Vanimorén sat alone in the forest near Imladris. He was often found here, for it was only when he was alone among the trees that his mind could really focus. But his mind could find no rest. Something was different, there were discontented thoughts clouding his mind, and he felt restless. He leapt lightly to his feet, and turned in the direction of the house of Elrond. Something was amiss. He began to move swiftly through the trees, feeling the tension in the very trees. When at last he reached the great hose, it was in uproar. Elves were hurrying here and there, and if ever there had been a sense of tension in the forest, it was doubled, even tripled here. Vanimorén got the impression that he was the only one yet to hear of some great tragedy, for all seemed to be moving with a sense of purpose, as if they all had something to do, somewhere to be. In fact, he had never realised there were quite so many elves in Rivendell. He was hesitant to step forward and interrupt anyone, for everyone seemed very busy, so he stood and watched for a while.
Well, I brought it on myself he thought, if I had been here rather than wandering in the woods, I should know what is going on, and there would be no problem.
Finally, in desperation, he stepped forward to ask of the nearest elf what news had been brought that so many should react in such a way.
“Forgive me,” he began to the first elf who paid any heed to him, “but what may I ask is happening. I have just returned from the woods, and I feel that I am missing something.” He felt embarrassed that he should be asking such a question, but he was obviously not going to find the answer by standing and watching, gormless as any passing orc. He smiled nervously, but the other didn’t return it.
“We have received news from the party that was travelling with Celebrian to Lothlorién. Nenmir has returned, and he has returned with the news that Celebrian has been captured by the orcs. She is said to be still alive, and counsil is being held as to what should be done about the matter.” The elf then turned to go about his own business. Vanimorén stood, wondering. Orcs. They say the orcs dwell in Moria. It has been many years since I journeyed there, or even looked upon the land of Eregion. Although I deny it, I know in my heart I would greatly love to see those places again. However the lady Celebrian is not used to such darkness, and now the orcs are there I doubt if Moria is beautiful any longer. Every moment spent in that dark cavern must be torture for her. Then, after a short pause he called after the elf,
“Pray tell me, where is this council to be held?” He asked. Having been pointed in the right direction, he followed the path until he saw before him the circular council-place that the elf had described to him. Others were already sat, and he wasted no time in joining them, although he did wonder if the council was to be selective. Maybe he wasn’t welcome. But he was here now, and that’s what mattered. If Elrond wished to send him away, then that would be as it would.
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