[Child of the 7th Age]

Andreth had been walking along the road in silence for some time. She had decided to proceed on foot, with her belongings tossed over Whinney's back. Every so often, she stared over at her pack to make sure that it was still tightly fastened. Most of the time she listened to what others were saying, or looked about at the changing kaleidoscope of light and color, trying to get a good idea for her next tapestry from the scenery that was passing. She held a small sketch pad, and occasionally jotted down notes, or even a very rough drawing to remind her of something she'd seen.

Andreth had thought long and hard on what Gandalf had said to her before they departed. He had called her an 'Elf-friend.' That was indeed a compliment, although she was puzzled as to its exact meaning. Perhaps, she'd learn more on this journey.

To be truthful, she'd never even seen an Elf until this very day. But Andreth knew she herself was named after an Elf-friend, a woman of the First Age who had been close to Finrod and his house. She'd heard plenty of Elvish lore from her father, and had defended Elves against the aspersions of her more suspicious neighbors time and time again. She'd even heard an insult or two hurled in her own direction when she spoke out on their behalf. She wasn't sure if that qualified her as an Elf-friend.

Just at that instant, the sun came out from under a cloud. With the bright sunlight streaming down on the road, she got her first close look at Holly, one of the hobbits who seemed to know Gandalf quite well. She'd noticed her once early on at the Inn, but had been afraid to approach because of that crotchety-looking woman who'd stood close to her, staring down her nose at Andreth. But the ill-natured woman was evidently gone.

Then Andreth saw that Holly wore a fine woolen vest. Its bright colors, so beloved by most hobbits, looked familiar. So familiar, that she couldn't resist saying something, "Holly, I wanted to tell you a secret," Andreth sidled over towards the girl. "I wove the material for the vest you have on. It was a long time ago, one of my first pieces, so I never forgot it. I'm from Bree. That's where our shop is. Have you ever been there?"

[ November 20, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]