However, the flat seriousness registers with Curufin. He understands losses. "What. . . or whom. . . did you lose?" he asks.

He smiles a little. "I wouldn't doubt you're a pillar of the community," he says, though he has heard the sarcasm. "Red Team does appreciate members who are dedicated to the team's goals." He has no way of knowing whether Murphy evinces any such dedication, but somehow Murphy looks formidable enough to be a fighter. "If those people who care about you are all in your world, then it might pay to cultivate some friendly relationships on the train."