Matters in Mirkwood were far worse than they appeared even on the surface. While Elrond had hardly been present to observe its darkening in its entirety, he had visited with enough frequency to know that it had changed drastically since its time known as the Greenwood. The long memories of Elves being what they were, there were many who still staunchly spoke of this Silvan stronghold as the Greenwood - Elrond had been among them, though he wondered if perhaps it was now time to accept the mirk for what it had become.

The trip in had been relatively uneventful, but for some wonderful discourse with a young captain of Mirkwood's guard. Tauriel was a refreshing young elleth and he did hope that his sons would have the opportunity to spend time with her, as he felt the three would get along rather well. He had, of course, noted the thick webs that coated the branches above them, and had taken to inquiring about the state of the spiders here. What he learned was most certainly troublesome - though finding a way to offer Thranduil aid in the matter without offending anyone's sense of pride and sensibility would be an interesting affair.

The initial meeting had been typical of these sort of trips. Mainly spent on discussion amongst the elders and ambassadors that had little to do with anything important. Rather like the ents they were all so fond of, elf-lords did not rush into anything and the renewal of treaties rarely took up any real time or effort, unless one wished to propose a change or clause, which would of course extend matters for at least a week.

The first day, however, was generally dedicated to introducing new faces and reconnecting with old. This of course would have led to two very bored twins, so Elrond had seen fit to have them excused from today; both Elladan and Elrohir were off adventuring through Thranduil's halls now, and he could only hope that would end well for all. Young Legolas had been in attendance however, and had seemed quite eager and pleased to be there - for the first few hours. It had been well hidden, but Elrond was very attuned to that glazed look on young faces, and had felt some manner of pity for the child stuck amongst the elders.

Sighing, Elrond removed his ceremonial outer robe with care and set it aside before taking a seat in his room and rubbing the bridge of his nose a bit. It was going to be a long and trying stay, though of course he would hardly let it on to anyone. At least Trenardir had been on something resembling good behavior today - though that was always a time sensitive matter. Sooner, rather than later -

A knock came at his door, interrupting his thoughts. Rising to his feet, Elrond called for whomever it was to enter, even as he made his way toward the door, unaware that the very subject of his thoughts was about to barge in upon him.

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OOC: Let me know if you need anything changed.