The morning after Alurna's capture, twenty warriors were assembled in front of Sephar's palace. It was evident they awaited someone, for their eyes turned often to the great doors.
And then came Vulcar, arms laden with an assortment of weapons. Rapidly he handed them out to the twenty until each was fully armed. This done he barked out an order and the men formed into ranks, four abreast and five deep.
His hawk-like face set in stern lines, Vulcar faced them. "Warriors of Sephar," he began, "you know what has happened to the daughter of our king. You know, too, that five of your comrades died trying to save her. Most of you knew and admired Adbor. I saw Adbor die. He died while calling for his weapons, eager to take up the trail of those who had stolen the princess.
"To you goes the honor of avenging your comrades and returning the princess to her father, alive ... or dead."
As the calm voice ceased, a score of right arms shot up and a resounding shout rose from twenty throats.
"Then come," said Vulcar quietly, and turned to lead the way.
But before the men could move to follow him, a deep voice from the palace doorway bade them wait.
Clothed in the simple harness of an ordinary warrior, and fully armed, Urim descended the steps and came up to Vulcar.
"I will go with you," he said simply.
Vulcar had been afraid of this. Urim no longer was a young man; to take him along might cost Sephar a ruler, as well as its favorite daughter.