Gandalf's expression changed. He asked, "You mean Saruman knows about the Council of Rivendell, and he'll stop us?"
Andrew nodded. "Definitely. With Saruman's power, he can cast spells remotely from the Tower and unleash Thunderbolt attacks on the Misty Mountains. We'd be in real danger then."
"From what I know of Saruman, he'll only stop us from passing through the Misty Mountains. He won't forcefully kill us; the cost would be too great."
Gandalf said, "He'll drive us into Moria and deal with us there."
Gloin asked, "Gandalf, I don't understand. Why would Saruman drive us into Moria? Moria is Dwarf territory. What would he gain from sending us in there?"
Gandalf glanced at Gloin but did not answer. Andrew said, "Gandalf, I know what you're worried about, but don't forget, you still have us."
Gandalf's eyes lit up. With Smaug's strength, even if he could not defeat the Balrog, he could still hold it back. Not to mention the unfathomable Éomer. He said, "Fine. We'll go to Moria."
"That's great! My cousin Balin will definitely give everyone a warm welcome."
Gloin said excitedly. Boromir glanced at Gandalf, his expression somewhat grim. Gandalf had always refused to go to Moria, so there had to be some problem inside. Yet he would rather go to Moria than Gondor. That showed just how deeply wary he was of Boromir.
Boromir cursed inwardly, Damn it. I do want to take the One Ring, but I never planned to harm any of you.
After that, the group set out for Moria. If Andrew flew, they could arrive in a few hours, but traveling by horseback would take several days.
During that time, Ganahta became thoroughly acquainted with the four Hobbits—the very thorough kind. It could not be helped. The Hobbits were excellent cooks, and