[Mithalwen]

"I have foresworn the straight way into the west. I will remain ."
"But he is mortal," - "And so I have become,"

These words sliced into Mithalwen's heart like a knife and she closed her mind, pulling shutters of steel across the window of her soul. Why had she stayed in this place - everyone seemed to remind her of that which she had so long tried to forget. How could the elf have become mortal - that was a gift only to those whose hearts were servants of some greater destiny? Long she had believed a long widowhood and separation beyond the world's ending was the fate of those of lesser significance who wed with mortals. She struggled to prevent any trace of her thoughts escaping.

"Lindon is fair" she said simply allowing her mind to wander the safer paths of the green land between the Sea and the Blue Mountains. "My home is in Mithlond like most of the elves who there remain, but as a child I spent much time on the coast - my mother's family lived in a small community there. But the war put the end to that.

The havens are a good place for me to practise my craft and Cirdan is a just and wise lord who administers his authority lightly, but dwelling there may bring grief if the Belegaer is a reminder of separation. Or so I find it. That is the reason for my journey inland. When a ship sails it brings many memories; so I must leave the sea, that I love at all other times, for a while and let my soul find peace as I journey under beechwoods. Also Imladris is still a refuge though Elrond has left it and there I will go for a time". Mithalwen took up her cup again hoping somehow that the hot liquid might steady the turmoil she felt inside.