So, armed with the rightful king's blessing and her resolve as solid as the mountain they descended from, Shadow led the merry group through the wild moors. Guiding them along hidden trails, dodging troublesome orc packs, and hoping the elves would give them a warm welcome when they arrived... whenever that was.

After some time, they found the secret passage that Shadow was looking for. She slipped down, turning around to observe the descending dwarves and the trailing Gandalf. After everyone made their way down, she squeezed past them into a narrow gully, the others, including the rather unlucky Bilbo, having to press themselves against the cold mountain stone to get through.

After everyone fumbled and tumbled through the tight squeeze, they emerged from the other side, panting and rumpled. Shadow drew a deep breath, filling her lungs with the fresh, crisp air. A satisfied smile curved her lips.

"Finally, I present to you, the Hidden Valley of Imladris... or as it's better known, Rivendell," she proclaimed, bowing her head in reverence. "Welcome to the last homely house."

Thorin huffed and turned to Shadow, his tone bristling with suspicion. "So, this was your plan all along... to take shelter with the enemy?"

Tipping her head considerately, Shadow met his glare with calm sincerity. "Well, yes, I did plan to find refuge in this valley, but not with an enemy. The only ill-will you'd find here is what you bring with you."

She then raised her gaze to the beautiful valley spread out ahead of them, a small smile playing on her lips. "Anyway, can't really see anyone in this pretty valley wanting a dwarf's head on a spike, can you?" With that quip, she gracefully descended the path, crossing a bridge, and entering the elven abode.

A dark-haired elf descended a flight of stairs to meet them. "My lady, how may we assist you?" he greeted, his voice smooth as liquid silver.

Ah, that must be Lord Elrond's major domo. "Ah, I see. I'm Shadow," she returned the formal head bow, her purple eyes twinkling in the evening sun, "We're here for refuge." She stepped aside, with Gandalf taking over the conversation.

In the meanwhile, Shadow sidled up to Bilbo, patting the little hobbit's back friendly, "Pretty things these elves carve, huh?" she simpers, making Bilbo blush wordlessly.

He gathered his courage then, facing Shadow. "Pardon me.... but where... if you don't mind me asking... where are you from?"

Shadow flashed Bilbo a cryptic smile. "A land far, far away, young Bilbo," she hinted, her attention momentarily ensnared by the towering buildings around them. Her reply was interrupted by the clatter of hooves against stone as a group of elves rode in regally, their magnificent horses instantly arresting everyone's attention.

A black stallion amidst them caught her eye. "Sabre," she whispered merely loud enough for a curious Bilbo to catch.

"Huh?" He looked at her questioningly, but she didn't reply. Instead, her gaze remained glued onto the horse.

As soon as Lord Elrond dismounted, the black stallion trotted over towards Shadow. He nuzzled his head against her chest, letting out a contented whinny. "Hey, old friend," she murmured affectionately, stroking his forehead.

Lord Elrond joined them, his gaze oscillating between Shadow and Sabre. "You're familiar with him?" He raised an intrigued brow.

Shadow nodded at the elf lord while continuing to stroke Sabre affectionately. "You've been a good boy to your master, haven't you?" she whispered gently into Sabre's ear. The stallion responded by neighing softly and prancing on his hooves, much to the surprise of Bilbo who swiftly stepped back to avoid being trampled.

Shadow chuckled lightly, "Well, you're eager! You'll figure out why I am back around these parts soon enough, my friend." She turned her attention back to Elrond, her tone reverent. "My Lord, as radiant as ever, I see."

Elrond flashed her a warm smile, "As are you, my lady. But, if I may, what brings you here?"

Shadow chuckled lightly, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, someone has to steer these wandering dwarves right, and if not old Greyhame here, then who?" she teased, her voice carrying a friendly lilt. "Although, he did tend to lose his way now and then."

Gandalf's eyes narrowed in feigned annoyance. "Now, now... I'll have you know I've found myself in plenty of adventures and I've always made it back – always!" he huffed in defense. Shadow chuckled again, patting the old wizard's back affectionately.

Leading Sabre towards the stables, an eager young elven servant tried to help corral Sabre, but the stubborn stallion refused to be led. Shadow had to intervene and calm him, with her friends watching with a mix of amusement & awe.

And then, as quickly as a gust of wind, she was off, the thundering footfalls of the black beast echoed behind her.