We saluted Nyleptha and took our accustomed places, and for a little while things went on as usual, when suddenly the trumpets began to call outside the palace, and from the great crowd that was gathered there in anticipation of some unusual event there rose a roar of '_Sorais! Sorais!_' Then came the roll of many chariot wheels, and presently the great curtains at the end of the hall were drawn wide and through them entered the 'Lady of the Night' herself.

Nor did she come alone.

Preceding her was Agon, the High Priest, arrayed in his most gorgeous vestments, and on either side were other priests.
The reason for their presence was obvious -- coming with them it would have been sacrilege to attempt to detain her.

Behind her were a number of the great lords, and behind them a small body of picked guards.

A glance at Sorais herself was enough to show that her mission was of no peaceful kind, for in place of her gold embroidered 'kaf' she wore a shining tunic formed of golden scales, and on her head a little golden helmet.