[Nuranar]

"Pardon my asking, but do any of you have any speculations as to what may be causing these disturbances? Some sole force must be behind all of this, Orcs are not very independent and Trolls are far too feebleminded for well thought out attacks."

Tarondo was studying the map over Veryadan's shoulder when Silrûth spoke. He spoke answered without looking up. "That is precisely what we are here to discover. The King ordered us to find out the source of the trouble and take what action we can." The Elf straighted up and smiled at the others. "We can sit up all comparing the intelligence and abilities of Men, Orcs, Trolls, and Elves," he said, "but I am weary, if no one else is. We need to learn exactly what happened during these attacks before there is value in speculation."

"I will tell Butterbur that we want to hear the stories," Thoronmir volunteered.

"He will have plenty to tell himself," laughed Luinien. "Beware!"

"He will tell others also," said Veryadan. "More will come forward; everyone loves to spread news of disaster. And we can find survivors, too. Their accounts will be most useful."

"If there are any," Alaksoron said gloomily.

Tarondo shot him a glance, then nodded and went on. "Very well, I think that is sufficient for tonight. And" - he halted them for a moment - "do not reveal that we are sent by the King, unless it is unavoidable. I do not see any good that would come of that information spreading throughout the countryside." After the companions agreed, they dispersed to rest for the remainder of the night.