The afternoon passes, and then another four days, so quickly that Haleth can barely keep track of them. There is much to do, but Caranthir and his people turn their hands to the work, particularly hunting. With their horses and ability to go further afield for game and supplies, they ensure the Haladin are well provisioned for the harsh winter remaining. Most of Haleth's people are inclined to be grateful to their visitors, even to like them, for all their once-wariness of the Firstborn.

Haleth is busy, as she ever is. But somehow Caranthir fits himself into her life, waiting whenever she is occupied, or assisting her in whatever task is to hand. Never does he seek to usurp her authority, or even to question it.

Every day they talk. Every day Haleth finds there is more she wishes to talk about. It is only two days before she realizes it is already natural to her to discuss things with Caranthir, to share ideas and thoughts, that from now on it will feel strange to keep them to herself.

She is not altogether sure she likes that change. So when word comes to Caranthir that he is needed, that there are emissaries from one of his brothers approaching his lands and he must return, her feelings are mixed.

But depart he must, and in the morning. So she asks him to walk once more with her, after moonrise, once his people are prepared for their departure at dawn.