Faorie stared upwards at the dark sky. The canopies of Lothlorien glowed naturally - the lamps, lanterns, and crystal ropes glistened with soft light. Light breezes brushed against the two elves and the rustle of rolling leaves created a proper atmosphere for their discussion. "You have encountered a significant amount of key events in our kind's history," she said gently with a faint smile on her face, "I have only read of these tales from books of lore found in libraries throughout Rivendell and Lothlorien. It is an experience in and of itself."
Anarwe stood still, occasionally finding himself staring at the clear pool before them. The fountain added to the atmosphere with its constant flow of rushing water. "Imladris has been my home for over an age. I have had enough of war and battle and lost lives... many of our people no longer feel this is our place and many more took the long road for Mithlond harbor to take the white ships into the West. I would have done the same, I have no doubt about it...
Faorie slowly turned her head to watch Anarwe.
His face was like stone. "Though I can never return there." He reached down to his feet and picked up his helm that sat on the grass beside him.
"My mother," Faorie began, "she sailed to Eldamar not long ago... she is there with my grandfather now. They await my arrival, though I have no intention of sailing West for many lifetimes of men." She remembers the scene clearly... how her mother had requested that Faorie sail with her. To at least be beside her mother again after so many years of uncertainty to her whereabouts. The time had come for her to leave Middle Earth, and neither of them wished to be seperated from the other again. She had been given a day to consider this, and without uttering a word about the decision to anyone, she returned to her mother and bade her farewell, for they will meet again someday... She returned her mind to the present and shook off her memory for the time being. Smiling faintly, she spoke, "May your stay in Imladris continue to bring you peace."
"I wish it were so, though I do find it peaceful to walk through this kingdom of yours."
Faorie smiled gently, nodding slowly as she turned towards the fountain. "I had found that my visits became more and more infrequent with time. My duties lie in Imladris with Lord Elrond and the Warband." She bit her lip. "Though...
"At times when granted permission by Hiril Elisbeth, I travel here to rejuvenate myself, for it is one of the few places in Arda that truly brings me peace." She inhales slowly, half closing her eyes.
Anarwe grabs hi cloak and draws closer to the pool. He sat himself down on the grass, crossing his legs and leaning his arms on his knees. He seemed as if he were beginning a session of meditation.
Faorie relaxed herself from her thoughts moments ago. "How long do you intend on remaining here in the Golden Woods?"
"Have the Galadhrim become wary of an exiled Noldorin?" he responded.
Faorie furrowed her brow slightly. "Not that I am aware of Anarwe. Not specifically one." She looked at him.
He was silent for a moment, but did not take long for him to speak again, "If they will have me, then I shall stay for a while."
Faorie smiled down at Anarwe.
"I do not wish to brave the pass over the Misty Mountains."
Faorie opened her mouth to speak when she felt the sting of intense light on her eye. She looked to her side and saw rays of sunlight shining through the hanging canopies. Morning had come without her even realizing it. She turned her head back to Anarwe suddenly."Very well," she said. "Anarwe, forgive me, for dawn approaches and my duties in Imladris will soon come to my attention. I must begin my journey back to the vale."
Anarwe stood up. "I sure hope my bitter story did not spoil your evening, warrior." He turned to face her, hinting at a smile.
"Of course not," she replied, "for it is a priveledge to have the opportunity to meet one who can speak of the past with such honest sorrow."
"If you decide to leave for Mithlond, do let me know."
Faorie smiled politely and nodded once. "I will send word if ever that time comes."
"I shall come to see your departure."
"You wish to walk with me to the gates?"
"I shall. The hour is late and I do not wish to keep you from your long journey." He held his hand before him. "Lead the way, warrior."
Faorie smiled gently and began to lead the way towards the gates of Caras Galadhon.
The two had spoken shortly of Faorie's fondess for her home, had taken a short tour through gardens where Faorie introduced Lady Galadriel's famous basin, and found herself late for her departure where she bade farewell early to Anarwe, followed by her running to the gates.
END
