The beautiful Queen Ankh schemes for the crown of the frail Tut. Desperate for a viable son, she toys with the infatuated Carver, an inventive apprentice who spins dreams of becoming "great beyond words." Intoxicated, he spies on the royal couple, and becomes embroiled in the intrigues of the court. Ankh learns the chariot-driving technique of warrior pharaohs to prove her legitimacy, but she also drugs people to suit her aims. Tut dies in a reckless attempt to bolster his image, in which Carver plays a crucial role. The widowed Ankh sees her dreams crash, but Carver finds fresh beauty under her tears.