"Ever am I more indebted to you."
"What is my lady's latest caprice?"
"You know I am virtually a prisoner here. All of the palace is mine, but the bird is none the less barred because the cage is gilded. An aged aunt of mine is dying, and she has sent for me to soothe her last hours. I would go to her bedside. Will you not ask the king's permission that I may go?"
Amulon was touched by her earnestness, for ever are strong men weakest through their strength.
"Go, Zara, and I will be responsible to the king." He stepped to the door and summoned Mulek. "Do you accompany this lady wherever she goes. See that no harm approaches, and return her in safety to the palace."
Mulek bowed and retreated.
Zara sallied out accompanied by the giant soldier Mulek. They made their way to a large house with a stone front. They entered, and passed through corridor after corridor, until they came to the one that led to the death chamber.
"You will wait here for me, Mulek?"
"The Lord Amulon said I was not to let you out of my sight."
"But you can't go in there when she is dying!"