1.   Despite assertions of calm and promises of a new order, not even Russian soldiers venture out of their foxholes unless ordered to do so.

2.   Few soldiers ventured into the open, though the alliance took another casualty when its own mortar fire struck too close to its own troops.

3.   Soldiers did not venture out alone after dark.

4.   The region is dominated by ethnic Pashtuns, so when Northern Alliance soldiers venture into these areas, they do so as strangers.

5.   Soldiers ventured into Serb-laid minefields, carefully bringing back explosives.

6.   Simmering conflict has slowed commercial traffic and even soldiers rarely venture outside their barracks after sunset.