[ElentariGreenleaf]

"Greetings dwarves," said Elentari. "What brings you to Mirkwood?"

Gráin and Vráin introduced themselves, and stated their business in Mirkwood. They noted that there was already a dwarf with the elf, and that some more elves and two humans were stepping forward out of the trees.

"Gráin and Vráin, you have found the elf you look for. I am Elentari, leader of the quest to the Blue Mountains. This other dwarf you see is Nalin, who is helping me guide this quest. The elves you see are Merenwen, Selvren, Lostlondwen, Callo and Alcyávëiel. The two of the race of Man are Ewinda and Rowan. We are honoured to have you with us, Gráin and Vráin, for come with s you must if you wish to defeat the dragon."

"It is we who should be honoured to accompany you, killer of Shelob," said Gráin.

"Then let us continue, for we must find shelter before dark."
~~~~~~~~
It was three days after the great storm that the company came to the border of Mirkwood forest. Elentari held up a hand for silence. Quiet spread like wildfire, as the companions were eager to her the Elf.

"A must admit, that my knowledge of these mountains was poor until a looked at a map I was given by the King. We will follow the Old Forest road, as we have been doing, as cross the Misty Mountains by the High Pass."

"A wise choice, Lady Elf," said Nalin.

Callo now held up a hand for quiet. "Someone approaches. Two I believe."

Sure enough, two male dwarves walked down the road toward them. One of the dwarves was obviously young, as he had no beard.

"Hail, dwarves. Do you seek our help?" Callo was the first to speak.

"Nay, Master Elf. We seek Elentari the Spider Slayer," replied the older dwarf.

"I am she," replied Elentari. "Then may I presume you wish to join our quest?"

"That is true." Now the beardless dwarf spoke. "I am Farin, and this is Oin Woodenbrace. It would bring us great joy to join your quest."

"Then join us!" said Elentari, her heart full of joy. Now there were twelve, Elentari included.

It took the company till dusk to reach the Old Ford. There they camped for the night.