The [G 11 / Inca] emperor was the son of the sun in the eyes of his people, and was worshipped and obeyed as such. A cult of his royal children by his many concubines grew up around him to worship and protect him. He had complete power to make decisions governing all aspects of his citizens' lives. The only limitation to his power was that he should obey custom, and this meant being a strong but just ruler.
The young prince who was named successor had to undergo vigorous training and participated in the fitness rites for boys who had reached puberty. He was expected to excel in these tests to prove his worth to rule. A new emperor was installed with great ceremony into the elaborate Inca court.
Once crowned as emperor, his lifestyle, manner and every action was also surrounded by ceremony. Hundreds of servants, serving girls and advisers lived in the court to serve him. When he traveled, he was carried by his most important officials on a [ I 004 / litter] covered with jewels. He married one woman, his royal queen or `[G 09/coya],' who in later Inca times was often his sister. When the emperor died, his body was mummified. Often his favorite servants and concubines would be voluntarily sacrificed to accompany him in death.
