“No, poor bird, it only seems that way when the earth is rising to higher levels of righteousness and love.”

Elan could not believe it. Four Vollkons had perished in the encounter. In the days that remained he had to mobilize his legions. They were at battle stations on the Plains of Man, facing the east in numbers so abundant that their armor seemed a silver ribbon around the walls. Alert, the soldiers waited and watched the road to catch sight of the alien horde. They scanned the skies to catch a glimpse of Ansond’s horse. But the bleak day ended and nothing yet was visible.

The three remaining Vollkons had been busy carrying the canisters of ore from the Crystal Range to the central armory well inside the City of Man. It was clear to Elan that the capital was the destination of the Singer’s troops and the likely site of conflict. When all the ore had been transported, the Vollkons perched on the eastern wall above the troops of Ellanor like a crown of evil on a doomed city.

Fear gnawed the capital. The city had been sealed. The gates were bolted and the drawbridge drawn.

Inside the city those who wore the chain and seal heard rumors that an alien army stretched around the planet.

Who were they? Where was their kingdom? Who were the flying knight and singing general? And most plaguing of all, “Why could Vollkons not destroy them?”

The Singerians inside the city were jubilant. “He comes!” they said as they met each other in the dismal streets.

At the beginning of the second day, while the soldiers gathered in formation on the plains, the Prince of Mirrors rode through the streets. For the first time he was on his horse. He wore a helm, breastplate and sword. His eyes searched every crowd he met. He sought but could not find Dreamer. The Death Stallion, a black steed who matched the giant’s hulk, was ominous.

“Dreamer is in the city,” the Prince of Mirrors said to Elan, who showed small concern. “Elan! He has escaped your mine in the Crystal Mountains and has crossed the Steppes of Varge and Thade on foot. He is here now in the capital telling everyone of the military exploits of the Singer and his knights. He is preaching in the streets that Ellanor will perish in the War of Fire. He dismays those who wear the seal and chain. He cries that all must now repudiate the doctrine of the glass.”

Elan sensed the fury in the voice.

“His bleak words,” continued the Black Knight, “set the city in dismal doubt about your ability to defend it. Let us now impound all Singerians not already in our prisons and put them to death!”

“It is the only way,” agreed Elan, somewhat absently.

“Now!” demanded the Dark Prince.

“Yes, now. There is very little time,” Elan said.

The Prince of Mirrors rode to the armory and made the announcement. The sentries arrested everyone who did not wear the chain. Singerians were ferreted from homes and alleyways, and placed in an old building near the armory.