Invasion Warning: The Muisca Empire Threat

Invasion Warning

• A large group of well-armed invaders, potentially over 1,000 strong, are approaching.
• Their arrival is signaled by smoke signals from villages along their path.
• The sound of their conch shells, resembling mournful cries, reaches the prince.
• The prince possesses a unique clarity of vision, allowing him to see the invaders as if they were nearby.
• He envisions their distinctive features: large bows and poisoned arrows, bodies painted with red and black serpents and jaguars, bracelets and anklets made of feathers, and unusually tall heads achieved by binding infant skulls between boards.
• They are known for their knowledge of toxic substances and sorcery.
• The invaders' poisoned arrows are made with ants and snake saliva.
• They likely poisoned rivers as they traveled.
• Their motivation is to conquer the fertile lands of the Muisca Empire.
• They avoid the territories of the powerful king of Unsa but target the more accessible and protected mountain area.
• The invading forces threaten the sacred valley of Iraka, a coveted region of the Muisca Empire.

The Prince Prepares

• The prince receives confirmation of the invaders' advance from his sentinels.
• He summons his own guards and prepares for war.
• The prince rallies a force of 500 warriors, a smaller number than the combined forces of the invaders and the Iraka people.
• The prince's wives, filled with anxiety, assist in preparing him for battle.
• They adorn him in sacred gold jewelry, which includes a pectoral, arm and ankle ornaments, earrings, and a nose ring.
• The prince's long, black hair is styled and adorned with a macaw feather crown.
• The prince is a Cipca, a leader of the Muisca people, with the sun as his patron.
• He is separated from his people by his elevated status but finds solace in the devotion of his wives.
• They share a spiritual connection, a privilege reserved for royal couples.

Rituals and Departure

• The prince and his wives consume chicha, a strong corn-based drink, before his departure.
• They offer prayers to Sua and Hichu, particularly to the goddess of mist and cold, Hichu, who is honored during this time.
• Chicha is distributed to the warriors before they leave.
• The warriors carry five mummified ancestors, esteemed heroes from past battles, adorned with gold.
• The mummies' large, emerald eyes are believed to instill courage and overcome fear.
• The mummies are believed to alleviate physical ailments and bring serenity.
• Their light calms fear and anxiety.