Stefanya, determined to find a way to rouse her master Zoqquanor from his state of death, convinces Conan to leave with the body that very night rather than risk the protection spells of the sorcerer's keep. Pausing only to change her outfit, during which Conan notics an odd star-shaped birthmark on Stefanya's hip, the two quickly make a travois and begin their journey. After traveling most of the night, Conan stops at some ruins to sleep but is awakened by Stefanya as a band of pig-like dwarves attacks, having heard of Zoqquanor's state and wishing to gain revenge on the sorcerer for some slight. Conan fights them on, but the two realize they must continue on without rest, and continue their journey east.