You cannot lie ever, because a lie destroys the credibility of the product, and credibility is more important than anything. Credibility's even more important than clarity.
He [Kai] blinked. His eyes fell as he processed her response. Then he lifted his chin and attempted a grin that was almost painfully dejected. "No, it's all right. I understand. " Dr. Erland leaned back against his desk. "My sincerest condolences, Your Highness. In more ways than one, it seems.