[Child of the 7th Age]

Child stood with Piosenniel on the deck of the ship. A short while before, when Piosenniel had declined to answer questions about her background, there had been an awkward moment of silence between the women. Now, with their companions in apparent danger, all other thoughts and divisions had vanished. Though separated by different form and visage, both women were now bound together by their common concern.

Child gazed into Pio's eyes, her fear for Kali and Daisy and Rose mirrored openly on her face. The hobbit whispered to her friend, "I know what Birdland is thinking, but I don't believe this is some contrivance by Daisy to strike out at Kali. Even though the little one's grief is far from healed, I believe that she is loyal at heart, and would not reach out in anger towards us."

Pio shook her head in agreement, "I feel that you're speaking the truth. But Birdland must reach that decision and trust on her own time and in her own way. Until she accepts Daisy in her heart, nothing that we say or do can change her feelings."

At that instant, both Pio and Child heard reassuring words from Angara ringing in their minds. "I have seen it, an island. Their boat is moored there. I believe they are safe. Bird and I will investigate."

Piosenniel took Child's hand in her own, squeezing it in reassurance.

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