"--and a prisoner," argued Ramey desperately, "like ourselves. Is that not proof enough he is no ally of the Lord Ravana? Evidence that his foe is our foe? If you kill this man, you do a service to the lord we hate. Can you not hear the laughter of Ravana at learning his prisoners fight amongst themselves, destroy each other?" * * * * * And--the battle of words was won! Tauthus of Cush dropped his blade into his belt, released his captive sheepishly and moved away. A man of spirit he was, but he was a man of logic, too. He said thoughtfully, "There is wisdom in what you say, stranger. But, mind you--" And he glared at those who were now circling about them curiously--"let none think cowardice stayed the wrath of Tauthus, or that fellow's guts shall feed the rats!" "None shall think that, Tauthus," Ramey assured him. "If I read not the future wrongly, the time comes, and it not far removed, when each and every man in this dungeon shall be given the chance to prove his valor." An eager light flashed in the other man's eyes. He said hoarsely, "What mean you, newcomer?" "I shall tell you. But first--how many prisoners dwell in these caverns?" Tauthus shrugged. "Who knows? Three score, perhaps? Maybe more?" "Can you gather their group leaders, their captains, for a council?" The Coptic chieftain nodded. "That I can, and will." To decide, with Tauthus of Cush, was to act. He wheeled away abruptly, began shouting orders. "You ... and you ... and you! Haste into the farthest reaches of the dungeon. Gather here all who dare die that they might live again. Hurry--" Now the white-haired Videlian, who had stood quietly at Ramey's side throughout this interlude, turned to his protector. "Man of Earth," he said gravely, "I thank you. Not for myself, because my life is of little importance. But for having quelled an act which might have destroyed us all. Can I repay you in any way? What can I do to help this plan you have?" "Nothing just now, thanks," said Ramey. "Later, perhaps--Wait a minute! You _can_ help me. Point out which of the Videlians is known as Vibhishana." The old man smiled sadly. "That will not be hard, my friend," he said. "For _I_ am--or once was--the Lord Vibhishana." CHAPTER XIV Escape Ramey stared at the claimant incredulously. Surely this man could not be the brother of Lord Ravana! Father or uncle, perhaps. But--