Under Ptor-Nubis's hypnotic command, Conan and Belit begin to duel. Luckily, Zula is able to shake off the sorcerer's spell, and cuts Ptor-Nubis down. Zula, M'Gora, Conan, and Belit make short work of the Stygian soldiers, and Zula and M'Gora leave to spread word of Belit's return among the population. Nim-Karrak, hearing of Belit's return, and suspecting that Ptor-Nubis has been slain, goes into hiding just as Prince Khamun, under orders of King Ctesphon, brings his forces into the castle to take command. Khamun, in an effort to consolidate power, immediately has the merchant Uriaz captured, much to the chagrin of the Asgalun population, who wish to remain independent. Khamun is crowned king by the high priest Bal-Yamm, who has been promised the Ishtar religion will be allowed to remain,