FrodoBaggins1982 - Bell is a sweetheart, but a tough cookie as well. She has to be to put up with that lively brood of hers! Lotho is just unable to be nice for more than 30 seconds at a time, and I'm not sure 'nice' is even the right word!
Anime Princess4 - Happy reunions contained herein. Lotho's a pain in the butt. Always.
Iorhael - Saved, and not a moment too soon! Lotho? Take the good path? There ain't a wizard in Middle Earth who can make that happen!
LotRseer3350 - A couple more chapters to go, and lots of warm fuzzies!
Midgette - I see you out there! Ff.net was a little funny about letting people review the last couple chapters. Maybe it's all fixed now.
Tavion - It's nearly impossible not to like Frodo, unless you're Lotho, that is. Let's just see how Frodo handles it when everyone wants to know what happened.
QTPie2488 - When Lobelia isn't screeching in his ears, Otho can actually think!
Aratlithiel - Lotho's grudging respect for Frodo won't be enough to keep him from returning to his old, nasty self, I'm afraid. Glad you liked the rescue!
Shirebound - Yay! That about sums it up, doesn't it?
Amelia Rose - Lotho has learned a thing or two about his cousin, hasn't he? And as for the review of your story, you're welcome. It was quite nicely done.
Bookworm2000 - Lotho is unlikely to let his insight into Frodo's character keep him from behaving as nastily as ever. Frodo was having auditory hallucinations when he thought he heard Merry's voice. From one bookworm to another, we've all heard it used as an epithet!
Aeflgifu - You're getting ahead of me! LOL! Bramblethorn will be back, but not until my next fic which is still in the making. We're not quite to the end of this one yet, but I plan for to be happy! Thanks for your compliments on my gaggle of hobbits interacting with each other. I have more fun writing Bilbo every time I try it.
Endymion2 - I think you're right that Lobelia is unable to just be happy with what she has in life.
Camellia - Gamgee - Took - We found them, so lets go give them a hug. Frodo, at least.
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References to "On the Banks of the Brandywine" included.
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Chapter 20 - An Understanding
"Frodo! Oh, Frodo lad, please say something," Bilbo urged as he wrapped his arms around the youngster. "Please tell me you're all right."
Frodo gasped and coughed as fresh air filled his lungs for the first time in hours. His eyes opened to the welcome sight of Bilbo hovering over him, tired eyes bright with tears. He tried to say something but only coughed instead as his lungs attempted to clear themselves. Finally he managed to whisper a few words. "I'm so sorry, Uncle."
"Sorry? Whatever for?" Bilbo hugged him closer.
"I'm sorry for causing so much trouble," Frodo said quietly. "First Bree, now this." He coughed again.
"You did not cause any of the things you speak of, my boy," Bilbo reasoned. "You are no trouble to me, Frodo. Can't you see that you matter more to me than anything and that I would gladly do anything for you?"
"Easy, lads," a voice instructed from the newly reopened passage as Master Goodbody was helped across the threshold of the chamber. "Move me carefully, and don't move those boys until I get a look at them."
Frodo pointed at his cousin. "Lotho first. He was more badly injured than I," Frodo told the healer as he drank gratefully from a flask of water that Bilbo held to his lips.
"What about you, lad? Are you hurt?" There was real fear in Bilbo's voice as he looked Frodo over intently, searching for any signs of serious injury.
The water helped Frodo to find his voice. "My shoulder." As he was revived more fully, the pain of his injury flared to life, and he tried to keep still to avoid the stabs of agony that followed any movement of the arm.
Master Goodbody examined Lotho's swollen leg while the tween drank the water he was given. "I would say a splint is in order," he muttered as he checked for other damage. "We will have to move him carefully."
The healer turned to Frodo. "You said your shoulder was injured?" Frodo nodded and Master Goodbody prodded the joint carefully with his fingers. "Dislocated, was it?" Another nod from the patient. "It seems to be back in place now, but the muscles will remember the insult for a little while, I'm afraid." Master Goodbody noted that other than bruises and scrapes, the two tweens were in satisfactory condition.
Another hobbit came hurrying in with two mugs of steaming tea and the healer produced a couple of packets from his pocket. He dumped the herbs into the mugs and handed them to Bilbo and Otho. "There's something in the tea to ease the pain. We must get them out into the open, or risk them being injured further by another collapse."
Bilbo and Otho helped the youngsters sit up and drink the tea. They were wondering how long they dared to wait for the remedy to take effect, and looked at the ceiling above them suspiciously.
Sam made his way in and retrieved Frodo's pack. He gave Lotho a glance, but quickly turned his full attention to Frodo. "Mr. Frodo," Sam said as he knelt beside Bilbo. "Please don't go and scare me no more. I can't bear it."
The look on Sam's face went straight to Frodo's heart and he grasped his friend's hand. "I'm sorry, Sam. Thank you for helping me."
Something almost protective came into Sam's eyes. "I'll always help you, Mr. Frodo. You're the best friend I've got, and I'm goin' to keep an eye on you from now on, just see if I don't!"
Bilbo smiled and wrapped an arm around Sam's shoulders. "I'd be glad of the help, Samwise. Between the two of us, we should be keeping this lad out of further trouble, eh?" Bilbo realized that further trouble might be closer than they thought if another cave - in should occur.
"Frodo, can you stand? We mustn't stay here any longer." Bilbo rubbed softly at a smudge of grime on Frodo's cheek. "Bell and the girls are here and they have some hot soup and bread for you, and warm blankets as well."
Frodo was already beginning to feel light - headed, but this time from the tea rather than a lack of air to breathe. "I'll try," he mumbled, and allowed Bilbo to support him by holding onto his good arm. Halfred rushed over to add his strength and Frodo was brought to his feet. It took some moments for them to negotiate the remaining rubble in the doorway, but they were in the main tunnel in short order.
Lotho looked up into his father's concerned face and spoke. "Where's Ma?"
Otho smiled faintly. "She's outside somewhere, carrying on as always," he said, his voice sounding tired. "And if you tell on me for saying that, you and I will likely both be in the healer's care," he joked.
Lotho thought about his mother wielding the infamous umbrella and smiled back briefly. The smile faded quickly as another stab of pain ran the length of his injured leg.
More supplies were brought in and the healer splinted Lotho's leg with care, trying to keep from causing unnecessary discomfort. "It's a clean break, I'll wager," Master Goodbody said as he carefully felt the limb. He motioned for a few sturdy - looking hobbits to help carry Lotho out of the room. Otho followed on their heels as they made their exit.
A cheer rose from the hobbits assembled outside as Frodo and Lotho were brought out of the hole. Bell rushed forward with blankets and the lads were taken to an empty wagon and settled as comfortably as possible.
"This is your fault, Bilbo Baggins!" Lobelia shouted as she rushed up in a fury. "Yours, and that Brandybuck's!" She pointed at Frodo who was too weary to protest.
"And how did you arrive at that conclusion, Lobelia?" Bilbo shot back, facing her and fixing her with his coldest stare. "I'd suggest we let these lads explain what happened, provided they're feeling up to it." Bilbo desperately wanted an explanation himself.
"Lotho, go ahead," Lobelia said, patting her son's arm as he lay in the wagon. "Tell us how that Bucklander got you into this, dear."
Lotho looked at his mother uneasily. Otho, while not hurling accusations like his wife, was also looking at him for an explanation. Lotho had been too preoccupied with the question of survival to think about how he would explain once salvation had come, and now he faced the moment with growing dread.
"I - that is, we - " Lotho stammered, trying to think of a way to extricate himself. If Bilbo heard the truth of the matter, the question of the Sackville - Bagginses' and the old hobbit's will would be decided against them for certain. "Well, it was like this," he began, but Frodo was already a step ahead of him. He paled anew as his cousin began to speak, fearing what was surely to come.
"It was all an accident," Frodo said softly, locking his gaze with Lotho's. "I was exploring. I'd heard a rumor that there might be some mushrooms around," Frodo said, allowing himself to enjoy the uncomfortable look that crossed Lotho's face for a moment. "Lotho was about and saw me go into the tunnel." Frodo looked at Bilbo, then back to Lotho again. "He followed me in - " he hesitated, but only briefly. " - to warn me."
Lotho looked at Frodo in disbelief. Frodo wasn't lying to the elder hobbits, but he wasn't telling the entire tale, either. Lotho reflected that he had indeed seen Frodo go into the hole, and had in fact been lying in wait for him! He had followed Frodo inside to warn him, but not of the dangers of exploring abandoned delvings.
Now Frodo was purposely keeping the truth of the matter to himself! Why? Lotho's mind was reeling. Frodo hadn't told, but he could have. And he could still, any time he wanted to. Lotho couldn't hold back a groan as he realized that Frodo had bested him handily.
Frodo gave Lotho a conspiratorial half - smile, and looked up at Bilbo again.
He hoped he had convinced his guardian of the events as he had told of them. He had seen a spark of something in Lotho's eyes as he had spoken, and he knew that Lotho was aware of what had just happened and all that it meant.
"Then it was your Bucklander's fault," Lobelia crowed in triumph. "My Lotho would never have had to go into such a horribly dangerous place had he not been kind enough to try and keep him out of trouble!" She pointed a finger perilously close to Frodo's face, and Frodo recoiled instinctively.
"Calm down, will you, Mum?" Lotho's voice was ragged and weary, but Lobelia's wagging tongue was stilled as she realized her own son was contradicting her. "Frodo didn't twist my arm and pull me in with him, you know." He looked downward with a frown as he continued. "I went in by my own choice." Again, the truth, from a certain standpoint.
Bilbo looked at Frodo sharply. Something was going on, and he wanted very much to know what it was. He had the distinct feeling of having missed something, rather like the sensation of walking into a room and hearing only part of a conversation. He raised an eyebrow as he regarded the tween, who had schooled his own features into an expression of innocence. He'd seen that look before, and he shook his head in defeat.
Bilbo climbed up to stand in the wagon and addressed the crowd of hobbits, who cheered again as he spoke.
"Thank you all for what you have done," he called out, letting his gaze drift over the listeners. "You helped save these two lads and at considerable risk to yourselves." Bilbo nodded at Otho and Lobelia. "Someone else has a few words to say, I believe."
Lobelia was clearly on the spot, and she glared at Bilbo. Otho placed a hand on her shoulder and nodded, turning her to face the crowd. "We thank you as well," Otho said, and nudged his wife. Lobelia threw a frown at him, but followed his lead. "Yes, thank you for finding our son."
Bilbo spoke again. "Let us be on our way then," he suggested. "All of you to the warmth and comfort of your homes with the satisfaction of a job well done, and we with our deepest gratitude to you for your efforts."
More cheers and a few waves came from the group as they began to scatter toward the other wagons and carts that stood nearby. Otho climbed up into the driver's seat and Lobelia remained in the back with Lotho. Bilbo was there also, and for once, silence prevailed between them as they started for Hobbiton.
Sam had re - joined his family and helped his mother and sisters pack up the supplies they had brought with them. He had wanted very much to go with Bilbo and Frodo, but he knew better than to ask. Frodo had enough good company in Bilbo for the moment, and Sam could visit his friend soon, when there had been time for Frodo to recover.
~*~Bag End, mid - morning~*~
The bell chimed and Bilbo opened the door to admit Sam. "There's a good lad, and right on time," he said crisply as he ushered Sam inside.
"I'm ready for my lessons, Mr. Bilbo," Sam said excitedly. With all the commotion, there hadn't been time to approach Sam's studies with the energy originally intended. Now that things were hopefully calming down, Sam was ready to apply himself to learning his letters and had appeared as expected that morning.
"First some tea, and then we'll begin," Bilbo said, leading Sam into the kitchen. As Sam seated himself at the table, Bilbo chatted idly while pouring the tea. "Frodo is doing much better already," he said, answering in advance what he knew would be Sam's first question.
"Where is he, Mr. Bilbo?" Sam asked curiously.
"Frodo is resting for the moment," Bilbo told him as he placed a cup and saucer in front of his young student. "He said to tell you how glad he was to see you, you know."
Sam's face colored as he listened. "I was plenty glad to see him too, Mr. Bilbo."
"I've given him one of those herbal remedies of Master Goodbody's to make sure he gets some rest and relief from pain. His shoulder is quite tender, and will be for a while," Bilbo remarked. He gave Sam a wink and a smile. "He pulled a face as sour as you please, but he took his medicine bravely otherwise."
Sam giggled at the thought of what Bilbo was describing. He had been dosed with those nasty potions enough times to know exactly what look Frodo must have worn when he drank his portion.
Bilbo's expression became more serious as he prepared books and paper for Sam's lesson. "You and Frodo have the beginnings of quite a friendship, I believe," he said, stirring his tea.
Sam looked down at his teacup uncertainly and Bilbo regarded him curiously. "Something on your mind, Sam lad? Speak it plainly, I won't bite you."
Sam looked up and stammered, "If it ain't proper, me and Mr. Frodo bein' friends at all, I'll understand."
A look of mild consternation crossed Bilbo's face as he answered. "And why would it not be proper for Frodo to have such a good friend as Samwise Gamgee?" Bilbo held Sam's gaze as he spoke. "Sometimes I wonder at the notions your Gaffer puts into your head. He's very old - fashioned, as I'm sure you're well aware." Sam nodded. "The point is, lad, Frodo could not have a better friend in all of Hobbiton than you. You are meant to be friends, I believe, and I would be quite sorry to see things any other way."
"Really, Mr. Bilbo?" Sam said, brightening somewhat. "My Gaffer don't mind it neither, but he told me not to be makin' a nuisance of myself and all."
Bilbo's eyes twinkled merrily. "That sounds just like Hamfast indeed," he admitted. "Samwise, if you are a nuisance, then I am a cave troll," he said pointedly. "Now, for your lessons." Bilbo opened a book and began to drill Sam patiently on letters and sounds, having him write each letter on the paper as they went. The time passed pleasantly with Sam putting forth his best effort and Bilbo nodding encouragingly.
A series of quiet footfalls caused Bilbo and Sam to look up, as Frodo peered into the kitchen. He hadn't wanted to interrupt Sam's lesson, but he had been awakened by his growling stomach.
"Mr. Frodo!" Sam jumped up, lessons forgotten as he hugged his friend, being mindful of Frodo's sore arm.
"Hello, Sam," Frodo laughed. "Been hard at work then?" He examined the evidence of the educational pursuits in progress.
"Mr. Bilbo showed me how to write all the letters today," Sam said enthusiastically as Bilbo nodded with approval.
"A quick study, our Samwise," Bilbo praised his student. "Sam will be reading anything he can get his hands on before we know it."
The conversation was interrupted as the doorbell rang. Frodo was suddenly glad that he had taken the time to dress properly before emerging from his room. He could just imagine his embarrassment at being caught in his nightshirt by a visitor.
The visitor in question was Sam's elder brother and he greeted Bilbo with a smile. "Good morning, Mr. Bilbo," Halfred said brightly. "I've come to fetch Samwise back home for second breakfast."
"And not a moment too soon, for he's likely worked up a great appetite with his studies," Bilbo chuckled. Sam blushed and gathered up the list of exercises Bilbo had prepared for him to take home.
"Thank you Mr. Bilbo. I'll work on my letters tonight after supper," Sam promised as he joined Halfred in the doorway.
Halfred waved to Frodo when he noticed him. "Good to see you up and about, Mr. Frodo," he called.
"It's good to be so, Halfred," Frodo answered. "I owe my thanks to you and all your family for working so hard to get me out of that tunnel."
"I'll gladly accept on behalf of all of us," Halfred answered warmly. "It weren't nothin' we wouldn't do again in a minute if need be," he assured Frodo.
"Well I do hope to spare you such efforts in the future," Frodo said ruefully. "I don't think I'll be going into any empty smials any time soon."
"You had better not, young hobbit," Bilbo said sternly. "The only thing I want to have to dig you out of is that comfy bed of yours when you've slept too late!" The comment drew laughter from the Gamgees and an embarrassed grin from Frodo.
After bidding Sam and his brother good day, Bilbo and Frodo sat down together for a bite to eat and a chat. "I have a feeling that there was more to the story than you were telling last night, Frodo," Bilbo said, coming right to the point. He fixed Frodo with a glance that said, 'I'm waiting.'
Frodo grinned sheepishly. "Nothing more to tell, really, Uncle," he answered.
Bilbo frowned. "Now, Frodo, you're not going to break your promise, are you lad? About keeping to yourself, hmmm?"
Frodo considered. "I promised not to hold out about things that are bothering me," he admitted. "But I've nothing bothering me, particularly."
"So whatever happened, you're somehow satisfied with the outcome then?" Bilbo continued to probe, looking for any grains of truth that might have slipped away unnoticed the previous night.
"I am," Frodo said simply, toying idly with a spoon. "Lotho and I have reached something of an understanding between us regarding certain matters," he said cryptically.
"An understanding? Would you care to explain further?" Bilbo tried his best to sound like an elder hobbit dealing with an exasperating tween, but in truth he was enjoying the exchange immensely. He saw Frodo's caginess as proof that the lad was growing up and had somehow dealt with the Lotho problem in his own fashion, without assistance.
"Not much to explain, really." Frodo shrugged, then winced regretfully. "When you're trapped in a confined space with someone, you learn things about them, and I think we both learned a few things about each other," he said as he rubbed his shoulder.
"Well, the day a Sackville - Baggins actually learns something is a day to mark indeed," Bilbo said with a snort. "And just what did you learn about that cousin of yours then?"
"I learned that not everyone has a trusting nature, including Lotho," Frodo answered. "Lotho seems to have a hard time trusting anyone, maybe because he hasn't always invited their trust."
"Indeed." Bilbo was impressed by the comment, finding it to be right on the mark. "One who is not trustworthy seldom trusts others." He leaned closer and watched Frodo's expression as he asked, "And what do think Lotho might have learned about you?"
"I think he learned that I mean him no harm, certainly," Frodo said as he turned the spoon over in his hands. "That I didn't show up here just to draw attention away from him or to spite him somehow." Frodo didn't want to let Bilbo see that he was aware of the adoption plans. Bilbo had obviously planned to present the idea as a surprise to him at Forelithe.
"I think he learned that you're not easily put off, either," Bilbo countered thoughtfully. "Unless I miss my guess, you kept yourself busy in that tunnel trying to dig out with naught but your fingers." Bilbo gestured to the places where angry red scratches stood out plainly on Frodo's hands. "I think you showed him that nobody bothers a Baggins, if he possesses an iota of sense."
Frodo laughed. "I don't think I'll be much troubled by Lotho, if that's what you mean," he answered. "We may not be friends, but I believe truce has been declared, at least for the time being."
"I'll take truce to open warfare, certainly," Bilbo said with a smile. "But don't think I won't be keeping my eye on you just the same," he lectured. "With the help of young Samwise, I hope to keep you out of trouble for a long time to come."
Frodo pretended to look hurt. "How unfair! Two against one!"
"No, not against, I would say," Bilbo remarked. "Sam is quite fond of you, lad. He's going to make a splendid friend."
"He already has, Uncle," Frodo said thoughtfully. "I'm very glad to have met him and his brothers."
"What about his sisters?" Bilbo teased.
Frodo rolled his eyes. "They're very nice, Uncle, but they're too young for me."
"Oh, I don't know," Bilbo continued. "Seems to me Daisy is only a few years younger than you are." Frodo looked at him pleadingly and Bilbo laughed.
"Barely a tween and already you're trying to marry me off," Frodo quipped dramatically, and he and Bilbo both dissolved into peals of laughter.
~*~To be continued~*~
Anime Princess4 - Happy reunions contained herein. Lotho's a pain in the butt. Always.
Iorhael - Saved, and not a moment too soon! Lotho? Take the good path? There ain't a wizard in Middle Earth who can make that happen!
LotRseer3350 - A couple more chapters to go, and lots of warm fuzzies!
Midgette - I see you out there! Ff.net was a little funny about letting people review the last couple chapters. Maybe it's all fixed now.
Tavion - It's nearly impossible not to like Frodo, unless you're Lotho, that is. Let's just see how Frodo handles it when everyone wants to know what happened.
QTPie2488 - When Lobelia isn't screeching in his ears, Otho can actually think!
Aratlithiel - Lotho's grudging respect for Frodo won't be enough to keep him from returning to his old, nasty self, I'm afraid. Glad you liked the rescue!
Shirebound - Yay! That about sums it up, doesn't it?
Amelia Rose - Lotho has learned a thing or two about his cousin, hasn't he? And as for the review of your story, you're welcome. It was quite nicely done.
Bookworm2000 - Lotho is unlikely to let his insight into Frodo's character keep him from behaving as nastily as ever. Frodo was having auditory hallucinations when he thought he heard Merry's voice. From one bookworm to another, we've all heard it used as an epithet!
Aeflgifu - You're getting ahead of me! LOL! Bramblethorn will be back, but not until my next fic which is still in the making. We're not quite to the end of this one yet, but I plan for to be happy! Thanks for your compliments on my gaggle of hobbits interacting with each other. I have more fun writing Bilbo every time I try it.
Endymion2 - I think you're right that Lobelia is unable to just be happy with what she has in life.
Camellia - Gamgee - Took - We found them, so lets go give them a hug. Frodo, at least.
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References to "On the Banks of the Brandywine" included.
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Chapter 20 - An Understanding
"Frodo! Oh, Frodo lad, please say something," Bilbo urged as he wrapped his arms around the youngster. "Please tell me you're all right."
Frodo gasped and coughed as fresh air filled his lungs for the first time in hours. His eyes opened to the welcome sight of Bilbo hovering over him, tired eyes bright with tears. He tried to say something but only coughed instead as his lungs attempted to clear themselves. Finally he managed to whisper a few words. "I'm so sorry, Uncle."
"Sorry? Whatever for?" Bilbo hugged him closer.
"I'm sorry for causing so much trouble," Frodo said quietly. "First Bree, now this." He coughed again.
"You did not cause any of the things you speak of, my boy," Bilbo reasoned. "You are no trouble to me, Frodo. Can't you see that you matter more to me than anything and that I would gladly do anything for you?"
"Easy, lads," a voice instructed from the newly reopened passage as Master Goodbody was helped across the threshold of the chamber. "Move me carefully, and don't move those boys until I get a look at them."
Frodo pointed at his cousin. "Lotho first. He was more badly injured than I," Frodo told the healer as he drank gratefully from a flask of water that Bilbo held to his lips.
"What about you, lad? Are you hurt?" There was real fear in Bilbo's voice as he looked Frodo over intently, searching for any signs of serious injury.
The water helped Frodo to find his voice. "My shoulder." As he was revived more fully, the pain of his injury flared to life, and he tried to keep still to avoid the stabs of agony that followed any movement of the arm.
Master Goodbody examined Lotho's swollen leg while the tween drank the water he was given. "I would say a splint is in order," he muttered as he checked for other damage. "We will have to move him carefully."
The healer turned to Frodo. "You said your shoulder was injured?" Frodo nodded and Master Goodbody prodded the joint carefully with his fingers. "Dislocated, was it?" Another nod from the patient. "It seems to be back in place now, but the muscles will remember the insult for a little while, I'm afraid." Master Goodbody noted that other than bruises and scrapes, the two tweens were in satisfactory condition.
Another hobbit came hurrying in with two mugs of steaming tea and the healer produced a couple of packets from his pocket. He dumped the herbs into the mugs and handed them to Bilbo and Otho. "There's something in the tea to ease the pain. We must get them out into the open, or risk them being injured further by another collapse."
Bilbo and Otho helped the youngsters sit up and drink the tea. They were wondering how long they dared to wait for the remedy to take effect, and looked at the ceiling above them suspiciously.
Sam made his way in and retrieved Frodo's pack. He gave Lotho a glance, but quickly turned his full attention to Frodo. "Mr. Frodo," Sam said as he knelt beside Bilbo. "Please don't go and scare me no more. I can't bear it."
The look on Sam's face went straight to Frodo's heart and he grasped his friend's hand. "I'm sorry, Sam. Thank you for helping me."
Something almost protective came into Sam's eyes. "I'll always help you, Mr. Frodo. You're the best friend I've got, and I'm goin' to keep an eye on you from now on, just see if I don't!"
Bilbo smiled and wrapped an arm around Sam's shoulders. "I'd be glad of the help, Samwise. Between the two of us, we should be keeping this lad out of further trouble, eh?" Bilbo realized that further trouble might be closer than they thought if another cave - in should occur.
"Frodo, can you stand? We mustn't stay here any longer." Bilbo rubbed softly at a smudge of grime on Frodo's cheek. "Bell and the girls are here and they have some hot soup and bread for you, and warm blankets as well."
Frodo was already beginning to feel light - headed, but this time from the tea rather than a lack of air to breathe. "I'll try," he mumbled, and allowed Bilbo to support him by holding onto his good arm. Halfred rushed over to add his strength and Frodo was brought to his feet. It took some moments for them to negotiate the remaining rubble in the doorway, but they were in the main tunnel in short order.
Lotho looked up into his father's concerned face and spoke. "Where's Ma?"
Otho smiled faintly. "She's outside somewhere, carrying on as always," he said, his voice sounding tired. "And if you tell on me for saying that, you and I will likely both be in the healer's care," he joked.
Lotho thought about his mother wielding the infamous umbrella and smiled back briefly. The smile faded quickly as another stab of pain ran the length of his injured leg.
More supplies were brought in and the healer splinted Lotho's leg with care, trying to keep from causing unnecessary discomfort. "It's a clean break, I'll wager," Master Goodbody said as he carefully felt the limb. He motioned for a few sturdy - looking hobbits to help carry Lotho out of the room. Otho followed on their heels as they made their exit.
A cheer rose from the hobbits assembled outside as Frodo and Lotho were brought out of the hole. Bell rushed forward with blankets and the lads were taken to an empty wagon and settled as comfortably as possible.
"This is your fault, Bilbo Baggins!" Lobelia shouted as she rushed up in a fury. "Yours, and that Brandybuck's!" She pointed at Frodo who was too weary to protest.
"And how did you arrive at that conclusion, Lobelia?" Bilbo shot back, facing her and fixing her with his coldest stare. "I'd suggest we let these lads explain what happened, provided they're feeling up to it." Bilbo desperately wanted an explanation himself.
"Lotho, go ahead," Lobelia said, patting her son's arm as he lay in the wagon. "Tell us how that Bucklander got you into this, dear."
Lotho looked at his mother uneasily. Otho, while not hurling accusations like his wife, was also looking at him for an explanation. Lotho had been too preoccupied with the question of survival to think about how he would explain once salvation had come, and now he faced the moment with growing dread.
"I - that is, we - " Lotho stammered, trying to think of a way to extricate himself. If Bilbo heard the truth of the matter, the question of the Sackville - Bagginses' and the old hobbit's will would be decided against them for certain. "Well, it was like this," he began, but Frodo was already a step ahead of him. He paled anew as his cousin began to speak, fearing what was surely to come.
"It was all an accident," Frodo said softly, locking his gaze with Lotho's. "I was exploring. I'd heard a rumor that there might be some mushrooms around," Frodo said, allowing himself to enjoy the uncomfortable look that crossed Lotho's face for a moment. "Lotho was about and saw me go into the tunnel." Frodo looked at Bilbo, then back to Lotho again. "He followed me in - " he hesitated, but only briefly. " - to warn me."
Lotho looked at Frodo in disbelief. Frodo wasn't lying to the elder hobbits, but he wasn't telling the entire tale, either. Lotho reflected that he had indeed seen Frodo go into the hole, and had in fact been lying in wait for him! He had followed Frodo inside to warn him, but not of the dangers of exploring abandoned delvings.
Now Frodo was purposely keeping the truth of the matter to himself! Why? Lotho's mind was reeling. Frodo hadn't told, but he could have. And he could still, any time he wanted to. Lotho couldn't hold back a groan as he realized that Frodo had bested him handily.
Frodo gave Lotho a conspiratorial half - smile, and looked up at Bilbo again.
He hoped he had convinced his guardian of the events as he had told of them. He had seen a spark of something in Lotho's eyes as he had spoken, and he knew that Lotho was aware of what had just happened and all that it meant.
"Then it was your Bucklander's fault," Lobelia crowed in triumph. "My Lotho would never have had to go into such a horribly dangerous place had he not been kind enough to try and keep him out of trouble!" She pointed a finger perilously close to Frodo's face, and Frodo recoiled instinctively.
"Calm down, will you, Mum?" Lotho's voice was ragged and weary, but Lobelia's wagging tongue was stilled as she realized her own son was contradicting her. "Frodo didn't twist my arm and pull me in with him, you know." He looked downward with a frown as he continued. "I went in by my own choice." Again, the truth, from a certain standpoint.
Bilbo looked at Frodo sharply. Something was going on, and he wanted very much to know what it was. He had the distinct feeling of having missed something, rather like the sensation of walking into a room and hearing only part of a conversation. He raised an eyebrow as he regarded the tween, who had schooled his own features into an expression of innocence. He'd seen that look before, and he shook his head in defeat.
Bilbo climbed up to stand in the wagon and addressed the crowd of hobbits, who cheered again as he spoke.
"Thank you all for what you have done," he called out, letting his gaze drift over the listeners. "You helped save these two lads and at considerable risk to yourselves." Bilbo nodded at Otho and Lobelia. "Someone else has a few words to say, I believe."
Lobelia was clearly on the spot, and she glared at Bilbo. Otho placed a hand on her shoulder and nodded, turning her to face the crowd. "We thank you as well," Otho said, and nudged his wife. Lobelia threw a frown at him, but followed his lead. "Yes, thank you for finding our son."
Bilbo spoke again. "Let us be on our way then," he suggested. "All of you to the warmth and comfort of your homes with the satisfaction of a job well done, and we with our deepest gratitude to you for your efforts."
More cheers and a few waves came from the group as they began to scatter toward the other wagons and carts that stood nearby. Otho climbed up into the driver's seat and Lobelia remained in the back with Lotho. Bilbo was there also, and for once, silence prevailed between them as they started for Hobbiton.
Sam had re - joined his family and helped his mother and sisters pack up the supplies they had brought with them. He had wanted very much to go with Bilbo and Frodo, but he knew better than to ask. Frodo had enough good company in Bilbo for the moment, and Sam could visit his friend soon, when there had been time for Frodo to recover.
~*~Bag End, mid - morning~*~
The bell chimed and Bilbo opened the door to admit Sam. "There's a good lad, and right on time," he said crisply as he ushered Sam inside.
"I'm ready for my lessons, Mr. Bilbo," Sam said excitedly. With all the commotion, there hadn't been time to approach Sam's studies with the energy originally intended. Now that things were hopefully calming down, Sam was ready to apply himself to learning his letters and had appeared as expected that morning.
"First some tea, and then we'll begin," Bilbo said, leading Sam into the kitchen. As Sam seated himself at the table, Bilbo chatted idly while pouring the tea. "Frodo is doing much better already," he said, answering in advance what he knew would be Sam's first question.
"Where is he, Mr. Bilbo?" Sam asked curiously.
"Frodo is resting for the moment," Bilbo told him as he placed a cup and saucer in front of his young student. "He said to tell you how glad he was to see you, you know."
Sam's face colored as he listened. "I was plenty glad to see him too, Mr. Bilbo."
"I've given him one of those herbal remedies of Master Goodbody's to make sure he gets some rest and relief from pain. His shoulder is quite tender, and will be for a while," Bilbo remarked. He gave Sam a wink and a smile. "He pulled a face as sour as you please, but he took his medicine bravely otherwise."
Sam giggled at the thought of what Bilbo was describing. He had been dosed with those nasty potions enough times to know exactly what look Frodo must have worn when he drank his portion.
Bilbo's expression became more serious as he prepared books and paper for Sam's lesson. "You and Frodo have the beginnings of quite a friendship, I believe," he said, stirring his tea.
Sam looked down at his teacup uncertainly and Bilbo regarded him curiously. "Something on your mind, Sam lad? Speak it plainly, I won't bite you."
Sam looked up and stammered, "If it ain't proper, me and Mr. Frodo bein' friends at all, I'll understand."
A look of mild consternation crossed Bilbo's face as he answered. "And why would it not be proper for Frodo to have such a good friend as Samwise Gamgee?" Bilbo held Sam's gaze as he spoke. "Sometimes I wonder at the notions your Gaffer puts into your head. He's very old - fashioned, as I'm sure you're well aware." Sam nodded. "The point is, lad, Frodo could not have a better friend in all of Hobbiton than you. You are meant to be friends, I believe, and I would be quite sorry to see things any other way."
"Really, Mr. Bilbo?" Sam said, brightening somewhat. "My Gaffer don't mind it neither, but he told me not to be makin' a nuisance of myself and all."
Bilbo's eyes twinkled merrily. "That sounds just like Hamfast indeed," he admitted. "Samwise, if you are a nuisance, then I am a cave troll," he said pointedly. "Now, for your lessons." Bilbo opened a book and began to drill Sam patiently on letters and sounds, having him write each letter on the paper as they went. The time passed pleasantly with Sam putting forth his best effort and Bilbo nodding encouragingly.
A series of quiet footfalls caused Bilbo and Sam to look up, as Frodo peered into the kitchen. He hadn't wanted to interrupt Sam's lesson, but he had been awakened by his growling stomach.
"Mr. Frodo!" Sam jumped up, lessons forgotten as he hugged his friend, being mindful of Frodo's sore arm.
"Hello, Sam," Frodo laughed. "Been hard at work then?" He examined the evidence of the educational pursuits in progress.
"Mr. Bilbo showed me how to write all the letters today," Sam said enthusiastically as Bilbo nodded with approval.
"A quick study, our Samwise," Bilbo praised his student. "Sam will be reading anything he can get his hands on before we know it."
The conversation was interrupted as the doorbell rang. Frodo was suddenly glad that he had taken the time to dress properly before emerging from his room. He could just imagine his embarrassment at being caught in his nightshirt by a visitor.
The visitor in question was Sam's elder brother and he greeted Bilbo with a smile. "Good morning, Mr. Bilbo," Halfred said brightly. "I've come to fetch Samwise back home for second breakfast."
"And not a moment too soon, for he's likely worked up a great appetite with his studies," Bilbo chuckled. Sam blushed and gathered up the list of exercises Bilbo had prepared for him to take home.
"Thank you Mr. Bilbo. I'll work on my letters tonight after supper," Sam promised as he joined Halfred in the doorway.
Halfred waved to Frodo when he noticed him. "Good to see you up and about, Mr. Frodo," he called.
"It's good to be so, Halfred," Frodo answered. "I owe my thanks to you and all your family for working so hard to get me out of that tunnel."
"I'll gladly accept on behalf of all of us," Halfred answered warmly. "It weren't nothin' we wouldn't do again in a minute if need be," he assured Frodo.
"Well I do hope to spare you such efforts in the future," Frodo said ruefully. "I don't think I'll be going into any empty smials any time soon."
"You had better not, young hobbit," Bilbo said sternly. "The only thing I want to have to dig you out of is that comfy bed of yours when you've slept too late!" The comment drew laughter from the Gamgees and an embarrassed grin from Frodo.
After bidding Sam and his brother good day, Bilbo and Frodo sat down together for a bite to eat and a chat. "I have a feeling that there was more to the story than you were telling last night, Frodo," Bilbo said, coming right to the point. He fixed Frodo with a glance that said, 'I'm waiting.'
Frodo grinned sheepishly. "Nothing more to tell, really, Uncle," he answered.
Bilbo frowned. "Now, Frodo, you're not going to break your promise, are you lad? About keeping to yourself, hmmm?"
Frodo considered. "I promised not to hold out about things that are bothering me," he admitted. "But I've nothing bothering me, particularly."
"So whatever happened, you're somehow satisfied with the outcome then?" Bilbo continued to probe, looking for any grains of truth that might have slipped away unnoticed the previous night.
"I am," Frodo said simply, toying idly with a spoon. "Lotho and I have reached something of an understanding between us regarding certain matters," he said cryptically.
"An understanding? Would you care to explain further?" Bilbo tried his best to sound like an elder hobbit dealing with an exasperating tween, but in truth he was enjoying the exchange immensely. He saw Frodo's caginess as proof that the lad was growing up and had somehow dealt with the Lotho problem in his own fashion, without assistance.
"Not much to explain, really." Frodo shrugged, then winced regretfully. "When you're trapped in a confined space with someone, you learn things about them, and I think we both learned a few things about each other," he said as he rubbed his shoulder.
"Well, the day a Sackville - Baggins actually learns something is a day to mark indeed," Bilbo said with a snort. "And just what did you learn about that cousin of yours then?"
"I learned that not everyone has a trusting nature, including Lotho," Frodo answered. "Lotho seems to have a hard time trusting anyone, maybe because he hasn't always invited their trust."
"Indeed." Bilbo was impressed by the comment, finding it to be right on the mark. "One who is not trustworthy seldom trusts others." He leaned closer and watched Frodo's expression as he asked, "And what do think Lotho might have learned about you?"
"I think he learned that I mean him no harm, certainly," Frodo said as he turned the spoon over in his hands. "That I didn't show up here just to draw attention away from him or to spite him somehow." Frodo didn't want to let Bilbo see that he was aware of the adoption plans. Bilbo had obviously planned to present the idea as a surprise to him at Forelithe.
"I think he learned that you're not easily put off, either," Bilbo countered thoughtfully. "Unless I miss my guess, you kept yourself busy in that tunnel trying to dig out with naught but your fingers." Bilbo gestured to the places where angry red scratches stood out plainly on Frodo's hands. "I think you showed him that nobody bothers a Baggins, if he possesses an iota of sense."
Frodo laughed. "I don't think I'll be much troubled by Lotho, if that's what you mean," he answered. "We may not be friends, but I believe truce has been declared, at least for the time being."
"I'll take truce to open warfare, certainly," Bilbo said with a smile. "But don't think I won't be keeping my eye on you just the same," he lectured. "With the help of young Samwise, I hope to keep you out of trouble for a long time to come."
Frodo pretended to look hurt. "How unfair! Two against one!"
"No, not against, I would say," Bilbo remarked. "Sam is quite fond of you, lad. He's going to make a splendid friend."
"He already has, Uncle," Frodo said thoughtfully. "I'm very glad to have met him and his brothers."
"What about his sisters?" Bilbo teased.
Frodo rolled his eyes. "They're very nice, Uncle, but they're too young for me."
"Oh, I don't know," Bilbo continued. "Seems to me Daisy is only a few years younger than you are." Frodo looked at him pleadingly and Bilbo laughed.
"Barely a tween and already you're trying to marry me off," Frodo quipped dramatically, and he and Bilbo both dissolved into peals of laughter.
~*~To be continued~*~