Pause (Drabble)

Life held its breath. The trees leaved, the flowers bloomed and the young came anyway. But, sentient life? It knew. It had happened once before: the waiting.

Wardens watched the borders. Nothing had changed in that for almost three millennia. Yet, it was different. A subtle scent on the air, like a thought, that brushed the hairs on the back of the neck.

Haldir felt it. It was stronger to the east. It threatened everything he had gained: family, peace, happiness. His awareness was mirrored in those around him.

Peace continued, but for how much longer? And, what of after?