The Man opened his eyes. Before him was an Elf, tall and golden. He was holding a harp.

There was wonder in the Man’s face. "Art thou a god?" he breathed.

The breath caught in the Elf’s throat. "Nay, nay! A friend only."

"But thou art so beautiful."

A brief laugh, quickly cut off. "Thine eyes are too kind."

"Not so! Thou’rt a vision. And visions thou hast conjured. Thy music is lovely, it has moved me to tears," and indeed there were tears flowing from the Man’s eyes.

"Nay, nay!" the Elf repeated, hastily. "Do not cry! I will play something happier."

The Man shook his head. "Play what thou wilt, it is beautiful. I felt as though I were walking in a dream." Doubt stole onto his face. "Do I dream still?"

"Thou art awake, I promise! I had not meant to transport thee so."

The Man hummed. "Mine eyes are heavy still. Wilt thou be here when I wake?"

"Of course; how could I leave? Only please, do not sleep just yet. There is so much I wish to ask thee!"

The Man chuckled. "An odd sort of god, who is so curious."

"I am no god, as I said - merely an Elf - and I have never met anyone else like thee."

"Nobody? I am flattered." The Man’s eyes softened in wonder again. "Thou art light made flesh! Art sure I do not dream?"

"I am sure."

"And thou wilt be here when I awake from slumber? My people have journeyed far. I am weary!"

"Of course. I can hardly leave now! Thou holdest me fast."

"Very well. I trust thee! How could the author of such beautiful music speak false?"

"I would not speak false," said the Elf softly. "Not to thee. Thou art a wonder."

The Man chuckled. "I have not heard that before! But I thank thee." His eyes drifted closed.

"Why must thou sleep?" said the Elf. "Please, let us speak awhile yet!"

"I am weary," said the Man. "But stay by me. Leave not! Anon we shall have converse again."

"I will not leave," said the Elf.

The Man smiled; then his face relaxed into sleep.

And Nóm guarded the sleep of Balan’s folk till they arose in the light of dawn, playing a song of the stars.

And Finrod guarded the last sleep of Bëor, playing a song of the stars, till dawn came and it was time to prepare the body for burial.