[piosenniel]

Olo and Holly made their way through the kitchen, stopped only once by the cook who was just setting up things for next morning's breakfast. 'And where might you young folk be going?' she said, standing directly in their path with her arms crossed across her chest.

'It's Olo, Goodmistress! Surely you recognize me. I've brought my friend Holly back to meet you. She was going on so about your delicious pies that I said I would take her to the source.'

Holly came forward, and made a small curtsy to the cook. 'Your pies are so wonderful, ma'am! They remind me of the one's my dear mother used to bake. I just had to meet you!' She smiled winsomely at the woman in front of her.

The cooks mouth began to twitch, and her shoulders followed. She let out a long hearty laugh, and wiped the tears from her eyes. The two hobbits looked at each other, befuddled.

'Now what is it you two really want from me?'asked the cook.

'But we really do like your pies!' chimed the hobbits in unison. 'And,' said Olo, looking at Holly, 'We would like the use of your back door if it wouldn't be too much trouble.'

'Go on, then.' said the cook, shooing them toward the rear entrance. 'You've given me a good laugh for the night.' She looked at them thoughtfully and added,'Be careful, you two. There are strange comings and goings of late. Stick close to the inn, and don't go off wandering.'

They went quietly out the door, checking carefuly for any sign of the all too helpful Ranger. They were halfway across the courtyard to the stable when they saw Arcon exit from the front door and stride down the path.