<b>As they followed Persus into the tower, Allassiel took note of the layout. Orthanc. That's what it reminds me of. The thought crossed her mind, leaving her with a sense of unease. It'd been the stronghold of Saruman during the war, the place in which he'd finally been cast from the Order of Wizards – at least that had been the news that had traveled back to Mirkwood. Gandalf had visited upon Saruman the ultimate insult and broken his staff. <br/>
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But she also reminded herself that the tower had not always been a place of evil. It had actually been built by the Dunedain to house one of the seven palantiri. That one she'd never seen herself, though she'd visited the tower with a contingent of elves when it was new.  <br/>
She tucked her observations back in her mind as they arrived at a large, well-lit room and were introduced to Balazor. She inclined her head to him as introductions were made before sitting and listening to the two wizards speak. The conversation seemed strange to her. Wizards die here? Were they not Maian like Gandalf and the other great wizards? Gandalf, after all, had appeared old even when Hir Elrond was young. She glanced over at Pegawen, who's expression was one of confusion as she mouthed something – probably some dusty bit of lore she'd read somewhere, Allassiel thought, shaking her head. Still, it was clear that her cousin was as confused as she was.</b><br/><br/>“<b>Timberlane speaks of being surprised that you still live.” Pegawen spoke up after Persus left to prepare a light meal. “But, where we are from, it is wizards who are the oldest of us, they do not die. How is it that you do?”</b><br/><br/><b>Allassiel nodded at the question and turned to the two wizards, awaiting their reply.</b>