Gemmas - I don't know why we put Frodo through so much. Probably because his strength through adversity is one of his strongest character traits.
Endymion2 - I had a hard time deciding to do away with Bramblethorn. I tried writing a scene where he gets away, but it was completely anticlimactic. The bit with Bramblethorn dying in Frodo's arms might seem a bit hackneyed in a way, but given Frodo's ability to pity even the most messed up creatures, I allowed it. Bramblethorn's death did, in a way, take something from the rescue scene, but this story is about him and Frodo, and obsession leading to a tragic end.
Iorhael - Nightmares, indeed! Frodo need fear no more physical harm from his departed enemy, but the effects will linger.
Camellia Gamgee - Took - I'm sorry to see Bramby go myself. I got to know him so well, you know! But I realized there were only so many times I could bring him back to cause trouble. All things must come to an end. That's the tragic element of this story, the fact that Bramblethorn could have yet made something better of himself had he lived. Turmoil ahead, definitely.
Aelfgifu - I knew the last chapter would be hard for you, dear. It was hard for me, too. I've never killed any of my characters before.
Breon Briarwood - Wow, indeed. Bramblethorn is gone, but not forgotten!
Trust No One - I hope I didn't overdramatize. Bramblethorn is a bit over the top on his own, so I had to keep him in character without overdoing it. You will see some of the healing process in this fic as Frodo comes to grips with the aftermath.
GamgeeFest - Bramby's moment of truth has come, but sadly, too late. Frodo does not know what to think regarding Sam now, and that will be the source of angst to come.
Stephanie - The tragic element of this story was definitely Bramblethorn's passing before he could truly redeem himself. He'd pretty well lost it, though. Sam will be there when Frodo needs him most.
Sam - Thank you for your comments. I wanted the last chapter to evoke some emotion, and it looks like it did!
Hobbitfeet13 - All that's happened does make you wonder why Bramblethorn was the way he was and if things could have been different. Maybe someday I'll invent a back story to explain some of it. I'm not sure it would really be fit for ff.net, though, since the main character would not be one of Tolkiens.
The Lady of Mirkwood - Frodo is finally safe with the people who love him most. Now he will have to face the memories of his experience. Pippin is soon to escape Tuckborough and see our other favorite hobbits again. Sam is soon to be absolutely certain of what Bramblethorn did to Frodo. He won't be able to deny it any longer.
R.B. - Poor Bramblethorn, yes. In the end he was much to be pitied. And now, Frodo has to face the aftermath of all that's happened to him.
Anarie - Frodo is so kind that he could not deny even such a vicious enemy as Bramblethorn his final request. Frodo will have to face a brave attempt to break through his fears and memories in coming chapters, and Sam will be there to help him.
Shelbyshire - Bramblethorn was just twisted enough by the time of his demise that he just might have taken Frodo's life to keep him from being with someone else. An alternate ending might be fun to write, who knows? But I agree, there was not much more that Bramblethorn could really do to Frodo at this point.
Spootasia Tomoe - There will be more catharsis in this chapter too, for just about everyone. Bramblethorn was to be pitied, certainly. He was deserving of all the anger the other characters felt toward him, but he was something of a tragic figure as well.
FrodoBaggins1982 - Frodo's courage is one of the greatest things about him. It would have been enjoyable to see Sam get Monto by the throat and tell him a thing or two, but with Bramblethorn escaping with Frodo, there wasn't time. You're right that the scene was meant to happen at a fast pace! In this chapter, Frodo will share his knowledge with Merry about how the harvest was ruined. Your idea regarding Bramblethorn's worldly possessions spurred additions to this chapter and others. I didn't end up adding a reading of the will, but I'm going to let everyone into the house to find a thing or two! I've actually written some 'early Bramblethorn era' vignettes, and I've found a way to use some of it in this story!
Just - dropped - by - I was sorry to see Bramby go in a way too. After all, he was the first true OC I've created, and he literally grew on me. He was supposed to be a one - shot for "In Safekeeping". The prologue is meant as a tonge - in - cheek reminder that all of this is, after all, a fiction. Bramblethorn himself said that no hobbits were actually harmed in the making of this tale. In short, it was really sort of like an actor introducing a show. The character may die, but the actor lives on. And who better to warn the audience of his own nasty behavior than Bramblethorn? Heh heh!
Wilwarin - Bramblethorn will trouble Frodo no more, at least not by his physical presence. Frodo is an extraordinary hobbit, isn't he?
Monet - It was hard for me to finish off my villain. I've known him for so long! Frodo will need a lot of love now and he'll get it.
Peony - There was some danger of an arrow going astray and hitting Frodo, but thankfully that didn't happen! I'll miss Bramby in an odd way, but it was time.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
This chapter has undergone a revision and is now a bit longer than before. Reviews have brought new thoughts with them, and have made me think of places where something was lacking and more of the story could be told. Thank you all for your input and your musings, as they've helped me expand and flesh out this tale!
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Chapter 26 - Rights and Wrongs
It was late morning and Sam was preparing tea for Frodo when there came a light tapping on the door. "You stay where you are, Mr. Frodo," Sam said as he crossed the room. "You haven't got near enough rest, by my reckoning." There were no arguments from Frodo, who simply lay back against the pillows and closed his eyes again. He felt as if he could easily sleep for the next month.
Sam opened the door to admit the other hobbits. Saradoc looked over at Frodo and whispered, "We can talk later, if - "
"No, it's all right," Frodo said, opening his eyes again. The presence of the other hobbits would be a welcome distraction from his own thoughts.
Merry seated himself on the bed next to Frodo. The cut on his arm had been bandaged, and he had a bruise on his forehead. "How are you feeling, Frodo?" he asked quietly.
"I'm tired," Frodo admitted, "but not too tired to see all of you." Frodo examined Merry with a critical eye, noting the bruise and gazing again at the bandage on his cousin's arm.
"Don't give me that look, Frodo," Merry chided. "I gave back more than I got, rest assured."
"That he did," Merimac confirmed. "Brawling like the lads along the river, he was. I wonder where he learned such skills, given the fact that such behavior is forbidden at Brandy Hall."
"Lads will be lads, Mac," Saradoc said wryly. "The Brandybuck temper can only be suppressed so far, rules of the Hall notwithstanding." Merry had been caught fighting on only a few occasions, when he had been pushed beyond his considerable endurance. Those who had incurred his wrath seldom did so again.
"Enough about me," Merry said decisively, giving Frodo's knee a pat. "We came to tell you of our plans."
"What plans?" Frodo asked. There was something in Merry's tone that hinted at satisfaction. "Isn't it time we should go back to the Shire? We've been gone so long, and there's the grain - "
"You're not ready to travel yet, and you know it," Merry chided gently. "We'll be here just a little while longer, so we might as well do something useful while we can."
"What are you getting at, Mr. Merry?" Sam regarded Merry quizzically.
"Remember when I told you I had purchased more grain than was needed, and that I had a mind to get back at Bramblethorn?" Merry asked. Sam nodded. "What I had been planning was to sell the extra in the marketplace at a low price and expose Bramblethorn for the scoundrel and cheat that he was. It would have ruined his tidy little arrangement completely."
"That's hardly going to be necessary now, Merry," Frodo said calmly. Bramblethorn had paid the ultimate price for his transgressions, and it would hardly matter if his deeds were made public now.
"True, but Bramblethorn owed a debt to the people of Bree for cheating them," Merry countered. "Those two fellows he hired to do his dirty work confessed their parts in the entire scheme, and we know where the remainder of Bramblethorn's grain is stored. Darien is going to confiscate it and distribute it free to the people in the marketplace, and we're to help him do it!"
There was a hint of pride and excitement in Merry's voice as he spoke, but try as he might, Frodo found that he could not match his cousin's enthusiasm. He was still very tired and his entire body ached. He mustered a small smile and said, "That's a splendid idea, Merry."
Merry noticed Frodo's demeanor and he spoke gently. "I didn't think you would feel up to coming with us, but if you do - "
Frodo shook his head. "No, thank you, Merry. I would only be getting in the way."
Merry's brow creased slightly, but he let the moment pass. It was only natural for Frodo to sound tired and even a little disheartened. He had been through so much, and the shock to his system must be enormous.
"I'll stay here with Mr. Frodo, if you please," Sam volunteered. He absolutely wasn't going to leave Frodo's side for longer than it took to get breakfast from the innkeeper.
"You're predictable as the seasons, Sam," Merry answered. "You're needed most here, it's true." He gave Frodo's knee one last pat and stood. "We'll be back in a few hours, Frodo. You rest easy and let Sam care for you."
"Could I do aught else?" Frodo said, trying to keep his tone light for Merry's benefit. It was a constant effort to keep his thoughts from wandering back to his experiences as Bramblethorn's captive. I mustn't burden them with it, for I've burdened them enough, he thought to himself.
"Off we go, then, on our good errand," Merimac said, grabbing Ned and Saradoc by their arms and hauling them toward the door. "Let's let Frodo rest while we treat the folk of Bree to all the grain they can carry!"
Merry smiled at his uncle's enthusiasm and made for the door, casting a quick glance at Sam. Help him, Sam, Merry's eyes said silently. Don't let him be afraid. Let him know that he's safe.
Sam motioned for Merry to wait. "Before you go, I need to get something for Mr. Frodo's breakfast. Will you stay with him while I go find the innkeeper?"
"Absolutely, Sam," Merry answered, resuming his position at Frodo's side. To the others he said, "I'll meet you by the stables in a few minutes." Ned, Saradoc and Merimac continued on their way to meet Darien.
The worry in Sam's face eased considerably with the knowledge that he wouldn't have to leave Frodo alone. "I'll be back right quick, Mr. Frodo. You just rest a bit."
Frodo nodded and lay back against the pillows as Sam left the room and closed the door softly behind him. Frodo caught himself listening for the sound of a bolt sliding into place, locking him in, but none came.
"Frodo?" Merry queried, having seen the sudden change in Frodo's expression.
Frodo was startled back to his present surroundings by his cousin's voice. "I'm fine, Merry, really," he said dismissively, silently berating himself for allowing Merry to see his discomfiture.
"Are you, Frodo?" Merry pressed gently. "We're all very concerned about you, you know."
"I know you are, and I appreciate all of you so much," Frodo answered honestly. "But you mustn't fret over me, Merry. I'll be all right, really."
Is he trying to convince me, or himself? Merry eyed Frodo critically. It was evident that he had suffered at the hands of Bramblethorn and his bodyguards. It seemed every inch of exposed skin bore at least a hint of bruising. And what of the other effects of his captivity? Merry wondered with dread what, exactly, Frodo had been made to endure. Sam knew at least in part, Merry thought, but there was something about the gardener's demeanor that caused Merry to balk at the thought of inquiring further. It was too soon to expect Frodo to unburden himself regarding such an experience.
"I know you will," Merry answered simply. "Sam must be influencing me. I'm starting to sound like him, aren't I?"
Frodo gave Merry's hand a light squeeze. "You've always been there for me Merry, even when we were much younger. Sam was not the first to hover over me like a mother hen, you know."
"Can't help it," Merry said with a grin. "It's a tough job, but someone has to do it."
Frodo's demeanor became serious. "Merry, I have to tell you - "
Merry shook his head. "No, Frodo, you don't have to do or say anything."
"Listen to me Merry, please," Frodo continued, capturing his cousin's gaze with his own. "The failure of the harvest," he said rather haltingly, "it was his fault. Bramblethorn - "
Merry stared at Frodo. "What? Frodo, what are you saying?"
"Bramblethorn ruined the harvest in Buckland," Frodo explained. "He came across the weed here, in Bree. He sent Monto and Anson to sow the seeds in Buckland's fields."
Merry's expression darkened. "So that's how it got there," he muttered. "But why, Frodo? Why would he do such a thing?"
"Revenge," Frodo said quietly. "And for his own gain. He knew that you would have to seek outside the Shire for help. With his control over the supply of grain in Bree - "
"Ah," Merry replied, nodding. "I see now. He was counting on us having to come here." As if suddenly realizing what his words meant, Merry hastily glanced at Frodo and continued, "But he couldn't have known you'd - "
"No, Merry. He could not have known you, Sam and I would come together. It's not your fault. You mustn't blame yourself."
The door opened again and Sam returned with a tray laden with bread, fruit and a steaming bowl of broth. "Thank you, Mr. Merry. Mr. Frodo's breakfast is ready."
"You eat and rest," Merry commanded as he rose from the bed. He was glad of the interruption at that point. "We're going to the market now, so I'll see you when we get back." He waved at Sam as he left the room.
"If you wanted to go with them, you could have, Sam," Frodo said as he stirred the broth. "I'm sure I would be safe here."
Sam shook his head. "A crowded marketplace doesn't sound appealing to me, if you understand. I'd much rather stay here with you, Mr. Frodo."
"As you like, Sam," Frodo answered. He tasted the broth and smiled. "This is just what I need. Thank you."
"If you want more the innkeeper said just to ask," Sam replied. "He's a nice man, Mr. Frodo. He was a little put out with me and Mr. Merry for leavin' unexpected to go to Buckland, but he ain't upset about it now."
"I'm sorry there's been so much trouble on my account," Frodo said softly. "You and Merry have endured so much, and all of Brandy Hall must be in a terrible uproar - "
"Now don't you worry none about Brandy Hall, Mr. Frodo," Sam said with a frown. "You've done a great deal to help the folks there, and they'll find no fault with you."
Frodo didn't answer. Instead, he took another spoonful of the broth.
Unable to think of any more to say at the moment, Sam set about tidying up the room. What should he say at a time like this? He certainly didn't want to bring up anything that might cause Frodo distress, but it also seemed like idle Shire gossip wasn't quite appropriate either. If I ask him how he's feelin' again, he'll probably tell me to mind my place and let him be, Sam thought sadly.
Something like a contented sigh brought Sam out of his reverie a few minutes later. Frodo had finished the broth and a little bread and fruit. "I think I'll try to sleep for a while, Sam," he said as he leaned back.
"If you need anything I'll be here," Sam promised as he took the tray and placed it on the table nearby. He fluffed up the pillows and tucked the blankets snugly around Frodo again. Before long, Frodo was sleeping peacefully and Sam took up his place in the chair nearby.
~*~
"So this is it, then?" Merry asked, gazing at the large wooden barn on the outskirts of the village.
"Yes, or so the two we have in custody said," Darien answered, referring to Monto and Anson's confessions. "Inside there should be a supply of grain fit to feed the whole of Bree for months and then some."
There was only one problem. The door was held shut by a heavy metal lock that looked as if it could defy any attempt to open it by force.
"Where did he get this?" Merry asked, fingering the lock. "It looks almost like it's of Dwarf make."
"It could be," Darien answered. By now Ned, Saradoc and Merimac had leapt out of the wagon and gathered around to peer at the thing that barred their entrance to the building.
"Well, whoever made it, we must find a way over, under or through it," Merimac remarked helpfully.
"The key," Saradoc said, considering. "Did you find the key when you - " he broke off, trying to find a way to phrase the question. "Bramblethorn didn't happen to have it with him when he - "
"We found no key," Darien said with a shake of his head.
"There must be one, back at his smial someplace," Merry surmised. He fixed Darien with a sharp gaze. "Did they tell you where he lived?"
"As a matter of fact, they did," Darien said. "It would be a shame to damage the doors of this building unnecessarily. Perhaps we should look for the key there before we resort to such actions."
Merry thought for a moment, then nodded. The idea of going near Bramblethorn's smial was repellent in and of itself, but if it made their entrance easier, he was willing. Besides, who knew what else they might learn in the bargain? Perhaps Bramblethorn had been up to more than what had already come to light.
"All right, let's go. Let's see if we can find the key." Merry turned and began to walk back toward the wagon. Saradoc looked from Darien to his son's retreating form and nodded. It might be unpleasant, visiting the place of Frodo's imprisonment, but there was good reason. The idea of merely breaking into the structure was abandoned for the moment as Darien and the hobbits prepared to make their way to Bramblethorn's smial.
~*~
"Are you sure this is it?" Merry asked as he looked around. There were a number of large smials in the hills above the village. He and Sam had been blindfolded when they had been brought to Bramblethorn's lair to hear the terrible ultimatum he had given them.
"Those two fellows told all," Darien said, surveying the property. "They were hoping to lighten their own punishments by cooperating. In doing so, they've given us much information."
Merimac tried the door. It was locked and refused to budge. "Did anyone happen to find the key to this?" he asked.
"No, but perhaps there's an open window," Darien said thoughtfully. The hobbits were small enough that one of them might be able to get inside by such means and open the door for the rest of them.
The entire company circled the dwelling, looking for any easy access to the inside. Soon, Merry called out, "Here! This one isn't locked!" He peered in the round window carefully. "Someone give me a boost!"
Saradoc and Merimac laced their fingers together to give Merry a lift up to the window. Merry pushed for all he was worth, and the window swung in, causing him to fall through the open portal into the room beyond.
Merry brushed himself off as he rose to his feet. He was inside Bramblethorn's smial again, this time in a room he had never seen before. A bedroom. Merry glanced around apprehensively. Breaking and entering was not something he was at all accustomed to, and the very knowledge of who this property had belonged to was unnerving.
Suddenly Merry felt the urge to get out of the room as soon as possible. There was something about the thought of standing in Bramblethorn's bedroom that bothered him immensely. Had Frodo been forced into this room, he wondered? Best not to think of that now. "Give me a moment to find the door and open it," he called out the window to the others.
After a few wrong turns down one corridor or another, Merry found the front door and opened it with a sweeping gesture. "Greetings," he announced, "the way is open."
The rest of the searchers entered the smial, the hobbits comfortably and Darien less so, having to duck to keep from knocking his head against the beams across the ceiling.
"Now if I were a mad, egotistical hobbit, where would I keep the key to a shed full of grain?" Merimac asked, looking around curiously.
Merry ignored the comment and began to wander down the nearest hallway. He peered into the first room he came to and a look of recognition crossed his face. "I've been here," he remarked. "This is Bramblethorn's study. This is where he made his demands for the ransom and payment for the grain."
"As likely a place to search as any," Saradoc said as he appraised the room.
The group fanned out and everyone began to search through drawers and nooks. Merry stood looking down at the writing desk and absently flipped open the cover of a book that lay upon it. The cover was a richly - dyed blue leather, almost the color of Frodo's eyes, he realized. His eyes fell upon the writing on the page and he realized what it was he beheld - Bramblethorn's diary!
There was something disconcerting about the idea of looking at such a thing on general principals, he realized, but he couldn't help himself. Glancing furtively around at the other occupants of the room who were absorbed elsewhere, he picked up the book and tucked it inside his weskit.
"Ah! I may have found it," Darien exclaimed, and Merry whirled around to see the tall man holding up a brass ring with a selection of keys hanging from it. "There's at least some chance the key we seek may be one of these," he surmised. The search continued for a short while longer as the other rooms were inspected. No other keys were found, and the group left the dwelling as they had found it, but for the absence of the small leather - bound volume Merry had hidden from the others.
~*~
The lock clicked open with satisfying ease. The key Darien and the hobbits had sought had indeed been one of those hanging on the brass ring. As the doors swung open, the afternoon sunlight streamed into the wooden building, illuminating many sacks of grain, stacked one atop the other.
"Will you look at that," Saradoc said, his gaze roving around the room.
"It seems the deceased did indeed hold much of the grain in the nearby environs," Darien agreed. "He will not need it now, and the folk of Bree certainly shall. Fellows, our errand awaits us."
With that the hobbits formed a line and began to hand the sacks along to one another. They loaded the wagon as full as they could manage and locked the door behind them. There was still plenty of grain left, and it looked like the better part of the day would be spent in its distribution.
~*~
Curious looks met the four hobbits and the man as they rolled into the marketplace in a large wagon laden with sacks of grain. Merry and Ned jumped out and settled the horses while Darien stood atop the sacks and called for the attention of the crowd that was gathering.
"People of Bree," he began in a loud, clear tone, "hear me! For months you have paid a great cost for your bread, when it could be found at all."
Nods of assent came from the crowd.
"You may have been led to believe that grain was in short supply in Bree, and that the price of such a scarce commodity was justified." Darien gestured to the sacks around him. "But I tell you that grain is not hard to come by in Bree, or at least it shall not be any longer."
Gasps rose from the people who had gathered around the wagon. "Look, he's got a wagon full of it!" someone exclaimed. "Where did it come from?"
"You were deceived by Rushford Bramblethorn, a resident of Breehill," Darien explained. "He gained control of the supply of grain in and about Bree and he sold it to you at a premium."
"He was hoardin' it!" A man gasped indignantly, and murmurs rose from the people near him.
"Yes, good sir, he was," Darien confirmed. "But now his scheme is exposed and his debt to the people of Bree is to be paid in full. You will all receive a share of the grain you see here, free of charge."
A cheer erupted from the growing crowd as Saradoc and Merimac helped lower the back of the wagon to make the grain accessible. As thrilled as the people were, they maintained a semblance of order as the sacks were parceled out. There was no pushing and shoving, just jubilation as sack after sack of grain was placed in their waiting hands. Several people asked the fate of the hobbit who had cheated them, and Darien quietly replied that Bramblethorn had been killed while attempting to escape capture.
The unloading continued until the wagon was empty. The people were still coming, and Darien told them to wait for the next load. They had yet to completely empty Bramblethorn's storehouse of its contents, but they surely would by the time the afternoon came to a close.
To and fro from the market to Bramblethorn's granary the wagon went during the afternoon, until everyone who had answered Darien's summons had received his share of the grain. Darien shook the hand of each of the hobbits and congratulated them on a job well done.
~*~To be continued~*~
Endymion2 - I had a hard time deciding to do away with Bramblethorn. I tried writing a scene where he gets away, but it was completely anticlimactic. The bit with Bramblethorn dying in Frodo's arms might seem a bit hackneyed in a way, but given Frodo's ability to pity even the most messed up creatures, I allowed it. Bramblethorn's death did, in a way, take something from the rescue scene, but this story is about him and Frodo, and obsession leading to a tragic end.
Iorhael - Nightmares, indeed! Frodo need fear no more physical harm from his departed enemy, but the effects will linger.
Camellia Gamgee - Took - I'm sorry to see Bramby go myself. I got to know him so well, you know! But I realized there were only so many times I could bring him back to cause trouble. All things must come to an end. That's the tragic element of this story, the fact that Bramblethorn could have yet made something better of himself had he lived. Turmoil ahead, definitely.
Aelfgifu - I knew the last chapter would be hard for you, dear. It was hard for me, too. I've never killed any of my characters before.
Breon Briarwood - Wow, indeed. Bramblethorn is gone, but not forgotten!
Trust No One - I hope I didn't overdramatize. Bramblethorn is a bit over the top on his own, so I had to keep him in character without overdoing it. You will see some of the healing process in this fic as Frodo comes to grips with the aftermath.
GamgeeFest - Bramby's moment of truth has come, but sadly, too late. Frodo does not know what to think regarding Sam now, and that will be the source of angst to come.
Stephanie - The tragic element of this story was definitely Bramblethorn's passing before he could truly redeem himself. He'd pretty well lost it, though. Sam will be there when Frodo needs him most.
Sam - Thank you for your comments. I wanted the last chapter to evoke some emotion, and it looks like it did!
Hobbitfeet13 - All that's happened does make you wonder why Bramblethorn was the way he was and if things could have been different. Maybe someday I'll invent a back story to explain some of it. I'm not sure it would really be fit for ff.net, though, since the main character would not be one of Tolkiens.
The Lady of Mirkwood - Frodo is finally safe with the people who love him most. Now he will have to face the memories of his experience. Pippin is soon to escape Tuckborough and see our other favorite hobbits again. Sam is soon to be absolutely certain of what Bramblethorn did to Frodo. He won't be able to deny it any longer.
R.B. - Poor Bramblethorn, yes. In the end he was much to be pitied. And now, Frodo has to face the aftermath of all that's happened to him.
Anarie - Frodo is so kind that he could not deny even such a vicious enemy as Bramblethorn his final request. Frodo will have to face a brave attempt to break through his fears and memories in coming chapters, and Sam will be there to help him.
Shelbyshire - Bramblethorn was just twisted enough by the time of his demise that he just might have taken Frodo's life to keep him from being with someone else. An alternate ending might be fun to write, who knows? But I agree, there was not much more that Bramblethorn could really do to Frodo at this point.
Spootasia Tomoe - There will be more catharsis in this chapter too, for just about everyone. Bramblethorn was to be pitied, certainly. He was deserving of all the anger the other characters felt toward him, but he was something of a tragic figure as well.
FrodoBaggins1982 - Frodo's courage is one of the greatest things about him. It would have been enjoyable to see Sam get Monto by the throat and tell him a thing or two, but with Bramblethorn escaping with Frodo, there wasn't time. You're right that the scene was meant to happen at a fast pace! In this chapter, Frodo will share his knowledge with Merry about how the harvest was ruined. Your idea regarding Bramblethorn's worldly possessions spurred additions to this chapter and others. I didn't end up adding a reading of the will, but I'm going to let everyone into the house to find a thing or two! I've actually written some 'early Bramblethorn era' vignettes, and I've found a way to use some of it in this story!
Just - dropped - by - I was sorry to see Bramby go in a way too. After all, he was the first true OC I've created, and he literally grew on me. He was supposed to be a one - shot for "In Safekeeping". The prologue is meant as a tonge - in - cheek reminder that all of this is, after all, a fiction. Bramblethorn himself said that no hobbits were actually harmed in the making of this tale. In short, it was really sort of like an actor introducing a show. The character may die, but the actor lives on. And who better to warn the audience of his own nasty behavior than Bramblethorn? Heh heh!
Wilwarin - Bramblethorn will trouble Frodo no more, at least not by his physical presence. Frodo is an extraordinary hobbit, isn't he?
Monet - It was hard for me to finish off my villain. I've known him for so long! Frodo will need a lot of love now and he'll get it.
Peony - There was some danger of an arrow going astray and hitting Frodo, but thankfully that didn't happen! I'll miss Bramby in an odd way, but it was time.
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
This chapter has undergone a revision and is now a bit longer than before. Reviews have brought new thoughts with them, and have made me think of places where something was lacking and more of the story could be told. Thank you all for your input and your musings, as they've helped me expand and flesh out this tale!
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
Chapter 26 - Rights and Wrongs
It was late morning and Sam was preparing tea for Frodo when there came a light tapping on the door. "You stay where you are, Mr. Frodo," Sam said as he crossed the room. "You haven't got near enough rest, by my reckoning." There were no arguments from Frodo, who simply lay back against the pillows and closed his eyes again. He felt as if he could easily sleep for the next month.
Sam opened the door to admit the other hobbits. Saradoc looked over at Frodo and whispered, "We can talk later, if - "
"No, it's all right," Frodo said, opening his eyes again. The presence of the other hobbits would be a welcome distraction from his own thoughts.
Merry seated himself on the bed next to Frodo. The cut on his arm had been bandaged, and he had a bruise on his forehead. "How are you feeling, Frodo?" he asked quietly.
"I'm tired," Frodo admitted, "but not too tired to see all of you." Frodo examined Merry with a critical eye, noting the bruise and gazing again at the bandage on his cousin's arm.
"Don't give me that look, Frodo," Merry chided. "I gave back more than I got, rest assured."
"That he did," Merimac confirmed. "Brawling like the lads along the river, he was. I wonder where he learned such skills, given the fact that such behavior is forbidden at Brandy Hall."
"Lads will be lads, Mac," Saradoc said wryly. "The Brandybuck temper can only be suppressed so far, rules of the Hall notwithstanding." Merry had been caught fighting on only a few occasions, when he had been pushed beyond his considerable endurance. Those who had incurred his wrath seldom did so again.
"Enough about me," Merry said decisively, giving Frodo's knee a pat. "We came to tell you of our plans."
"What plans?" Frodo asked. There was something in Merry's tone that hinted at satisfaction. "Isn't it time we should go back to the Shire? We've been gone so long, and there's the grain - "
"You're not ready to travel yet, and you know it," Merry chided gently. "We'll be here just a little while longer, so we might as well do something useful while we can."
"What are you getting at, Mr. Merry?" Sam regarded Merry quizzically.
"Remember when I told you I had purchased more grain than was needed, and that I had a mind to get back at Bramblethorn?" Merry asked. Sam nodded. "What I had been planning was to sell the extra in the marketplace at a low price and expose Bramblethorn for the scoundrel and cheat that he was. It would have ruined his tidy little arrangement completely."
"That's hardly going to be necessary now, Merry," Frodo said calmly. Bramblethorn had paid the ultimate price for his transgressions, and it would hardly matter if his deeds were made public now.
"True, but Bramblethorn owed a debt to the people of Bree for cheating them," Merry countered. "Those two fellows he hired to do his dirty work confessed their parts in the entire scheme, and we know where the remainder of Bramblethorn's grain is stored. Darien is going to confiscate it and distribute it free to the people in the marketplace, and we're to help him do it!"
There was a hint of pride and excitement in Merry's voice as he spoke, but try as he might, Frodo found that he could not match his cousin's enthusiasm. He was still very tired and his entire body ached. He mustered a small smile and said, "That's a splendid idea, Merry."
Merry noticed Frodo's demeanor and he spoke gently. "I didn't think you would feel up to coming with us, but if you do - "
Frodo shook his head. "No, thank you, Merry. I would only be getting in the way."
Merry's brow creased slightly, but he let the moment pass. It was only natural for Frodo to sound tired and even a little disheartened. He had been through so much, and the shock to his system must be enormous.
"I'll stay here with Mr. Frodo, if you please," Sam volunteered. He absolutely wasn't going to leave Frodo's side for longer than it took to get breakfast from the innkeeper.
"You're predictable as the seasons, Sam," Merry answered. "You're needed most here, it's true." He gave Frodo's knee one last pat and stood. "We'll be back in a few hours, Frodo. You rest easy and let Sam care for you."
"Could I do aught else?" Frodo said, trying to keep his tone light for Merry's benefit. It was a constant effort to keep his thoughts from wandering back to his experiences as Bramblethorn's captive. I mustn't burden them with it, for I've burdened them enough, he thought to himself.
"Off we go, then, on our good errand," Merimac said, grabbing Ned and Saradoc by their arms and hauling them toward the door. "Let's let Frodo rest while we treat the folk of Bree to all the grain they can carry!"
Merry smiled at his uncle's enthusiasm and made for the door, casting a quick glance at Sam. Help him, Sam, Merry's eyes said silently. Don't let him be afraid. Let him know that he's safe.
Sam motioned for Merry to wait. "Before you go, I need to get something for Mr. Frodo's breakfast. Will you stay with him while I go find the innkeeper?"
"Absolutely, Sam," Merry answered, resuming his position at Frodo's side. To the others he said, "I'll meet you by the stables in a few minutes." Ned, Saradoc and Merimac continued on their way to meet Darien.
The worry in Sam's face eased considerably with the knowledge that he wouldn't have to leave Frodo alone. "I'll be back right quick, Mr. Frodo. You just rest a bit."
Frodo nodded and lay back against the pillows as Sam left the room and closed the door softly behind him. Frodo caught himself listening for the sound of a bolt sliding into place, locking him in, but none came.
"Frodo?" Merry queried, having seen the sudden change in Frodo's expression.
Frodo was startled back to his present surroundings by his cousin's voice. "I'm fine, Merry, really," he said dismissively, silently berating himself for allowing Merry to see his discomfiture.
"Are you, Frodo?" Merry pressed gently. "We're all very concerned about you, you know."
"I know you are, and I appreciate all of you so much," Frodo answered honestly. "But you mustn't fret over me, Merry. I'll be all right, really."
Is he trying to convince me, or himself? Merry eyed Frodo critically. It was evident that he had suffered at the hands of Bramblethorn and his bodyguards. It seemed every inch of exposed skin bore at least a hint of bruising. And what of the other effects of his captivity? Merry wondered with dread what, exactly, Frodo had been made to endure. Sam knew at least in part, Merry thought, but there was something about the gardener's demeanor that caused Merry to balk at the thought of inquiring further. It was too soon to expect Frodo to unburden himself regarding such an experience.
"I know you will," Merry answered simply. "Sam must be influencing me. I'm starting to sound like him, aren't I?"
Frodo gave Merry's hand a light squeeze. "You've always been there for me Merry, even when we were much younger. Sam was not the first to hover over me like a mother hen, you know."
"Can't help it," Merry said with a grin. "It's a tough job, but someone has to do it."
Frodo's demeanor became serious. "Merry, I have to tell you - "
Merry shook his head. "No, Frodo, you don't have to do or say anything."
"Listen to me Merry, please," Frodo continued, capturing his cousin's gaze with his own. "The failure of the harvest," he said rather haltingly, "it was his fault. Bramblethorn - "
Merry stared at Frodo. "What? Frodo, what are you saying?"
"Bramblethorn ruined the harvest in Buckland," Frodo explained. "He came across the weed here, in Bree. He sent Monto and Anson to sow the seeds in Buckland's fields."
Merry's expression darkened. "So that's how it got there," he muttered. "But why, Frodo? Why would he do such a thing?"
"Revenge," Frodo said quietly. "And for his own gain. He knew that you would have to seek outside the Shire for help. With his control over the supply of grain in Bree - "
"Ah," Merry replied, nodding. "I see now. He was counting on us having to come here." As if suddenly realizing what his words meant, Merry hastily glanced at Frodo and continued, "But he couldn't have known you'd - "
"No, Merry. He could not have known you, Sam and I would come together. It's not your fault. You mustn't blame yourself."
The door opened again and Sam returned with a tray laden with bread, fruit and a steaming bowl of broth. "Thank you, Mr. Merry. Mr. Frodo's breakfast is ready."
"You eat and rest," Merry commanded as he rose from the bed. He was glad of the interruption at that point. "We're going to the market now, so I'll see you when we get back." He waved at Sam as he left the room.
"If you wanted to go with them, you could have, Sam," Frodo said as he stirred the broth. "I'm sure I would be safe here."
Sam shook his head. "A crowded marketplace doesn't sound appealing to me, if you understand. I'd much rather stay here with you, Mr. Frodo."
"As you like, Sam," Frodo answered. He tasted the broth and smiled. "This is just what I need. Thank you."
"If you want more the innkeeper said just to ask," Sam replied. "He's a nice man, Mr. Frodo. He was a little put out with me and Mr. Merry for leavin' unexpected to go to Buckland, but he ain't upset about it now."
"I'm sorry there's been so much trouble on my account," Frodo said softly. "You and Merry have endured so much, and all of Brandy Hall must be in a terrible uproar - "
"Now don't you worry none about Brandy Hall, Mr. Frodo," Sam said with a frown. "You've done a great deal to help the folks there, and they'll find no fault with you."
Frodo didn't answer. Instead, he took another spoonful of the broth.
Unable to think of any more to say at the moment, Sam set about tidying up the room. What should he say at a time like this? He certainly didn't want to bring up anything that might cause Frodo distress, but it also seemed like idle Shire gossip wasn't quite appropriate either. If I ask him how he's feelin' again, he'll probably tell me to mind my place and let him be, Sam thought sadly.
Something like a contented sigh brought Sam out of his reverie a few minutes later. Frodo had finished the broth and a little bread and fruit. "I think I'll try to sleep for a while, Sam," he said as he leaned back.
"If you need anything I'll be here," Sam promised as he took the tray and placed it on the table nearby. He fluffed up the pillows and tucked the blankets snugly around Frodo again. Before long, Frodo was sleeping peacefully and Sam took up his place in the chair nearby.
~*~
"So this is it, then?" Merry asked, gazing at the large wooden barn on the outskirts of the village.
"Yes, or so the two we have in custody said," Darien answered, referring to Monto and Anson's confessions. "Inside there should be a supply of grain fit to feed the whole of Bree for months and then some."
There was only one problem. The door was held shut by a heavy metal lock that looked as if it could defy any attempt to open it by force.
"Where did he get this?" Merry asked, fingering the lock. "It looks almost like it's of Dwarf make."
"It could be," Darien answered. By now Ned, Saradoc and Merimac had leapt out of the wagon and gathered around to peer at the thing that barred their entrance to the building.
"Well, whoever made it, we must find a way over, under or through it," Merimac remarked helpfully.
"The key," Saradoc said, considering. "Did you find the key when you - " he broke off, trying to find a way to phrase the question. "Bramblethorn didn't happen to have it with him when he - "
"We found no key," Darien said with a shake of his head.
"There must be one, back at his smial someplace," Merry surmised. He fixed Darien with a sharp gaze. "Did they tell you where he lived?"
"As a matter of fact, they did," Darien said. "It would be a shame to damage the doors of this building unnecessarily. Perhaps we should look for the key there before we resort to such actions."
Merry thought for a moment, then nodded. The idea of going near Bramblethorn's smial was repellent in and of itself, but if it made their entrance easier, he was willing. Besides, who knew what else they might learn in the bargain? Perhaps Bramblethorn had been up to more than what had already come to light.
"All right, let's go. Let's see if we can find the key." Merry turned and began to walk back toward the wagon. Saradoc looked from Darien to his son's retreating form and nodded. It might be unpleasant, visiting the place of Frodo's imprisonment, but there was good reason. The idea of merely breaking into the structure was abandoned for the moment as Darien and the hobbits prepared to make their way to Bramblethorn's smial.
~*~
"Are you sure this is it?" Merry asked as he looked around. There were a number of large smials in the hills above the village. He and Sam had been blindfolded when they had been brought to Bramblethorn's lair to hear the terrible ultimatum he had given them.
"Those two fellows told all," Darien said, surveying the property. "They were hoping to lighten their own punishments by cooperating. In doing so, they've given us much information."
Merimac tried the door. It was locked and refused to budge. "Did anyone happen to find the key to this?" he asked.
"No, but perhaps there's an open window," Darien said thoughtfully. The hobbits were small enough that one of them might be able to get inside by such means and open the door for the rest of them.
The entire company circled the dwelling, looking for any easy access to the inside. Soon, Merry called out, "Here! This one isn't locked!" He peered in the round window carefully. "Someone give me a boost!"
Saradoc and Merimac laced their fingers together to give Merry a lift up to the window. Merry pushed for all he was worth, and the window swung in, causing him to fall through the open portal into the room beyond.
Merry brushed himself off as he rose to his feet. He was inside Bramblethorn's smial again, this time in a room he had never seen before. A bedroom. Merry glanced around apprehensively. Breaking and entering was not something he was at all accustomed to, and the very knowledge of who this property had belonged to was unnerving.
Suddenly Merry felt the urge to get out of the room as soon as possible. There was something about the thought of standing in Bramblethorn's bedroom that bothered him immensely. Had Frodo been forced into this room, he wondered? Best not to think of that now. "Give me a moment to find the door and open it," he called out the window to the others.
After a few wrong turns down one corridor or another, Merry found the front door and opened it with a sweeping gesture. "Greetings," he announced, "the way is open."
The rest of the searchers entered the smial, the hobbits comfortably and Darien less so, having to duck to keep from knocking his head against the beams across the ceiling.
"Now if I were a mad, egotistical hobbit, where would I keep the key to a shed full of grain?" Merimac asked, looking around curiously.
Merry ignored the comment and began to wander down the nearest hallway. He peered into the first room he came to and a look of recognition crossed his face. "I've been here," he remarked. "This is Bramblethorn's study. This is where he made his demands for the ransom and payment for the grain."
"As likely a place to search as any," Saradoc said as he appraised the room.
The group fanned out and everyone began to search through drawers and nooks. Merry stood looking down at the writing desk and absently flipped open the cover of a book that lay upon it. The cover was a richly - dyed blue leather, almost the color of Frodo's eyes, he realized. His eyes fell upon the writing on the page and he realized what it was he beheld - Bramblethorn's diary!
There was something disconcerting about the idea of looking at such a thing on general principals, he realized, but he couldn't help himself. Glancing furtively around at the other occupants of the room who were absorbed elsewhere, he picked up the book and tucked it inside his weskit.
"Ah! I may have found it," Darien exclaimed, and Merry whirled around to see the tall man holding up a brass ring with a selection of keys hanging from it. "There's at least some chance the key we seek may be one of these," he surmised. The search continued for a short while longer as the other rooms were inspected. No other keys were found, and the group left the dwelling as they had found it, but for the absence of the small leather - bound volume Merry had hidden from the others.
~*~
The lock clicked open with satisfying ease. The key Darien and the hobbits had sought had indeed been one of those hanging on the brass ring. As the doors swung open, the afternoon sunlight streamed into the wooden building, illuminating many sacks of grain, stacked one atop the other.
"Will you look at that," Saradoc said, his gaze roving around the room.
"It seems the deceased did indeed hold much of the grain in the nearby environs," Darien agreed. "He will not need it now, and the folk of Bree certainly shall. Fellows, our errand awaits us."
With that the hobbits formed a line and began to hand the sacks along to one another. They loaded the wagon as full as they could manage and locked the door behind them. There was still plenty of grain left, and it looked like the better part of the day would be spent in its distribution.
~*~
Curious looks met the four hobbits and the man as they rolled into the marketplace in a large wagon laden with sacks of grain. Merry and Ned jumped out and settled the horses while Darien stood atop the sacks and called for the attention of the crowd that was gathering.
"People of Bree," he began in a loud, clear tone, "hear me! For months you have paid a great cost for your bread, when it could be found at all."
Nods of assent came from the crowd.
"You may have been led to believe that grain was in short supply in Bree, and that the price of such a scarce commodity was justified." Darien gestured to the sacks around him. "But I tell you that grain is not hard to come by in Bree, or at least it shall not be any longer."
Gasps rose from the people who had gathered around the wagon. "Look, he's got a wagon full of it!" someone exclaimed. "Where did it come from?"
"You were deceived by Rushford Bramblethorn, a resident of Breehill," Darien explained. "He gained control of the supply of grain in and about Bree and he sold it to you at a premium."
"He was hoardin' it!" A man gasped indignantly, and murmurs rose from the people near him.
"Yes, good sir, he was," Darien confirmed. "But now his scheme is exposed and his debt to the people of Bree is to be paid in full. You will all receive a share of the grain you see here, free of charge."
A cheer erupted from the growing crowd as Saradoc and Merimac helped lower the back of the wagon to make the grain accessible. As thrilled as the people were, they maintained a semblance of order as the sacks were parceled out. There was no pushing and shoving, just jubilation as sack after sack of grain was placed in their waiting hands. Several people asked the fate of the hobbit who had cheated them, and Darien quietly replied that Bramblethorn had been killed while attempting to escape capture.
The unloading continued until the wagon was empty. The people were still coming, and Darien told them to wait for the next load. They had yet to completely empty Bramblethorn's storehouse of its contents, but they surely would by the time the afternoon came to a close.
To and fro from the market to Bramblethorn's granary the wagon went during the afternoon, until everyone who had answered Darien's summons had received his share of the grain. Darien shook the hand of each of the hobbits and congratulated them on a job well done.
~*~To be continued~*~