"Safety in numbers, also," he agrees. "And one may know the way back to the farm better than the other."

At the house, some of the crew are carrying various things away, with Helga supervising, such as cooking supplies and blankets and pelts. Helga herself has packed her own things, warm clothes and a satchel filled with healing herbs and ointments.

"It looks as if we'll soon be able to leave. Is there anything else that needs taking care of?"