The Elvenking's strong displeasure with the dwarves stemmed from their disrespectful and disruptive actions within his woodland realm, demonstrating a clear disregard for his authority and the tranquility of his forest.
Specifically, the primary reasons for the Elvenking's anger included:
- Unauthorized Entry: The dwarves ventured into his territory without seeking or obtaining any form of permission. This act of trespassing directly challenged the Elvenking's sovereignty and the established boundaries of his kingdom.
- Repeated Disturbances in the Forest: They repeatedly caused trouble and unrest within the king's forest. The dwarves' activities were so disruptive that they "three times pursued and troubled the king's forest," indicating a persistent pattern of behavior that violated the peace of the elven lands.
- Agitating Forest Creatures: Their noisy and chaotic presence, described as "riot and clamour," was significant enough to rouse and disturb the spiders inhabiting the forest. Such agitation of the natural inhabitants could be seen as a direct threat to the delicate balance and security of the Elvenking's domain.
These combined actions represented a significant affront to the Elvenking's rule and the sanctity of his woodland realm, leading to his decision to imprison the dwarves.