SCENE V

_A Ballroom in the Fairy's Palace_

(_All that remains standing is the columns and aisles forming the portico of an immense, luminous room, which might have been hewn and carved out of a mountain of amber. Under the dazzling arches_ THE SIX GIRLS _move about, arrayed in resplendent, trailing gowns, with their feet encased in gilt sandals, their hair hanging loose and their hands filled with flowers. They joyously beckon to_ TYLTYL, _who, at first dumbfounded, rushes towards them and joins in their games and dances_. THE VEILED GIRL _alone stands on one side, leaning against the column_.)

THE FAIRY

(_Observing_ DESTINY, _draped in a long black cape, with a broad-brimmed Spanish sombrero on his head_.) I say, there's Destiny!... She has dressed him like the villain in a play!... (_Clapping her hands_.) Come, children, it is time to be starting.... All this doesn't count: the real work is about to begin....

CURTAIN