It took quite some time for Evelina's expected visitors, especially Bandolin (as she noted with exasperation), to arrive. As a result, she was quite short-tempered, even more so than usual, which was never a good thing with Evelina. Finally Bandolin appeared through the dark forest, and they clustered together.
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"Yeah, why are we here? And what's the pay" Bandolin asked, a greedy glint in his eye.
Evelina answered "Alright, here's the plan..."
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"But before I begin, let me make two things clear. You both will arrive on time, a delay such as the one made tonight could mess up our plans. And Bandolin, you will address me as Evelina, Miss Evelina, or simply as 'you' but never," and her black eyes flashed dangerously, "as 'woman'. Is that understood?"
Bandolin looked sullen, but decided it best not to argue with Evelina in such a foul mood. She waited till he grunted in assent before beginning once more.
"Right, on to the job. A local hobbit, Lobelia Sackville-Baggins, (I'm sure you have heard of her wealth and despisement for the Baggins up at Bag End) has given me news of a large party planned to celebrate Mad Baggins and his nephew, Frodo's, birthday. Frodo is not to know of the event, however, so plans are being made right now all over the Shire to acquire provisions secretly for the party. That is where we come in." At this, her voice lowered, not from fear of being overheard but from anticipation. "Lobelia has hired us and yes, there will be payment!" She added quickly as Jasper and Bandolin both opened their mouths to inquire. "Plenty of gold." And she drew out the small leather purse, giving it an extra shake, making the coins jangle merrily inside. She drew out a few coins and flicked them to her comrades before continuing.
"There will be more later, and I expect we can get more out of Miss Lobelia if needed." Evelina gave a laugh that would be merry if there was not a steely note hidden inside. Her face was serious the next moment, however, and very business-like. "But our job is to scare the hobbits, set them off the idea of having this little party, and send them to hide trembling in their hobbit holes. Lobelia has given us free reign as to the methods of scaring them, so I suggest we become very creative." She laughed again, and surveyed the faces watching her carefully.