A Promise Lives Within You by Himring

Egalmoth had argued in council against Earendil’s setting sail again this time, with well-reasoned arguments, but when he saw that Earendil was determined, he said no more on the subject. Now Earendil had not laid eyes on him for days.

‘I fear I have angered Egalmoth,’ he said to Galdor. ‘There are so few lords of Gondolin left, it sits ill with me that I should depart against the will of one of them, and yet I must.’

‘His heart is troubled at your leaving,’ answered Galdor, ‘He did not wish to speak words of ill omen. Thus, he has preferred to remain silent. But be assured he bears you no grudge.’

Earendil wished he could be sure of this. He cast off, and still there had been no sign of Egalmoth. But as the ship moved slowly out of the harbour, they saw Egalmoth stand tall on a promontory. He wore his blue cloak from the old days in Gondolin, now much patched and missing most of its crystal ornaments, and as they drew near, he sang a song of farewell and hope:

May it be as darkness falls,

your faith will still guide you true.

May it be you will find your way,

where strange stars shine on you.

You sail a lonely path,

so far away from home.

May it be at your prayer

the Night fly away.

May it be your voyage on

that will light our day.

Follow your dream to the rainbow.

When the storm has been and gone,

we may yet see the sun.

Chapter End Notes

I think most people will recognize a major inspiration for Egalmoth's song (and also the title)? May It Be, by Enya, was the tolkienshortfanworks prompt.

No bluebirds, sorry (the original idea did contain them), but there are references to a rainbow and a dream. (And Egalmoth is the leader of the House of the Heavenly Arch!)

Leave a Comment