( وَجَاءَ السَّحَرَةُ فِرْعَوْنَ ) (And the magicians came to Pharaoh): The magicians came carrying their ropes and staffs, and said:

( إِنَّ لَنَا لَأَجْرًا إِن كُنَّا نَحْنُ الْغَالِبِينَ ) (“Indeed for us is a reward if we are the predominant.”). In another verse, it says:

  أَئِنَّ لَنَا لَأَجْرًا إِن كُنَّا نَحْنُ الْغَالِبِينَ

(“Is there indeed for us a reward if we are the predominant?”)

(Ash-Shu’araa: 41)

The use of (Is there) in this above verse, suggests a questioning aspect, whereas (indeed) in this verse of discussion affirms their desire for a reward. As if they are demanding a reward if they were victorious.