Page:The Incas of Peru.djvu/84

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CHAPTER V

RISE OF THE INCAS

There was a feeling of unrest among the descendants of the conquering tribes led by the Ayars to Cuzco. Vice was unchecked, the leaders of the people remained inert in the Inti-cancha, and no progress was made. Yet the people themselves were still vigorous, only needing a resolute chief, with a genius for command, to guide and direct their destinies.

Among the discontented there was an ambitious lady, said to have been of the blood-royal, who, in consultation with her sister, one of the most noted sorceresses of that day, resolved to effect a revolution. Her name was Siuyacu, or the 'gradually increasing ring.'[1] She was shrewd, cautious, and determined.

Her son Rocca was to be the instrument to effect the revolution she contemplated for the good of her people. He was a youth in his twentieth year, well formed, handsome, valiant, and with a mind filled with lofty ideals. Already he was the

  1. Siui, a ring; yacu, a particle, denoting gradual advance or increase. The corrupt form is Ciuaco.

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