[Child of the 7th Age]

Cami had spent most of the afternoon sorting out hobbits and supplies on the Star. She was filtering through the heaps of provisions one last time when Bird came in and offered to help raid the Galley and to pack up some of the preserved foods the hobbits would need for their journey north.

As they worked together, the two women chatted and laughed about the time they'd spent on the Star, saying how things in a tale never turned out to be quite what you expected. Soon, Cami found herself talking with Bird about what her friend might do after returning to the Fourth Age.

After they'd discussed several plans and possibilities, Cami put her hand over Bird's and stared her straight in the eye. "I just hope you'll follow through on looking for you kin. Search and find them, as I've found mine. It will mean a lot."

Then she added, "I'll make you a promise. Wherever I go, I'll search for clues to the shapechanger puzzle. And, if I find anything at all, I'll get back to you some way. Promise me. Don't forget! Keep looking for the clues I'll send. They'll be there, somewhere."

Bird nodded, her face serious and thoughtful, "We'll look, Pio and I together. I won't forget what you've promised."

When Cami left the galley to return above, she saw Gamba with Mithadan. The boy was at the helm, his hands gripped tightly on the wheel, learning how to steer the vessel. Mithadan stood right behind him, near his shoulder, and kept a close watch on what he was doing, but did not interfere.

That's the way it should be, Cami thought. Let them learn by doing on their own, and try to stand back as much as you dare. But always be there looking on. She smiled at the sight, then slipped away to leave the two of them to their adventure.

[ December 22, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]