“It is true that I am a queen, is it not, Olfan?”
“It is true, Lady.”
“And as Queen of the People of the Mist I have power, have I not, Olfan.”
“Even to life and death,” he answered gravely; “though if you kill, you must answer to the Council of the Elders and to me. All in this land are your servants, Lady, and none dare to disobey you except on matters of religion.”
“Good,” said Juanna. Then addressing the captains in a tone of command, she added, “Seize that priest who is named Nam, and the woman with him.”
Olfan looked astonished and the captains hesitated. As for Nam, he did not hesitate, but made a bound towards the door.
“Stay awhile, Nam,” said the king, making a barrier before him with his spear; “doubtless the Queen has reasons, and you would wish to hear them. Hold them, my captains, since the Queen commands it.”
Then the three men sprang upon them. Once Nam tried to draw his knife, but failing in his attempt he submitted without further struggle. With Soa it was different. She bit and tore like a wild-cat, and Juanna saw that she was striving to reach the panel and to speak through it.
“On your lives do not suffer her to come to that door,” she said; “presently you shall know why.”
Then the brother of the king dragged Soa to the couch, and throwing her down upon it stood over her, his spear-point at her throat.