inside.
Zircons are no exception.
