Hesea

We wondered whether the man from beyond the mountains was as good as his word and had brought down the vengeance of that priestess called the Hesea upon the community which sheltered him.

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

"The Hesea dwells yonder," he answered, and, taking each of us by the hand, he led us forward across the great emptiness of the apse to the altar at its head.

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

As it proved, I was wise, for quite quietly the Hesea repeated after me -- "Thou hast experience, Holly, for out of trouble comes the truth, as out of wine."

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

On her throne sat the veiled Hesea, giving commands to her priests and priestesses.

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

Then the Hesea spoke in a voice very faint at first, that by slow degrees grew stronger.

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

Should the Khania Atene attempt to detain them against their will, then raise the Tribes upon her in the name of the Hesea; depose her from her seat, conquer her land and hold it.

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

Oros whispered to me -- "It is madness, the Hesea will be slain."

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

The Hesea lifted her hooded head, which seemed to have been sunk upon her breast as though she were overcome by thought or care, and addressed Oros the priest.

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

"What seeks my vassal, the Khania of Kaloon?" asked the Hesea in a cold voice.

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890

All the Tribes, however, were sworn to the defence of the Hesea and the College, and, however much they might quarrel amongst themselves, if need arose, were ready to die for her to the last man.

Ayesha, the Return of She Henry Rider Haggard 1890