[With drooping head] I knew too well!
FAITHFUL PRINCE
The hope of all, THE VICTORY to come, our Young Emperor!—He should be protected from the dangers of war, in safety, far from here, in some inaccessible province.
EMPRESS
"Let the precious torch which shall illumine the future be placed beyond the reach of the wind." Thus spoke the astrologer. Yes, the blind man did see into the invisible. Thus is the mystery of his words explained——!
FAITHFUL PRINCE
We must obey the oracle. Misfortune foreseen can often be avoided. Winged Prince, and you Veiled-Light, sage councillors, does your opinion coincide with mine.
WINGED PRINCE
It is the same in every point.
FAITHFUL PRINCE