Three black cats entered Beruthiel's private garden. Two came in together, walking side by side, one alert, tail held high, the other with a tail swish and flick of the ears that indicated to feline and human alike that she was bored with the whole thing. Following close behind, the smallest of the three stalked haughtily through an outer gate. Lome, Morna, and Huine had returned.
Though humans would likely not notice it, they all smelled strongly of fish and water to feline senses. Morna walked to where the queen and her maid were talking and wove her way through Beruthiel's ankles, letting her know they were back and all was well. The Queen absentmindedly reached down and scratched the large cat's ears, and Morna arched her back, purring.
Lome fought the urge to join Morna at the Queen's ankles and looked around for Miaama, it was her job to report in. The trip to the harbor, while a pleasant change, hadn't garnered much new information, but she could tell the white cat the little they had found out, the rumors of the heir's ship being spotted much sooner than expected at the mouth of the Anduin.
Lome spotted Athel, Lassra, and Arye in conversation behind the queen's bench. Mosi was distracted, as usual. The older cat joined the others by the bench and felt, more than heard, Huine following her.
Where is Miaama? Lome inquired of the others, interrupting what seemed to be an intense conversation. We need to check in.
Athel turned to the newcomers and narrowed her eyes at them. I was just explaining why to Lassra and Arye, but I can start over.
Why not tell us why you aren't with your sister and brother taking news of the heir's arrival while you're at it. Huine interrupted. Or are you so irresponsible that you just leave the hard stuff to them?
Athel hissed and her ears flattened against her skull. She looked ready to pounce, but it was Lome who cuffed Huine, before the smaller cat had a chance to attack.
Let her explain, Huine. You don't help anything with your attitude.
Huine snarled in response, but held back her words.
Good. Now, Athel, where is Miaama? Lome continued.
But before the cat could begin her explanation again the queen suddenly stood, looking about her as if missing something for the first time. She asked Habeth something about Miaama and the maid shrugged her shoulders. The knot of cats dissolved into individuals again and several of them went to the queen, trying to soothe her mood. She looked down, as if to ask them where their leader was, but was interrupted by the slam of the inner door.
"I should have known!" the voice of Morwen split the peace of the garden. "My lady, you are already late for dinner with your husband. The cats can wait." And, throwing a deadly glance at the cowed Habeth, she escorted the queen away.
[ July 15, 2003: Message edited by: Gelion ]
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