[Novnarwen]

Tanroth was one of the last elves to awake the following morning. After the long evening with songs and tales, it felt odd to get up this early. However, it was better to get going now, than wait until it got mid-day. At that time, they would be exhausted again, before they had started walking.

The fog surrounded them, and laid its’ arms thickly around the group. He rose, rubbing his eyes before he could see clearly. The Elf settled down by the fire, letting the fire warm him. Firiel served breakfast, and urged them all to eat as much as they could; a long a rough road was ahead of them, they would certainly need it.

Tanroth ate as quickly as possible. He was already a bit embarrassed by the thought of him being the ‘leader’, and in addition to this: the one being late. However, he packed as quickly he could, and with the help from the others, they were ready to set out for a new day.

“I think we’ll reach the Mountains sometimes between mid-day and afternoon if we walk in a good pace. The fog though, concerns me. However, make sure that we stick together.”

With these simple words the group of Elves gathered around, putting out the fire, and then leaving as little traces after them as possible. Firiel, Rostion and Tanroth took the lead, but had Erkaliel, Arilewen behind them. “Did you enjoy your sleep,” Tanroth asked Rostion. The elf looked at him in surprise, before they broke into laughter. “The sleep I had was pretty enjoyable,” Tanroth said, having a tune of sarcasm in his voice. Firiel slowed down, having Arilewen and Erkaliel to catch up with her.

*******

The morning started to grow old, when they heard the Silverlode River. Its’ dripping was heard far off. The long river, which they were to follow, would later lead on to Kazad-Dûm. Tanroth had at first started wondering whether the River had 'moved'. But then, he realised that they were only approaching the river. Still, a few miles lay in front of them before they could enjoy its' cold water.

After a few hours walking, Tanroth decided it was best to have a break. He had felt tenseness between the elves in the group. It was if they were all very sceptic, just like him. He tried to hide it though. Somehow it felt like there was something coming. The fog was thick, and seemed never to let go of them, besides there was something bothering them, or at least him. What lay ahead, he was unsure of. And his worry about not reaching the ship was also growing on his mind. The Lady herself had told him that they didn't have much time. By this thought, he panicked, and urged everyone to pack up as soon as possible. "No time to lose?" he announced, taking steady steps away from the little resting spot.

Firiel caught up with him, looking very suspiciously at him. "What was all that about?"

Tanroth didn't reply, he just made a grimace, telling the group to set speed again.