Within the hour the Nyloplast dome came shimmering into view. At a signal over the communication system, the top-right section leading to the hangars slid open, and the gyros droned through. When they landed, the captives were prodded out of the hangar into the dazzling morning light reflected more brilliantly from the Nyloplast screen. The hygienic whiteness of the city struck Allyn forcefully, as though he viewed it for the first time. They were led to a large, gleaming white building, into a high vaulted audience room. Straight ahead was the dais of marbleized seats where the Logicians met in Council. They sat there now, in full knowledge that Allyn would be in judgment before them. Metas, in skull cap and robes of judgment, sat in the center, regarding them with cold eyes. Allyn lifted a hand in salute of respect. The Council was silent. Drawing a deep breath Allyn glanced once at Keeven and Marva who were flanked by watchful Gards. "I bring hope for our people," he began and quickly recounted his adventures past the Barrier. The council listened dispassionately. With sinking heart Allyn realized his words were in vain. Numan belief in the animalism of Olman was too deep set. Mate with the beast! He saw the distaste in their expressions. "You go beyond the bounds of taste," Metas warned. "There is only one reason you are still alive, Allyn. You must consent to the mating as decreed." "I cannot. It would mean Aleena's death. Besides, I love Marva of the Olmen." Horror rippled through the Council. "Take them to the Syko Room!" Metas thundered. "I will administer Hypno myself." They were dragged to a side door, down a narrow corridor, into the thick doored syko room. Allyn knew it well--those white walls cunningly concealing lights and mirrors to stun the mind. The padded tables with bands of iron. He was pushed to a table, strapped down, flat on his back. Marva started toward him, but was flung back by a Gard and forced to stand against the wall beside her brother, while their captors stood with flame guns ready. The stony faced Chief Logician adjusted switches. Lights dimmed. Mirrors of various colors danced light spots before Allyn's eyes. He felt his senses swimming. He clenched his fists. Sweat stood out on his brow. Metas leaned over him, soft voiced, soothing. Allyn's mind strained against the lure. There was something he had to remember--a lesson, important as life itself. Oh, how the lights spun! If he could sleep! Sleep! The voice lured--sleep! "Allyn! RESIST!" Marva's voice! Then a Gard's fist silenced her. RESIST! The key. Jon's words: "They can't hypno you unless you already believe. Don't believe! Resist!"