 The King is informed by his astrologer Siroco that his destiny is linked with that of an itinerant painter named Lazuli, who is in love with the King's intended bride, the Princess Laoula.Siroco's astrological charts reveal that Lazuli's death will result in the King's.The King decrees that Siroco will be executed moments after the King's death, and so both have an interest in keeping Lazuli alive.