The journey from Echad Andestel to Caras Galadhon seemed to take no time at all. Nimrandir walked quickly behind Fairlain, saying nothing but wearing a confused look on his face as he passed rills and trees that he normally would have lingered by.
"Why must you leave us?" he asked. "Do you not like it here?"
Fairlain slowed her pace somewhat so that she would walk in step with the elf, but she made no show of stopping.
"I love it here...it...it is like a dream I once had. I love the woodlands and the creatures and..."
"And?" asked Nimrandir.
"I will miss it."
Fairlain quickened her pace, nearly making the elf at her side break into a trot in order to keep up with her.
"What will the Lady say? Surely you would not grieve her by going, if she wishes you to stay?"
Fairlain looked up as the lights began to glimmer and shine in the highest Talans of Caras Galadhon.
"She will understand, if anyone will..."
The White Lady said nothing, but looked calmly into Fairlain's eyes and smiled. After a moment, Fairlain spoke.
"My lady...I am sorry...."
"The time has come for you to leave this place," Galadriel said gently.
Fairlain fell silent and nodded her head, lowering her eyes like an abashed child.
"Do not look so, young one. This is not the last time we shall see you, and did I not say that my kin will ever find welcome in this place? I know what is in your mind...and you must go swiftly. But go with my blessing and know that the light of the Valar also goes with you. Let it guide your path. The strength you have gained here is needed in the world and the light that is kindled in you must burn through the dark places. Do not tarry...we shall see each other again before the end. Á na marië...Alámenë."
As Fairlain rode past the borders of Thinglad, she noticed Nimrandir standing by one of the Mallorns that yet stood in this no man's land between Lothlorien and Rohan, his figure dwindling and becoming smaller as she rode once again into the world of men.
