Endymion - Ted just hasn't figured out that his beer buddy Lotho doesn't hold him in high regard, has he? I don't think Sam will let Frodo get away with pushing him out of the way again. He'll be doing the pushing from now on. Frodo doesn't think much of Lotho's snooty attitude, that's for sure!
Camellia Gamgee - Took - Great to see you back again! The first chapter was sweet, but it's not all sweetness in store for our hero, I'm afraid.
Shirebound - Lotho is completely insulting, isn't he? As if Frodo's being raised in Buckland were actually a bad thing!
Aratlithiel - Frodo and Sam's friendship is off to a good start. I almost feel sorry for Ted too. Here he is, thinking Lotho is his friend!
Aelfgifu - That last 'accident' was the product of a good opportunity. Lotho will make his own opportunities in this chapter. We will see Merry visit Bag End later. Frodo should definitely not play contact sports with Lotho again. The S - B's will continue their beastly behavior as the tale unfolds!
FrodoBaggins1982 - So far, this story is set up with 21 chapters. On the subject of ice, ~wink~ I'm taking a little bit of license assuming that Bag End might be just about the only place in the Shire that might have a deep enough cellar to be able to have a makeshift icebox of some kind. Those dwarves that Bilbo knows are awfully clever! Even so, it would be kind of like icehouses in the 1800s. I wouldn't expect the ice to last long, and it would be a luxury, to be sure. If Frodo were anywhere besides Bag End, he would probably have had to make do with cold well water to soak his wrist in.
FantasyFan - I'm updating at least every couple of days. I don't want to leave too long a gap between chapters if I can help it. Bilbo is always suspicious of Lotho, but so far he can't prove anything unusual is going on. You're right that Frodo is just so kind - hearted he can't imagine that his own cousin would try to harm him. Will Lotho try to drive a wedge between Bilbo and Frodo? You never know, he just might! He's certainly trying to make it look like Bilbo can't take proper care of the boy.
Amelia Rose - The 'accidents' are certainly escalating in their seriousness. I love Sam too. I think he's just the very best example of a true friend. Lotho was wrong to say those nasty, snobby things to him.
GamgeeFest - Lotho deserves a good throttling. That would make a good 'lost scene' as far as the market goes. You can bet there are a lot of whispers going around Hobbiton already as people start to wonder who that young hobbit is. Yule is a great time to introduce a young lad to society, though!
Gayalondiel - Frodo does have a good support group, far better than Lotho knows. Will Ted be Lotho's undoing? I can only answer by saying that by the time this fic is over, Lotho will owe Ted a favor! I know that sounds cryptic now, but you'll see what I mean.
Pebbles - I agree that Sam and Frodo must have shared some growing - up experiences. In the book, their ages were fairly different, but I think that Frodo might have made an effort not to treat Sam like a baby, and Sam would have gained enormous respect for Frodo. Bilbo is always suspicious of anything having to do with his least favorite relations. If it's bad, the S - Bs must have had something to do with it! Frodo's nature is to give everyone he meets a fair chance, so he's not as likely to suspect Lotho as Bilbo does.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Chapter 6 - Yule Cheer
"Now there's a young gentlehobbit if I've ever seen one!" Bilbo enthused, pausing to look as Frodo stood before the mirror smoothing his weskit. A trip to the tailor had produced a new pair of velvet breeches and a well - made linen shirt, over which Frodo wore a green velvet weskit with leaves embroidered upon it in gold thread. The clothing had a festive look about it, and fit the tween perfectly.
"It's all very nice, Uncle," Frodo said appreciatively. "Thank you so much!" He turned and gave his guardian a big hug.
"Only what was needed and deserved, dear boy," Bilbo replied, returning the embrace. "The Yule party at the Green Dragon is quite the social event, and we couldn't have you arriving in less than the most proper attire, now could we?"
"Is it a big party then, with many people there?" Frodo was a little apprehensive. This would be his first real outing of a social nature since his arrival, and the thought of meeting so many others for the first time gave him pause.
"Last year there were upwards of two hundred hobbits in attendance," Bilbo answered, fondly recalling the occasion the previous year. "There was music and dancing, and a feast of great proportions."
The bell rang, and Bilbo excused himself to answer it. Frodo gave his reflection another quick glance, and decided he was as ready as he would ever be. He made his way toward the parlor, where he could hear the voices of Bilbo and Hamfast Gamgee.
The Gaffer stood in the parlor with his two eldest sons, Hamson and Halfred. Sam was a little young yet to attend, so he was spending the evening at home with his younger sisters, May and Marigold. Bell Gamgee had already gone ahead of them with Daisy, since Bell had volunteered to help with the preparation of the food for the party.
"Well there's the lad now," Hamfast observed as Frodo entered the room. "How are you this evening, Mr. Frodo?"
"Very well, thank you, Master Gamgee." Frodo greeted Hamson and Halfred, shaking the hand of each with a smile. He and Bilbo donned their cloaks and the group left Bag End together, chatting cheerfully as they walked.
"How do you like Hobbiton so far, Mr. Frodo?" Halfred asked curiously.
"It's quite a pleasant place," Frodo answered, meaning every word. "I fear I haven't arrived at the right time of year to see it at its best, however." Winter's bleak grayness had fallen over the Shire, and there was not yet any snow to hide the brown, dormant grass. Springtime would surely be the time when Hobbiton was at its best aesthetically.
"'Tis true, our home is a fairer sight with the gardens in bloom," the Gaffer acknowledged. "But snow makes a pretty sight here as well, and we may see a storm 'fore long."
"Does it snow much here?" Frodo was curious. He rather liked the snow and had fond memories of snowball throwing with Merry when he was a younger lad.
"Not enough to keep a hobbit in his hole," Hamson put in, "but enough to make a nice view and some fun for the youngsters."
When they reached the inn, the sounds of music and laughter were already floating out into the night and the windows were brightly lit by candles and lanterns. Frodo was reminded of the parties and festivals at Brandy Hall, when he and Merry had hidden themselves and watched the revelers from a distance. Hobbits in bright colors danced and sang, raised tankards of ale in salute to one another, and partook of the feast laid out for them. Everyone seemed to be having a wonderful time.
Frodo felt himself flush uncomfortably as one pair of eyes after another seemed to come to rest upon him. The revelers weren't really staring at him, per se. That would be quite rude. Instead, they seemed to be glancing at him for a few moments and then looking away, only to allow their gazes to return to him again a moment later. Frodo understood their curiosity, but his grasp of it didn't make it easier for him to bear their scrutiny. He smiled faintly and stepped closer to Bilbo.
"Frodo, lad, fetch us both a tankard, eh?" Bilbo nudged Frodo toward the bar where several kegs were set up, and hobbits were serving themselves happily. Frodo nodded and willed himself to relax. As he filled two tankards, he glanced around the room. There, chatting with some other hobbits by the hearth, were the Sackville - Bagginses. Lobelia wore a rather impatient expression, and Lotho looked bored and disdainful. Otho just looked like there was somewhere else he'd rather be.
Lotho caught sight of Frodo and nodded to him, lifting his tankard. Frodo smiled and nodded back, repeating the salute. Frodo wondered again how long ago Bilbo's feud with them had begun, and whether it was due entirely to their desire to obtain Bag End. It saddened him that Bilbo's relations were so willing to sacrifice a good relationship with him. Bilbo was kind and amusing, if a little eccentric, and Frodo was proud of him and loved him for who he was. Why couldn't the Sackville - Bagginses see the same good things in the elderly hobbit and treasure them as he did?
Frodo filled two tankards and returned to find Bilbo chatting with some hobbits Frodo hadn't met yet.
"Frodo, I would like you to meet the Hornblowers," Bilbo began, as Frodo nodded politely and shook hands.
"How do you do," Frodo said, pleased that his voice sounded strong and even, rather than betraying his nervousness. He had supposed that he would be introduced to a great many others during the course of the evening, and his dread of the experience was beginning to fade as he sensed the friendliness of the people around him.
"You are recently come to Hobbiton, then?" Hanson Hornblower asked politely.
"Yes, sir," Frodo answered. "I've come from Buckland and will be staying at Bag End."
"I think you'll find Hobbiton a pleasant environment," Hanson's wife, Violet said with a smile. "Folk here are quite friendly, even if we are curious." She nodded to Frodo. "It isn't often there's a new face among us. I hope you haven't been made too uncomfortable by all of us peering at you."
Frodo did his best to force down the blush he felt rising to his cheeks. "Hobbiton is quite nice, ma'am," he answered simply.
Bilbo chimed in. "I may be biased, but I don't believe there is a better environment in all the world for a young hobbit." He thumped Frodo on the back. "There's plenty of space, fresh air, and lively company about."
"All things that are necessary for the proper raising of the young," Hanson agreed, sipping his ale. "But I do hope Hobbiton doesn't seem rather dull after Buckland."
After recent events in Buckland and elsewhere, Frodo reflected that a bit of dullness might be welcome. Besides, he didn't consider himself a particularly interesting individual anyhow. "Not to worry, sir," he said, smiling. "I fear I'm rather dull myself, really."
Bilbo laughed. "Frodo is not a dull lad at all," he said, glancing at the youth by his side. "He has a liking for books and such, but he's also got a quick sense of humor and an aptitude for dancing." He winked at Frodo. "I had best make haste to introduce him, for we'll lose him to the dance floor soon."
Frodo noticed that he had been unconsciously tapping his foot to the rhythm of the music, and blushed again. He couldn't help it. He had always liked music, and had shown his talent for dancing at an early age. He had learned all the most popular jigs and reels when he was quite young, and had only grown more adept as time passed. He was able to keep up with the elder hobbits at Brandy Hall no matter the complexity or tempo of the steps.
"We'll not keep you, Bilbo, for you've many introductions to make, I'm certain," Master Hornblower said with a polite bow. "A pleasure to meet you Frodo."
"Likewise, sir," Frodo answered, allowing Bilbo to lead him away into the crowd. More introductions followed, always with polite questions regarding his family in Buckland and the expected duration of his stay in Hobbiton. The answers came more easily to Frodo with repetition, and he began to feel more at ease.
After a while, Bilbo asked Frodo to refill their ales, and stood beaming at the tween when he returned with the newly filled tankards. "There's Daisy Chubb over there, and she looks like she could use a dance partner," Bilbo suggested, raising his eyebrows.
"Oh, Uncle, I don't know - " Frodo's protest fell on deaf ears.
"This is no time to be shy, my boy!" He gave Frodo a playful shove. "Go and ask her to dance, like a good lad."
Frodo did as he was bidden, having been propelled in the lass' direction by Bilbo's shove. In a few moments, Frodo was whirling Daisy about the dance floor, his steps deft and quick as he guided her in the lively reel. Bilbo watched proudly from the sidelines.
"Bilbo, how have you been keeping, dear fellow?" Bilbo turned to find old Odo Proudfoot by his side.
"Odo, old friend, I've been better than I've a right, especially if you inquire of certain others hereabouts." That elicited a laugh from both hobbits, and Odo slapped Bilbo on the back appreciatively. "Come on over and chat with the Boffins, will you? They've asked after you, you know."
"Indeed, I have been rather scarce of late," Bilbo admitted. "I've been working hard in my study, and doing a bit of traveling to visit family in recent months." He obediently followed Odo across the room to where the Boffin family stood.
Lotho watched as Frodo danced and Bilbo turned away to converse with the Boffins. He excused himself from his family and their conversation, edging closer to the table where Frodo's ale stood unattended.
Looking left and right to be sure he wasn't observed, Lotho carefully drew a small pouch of something from his pocket. "Let's see how well you dance with a head muddled by sleeping powder," he muttered under his breath. Lotho had managed to remove the drug from the cupboard at home without his parents being the wiser. Whenever Lobelia was in a state and had trouble sleeping, which was something of a frequent occurrence, she would put a bit of it into her tea and retire. A herd of oliphaunts couldn't wake her until she was good and ready to come to.
Lotho put a good pinch of the white powder into Frodo's ale and watched as it dissolved into invisibility. He was about to return the pouch to his pocket, but hesitated. How strong was the powder? How much did his mother use to achieve a drowsy state? Uncertain that he had put enough in to do the job, Lotho added a second pinch. Smiling to himself, he refilled his own ale and rejoined his mother and father.
The dance ended to the cheers of the participants, and Frodo tried to catch his breath before the next dance began. "Daisy, would you pardon me for a moment?" Frodo asked, breathing rapidly and wiping his brow. "I need a moment to revive myself. Can I get you something?" Daisy smiled and declined, saying she wasn't thirsty. She was quite pleased to have found such a good dance partner among the many tweens at the party, and asked Frodo to return quickly.
Frodo moved over to the table where his ale awaited him, and took a deep draught from the tankard. In moments he was back on the dance floor, swinging Daisy through the crowd once again.
Lotho sipped his ale and watched, wondering how long it would take. Frodo was of a slim build, so it stood to reason the reaction might set in a bit faster than with a sturdier individual. This would certainly be amusing, he thought.
As the tune was coming to an end, Frodo stumbled slightly, narrowly missing stepping on his partner's foot. He frowned at himself and apologized to Daisy. He wasn't usually so clumsy. Perhaps he was just a little tired, he reasoned as he thanked Daisy for the dances and excused himself.
He searched the crowded room for Bilbo and finally spotted him over in the corner with a group of hobbits, deep in conversation. He didn't want to interrupt them, so he looked about again, hoping to find someone he knew among the milling hobbits.
Seeing the Gamgees nearby, he made his way in their direction, his steps increasingly unsteady. And his vision - Frodo rubbed at his eyes trying to clear them - his vision was becoming rather blurry about the edges. Impossible, he thought hazily. He had only had one half pint and maybe half of a second, and over a two hour period. He shouldn't be anywhere near as unsteady as he was starting to feel. Perhaps he was coming down with something.
By the time he reached the Gamgees, Frodo was clearly in some distress. The Gaffer looked at him with an odd expression, and Frodo tried to smile and pretend nothing was wrong. As he stepped closer, he faltered and nearly fell as Halfred reached out to steady him.
"Mr. Frodo, you don't look well. Do you need to sit down?" He asked solicitously.
"I - I'm not sure, Halfred," Frodo said slowly. Everything around him seemed to be moving in slow motion now, and he felt strangely detached from his surroundings. "I feel so very odd - " Frodo said nothing more, but slowly collapsed as Halfred caught him.
"What in the Shire?" The Gaffer said as Frodo went limp in Halfred's grip. They carried the tween carefully to a chair and Hamson went in search of Bilbo as Halfred and his father stood fanning Frodo's face and slapping his hand gently, trying to bring him around.
"What a shame," a voice said behind them. They turned to see Lotho Sackville - Baggins standing a short distance away, shaking his head and smiling faintly. "It seems our young gentlehobbit has a hard time holding his ale."
The Gaffer gave Lotho a sour look. He didn't much like uppity lads like Lotho, and he wasn't ashamed to say so. "Whatever the cause of Mr. Frodo's troubles, they ain't anyone else's to comment over," he said sharply.
"Merely expressing my concern, Master Gamgee," Lotho said lightly, still smiling. "Perhaps all the excitement was a little much for my young cousin here," he offered. "Being in a room full of strangers is bound to be rather of a strain, and who knows what habits he learned in Buckland? Might it be possible that he has overindulged?"
"Whether he has or hasn't is none of your concern, Lotho," Bilbo said as he strode up to join them. "You must have something better to do than standing around making unsolicited comments and assumptions about your cousin." Bilbo glowered openly at the tween.
"I can see my presence here is thought to be unnecessary," Lotho said, a hint of sarcasm coming into his voice. "My advice, if you want it, is to get Frodo home before everyone notices. You wouldn't want all of Hobbiton to talk, would you?"
Bilbo wanted nothing more than to wipe the smirk off Lotho's face then and there. "Of course we'll get him home, and with no further cheekiness from you! He is not your concern, Lotho, and I'll thank you to keep your suppositions to yourself."
Lotho's smile had become a grin by now, as he enjoyed the scene playing out before him. "You needn't thank me, Uncle. Not at all." He turned and walked away, leaving Bilbo and the Gamgees to wonder as to the meaning of his statement.
Bilbo laid a hand across Frodo's forehead and spoke softly. "Frodo, lad, can you hear me?" Frodo did not respond, but was sound asleep in the chair. After much poking and prodding, Frodo's eyes fluttered open, but they were bleary and unfocused.
"Uncle Bilbo?" he asked weakly. "What's going on?"
"I was hoping you could tell me, Frodo," Bilbo answered quietly. "How are you feeling now? Can you stand?"
"I don't know," Frodo said lazily. "I'll try." With Hamson on one side of him and Halfred on the other, Frodo managed to regain his feet. He stood leaning on Hamson and Halfred heavily, barely able to remain upright.
"Let's get you home to bed, lad. We'll talk about it in the morning," Bilbo said gently as he went to retrieve their cloaks. He was deeply troubled by this turn of events. He had never heard anything about Frodo having a tendency to imbibe to excess at gatherings. In fact, to his knowledge, Frodo was quite new to the art of drinking ale, and had only recently had his first half - pint, and that under Bilbo's watchful eye. Now, there the lad was, nearly unconscious, and Lotho insinuating that it was Frodo's own lack of self - control that was to blame.
He returned to the group and draped Frodo's cloak about him as the Gamgee brothers supported the semi - conscious tween. They made their way carefully through the crowded room, eliciting stares and whispers from the other hobbits in attendance. Bilbo nodded and smiled, and to those bold enough to ask, he offered the excuse that Frodo was likely coming down with something and wasn't feeling well.
The fresh night air seemed to help, and Frodo was more alert as they made their way to Bag End. He felt heavy and numb, as if something were dragging him downward. Through the haze that clouded his mind came reproachful thoughts, as he realized how the situation must have looked to bystanders. He had somehow managed to embarrass Bilbo and himself as well. But he hadn't had that much ale, he reasoned. Was he really to blame, or was he merely ill and unfortunate enough to succumb to it in public?
When they arrived at Bag End, Frodo was taken immediately to his room, and laid gently on the bed. His eyes were closed, and oblivion was beckoning enticingly. In moments, Frodo was sound asleep again, before Bilbo could help him dress for bed.
Shaking his head, Bilbo left Frodo to sleep as he was, merely laying a coverlet over him with care. "My dear boy, what shall we do?" he said under his breath. He thanked the Gamgees for their help and kindness, and made himself a cup of tea in the kitchen.
For the next three hours he sat brooding, trying to puzzle out just what had happened at the party. And Lotho continued to intrude upon his thoughts. That irritating young snip had seemed almost amused by Frodo's condition! Little did Bilbo doubt the Sackville - Bagginses would make much of the incident, and word would be all over Hobbiton about Frodo's supposed ale intake.
~*~
Lotho slipped the pouch of sleeping powder back into the cabinet he had liberated it from earlier, still smiling at the mental image of Frodo staggering about at the party. It had come off even better than he'd hoped, for he hadn't counted on Frodo losing consciousness entirely. He must have used more of the powder than was needed. No matter, as the drug wasn't really all that potent. The rat would probably sleep all day, and never know what had hit him.
How satisfied Lotho had been with the result of his efforts! It now seemed to the casual observer that Frodo Baggins could not conduct himself as a gentlehobbit should when there was ale about. He couldn't imagine his cousin wanting to stay in a place where people whispered about him and shunned him for what they perceived to be his improper behavior.
Tonight he would dream about living in Bag End, owning the fine dwelling and all that it boasted. It would indeed belong to him someday, he surmised. His inheritance would be secure. Or would it? Old Bilbo had been none too pleased with what Lotho had said to him at the party. Let Bilbo be irritated with him, he thought. Bilbo disliked his parents too, it was plain, so why bother trying to gain his complete favor? As long as the old hobbit recognized who his closest relations were when the time came, that was all that mattered. Traditionally, Bilbo would be bound to leave them his wealth.
He closed his eyes and let the visions of a splendid life at Bag End fill his mind, and soon he slept, dreaming of all the ways he might finish the job of getting Frodo out of Hobbiton. So much to do!
~*~Late the next morning~*~
Frodo woke slowly, as the sleeping powder wore off little by little, leaving a mild confusion in its wake. He sat up and looked around, finding himself in his room, still dressed in his finery from the night before. He changed into his everyday attire and hung his new clothing carefully in the armoire. After splashing his face with some cool water from the basin, he wandered out into the kitchen.
"Feeling better, Frodo, lad?" Bilbo asked. Frodo had been expecting to hear anger or at the very least, disappointment in Bilbo's tone, but there was only concern.
"Yes, Uncle. Much better," Frodo asked, looking at his teacup morosely. He struggled to recall anything about the previous night that might have led to his condition, but failed to find any reason for his embarrassing state. "I'm sorry."
"For what, my boy?" Bilbo seated himself across from Frodo and patted his hand gently.
"I - I don't know," Frodo responded, realizing he couldn't easily explain. "For embarrassing you, mostly."
Bilbo smiled kindly. "You haven't embarrassed me, Frodo. One must consent to being embarrassed, and I have refused to be. Can you tell me what happened?"
"I'm still trying to understand it myself," Frodo said as he sipped his tea. "I had an ale with you, as you and I chatted for the first hour. I filled our tankards again, and you sent me to dance with Daisy. I danced with her until I was thirsty, so I had a bit more of that second ale, and went back to dancing." Frodo's brow furrowed in concentration as he remembered. "By the end of the dance, I was feeling a little dizzy, so I thought I would sit down. I started looking for you, but found the Gamgees first. I suddenly felt very dizzy and very tired, and I can't remember anything else until we were outside and on our way home."
Bilbo nodded. The information coincided with what the Gamgees had told him. "You can only remember having one and a half tankards, then?"
"Yes, Uncle. I'm sure of it." Frodo looked up and locked eyes with Bilbo. "I swear to you, Uncle. I wasn't drunk. I know I haven't much experience at drinking ale, but one and a half shouldn't have put me in such a state."
"I'll agree, lad. It should take more than that to produce such a strong reaction." Bilbo looked at Frodo sharply. "Lotho seemed rather amused, you know."
"Did he?" Frodo shook his head. "I can't remember anything but seeing him there with his family."
"He was there, all right. I can't help but wonder if he somehow had something to do with it," Bilbo grumbled. "Did you see him anywhere near your drink, Frodo?"
"No, I didn't," Frodo replied. Did Bilbo really think Lotho had done something to him? "We have no proof that he was in any way involved, Uncle."
"I suppose you're right, lad, but I mistrust him just the same." Bilbo looked gravely at Frodo. "He was a little too pleased to see that his young cousin was unconscious at a party."
"Perhaps his sense of humor is just a little different from ours, Uncle," Frodo offered. He was doing his best to be charitable. It hurt somehow to think that his own relative would be amused by his distress.
"More than a little," Bilbo said with a derisive snort. "Don't you fret over it, lad. Some folk may whisper about it for a time, but like all things, it will pass. Besides, I can recall seeing many of Hobbiton's finest folk reeling about unbalanced on one occasion or another. I don't know what happened, but I find no fault with you, my boy."
Frodo's expression brightened some at that assurance. He'd been certain Bilbo would be greatly displeased with him. "I'm glad, Uncle. I don't want to embarrass or disappoint you in any way. I was sure that I had."
"Don't trouble your mind with what may be going through mine," Bilbo said as he patted Frodo's hand again. "If you're still feeling tired, you go on back to bed and rest. If you're coming down with something, I'd rather you stay in bed and get better."
Frodo nodded. He finished his tea, and did as Bilbo had suggested, returning to bed to rest for the remainder of the day.
~*~To be continued~*~
Camellia Gamgee - Took - Great to see you back again! The first chapter was sweet, but it's not all sweetness in store for our hero, I'm afraid.
Shirebound - Lotho is completely insulting, isn't he? As if Frodo's being raised in Buckland were actually a bad thing!
Aratlithiel - Frodo and Sam's friendship is off to a good start. I almost feel sorry for Ted too. Here he is, thinking Lotho is his friend!
Aelfgifu - That last 'accident' was the product of a good opportunity. Lotho will make his own opportunities in this chapter. We will see Merry visit Bag End later. Frodo should definitely not play contact sports with Lotho again. The S - B's will continue their beastly behavior as the tale unfolds!
FrodoBaggins1982 - So far, this story is set up with 21 chapters. On the subject of ice, ~wink~ I'm taking a little bit of license assuming that Bag End might be just about the only place in the Shire that might have a deep enough cellar to be able to have a makeshift icebox of some kind. Those dwarves that Bilbo knows are awfully clever! Even so, it would be kind of like icehouses in the 1800s. I wouldn't expect the ice to last long, and it would be a luxury, to be sure. If Frodo were anywhere besides Bag End, he would probably have had to make do with cold well water to soak his wrist in.
FantasyFan - I'm updating at least every couple of days. I don't want to leave too long a gap between chapters if I can help it. Bilbo is always suspicious of Lotho, but so far he can't prove anything unusual is going on. You're right that Frodo is just so kind - hearted he can't imagine that his own cousin would try to harm him. Will Lotho try to drive a wedge between Bilbo and Frodo? You never know, he just might! He's certainly trying to make it look like Bilbo can't take proper care of the boy.
Amelia Rose - The 'accidents' are certainly escalating in their seriousness. I love Sam too. I think he's just the very best example of a true friend. Lotho was wrong to say those nasty, snobby things to him.
GamgeeFest - Lotho deserves a good throttling. That would make a good 'lost scene' as far as the market goes. You can bet there are a lot of whispers going around Hobbiton already as people start to wonder who that young hobbit is. Yule is a great time to introduce a young lad to society, though!
Gayalondiel - Frodo does have a good support group, far better than Lotho knows. Will Ted be Lotho's undoing? I can only answer by saying that by the time this fic is over, Lotho will owe Ted a favor! I know that sounds cryptic now, but you'll see what I mean.
Pebbles - I agree that Sam and Frodo must have shared some growing - up experiences. In the book, their ages were fairly different, but I think that Frodo might have made an effort not to treat Sam like a baby, and Sam would have gained enormous respect for Frodo. Bilbo is always suspicious of anything having to do with his least favorite relations. If it's bad, the S - Bs must have had something to do with it! Frodo's nature is to give everyone he meets a fair chance, so he's not as likely to suspect Lotho as Bilbo does.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Chapter 6 - Yule Cheer
"Now there's a young gentlehobbit if I've ever seen one!" Bilbo enthused, pausing to look as Frodo stood before the mirror smoothing his weskit. A trip to the tailor had produced a new pair of velvet breeches and a well - made linen shirt, over which Frodo wore a green velvet weskit with leaves embroidered upon it in gold thread. The clothing had a festive look about it, and fit the tween perfectly.
"It's all very nice, Uncle," Frodo said appreciatively. "Thank you so much!" He turned and gave his guardian a big hug.
"Only what was needed and deserved, dear boy," Bilbo replied, returning the embrace. "The Yule party at the Green Dragon is quite the social event, and we couldn't have you arriving in less than the most proper attire, now could we?"
"Is it a big party then, with many people there?" Frodo was a little apprehensive. This would be his first real outing of a social nature since his arrival, and the thought of meeting so many others for the first time gave him pause.
"Last year there were upwards of two hundred hobbits in attendance," Bilbo answered, fondly recalling the occasion the previous year. "There was music and dancing, and a feast of great proportions."
The bell rang, and Bilbo excused himself to answer it. Frodo gave his reflection another quick glance, and decided he was as ready as he would ever be. He made his way toward the parlor, where he could hear the voices of Bilbo and Hamfast Gamgee.
The Gaffer stood in the parlor with his two eldest sons, Hamson and Halfred. Sam was a little young yet to attend, so he was spending the evening at home with his younger sisters, May and Marigold. Bell Gamgee had already gone ahead of them with Daisy, since Bell had volunteered to help with the preparation of the food for the party.
"Well there's the lad now," Hamfast observed as Frodo entered the room. "How are you this evening, Mr. Frodo?"
"Very well, thank you, Master Gamgee." Frodo greeted Hamson and Halfred, shaking the hand of each with a smile. He and Bilbo donned their cloaks and the group left Bag End together, chatting cheerfully as they walked.
"How do you like Hobbiton so far, Mr. Frodo?" Halfred asked curiously.
"It's quite a pleasant place," Frodo answered, meaning every word. "I fear I haven't arrived at the right time of year to see it at its best, however." Winter's bleak grayness had fallen over the Shire, and there was not yet any snow to hide the brown, dormant grass. Springtime would surely be the time when Hobbiton was at its best aesthetically.
"'Tis true, our home is a fairer sight with the gardens in bloom," the Gaffer acknowledged. "But snow makes a pretty sight here as well, and we may see a storm 'fore long."
"Does it snow much here?" Frodo was curious. He rather liked the snow and had fond memories of snowball throwing with Merry when he was a younger lad.
"Not enough to keep a hobbit in his hole," Hamson put in, "but enough to make a nice view and some fun for the youngsters."
When they reached the inn, the sounds of music and laughter were already floating out into the night and the windows were brightly lit by candles and lanterns. Frodo was reminded of the parties and festivals at Brandy Hall, when he and Merry had hidden themselves and watched the revelers from a distance. Hobbits in bright colors danced and sang, raised tankards of ale in salute to one another, and partook of the feast laid out for them. Everyone seemed to be having a wonderful time.
Frodo felt himself flush uncomfortably as one pair of eyes after another seemed to come to rest upon him. The revelers weren't really staring at him, per se. That would be quite rude. Instead, they seemed to be glancing at him for a few moments and then looking away, only to allow their gazes to return to him again a moment later. Frodo understood their curiosity, but his grasp of it didn't make it easier for him to bear their scrutiny. He smiled faintly and stepped closer to Bilbo.
"Frodo, lad, fetch us both a tankard, eh?" Bilbo nudged Frodo toward the bar where several kegs were set up, and hobbits were serving themselves happily. Frodo nodded and willed himself to relax. As he filled two tankards, he glanced around the room. There, chatting with some other hobbits by the hearth, were the Sackville - Bagginses. Lobelia wore a rather impatient expression, and Lotho looked bored and disdainful. Otho just looked like there was somewhere else he'd rather be.
Lotho caught sight of Frodo and nodded to him, lifting his tankard. Frodo smiled and nodded back, repeating the salute. Frodo wondered again how long ago Bilbo's feud with them had begun, and whether it was due entirely to their desire to obtain Bag End. It saddened him that Bilbo's relations were so willing to sacrifice a good relationship with him. Bilbo was kind and amusing, if a little eccentric, and Frodo was proud of him and loved him for who he was. Why couldn't the Sackville - Bagginses see the same good things in the elderly hobbit and treasure them as he did?
Frodo filled two tankards and returned to find Bilbo chatting with some hobbits Frodo hadn't met yet.
"Frodo, I would like you to meet the Hornblowers," Bilbo began, as Frodo nodded politely and shook hands.
"How do you do," Frodo said, pleased that his voice sounded strong and even, rather than betraying his nervousness. He had supposed that he would be introduced to a great many others during the course of the evening, and his dread of the experience was beginning to fade as he sensed the friendliness of the people around him.
"You are recently come to Hobbiton, then?" Hanson Hornblower asked politely.
"Yes, sir," Frodo answered. "I've come from Buckland and will be staying at Bag End."
"I think you'll find Hobbiton a pleasant environment," Hanson's wife, Violet said with a smile. "Folk here are quite friendly, even if we are curious." She nodded to Frodo. "It isn't often there's a new face among us. I hope you haven't been made too uncomfortable by all of us peering at you."
Frodo did his best to force down the blush he felt rising to his cheeks. "Hobbiton is quite nice, ma'am," he answered simply.
Bilbo chimed in. "I may be biased, but I don't believe there is a better environment in all the world for a young hobbit." He thumped Frodo on the back. "There's plenty of space, fresh air, and lively company about."
"All things that are necessary for the proper raising of the young," Hanson agreed, sipping his ale. "But I do hope Hobbiton doesn't seem rather dull after Buckland."
After recent events in Buckland and elsewhere, Frodo reflected that a bit of dullness might be welcome. Besides, he didn't consider himself a particularly interesting individual anyhow. "Not to worry, sir," he said, smiling. "I fear I'm rather dull myself, really."
Bilbo laughed. "Frodo is not a dull lad at all," he said, glancing at the youth by his side. "He has a liking for books and such, but he's also got a quick sense of humor and an aptitude for dancing." He winked at Frodo. "I had best make haste to introduce him, for we'll lose him to the dance floor soon."
Frodo noticed that he had been unconsciously tapping his foot to the rhythm of the music, and blushed again. He couldn't help it. He had always liked music, and had shown his talent for dancing at an early age. He had learned all the most popular jigs and reels when he was quite young, and had only grown more adept as time passed. He was able to keep up with the elder hobbits at Brandy Hall no matter the complexity or tempo of the steps.
"We'll not keep you, Bilbo, for you've many introductions to make, I'm certain," Master Hornblower said with a polite bow. "A pleasure to meet you Frodo."
"Likewise, sir," Frodo answered, allowing Bilbo to lead him away into the crowd. More introductions followed, always with polite questions regarding his family in Buckland and the expected duration of his stay in Hobbiton. The answers came more easily to Frodo with repetition, and he began to feel more at ease.
After a while, Bilbo asked Frodo to refill their ales, and stood beaming at the tween when he returned with the newly filled tankards. "There's Daisy Chubb over there, and she looks like she could use a dance partner," Bilbo suggested, raising his eyebrows.
"Oh, Uncle, I don't know - " Frodo's protest fell on deaf ears.
"This is no time to be shy, my boy!" He gave Frodo a playful shove. "Go and ask her to dance, like a good lad."
Frodo did as he was bidden, having been propelled in the lass' direction by Bilbo's shove. In a few moments, Frodo was whirling Daisy about the dance floor, his steps deft and quick as he guided her in the lively reel. Bilbo watched proudly from the sidelines.
"Bilbo, how have you been keeping, dear fellow?" Bilbo turned to find old Odo Proudfoot by his side.
"Odo, old friend, I've been better than I've a right, especially if you inquire of certain others hereabouts." That elicited a laugh from both hobbits, and Odo slapped Bilbo on the back appreciatively. "Come on over and chat with the Boffins, will you? They've asked after you, you know."
"Indeed, I have been rather scarce of late," Bilbo admitted. "I've been working hard in my study, and doing a bit of traveling to visit family in recent months." He obediently followed Odo across the room to where the Boffin family stood.
Lotho watched as Frodo danced and Bilbo turned away to converse with the Boffins. He excused himself from his family and their conversation, edging closer to the table where Frodo's ale stood unattended.
Looking left and right to be sure he wasn't observed, Lotho carefully drew a small pouch of something from his pocket. "Let's see how well you dance with a head muddled by sleeping powder," he muttered under his breath. Lotho had managed to remove the drug from the cupboard at home without his parents being the wiser. Whenever Lobelia was in a state and had trouble sleeping, which was something of a frequent occurrence, she would put a bit of it into her tea and retire. A herd of oliphaunts couldn't wake her until she was good and ready to come to.
Lotho put a good pinch of the white powder into Frodo's ale and watched as it dissolved into invisibility. He was about to return the pouch to his pocket, but hesitated. How strong was the powder? How much did his mother use to achieve a drowsy state? Uncertain that he had put enough in to do the job, Lotho added a second pinch. Smiling to himself, he refilled his own ale and rejoined his mother and father.
The dance ended to the cheers of the participants, and Frodo tried to catch his breath before the next dance began. "Daisy, would you pardon me for a moment?" Frodo asked, breathing rapidly and wiping his brow. "I need a moment to revive myself. Can I get you something?" Daisy smiled and declined, saying she wasn't thirsty. She was quite pleased to have found such a good dance partner among the many tweens at the party, and asked Frodo to return quickly.
Frodo moved over to the table where his ale awaited him, and took a deep draught from the tankard. In moments he was back on the dance floor, swinging Daisy through the crowd once again.
Lotho sipped his ale and watched, wondering how long it would take. Frodo was of a slim build, so it stood to reason the reaction might set in a bit faster than with a sturdier individual. This would certainly be amusing, he thought.
As the tune was coming to an end, Frodo stumbled slightly, narrowly missing stepping on his partner's foot. He frowned at himself and apologized to Daisy. He wasn't usually so clumsy. Perhaps he was just a little tired, he reasoned as he thanked Daisy for the dances and excused himself.
He searched the crowded room for Bilbo and finally spotted him over in the corner with a group of hobbits, deep in conversation. He didn't want to interrupt them, so he looked about again, hoping to find someone he knew among the milling hobbits.
Seeing the Gamgees nearby, he made his way in their direction, his steps increasingly unsteady. And his vision - Frodo rubbed at his eyes trying to clear them - his vision was becoming rather blurry about the edges. Impossible, he thought hazily. He had only had one half pint and maybe half of a second, and over a two hour period. He shouldn't be anywhere near as unsteady as he was starting to feel. Perhaps he was coming down with something.
By the time he reached the Gamgees, Frodo was clearly in some distress. The Gaffer looked at him with an odd expression, and Frodo tried to smile and pretend nothing was wrong. As he stepped closer, he faltered and nearly fell as Halfred reached out to steady him.
"Mr. Frodo, you don't look well. Do you need to sit down?" He asked solicitously.
"I - I'm not sure, Halfred," Frodo said slowly. Everything around him seemed to be moving in slow motion now, and he felt strangely detached from his surroundings. "I feel so very odd - " Frodo said nothing more, but slowly collapsed as Halfred caught him.
"What in the Shire?" The Gaffer said as Frodo went limp in Halfred's grip. They carried the tween carefully to a chair and Hamson went in search of Bilbo as Halfred and his father stood fanning Frodo's face and slapping his hand gently, trying to bring him around.
"What a shame," a voice said behind them. They turned to see Lotho Sackville - Baggins standing a short distance away, shaking his head and smiling faintly. "It seems our young gentlehobbit has a hard time holding his ale."
The Gaffer gave Lotho a sour look. He didn't much like uppity lads like Lotho, and he wasn't ashamed to say so. "Whatever the cause of Mr. Frodo's troubles, they ain't anyone else's to comment over," he said sharply.
"Merely expressing my concern, Master Gamgee," Lotho said lightly, still smiling. "Perhaps all the excitement was a little much for my young cousin here," he offered. "Being in a room full of strangers is bound to be rather of a strain, and who knows what habits he learned in Buckland? Might it be possible that he has overindulged?"
"Whether he has or hasn't is none of your concern, Lotho," Bilbo said as he strode up to join them. "You must have something better to do than standing around making unsolicited comments and assumptions about your cousin." Bilbo glowered openly at the tween.
"I can see my presence here is thought to be unnecessary," Lotho said, a hint of sarcasm coming into his voice. "My advice, if you want it, is to get Frodo home before everyone notices. You wouldn't want all of Hobbiton to talk, would you?"
Bilbo wanted nothing more than to wipe the smirk off Lotho's face then and there. "Of course we'll get him home, and with no further cheekiness from you! He is not your concern, Lotho, and I'll thank you to keep your suppositions to yourself."
Lotho's smile had become a grin by now, as he enjoyed the scene playing out before him. "You needn't thank me, Uncle. Not at all." He turned and walked away, leaving Bilbo and the Gamgees to wonder as to the meaning of his statement.
Bilbo laid a hand across Frodo's forehead and spoke softly. "Frodo, lad, can you hear me?" Frodo did not respond, but was sound asleep in the chair. After much poking and prodding, Frodo's eyes fluttered open, but they were bleary and unfocused.
"Uncle Bilbo?" he asked weakly. "What's going on?"
"I was hoping you could tell me, Frodo," Bilbo answered quietly. "How are you feeling now? Can you stand?"
"I don't know," Frodo said lazily. "I'll try." With Hamson on one side of him and Halfred on the other, Frodo managed to regain his feet. He stood leaning on Hamson and Halfred heavily, barely able to remain upright.
"Let's get you home to bed, lad. We'll talk about it in the morning," Bilbo said gently as he went to retrieve their cloaks. He was deeply troubled by this turn of events. He had never heard anything about Frodo having a tendency to imbibe to excess at gatherings. In fact, to his knowledge, Frodo was quite new to the art of drinking ale, and had only recently had his first half - pint, and that under Bilbo's watchful eye. Now, there the lad was, nearly unconscious, and Lotho insinuating that it was Frodo's own lack of self - control that was to blame.
He returned to the group and draped Frodo's cloak about him as the Gamgee brothers supported the semi - conscious tween. They made their way carefully through the crowded room, eliciting stares and whispers from the other hobbits in attendance. Bilbo nodded and smiled, and to those bold enough to ask, he offered the excuse that Frodo was likely coming down with something and wasn't feeling well.
The fresh night air seemed to help, and Frodo was more alert as they made their way to Bag End. He felt heavy and numb, as if something were dragging him downward. Through the haze that clouded his mind came reproachful thoughts, as he realized how the situation must have looked to bystanders. He had somehow managed to embarrass Bilbo and himself as well. But he hadn't had that much ale, he reasoned. Was he really to blame, or was he merely ill and unfortunate enough to succumb to it in public?
When they arrived at Bag End, Frodo was taken immediately to his room, and laid gently on the bed. His eyes were closed, and oblivion was beckoning enticingly. In moments, Frodo was sound asleep again, before Bilbo could help him dress for bed.
Shaking his head, Bilbo left Frodo to sleep as he was, merely laying a coverlet over him with care. "My dear boy, what shall we do?" he said under his breath. He thanked the Gamgees for their help and kindness, and made himself a cup of tea in the kitchen.
For the next three hours he sat brooding, trying to puzzle out just what had happened at the party. And Lotho continued to intrude upon his thoughts. That irritating young snip had seemed almost amused by Frodo's condition! Little did Bilbo doubt the Sackville - Bagginses would make much of the incident, and word would be all over Hobbiton about Frodo's supposed ale intake.
~*~
Lotho slipped the pouch of sleeping powder back into the cabinet he had liberated it from earlier, still smiling at the mental image of Frodo staggering about at the party. It had come off even better than he'd hoped, for he hadn't counted on Frodo losing consciousness entirely. He must have used more of the powder than was needed. No matter, as the drug wasn't really all that potent. The rat would probably sleep all day, and never know what had hit him.
How satisfied Lotho had been with the result of his efforts! It now seemed to the casual observer that Frodo Baggins could not conduct himself as a gentlehobbit should when there was ale about. He couldn't imagine his cousin wanting to stay in a place where people whispered about him and shunned him for what they perceived to be his improper behavior.
Tonight he would dream about living in Bag End, owning the fine dwelling and all that it boasted. It would indeed belong to him someday, he surmised. His inheritance would be secure. Or would it? Old Bilbo had been none too pleased with what Lotho had said to him at the party. Let Bilbo be irritated with him, he thought. Bilbo disliked his parents too, it was plain, so why bother trying to gain his complete favor? As long as the old hobbit recognized who his closest relations were when the time came, that was all that mattered. Traditionally, Bilbo would be bound to leave them his wealth.
He closed his eyes and let the visions of a splendid life at Bag End fill his mind, and soon he slept, dreaming of all the ways he might finish the job of getting Frodo out of Hobbiton. So much to do!
~*~Late the next morning~*~
Frodo woke slowly, as the sleeping powder wore off little by little, leaving a mild confusion in its wake. He sat up and looked around, finding himself in his room, still dressed in his finery from the night before. He changed into his everyday attire and hung his new clothing carefully in the armoire. After splashing his face with some cool water from the basin, he wandered out into the kitchen.
"Feeling better, Frodo, lad?" Bilbo asked. Frodo had been expecting to hear anger or at the very least, disappointment in Bilbo's tone, but there was only concern.
"Yes, Uncle. Much better," Frodo asked, looking at his teacup morosely. He struggled to recall anything about the previous night that might have led to his condition, but failed to find any reason for his embarrassing state. "I'm sorry."
"For what, my boy?" Bilbo seated himself across from Frodo and patted his hand gently.
"I - I don't know," Frodo responded, realizing he couldn't easily explain. "For embarrassing you, mostly."
Bilbo smiled kindly. "You haven't embarrassed me, Frodo. One must consent to being embarrassed, and I have refused to be. Can you tell me what happened?"
"I'm still trying to understand it myself," Frodo said as he sipped his tea. "I had an ale with you, as you and I chatted for the first hour. I filled our tankards again, and you sent me to dance with Daisy. I danced with her until I was thirsty, so I had a bit more of that second ale, and went back to dancing." Frodo's brow furrowed in concentration as he remembered. "By the end of the dance, I was feeling a little dizzy, so I thought I would sit down. I started looking for you, but found the Gamgees first. I suddenly felt very dizzy and very tired, and I can't remember anything else until we were outside and on our way home."
Bilbo nodded. The information coincided with what the Gamgees had told him. "You can only remember having one and a half tankards, then?"
"Yes, Uncle. I'm sure of it." Frodo looked up and locked eyes with Bilbo. "I swear to you, Uncle. I wasn't drunk. I know I haven't much experience at drinking ale, but one and a half shouldn't have put me in such a state."
"I'll agree, lad. It should take more than that to produce such a strong reaction." Bilbo looked at Frodo sharply. "Lotho seemed rather amused, you know."
"Did he?" Frodo shook his head. "I can't remember anything but seeing him there with his family."
"He was there, all right. I can't help but wonder if he somehow had something to do with it," Bilbo grumbled. "Did you see him anywhere near your drink, Frodo?"
"No, I didn't," Frodo replied. Did Bilbo really think Lotho had done something to him? "We have no proof that he was in any way involved, Uncle."
"I suppose you're right, lad, but I mistrust him just the same." Bilbo looked gravely at Frodo. "He was a little too pleased to see that his young cousin was unconscious at a party."
"Perhaps his sense of humor is just a little different from ours, Uncle," Frodo offered. He was doing his best to be charitable. It hurt somehow to think that his own relative would be amused by his distress.
"More than a little," Bilbo said with a derisive snort. "Don't you fret over it, lad. Some folk may whisper about it for a time, but like all things, it will pass. Besides, I can recall seeing many of Hobbiton's finest folk reeling about unbalanced on one occasion or another. I don't know what happened, but I find no fault with you, my boy."
Frodo's expression brightened some at that assurance. He'd been certain Bilbo would be greatly displeased with him. "I'm glad, Uncle. I don't want to embarrass or disappoint you in any way. I was sure that I had."
"Don't trouble your mind with what may be going through mine," Bilbo said as he patted Frodo's hand again. "If you're still feeling tired, you go on back to bed and rest. If you're coming down with something, I'd rather you stay in bed and get better."
Frodo nodded. He finished his tea, and did as Bilbo had suggested, returning to bed to rest for the remainder of the day.
~*~To be continued~*~