The Lonely Star -- Chapter 4

[Child of the 7th Age]

Cami looked over at Bird and laughed. She didn't answer the question directly, but retorted with an observation of her own. "I can see there is only one in this group with a shred of common sense. And, at least for today, I fear that title can go neither to the Elf or shapechanger. But perhaps, with time and patience, I may make something of you yet!"

"Bird, you need to linger with Pio a moment in her cabin. I believe she has some news for you."

Bird looked a bit puzzled as she watched the small hobbit take charge and ceremoniously guide her friend over to the chair and set her down with great authority.

"Stay there until I get back!" she ordered. "I'm going upstairs to find Ancalimon and Mithadan, and ask them to come to your cabin. I'll tell them my idea, and they can use their minds to sort it out and see if it's of any worth."

For she did indeed have an idea which might set her friend's mind at ease or, at the very worst, confirm exactly what they were up against. Cami knew little of Osanwe or the machinations of the Shadow, but she certainly knew something of hobbit stealth. And she remembered a rather important event in the Third Age. That time, the forces of goodness had called upon a hobbit's ability to slip through the shadows in silence and practice deception, even in the very heart of darkness. Perhaps their own situation, although humbler in origin, would need similar skills.

Cami thought how she would love to volunteer for such a task. In her mind, she pictured herself breaking into the hobbit tombs and slinking about to get the needed information. Then common sense interjected. If Nitir or Azra were to show up at the foot of Eru's Mount, their presence would not remain secret very long. No, it could not be her or Rose, however much they might like it.

As she stood in the doorway pondering, she saw Daisy race by with a packet of blankets in her hand. Cami looked at her retreating figure as she sprinted down the corridor. Daisy was young and bright and daring. She knew how to act as a servant and certainly had skills of deception, judging from how she'd first come aboard the Star and remained hidden for several days. But did she have the required sense of judgment and responsibility? It was certainly a risk.

Just as Cami was about to set out to find the men, she heard Bird mention to Pio, "I think Levanto returned, and he specifically asked to speak with Mithadan. The two may be together."

All color left Pio's face, as she struggled to throw off the shapechanger's hand and get up from the chair. Cami turned around and gave stern orders, "Bird, keep her in the cabin one way or the other, until I get back with the men!" Bird nodded. Cami had a wry image of her friend changing into a dragon and guarding the doorway with large blasts of flame. Whatever is needed, she thought!

"And you," she said, wagging her finger at the Elf, "had better remember your promise to me." Then the hobbit turned and disappeared.

[ September 28, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]