[Mithadan]

Elladan nodded with approval at Angóre's analysis. "We cannot risk the Redhorn Pass. We might fall into the same trap as that which captured my mother. Even were this not so, it is clear the pass is watched. Our only hope is in stealth; we cannot risk being spied."

He thought for a moment more, then continued. "As for the Hollin Gate, those few of our people who have passed that way have reported that where the gate once was there is only a blank rock wall. It is the way of the Dwarves to conceal doorways with craft and artifice. To open the gate would require a key or a password perhaps and we have neither. No, for better or worse our path leads to the east. We must enter Moria through its main gate or seek another entrance from that direction. So our path is decided for us; we will take the High Pass and travel south on the east side of the Misty Mountains."

Elrond responded to Torfithien's query. "I do not doubt that Galadriel would provide us with such help as we might request. Yet to stop at Lorien would but cause more delay. And even if she were to offer us a hundred archers it would be to no avail except to turn the attention of the Orcs to our people and prevent their entry into Moria. We will proceed with our small party as planned."

Elrond and his sons looked about the room awaiting other questions or suggestions...