"That is true. I ask that the maiden whom I have taken in war be given to me in peace."
"The maiden, Una, dwells in the Father's cave!" said Uglik.
"Then cry I rannag on you, Uglik, the Father!" cried Anak. "I challenge you to the fight to death, which you may not refuse and continue to rule."
"And on you I pass the death word!" shouted Uglik. "Hunters—"
"The Father may not pass the death word on one who has cried rannag," retorted Anak. "Such is the law!"
"Such is the law!" echoed the hunters, glad of an excuse not to attack the two hunters of whose prowess they knew so much.
Uglik looked from one group to the other.
"When the sun starts to rest, the rannag will be fought," he answered. "When I have slain this traitor, Una becomes High Priestess. Hunters, bind the hag, Esle, that she may not escape. Anak, lead the way to the valley of plenty."
Packing up was a simple matter for the tribe of Ugar. In five minutes they were following Anak to the valley of the Neanderthalers. When they arrived, Uglik picked out the largest of the caves, and told the hunters to choose their own. In a few minutes the tribe was established in their new home. Esle was released from her bonds, for it was essential that the High Priestess of Degar Astok prepare the ground for the rannag.