'You went with the dwarves on their expedition to the Anvil? I suppose I should not be surprised, ${PLAYER}! That place has been both blessing and curse to the dwarves that seek their fortune in the Ered Mithrin. It was a blessing for the years it remained sealed, trapping many dangers behind its frozen surface, and that was the case for most of its history. I say it was a curse for the periods when it thawed, setting loose those evils upon the mountains. What did you encounter within?'

You describe the events of Hórin's expedition to Winterstith and the great perils you faced there. When you have finished Gandalf strokes his beard, deep in thought.

'It may have been merely good fortune that caused the Herald of Winter to seal herself once more within the glacier, ${PLAYER}, but I see another power at work. At any rate, the Dwarves of the Ered Mithrin have proven fortunate, for once; they need not worry about Hrímil Frost-heart on this day, although a day may come when they must.

'I do not believe Karazgar was truly slain, however. It may be that the Herald of Winter has given the Weeping Warrior his fill of battle, for now, but I have heard whispers from the dwarves of this place that a trail of blood and rust led away from Hrímil's chamber. I am certain Karazgar lives.

'Scouts here at Skarháld might have seen some sign of him. Mudro is to the north-east, on the upper level, and may know of Karazgar's escape. Durin has given to me a chamber in the north-east corner for my use while I stay at Skarháld. I will meet you there after you have learned what you can of Karazgar's location.'

Dolek is to the south-west of Mudro, on the upper level of Skarháld.

Objectives

• Talk to Dolek

Ibor is to the north-west of Dolek, on the upper level of Skarháld.

Objectives

• Talk to Ibor

Gandalf is in the chamber that was prepared for him in the north-east corner of the upper level of Skarháld.

Objectives

• Talk to Gandalf