[Child of the 7th Age]

Child breathed a sigh of relief. She and Rose would not have to slip out and skulk about the streets to set up a secret meeting. It appeared they were to have an official audience with the King. But before there were any thoughts of a new dress or skirt, something else needed to be done.

Child slipped out of the group as Mithadan left the deck. She extended her arm to his shoulder and gently guided him to the rail for a private conversation.

"Mithadan, I have a great favour to ask when we go to see the King. Is it possible to request that Aragorn set up a meeting for us with Lord Faramir before we leave Minas Tirith? This meeting needs to include at least myself and Kali, although I'd be very happy if others decided to come as well."

Mithadan looked slyly at Child, "Mistress Goodchilde, I thought you had reached the age when a handsome face no longer turned your eye so quickly."

Child laughed softly, but shook her head, "No, it isn't that. Kali is having dreams of a great flood. I can only assume that these dreams focus on the kingdom of Numenor. I am aware that Lord Faramir has had a number of visions as well. Perhaps, if the two could speak, or if Faramir could ask the hobbrim questions, Kali may remember things which he has not yet revealed to us."

Child then went ahead and explained to Mithadan what Kali had told her about his ancestors. She told how he and his friends had been separated from the other hobbits, and how they believed Ulmo had called to them to begin living in the Sea. Then she spoke the sad tale of how the little group had sailed east and, over the years, dwindled in numbers until he alone was left. Mithadan appeared thoughtful and said, "We shall see. It is not a bad idea."

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