Laurie drew out yet another white dress and slipped it over her head. Wearing white was a kind of fetish with her; it had always been her favorite colour back at home in Rohan and she had grown up listening to the tales of other famous "White Women" as she called them in her head: The high queen Galadriel; her own kinsman, Eowyn; and from the oldest stories, Aredhel, Lady of the Noldor. She had always dreamed of being like those famous and beautiful women, brave and strong and valient. Now she was out in a strange land having her own adventures. It was odd that it was at this moment she was reminded most strongly of her homeland... Laurie brushed her golden mane once more, then tossing her head like a proud filly, she left the room and descended down the stairs.
There was a large crowd gathered in the parlour, and Laurie stood to the side for a moment taking in the scene. The guests had arrived, and many of the customers were present, already mingling around. A crowd of little hobbit children surrounded a frail, white-haired hobbit Laurie knew must be Bilbo. He unattached himself from them and made his way to the food where he was met by a man she faintly recognized. Another glance, revealed Pio sitting down and looking rather tired (She works too hard, Laurie thought with concern), and Cami talking merrily with old aquaintences. As Bilbo looked quite occupied with filling his plate, Laurie decided to wait to introduce herself. There was an empty seat nearby, out of the way of the crowd, so she decided to get her own vittles later.
She realized disconcertly she was not sitting alone when a voice said quietly, "Hello." Laurie turned around quickly and was suprised to see a hobbit she didn't recognize sitting right beside her. He was pale, but his eyes were bright and deep. There was wisdom reflected in them; wisdom yes, but pain also. With a shock, Laurie realized who this small hobbit must be.
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