The Kaiserin gently bit her lips. After hesitating for a moment, she said, "Okay." Then she told Darryl the way to leave the palace.

"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Darryl said gratefully.

The delicate face of the Kaiserin remained unchanged. She said softly, "I hope you can keep your mouth shut about what just happened. If I find out you are spreading the words outside, I will send someone to track you to the ends of the earth."

Darryl was stunned for a moment and then smiled bitterly. "Don't wor