Conan scrounges for the haw head gear of the warrior he killed and makes his way to the walls of Harakht. Meanwhile, Belit and Neftha are brought to Harakht's king, Hor-Neb, whose interest in Belit is cut short by the arrival of his brother, priest and co-ruler Mer-Ath, who desires Belit for his temple. Hor-Neb prevails, and Mer-Ath takes Neftha as the disguised Conan approaches and enters the gates. Mer-Ath explains to Neftha the precarious position of Harakht as an independent city in Stygia's midst, and how the giant hawks, found in the proximity of a fallen green star-rock, have helped keep the city safe, though Mer-Ath fears the recent acts piracy by his brother will bring Luxur's wrath on the city. Their conversation is interrupted by the sounds of battle below - Conan has been disco