We heard the cry of the guards and a chorus of answering trumpets. Our chariot crested the hill and drove through the avenue to the main gate. The last ray of sun was flaring down the golden horizon. We passed the boundary stones that marked the palace grounds.

Once we arrived at the threshold of the throne room, we saw the King and Queen standing there waiting for us. Their kingly robes cast their glow among the crowd. All around were royal guards and palace maidens, and all the children of the Meru gods.

We stepped out of our chariot and went to greet them. Queen Indradevi came first to...