Section 25: Alexander Before the Queen

Alexander arrived with a heart as steady as a mountain, sent by the king who thirsts for knowledge. He showed no frown or unease before Queen Qaydafa, and he never let his heart give up on its great desire. He stayed through that night, and early the next morning he came down from the hall to see the queen. The ruler sat in a chamber like an elephant's palace, with all her people gathered in ranks around her. The head of the room was carved from onyx and gold, with many kinds of gems set within the gold. Before her stood attendants scented with musk, and her two worthy sons stood at her side. Tinush the horse-thrower and Qaydarush, both listening closely to Qaydafa's words. The younger son said to his mother: You are a king of good fortune and justice. Act in such a way that Bitqun leaves your court happy and content, and with a guide to see him home. Let no one harm him on the road, and let no one count him among our enemies. For it was he who gave my pure soul back to life; I am certain it is he who keeps my spirit bright. His mother said: I will do just that, and I will raise his standing even higher. The renowned queen said to Alexander: Now bring what is hidden into the open. What do you want, and what is Alexander's purpose? What message do you carry, and whose envoy are you? Alexander said to her: O exalted one, my stay with you has stretched long. He told me: Go and demand tribute from her land, and if you linger too long I will bring an army. I will leave her no country, no crown, no throne, no strength, no kingship, no treasure, and no fortune.