Birdie let out an unintentioned gag-and-giggle at the same time, then froze into her best tree-like imitation, hoping no one had heard.
"Badger musk!" she thought, "If only all wars were fought that way on Middle Earth. Oh, that smell! It's making my eyes water!"
Then she saw the robed, white-bearded Man pick up a lighted brand from the fire and advance upon the hooded specter. He hurled the brand, and she watched in horror as the cloak surrounding the figure turned to smoke and licking flames. Things were getting serious again.
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