[Child of the 7th Age]

Cami knew from experience there was no use trying to bludgeon information out of the elusive Piosenniel. Her best guise would be to initiate a conversation, and then see if any helpful information came spilling or, more likely, trickling out. That might or might not be successful, but it was the best strategy she could manage.

"Actually, Pio, the Star needs a number of things. We're almost out of flour and drinking water and fruit. When we planned our provisions, we thought the hobbits would be staying only a few days. We didn't count on thirty hobbrim being on board several weeks before the rescue. I wouldn't mind going myself to pick up those things in the skiff, but Mithadan keeps reminding me I mustn't be seen. Plus, there's another problem."

"Yes," said Pio, "And what might that be?" She looked positively cheerful at the mention of a problem.

"Ancalimon was speaking to me about the kind of supplies the hobbits would need for the Anduin. Apparently, the Elven ships are carrying a number of these items like small weapons, fishing nets, farming tools, even seed. Anything and everything the three clans would require to settle in. But he's still concerned about some things in short supply, especially herbs and healing potions. He and Mithadan spoke about it this evening."

"When I heard they were planning on taking the skiff out in the morning, I also asked them to pick up the foodstuffs that the Star needed. I think it will take them a good day and a half to do all that. And Mith insisted they must be careful not to purchase too much from any one vendor, lest the men of Numenor become suspicious."

At this point, the Elf was positively beaming.

"Pio, exactly what did you have in mind?"

[ October 07, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]