"An admirable endeavor," Galadriel replied in a tone that was so even as to seem nearly dismissive. She disliked it and her soft smile held an apology as she glanced from Ellana to the fire. With a heavy sigh, Galadriel abandoned her posture and leaned forward. Her hands braced her knees and, in hunching, inelegant as it was, she found some relaxation.

"I am uncertain," Galadriel admitted. "This place has worn on me in unexpected ways; I cannot seem to catch my breath nor find any ease. It is...tiresome."

Unfortunately, staring into the fire was difficult and watching the dancing flames only made her eyelids all the heavier. She closed her eyes briefly, then, and drew partly from her slouch. When she opened them, the motion was slow.

"But there are those who suffer far more urgently than I," she added gradually. "I should not indulge in complaining as I do."