The Taku King stood in the centre of the square. He was taller than the other Takus, about eleven feet tall, his broad shoulders covered in a costly robe woven of gold and silver thread. His crown was made of bone and feathers. Around his neck hung a locket carved from a single piece of obsidian—a circle with a snake entwined within it.
As Alberto and his party approached, the Taku King raised his hand, and the ceremonial music stopped. The entire square fell silent, only the soft rustle of leaves and the sound of distant running water could be heard.
The king spoke in his deep and resonant voice in Taku. Alberto, whose skill was helping him understand the language, heard every word clearly.
"Bernard Empire Emperor, I have heard a lot about you from Rachel. I am very happy to meet you"
"The pleasure is mine," Alberto replied, extending his hand in a gesture of goodwill.
