It was understood throughout the realm of Peru that Huascar was Inca, and as such that he gave orders, and sent Orejones to the chief places in all the provinces to provide what he required. He was so intelligent, and was so popular, that he was much beloved by his people. When he began to reign, his age was about twenty-five, a little more or less. Having appointed Atoc to be his Captain-General, he ordered him, after having taken the people he would require from places along the road, as well mitimaes as natives, to march to Quito and put down the rebellion of the Inca's brother.

The Indians recount the subsequent events in several ways. I always follow the best version, which is held by the oldest and best informed among them, who are lords. For the common people, in all they say, cannot be relied upon as affirming the truth. Some relate that Atahualpa, not only resolved to refuse obedience to his brother, who was king, but even pretended to the sovereignty, seeing that the captains and soldiers of his father were on his side. He went to the country of the Cañaris, where he spoke with the native chiefs and with the mitimaes, telling them a plausible story. He said that his desire was not to injure his brother, as he wished for his welfare; but to keep friends with all, and to make another Cuzco at Quito, where all could enjoy themselves. He said that he had such good affection for them, that he would cause edifices and lodgings to be made for himself in Tumebamba.