Two of the characters of the epic Maldene cannot be told of separately, for they run together much like Mutt and Jeff of the comics of old. An odd team, they are part beloved characters and part comic relief.

Blag-ak is a large ogre with a vocabulary that only allows him to utter about four words at a time. Simple minded but loyal, he acts directly and could not comprehend subterfuge if it bit him. Party of his “clothing” involves a string of old heads and skulls from past kills, but these are for more than mere ornamentation, though the teling of their exact function right now would spoil the story.

Quickfoot is a short hobbit-like creature with a long braid of hair down his back. A quick little thief fond of collecting knives, and apparently even fonder of getting into trouble. He soon finds a refuge on his big friend, often by climbing up to perch on the ogre;s shoulder, there to advise Blag-ak during their travels and in battle. A far safer place for Quickfoot while the ogre gains the advantage of a more nimble mind to help aim his efforts.

So just how much trouble can this pair get into? Read the book to find out.