[lathspell]

When the five Istari came over the seas, Saruman was greatest of their order and demanded leadership, although Galadriel advised Gandalf to be leader and Cirdan aleady gave Narya to Gandalf, because he forsaw great danger for him in the future. But Saruman became the leader and studied the lore of elven-rings and especially the Great Rings and the One Ring. It didn't even take that long before he made plans of getting the Ring himself, but when he asked Gandalf to rule ME with him, his plans were reveiled and it was known that he had fallen to evil. Gandalf was imprisoned but escaped with the help of Gwaihir Windlord. After his 'death' by the balrog, he was sent back to achieve his quest. He was more powerful and cast out Saruman from their order, and became leader of the White Council.

Why they wanted a leader I do not know, but I think it was only for good order (or Saruman was corrupted already when he came over the seas and wanted leadership as a cover-up). And the White Council are the five Istari, and the Wise are (I believe): Elrond, Galadriel, Gandalf, Saruman and Radagast. Maybe Cirdan was one of them as well, but I don't think so.

I hope this is enough of information and that it doesn't make it more difficult to understand. [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img]
greetings, lathspell