Speak Again

fanfiction by Wild Iris

Balance

We stood above the lake of fire, and I saw the reason that had brought us there blown out.

Was it desire or vengeance most that masked your eyes? I think they had become as one to you. Too late I understood that ring and sword had moulded to your familiar hand.

You would take what you wanted, for you deemed your loss and your necessity greater than ours. And I could not prevent you, for the power of action was already yours. And I scarce had strength to draw more words and see them break against your heart.

– "Isildur!"