Is it only that? If that will give you pleasure, I consent. [She begins to ascend the steps.] I mount but slowly: I am crushed and fainting. The poison which you promised lulls one to sleep, does it not? It does not sharpen and distort the features, I hope. The Phoenix, even in the agony of death would wish to retain some charm.
EMPEROR [In the same mood]
It is even better than you hope. It comes from the Western Barbarians. Lustrous pearls under a thin leaf of gold. One passes into space in a sudden sleep, an exquisite intoxication——
EMPRESS [Still far away] Ah!——in a sleep—[They have reached the top of the steps. She half reclines across the throne, which is almost as large as a divan. The EMPEROR remains standing.] Well, now——delay no longer, speak——
EMPEROR
It was not the prompting of a mere whim which urged me to see you seated there. What we have to say is so solemn. The interview of an Emperor and an Empress, power speaking to power!——
At this height, raised above our earthly personalities, we shall feel more conscious of our superhuman mission.
EMPRESS
Power speaking to power? I am no longer anything but a captive, who counts for naught.
EMPEROR