"Yes," admitted Kargen, "and Agar means the same thing in Orcish, 'one who is strong.' It is a powerful name, and he shall be proud to bear it, like his uncle, Athgar."

Athgar blushed, "I'm humbled."

"And so you should be," said Kargen with a smile, "for one day Agar shall grow to be chieftain of this tribe, just you wait and see."

Athgar, seeing cups had been laid before them, raised his into the air. "In the manner of my own people, I should like to offer a toast."

They mimicked his actions, though they had to wait while Laruhk refilled his cup.

"To Agar, son of Kargen and Shaluhk," started the Human, "may he have the prowess of his father and the wisdom of his mother."

They all cheered, then downed the drinks in one gulp.

Kargen let out a burp, then smiled. "Now," he said, "it is time to feast." He clapped his hands, and a moment later, Durgash appeared at the doorway.

"What news?" asked the newcomer.

"I have a son," said Kargen, "and his name shall be Agar!"

"The ancestors have truly blessed you," replied Durgash. "Will you come now and feast with your tribe? They wish to celebrate the blessing of our ancestors."

Kargen rose from his seat, signalling the others to do likewise. "Let us join the tribe," he said. "Shaluhk shall lead the way with our son."

They followed her into the great hall where, much to Athgar's surprise, the fire pit was alight, and the entire village crowded around it. Meat now roasted over the fire, where only a short time ago, the room had been empty. He looked to the far end of the fire pit to see Artoch. The master of flame had a sheepish look to his face and nodded as their eyes met.

They took their seats, and the celebration began.

It was dark by the time Kargen stepped out for some air. The sounds of merriment would, no doubt, continue well into the early hours of the morning, but the smoke from the great fire pit had started to burn his eyes.

He took a deep breath, relishing the cool breeze as it blew across his face. Turning about to re-enter the hut, he noticed Athgar leaning against the outside wall of the hut, his eyes staring into the night sky above.

"Something troubling you, my friend?" Kargen asked.

Athgar lowered his head, looking to his comrade. "It's time for me to leave," he announced.

Kargen moved closer, nodding his head. "I knew this day would come," he said. "I take it you are ready to find those that destroyed your village?"

"I am," he confirmed, "and somewhere out there, I have a sister that's still alive, for Uhdrig assures me she has not joined my ancestors."

"Where will you start?"