The first ceremony of interest was the admittance of Alan into the bosom of the Rorka’s family. In a wonderful golden robe Alan stood at the foot of the Rorka’s throne in the great white Throne Room in the palace. The whole apartment was thronged with guests, and by the Rorka’s side sat the Princess. She had on her face a grave, sweet smile, and in her court robes of blue and gold she made a regal figure.
A majordomo handed the Rorka a golden fillet of beautiful workmanship studded with diamonds. This was placed on Alan’s head by the Rorka himself, who said—“Oh Alan, known hence forward by the Royal prefix of Ak—I salute thee. Thou hast taken the oaths of allegiance to me, your Rorka. Thy fidelity and love thou hast offered me. I salute thee, Oh Ak-Alan,” and he took him by both hands, and kissed him on either cheek, and raised him to the topmost step of the throne. Then Alan faced the people.
“Behold him,” said the Rorka. “Ak-Alan, a noble of the House of Pluthoz. Acclaim him as your own, for he is indeed a Prince of the House of your Rorka.”
How the people cheered! With one accord they shouted and surged forward to the foot of the throne, and stretched out their hands to their newly made prince. Alan was delighted with his reception, and had an individual word to say to nearly every one who came near him. The story of his adventure for Chlorie had been widely told; Kulmervan’s treachery was known; and every one welcomed the newcomer royally. But this was only the beginning. Ak-Alan had to become a Djoh of the Outer Shelter, and to receive the blue ribbon of his office. The Golden Circle of Unity of Keemar was placed on his finger—The Star of Joy—The Order of Hope—all these ceremonies took their time. But they were all picturesque and interesting.
Many times had he looked upon Chlorie, but never had an opportunity been given to him to speak with her alone. But at his ardent gaze, the shy colour would mount her cheeks, and her eyes would drop in sweet embarrassment.
Waz-Y-Kjesta had been appointed to the Royal Household of Ak-Alan, and was delighted to have the opportunity to remain by the side of the friend he had made. Persoph the Jkak, and Mirasu the Jkakalata had sent handsome presents to Alan and Chlorie, and had expressed their sorrow when Desmond had announced his intention of settling down in Hoormoori.
“We want to be near Alan,” explained Sir John.
“We shall miss you of course. We are grateful for your kindness to us all since we arrived so strangely in your land. But we should miss the society of our kinsman, we must stay near him.”
“We understand,” said Persoph. “But visit us, my friends, and allow us to visit you. Your friendship is dear to us—your esteem we prize.”
Several orders had been offered Sir John, but he stuck to his prefix throughout. “My father earned it,” he explained. “I honour him by using it. Please allow me to keep it,” and the Rorka gave his permission. During all this time Masters had scarcely left Sir John’s side. A devoted friend, a loyal servant, he remained always at hand in case the old man needed him. And when Alan had been appointed Ak of the House of Pluthoz, Masters received the shock of his life. Suddenly the majordomo cried out, “And I command Masters of the household of Sir John to kneel at the foot of the Rorka’s throne.”