THE LONELY STAR (Contd. from BD birthday party)

[Birdland]

"I'll fly where I like, Wyrmling! And a small crow is doubtless less conspicuous then the likes of you!"

Sometimes, the little dragon just irritated Birdie to no end.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Child sat in the moonless night remembering the events of the day. She thought of the dragon and his stern warning of the dangers to be faced and the need for a hobbit to hold on and endure.

She remembered leaving Angara and going below deck to stand bathed in the pale sunlight which filtered through the round window of her cabin. She had placed a deep basin of water on the table to catch the afternoon rays of the sun.

Child had stood over this mirror of water watching her wavering reflection emerge from its depths. In her mind were the pictures of hobbits Kali had found in the tunnel under the ancient city of Minas Tirith. All these had been lost and buried when the keystone of the arch collapsed.

Still, on Kali's return to the ship, Child had asked him to describe and draw these hobbit images with as much detail and accuracy as he could manage. The results had been amazing.

That afternoon Child had propped one of these drawings against the wall and then looked down at her own form and figure reflected in the bowl. What Angara had said was true. The only difference between the ancient hobbit in the picture and her own reflection was a bit of dirt and crude clothing made of skins. Other than that, Child had recognized with both shock and pleasure, she could easily have fit in with the residents of that long buried home.

Now, sitting in the darkness with few stars visible in the sky, she found her thoughts turning equally somber. Morgoth's command issued at Gondolin had explicitly stated that all hobbits were to be rounded up and imprisoned. He had certainly not thought about making fine distinctions between hobbits of the First Age and any stray time travellers who might be wandering about his domain.

At the same time Child realized that the worst thing that they could do was to give Morgoth any information that would indicate hobbits had survived as a free people into the later ages. That would be a virtual death sentence for those hobbits living in Beleriand. Once Morgoth recognized that he had been cheated of his prey, his revenge would be swift and terrible.

The answer was quite simple. Whatever sleuthing was to be done in First Age Beleriand, the hobbits must make certain to blend into their surroundings, to copy and imitate their cousins, thereby guaranteeing that no one could distinguish between Fourth Age hobbits and First Age ones. The fact that Child's Elvish and Adunaic were so halting and limited would actually be an asset in these circumstances.

In her mind's eye, Child selected her oldest and most shabby dress, with the intention of dismantling it still further. Then she could see herself concocting a strange paste of dirt and water which she set aside for later purposes.

Finally, she shook herself out of this reverie and went over to Mithadan whom she found in deep conversation with Piosenniel and Veritas. Child stood in front of him and said, "I do not know your exact plans or who you intend to include in the first landing party, but I will be one of those who go in on the dragon to Gondolin. Mithadan, it does not matter how high your lineage is, or how many ties Pio has in the court. You can not hunt hobbits unless you have a hobbit along."

"I know my own people. They will not open up or share secrets with the big folk in the same way that they would trust and talk to me. Angara was right. If you do not take a hobbit along, you will not succeed. It is time for me to stand firm."

Pio started to protest, but Child quickly cut her off. "I will be dressed and look as close to hobbits of the First Age as I can. And I saw the gleem in Angara's eye. If you do not do this thing, the dragon will not carry you. Not any of you! I am very certain of what I speak."

Child drew herself to her full height and glared back at Mithadan and Pio. "Good. That's settled then. Tell me as soon as we are leaving." She turned on her heels and left to carry out the plans which she had envisioned in her head.

Angara had been perched on the mast above listening to this entire conversation. She turned and looked at Child as the hobbit stormed back to her cabin. Angara snorted a smokering through her nose and muttered approvingly. "Good for you Child. I have an idea what you are up to. Stamp the dust off your soul and do what must be done. I'll make something of you, yet!"

The dragon arched her wings and began preening her scales as she reviewed possible flight plans in her head.

[ July 31, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[piosenniel]

"I'll fly where I like, Wyrmling! And a small crow is doubtless less conspicuous then the likes of you!"

The dragon snorted at this protest. As the skin-changer strode past her, she pushed forth her tail along the deck, and tripped the unsuspecting Bird, sending her sprawling most ungracefully.

Flying back to the mast-top, Angara called down to her. 'Fly where you like!? Humphhh! You can't even walk properly!'

[Birdland]

Birdie got up slowly from the deck, and she was not laughing, though others on the crew had taken the incident as nothing but a harmless joke.

Glaring upward, Bird raised her arms and immediately transforming into the jackdaw, launched herself towards the top of the mast.

[piosenniel]

Child's dramatic retreat downstairs was cut short by a sharp whistle from behind her. She turned, and there stood Pio, thumb and second finger curved under her tongue emitting an ear-splitting sound.

'Look,' said Pio, motioning her companions to come closer,'let's back it all up here a bit. In a very short time we will begin a crucial part of our quest, can we approach it in a less defensive and offensive manner?' She looked round the group. 'Some of us will need to stay on the ship, that's a given. Now, Veritas has volunteered to stay since she's the one who will need to maneuver the ship as needed. Kali, I think should stay also, since there is no way I think we can explain the presence of a hobbrim. Is that alright with you,Kali?'

The hobbrim shook his head 'yes', his large eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation.

'And Daisy, what about you? Will you come with us, or stay here?' Daisy moved near to Kali and took his hand. 'I'm staying here, if you please, ma'am. You can just tell me what happened when you get back. We'll take care of the boat, won't we?' she said turning to Kali and Veritas.

'Rose?'

'I'm going, Pio!' cried the hobbit.'Alright, then, get Child to help you dress so you'll fit in. And please see that you follow all her directions.'

'Bird, of course you're going! It will be long flight in and out, though, and we will be travelling very swiftly - would you consider riding someone's shoulder until we reach our destination?' Pio looked about, frowning, where was Bird?

She looked about the deck again. 'Who's seen Khelek recently?' Veritas spoke up, telling her that the elf was a bit under the weather, and had been spending a lot of time in his cabin, reading and resting. 'So, maybe you can let him know he'll be on the ship with you. Perhaps you can get him to work up some of the computations we may need for other time and place shifts.'

'And Child, most certainly you'll be with us! You're our hobbit heart and soul. And as you said, the needed liaison with the Gondolin hobbits.'

'And as for myself, I can either stay or go as needed. Mithadan and I have gone over the maps, and he can take you all in as well as I can. And by the way, I have no "connections in court" as you put it, Child. For all intents and purposes, I'd be just another elf in Gondolin.

She gestured toward Mithadan. 'I'll let Mithadan speak for himself.'

[ July 31, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[piosenniel]

Thee dragon easily caught the jackdaw in her talons, and held the protesting bird close, inspecting her form.

'Very interesting!' she commented, turning the ball of black and white feathers this way and that. 'Excellent take-up of the physiology!' She set Bird on the sail. 'You know, Bird,' she said with no hint of her usual condescension, 'I wonder if you have ever thought of becoming a dragon?'

[ July 31, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Mithadan]

Mithadan hesitated before answering. History told that only one Man had ever entered Gondolin without invitation. And Tuor had been escorted by Voronwe. In addition, his father had been welcomed to the Hidden City by the King. Mithadan had no such pedigree or invitation. But he and Tuor shared one thing in common, the imprimatur of Ulmo. Words welled up from his memory: "Do not fear to act." Yet he hesitated.

"Pio," he said carefully. "I think that I shall accompany our troop. But to proceed into Gondolin without an Elf among us would be foolhardy. We would, like as not, be imprisoned at the least. And while Turgon's banner may avoid an attack by Thorondor, his allegiance to the King remains; I cannot imagine that our arrival will not be reported. I think that you must come."

[Rose Cotton]

Rose was relieved when she heard she was aloud to go. They would need more then one hobbit. She and Child went down to get themselves dressed to look like hobbits of the first age.
"Child, I was wondering." Rose asked. "If Morgoth ordered the capture of the hobbits. It seems that in curent history he succeded? So when he did he would have thought that there were no hobbits left in ME. But if his orders are not carried out because we rescue them won't he know that there must be some place where they're hideing. He might find the Shire. Although I'm not sure if I'm correct on anything I'm saying right now. It's a good thing your here because I stink as far as history goes.

But there's another thing. Why would he order the capture of hobbits in the first place. Had he ever done that with Elves, Men, or Dwarfs?" Rose talked herself into silence then waited for Child to understand somthing of what she had said.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Child looked at Rose and softly shook her head. "I don't think we need to worry about what Morgoth thinks. As far as we know, he has no idea we're coming or what we'll try to do. The one thing we have protecting us that can keep us from harm is his ignorance about us and our existence."

"If we manage to rescue the hobbits, then it doesn't matter what he knows because our people will be safe. If we don't, then he'll think he has won and won't bother with us anymore. Of course, the ship and crew will try again and again until they do succeed, even if it takes a hundred tries, but he won't know that."

"And, don't forget your history. As Beleriand sinks under the waves, Morgoth will be thrust into the void. He can't bother us from there. In fact, the only thing more important than keeping our secret from Morgoth is keeping it from Sauron, who is his chief lieutenant."

"You know, it's possible that we may even meet Sauron, sometime and someplace in Beleriand. and, if that happens, we can not let him know who we are or what happened in the Third Age. That is the worst thing we could do, not just for our own people, but for all of Middle-earth."

"Your other question, Rose, the one about why he would order our capture, and whether he has ever done that with Elves, Men or Dwarves....." Child's voice trailed off. She sat in silent reflection, and then spoke to the young hobbit.

"I have wondered about this hour upon end, and the true answer is that I don't know. Morgoth is an evil creature who hates all beings, especially those who are free and love goodness. He bears little love for Elves, Men, or Dwarves unless they serve his will. He has killed without hesitation, and I am certain he would kill more if he could. But even his wanton murders are not as hideous as his efforts to corrupt and twist the souls of all around him."

"And yet, Rose, in one way, I think you're right. Somehow, with us, it is different. His hatred, his desire, are more focused. I think it is because he wants to rid the world of all hobbits, preferably by corrupting us into his service. If he finds he can't do that, then I think he will try to eliminate us, down to the very last child. For some reason, he wishes none of us to live, at least as a free people of Middle-earth."

"But why? Why us?" Rose whispered. "Why would he do such a thing? We are not strong like men or wise like Elves or even talented with the beautiful things of the world like Dwarves. We are so little, so unimportant in the great affairs of the world."

Child sighed, "I know, Rose. I know. And I truly can not say why. Perhaps it's merely that he thinks we are different, and he doesn't like that difference. Or because we have too much simple joy and fruitful earth in our lives. And he is no friend to joy or sweetness. Or maybe there is something more, something that we don't know, and couldn't understand even if some power told us. Perhaps, we have some role to play. Perhaps, when Melkor heard the Music, he heard a single line which whispered something about our people, something that made him fear. He may have tried to drown out the line, but it hasn't gone away."

"You know, there may have been something beyond chance that picked out Bilbo or Frodo or even Gollum to carry the Ring. And maybe the picking is not over. Maybe, in some other day and age, there will be another picking of hobbits or hobbrim. And perhaps Morgoth fears that."

"But I suspect that our own part is simpler. It is merely to hold on, to endure, and our people are good at that." Child sat and thought. There were many things in life that were beyond her, things that Mithadan or Bird or Pio could do with ease and confidence. But holding on was definitely within her capabilities. She privately vowed that, whatever happened, she would not despair or let go.

"That is all I know or can guess. I wish I understood more but that is the best I can do." Child reached down to gently hug Rose.

She hesitated, and then spoke again. "It's possible, Rose, that, in Beleriand, I may need to go off on my own, to do some things which need doing. I know you'll understand, and won't feel bad. Don't worry about it, it's nothing terribly important."

Rose said nothing, but promised herself to keep a close eye on her older friend.

[ August 04, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

The two friends finished their disguises, with much giggling and horseplay. Each tried to outdo the other in looking scruffy and disheveled. By the end of the session, both were laughing and holding their sides.

At one point, Daisy and Kali came in to pay a visit and see how the preparations were coming. The two of them tried to hold their faces frozen, but then began to laugh as they had a closer look at Child's raggedy dress and Rose's scruffy hair which she had cut in jagged edges. Daisy giggled and predicted that Rose's new hairstyle would soon be all the rage in the Shire. There was absolutey no sense that the two were about to leave on a dangerous journey that could mean life or death for their own people.

[Rose Cotton]

Rose's talk with Child had made her in much better spirits. It also made her feel very important. Child hadn't mentioned it but Rose felt that as Bilbo and Frodo had been choosen for thier task she and Child had been choosen for thiers. Perhaps that was the melody of the hobbits. To hide, tucked away until they were needed for small but important missions. And before they went on deck Rose went to tuck her sword under her dress then stopped and layed it back. She couldn't bring anything. What if it was found. She didn't know whether first age hobbits carried weapons with them. She and Child would have to rely on thier hearts and minds.

The two accompanied by Kali and Daisy went up to the rest of the crew.

[Mithadan]

Mithadan buckled on his belt with his sword and a long knife hanging from their sheaths. In hidden sheaths in each boot he inserted a throwing knife. From his belt, he hung a soft leather pouch filled with tiny spheres made of metal. A second pouch held bandages and pins and was hung next to a coil of rope with a three-pronged hook. Over his shirt, he pulled on a thin vest of leather which he covered with chain mail. On each arm, he strapped a vambrace of bright steel. Supple leather gloves covered his hands. Over all was a grey cloak with pockets inside and out filled with knives and small tools. He considered, then rejected a buckler, then debated whether to carry or wear a helm. Soon, perhaps in a matter of days, he and his friends might find themselves in the midst of one of the evilest battles of all the ages. He had no intention of being less than fully prepared.

[Rose Cotton]

ooc: [img]smilies/eek.gif[/img] WOW! Your not taking this halfway are you Mith.::

[Rose Cotton]

ooc: Alas I must go away for a few weeks. I will return on the 16. Good luck saving the hobbits and getting Birdie to cheer up. [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] [img]smilies/biggrin.gif[/img] This was probably the worst time to leave but I'll read all about our adventures when I get back. Just try not to offically end the story without me. Bye::

[Birdland]

Birdie carried no weapon except her sling, which she wore as a belt around her waist. Her duty on this journey would be to provide far-ranging eyes and information to bring back to the party, if only to keep them from stumbling into any nasty surprises over the next hill.

Now that the mission was actually about to begin, Birdie felt a lightening of heart, which seemed peculiar considering the danger they might be walking into.

"At last, Kali will begin to find his answers, and if others have their questions satisfied as well, so be it."

[Child of the 7th Age]

Unlike Mithadan, Child could not imagine that she would be of much use in a pitched offensive, whatever weapon she might bring. She was, however, reasonably adept with a bow and had slung one across her back, along with a small quiver of arrows. Just after she had married, her husband had taught her to hunt down rabbits and other small game when they had lived in Frogmorton, not far from the forests of East Farthing. So, in a pinch, the bow could serve a double purpose.

Most of Child's supplies were geared towards defense and survival, rather than outright battle. Around her waist and visible to all she carried only a small dagger, a rope, and a leather pouch with food inside.

Under her skirts, however, was another matter. Here she hid a belt with another small dagger, a flint to make fire, a cord and hook for fishing, and a few useful tools. She had gone down to Piosenniel and begged her for herbs, bandages, and other simple remedies that could be used for healing. These too were strapped under her skirts.

Piosenniel had pushed into her hands one more packet. It was filled with some kind of seeds. Child held the seeds in her hands and squinted at them closely, "What is this? And whatever would I need seeds for? I'll not be staying long enough to start a flower garden!" She looked up at Pio and nervously laughed.

Pio replied, "These are precious. My people call this plant 'athelas' and it has great power in healing."

Child nodded her head in recognition, "You mean kingsfoil, but I still don't understand." Child then looked up at Pio with concern written over her face, "Pio, I don't think this plant was known in First Age Beleriand. If Mithadan knew I was taking this.....," Her voice trailed off.

"Of course, it wasn't known in the First Age, and, most likely, these seeds will never sprout or see the light of day. We will undoubtedly take care of our business, rescue the hobbits, and all return quickly to the ship. But, if you are somehow trapped in a desperate situation for a long time, these seeds could make the difference in someone's life or death."

Child scarcely knew what to say. She thought she had been more discreet in her plans. She opened her mouth to stumble out a denial when the Elf abruptly stopped her, "Rose came to me and mentioned some nonsense about going off on your own important business. I am not going to ask questions. Just carry these if you need them."

Pio smiled gently, "And I did tell Rose to guard her tongue in the future. Other than that, I have spoken to no one."

Child gave the Elf a hug and slid the seeds under her belt.

[ July 31, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Child went to check on Rose and see how she was coming along. The young hobbit was packing a number of items in a bag to sling over her back. Child and Rose were discussing their provisions when there was a knock on the cabin door.

Kali and Daisy came in together. Kali carried a small dagger in his hand, and Daisy a wooden bow with arrows.

Kali explained why they had come. "We knew you couldn't take your sword, Rose, and we wanted you to have something to protect yourself. We've brought what we have to share with you. They are simple weapons but they will help if you need to guard your life or to search for game to eat. Please take them."

For one moment, Rose thought she might say no, but immediately realized how false such a response would be. She thanked her two friends for their generosity, and promised to do her best to return the bow and knife as soon as possible. She gave Daisy a hug and squeezed Kali's hand.

Then Rose turned to face the hobbrim and said: "I will do my best Kali. If your kin are there, we will find them."

Just as Kali and Daisy were about to go out the door, Child came over and said, "Kali, we've asked you a hundred different questions, but there is one important one which everyone has forgotten. Do you have a family surname?"

Kali turned in puzzlement, "A family surname? What is that?"

Child replied, "It is a name that everyone shares in a single family, and it is usually passed down from parents to son."

Kali's eyes lit up, "Yes, we have this name. But we do not use it often. My family's name....it was 'Burrowes.'"

"Thank you, Kali," Child responded. "That may be important or not, but every scrap of information we can gather may help us break through the puzzle."

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

As Child paced down the hall, she came upon the trampled remnents of a sea-lilly band and a card with wobbly letters. She quickly scooped these into her hand and desposited them inside her cabin so none of the other hobbits would stumble onto the discards.

Child clambered up onto deck with her supplies and belongings. Bird stood by the rail, humming a strange tune. She looked a bit more cheerful than she had the last day or two, but still not her normal self.

Child walked up and wished Bird good luck on her flight. She wanted to say something else, but was uncertain how to begin. Then she decided to plunge ahead. In a situation like this, there was simply no reason to hold back.

"Bird, I know you're worrying about lots of things that I can't possibly imagine or understand. But I know one thing that concerns you is Kali, and whether or not he will find his family. You have to believe that I also care about this deeply."

"We'll probably go in and rescue the hobbits quickly. But, just in case, it doesn't work like that, my people may have to survive for a while in a difficult situation. I will do everything that I can to make their survival possible. For, unless the hobbits live on, Kali will have no kin to return to in this age or in any other."

Child turned away quickly and walked to the stern of the boat, looking up into the starless night. She watched her friends assemble on deck, a strange mixture of different races, both male and female, yet with one common goal.

[ July 31, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Birdland]

She became a hare,
A hare upon the plain;
And he became a greyhound dog
And fetch'd her back again.

Hulloa, hulloa, hulloa, hulloa,
You coal black smith!
You have done me no harm
You never shall have my maidenhead
That I have kept so long;
I'd rather die a maid.
Yes, but then she said,
And be buried all in my grave
Than I'd have such a
nasty, husky, dusky, musty, fusky
coal-black smith
A maiden I will die."

"Birdee, what is that strange song you sing?" Bird whirled around to find Kali standing behind her, solemn-eyed and looking a little overwhelmed by all the last minute preparations.

"Why, Kali, it's just a silly skin-changer's song I learned when I was young." Bending down, she gestured the hobbrim close and whispered conspiratorially. "It's actually called 'The Meeting of Aulë and Yavanna', but don't tell Pio that. The Elves are rather touchy about having their precious Valar sung about in jest."

Kali nodded, wide-eyed and not really understanding the joke, but willing to play along all the same. "Do you know other skin-changer songs?" he asked

"Oh, a few, a few," Bird muttered. She was suddenly uncomfortable about the direction of the conversation. "Tell you what, though: along with any word we have of your kin, if I hear any good songs in our journey, I'll bring them back and we'll sing them together."

"I'd like that very much, Birdie...Did they change into very many things? Aulë and Yavanna, I mean?"

"Why yes, all sorts of silly things, which is really not how it works, but then, it's just a song. In the end Aulë wins her heart, and they rule their part of Arda to this very day."

Then Rose called to Kali for last minute advise on her costume, and he waved and ran back to the group of Hobbits.

Of course, Bird did not sing the last verse to Kali, Bird had never understood it herself, and in the present circumstances, it seemed to whisper dire portents:

"She became a corpse,
A corpse all in the ground.
And he became the cold, grey clay,
and covered her all around."

[piosenniel]

Pio found Child at the stern. There was one last thing she needed to share with her before they left.

She put her hand on Child's arm, and drew her closer for privacy.

'Should you carry out your intended plan, I would have you know two things: One is that there will come among the hobbits a young man in grey robes who will aid you as he can. He will call himself Ancalimon, and it would prove wise to listen to his counsel. Approach him freely with your concerns and questions and have no fear that he is a servant of Morgoth, that he might betray you. He serves only the Light.' She paused to make sure Child had understood what she said.

'Second, know that we will come for you, though the years seem long and hope seems dim. We will not abandon you.' She released Child's arm and stepped back and smiled at her.

She spoke her quiet good-byes to the rest of the crew remaining on the ship, and gave some last minute instructions to Veritas.

She passed Bird, standing at the railing, humming to herself. Leaning against the railing herself she spoke to her old friend. 'All angst aside, Bird, on both our parts, I want you to know that I know I can count on you, and you - well you know me - I got your back!'

Angara awaited on the waves, grown large enough to carry them all.

'Well, shall we go?' said Pio, pulling her cloak about her, and headed toward the boats.

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Just as the party left, Child leaned towards Rose for one last word. "Don't forget Mithadan's instructions to us. You and I are to tell no one we come from a future age. We are merely servants to do menial chores and carry messages for our masters. It's doubtful anyone will ask anything more , but if they should, Mithadan found us in the forests of east Beleriand, probably stragglers cut off from the original group of hobbits who made their way towards the west. Keep as silent and hidden as possible until we see our kin and can figure out how they talk and act." Rose nodded in agreement.

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Birdland]

Anagara raised her wings and leapt from the sea to the sky, her passengers clinging to her back. The black and white crow circled the dragon.

Then the party set out for the far shore, the remaining crew on the Lonely Star cheering them on.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Child's eyes had difficulty adjusting to the blackness of the night sky. Gradually, however, she became accustomed to the darkness and began to see shadowy outlines of both water and land below.

Pio and Mithadan had kept their exact navigational plans secret, but they had dropped a few hints, and Child thought she could figure out their intentions. She knew that their ship had been located just south of the coastline of Barad Nimras. This meant their initial flight path would have to wind north over the water along the edge of the coast. Child guessed that Pio and Mithadan probably meant to bring them in from the north near Cirith Thoronath over the Secret Way. This meant their northward trip would occupy a considerable portion of the journey. However, they would then veer east over land to reach the Encircling Mountains and the City of Gondolin itself.

Child could not judge how long they had journied north over the water. Angara was flying very high in the sky, and the hobbit's bones felt bitterly chilled. The whole flight seemed more like a dream than reality. Just behind them, in the wake of the dragon's winds, flew a small and determined crow.

Then, in an instant, Angara swooped down. Child abruptly awoke from her cold reverie to focus on a clear image of water and coast. She glimpsed what looked like the start of a mountain chain and a tiny peninsula jutting out into the Bay. Child's heart leapt with excitement. The tallest peak she could see had to be Mount Taras. This would be near the now deserted city of Vinyamar which Turgon had left many years ago in order to lead his people to the safety of Gondolin. Some said the city had been set on the northern slopes of the mountain, while others maintained that it had been built beneath Taras itself. There would sadly be no time for such explorations.

Angara did not turn east here, but continued her northward flight hugging the coastline, her great wings cutting the air stroke-by-stroke.

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Despite the length of the flight, there was little talk or interaction of any kind between the mounted riders. Each member of the party seemed locked inside their own thoughts and dreams.

Child could feel Rose's small body seated just behind her. Despite the young hobbit's heavy skirts and shawl, the girl was shivering and had pressed herself against Child's back and neck in a vain attempt to conserve warmth. A few of Elbereth's stars glittered dimly in the heavens above. All else was dark and bleak.

Child wondered whether the wintry conditions were also unpleasant for the Elf who had dressed in such light garments. She guessed not, since her kind seemed far more immune to extremes of heat and cold. Pio's eyes appeared to be fixed on the distant horizon with little indication that she was even aware of the bitter chill which invaded the small frames of the hobbit folk.

Angara began wending steadily more eastward as the chain of hills swung inward to meet the Firth of Drengist. Child raised herself up on her heels to peer over Pio's shoulder. Down below, and ahead in their flight path, lay the gigantic gorge called Cirith Ninniach in Sindarin, or 'rainbow cleft' in the common tongue. From here, running northward, Child caught her first glimpse of the Ered Lomin or 'echoing mountains'. For one instant, Child wished she could go down and see if sounds echoed through these slopes as loudly as others had suggested. But there was no time for that now.

The Ered Lomin ran towards the northwest to form the western border of Hithlum. Their own path, however, would soon veer far more sharply to the east.

In a single instant, the dragon came to a halt in mid-air, hovering on a single point. The crow who had valiantly kept up with Angara's rapid strokes came colliding into the tail of the dragon. For an instant, she alit on the topside of the winged wyrm, then swung out and slowly began circling around, making a complete circuit from tail to nose and back again.

The dragon lowered his head and nodded towards the east, to indicate that it was time to change their course. Until now, flying over coastal waters, they had little fear of meeting any hostile forces. But, the instant they began to fly over land, the probability of being seen increased and, with it, a heightened sense of danger. Child wondered to herself if Mithadan would send out the crow to scout out the terrain below.

Child found her own breath, with its icy puffs of mist, catching within her throat. Her lungs cried out for more air. But, she admitted to herself, there was still another cause for her labored breathing. They were here. They were really here in First Age Beleriand, and Gondolin lay ahead.


_____________________________________________

OOC -- If I have got any of this geography wrong, please advise and I will edit these last two posts.

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Mithadan]

The thrill of the ride wore off quickly, between the cold and the growing tension. It was important that Angara not be seen, at least until it was unavoidable. Mithadan doubted whether the dragon could somehow bypass the Eagles of the Crissaegrim. Which reminded him...

He turned and shouted back to Birdland, "Keep close! We don't want some eagle making a snack of you!"

[Birdland]

The entire journey had turned into a frozen dream, with Birdie falling into an endless rhythm of wingstrokes. She followed the faint golden glow of the dragon, a star which had constantly led her on, almost in a hypnotic state.

This state ended abruptly when the dragon stopped and hovered in mid-air. Bird, awoke from her dream state as she crashed into the dragon's scaled tail, and skittered down it's length. She recovered and slowly circled the length of the now massive wyrm, wishing - not for the first time - that crows were of the hovering kind.

She had not realized how cold and high they were, wondering for a moment if they had somehow lost their way and had wound up in the Reagions of Everlasting cold. Below them yawned a vast, dark fissure in the earth. "The Rainbow Cleft", Bird knew it to be called, but there was no rainbow brightness to it now. It looked like a gigantic slash of ink in the landscape below. The mountains to the north gave off a faint glow of starlight from their snow-shrouded peaks.

Mithadan turned and shouted to Birdie: "Stay close! We don't want some eagle making a snack of you." The skin-changer started, looking around wildly, then sent a mock-glare at the Man-Elf. As if the likes of Thorondor and his kin would interest themselves in munching on crow. May as well say that Gwaihir the Wind Lord would fancy a snack of housefly.

"Since when did the Eagles hunt at night?" Bird shouted back. But then the entire party looked to the East. The faintest milk-glow of light - not even light, but a mere description of light - was touching the far horizon.

[Mithadan]

In the dim light, they glimpsed the peaks of the mountains surrounding Dor-Lomin as they dropped beneath the dragon. A wide vale lay below them, wreathed in shadow, and as time passed, Mithadan knew they had crossed over the Teiglin and, though the vale was still dark, they were approaching the mighty Sirion. Ahead, the light of the rising sun illuminated the peaks of the hills and mountains that were the western border of Dorthonion, now known as Taur-nu-fuin. Angara tilted slightly and they turned a bit to the south where the icy, white tips of still higher mountains grew bright in the dawning light.

"We're almost there," said Mithadan.

[piosenniel]

Angara, soon we will cross the great river Sirion. You must head for the sheer sided peaks of the Crissaegrim, and make for the Cirith Thoronath. I will watch for landmarks and you may use my eyes and memory.

The dragon nodded its head once, all her thoughts focused on lookout for any danger to her passengers.

Pio could see Bird falling behind the great dragon, her small wings growing tired. She asked Angara to slow for a moment and motioned Bird to her. 'A frozen bird will be of no use to us.' said Pio, as Bird landed on her arm. 'We are approaching the Cleft of the Eagles and you must now stay close to us, or risk being killed by them. Once we are near the route to the Secret Way, you may fly free once again.' She perched Bird on her thigh, and drew her cloak over her.

Pio's eyes sought out the Pass through which Tuor had led the Gondothlim to safety. When she had it fixed in her sight, she pulled out the blue Banner of the House of the King and held it streaming aloft and directed Angara to descend. They plunged swiftly into the icy reaches of the Echoriath, and landed on the stony flat of the pass. 'Do not dismount yet.' she said.

Pale dawn mixed with moonlight caught the banner as Pio held it high. The setting night was silent, a few stars peeked through the black sky. Then they were blotted out, and there was a rushing like a great wind in rocky places. A force of mighty eagles fell from the sky with a great screeching and encircled the dragon and her riders.

'Who comes bearing the banner of the King through so dark a night, and to so perilous a place?' the greatest eagle demanded. His steely beak glinted in the pale light and his swordlike talons clicked dangerously on the rocky ground as he drew near them. 'We have marked your journey for sometime now, and it seemed to us one of desperation and of stealth. Solely by reason of the token you bear have we allowed you to come so far. But you will not pass these mountains nor live beyond this morning if you cannot satisfy me of your intent. Speak ye who ride a worm of Morgoth!'

Angara hissed in anger, but Piosenniel stayed her wrath. 'Peace Angara, for they know neither you nor the history of your race,' she said. Pio placed Bird on Child's lap, and dismounted with the banner,throwing back her hood to make her face visible. She bowed low, and introduced herself.

'O great Thorondor, we do come on a desperate mission. One we cannot hope to accomplish without your aid.' She began an explanation of their journey and what they planned to do. Thorondor and his folk knew of the hiding of the halflings in Gondolin, and their eyes blazed when they heard of the treachery Melkor had planned for them. The elf explained as best she could the need to contact the hobbits in Gondolin so that they might prepare to be taken to a safer place. None of the explanation included any reference to timelines or knowledge of events to come other than the known evil designs of Melkor.

The King of Eagles asked many detailed questions and sought to pierce her story at every turning, looking for any undercurrent of darkness. Then he was silent and turned to face the West. After a moment, he nodded his head, as if in agreement, and turned his gaze back to Piosenniel. He fixed her with a great yellow eye and said, 'I fear you have not told all you know, but what you think is best for us to know at this moment. Yet you have not come to do evil, this I see. I cannot find any taint of darkness in you, and I will accept your tale if you will vouch for these others.' His gaze transfixed the hobbits and the man in turn, coming to rest on the dragon. 'But you cannot fly a dragon into Gondolin, Elf. Not even if night be black as ink, and day shrouded by thick fog.'

'I will vouch for my companions.' said Pio, naming each one of them including Bird, who stared in wonder at the mighty eagle. 'And as for the dragon, I would wish it that she stay here hidden by you until we can return.' Angara growled but held her tongue.

'Agreed. The dragon may stay here with us. But how will you descend to the city and enter?'

'That is where I ask your greatest aid, Thorondor. We needs must get down directly from this pass to the Vale of Tumladen. From there I will take them through Idril's Secret Way which Tuor has delved for her.'

'You know of this way, Elf?'

'I do, O King, but the story of how is for another time. We must pass through it quickly. Will you aid us in this matter?'

'We will do what you ask, Piosenniel. But how will you return?'

'When we are ready to return to Angara, we will send Bird to you with a message.'

Thorondor spoke to his gathered folk, 'Mark the bird well! And do not harry her when she comes to us.'

The rest of the companins dismounted, and secured what they had brought upon themselves. Each was grasped securely in the talons of one of the eagles and born silently down to the floor of the encircled valley, and gently deposited. Bird flew down herself and landed on Child's shoulder.

The group followed Pio a short distance to a large basin which had once been filled with water, but was now grown full of thick bushes. They pushed their way through to a rocky outcropping, where the Elf bent apart two bushes and ushered them into a dark tunnel.

Mithadan lit two small lights he had thought to bring, and he took up the rear guard while Pio led them along the close, dark way.

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[ August 03, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[Birdland]

Bird shivered and ruffled her feathers. Even riding on the shoulder of Child, the roof of the tunnel appeared uncomfortably close, and it was as cold as the sky they had just left.

"How long is this cursed tunnel", she whispered "and where does it take us?"

[piosenniel]

'Have patience, Bird.' chided Pio. This is a long tunnel, running from Idril and Tuor's house in the southern corner of the city, through the Amon Gwareth whereon Gondolin is built. It passes under the Main Gate to the city, and then beneath Tumladen's surface to the Encircling Mountain's where we entered it. At the pace we are going we should reach the end in about an hour and a half. We will know we are near the other exit when we climb the stairs into the the house itself.'

She glanced behind and saw Rose was beginning to tire and lag. Putting the little one on her back, she cautioned her to keep her head low.

Then Pio picked up the pace a little and forward they strode into the unyielding darkness.

[ August 01, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Child had said farewell to the dragon Angara with great reluctance for she had grown to know her well. She noticed how the King of Eagles and Thorondor had fixed on the beast with a puzzled look. For, never before in the First Age, had a flying dragon been seen. The Dark Lord had a plentiful number of wyrms, but only those that crawled upon the ground.

Once she had said her goodbyes, Child entered the tunnel and glanced nervously about its recesses. The party trudged forward through the darkness. The older hobbit kept her fingers loosely fixed over the hilt of her dagger, afraid that the shadows might pull back to reveal some hidden danger.

In Child's mind, the very rocks of the walls seemed to be whispering. They spoke of prophecies and doom not yet fulfilled as well as untold sadness and tears of frustration spilled forth without ceasing. Child found herself shuddering once again, but this time it was not the night air which chilled her soul to its core.

She could not imagine how her own people could ever survive in such a world. Even the difficulties of the late Third Age seemed to pale in comparison. It was as if every tree and tunnel and particle of soil had been corrupted by the machinations of Morgoth who loomed quietly over all. Here there was not a single Ringbearer to hold the powers of evil at bay, but an entire world of Elves, Men, and Hobbits who were commanded to stand firm in the face and presence of a shadow whose fingers lengthened and probed into every crevice of existence.

Child stumbled over a rock and found herself tripping, falling down onto the jagged floor of the cave. Mithadan's welcoming arms came forward in the darkness to catch her and set her forward on the winding path. Bird sputtered awkwardly at this interruption,. The crow lost her balance for a moment only to recover and perch once again on top of Child's shoulder.

Child herself was still lost in her imaginings. She found it difficult to envision hobbits living under such conditions. It was one thing to pick out a few gifted individuals whose task was to represent the community in its battle against the shadow. It was quite another to expect an entire population to take such a stand.

And what negative effects this situation must have had upon her people and their culture! Child's mind conjured up images of a low and brutish tribe, living only at the suffrance and pity of the Elves. She found herself uncomfortabe and saddened at this depiction.

Suddenly, from the front of the column, Mithadan's voice rang out with urgency, "Heads up. The stairs are just before us." Beyond these stairs, a light, dim but certain, began to glow.

[ August 02, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[ August 10, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[piosenniel]

They reached the top of the stairs. Pio cautioned them to silence and pushed aside the screen which hid the entry way. Stepping quietly into the neglected storage space, which served to hide the entrance to the tunnel, she looked to see that no person was in the room. She saw no one, and motioned her companions to leave the tunnel.

'Stay here and be as quiet as you can' she whispered. 'I'm going out to see who is in the rest of the house, and to find out what day this is.'

She took off her sword and knives leaving them for Child to watch, and unwrapped the coil of rope from about her waist, putting it in Rose's keeping along with her cape. When Rose looked at her questioningly, she explained she would be less noticed if she appeared unarmed.

As a last measure she checked the hidden knives in her boot tops, and the one at the small of her back. Satisfied they were in position, and easily accessible, she opened the door to the storeroom and stepped into the hall.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Child, Rose, and Mithadan sat in the storeroom waiting for Piosenniel to return. Bird perched on an overhead shelf. At one point, Rose tried to open the storeroom door and peer out into the hallway, but Mithadan quickly pulled her back.

The dire foreboding which Child had sensed as she trudged through the tunnel was largely gone. She dug into the provisions in the pouch at her side, and began setting out food for everyone to share. Mithadan sat alone preoccupied with his thoughts, so the two hobbits settled down to eat as they waited for the Elf's return. Bird remained nestled on the shelf above. Child wondered when and if she would take a different form.

[piosenniel]

Pio took a deep breath, and then proceeded down the familiar hallway. Her last memories of this home were as it lay in ruin just prior to their escape from the wrath of Melkor.

The house was quiet. No servants busied themselves with early morning duties as yet; but then, as she recalled, Idril and Tuor lived a more simple life than other royal folk, preferring to do much for themselves.

Now she had come to Idril's apartments, where that fair lady liked to spend the early morning hours engaged in organizing her day and the affairs of the house.

The door was ajar, and she heard the scritch of a pen as it marked items on a list.

Pio put her hand to the door as if to enter and heard that familiar greeting, 'Come!'.

Idril was intent on her lists when Pio entered. She glanced up, and then frowning, stood and bade the elf advance no further.

'Who are you?' she asked and circled the still figure. 'You seem familiar, but I cannot place you firmly in my mind.'

'Lady Idril, it is Pio.' came the simple answer.

'What madness is this?' returned Idril, 'You have lived years untold; this I perceive. And you claim to be a child? Surely you jest. But if so, it lacks humour. I saw the little one and her mother just an hour ago, slumbering in their room downstairs. Do you mean to tell me you are she? Do you mean them harm? What trickery is this?'

Pio asked leave to sit, and placed her hands on her thighs, in plain sight. She told a simple story of herself and her companions, and their desire and long journey to rescue the hobbit population in Gondolin from the designs of Melkor. She told Idril of the Eagle's help and their passage through the Secret Way. No mention was made of the soon to be besieged city or the terrible wanderings to be endured by the escapees through the Secret Way. Idril went over the story point by point, considering each one carefully.

'I see,' she said carefully. 'Yet surely you understand that your claim exceeds the bounds of reason. Have you no small proof that you are who you say you are?'

Pio unclasped the fine silver chain that hung about her neck, and pulled out the small pendant from beneath her mithril shirt. She held it in the palm of her hand and offered it to Idril.

'This is Holly's necklace!' said Idril, recognizing the green enamelled silver holly leaf by its fine craftsmanship. 'I see it about her neck every day. How come you by it?'

'When the shadow comes, she will give it me as a token of her and my father, who made it for her. I have promised her I will return one day to let her know I fare well.'

'I see,' she said again. With a slight smile and a steady hand, she handed the necklace back to Pio, who replaced it around her neck and hid it once again beneath her shirt. 'Now where are these companions of yours? I would meet them and judge their character for myself.'

'I will bring them to you.' said Pio, rising and bowing to Idril. 'They are just down the hall.'

She went toward the door, and then thought to ask, 'What day is this, my lady?' The answer chilled her.

'Surely you know this,' she replied sharply. But she again smiled and her face grew calm 'In three days will be the gathering for the observance of the Festival of the Gates of Summer.'

'We must hurry, then.' said Pio and went to fetch her companions.

'I surely will,' replied Idril. She hurried away down the hall.

[ August 03, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[ August 05, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[piosenniel]

Once she reached the storeroom, she opened the door carefully, announcing herself softly.

'Come quickly and quietly.' she said. 'We are going to see Idril.'

The passage to Idril's rooms was a safe one, and Pio ushered them through the door, closing it firmly behind them.

'My Lady,' she began, but Idril was not there. Piosenniel frowned and looked about. Her friends stood and waited with growing unease. But moments later, Idril returned. She looked at the company with interest.

'This is Child and Rose, the hobbits of whom we spoke,' siad Pio. 'This is our companion Bird,' indicating the jackdaw perched still on Child's shoulder. 'And this is Lord Mithadan.'

Idril regarded each of them closely, a small frown creased her brow as she looked on Mithadan.

'Another Man in Gondolin. That will be a sore puzzle for my father should news of you come to his ears. But come, let us discuss matters in a reasonable fashion. Where is Piosenniel?' Idril asked.

'Here my Lady,' replied Pio with a frown.

'Come now,' answered Idril. 'This jest, if jest it be has gone far enough. Where are the child and her mother?'

'Lady Idril,' Pio began, but Mithadan laid a hand on her shoulder. He bowed to the Princess and said 'My Lady, our tale is strange, that is true. Yet we do not lie, surely you can perceive this.' He met Idril's gaze steadily, but she turned away quickly and walked to the door. She whistled sharply and Tuor burst in holding a great axe aloft. Several Elves followed bearing drawn swords. Two seized Mithadan roughly and pulled his arms behind him. Others set the points of their swords to the chests of Pio, Child and Rose.

'Idril!' cried Piosenniel in anguish.

Tuor stepped forward to face Piosenniel. With a grim look on his face, he cried 'What have you done with Holly and the child? Answer now! If you have harmed them, your lives are forfeit!'

Birdland cried out and raised her wings as if to launch herself at Tuor. 'Bird! No!' cried Child sharply. With a dark look at Idril, Bird settled herself reluctantly.

At that moment, another Elf rushed in and shouted 'Holly and Piosenniel are safe in their chambers! She wears the pendant and chain about her neck!'

Idril looked at Pio in confusion, relief obvious on her face. But Tuor's face remained set in a look of anger. 'I know not what game you play, but it is a dangerous one. If you indeed entered upon the Secret Way, your lives are no less in jeopardy than if you harmed Piosenniel and her mother. I will have the truth now and quickly!'

'May I speak, Lord?' asked Mithadan. Tuor nodded curtly. Mithadan looked down at the sword hanging from his belt. The green stone on the pommel glowed and swirled with the colors of the sea. He looked up again and met Tuor's eyes. 'About my neck is a chain,' he said quietly. 'On it hangs a small conch shell. Take it from my neck and hold it up.'

Tuor and Idril exchanged glances, but the man stepped forward and took the chain from Mithadan. The Elves held Mithadan tightly as if suspicious of some trick but he merely looked on with a slight smile on his face.

Tuor looked at the shell, then at Piosenniel. With a shrug, he held up the shell. A faint mist came from its opening which gathered in the air before Tuor. The Elves murmured nervously and raised their blades. The gathering cloud glowed and in it appeared an image of the sea, small but clear. The sound of the restless ocean could be heard and then came the clear tone of a great horn being blown. Then a voice was heard. 'Tuor,' it said. 'Ye have served me well and faithfully. Do so again now. Those before ye are on a mission and follow a fate as great as thine own. Give them all assistance and doubt them not.' Then the voice faded and the cloud disappeared.

Tuor and Idril stared at the shell in amazement. Then Tuor motioned the Elves to release Pio and her friends. He turned to the Elves and said 'Go now and speak to no one of this or our guests. This is the will of Ulmo, Lord of the Seas.'

The Elves departed and Idril again turned to Piosenniel. 'I am sorry,' she said. 'But these are dark times and your tale was beyond belief. What is your mission and what help can we provide?'

Piosenniel sighed with relief. 'It is as I said, my Lady. The Dark power seeks the Hobbits of Gondolin and we have come to give them such assistance as we may. But time is short and we must be allowed to act quickly.'

[ August 02, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[ August 03, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[ August 03, 2002: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

[Mithadan]

Tuor handed the chain and shell back to Mithadan with a smile. 'Forgive me,' he said. 'And be at ease. We will give you such aid as we can.'

[Child of the 7th Age]

Idril shook her head and looked again upon their group. "It is true that Morgoth has recently issued an order to capture and imprison the little folk. Even years ago, we knew that he held this people in low regard, and that they all lived in great danger. For that reason, they have dwelled here, in the peace of Gondolin, for the past sixty years, and we have done all in our power to protect them."

"You two," she said, nodding at Child and Rose, "would do well to guard your true identity. If Morgth knew hobbits still lived as a free people in a later age, I do not know that he would do."

Child curtsied and responded, "Yes, Lady, we had already realized that. Rose and I are poor refugees from East Beleriand who canot even remember our names or the clan from which we sprang. We desire to rejoin our people. The horrors of war have driven all else from our minds."

"And that story is a common one," Idril replied. "Few would think to question such a tale in this age and place."

"Lady," continued Child, I would like to meet with some of the leaders of the hobbit community and speak with them about our own desire to return to our people, as well as our friends who wish to help them. Perhaps, you could arrange for me to journey to one of their homes,"

Idril nodded in reply, "Yes, I believe so. The hobbit Lindo is in my sevice. He speaks fluent Elvish as well as the language of your people. I will have him convey you sometime tomorrow to the house of Maura Tuk that you may meet with him and others of importance in your community."

Child could barely stifle a smile....Maura Tuk....Frodo Took....some things never change. She nodded and murmurred, "Thank you, maam."

Idril turned to leave, "I will have the servants prepare chambers for you. And the bird....?"

Rose piped up, "She is my companion, and will stay by my side."

[ August 03, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Birdland]

Idril smiled for the first time since the strange band, with their stranger tales, had walked into her chambers. Kneeling down, she laid her hand on Rose's cheek and said, "Very well, you may keep your strange, but faithful companion. How did you come by your little pet, sell?"

Rose started at the word "pet", and Bird's claws tightened on her shoulder. But Rose stammered "Oh...I...I found her under a tree when she was just a fledgling. She had fallen from her nest and I took her home. She has been with me ever since. Haven't you, Bird?"

Bird bent down nibbled one of Rose's curls, while whispering in her ear furiously, "I'll get you for this, Halfling!"

"Oh, she speaks!" said Idril with delight, "but I could not catch the words. What did she say, little Rose?"

"Oh, she can say all sorts of things! Why sometimes you'll think she's almost human. Say "bain fileg", Bird."

Bird scrunched her shoulders and glowered around the room, then muttered "bain fileg".

[ August 03, 2002: Message edited by: Birdland ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

Their party was quickly led through the halls by one of the Elves who served Tuor and his household. Each was taken to a room where they found a comfortable bed, a tray with food, and even a new set of clothing for the next day.

A simple peasant skirt and blouse was laid out on Child's bed. This was apparently the type of clothing which hobbits of the First Age wore. Child breathed a sigh of relief. This neat outfit, although utilitarian and rustic, was far different than the crude skins that had been depicted in the hidden room beneath the city of Minas Tirith. In fact, this clothing was considerably nicer than the ragged outfits which she and Rose had improvised.

The rooms themselves were large, and by any standards, elegantly furnished. Lace curtains hung at the windows which seemed to glisten and sparkle in the candlelight as if they had been swept with snowflakes. There were intricate tapestries hanging on the walls, and thick rugs upon the floors.

Child decided to visit Pio whose chamber lay next to hers. Just as she was about to try and learn the Elf's plans for the next day, the women heard a gentle knock. As Pio undid the latch and loosened the door, the tall and gracious figure of Idril emerged. The Lady inclined her head to Child and inquired if she had found everything to her satsfaction. The hobbit responded with polite thanks, and then thought best to leave Pio and Idril in privacy. As Child ventured into the hall to return to her chamber, she could hear Idril's words, "Piosenniel, I believe you and I have much to discuss. While the hour is late and you are tired, a few things must be said before we retire for the night." The heavy door to the room closed, and then there were no more words to be heard.

After finishing her meal, Child slipped into the large bed, with its down matress and comforter. She felt as though she were floating on a cloud. It had been a long time since she had enjoyed such luxuries. At that same moment, another knock came on her own door. She got up to answer and was greeted by the small figure of Rose, a pillow stuffed under her arm.

Rose yawned and asked, "Do you mind if I come and join you? My room is very large, and Bird seems quite angry at me. I definitely get the feeling she would prefer to be left on her own. And, to tell the truth, I am a bit lonely and just a little uncomfortable."

"Come in, Rose. Come in," Child responded. "This bed is so huge, it could sleep three or four Elves. I'm sure two hobbits could manage in the space."

As soon as they had settled down, nestling into the covers, Rose's small voice whispered, "Lady Idril, she seems so,.... so different. It wasn't just Tuor or the battle axe. It's as if the person we met on the Lonely Star was different than this Idril."

Child responded with sadness, "I understand what you mean. This is a grand Lady preoccupied with matters that come with running a large household and helping to guard the fortunes of a great people in uncertain times. Remember, too, that she does not know who we are. How would you react if someone you did not know arrived on your doorstep with such a fantastic tale, riding upon the back of a dragon? Now, don't worry about it, and try to get some sleep. We have a lot to do tomorrow."

Rose rolled over and was soon sleeping. But Child lay awake in the mountain of down and covers, running over thoughts in her head. Her mind again turned to Idril. Idril did seem different than the last time they had met. The Lady that Child had served upon the Lonely Star had eyes that looked into countless ages with endless wisdom and sadness. She had seen so much and experienced so much. The hand of Nienna lay upon her face, and in every act she performed. Child had been so proud to wait upon that Lady, for in all her words, in all her deeds, boundless compassion poured forth.

This Idril, the one in charge of the household, looked ageless and beautiful and filled with knowledge, yet she was not the same. She clearly showed her love for her own people and her concern for the hobbits, but she had not yet experiencd the full measure of pain or sadness which can transform the soul. She had never looked upon the slopes of Taniquetil or seen the white shores of the Blessed Lands. And this Idril was a stranger to Child. The hobbit was even a little afraid of her.

Child pushed these bothersome thoughts away, and whispered silent thanks to Ulmo who had apparently guarded their way into the city of Gondolin. Then she fell asleep.

[ August 04, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[ August 04, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Child of the 7th Age]

That night, as Child lay sleeping, she witnessed a strange thing. The hobbit saw herself standing and weeping on the ridge of a hillside, on a small island within a tree-shadowed lake. Far distant, a Lady walked alone. She was a tall shining figure whose silver edged skirts brushed against grass of green and gold. In her hand was a book. As she read from its pages, her voice rang with measureless sorrow and compassion.

And thou, Melkor, shalt see that no theme may be played that hath not its uttermost source in me, nor can any alter the music in my despite. For he that attempteth this shall prove but mine instrument in the devising of things more wonderful, which he himself hath not imagined.

Child felt irrisistably drawn to the path of the Lady and followed after her as fast as she could. The hobbit yearned to reach out and touch her skirts which, like the curtains in her own chamber, seemed edged with sparkling snowflakes.

Just as Child could run no further, the shining one turned to speak, "Little one, come. I will grant you a blessing."

The Lady bent down and reached out her hand. She was so near that Child could even see her eyes which held deep stores of mourning and compassion. She gently kissed the hobbit's curls and whispered, "Do not weep so bitterly. I am near to you and your kin. I will help you hold on. And I send one who has dwelled in the house of Nienna, who knows the way of patience and pity. But you must use your wits and your heart to protect those who are most weak and vulnerable. Put away darkness, and rise up to greet the morning."

In the next instant, Child was awakened by the sound of songbirds which had lit on her window ledge to greet the first hint of dawn.

[ August 08, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]