"Rootbark," says Gronput. "I like it. It's a good name for a scholar. Trolls, of course, must deserve their names. I'm called Gronput because..."

  Then the old troll's snout twitches and his lips retract again, as if he smells carrion. He looks around, but there are only ruins. Crows suddenly take flight and rise, cawing, before disappearing into the eastern hills. "Did you see anything in this woods, Pon Para?" the troll asks. His expression is vague and unfocused.

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  There are many strange things in this forest. Gronput is thinking about something in particular, but you don't know what.