The heavy rumble of wheels against stone echoed through the avenue of Yarzat, announcing the arrival of the stately carriage long before it could be seen. When it finally rolled into view, the townsfolk lining the road bowed low, placing their right hands solemnly over their hearts in the shape of a star — the sacred symbol of the gods.
Children were shushed by stern mothers, merchants halted their cries, and even beggars paused in their plaintive pleas for homage.
Above the lacquered black roof of the carriage, swaying gently with each turn of the wheels, hung a massive silver emblem: the Great Star of the Gods, glinting coldly in the spring light.
