Vanimorén remained quiet as discussions of paths and the help of Lorien flew around. All conversation washed over him, he was oblivious to everything, at least for that moment. Calm had been restored, and no longer did any of the elves feel the need to shout, but instead everything felt almost too calm. He almost felt like standing and shouting at everyone, asking if none of them cared, but he knew to well. This was the elven way. They were all probably feeling the same way as he, but were more restrained, and could remain serene and untroubled. In fact, now all Vanimorén’s concentration was focused on staying calm.
After a while, his mind began to turn to more important issues, those that were already being discussed for the part, but also the issue of light. The lights Elrond had given them should be of much help, but Vanimorén doubted whether any light could truly pierce that darkness. He did not voice these doubts though, for it seemed that this would be an unnecessary concern at such a time. In truth, the aspects of the conversation that most interested him were those of the route they were to take. And indeed how they were to enter Moria. He listened intently as Angóre spoke, first of the pass over the mountain, which would lead them through Hollin. The elf seemed to answer himself, and soon conversation passed on, but Vanimorén’s thoughts lingered in Hollin. Perhaps that was the way they should take. But perhaps his heart only said that out of longing. He sat, brooding over this, waiting for someone to notice and call upon him for being the most useless member of the council having put forward nothing of any use to anyone, and sitting, thinking about personal desires at a time when all should be selfless.
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