Captured after a rebellion, Her Majesty's eunuch Jerome and the claimed princess Lillian Devine are accused of fleeing the palace and insulting the royal family. Mr. Larson condemns them and orders both to be drowned to uphold royal dignity. Lillian begs, pleads guilty, and others—Matt, her teacher—implore mercy as execution begins and guards count off. Jerome and Lillian confess failure and brace for death. At the final count a royal edict arrives: Her Majesty orders Princess Devine's return and rise to the throne, throwing the execution into sudden doubt and leaving Jerome's fate unresolved.