The hunters looked at one another doubtfully.
"He lies!" shrilled Esle.
"We do not lie!" retorted Anak. "Their bones, picked clear by Kena, lie in their ravine. We come in peace to lead you to their home. There are warm caves and game in plenty. We will rejoin the tribe if the Father will remove the death word. Otherwise, attack us if you dare, and the tribe of Ugar will join the cousins of Gumor."
Uglik's face plainly showed hesitation.
"The death word his been passed," he said doubtfully. "It can be withdrawn only by a sacrifice to Degar Astok."
"We two have offered five of the cousins of Gumor, and a boy. Is that not enough?"
"It must be a human sacrifice!" cried Esle.
"Then, hag of evil omen, traitor to Uglik, attempted slayer of Invar and me, I offer you!" cried Anak furiously, his spear raised.
"Sacrilege!" she shrilled, darting behind Uglik. "Slay the defamer of the God!"
"What mean these charges, Anak?" asked Uglik darkly.