"But...when?"
"Spring," Mallenhadh said. "We should arrive in early summer. Then we sail."
Lathrandir looked away.
"Oh, for..." Mallenhadh took a deep breath, then let it out slowly. When she spoke again her voice was low and even.
"Lathrandir, you cannot do this. It is foolish."
He turned back, jaw tight.
"Many stayed behind. Many will stay behind. And I did not say I would stay."
"No, but you will put off deciding until the last moment, as you always do." She gave a small smile. "I would not see you left behind, only to change your mind after it is too late."
"I know." He sighed and took a seat beside her on the grass. "You know...I would like to go. But I don't want to leave...not yet."
"You are hardly alone in that."
"No, but it is not the same and you know it." He sighed. "I have walked these lands for less than six yen. For some, they are finally returning to a place of beauty and peace. Others have seen their fill here, and are ready to see the wonders of the western shores." He turned, his brow creased, his voice low.
"Mallenhadh, I was born when our time here was already ending. Everyone told me there would be time, because for them, there had been. Now there isn't and I don't know..." He broke off and stared up at the twilit sky.
"Lucky for you," she said, her voice dry, "I am older and wiser. If you desire my council, I am prepared to give it."
He sighed, then chuckled. "Very well, let's hear it."
"Your time among Men was good for you," she said. "It finally impressed upon you the shortness of time, the fleeting nature--in the end--of all things in Middle Earth. Why stop now? Why not go out again, and see as much of this world as you can--while there is time?"
He nodded. "You're right. I suppose...I suppose there's still time."
She made a dubious noise. "Not at the rate you generally get about, there's not."
