"You must judge me harshly. For leaving Maitimo to his fate"

"No, cousin, I don't. Not anymore. When we first arrived here yes, but I realize now that things are different from what I once thought. The power of the Noldor lies in our united strength, and I see now that we cannot risk losing all for the sake of one." A silent understanding passed between them.

"Will you stay with us, Fingon? We have rooms to spare."

"No, but thank you, Maglor. I'll return to my father's house this night."

"Will you take a guard, at least? The passage between our camps isn't always safe."

"No, I will be safe enough alone." He stood to leave.

The king sat silent for a moment, then finally spoke. "Fingon, just promise me you will not do anything rash? Please? I would grieve to lose you as well."

A sad smile parted the boy's lips. "Of course not, cousin. I promise you I won't. I will see you again soon."

"Goodnight, then, Kano. Safe travels."

Fingon left the King's quarters, thinking on the seeds of lies he'd just sown.

"I'm sorry, Maglor." He thought as he departed. "I must go to him."