Scene 7 Summary

In one of Irma's rooms, now ruined by explosions, Irma, Carmen and the Chief meet with the Envoy, who talks about the safety of the Queen. The Chief asks what's happened to her, and the Envoy tells a deliberately confusing story about how she's being kept hidden and occupied. He says she is nevertheless still doing what she does best, wearing the crown. Irma and the Chief ask about the revolution, commenting on the destruction of both the palace and the Balcony. The Envoy starts to talk again about the Queen, but the Chief says he needs to see a real Queen, not some idea of one. The Envoy says the attack on the palace has been stalled by guards who are willing to die to protect the Queen and adds that she is moving from room to room within what's left of...