The Elves next days were filled with continuous mourning and celebration. Glorfindel, Elrond's friend and military advisor, had been trying to keep up with the obvious "impassive" attitude Elrond was constantly displaying.
The sun was beginning to show just over the rolling hills and horizon, depicting a painted picture, of various colors, across the sky. The numbered days to the asylum, Imladris, were few.
The remaining Elves were just beginning to pack up camp, just as Elrond walked back to the encampment, from within the forest.
Glorfindel sighed in half relief and half anger upset over Elrond's earlier disappearance. Walking over blankly to his horse, Elrond checked the saddle and other necessities, before mounting listlessly.
Glorfindel noticed Elrond's dark curls were messily pulled back from his ashen face. Faint rings of black lined the elf lord's eyes, and constant glances made Glorfindel suspect that Elrond's hidden emotion was nervousness.
Something plagued his friend.
This worried Glorfindel more than he cared to admit. Besides, the golden haired advisor was getting tired of Elrond's jumpy moods, "casual" glances, and sleepless nights.
They had well trained guards on duty, didn't that help?
Glorfindel walked over to the beautiful chestnut mare whose head was held high in noble pride. Its coat glistened, in the young sun's light, indicating it had been recently brushed. The chestnut mare held his master on his back proudly, but at the same time, could sense the elf lord's high level of anxiety.
"Milord Elrond."
"No formalities Glorfindel. This I beg upon you." Elrond said firmly. He sat somewhat slouched upon his horse, but it took the keenest eye to tell.
"Something ails you Elrond mellon-nin...and it is beginning to rub off on me." Glorfindel replied with ill concealed frustration.
"Nothing is the matter," Lord Elrond said sharply, "Glorfindel," he snapped, in irritation, his brow furrowing," I am tired of your constant pestering. You act as if I am as helpless as a child!"
"You haven't eaten in days Elrond! And from the way you look now it is obvious you haven't slept either. You act like a helpless child that requires assistance!"
"Do not utter another word to me Glorfindel, for I wish not to hear you speak till we reach Imladris." Elrond snapped.