Crossing the bay, he came upon a few refugees from the far north, led by Cezardis, who cried childishly when he encountered for the first time in many days this evidence of any living thing. Running toward Akaza, he kissed and fondled him in his excitement, while the others gave every evidence of thankfulness and joy.
“Tell me all that has befallen thee,” said Akaza, holding him at arm’s length.
“It would need more than man’s allotted time to convey all,” answered Cezardis. “Death and destruction are everywhere. A puny chain stands between the main land of the Ians and my country. The peak next the shore opposite, and over which the priestess Kerœcia passed, has fallen into the sea,[[12]] and all the high mountains are putting forth smoke, ashes and melted rocks. In some places the earth heaves and groans continuously; in other spots, water pours all the time; while hot air makes man and beast labor for breath.”
“Ben Hu Barabe and Alcyesta are in Tlamco,” said Akaza. “They alone of all the Monbas survived the visitation of the fire-spirits.”
“We knew as much from the terrible rocking still going on in their country. The water has deserted the rivers everywhere, and is making new places where it has not sunk into the earth. Didst thou see the dread messenger in the heavens near the place of Venus?”
“Yes; and it will soon make the house of Mars, and then there will be contention in Tlamco.”
“How fares Yermah, the beloved of Kerœcia?”
“Thy heart will be wrung by sight of him. Reason fled for many days. But it is decreed otherwise, and he will soon find peace. Farewell! I go to fulfill an obligation,” said Akaza, embracing the weary travelers. “Commiseration and surcease of care be thy portion.”
“May the Divine bring thee speedily on thy journey!” they said with one accord. “We will pray the Azes to afford us shelter.”
“Thy petition will be quickly answered. Thou wilt find them altered and distraught, but in bodily health.”