2. Sparky, Crumb, and doing the smaller jobs

2. Sparky, Crumb, and doing the smaller jobs The Boggers give Dorothy's group another way to handle trouble. They aren't bringing Glinda's knowledge of magic or Thorne's reputation as a warrior, but the journey still needs people who can help an injured companion, take part in a rescue, and recognize an opening when a guard makes a mistake. After Glinda is hurt, Sparky goes with the Tin Woodsman to get her to the Emerald City. Thorne and other Boggers attempt to rescue Dorothy and the Scarecrow. That split gives the supporting characters actual responsibilities. Somebody has to look after the person who can no longer look after herself, while somebody else goes after the captives. The rescue effort also puts Boggers in danger themselves. They become prisoners, and later the witches' forces are prepared to kill them. Having a lighter presence in the group doesn't protect them from what is happening around them. Crumb gets a particularly practical moment during the final conflict. He draws a guard close enough to strike him with his head, creating an opening that helps the prisoners get free. It is a small-scale piece of the larger battle, but freedom has to start somewhere. The people tied up beside an army can't simply wait for the main magical confrontation to sort everything out. That gives these companions a place beyond comic relief. They can be funny and still be useful. They can need rescuing and still contribute to their own escape. The original adventure gives them room for both.