Daeron sat cross-legged on a low stool in the library, hunched over a large book written in flowing, Noldorin letters. It was a book about the Teleri across the sea. He had hoped to find some tale he could put into rhyme, but was beginning to think it was not such a good idea. It was best to leave tales of that strange land to those who had seen it. He would never really understand it.

"Daeron!" came an unmistakable voice. Daeron looked up, startled.

"Lúthien!" he replied. Lúthien's fair face was filled with fear and urgency. "What's wrong?" he asked.

"I need to speak with you." She glanced about. "Are we alone?"

"Yes," Daeron answered. "I'm afraid reading has never been very popular in this land. People say it's too impersonal."

"Good," said Lúthien distractedly looking about. Then, when she was convinced that they were indeed alone, she whispered, "I need your help. Something terrible has happened. Beren has been captured by the enemy."

"So he really did attempt to steal a Silmaril then?" Daeron whispered back, though he was not really sure why they were whispering.

"What? Of course he did."

"Well, that was admirable of him," replied Daeron, setting aside his book. "I'm sorry, this must be very hard for you. If there's anything I can do to help you through this difficult time -"

"I need you to help me rescue him," Lúthien interrupted.

Daeron paused. He had been expecting her to ask for a song, or a shoulder to cry on. Storming a fortress of the enemy was not really the kind of help he had been offering.

"Lúthien, I know this must be hard for you, but please, do not throw your life away over this," Daeron urged. "There is no need to add to the tragedy of this situation."

"He is there because of me, because he loved me. I cannot simply let him die."

"There are others who love you too, just as much as Beren."

"Others, like you?" Lúthien asked.

"Yes," Daeron answered.

"Beren was willing go to the heart of Angband because he loved me. Are you willing to do that as well?"

"I will not help you to get yourself killed!" exclaimed. Lúthien looked about in alarm.

"Please, speak more softly," Lúthien urged. "If my father hears of my plans, he will try to stop me. But you would not be helping me to get myself killed. I will be going with or without your help. But, I would be safer with your help. Do you care for my safety?"

Dread filled Daeron's heart. "Please, Lúthien, do not do this. Stay here, where it is safe."

"My mind is made up. I will be going to Tol-in-Gaurhoth to rescue Beren. Will you help me?"

Daeron hesitated. Then he looked down and sighed. "Meet me at the north entrance at dawn."

Lúthien smiled, "You will help me then?"

"I would do anything to protect you," Daeron answered.