The heroes return from their initial investigations at the Proving Grounds.

In the Old Market area of Tuhal, they meet Deru and Tara O'Boine at their little farm. Connecting with the O'Boines, they share their story thus far of missing warriors and the difficulties of the Proving Grounds. Deru, being on a scheduled hiatus from the Proving Grounds understands the shape of their concern, but doesn't know the content of it, and after accepting them in his house, he goes forth to investigate the problems they raise, as they stay and entertain current gossip and reover with his lady wife, Tara.