Act IV Scene V

ACT IV SCENE V - THE EMPRESS' JOURNEY (The Empress is surrounded by retainers.) Retainer 1: Empress... the people are concerned. Concerned that the child has not aged. Empress Zhou: He is a stubborn boy. He does not wish to leave the comfort of his mother's embrace. Retainer 2: But so long an infancy? It is unnatural. Even here, in this strange place. Empress Zhou: I share your worry. But I fear the days do not pass as we have come to expect in this unsettling place. Retainer 1: Poor soul. What cruel fate awaits a child reared in a place forsaken by time? Retainer 2: Hush, fool! You forget yourself! How dare you- (The Empress raises a hand.) Empress Zhou: Enough. He gives voice only to the thoughts we all bear. But my son's fate is in my hands. And I intend to do my duty. As both Empress and mother. (Lights out.)