>         Torgath sighed, and nervousness crept back into him.  "I'm afraid, my good
> man, that a full explanation can not be given as of yet.  All I can tell
> you is that the life of everyone I hold dear depended on that dragon's head
> being taken, and taken by me alone.  Perhaps when the whole situation is
> over, I can explain more.  I apologize for my harsh words, but if my family
> died, I would have tried my best to kill you."  He looked up into the
> giant's eyes.  "Lucky for me, I didn't have to."
>

Thoughtfully, the scarred mercenary held Torgath's gaze for a long moment, weighing
his words and the look of utter sincerity in his eyes.  At last, a wry smile appeared
on his dark visage, and a hint of admiration shone from his crimson eyes.  "I can only
applaud the courage of one who would risk all for his family, friend Torgath.  As
Twilight would be happy to tell you, I am wont to use harsh words betimes, myself.
Indeed, you may have noticed it, yourself.  You took a double risk, comrade, in
attacking the dragon and in threatening me...we shall let the next few days provide
you insight on which was the greater risk.  Be that as it may," and here the warmage
sat up straighter on Stormwind, raising his voice to be sure that Alduin could hear
him clearly, "let it be known to all that I hold Torgath doubly honorable, and call
him friend.  I have fought countless times for gold and glory; I can only admire a man
who fights for love."

Twilight nudged J'layah and whispered, none too softly, "As if he'd never done the
same, himself.  Sometimes my swordbrother strives too hard to maintain his image.
Torgath has made a friend, it seems.  I pity his enemies, for now Balefire will
consider them his foes, as well."

Pointedly ignoring Twilight's stage whispered comments, Balefire looked around at the
surrounding members of the party, noting their lengthening shadows, and said, "The sun
sinks near to the horizon, and dusk will be upon us soon.  Night falls quickly in the
desert, and while I am loath to leave this oasis where the Art may be used, I would
fain advance closer to the citadel before full dark forces us to camp.  Distances in
the desert can be deceiving, but I fear that citadel may best be attempted by day, and
I do not think it reachable, even for a reconnaisance, while light lasts this day.
Shall we move out?"