Trust No One - Aiden and Frodo do have some common ground that will make
their friendship a strong one. I will try to pop over and check out your
new fic on my day off, when I'm left at last to my own devices.
Gayalondiel - Yes, we have happy, fluffy comfort for now. It's much deserved! Now to get Bilbo and Merry to Bree. Will they make it before anything else can happen? Answers ahead!
Aelfgifu - I have a feeling I owe you a lot of thanks for this story's success so far. You've drawn attention to it by plugging it as you update RATM, and I thank you! It seemed natural to have Aiden and Frodo share some common ground. It's one more thing that will help establish trust between them, and right now Frodo really needs someone he can trust!
Aratlithiel - I think we have a possible nominee for president of Aiden's fanclub! Merry and Bilbo are going to have some time for heart - to - heart discussion as they journey to Bree.
Krista - Falling for Aiden? You and Aratlithiel might be in contention for the fanclub presidency! He is exactly what Frodo needs right now - someone he truly can trust.
Camellia Gamgee - Took - You're right. Frodo does need to realize that there are people who do care for him. Glad you like Aiden. He's gaining a good following.
Daisy Brambleburr - It was definitely intended that Frodo and Aiden share a similar experience. It will strengthen their friendship. I was happy to review your story. It's coming along nicely!
Shirebound - We've given Frodo a respite from the discomfort and fear of earlier chapters. Glad you enjoyed the details of the last chapter. There will be a lot of details in this one too!
Distortion - Thanks for coming by! I loved your response about thinking at first that the two hobbits selling Frodo was a little far - fetched. I thought so at first too, but then I started thinking about the historical perspective. Ship captains sometimes ended up with crew through similar means, and people have sold each other into slavery for thousands of years. You're right as well that youths can be amazing in the things they'll get up to even today. I'm glad you're enjoying the story and I hope you'll stay with us as it continues.
Endymion - Frodo believes Bilbo would come for him, but he's none too sure that the truth of his presence in Bree has gotten out. It may have been an odd notion for Frodo to seek solitude during one of Bilbo's visits, and those who actually know him well were thinking about that. That's why Merry got so nervous so quickly. As for Frodo being taken from Bree by whomever purchased him, that was indeed a possibility. It looks like he's going to be staying put in Bree for the time being, though.
TTTurtle - A little love and beauty in the midst of Frodo's trials, certainly. Waiting in trepidation to see if it will last? Stay with us!
Bookworm2000 - Thanks for joining in! It remains to be seen whether Saradoc will help or hinder Bilbo and Merry in their journey. Right now his mission is to keep Merry from getting into trouble. Will he succeed? You'll find out in the next few chapters!
Iorhael - Frodo is priceless, isn't he? I don't know about Aiden, but there are a lot of people around here who wouldn't mind keeping him!
Ilmare - I'm glad Aiden has restored your faith in the Big Folk. He has restored Frodo's as well.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Chapter 12 - A Walk With A Friend
~*~Brandy Hall, Buckland, the next morning~*~
Esmeralda Brandybuck dabbed at her eyes with a handkerchief while Saradoc strapped his pack to the pony's back. "I'll be fine, Esmie," he was saying. "I'll catch up with them in no time and I'll bring Merry home safely." The pony stamped and snorted, as if in agreement with his words.
"Be careful, Sara," Esmie said through her tears. "I don't like any of this, not one little bit."
"I'm none too fond of the idea myself, Love, but Merry must not go to Bree. He is too young, and Bilbo is too unpredictable." He gave the pony a scratch behind one ear. "I'll be back before you know it, and we'll get to the bottom of this whole thing with Frodo."
"You don't really believe that story about Frodo being sold to the Big Folk, do you?" Esmeralda queried, looking sidelong at her husband.
"I know it sounds outrageous, but I don't quite know what to think, Esmie." Saradoc shook his head in frustration. "I know those older boys have made Frodo's life rather difficult from time to time, but something like that would be going entirely too far. If by any chance it is true, they cannot be allowed to stay at the Hall."
Esmeralda nodded in assent. "We can deal with them later, but please, Sara. Bring our son back immediately!"
Saradoc nodded. After a hug and a kiss goodbye, he mounted the pony and rode away up the path and toward the ferry. Once across the Brandywine he would follow the Bree Road. With any luck he would catch up with Bilbo and Merry within a day or so. When he did, he had a few choice words for Bilbo Baggins! He was welcome to entertain all the strange notions he pleased, but that old fool was crossing the line when it came to Merry. No son of his was going off on an ill - advised and dangerous journey with that cracked oldster. Dragons, Dwarves, Wizards, and now this!
Saradoc sighed as he led his pony onto the wooden ferry and released it from its mooring. If Merry was getting up to mischief like this already, what were his tween years going to be like? At least Paladin's young lad, Peregrin, was too young to trouble him in such fashion. Word of Merry's antics would surely travel to the Great Smials, and come next Yule, Saradoc could expect Paladin to get a good laugh at his expense. Let Paladin Took have his bit of mirth, thought Saradoc. Soon enough that lad of his would be headed for his tweens and as much trouble as he could find, and they'd see who had a good laugh then!
~*~ Aiden's home, Bree~*~
Sunlight streamed in through the window and across the face of a young hobbit, who blinked sleepily and opened his eyes. For the briefest of moments, Frodo cast his gaze about the room in fear and confusion. His mind began to clear and he remembered where he was and how he had come to be there.
He had slept soundly, giving himself over to the relief of being in a safe place. He was still rather astounded at the strange but welcome turn of events that had brought him into Aiden's company.
He slipped out from under the covers and crossed the room to the dresser. Folded neatly atop it were a clean shirt and breeches. Like the nightshirt, they were a good fit, well - made and comfortable. He thought about the little boy who had worn them before and wondered what he was like. If he had been anything like his father, he had been a good lad indeed, and Middle Earth was a sadder place for his passing.
Frodo stopped at the washbasin and scrubbed his face quickly, pausing to run his fingers through his hair. Having made himself presentable, he stepped out of the room and into the parlor to find Aiden seated at a table, making notes in a small book. The man looked up as Frodo entered the room, and smiled.
"Did you sleep well?" he asked, closing the book and rising to his feet. Frodo looked nothing like the pale, disoriented prisoner he had beheld at the inn. It was a relief to see the transformation, and Aiden shuddered inwardly as he thought of what might have been.
"Yes, thank you," Frodo replied, grinning. "How long was I asleep?"
"Since late yesterday afternoon," Aiden told him. "You look much better." He again stepped forward and felt Frodo's forehead. "I think the fever is gone as well."
"What are you working on?" Frodo asked curiously. The little book and a quill pen lay on the table nearby.
"Just some plans for the day," Aiden answered. "I have a couple of orders of Old Toby to fill and a trip to make to the market." He regarded Frodo thoughtfully. "In fact, if you're feeling up to it, you could come along. The air would be good for you, and I would be glad of the company."
"That sounds splendid," Frodo answered. His eyes roved across the room and fell upon a discarded tray of breakfast dishes. He crossed the room quickly and retrieved it, taking it to the kitchen.
"Frodo, what are you doing?" Aiden asked him, watching as the little hobbit stood upon a chair and started washing up the dishes.
"I'm helping you, " Frodo replied cheerfully. "It's the very least I can do, after everything you've done for me." Perhaps he could repay the man's kindness in small ways.
"Thank you, Frodo, but that will be quite enough help for now. I believe you've missed breakfast, and that must be remedied," Aiden replied, gently turning the hobbit aside from the washbasin.
Frodo looked at the clock on the mantelpiece and laughed. "I've missed first and second breakfast, and it's almost time for elevenses! I suppose I was tired indeed," he acknowledged. Why did Aiden have such an odd expression on his face, Frodo wondered?
"As often as I have traveled to the Shire, many of its customs are still unknown to me, apparently," the man said with amusement. "First and second breakfast? Elevenses? Can you explain these to a poor, confused Big Person?"
Frodo reddened, feeling rather embarrassed. "Although we hobbits are small, our appetites, generally speaking, are not." He smiled, thinking of what a normal day at Brandy Hall consisted of in terms of food preparation, not to mention an event of any size. "We eat several meals a day, starting with first and second breakfast, followed by elevenses, luncheon, afternoon tea, dinner and supper."
Aiden couldn't help laughing out loud. "How extraordinary! I suppose I had better make some changes to that market list of mine, if I'm to provide properly for you." What other surprising things would Frodo have to teach him about his people?
"The last thing I want is to be a burden to you, Aiden," Frodo said, feeling guilty. "I promise I shall not eat you out of house and home, and I shall earn my keep as well as I am able."
"If you are insistent upon putting yourself to good use, I suppose I could find some tasks for you to assist me with," Aiden said thoughtfully. "Would that ease your mind, young one?"
"Yes, very much so," Frodo replied. Even if all he could do was tidy up and help with errands, Frodo was determined to make himself useful.
"Very well, you can help me with the dishes," Aiden told him, "but not until you have had a proper meal yourself. Elevenses? Is that the term?"
"It is indeed," Frodo laughed, finding it amusing to see the man attempting valiantly to understand the strange customs of the Shire Folk. He wondered what other things the Big Folk did differently, and looked forward to learning more of them and their ways.
After a brief meal, Frodo assisted Aiden with clearing up the dishes and sweeping the hearth. Satisfied with the condition of the house, they stepped out into the sunshine. A crisp, early Autumn day greeted them, and they made their way through the streets at a comfortable pace.
"This is your first real look at Bree, is it not?" Aiden asked. Frodo looked up at him and nodded. As they walked, Aiden pointed out different landmarks and told Frodo a few things about the town and its people.
"Did you know there are a number of your kind who dwell here?" The hobbits of Bree were not present in large numbers, but they were an integral part of the population, living mostly in smials in the hills above the town proper.
Frodo nodded. He had heard there were hobbits in Bree. He hadn't seen any of them as yet, but he hoped to. It would be comforting to see some of his own kind in this unfamiliar environment.
"I am acquainted with some of the families," Aiden informed his companion. "In fact, the two orders of Old Toby I'll be filling today are for Otto Mugwort, who owns a fine bakery, and Anton Burrows, the bookseller. I should like you to meet them."
"I would like that very much," Frodo replied happily. The two worked their way through the milling crowds. The Bree Folk were going about their usual routines, and the streets were filled with people and horse - drawn carts. The clatter of hooves and cart wheels upon the cobblestones mingled with the sounds of merchants haggling with customers and shouts of greeting between acquaintances.
Before long, Frodo and Aiden were standing before the door of a small shop. The delicious smell of freshly - baked bread and pastries floated out to greet them. "This is Master Mugwort's shop," Aiden told Frodo. "His bread is without equal, as you will discover shortly."
As they walked in, a middle - aged hobbit with curly rust brown hair and round jovial features turned to greet them. "Master Aiden! A good day to you," Mugwort said cheerfully.
"Master Mugwort, a pleasure as always," Aiden responded, and gestured to Frodo. "I should like you to meet my guest, Frodo Baggins. Frodo, Otto Mugwort."
Frodo and Mugwort bowed politely to each other. "Baggins, eh? You must be from the Shire, as I don't know of any by that name here in Bree," Mugwort said conversationally.
"Yes, Master Mugwort, I am from Buckland," Frodo replied politely. "I also have family in Hobbiton."
Mugwort's brow furrowed as he thought about this. "Hobbiton, you say? Who was your grandfather, boy?"
"My Grandfather was Fosco Baggins, who married Ruby Bolger," Frodo answered. "His father was Largo Baggins."
"Didn't his sister Lily marry Togo Goodbody?" Mugwort asked. When Frodo nodded, he continued. "We may just have some family in common, young Frodo, for I've a share of Goodbodies for cousins," Mugwort said with a grin.
"I've a few as well, Master Mugwort. Let's see. There's Ivan, Ponto, Daisy, Pansy - " Frodo continued the litany for some moments as Mugwort nodded occasionally in recognition. All the while, Aiden stood with a rather dumbfounded look. Were all the hobbits from Bree to the Westfarthing related to each other? How incredibly complex their families must be!
Noticing the perplexed expression on the man's face, Mugwort smiled. "I think we're tiring Master Aiden with our list of relations," he said, chortling.
Frodo realized that Aiden looked rather confused indeed. "Forgive me please," he said, looking up at his newfound friend. "Hobbits have very detailed genealogical history. For the most part, all the families have relatives in common somewhere, it just takes a little searching to find them."
"So every time you meet one another, you may be talking to a member of your family?" Amazing. Aiden was sure he would not know his fourth cousin from the Steward of Gondor, should they meet in the marketplace. Yet Frodo and Master Mugwort, given the time to talk for a few minutes, would know their exact relationship to each other although they had never met before.
"Quite so, Master Aiden," Mugwort answered him. He then paused and sniffed the air thoughtfully. "A moment, if you will, please. I think I've a batch of loaves ready to come out of the ovens."
"Aiden says your bread is of the finest quality, and I have no doubt of it," Frodo sniffed the air appreciatively.
Mugwort's laugh rang out. "Been telling you tales, has he?" He smirked at Aiden. "Not surprising, rascal that he is!" Mugwort disappeared behind a curtain for a few moments, and returned with a satisfied look on his face. As Aiden drew a small pouch from a pocket, Mugwort sighed and grinned. "Ah, now there's a sight of a welcome kind."
"Yes indeed, Master Mugwort. Here's a bit of Old Toby for you, as scheduled. I fear I may be a bit short of supplies for a little while, so please be patient with me," Aiden told the hobbit, elaborating further as he saw Frodo blush just a little. "I've been quite busy, you know, and my travels are delayed by worthwhile necessity."
"Old Toby is worth the wait, Master Aiden," Mugwort said as he stepped behind a counter. He withdrew several coins from a pouch and passed them to Aiden, accepting the pipeweed in return. "Are you in need of anything for yourselves today?" he inquired, quirking an eyebrow at them.
"Yes, we do need some of that fine bread of yours," Aiden replied. "Better make it two loaves, if you please," he said, remembering the lesson in hobbit culture and customs he had learned earlier that morning.
"Two it is, good sir," Mugwort replied, wrapping the still - warm bread and handing it to Aiden. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Master Baggins, and I hope your stay in Bree is enjoyable."
"Thank you, Master Mugwort," Frodo said, reaching to take the loaves from Aiden's hands. "I have not been disappointed so far. Bree is quite an interesting place." Indeed, it seemed rather strange to Frodo to see the Big Folk and the hobbits of Bree living and working so closely together. Big Folk were often regarded with suspicion in Buckland, and most hobbits kept their distance from them.
They stopped next at the bookshop, and were greeted by Anton Burrows, a bright - eyed hobbit who moved and spoke briskly, his mind and hands always busy. He paused from dusting a shelf to greet them. "Welcome, Aiden!" Burrows enthused. "I've finished repairing the binding of those books for you." His eyes lit up a little brighter. "Have you anything for me today, perhaps?"
"Only a bit of pipeweed, my friend," Aiden said, adopting an attitude of mock apology. "No Longbottom Leaf, I'm afraid. You'll have to settle for Old Toby."
"Teasing me, are you?" Burrows whacked Aiden playfully in the leg with the duster that he held. "As if Old Toby is something one merely settles for!" He noted Frodo's presence with curiosity. "And who might your companion be?"
Aiden introduced Frodo, and having become acquainted with the custom earlier at Mugwort's shop, he was no longer surprised when they spoke until they found they had a Boffin or two in common.
As Aiden finished his transactions with Burrows, Frodo cast his gaze about at the books around him. He closed his eyes and breathed in the scent of ink, leather bindings and paper, thinking it as fragrant as flowers. This was even better than the library at Brandy Hall!
As Aiden tucked a couple of small books away, he noted Frodo's rapt stare. "Fond of books, are you?"
Frodo nodded, still looking around him joyously. "The library back home is one of my favorite places," he replied. "I spent hours there, reading anything I could find," Frodo said, a little wistfully.
"Fear not, Frodo," Aiden said kindly. "You shall do so again, I promise you." Small wonder the lad was homesick, Aiden thought. A journey is one thing, but removal by force from one's home was bound to engender a kind of homesickness far stronger than any other sort.
They bade farewell to the bookseller and made their way into the crowded market. Aiden passed a basket to Frodo, and they wove in and out among the stalls and booths, chatting amiably and filling the basket with fruits and vegetables. Anyone who saw them together would have assumed they had been friends for years, not merely hours as they laughed and conversed easily.
~*~
The man turned and followed them with his eyes as they passed, watching their progress coldly. A sneer came to his lips as he recognized the man and the halfling at his side. That snotty young fellow had boldly outbid him for the halfling, making him look like a no - account fool.
And just look at the little creature, walking by his side like an equal! He didn't hold with the Bree Folk and how they mixed with the halflings and transacted business with them. Down South, where he was from, halflings were a rare sight, and usually were the property of another. Some were servants, some were, well, wage - earners, for lack of a better term.
He had been given the opportunity to get one for himself while in Bree, and had his chance taken from him by that fancy talking young snip. He watched Aiden and Frodo as they walked through the marketplace, and took up following at a distance. He wanted to know where the young man lived. He might have missed his chance at the halfling once, but he had an idea that might rectify that situation.
Aiden and Frodo proceeded on their way, unaware of the unfriendly eyes that watched them and the footsteps that shadowed theirs.
~*~The Bree road, nightfall~*~
Merry tossed his bedroll down and spread it out against the ground. Bilbo did likewise as the sounds of the night began to close in around them. They had placed more wood upon the fire and it burned brightly, casting light and warmth upon the travelers.
"A good day's journey, young Meriadoc," Bilbo observed. "If the weather holds, we'll get to Bree in no time at all."
Merry merely nodded. He was rather preoccupied with thoughts of what was undoubtedly going on back at Brandy Hall. His father would have found his message by now, and his mother would be beside herself with worry. At the start of the journey, he had been so caught up in the idea of going to Frodo's aid, he hadn't given much thought to other matters. Now, on the road with nightfall encroaching, guilt for his actions crept up on him and attached itself to his spirit, gnawing at him.
"Merry, lad, you're a bit quiet," Bilbo prompted him. "Share your thoughts with an old hobbit, my boy." He stirred the fire and sat, waiting expectantly.
Merry stared into the flames as he spoke, knowing it was futile to try to hide what he was thinking from the sharp old hobbit next to him. "I must be honest, Uncle Bilbo," Merry began, not looking up. "When I said I had my father's permission to accompany you to Bree, I was - " He paused. 'Lying' was such an unpleasant term. "I was not being entirely truthful."
Bilbo grunted to himself. "I had thought as much," he answered.
Merry raised his head suddenly to look at the old hobbit with a shocked expression. "You knew, and yet you didn't send me back to the Hall?"
Bilbo poked a stick into the coals of the fire again. "You're a big lad, Merry," Bilbo countered. "Your father may disagree quite heartily with me, but I feel that you are old enough to make a journey beyond the borders of the Shire, provided you do so in the company of adults."
Although Bilbo's answer pleased him very much, Merry was still wracked with guilt. "I was just thinking about Mum and the look she must have had on her face when Da told her." His voice was low and soft, his gaze pensive. "I know I've probably upset her terribly, and I feel badly for having done so."
"You might do well to worry about what she'll do to you when she has you back," Bilbo cautioned wryly. When the gibe brought no response from Merry, he sighed. "Seriously, Meriadoc, your mother is quite strong and very practical. Yes, she will probably be upset, but she will not be shattered. She will be very concerned for your safety."
"But I am safe, Uncle! At least, I feel safe traveling with you." Merry turned to look at Bilbo. "You've been everywhere, and you returned safely. Who could be better for me to travel with?"
Bilbo smiled at Merry's concept of his experience. "I have hardly been everywhere, lad." He shifted to find a more comfortable position on the bedroll. "I have seen much, but not all of what this big, amazing world has to offer. I do plan to watch over you and ensure your safety inasmuch as I may," he said quietly, well aware of the responsibility Merry's presence on the journey had placed upon him.
They spoke little for the remainder of the night, but merely watched the stars emerging instead. After a while, they slept, wrapped in their blankets and dreams by the fire.
~*~To be continued~*~
Gayalondiel - Yes, we have happy, fluffy comfort for now. It's much deserved! Now to get Bilbo and Merry to Bree. Will they make it before anything else can happen? Answers ahead!
Aelfgifu - I have a feeling I owe you a lot of thanks for this story's success so far. You've drawn attention to it by plugging it as you update RATM, and I thank you! It seemed natural to have Aiden and Frodo share some common ground. It's one more thing that will help establish trust between them, and right now Frodo really needs someone he can trust!
Aratlithiel - I think we have a possible nominee for president of Aiden's fanclub! Merry and Bilbo are going to have some time for heart - to - heart discussion as they journey to Bree.
Krista - Falling for Aiden? You and Aratlithiel might be in contention for the fanclub presidency! He is exactly what Frodo needs right now - someone he truly can trust.
Camellia Gamgee - Took - You're right. Frodo does need to realize that there are people who do care for him. Glad you like Aiden. He's gaining a good following.
Daisy Brambleburr - It was definitely intended that Frodo and Aiden share a similar experience. It will strengthen their friendship. I was happy to review your story. It's coming along nicely!
Shirebound - We've given Frodo a respite from the discomfort and fear of earlier chapters. Glad you enjoyed the details of the last chapter. There will be a lot of details in this one too!
Distortion - Thanks for coming by! I loved your response about thinking at first that the two hobbits selling Frodo was a little far - fetched. I thought so at first too, but then I started thinking about the historical perspective. Ship captains sometimes ended up with crew through similar means, and people have sold each other into slavery for thousands of years. You're right as well that youths can be amazing in the things they'll get up to even today. I'm glad you're enjoying the story and I hope you'll stay with us as it continues.
Endymion - Frodo believes Bilbo would come for him, but he's none too sure that the truth of his presence in Bree has gotten out. It may have been an odd notion for Frodo to seek solitude during one of Bilbo's visits, and those who actually know him well were thinking about that. That's why Merry got so nervous so quickly. As for Frodo being taken from Bree by whomever purchased him, that was indeed a possibility. It looks like he's going to be staying put in Bree for the time being, though.
TTTurtle - A little love and beauty in the midst of Frodo's trials, certainly. Waiting in trepidation to see if it will last? Stay with us!
Bookworm2000 - Thanks for joining in! It remains to be seen whether Saradoc will help or hinder Bilbo and Merry in their journey. Right now his mission is to keep Merry from getting into trouble. Will he succeed? You'll find out in the next few chapters!
Iorhael - Frodo is priceless, isn't he? I don't know about Aiden, but there are a lot of people around here who wouldn't mind keeping him!
Ilmare - I'm glad Aiden has restored your faith in the Big Folk. He has restored Frodo's as well.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Chapter 12 - A Walk With A Friend
~*~Brandy Hall, Buckland, the next morning~*~
Esmeralda Brandybuck dabbed at her eyes with a handkerchief while Saradoc strapped his pack to the pony's back. "I'll be fine, Esmie," he was saying. "I'll catch up with them in no time and I'll bring Merry home safely." The pony stamped and snorted, as if in agreement with his words.
"Be careful, Sara," Esmie said through her tears. "I don't like any of this, not one little bit."
"I'm none too fond of the idea myself, Love, but Merry must not go to Bree. He is too young, and Bilbo is too unpredictable." He gave the pony a scratch behind one ear. "I'll be back before you know it, and we'll get to the bottom of this whole thing with Frodo."
"You don't really believe that story about Frodo being sold to the Big Folk, do you?" Esmeralda queried, looking sidelong at her husband.
"I know it sounds outrageous, but I don't quite know what to think, Esmie." Saradoc shook his head in frustration. "I know those older boys have made Frodo's life rather difficult from time to time, but something like that would be going entirely too far. If by any chance it is true, they cannot be allowed to stay at the Hall."
Esmeralda nodded in assent. "We can deal with them later, but please, Sara. Bring our son back immediately!"
Saradoc nodded. After a hug and a kiss goodbye, he mounted the pony and rode away up the path and toward the ferry. Once across the Brandywine he would follow the Bree Road. With any luck he would catch up with Bilbo and Merry within a day or so. When he did, he had a few choice words for Bilbo Baggins! He was welcome to entertain all the strange notions he pleased, but that old fool was crossing the line when it came to Merry. No son of his was going off on an ill - advised and dangerous journey with that cracked oldster. Dragons, Dwarves, Wizards, and now this!
Saradoc sighed as he led his pony onto the wooden ferry and released it from its mooring. If Merry was getting up to mischief like this already, what were his tween years going to be like? At least Paladin's young lad, Peregrin, was too young to trouble him in such fashion. Word of Merry's antics would surely travel to the Great Smials, and come next Yule, Saradoc could expect Paladin to get a good laugh at his expense. Let Paladin Took have his bit of mirth, thought Saradoc. Soon enough that lad of his would be headed for his tweens and as much trouble as he could find, and they'd see who had a good laugh then!
~*~ Aiden's home, Bree~*~
Sunlight streamed in through the window and across the face of a young hobbit, who blinked sleepily and opened his eyes. For the briefest of moments, Frodo cast his gaze about the room in fear and confusion. His mind began to clear and he remembered where he was and how he had come to be there.
He had slept soundly, giving himself over to the relief of being in a safe place. He was still rather astounded at the strange but welcome turn of events that had brought him into Aiden's company.
He slipped out from under the covers and crossed the room to the dresser. Folded neatly atop it were a clean shirt and breeches. Like the nightshirt, they were a good fit, well - made and comfortable. He thought about the little boy who had worn them before and wondered what he was like. If he had been anything like his father, he had been a good lad indeed, and Middle Earth was a sadder place for his passing.
Frodo stopped at the washbasin and scrubbed his face quickly, pausing to run his fingers through his hair. Having made himself presentable, he stepped out of the room and into the parlor to find Aiden seated at a table, making notes in a small book. The man looked up as Frodo entered the room, and smiled.
"Did you sleep well?" he asked, closing the book and rising to his feet. Frodo looked nothing like the pale, disoriented prisoner he had beheld at the inn. It was a relief to see the transformation, and Aiden shuddered inwardly as he thought of what might have been.
"Yes, thank you," Frodo replied, grinning. "How long was I asleep?"
"Since late yesterday afternoon," Aiden told him. "You look much better." He again stepped forward and felt Frodo's forehead. "I think the fever is gone as well."
"What are you working on?" Frodo asked curiously. The little book and a quill pen lay on the table nearby.
"Just some plans for the day," Aiden answered. "I have a couple of orders of Old Toby to fill and a trip to make to the market." He regarded Frodo thoughtfully. "In fact, if you're feeling up to it, you could come along. The air would be good for you, and I would be glad of the company."
"That sounds splendid," Frodo answered. His eyes roved across the room and fell upon a discarded tray of breakfast dishes. He crossed the room quickly and retrieved it, taking it to the kitchen.
"Frodo, what are you doing?" Aiden asked him, watching as the little hobbit stood upon a chair and started washing up the dishes.
"I'm helping you, " Frodo replied cheerfully. "It's the very least I can do, after everything you've done for me." Perhaps he could repay the man's kindness in small ways.
"Thank you, Frodo, but that will be quite enough help for now. I believe you've missed breakfast, and that must be remedied," Aiden replied, gently turning the hobbit aside from the washbasin.
Frodo looked at the clock on the mantelpiece and laughed. "I've missed first and second breakfast, and it's almost time for elevenses! I suppose I was tired indeed," he acknowledged. Why did Aiden have such an odd expression on his face, Frodo wondered?
"As often as I have traveled to the Shire, many of its customs are still unknown to me, apparently," the man said with amusement. "First and second breakfast? Elevenses? Can you explain these to a poor, confused Big Person?"
Frodo reddened, feeling rather embarrassed. "Although we hobbits are small, our appetites, generally speaking, are not." He smiled, thinking of what a normal day at Brandy Hall consisted of in terms of food preparation, not to mention an event of any size. "We eat several meals a day, starting with first and second breakfast, followed by elevenses, luncheon, afternoon tea, dinner and supper."
Aiden couldn't help laughing out loud. "How extraordinary! I suppose I had better make some changes to that market list of mine, if I'm to provide properly for you." What other surprising things would Frodo have to teach him about his people?
"The last thing I want is to be a burden to you, Aiden," Frodo said, feeling guilty. "I promise I shall not eat you out of house and home, and I shall earn my keep as well as I am able."
"If you are insistent upon putting yourself to good use, I suppose I could find some tasks for you to assist me with," Aiden said thoughtfully. "Would that ease your mind, young one?"
"Yes, very much so," Frodo replied. Even if all he could do was tidy up and help with errands, Frodo was determined to make himself useful.
"Very well, you can help me with the dishes," Aiden told him, "but not until you have had a proper meal yourself. Elevenses? Is that the term?"
"It is indeed," Frodo laughed, finding it amusing to see the man attempting valiantly to understand the strange customs of the Shire Folk. He wondered what other things the Big Folk did differently, and looked forward to learning more of them and their ways.
After a brief meal, Frodo assisted Aiden with clearing up the dishes and sweeping the hearth. Satisfied with the condition of the house, they stepped out into the sunshine. A crisp, early Autumn day greeted them, and they made their way through the streets at a comfortable pace.
"This is your first real look at Bree, is it not?" Aiden asked. Frodo looked up at him and nodded. As they walked, Aiden pointed out different landmarks and told Frodo a few things about the town and its people.
"Did you know there are a number of your kind who dwell here?" The hobbits of Bree were not present in large numbers, but they were an integral part of the population, living mostly in smials in the hills above the town proper.
Frodo nodded. He had heard there were hobbits in Bree. He hadn't seen any of them as yet, but he hoped to. It would be comforting to see some of his own kind in this unfamiliar environment.
"I am acquainted with some of the families," Aiden informed his companion. "In fact, the two orders of Old Toby I'll be filling today are for Otto Mugwort, who owns a fine bakery, and Anton Burrows, the bookseller. I should like you to meet them."
"I would like that very much," Frodo replied happily. The two worked their way through the milling crowds. The Bree Folk were going about their usual routines, and the streets were filled with people and horse - drawn carts. The clatter of hooves and cart wheels upon the cobblestones mingled with the sounds of merchants haggling with customers and shouts of greeting between acquaintances.
Before long, Frodo and Aiden were standing before the door of a small shop. The delicious smell of freshly - baked bread and pastries floated out to greet them. "This is Master Mugwort's shop," Aiden told Frodo. "His bread is without equal, as you will discover shortly."
As they walked in, a middle - aged hobbit with curly rust brown hair and round jovial features turned to greet them. "Master Aiden! A good day to you," Mugwort said cheerfully.
"Master Mugwort, a pleasure as always," Aiden responded, and gestured to Frodo. "I should like you to meet my guest, Frodo Baggins. Frodo, Otto Mugwort."
Frodo and Mugwort bowed politely to each other. "Baggins, eh? You must be from the Shire, as I don't know of any by that name here in Bree," Mugwort said conversationally.
"Yes, Master Mugwort, I am from Buckland," Frodo replied politely. "I also have family in Hobbiton."
Mugwort's brow furrowed as he thought about this. "Hobbiton, you say? Who was your grandfather, boy?"
"My Grandfather was Fosco Baggins, who married Ruby Bolger," Frodo answered. "His father was Largo Baggins."
"Didn't his sister Lily marry Togo Goodbody?" Mugwort asked. When Frodo nodded, he continued. "We may just have some family in common, young Frodo, for I've a share of Goodbodies for cousins," Mugwort said with a grin.
"I've a few as well, Master Mugwort. Let's see. There's Ivan, Ponto, Daisy, Pansy - " Frodo continued the litany for some moments as Mugwort nodded occasionally in recognition. All the while, Aiden stood with a rather dumbfounded look. Were all the hobbits from Bree to the Westfarthing related to each other? How incredibly complex their families must be!
Noticing the perplexed expression on the man's face, Mugwort smiled. "I think we're tiring Master Aiden with our list of relations," he said, chortling.
Frodo realized that Aiden looked rather confused indeed. "Forgive me please," he said, looking up at his newfound friend. "Hobbits have very detailed genealogical history. For the most part, all the families have relatives in common somewhere, it just takes a little searching to find them."
"So every time you meet one another, you may be talking to a member of your family?" Amazing. Aiden was sure he would not know his fourth cousin from the Steward of Gondor, should they meet in the marketplace. Yet Frodo and Master Mugwort, given the time to talk for a few minutes, would know their exact relationship to each other although they had never met before.
"Quite so, Master Aiden," Mugwort answered him. He then paused and sniffed the air thoughtfully. "A moment, if you will, please. I think I've a batch of loaves ready to come out of the ovens."
"Aiden says your bread is of the finest quality, and I have no doubt of it," Frodo sniffed the air appreciatively.
Mugwort's laugh rang out. "Been telling you tales, has he?" He smirked at Aiden. "Not surprising, rascal that he is!" Mugwort disappeared behind a curtain for a few moments, and returned with a satisfied look on his face. As Aiden drew a small pouch from a pocket, Mugwort sighed and grinned. "Ah, now there's a sight of a welcome kind."
"Yes indeed, Master Mugwort. Here's a bit of Old Toby for you, as scheduled. I fear I may be a bit short of supplies for a little while, so please be patient with me," Aiden told the hobbit, elaborating further as he saw Frodo blush just a little. "I've been quite busy, you know, and my travels are delayed by worthwhile necessity."
"Old Toby is worth the wait, Master Aiden," Mugwort said as he stepped behind a counter. He withdrew several coins from a pouch and passed them to Aiden, accepting the pipeweed in return. "Are you in need of anything for yourselves today?" he inquired, quirking an eyebrow at them.
"Yes, we do need some of that fine bread of yours," Aiden replied. "Better make it two loaves, if you please," he said, remembering the lesson in hobbit culture and customs he had learned earlier that morning.
"Two it is, good sir," Mugwort replied, wrapping the still - warm bread and handing it to Aiden. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Master Baggins, and I hope your stay in Bree is enjoyable."
"Thank you, Master Mugwort," Frodo said, reaching to take the loaves from Aiden's hands. "I have not been disappointed so far. Bree is quite an interesting place." Indeed, it seemed rather strange to Frodo to see the Big Folk and the hobbits of Bree living and working so closely together. Big Folk were often regarded with suspicion in Buckland, and most hobbits kept their distance from them.
They stopped next at the bookshop, and were greeted by Anton Burrows, a bright - eyed hobbit who moved and spoke briskly, his mind and hands always busy. He paused from dusting a shelf to greet them. "Welcome, Aiden!" Burrows enthused. "I've finished repairing the binding of those books for you." His eyes lit up a little brighter. "Have you anything for me today, perhaps?"
"Only a bit of pipeweed, my friend," Aiden said, adopting an attitude of mock apology. "No Longbottom Leaf, I'm afraid. You'll have to settle for Old Toby."
"Teasing me, are you?" Burrows whacked Aiden playfully in the leg with the duster that he held. "As if Old Toby is something one merely settles for!" He noted Frodo's presence with curiosity. "And who might your companion be?"
Aiden introduced Frodo, and having become acquainted with the custom earlier at Mugwort's shop, he was no longer surprised when they spoke until they found they had a Boffin or two in common.
As Aiden finished his transactions with Burrows, Frodo cast his gaze about at the books around him. He closed his eyes and breathed in the scent of ink, leather bindings and paper, thinking it as fragrant as flowers. This was even better than the library at Brandy Hall!
As Aiden tucked a couple of small books away, he noted Frodo's rapt stare. "Fond of books, are you?"
Frodo nodded, still looking around him joyously. "The library back home is one of my favorite places," he replied. "I spent hours there, reading anything I could find," Frodo said, a little wistfully.
"Fear not, Frodo," Aiden said kindly. "You shall do so again, I promise you." Small wonder the lad was homesick, Aiden thought. A journey is one thing, but removal by force from one's home was bound to engender a kind of homesickness far stronger than any other sort.
They bade farewell to the bookseller and made their way into the crowded market. Aiden passed a basket to Frodo, and they wove in and out among the stalls and booths, chatting amiably and filling the basket with fruits and vegetables. Anyone who saw them together would have assumed they had been friends for years, not merely hours as they laughed and conversed easily.
~*~
The man turned and followed them with his eyes as they passed, watching their progress coldly. A sneer came to his lips as he recognized the man and the halfling at his side. That snotty young fellow had boldly outbid him for the halfling, making him look like a no - account fool.
And just look at the little creature, walking by his side like an equal! He didn't hold with the Bree Folk and how they mixed with the halflings and transacted business with them. Down South, where he was from, halflings were a rare sight, and usually were the property of another. Some were servants, some were, well, wage - earners, for lack of a better term.
He had been given the opportunity to get one for himself while in Bree, and had his chance taken from him by that fancy talking young snip. He watched Aiden and Frodo as they walked through the marketplace, and took up following at a distance. He wanted to know where the young man lived. He might have missed his chance at the halfling once, but he had an idea that might rectify that situation.
Aiden and Frodo proceeded on their way, unaware of the unfriendly eyes that watched them and the footsteps that shadowed theirs.
~*~The Bree road, nightfall~*~
Merry tossed his bedroll down and spread it out against the ground. Bilbo did likewise as the sounds of the night began to close in around them. They had placed more wood upon the fire and it burned brightly, casting light and warmth upon the travelers.
"A good day's journey, young Meriadoc," Bilbo observed. "If the weather holds, we'll get to Bree in no time at all."
Merry merely nodded. He was rather preoccupied with thoughts of what was undoubtedly going on back at Brandy Hall. His father would have found his message by now, and his mother would be beside herself with worry. At the start of the journey, he had been so caught up in the idea of going to Frodo's aid, he hadn't given much thought to other matters. Now, on the road with nightfall encroaching, guilt for his actions crept up on him and attached itself to his spirit, gnawing at him.
"Merry, lad, you're a bit quiet," Bilbo prompted him. "Share your thoughts with an old hobbit, my boy." He stirred the fire and sat, waiting expectantly.
Merry stared into the flames as he spoke, knowing it was futile to try to hide what he was thinking from the sharp old hobbit next to him. "I must be honest, Uncle Bilbo," Merry began, not looking up. "When I said I had my father's permission to accompany you to Bree, I was - " He paused. 'Lying' was such an unpleasant term. "I was not being entirely truthful."
Bilbo grunted to himself. "I had thought as much," he answered.
Merry raised his head suddenly to look at the old hobbit with a shocked expression. "You knew, and yet you didn't send me back to the Hall?"
Bilbo poked a stick into the coals of the fire again. "You're a big lad, Merry," Bilbo countered. "Your father may disagree quite heartily with me, but I feel that you are old enough to make a journey beyond the borders of the Shire, provided you do so in the company of adults."
Although Bilbo's answer pleased him very much, Merry was still wracked with guilt. "I was just thinking about Mum and the look she must have had on her face when Da told her." His voice was low and soft, his gaze pensive. "I know I've probably upset her terribly, and I feel badly for having done so."
"You might do well to worry about what she'll do to you when she has you back," Bilbo cautioned wryly. When the gibe brought no response from Merry, he sighed. "Seriously, Meriadoc, your mother is quite strong and very practical. Yes, she will probably be upset, but she will not be shattered. She will be very concerned for your safety."
"But I am safe, Uncle! At least, I feel safe traveling with you." Merry turned to look at Bilbo. "You've been everywhere, and you returned safely. Who could be better for me to travel with?"
Bilbo smiled at Merry's concept of his experience. "I have hardly been everywhere, lad." He shifted to find a more comfortable position on the bedroll. "I have seen much, but not all of what this big, amazing world has to offer. I do plan to watch over you and ensure your safety inasmuch as I may," he said quietly, well aware of the responsibility Merry's presence on the journey had placed upon him.
They spoke little for the remainder of the night, but merely watched the stars emerging instead. After a while, they slept, wrapped in their blankets and dreams by the fire.
~*~To be continued~*~