She laughs. "It's tragic that might put Celebrimbor in an awkward position..."

'She would do it for you.'

Smile. "I'm starting to even believe that..."

"But... I don't want to put her in a difficult situation unless I have to. And even if she's - not emotionally bothered or something," she says, in the tone of someone who's never quite figured out why many people are emotionally bothered, "She could lose the resources of the Mirdain and of Eregion, and her connections among the other elves, possibly forever..."

'The wider guild would not necessarily need to know.'

"I don't think it'd be - easy, to hide that from them forever."

'The road to greatness is rarely easy, else it would see more traffic. But yes, I acknowledge your point. There are risks involved. But the elves here... have a great love of crafting. They thirst for knowledge, seek it endlessly to improve themselves. And Celebrimbor dictates the fashion of the times. Were she to be persuaded of the necessity, of the opportunity, it may be, with careful guidance, that the rest would follow her lead.'

"...Maybe."

"I still don't know - if she'd be happier with that than with a more - socially acceptable path, I guess."

'Something to keep in mind, at least.'

"Do you think she'd be - bothered, by even being asked?"

'I think it would depend on context and phrasing. Foregrounding the importance to you, personally, seems likely to help.'

" - I might need - help, with that."

'We would be more than happy to provide that.'

"Thanks."

The ring radiates contentment.

"I'm glad we have the two of you."

'We are excellent allies.'

"And better friends."

'Yes,' the ring agrees.

"A good turn... And Annatar's a refreshingly odd person."

'She is the best person.' Considering pause. 'For me. Possibly Celebrimbor is better, for you.'

Laugh! "She is, for me. But Annatar and you are up there."

'Good. We like you too.'

"I've noticed."

'Impressive powers of observation,' the ring teases.

"It was a lucky guess."