[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 ]