PROLOGUE
The background represents cloud banks that resemble corroding slate cliffs with ruins of castles and fortresses.
The constellations of Leo, Virgo, and Libra are visible, and from their midst the planet Jupiter is shining with a strong light.
THE DAUGHTER OF INDRA stands on the topmost cloud.
THE VOICE OF INDRA [from above].
Where are you, daughter, where?
THE DAUGHTER.
Here, father, here.
THE VOICE.
You've lost your way, my child—beware, you sink—How got you there?
THE DAUGHTER.
I followed from ethereal heights the ray
Of lightning, and for car a cloud I took—
It sank, and now my journey downward tends.
O, noble father, Indra, tell what realms
I now draw near? The air is here so close,
And breathing difficult.