At mention of these unknown vessels, the king’s scarcely-concealed indifference vanished. He looked surprised, then alarmed. With increasing emotion, he glanced from rulers to nobles to find their wearied expressions had, at least, become interested.
But on went the harangues. One captain had sailed beyond the western seas, and northward up a mighty river to the colony Missos.[[5]] Another had sailed around the country of the Afrites, and eastward to that sultry land that supplied them with gems. Another had been to the land of the Eskaldi.[[6]] Thus ran the reports until it was the turn of the last captain but one. He stepped out with an air important; and, in more important tone, began:
“O most gracious of kings, Atlano, to thy great self I would state that I am captain of the vessel Paero. It is eleven moons since I left for Khemi,[[7]] with a cargo of rare woods, grains, and wool. I bring from Khemi green stone, red granite of Syene, and the byssus of the Middle Sea. Yesterday came I back to Cleit; and therefore have I not my roll. But within a day will it be ready.”
But this captain, instead of returning to his place, stood waiting.
“What wilt thou, Sir Captain?” asked the chamberlain.
“O most gracious of kings, Atlano, to thy great self I would state more.”
Most eager became the expressions of king and nobles. The captain paused until the chamberlain signed for him to continue.
“Most gracious king, a people across the Middle Sea, to the north of Khemi, causeth fear in the lands about it because of its quick rise to power. It is not long since this people passed over from the far east, and now it ruleth the sea. It is magic.”
The king’s red skin deepened to purple. In a voice grown hoarse, he exclaimed:
“The name of this people!”