"Closer," Emperor Euphrates commanded. "Why so shy? Let me get a good
look at you. That's it. Now tell me, why do you not speak when
commanded?"
Eyes downcast, Si'Wren shook her head, giving her answer to this and
also clearly showing her ability to hear and understand quite plainly,
and remained standing utterly silent and resolute before him.
Emperor Euphrates peered narrowly at the stubborn girl.
"Do you not know that it is death to disobey your Emperor? Speak, I
command you."
But Si'Wren could not break her vow again, as she had done that
terrible night when Habrunt came to rescue her. She must never speak
again, no matter what, lest she dishonor her Invisible God.
Raising his eyebrows in frustration, Emperor Euphrates looked up at the
throng and proclaimed, "Is this child a deaf and dumb mute? Is there
any present who knows why this child refuses to obey her Emperor?"
Off to the left, one of Sorpiala's consorts stepped several quick steps
forward and fell down prostrate on her face with the muffled cry, "Aye,
Highness!"
"Ah," nodded Emperor Euphrates approvingly. "What say you?"
"She is neither deaf, nor dumb, nor mute, but has been sworn to a vow
of silence by her former master, on her very life, as fitting
punishment for being a filthy idol-breaker!" declared the young woman,
turning her head about quickly as she swept the royal court with her
flashing eyes.
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