CHAPTER NINE: OGRE TAG; an INTERLUDE

Palladium Muse
"Jeez. Sounds like you've had a time. All I had to do was deal with a sudden inundation of AHRs (Aggrieved Holiday Relatives) and of course, the three deities of Rugratvia, who seemed to expect a large quantity of offerings from some very large man with a white beard and red clothing...they also had this strange fascination for putting footwear on the walls. Anyway. glad everyone is back in one piece and all. Now, we have the Rod, we're going to destroy the Rod, but it's going to take some time for the correct conjunction of spatial alignments to occur, right?" She asks Raeython, who nods.

"So then, until that happens, what other kind of trouble can we get into?"

pure_ultima
"Hmmmm... I may not be a God, but something happened up there with Malus. He has not been destroyed, far from it. I have fears that he may walk amongst us. If this is correct he will want to kill me, and any of you who have had contact with me. He may even go after the rod. He will seek out power to use for his own purposes. I may have to leave you to seek him out, once we have seen to the rod, of course"

Palladium Muse
"Malus, in mortal form?" PM asks, then takes a deep draught of her tequila. "That doesn't sound good. But why would he want to kill you? And anyone associated with you?"

Ravenwind
Ravenwind blinked, leaning closer, her attention caught. "Malus?" she asked. "Who is this person, and why would he be after you? Has he any cause?"

She set aside her cup, and snagged a pitcher of hot coffee instead, now all business.

Ravenwind
She turned towards the Muse, raising her voice slightly so as to be heard over someone's tall tales and yappy kobold laughter. "And even if we do protect Ultima from this Malus, or track this Malus down and bring him to justice, there are still other issues that we must resolve. Raeython and the other followers of Mielikki gave up a great deal to have me restored; I would wish to see some of that debt eased. . . " she trailed off, seeing Hack run past with an unusual amulet in his hands. 

Torm's handmaiden leaped from her seat and grabbed the orc's arm. Her grasp was firm enough to stop him mid-flight. "Where did you get that?" she asked, her voice sharp. "Do you have any idea what that is?"

Hack blinked up at her, and pointed with his free hand to Quietus, who had just finished telling another story to the kobolds.

Quietus
Ravenwind (politely) asks Hack to bring Quietus over so that she can talk to him.

Hack walks over to Quietus's table.

"So then I said, 'I may be immortal, but that doesn't mean I can't be killed!'"

The kobolds howl with laughter at this tale of cunning and cowardice.

Hack watches Quietus drink some milk, and notices Che approaching from the opposite side. He is just about to defer to his new father-in-law, when he recalls the iron grip of Ravenwind.

Hack: "Quietus, Ravenwind wishes a word with you, when it is convenient."

It is clear that "when it is convenient" means right now.

Quietus: "Sorry about that, guys. I'll be back in a minute."

Quietus approaches Ravenwind and another woman whom he doesn't recognize. He comes hesitantly, as if afraid he has done something wrong.

Ravenwind
Ravenwind nods her thanks to Hack, and gives him a gentle pat on the back to apologize for her earlier rough treatment.

"Quietus, you may not know Palladium Muse, who hails from another world than our fair Toril. Muse is a fighter mage of the Rifts, and had travelled long with us. You already know ultima and Raeython, of course," the rangers nodded to Quietus. 

Quietus found himself rather firmly seated before Ravenwind, between the two rather burly rangers. "I've seen an amulet like the one you gave to Hack and Muriel rather recently--or one that could be a twin to it," Torm's handmaiden continued. "And, seeing all the trouble it gave us, I'd like to rest assured it won't be causing any problems for our friends. What is this amulet, and where did you get it, if I may ask?" 

Quietus
"Pleased to meet you, Ms. Muse."

Quietus realizes it is time to get serious, despite the fact that this makes him feel relatively uncomfortable.

"Let me give you a little background on myself, if that is okay?" 

The people seated around him nod that, yes, that would be fine.

"Strangely enough, like Ms. Muse, I believe that I am also not of this world, although I am not certain of this. On whatever world I came from, I encountered powerful men and women of various factions. Hmmmm. I feel as though I am starting in the middle. Let me backtrack a bit...

“I was a fairly normal individual when I was first growing up. Around the age of 16, however, I began losing consciousness occasionally only to find out that I had gone into a berserk rage. I have my suspicions about why that was the case, but as I seem to have grown out of them, I'd prefer not to share them at this time.

“Due to my abnormal behavior, I left home at age 18 and travelled around the country. For reasons unknown, I am (for lack of a better description) incredibly lucky. I survived by gambling. This way of life continued for about 6 years (I think) when my life took a sudden turn for the worse (better?).

I encountered a mysterious woman named Mara, who did something to me (I don't know what). It is around this time that I think my memory began to deteriorate, although I don't believe she was the primary culprit in my memory loss. I encountered new friends (I'd never had friends before), especially a man named Father Sophocles. I believe he died, although like most things, I can't be sure.

“Events from this period are jumbled, but among the new people I met were young but amoral kids named Lucian and Sara. They were fighting some sort of holy war, and had strange and mysterious powers that I couldn't comprehend. All of my "friends" and companions sided with Lucian. However, I betrayed everyone (except my only real friend, Father Sophocles, who was already dead) and joined with Sara. I think I had some intention of acting as a double-agent, but I'm not sure. Something about her fascinated me.

“Getting back to the amulet... There was a third side in this war, and Mara was a member of this third faction. As it turns out, she was a vampire. Somewhere along the way, I'd fallen in love with her. To be with her forever, I agreed to allow her to transform me. I have a clear memory of this (although as you'll note, I am clearly not one of the undead). Shortly thereafter, my friends entered her she owned a casino) and destroyed her, despite my best attempts to preserve her.
 I went somewhat crazy after this and my "allies" somehow managed to constrain me.

“Despite what I have just told you, it was sometime after this event that I met with Mara again. I had come to warn her that my companions sought her death. I professed my love again, and she sent me away (to protect me?) She also gave me the amulet that is now in the possession of Hack and Muriel. It is the only possession of hers that I had retained.

“Shortly after this, my final meeting with Mara, the final battle appeared to be coming to a head. It seemed as though Sara's faction was going to win out, although it was still uncertain. The world seemed to be deteriorating in some fashion. I have almost no memory of this period of time. 

I appeared in the woods hundreds of miles from here. I had very few possessions with me. All of my money was gone, but I still possessed the amulet, as well as two other items of some power. One allows me to turn invisible (sometimes). The other slants the laws of probability further in my favor.

“One power that the amulet possesses, is the ability to give one pleasant dreams. What other powers it possessed I do not know.

“As you'll note, my spear is really quite primitive. There is, in fact, no metal spearhead attached. I believe I carry it due to some deep-seated, possibly irrational fear of vampires.

“I do not know how long I have been on this world. I seem to be nearly immortal, a gift from my friend Vlad  (who I believe was some sort of druid/ranger/spirit?) I possess several other gifts that seem to be unusual on this world. I do not fully understand how I do the things that I do.

“I'm not certain if this has answered your questions. Feel free to ask me anything, and I will try to answer it if I can."

Quietus sits back for a second and takes a drink from his glass of milk, waiting to see if there are any questions.

B_FH
A new face emerges from the crowd that has now gathered around the table. This man seemed a rough scoundrel though he had a soothing, unnatural look behind his eyes. "Good story, I don't have much of one myself. Though here's what there is to tell. I lived in a large and powerful kingdom for a long time since I was a little baby. Magic was strictly banned due to a mage crisis a few years back, though I learned it when I was alone in my room. As I grew I was taught the ways of fighting. 

“My father, the king, was very wise and had many enemies. When he died I was to inherit the throne. Well after many years, when I was about 18, one of our enemies gathered up an army and took our kingdom by storm. My father and I and a few of his most loyal guards were the only people to escape their icy arrows and enchanted swords.

“We spent the next two years on the road as adventurers. One day we were in a clearing and arrows hit my father's guards and friends, killing them. We were approached by the man who took our kingdom, and two of his guards. I decided it was now to finally use my spells. My father was stunned when I cast the spell, for he had no idea I could cast magic. I took out two of our enemy's before being heavily wounded. While I was down on the ground unable to help, I watched as he killed my father. He then left, but not before telling me that he didn't need to hurt me any more. He'd taken my entire life from me. My inheritance, my future, and my family. One day I will find him, and every last drop of blood on HIS hands, will be repaid.

"You seem a valiant warrior Quietus, will you join me in my quest for revenge?"

He looks at Quietus and awaits an answer.
Figaro
Takes a much needed break from guard duty and strolls over to the small crowd gathering.

Hummm sounds interesting..

Ravenwind
Ravenwind acknowledged the tales told by the mysterious B_FH (how should she pronounce that, she wondered) and Quietus with a nod. Suddenly realizing that she had urgent business elsewhere, she excused herself from the group, and made her way outside, going to the temple of Torm. Her sisters also said their farewells and departed.

At the temple, many heads turned as she strode in. Many had heard of her resurrection, and she gathered from the expressions on many faces that not all were entirely pleased. No other servant of Torm had lived after carrying the shield of Arness; some cleric made gestures against blasphemy as she passed them. 

Entering the prelate's office, she found herself warmly greeted by Father Dreosan. "What brings you here today, my child?"

"I have been considering giving up the sword, Father," she replied, having a seat.

He looked taken aback. "Child, there is not one other knight in the Order of the Hand of Torm more uniquely suited for the duties you have always had. Why would you seek the change?"

She shook her head, troubled. "Now that I have been returned to life, Father, I cannot help but feel that Torm may have different tasks for me now than before. Perhaps I should become a simple priestess instead of running around, cracking skulls."

He remained silent, steepling his fingers before him. "I know that you are humble, daughter, and that returning to the position of novice would not offend you. However, such a change must be thought on, long and carefully." He stood. "Let us see if you could truly tolerate the limits of a new status, my child." He pulled an iron-shod stave from a hidden compartment in the wall. "For the nonce, you must give up your sword and all weapons that may cut or draw blood."

She removed her sword belt, and handed the sheathed Kaltseax to him, accepting the pilgrim's staff from him in return. "Think of yourself as a pilgrim, in search of knowledge--knowledge of yourself," he directed. "You may wear whatever armor you deem fit in your journeys. Meditate often, and return when you have come to a decision."

She bowed her head in acceptance and left, returning to The Rusty Sword sometime later.

Quietus
Quietus makes some noncommittal parting comments to all of those gathered around the table. He picks up all of his empty glasses of milk and initiates a short conversation with one of Che's daughters.

She shakes her head briefly and makes a gesture. Quietus walks over to one of the orcs. Shortly thereafter, he begins carrying dishes back into the kitchen.

Ravenwind
Ravenwind leaned her staff in a corner, and grabbed a broom--her usual contribution to keeping the tavern tidy. All of Che's daughters looked quite tired, and all were still wearing their finery as well, so she really didn't mind lending them a hand until her companions could come to some sort of consensus about what they should do next.

Quietus
Being somewhat inclined towards laziness, as soon as Quietus finishes bringing all of the dishes into the kitchen, he excuses himself and goes to talk to Che.  Che is busy rummaging through his closets, outfitting himself in his finest war/travelling gear and generally annoying his family and servants who are trying to clean up after the wedding.  Quietus pauses briefly and hesitantly speaks, "Sir Che, if you have a moment, I would love to hear your proposition... or if it isn't a good time, I can wait until later..."

Ravenwind
Ravenwind wasn't entirely sure what to make of B_FH, the new addition to the Rusty Sword regulars. On the one hand, he blithely admitted to being a lawbreaker, but a lawbreaker in a good cause. She rationalized this swiftly, deciding that if he were returned to power in his father's land, he would probably change the laws that he had broken.

"Well, friend B--Bfh," she said with a smile, "I think we need to decide which course to take for the moment.  Most of us need to be flexible about our adventuring for the moment, since we have an appointment to destroy the rod of Zantalya shortly. Which goal could we achieve the most quickly? Tracking down this Malus character? Could he and the man who usurped power from your father be related somehow?" She leaned on her broom, and prodded the Muse's shoulder. "Ah, she seems to have reverted to her Astral form for the moment; her mind is literally elsewhere. We may have to decide on a course of action without her."

Glancing at Figaro, she asked, "Will you be joining us as well, friend ranger? Feel free, if you feel the cause is worthy."

Che
Che notices Quietus returning to the kitchen with an armful of dishes. "Ah lad, put those down. That's a not the work o' an adventurer. Come, talk 'ith this old dwarf."

Motioning Quietus to the side,the two began to talk.

"Well,lad, me's proposition fer ye goes a like this. Me's got still a fight left in me bones, somethin' that a ol' warf must a haggle 'ith. But me's always a find that the besta cure be, to head to battle 'ith sword and isdom afront."

Quietus seemed intrigued with Che's opening. He noticed that the dwarf was more than just a usinessman, but had donned the regalia of a mighty dwarven fighter. Most of Che's armor was odd to all, but did render fear to most. This was a queer dwarf who fought with a rusty sword very effectively, thought Quietus. He continued to listen.

"But even an old dwarf a knows limitations. So to ye, young Quietus, I offer to yers self the opportunity to aid me. Not too a difficult a task, just a make a sure me's don't ferget little things. Me mind a tends to a wander once in a while, and me wives won't a let me go a galavantin' without someone makin' sure me boots are on the right feet."

Quietus seemed impressed with the offer.

"Me's a will pay yer nicely, as Che always a does. And by the way, personally me's thinks that me adventurer friends needs a true grunt along. And if there's one thinga me's knows 'ow to do, that is grunt."

With a boisterous chuckle, Che awaited a reply from Quietus.

Quietus
One of Che's daughters notices Quietus and Che talking and chuckles at the difference in their appearance. 

Che is a short, muscular, hairy, well-armed and armored sort of fellow, while Quietus is tall, skinny (almost gaunt), hairless (except for a sort of funny looking bit of sandy-blonde hair on his head, which seems out of place...he doesn't even have eyebrows or eyelashes...), and is carrying only a primitive spear that looks like a walking stick and no armor.

Not really eavesdropping (she tells herself), she listens to their conversation.

"... Me's a will pay yer nicely, as Che always a does. And by the way, personally me's thinks that me adventurer friends needs a true grunt along. And if there's one thinga me's knows 'ow to do, that is grunt."

Quietus considers the offer for a moment. He thinks to himself: "Hmmmm. I'm currently destitute. The pay sounds good. It doesn't sound too dangerous," (Quietus hasn't heard any of the stories of the difficulties the questors have endured . . . this is how he usually gets roped into adventures!) "and if I'm just along to carry the dwarf's pack, they probably won't expect me to do anything too perilous... Hmmmmmm..."

To Che: "I gratefully accept your offer, Sir Che."

B_FH
"Well, Ravenwind, this rod of yours seems a worthy quest and I'll need to be a little more experienced before we go and avenge my father so lets go and destroy that rod. Then perhaps we could return to my father’s land and retake it. I'm sure there will be more than enough gold in the castle's vault to compensate for your losses. I'm not sure of this person you think to be my father's killer though if he is I'm sure we'll find him at my father's former abode. For now I'm off to the nearest arms merchant; my blade had more dents in it then in a slain dragon's hide."

Che
"Good, good, Quietus. And there be no callin' me sir. As me's always says, me name is Che, but me friends a call me Che."

With a broad smile from the dwarf the two shake hands.

"Now, where did me a put me helm?"

Noticing the armament atop of the dwarf fighter's own head, Quietus ponders upon his first task.

Quietus
"If it's not too much to ask, Si... ummm ... Che, could I have a loner of a lightweight crossbow . . . preferably something with a loading mechanism... I'll pay you back when I get the chance... I prefer to attack from afar if possible. However, there will be no need for a helmet like that fine one you have on my head. I eschew armor in favor of greater mobility."

Che
Che motions to Slash to come over.

"Take Quietus downstairs to me stores o' weaponry. Equip him 'ith the crossbow o' his choice...(whispering)...but not the old one."

The orc grabs the frail arm of Quietus, pulling a double take to see if he had actually grabbed anything at all, and led him down to the cellar.

Che adjusted his helm. "Hmmm. I knew it was there .....I think."

Ravenwind
Ravenwind looked at him strangely. "Ah, B--," she began, "the people who currently hold and protect the Rod in preparation for its destruction will only allow those of us who quested for it to be present at its destruction, I'm sure. . . "

Suddenly realizing that an ominous quiet had come over the tavern, a quiet only broken by the sound of voices coming from the kitchen, she excused herself and made her way there.

Seeing Che in full armor was rather more than Torm's handmaiden could handle at this point in a long evening. She giggled, and slapped both hands over her mouth, mortified. Clearing her throat, she asked, "Where are the two of you off to, then? And would you be needing any other help?"

Quietus
Quietus follows Slash downstairs. "So, friend, how did you enjoy the wedding?"

Slash responds with a voice so guttural, that Quietus is unsure whether he even spoke the common tongue.

"That's just great. Say, that's a fine looking crossbow...ow."

In his zeal to enforce Che's orders, Slash slaps Quietus's hand away from the old crossbow. 

"Rahrrre. Sorry. You not take that bow."

Quietus rummages around the cellar, being careful not to get too near the old crossbow. Eventually he finds a lightweight bow with a loading mechanism that fits him perfectly. 

"I just wish those danged quarrels weren't so heavy. Oh well."

He returns upstairs and thanks Che for the use of the fine bow.

Che
"Och. And what yer be gigglin' at there, dearie?" Che expressed as he looked around the kitchen to see the humor that Ravenwind found. "Haven't ye seen such a fine tandem o' aged wisdom and strength followed by youthful exuberance before?"

Quietus clicked his heels and stood at attention with Che. 

"Me's and a Quietus a wish to a stretch our legs o' bit in the adventurin' meadow. Where that land o' grazin' be, we not a know. But of a course ye be with us Ravenwind or we 'ith a ye. The last a time ye did
 venture, was a close call. Me's belly a still aches a wee bit over that one. But the more bodies we's a 'ave to cover each others backs, the better. Don'ts yers agree?" 

Ravenwind
"Oh, I would never disagree with such a sentiment, my friend," Ravenwind replied. "Give me but a moment to get changed out of my wedding finery, and into something more suitable for questing, and I would be happy to accompany you both on your venture--whatever it is."

Darting upstairs, she quickly changed out of her blue velvet ensemble, and into an old set of leathers an chainmail. Not even remotely magical, it was the last set she had left, other than her ceremonial armor, which was rather too heavy for every day wear. Upon returning back downstairs, she hefted the quarterstaff she'd been given, and asked them, "Shall we go, then?"

Quietus
Quietus, who has no other clothes other than his wedding "finery,” is somewhat disappointed that Ravenwind has changed! 

Buying into his role as a servant, Quietus hefts a small pack filled with food, his puny crossbow, and his walking stick/spear and responds, "Yes, ma'am. Perhaps Che would like to say goodbye to his family? Do you need any help carrying that pack?"

Che
Che does bid a mild farewell to his family. Each of his six wives received a grand dwarven hug and short kiss. His eight unmarried daughters wished their father a safe journey. His brother, Tho assured that he would keep an eye on the tavern and relay any important information to anyone of concern.

"Aye, well that a does it 'ere fer now. Quietus, take this bag o' holdin' from me, and don't a look into it. Me's got some odds and ends in there that are more odd than a end."

Quietus, nods to the command, but was unresponsive to Che's humour.

"Maybe it a be a good idea fer ya to tie that a bag to yerself. Don't want a strong wind a pickin' yers up and blowin' yer away."

A small smile graced Quietus' face as he knotted the bag to his belt strap.

As the three of them proceeded across the tavern floor towards the exit. Che grabbed the arm of Ravenwind, "Yers don't think that a we'll be ridin' horses, does ye? Yers knows that 'orses are just big 'amsters in disguise."

Quietus
Quietus straps the bag of holding onto his back in order to carry it more easily (his 5 quarrels are stored in his own duffel bag). 

"So, what are you carrying in this thing, Che? Weights? Rocks? Phew!"

Quietus makes exaggerated groaning sounds as he staggers out of the tavern.

"Hmmmm. Horses sound good to me. Riding is certainly better than walking. Unfortunately, I don't seem to currently be in possession of a horse/hamster..."

Ravenwind
With a tolerant smile for Quietus' antics, Ravenwind takes a pack from him and tosses it over her own shoulder. "Che, if you don't want to be riding horses, that's fine. I'm more than happy to walk."

Che began to beam with joy.

"However," she added, going on relentlessly, "if the goal of your quest is far from here, or if we are under a time constraint, we might have to have a mage pop us there, or chose to ride."

Che's face grew longer and more morose as she spoke. "Eyuh, lassie, there be days when you're no fun a'tall."

B_FH
"Ya' know I get the feeling I've been left behind on purpose." B_FH says to his frog familiar that he currently has in his palm. "Where should I go to find you when you're done?" He shouts from behind as they leave.

Che
Che turns back to the tavern and eyes B_FH. "Huh, who's that loiterin' in front o' me tavern?" Che turns back and approaches, "Wha' ye be doin' out 'ere, the weddin' be over. Unless ye be fancyin' a courtin' one o' me other daughter's. But nay upon that, me's no can afford another weddin' at this a time. Well...... a speaks up laddie. Saaaaaay, yers be the one 'ith that a funny name that me's can't pronounce. Humph, yers looks strong......and a willin' me's sees in yer eyes. This is good. Very good."

Che motions to Ravenwind and Quietus to approach.

Quietus
"You're the boss, Che. Should we head back to the tavern and drink some more milk? Or should we head out? I'm willing to go with as many (or as few) fellow travellers as you wish."

Che
"Well, just as a soon as Bufheh,Bphhh, BbbFrh, just as soon as B answers, me's maybe thought we'd a go fer a quick romp o'er to Hack's land. Me son-in-law informs me that a band o' squattin' ogres be harborin' themselves by the creek. One o' them bein' a mage o' sorts. Maraudin' ogres be somethin' we all can test the waters 'ith."

Quietus' eyes widened at the first indication of ogres. 

"Tis also be somethin' new to see Ravenwind wield a quarterstaff instead of a sword."

Quietus
"Well, if it's just taking out the wizard, I'm your man. Nothing I like better than a battle where there is only one enemy, and I have the element of surprise. I'm not much for pitched battles, though. Perhaps Ravenwind or Bufu will be of more use there."

pure_ultima
Ultima was still sitting in the tavern when Bob the Kobold leapt up onto the splintered bar-top.

"Hey, aren’t your companions leaving the tavern?"

"Ah yes, we must go, quickly"

Ultima whipped around and followed the rest of the questors out. He turned at the door and yelled for Raeython and Palladium Muse to come.

Ravenwind
Ravenwind leaned the quarterstaff on her shoulder and waited patiently. "The staff is, as you might say, Che, in the nature of a test," she replied, not especially worried that her explanation explained nothing. She gently touched the pendant that hung at her throat, which was a mailed hand, worked in silver. The symbol of Torm.

Che
Che saw that the group of adventurers was gathering. "Well let's head over to Hack's farm and a rid his land o' the ogres. Somethin' o' a post wedding gift to the wedded couple."

The assembly began the short trek to the farm. Snow fell lightly that morning blanketing the entire area with a powdery covering of white. Quietus was wishing that he had dressed a little more warmly as it was quite cold, but it should be only a short travel according to Che. A warm glass of milk couldn't be too far off in the future.

As the group approached the farmhouses, Che was complimented by others on the fine main house addition that he had commissioned. "Aye, me thanks yer fer the kind words, but to be tellin' no lies, the barn that a Hack constructed be one fine mass o' wood. As sturdy as a dwarf. Ha, ha."

Just past the barn, across an open field, were the waters of a small creek that passed through Hack's land. A small fire could be seen raising smoke amongst the creekside trees.

"Hmmmm. Good, we're a downwind, and me's a smells ogre. Me's thinks me sees at least six o' them, but me eyes kinda get dry in the cold."

Ravenwind
Ravenwind's eyes were not as sharp as an elf's or a dwarf's in the gray morning light, but she agreed with the count. "Che, are we at least going to try to reason with them first?" she asked, rubbing her hands together against the chill. "If you like, I can give it a go. I might have better luck with ogres than with trolls."

Che
"Aye, lass. Me's thoughts exactly. Ogres are the kind that a gets spooked seein' a dwarf in full battle dress. Go figure that one out. But a takes someone with yer to cover yer back. And a circle to the left and come up stream on them. Don't a want them a knowin' the true direction ye be comin' from."

Ravenwind
Ravenwind glanced over her shoulder to see who'd tagged along. Usually, she would have instantly called Raeython forward, as good a man in a fight as any she'd ever seen, or Aivanther, adept at hiding in the shadows and a great defender of those backs he didn't wish to stab. Neither was to be seen at the moment.

Studying those who'd come along, she shrugged. "Any volunteers?"

Ultima pushed Quietus forward. "We need to see how you handle yourself," the young ranger told the thin newcomer.

The pair set off ahead, circling westwards as Che had suggested, before coming upon the ogre encampment.

The ogres crouched around their campfire, looking mulish. A few rather pathetic goblin slaves were serving the ogres their breakfast--a grayish glop that smelled of foul meat. The shortest ogre looked up as they approached. "What you want?" he grunted, relatively clearly.

"I am Ravenwind of Torm," she replied, leaning on her staff. "I'm told that this is not your land. Is this true?"

The ogre--or perhaps half-ogre, since he seemed a bit quicker on the uptake than usual for a full-blooded one--snarled. "Land not belong to anyone. We stay here now, eat animals, not hurting anyone. You go 'way."

"Not exactly a compromising bunch, are they?" Quietus said softly.

"Remarkably philosophical, for an ogre," Ravenwind agreed. Louder, she replied, "This land, and the animals on it, belong to Hack Nyargash and his wife, Muriel. I suggest you make restitution for th eanimals you've eaten, and leave."

"Nyargash?" Suddenly, all the ogres were on their feet. 

"Nyargash, yes. Of the Tribe of the Severed Tongue, I believe," she confirmed, readying her hold on the staff.

"You leave, and bring Hack and Slash back. We talk with them, not anyone else," the apparent leader rumbled.

Ravenwind and Quietus slowly backed away. "What the heck is that all about?" Quietus asked.

Che
Ravenwind and Quietus returned to Che and relayed the ogre's directive.

"Hmmm. Ogres a wantin' to be diplomats, hmph. Well, Slash 'as a nothin' to do at present, but Hack...... well he is a......indisposed me thinks with..... Muriel." Che was trying to relieve his mind of what was happening with the newlyweds. "But maybe a bit o' fresh air a be good fer the orc a present."

Che ordered B_FH to the tavern to fetch Hack and Slash. The young bard/mage ran with all haste. Ravenwind questioned Che if he knew anything about the orcs and the ogres.

"Aye, when me's first took in the orcs under me guidance, twas after their village 'ad been a burnt down by ogres. Amuud, the priest assured me that the hostilities a be over and the orcs presence with a me would bring no danger. But maybe there be somethin' a not a resolved. Me's never questioned about the orcs past, fer it was survival at the time that consumed us most."

B_FH arrived at the tavern and announced to Tho that Hack and Slash must accompany him to the farm as per Che's orders. Tho gathered Slash to the front and B_FH retold of their encounter.

"Uh oh." exclaimed Slash, and he hurried upstairs to the wedding room of Hack and Muriel. The orc tapped softly upon the wooden door which was replied with a loud orcish "Go away!"

Slash continued to pound on the door, when it violently flung open. "What is it?!" screamed a half-dressed Muriel. Slash brushed past the new bride and knelt down beside a panting Hack lying on the bed. "Brother, the ogres be back. Che has them cornered by the waters that run through your farm. He wishes our presence there immediately."

Hack gathered and clothed himself rapidly, and told Muriel that he would return shortly. The two orcs rushed out of the room leaving behind Muriel's frustrated pleas, "But what about........?"

Hack and Slash gathered with B_FH and proceded back to the farm. As the three of them rushed through the snow, Slash questioned B_FH, "You are a bard, aren't you?"

"Yes, one of my many talents."

"Do you know A MidOrcish Night's Dream?"

"Ah, yes I do, but I think this is not the time for merriment."

The three continued.

Quietus
"I have a bad feeling about this. Do you think it is wise to bring both Hack and Slash here? There appear to only be six of them, but, given that one of them is a wizard, perhaps others are hiding in the vicinity, invisible, waiting for us to fall into their trap. Maybe one of us should wait in the barn as surprise reinforcements..."

 (It is possible Quietus's words are motivated by his desire to get back inside. The weather has taken a turn for the worse, and he's getting a bit cold).

Slash, Hack, and B_FH arrive, the bard speaking to the empty air and gesticulating wildly. (The orcs had, apparently been quite convincing).

The two orcs immediately move in the direction of the ogres. Ultima beckons them to wait, so that the questors can be filled in on what is going on.

Che
Hack looked at Slash, and Slash at Hack. Slash calmly spoke, "Wellllll, it does look like Gruk is back with his lackies."

Hack interjected, "...and he probably wants to finish with us."

"Wait, wait," commanded Che, "Who are these ogres? They be friend or foe?"

Slash continued," They be the band, many moons ago that ravaged our village. It was you, Che that saved us from a terrible demise. You all should go and practice your weaponry skills against their hides."

"Wha.. Me's saved nothin' that day. Me's came after the battle and tended yer wounds and took yers away. From what's me's remembers o' that time, if the ogres wished to finish yers off, they would 'ave done so then. Me's thinks that somethin' a be not a told 'ere." The other adventurers nodded in agreement, feeling the truth still needed to be revealed.

Hack reluctantly continued," We... I mean the orcs......used to play a game with the ogres of the hills. A friendly affair at first, the ogres would stalk us amongst the woods in an attempt to catch us, and when they did they won't promptly release us to continue the game. The orcs would lay harmless traps to humiliate the ogres, so we would enjoy some sort of reward in the contest. Was all in good fun."

"But one of my snares," added Slash, "accidentally drew its grasp around the neck of one of the ogres. His companion ran to his aid, but enjoying the merriment I distracted his attention away from his friend, and he chased me instead. The ensnared ogre died shortly after. As dusk approached the evening we orcs were back in our town, beset with fear of retaliation, when the ogres came over the dale. There were many of them. I tried to count the number of torches, but I didn't know what came after nineteen. The orcs panicked and attacked from the buildings armed with simple tools. The ogres hesitated at first, but their shaman began casting spells, which caused both Hack and myself to fall from our perch. When we both awoke, the town was burning and many lay dead. It was then, Che and Amuud arrived and tended the injured. Those ogres here today, must be wanted to still exact their revenge upon our foolish deed of the past. That is why you must attack them."

Che thought tactically for a moment. "Hmph. The ogres did a not attack Ravenwind and Quietus, known friends of yers, and a probably won't if they see more numbers. But you twos should a 'ave a word with these ogres from a yer past. Let's set this up."

Hack and Slash again looked at each other, displaying a not too willing attitude about talking to the ogres. Che asked Ravenwind and pure_ultima to split the troops and head west and east of the ogre camp. The two orcs, Quietus, and himself would approach the camp directly across the field. "Oh before ye go to yer position, B_FH, remember to keeps an eye on the ogre shamon. And a to the rest of ye, raise no arms unless a directed so by Ravenwind, Ultima, or meself.....let's go."

The three contingents approached the ogre camp from their repective directions. About one hundred feet away Che and Quietus stopped, and Hack and Slash continued towards the ogres. Che then told Quietus to walk halfway to the camp and stop. Quietus did so, but reluctantly. He was now positioned between ogres and Che. He thought that he was to look after the dwarf's back not the other way around.

Ravenwind
Ravenwind's face took on faintly stubborn look they all had grown to know too well, and she raised a hand to interpose a comment before they could all split up.

"Hack, Slash," she began gently. "They have not said that they want to kill you. On the contrary, the leader seems relatively intelligent. And you must agree that we should try, once more, to avert this violence. I would not have your new marriage stained with blood, Hack, and I suspect your wife would not want it, either."

Trapped by Ravenwind's sense of justice, Hack and Slash reluctantly agreed.

"I will go to the camp, and try to convince the leader to meet with Hack and Slash midway between the camp and the barn," she said. "I will try to bargain the number of ogres he'll want to bring with him down to no more than two. If words fail, at least their forces will be divided."

Mouths gaping, the others watched as she strode once more across the snowfield to the encampment. They could not hear her words, but they must have been persuasive and lengthy, for after a time, she walked back towards the barn with one short ogre and two taller ones in tow.

Quietus
Quietus kneels down on the cold ground, rubbing his hands together to keep them warm. In his face-to-face meeting with the ogres, he had noticed that the goblins looked extremely nervous and one of the ogres consistently averted eye contact with him and Ravenwind. 

He reaches into Che's bag of holding and withdraws one the quarrels he had stashed there. (It was lighter than carrying them in his own pack). He slowly and carefully loads his crossbow, prepared for the worst.

Despite Che's sense that there would be a peaceful resolution to this conflict, there was something about these particular too-intelligent ogres that caused him to stir uneasily.

Che
Che stood at a fair distance to envelope the sight of the entire situation. A small smile came across his face as he saw Quietus prepare himself with slow deliberate movements. Satisfied with the tactical advantage, the dwarf remained stoic and his expression became blank. As the ogres approached Hack and Slash, Che didn't wish to allow any expression to worry the ogres.

Hack looked back at Che for direction, but was met with a void of guidance. He and his brother were, at the front on this one. So Hack approached the smallest of the ogres and addressed, "My name is Hack, but my friends call me Hack."

Che held back a proud giggle.

"Hack Nyargash, once of the Tribe of the Severed Tongue. This be my brother Slash. Why are you on my land?"

The smallest of the ogres looked around him as if he was counting he dartingly nodded his head with each glance. His final glance returned to Hack. "The woman, she speaks well.........for a woman." The other two ogres laughed as if on cue. Ravenwind's stubborn look quickly changed as she heard the insult, but quickly realized that it was just the ogre's crude humour.

"I Gruk, as I'm sure you remember."

"I remember," answered Hack, while Slash was wondering why there was calmness in Gruk's voice. He remembered the ogre as the loudest one of the groups that chased him.

Gruk leaned to one side to look behind the two orcs. "And who be him, with the bow, shivering in snow?"

Hack looked back and began to reply," Well he's....."

"Silence," commanded Gruk. "Does he have frozen tongue?"

Quietus
"Hmmmm" he thinks, "politeness will probably be meant with derision. Perhaps I should also lead with some sort of insult. Maybe then they will respect me. I don't want to make them angry, though. Well, I'd better come up with something fast."

He slowly approaches the ogres, thinking furiously.

He answers the ogre confidently, "You also speak well... for a runt. My name is Lord Quietus, Master of the North." The ogre appears to be slightly angry at Quietus's words, although Quietus is having a difficult time gauging the ogre's expressions.

Despite already knowing the answer, Quietus continues, "Why is it that you encroach upon land that is so clearly not your own?"

B_FH
B_FH shivers from his location. He can clearly see the negotiations, and though he can't hear the words through the blowing wind he can see things are going well. When Quietus approaches B_FH sees the look on the ogre's face change. He tightens his grip on his new katana and holds back to see how things progress...

Ravenwind
One of the taller ogres, a hulking brute well over ten feet in height, loomed over Quietus, reached out with one meaty paw, and snapped the quarrel as it lay in the slot of the crossbow. Predictably, the string, no longer meeting with resistance, snapped forward and stung the ogre's fingers. He snarled.

Gruk put a restraining hand on his companion's shoulder before he could pound the hapless Quietus into goo. "What we want, is that those who laid traps be punished," he growled out.

"Have they not been punished enough?" Ravenwind asked, managing a diplomatic tone in spite of the insult to her gender. "After all, you did destroy their village in retribution already."

While the ogres attempted to figure out what the multisyllabic words in her sentence meant, Ravenwind lifted her staff free of the ground, unobtrusively getting ready for combat if necessary.

Che
Gruk fumbled with the common tongue in his mind but eventually the words came to his. "Punishment....retribution....no....apology, yes apology."

"We been looking for Hack and Slash for many years now. Not too hard though, for we really forgot our purpose to find them some time ago. But by accident we wander and hunt on this land. The woman said the name Hack. Bring back memories. We now remember why we look for you." Gruk paused before he spoke again and slowly reached under his cloak. "Hack and Slash. You remember the days of the chase?" The two orcs nodded. "Well, an ogre fell on that final day." Hack gulped and glanced quickly to his brother who was looking at the ground. "And we know you involved in that."

Che took a couple slow steps forward pondering the intent in Gruk's voice. This may not be going towards a good conclusion.

"But we ogres never got apology from you orcs."

A surprised and confused Hack replied,"A what?"

"My tongue may not be good. Apology, I think."

Hack and Slash began to stammer out words with the speed of excited children. "We didn't mean to hurt him....Just slow him down.....it was an accident.......the rope was to snare his foot........I was scared........we ran.......we were scared........all were scared.......you came later.........many ogres........lots of ogres..........the town got scared...........it was a mistake........the fire.......... we fell............"

"No, no, no," bellowed Gruk, "That was all forgiven through the priests. The rules. You remember the rules of the chase?"

A glint of recollection shone across Slash’s face. "Yes, the day of a chase would last from dawn to dusk." 

Hack realized the conclusion to Slash's statement, "With no interruptions, no matter what." Gruk began to smile. Hack continued, "And we didn't finish the chase, yes I remember. We're sorry."

With that, Gruk had completed his task but further added, "We still have a couple of hours before this dusk.....?" The ogre then pulled from his cloak a small wooden stick no longer than a ladle. At the end was tied a small fistful of straw. The ogre then tagged Slash on the shoulder and announced, "You be caught...go run for another to catch you." The ogres from the encampment rushed out each carrying their wooden implement in their hands. One of the ogres behind Gruk tagged Ravenwind on the backside while the other rushed past Quietus towards Che.

The fighter dwarf saw an enormous ogre running towards him bearing a little broom. Frozen in disbelief the dwarf just stood silent, as his helm was brushed with the straw, "You be caught.......go run again." It was a massive game of tag with ogres chasing adventurers.

B_FH
All B_FH could see was ogres chasing everyone around down there. B_FH told his familiar to find out what was going on. It hopped down the hill on to Quietus's shoulder. "Master B_FH wishes to know the state of this madness. What is going on?"  

Quietus replies, "It's like a big game of tag until dusk, no one hurts each other but don't let the ogres catch you, and I think we have to catch the ogres as well." The familiar hopped back up to B_FH and delivered the message. 

"Ogres playing...tag?" "Yes, master, that's how Quietus described it" B_FH delivers the news to all his other companions who are hiding in the brush that he's sure they didn't hear the negotiations. Just as he reaches Figaro and PM he keeps moving then B_FH trips. He had stepped in an ogre's snare. 

Che
Che wanted to adventure to stretch his legs but he didn't think that he would actually be stretching his legs. The dwarf ran with a distinct waddle as he attempted to avoid the ogres' broomsticks. He saw the ensnared B_FH struggling to release himself, and ran over to assist.

Che approached the screaming mage and cut him loose with his sword. "Me's never thought me's draw me rusty sword to cut ropes." As B_FH was freed his eyes widened and scampered to cover. Che squatted silently awaiting a thank you when from behind he was tagged by another ogre. "You be tagged again.....you be too fat to run fast he he he."

B_FH
“Thanks, Che, though there's not much I can do for you right now. Though I will try.”

When the ogre walks off B_FH takes out one of the numerous scrolls in his scroll case. This one is Hold Monster. He casts it and the ogre is quickly stunned. He then helps Che up and runs in the opposite direction toward Quietus.

"Strategy?" B_FH quickly asks. 

"Run like rabbits till dusk, I assume." Quietus responds. 

"Suits me, I'm good at that." B_FH is then off in a flash.

Ravenwind
Ravenwind had never been quite so envious of thieves and rangers and their ability to melt into their surroundings before. Once the straw broom slapped into her face, she took off at a dead run, into the barn, where she shrugged off her chainmail shirt. There was no way in any of the Nine Hells that she'd be able to keep up any sort of speed wearing that. She grabbed a handful of straw herself (unused), and darted back out of the barn, keeping a wary eye out for traps, ogres, and everything else.

Unfortunately, what she tripped over wasn't any of those, but a tree root. She smacked her head on the way down, and lay groaning for a moment until she was able to pick herself back up again and get running. "Well, at least this is conditioning for the next adventure," she thought as she huffed and puffed her way up a hill.

pure_ultima
 Ultima was stunned by the sudden onslaught of sticks and straw. He turned to run, but slipped, landing facedown in the mud. He was whacked straight across the back and a deep growl, which Utlima later recognized to be an Ogre's giggle, penetrated his ears. He leapt up and ran towards the forest picking up a tree branch on the way. He melted into the undergrowth and planted a swack to a charging Ogre's leg. He ran on and spotted Ravenwind groaning on the floor.

"Are you ok?" he asked. Bob the kobold made a swipe at Ravenwind’s amulet but his hand was met with Ultima's stick. He leapt back yelping.

Quietus
Quietus sees his companions joining in the spirit of the game. He recalls that he used to know how to have a good time, but on this new world, his suspicions seem to have gotten the better of him. 

Being naturally agile, he is fairly successful at this kind of game. He discreetly gathers up his weapons and runs off to the barn to stow them away in case he needs them later. 

He sees B_FH casting spells, and Ravenwind taking off her armor. He worries that if the ogre's attack, they will be totally unprepared. He knows that he's being too suspicious, but staying alive has always been his most important goal.

Despite himself, he smiles as he sees poor Che trying in vain to avoid the "tags" of the ogres. 

"Perhaps I should try to help my employer out," he thinks.

He finishes reloading his crossbow (which he stows away) and leaves the barn, looking to see if there is any way he can help turn the tide in Che's favor.

B_FH
B_FH doesn't want to waste all his spell scrolls on a game of tag, so instead he pulls out of his pack a white cloak. There was nothing magical about this cloak, not to B_FH's notice. But it was large enough to wrap himself in, and roll down the now snow-covered hill into the ogre encampment unnoticed. He then sneaks into a makeshift tent grabs a few broomsticks and runs up the hill toward the barn.

Inside the barn he finds Quietus. B_FH passes him a broomstick. Suddenly an idea hits B_FH. "Gather everyone one up, especially Che."

Che
Che stumbled as he attempted to run for a safe area, and bumped his head as he fell. In a momentary delusion, he thought he saw an assassin flame Hack's barn. After a quick refreshing smack of snow on the face, the dwarf realized it was just stars spinning in his eyes. As he gained his faculties, he ran towards the barn to join the others, tapping on the door before he entered, just to make sure he wasn't dreaming.

Figaro
Hummm, definitely not what I expected, but when in Suldanessalr... 

Reaches out to tag on of the passing figures, then starts running across the field. Ahhh, looks like the disturbance was handled well. Minimum amount of bloodshed. Mental note: if we have to fight them, take out the shamans first. 

B_FH
Meanwhile back in the story... everyone has just gathered in the barn. Che, Ravenwind and Bob are all trying to hold the door shut as at least two ogres are trying to force it open from the other side.

"Well if I'm going to help at all I'd better hurry." says B_FH. He begins to cast a spell Che, Ravenwind and Bob didn't expect B_FH to cast anything so they loosened their grip on the door. The barn door swung open, revealing four ogres and the ogre shaman. B_FH finishes the incantation, and suddenly everyone feels a tingling at the same time. 

"Don't just stand there, run!" B_FH shouts. All of his companions realize what spell B_FH cast: haste. 

Che
Che felt the tingle go through his dwarven body. Suddenly he felt he had the speed of a youthful dwarf of sixty. Che waddled past the ogres who vainly attempted their sweeping tags. The dwarf was yelling commands to Quietus, "Watch me back, watch me back!"

Figaro
Watches with some amusement as a dwarf starts out-running the chasers. I hope that spell lasts until sundown. (Narrowly avoids getting tagged.) I must pay more attention...

Quietus
With lightning speed, Quietus dashes out of the barn, following several yards behind Che. The ogres futilely attempt to strike the dancing Quietus. The ogre shaman appears disturbed by this use of magic.

"This even score," he roars.

He chants in some foul language, and casts a spell. Suddenly, all of the adventurers (except Che who was out of range) feel the extra speed wear off.

Quietus stumbles as he suddenly is moving slowly again. He just manages to avoid a broom swung toward his head. He continues to follow Che, although now he is the one having a difficult time keeping up.

Che
Che scampered along, creating a mini vortex behind him that lifted a cloudy trail of snow. Assured that he couldn't hear the heavy footsteps behind him, he stopped to rest. As the dwarf regained his breath, he squinted back at the barn which was far in the distance. "Me's never a covered so much ground so quick-like before."

The dwarf noticed that the sun was soon to set and that the shaman ogre appeared from the trees. He was carrying a small tablet and appeared to be tallying numbers.

Figaro
Laughs aloud.  I haven't this much fun since I was I child trying to steal pies from window sills.

B_FH
B_FH and an ogre are still in the barn. B_FH is on one side of the pillar the ogre on the other. The ogre makes a swipe on one side of the pillar and B_FH is on the other. They keep this back and forth going for a while then the ogre gets mad and makes a giant swipe. The pillar is broken and B_FH hear the structure of the barn breaking apart.

The ogre doesn't seem to notice. B_FH quickly casts a temporary spell that will keep the pillar together, only for a time. B_FH then gets tagged by the ogre. "Good chase, you go run again." the ogre grunts. 

"Well, I would if I could but the barn seems to be collapsing.”  The ogre looked confused.  B_FH continued:  “See no more door, and the ceiling is also about six-feet lower." B_FH then notices the seriousness of what he just said.

Che
Outside of the barn, dusk approaches. Che walks back to the barn with Quietus and rejoins the other adventurers and ogres. All have seemed to quit the chase and were looking at the shaman.

Hack explains to Figaro," This is the time that the tallies are made and a winner is declared. A very involved process. Takes the wisdom and intellect of an ogre shaman to count the tics on the tablet properly."

Figaro questions, "What's taking him so long?"

"Must be a large number........something like thirty."

Suddenly a large creak from the barn broke the silent air. The roof of the structure seemed to drop momentarily. Hack screamed,"Noooooooo, not my beautiful barn."

Ravenwind
Ravenwind, who's quite winded from her long afternoon of running, finds within herself the strength to fling herself forward into the barn. Lifting timbers and levering boards out of the way with her staff, she endeavors to free the trapped and panicking animals within. Mendoza and Figaro murmur calming words to the cows and horses, charming them, and lead them outside the wreckage.

A pile of rubble heaves, and the half-ogre shaman announces, "Good game. You win! Better luck for us next time." Other ogres heave themselves out of the wreckage, and make motions to depart.

Ravenwind's innate sense of justice and rising fury lead to her next actions. "Oh, no you don't!" she snapped. The ogres stared at her, taken aback. "You will not just leave, having wrecked the barn that Hack built. You will help to rebuild it."

"Or what?" a twelve-foot brute asked, standing over her and blasting her with his breath.

Holding her ground, and her staff at the ready, she replied, "Or you will face me, and justice."

The ogres paused to mull this over. This could take some time, she saw.

Che
Che began to laugh uncontrollably and shake his head. Quietus looks at the dwarf. "What do you find so funny?"

"The ogres are gonna git it now, ha ha!"

"You mean Ravenwind will fight them?"

"No, no laddie. Look the sun is down, ha ha..........Hack isn't back at the tavern............M...Mur....ha ha.......Muriel will worry and come lookin' fer him. And a when she sees the barn, she'll a grab me sword and really wup the ogres."

Figaro
Looking at the ogres in particular, he said, “Look if we all help out it should take less than an hour, then we can get these animals back into a protected enclosure. Wild animals get soft if they depend too much on livestock.”

pure_ultima
Ultima quickly stumbled back towards the barn. Entering he sees Ravenwind talking to a large ogre in a menacing way. Ultima smiled to himself. He knew what would happen to the ogre. As he sat down upon a pile of hay, the shaman walked in followed by a few other ogres. 

Ravenwind
From behind all of them, a piercing voice started to speak, starting in the lowest rumble a female's voice is capable of, and rapidly escalating into the shrillest soprano imaginable: "WHAT . . . IS. . . GOING ON . . . HERE??!"

Hack took one look over his shoulder, and actually flinched as he blushing bride, now sporting just a hint of five o'clock shadow, stormed down the hills towards them all. Even the ogres seemed taken aback.

"You see her?" Ravenwind whispered to the leader of the ogres. "That's the justice I was talking about." Prudently, she handed Muriel her staff as the young woman stomped into the ruins of her hopes and dreams.

"But, that she is little," one of the slower ogres rumbled. 

Muriel froze him with a nasty stare. "I am a dwaman," she said. "Or, if you prefer, a hwarf. Which means I don't like ogres and other big folk too much, and I've got the worst of both me dad and me mum's temper. So, I want an explanation here."

The leader of the ogres looked helplessly at Hack. "Who she?"

"She's my wife. As of today."

"TODAY? Why you not say today wedding day? Why we not invited? Would have put hunt off to other time. We help fix barn," he hastened to assure the irate Muriel, apologizing to someone literally half his height very, very earnestly. "Hack, your turn to set date of next hunt."

"NEXT hunt?" Muriel screeched. "What do you mean, next hunt?"

“Dear, it is traditional, and I do need to keep in practice so I can teach our little ones how to play, too. . ."

Hack and Muriel started to argue, very loudly, about the chances of the conception of said children, given the fact that he had already "obviously" tired of her charms if he was already gallivanting off playing games with ogres. 

In the meantime, Gruk was counting on his fingers. "Half human, half dwarf, real orc," he muttered. "Means . . ." (long pause) "quarter human, quarter dwarf, half orc. . . what children called?"

B_FH
Everyone decides now is the time to start repairing the barn, before it gets worse. It's collapsing a foot every five minutes. The ogres lift up one part of the barn while the adventurers repair under the part the ogres are holding. In about an hour the entire barn is restored. All the animals are moved back in, and none of them ran away thanks to Figaro's animal charm spells. No one had ever seen such amazing cooperation between ogres and adventurers before.

Figaro
Waves.  “Good luck to you. And don't forget to invite me to the next match!”

Ravenwind
Once the barn was completely rebuilt, the ogres shuffled off into the surrounding woods, somewhat aimlessly. Ravenwind lifted her hands, and blessed the barn, the house, and the land around it in the name of Torm, and protected it from evil. B_FH, scrounging in his spell case, found a particularly potent spell of permanence, and enacted it upon the divine magic of Ravenwind's prayers.

Muriel seized Hack's hand, and dragged him over the threshold of their new home, slamming the door behind her.

"Let's get back to the tavern and leave these two alone, shall we?" Ravenwind suggested to Che, pulling her chainmail back over her head.

The adventurers left, secure in the knowledge that their young friends had long and happy lives ahead of them.

Che
"Aye me's agree, lass. Me's toes are a so cold me's can no feel 'em. Somethin' a wee drop o' tequila would a fix. Besides, tonight tis be the night we welcome in the new year, and the beginning o' Deepwinter."

The group agreed and headed back to the tavern. Che order Slash to run on ahead, and stoke the fireplace, to make sure the bar was warm, and to tell Tho that his batch of tequila in the cellar should be ready for bottling.