Birin halted the company for some time, reluctant to proceed or to stay. He sent scouts ahead into the forest, and there was a prolonged wait for their return. The interval seemed endless, and some began to fear that the soldiers had been waylaid. But they returned eventually, leading their mounts at a slow walk, and watching either side of the road intently.
‘What have you seen?’ Birin asked them as they drew near.
‘Naught but a large lake, some distance off,’ one of them replied. ‘But voices we heard while travelling through this wood; perhaps those of Sylphids high above us, and Periani in the undergrowth.’
Birin considered this news thoughtfully. At last, he said, ‘The Sylphids are of little concern to us. But the Periani are another matter.’
‘They followed us closely,’ the scout who had spoken said, ‘and we heard anger in their voices. But would they attack so large a number?’
‘Whether or no,’ Birin replied tightly, ‘it is a chance we have no choice but to take. How far is this lake, and are there suitable grounds for making camp?’
‘If we move swiftly and without stealth, an hour, perhaps. Little more,’ the scout replied.