“This will guard thee on thy journey, and prevent evil machinations from having control over the matters in hand.”
What she said in return was drowned in the blare of trumpets and the general preparations for departure.
“May Ambra plant flowers and make thy life a garden spot. May the Good Spirit protect and bless thee and thine,” was shouted after the moving column.
“May the spirits of darkness never cast a shadow on thy pathway,” came in answering echoes, as the trees and rocks finally hid the departing embassy.
CHAPTER SEVEN
KEŒCIA VISITS THE ENCHANTED GARDENS
It was called the “Lifting of Banners” the day that the high-priestess, Kerœcia, arrived in Tlamco and the anniversary was for centuries after, celebrated with much pomp and ceremony.
Stout ropes of similar fiber to that in use to-day were stretched from the inner to the outer circle of obelisks. At regular intervals along these lines were strung bits of cotton cloth in octavos of coloring, alternating square and triangular shapes with innumerable devices painted upon them.
Pennants of the priesthood, of the civic federation, and of the innumerable clans, were everywhere afloat on the breeze, while Iaqua was a mass of Monbas streamers, banners and flags. All of the balsas flew the colors of the high-priestess, and there was a splendid escort pageant along the canal.
When Kerœcia approached the landing, long lines of citizens extended from Iaqua to the water’s edge. As Yermah led the way in a state chariot, a deafening shout arose. The wheels fairly flew over the causeway as the thoroughbred horses galloped in even step under Yermah’s steady hand. Kerœcia stood beside him happy and smiling graciously.
The chariot was of ivory and gold, resplendent with jewels. The hub of each wheel was a golden sunburst, while the twelve spokes representing the signs of the zodiac, were outlined with appropriate gems and colors. This gorgeous state vehicle was drawn by three white horses caparisoned in creamy white and gold with rows of jewels and crests of tropic plumage held in place with long twisted ropes of yellow silk. A canopy of the same flaming yellow fabric intricately brocaded, protected the occupants from the sun.