It had been years since the War of the Ring and things in Hobbiton were back on track. That is, as far as it could be. The hobbits were scarred for life for the things they experienced. Samwise, however, had the help of his bride Rosie and his little children to keep his mind in order. And Meriadoc and Estella were grateful bad times were over.
But poor Peregrin Took. Diamond proved false after his year away. She ran off with the North-farthing rouge Halfred, brother of Samwise. He spent most of his time in bed at his hobbit-hole, not bothering to wake. His heart ached, his stomach growled, and everybody noticed.
Especially Merry.
Merry grew aware of his distant cousin's illness, and wished many times to help. But Pippin never wanted interference.
'You know, Pip,' Merry stated. 'There's talk about of a strange visitor over at Bag End. Most think it's a reletive of Frodo. What do you say we go have a look-see?'
'If it's any Lortho, Ponto, Porto, Peony, Poppy, Sancho, Mosco, Moro, Myrtle, or Minto, I am not risking recognition. Just leave me be.'
'It has been three years since we came back and you found Diamond's note. Will you ever get over it?'
'No, Merry, I don't think I ever shall. In my heart there is a void, a void none could ever fill. I am weak, Merry. I wish I die.'
'Don't talk like that! Pippin, let's just go to Bag End and see what the happenings are. There are strange folks at Frodo's, and I will not stand for it. No relatives of ours are they. Come, Pippin, get out of that bed and follow. You need sunlight on your pale face and wounded heart. It will be good for you.'
And with that, Pippin rose werily out of bed, dressed up his rags, and followed Merry outside. He flinched at the sun for it had been three years since he saw it last. All the memories of the Shire came rushing back like a tidal wave of water. The emerald green grass, the tall evergreens, fresh tilled earth, good food and ale. He almost completely forgot Diamond. He was filled with joy once more. At least as much joy as a broken heart would lend.
Merry and Pippin ran silently down to Bag End. They saw carriages like none they've ever seen. Five hobbits were unloading into Bag End. Merry and Pippin became enraged to see strange hobbits loading into Frodo's home.
Just then, something tapped them on the shoulders and they spun around in haste.
'Now wait a minute, I didn't mean to scare you!'
'Sam!' spoke Pippin. 'You scared me half to death.'
'Sorry, there was no mean to do that.'
'Who are these strange folks, Sam?' asked Merry.
'Some distant relatives of Master Frodo. I sent them a letter from him allowing them to move into Bag End. Actually, only one will be living there actually. Brynhild Baggins, Frodo's first cousin.'
'I've never herd of Brynhild,' said Merry. 'Why was she never spoken of?'
'I don't know. I guess it's because she lived on the far end of the North-farthing. A rouge's land that is. But she was welcomed back due to her unparticipation of the scoundrel's doings. I've already spoken to her. She's a nice girl...'
Pippin heard none beyond this. His attention was suddenly tracked by something he's never seen before. The most beautiful flower of the Shire.
Brynhild.
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