Chapter 46: The Entmoot Decides
Back at the Ent Moot, Treebeard and the Ents discussed again about Saruman. After finishing their deliberations…
Treebeard finally returned to the hobbits a second time, they quickly stood-up from where they had been lounging, to meet him. But… they may not like what Treebeard was about to tell them…
"…The Ents cannot hold back this storm," Treebeard announced.
"How can that be your decision?" Hunter asked angrily.
This is not our war," Treebeard explained.
"But you're part of this world!" Hunter shouted in frustration, "…aren't you?"
In response… the Ents gazed at one another, taken back by Hunter's exasperation…
"you must help, please! You must do something." Hunter said in agreement.
you are young and brave. Master Hunter. But your parts in this tale are over. Go back to your homes." Treebeard said reasonably.
Hunter looks around, deeply disappointed. Later he is putting on his coat and Blake walks up to him
"Maybe Treebeard's right. We don't belong here. It's too big for us. What can we do in the end? We've got the Shire, Hunter… we all should go home." said Blake.
Merry went on, staring out into the distance, "the fires of Isengard will spread. And the woods of Tuckborough and Buckland will burn. And… "
Hunter turned to Blake, continuing his sorrowful explanation, "…and all that was once green and good in this world will be gone."
Blake froze in his standing, unable to find anything to say after hearing Hunter's gloomy remarks about the future of the Shire, as well as for Middle-Earth.
He put a hand on Blake's shoulder, ending sadly, "…there won't be a Shire, Blake."