Rushing, but at a snail’s pace

The Grand Parades march one after another, each mirroring the previous one for the horses Huedada and Taïaut. Lost souls, fallen champions, their drivers—and Don Fernando in particular—struggle in vain to move the guilty floats forward.

Monseigneur Ron Delé, rector of Mate la Reine, is tasked with forging a Holy Alliance between Mate la Reine and Huedada in order to reconquer the heavens. The Count of Moncet notes that the Canadian stopover has brought misfortune to the humble stables, leaving them withered and bruised, and full of resentment as they gaze upon a nearby hypogeum that offers no promise. Monsignor Ron Delé urges Sir Fernando to slow down: “Sir Fernando, please slow down. The relentless speed of your proud steed is oppressive. If you do not, the terrible martyr will soon force you—by Jupiter!—to end the adventure.” Don Fernando replies, “I understand, my lord. I will slow down here. But what do I see? A mirage? A mansion looming above my saddle? I cannot let this pass; such an insult would be unbearable.” Lord Ron Delé insists: “You must pass. Our Huedada horses are voracious and gluttonous. You think you are slow, but that will work in our favor. Slow down even more and pray to the gods.”

Don Fernando, furious and desperate, retorts: “Your Excellency, my pride prevents me from giving up my place at the manor. I have endured too many insults from the Sans-Bière. Spare my pride, or face my wrath.” Ron Delé, with a mixture of relief and despair, replies: “My overly proud champion, the problem is solved.”

Don Fernando asks, “Have you eliminated all these unwanted obstacles?” Monsignor Ron Delé replies, “Your riddles are fleeing; stop complaining. You must come to the stands and surrender.” In the shadows, Daniel the Affable whispers, “Taïaut, react! I am without passion, laughter has left me, even my smile. I am without glory, and abdication now seems sweet and alive to me, it is no longer forbidden.” He wonders: “What has become of Taïaut and the Glowing Bison? Where are the kings who once terrified even the pious Germans, now unbelievers? They no longer reign; they have been dethroned.” Don Fernando adds: “And where has the promised glory gone? Has it fled or evaporated? I ask only for a little honesty: what I see in the distance, is that my peak?”