Part 3/9:
This friendship thrived well before the awakening of the Balrog, during a happier time when elves and dwarves were on amicable terms. As Gandalf noted when the Fellowship faced the gates of Durin, “Here ends the road of the Elves.” The symbol of the rowan tree was planted here by the elves to mark the end of their domain, as the West Gate was intended primarily for their use, facilitating trade with the lords of Moria.