We reach the Gate of Kings, and the end of my journey, too, looms before me. There is no turning from the course.

The river speeds us on our way, for which I am grateful. Soon this land of indecision will be past, the doubts of fateful Lorien left behind.

I have made my bargain. I will save the White City, keep faith with my father and return hope to Gondor. So the oath of the Hurionath will be fulfilled, to our loss and lowering – “until the king return.”

A sigh escapes my gritted teeth.

Soon I will be home.