An elf will feel two unmistakable and unyielding yearnings in his life; travel to Imladris, the Last Homely House, and travel to Mithlond, the Grey Havens and its passage to the Blessed Realm. My yearning for Imladris has awoke, and I cannot deny nor defer it.
It did not help matters that Gerbil was asking for research I knew could only be found in Elrond's library. We agreed to meet at the Bird and Baby Tavern to hand off a wrapped parcel of notes and references. The outer wrapper was waxed paper to shed water; these hobbits think of everything!
The ride to The Last Bridge was without event, as I had been patrolling this area for some time in the Rangers' service. Oh even the flies, and not like the kind found in the Midgewater March or the Shire! I got across the ford, but was forced to turn back. The bear-kind I summoned to help with the battle wouldn't even speak to me for a fortnight.
As I was between missions, it seemed best to heed Strider's call and return to the Prancing Pony. When I got there, he had already left, and according to Butterbur, with several hobbits in tow. But while Strider was not available, down the hall was waiting for me something, or rather someone, I had never seen before. Mithrandir, the Grey Pilgrim, had a mission, and he was not taking "no" for an answer. With a flash and smell of brimstone lingering in the nostrils, I found myself in what men call Rivendell. Mithrandir's magic must be quite strong, as the package was still in my bag and the wax seal had not even melted!
With whom I spoke and for what purpose I can not write, not even discuss in person among our priviledged few. All I may share is that there is a Quest in progress whose outcome will change the very history of the Third Age of Middle Earth for every race! And...if that quest is successful, the Rose and QUill Order will be guaranteed a purpose and place in the world for the rest of our natural lives.
Elrond's librarian found the references Gerbil was looking for, and included in the package a particular Sindarin script they knew would further her studies. After inspecting her care package, I knew the question would come up (again!) as to when she would be able to make the journey and join the Scholar's Guild. I told her that unless she was willing to travel every league at a stealth walk, not any time soon.
Before we could leave the Bird and Baby, a Quick Post messenger arrived with an unmistakable Ranger seal on the envelope. Whatever it was, it could wait until at least one night of rest and reflection.
The next day after my first, and my second hobbit breakfast, I began packing the horse bags for a journey to the North Downs. Word of my orc scalp count from around Amon Sul had reached the Ranger Headquarters. I was asked to meet with some of the senior leadership in an undisclosed location. The message only said a representative would meet me in Trestlebridge and lead me to the site. Before I could leave, another Quick Post courier arrived, this letter being sealed by Elrond's mark. In it I found a Writ of Safe Passage to Imlandris. Whatever magic Elrond still wields, it can include safe harbor travel for select elven-kin. But such gifts do not come for free, and I am sure there will be tasks asked of me before my next visit.
