Frodo could not believe his eyes, as he stared out the window and looked down into the courtyard. The garrison of Rohan soldiers had arrived and among them was the King of Rohan, Eomer.

Nearly fourteen years had passed since he last saw Eomer and he hadn't changed all that much. A little more whiteness in his hair and kingly clothes, but otherwise he was unchanged. Hearing the trumpets and realizing who was coming, Frodo had fretfully tried to figure out what he was going to say or do when he saw Eomer again after so many years. He knew he was being foolish and Frodo wished Sam was here.

He had gone to Ithilien earlier that morning to continue to help Legolas and Gimli with fixing the new homestead that would eventually become a home for Frodo and Sam's entire family. Frodo still had mixed emotions about the homestead. He was fearful that the children, accustomed to living in Bag End, would resent the move. Sam insisted that all would be well. Still, Frodo couldn't shake the guilt.

It had been nearly two months since Merry and Pippin had headed for home. They hadn't heard any word yet but Frodo was sure they would any day now. In the years following the War, Aragorn had established a better letter system. He had even hired special couriers who's duty was to receive and send letters to certain areas all over Middle- Earth. It was intriguing and Frodo hoped, in the near future, to look into this new system. It sounded quite fascinating.

The young hobbit let out a sad sigh and thought of Sam, wishing with all his heart he was here with him, to hold back the memories. It seemed so long ago, but Frodo still remembered the raw attraction he felt for the newly made King of Rohan.

They had shared one very intimate kiss, under an apple tree, which left Frodo wanting for more. Yet, at the time, more was just not possible. His health forbid it, and besides, their was Sam. Eomer understood and they parted ways. Frodo never saw him again and now, fourteen years later, he had heard Eomer was married and had a daughter.

Feeling his arm hairs stand on end, Frodo looked down to see he was being watched by none other than Eomer. Their eyes connected, Frodo blinked and then Eomer had disappeared into the citadel. Frodo wondered how long it would be before Eomer would find his way to his quarters. To Frodo's surprise, Eomer never came.

Sam returned late that evening and together they had a quiet dinner. Afterwards they sat out on the balcony and held each other close, counting the stars in the heavens. It was the most beautiful and peaceful of nights.

With his fingers entwined with Sam's, Frodo couldn't help but still feel curious about the mysterious rings given to them by Lady Galadriel and Lord Elrond. If it hadn't been these rings, Sam would never have found him in time and rescued him from a fate of slavery with the now deceased Emissary, Prince Cerebus. Curious indeed, Frodo had asked Arwen about them, but other then the fact that they were elven made, she could not help him in unlocking the secrets contained within the rings.

A thought occurred to him and Frodo knew he would send a letter to Lord Celeborn, who still resided in Lothlorien. He was still in Middle- Earth, choosing to stay for a time before joining his wife in the West. It seemed, like his grandchildren, Celeborn was having difficulty leaving the lands he had come to call home. Perhaps he could help unlock the ring's secrets.

As the air grew cold, Sam had called it a night and, going to their beds, Sam made sweet and gentle love to him. Every touch, every kiss, reminded Frodo why he returned to Middle-Earth. Sam, my Sam. It seemed every day his love for Sam grew stronger. He was truly content now. He had everything now.

Later that night, Frodo awoke to the pangs of hunger. Seeing Sam in a deep sleep, Frodo found he could not bring himself to awaken Sam as he seemed to do nearly every night to have him retrieve him some carrots, or some of that special cheese with the holes in them. After being awoken three nights in a row, Sam now left extra bits of food in the chambers, just in case.

However looking out from his side of the bed, Frodo saw the crates and baskets on a nearby table and realized he was out of pickled eggs and for some reason his body was just screaming for them. Frodo reached over to the night table and taking up a candle, got up as carefully as he could out of the bed, so as not to waken Sam. Putting on a robe and making sure Sam was still asleep, Frodo made for the kitchen, or rather, waddled.

His stomach was expanding now at his fifth month of pregnancy, and Frodo found a lot of his clothes had become confining. Arwen and several of her ladies had begun sowing him bigger clothes and taking out seams on certain pants. It was a bit disconcerting and Frodo would often look at the mirror and stare at his growing body. To Frodo, he felt like a walking butterball. Everyone, of course, was informing him he looked as radiant and as beautiful as ever. One glance at the mirror and Frodo knew they were a bunch of lying jackasses.

***

Having no trouble finding the kitchens, and thankful that the fits of morning sickness was over, Frodo quickly made a beeline to where the pickled eggs would be found. Once he had them on the nearby kitchen table, Frodo found he now wanted some of that special cheese, and perhaps... yes ,there it is, that really weird cake brought from the East. Banana bread they called it. Oh, this would all hit the spot nicely.

A soft meow got his attention and Frodo smiled to see the kitchens stray cat had awoken. He was sleeping on the nearby fire place, finding a comforting spot on the still warm bricks. He had no name as far as Frodo knew, but he had always loved animals, especially cats and now gave the hungry animal several long strokes of his fur. He was an older cat, and was black and white and was often seen chasing after a mouse. The cat seemed most happy to be getting some attention and sought an added bonus.

Another meow, a bit louder and with pleading gray eyes, made certain to show Frodo that he was looking for a snack too. Frodo quickly found some cream in the pantry and getting a saucer, put some cream into it and put it on the ground for him. The cat seemed to give Frodo one long look and then with a soft meow, as if to say thank you, set to licking the cream.

Before long, Frodo was happily munching away at the table, his feet dangling off the chair idly watching the stray cat have his fill of cream. That was how Eomer found him. “Frodo, it is you. You have returned? I thought my eyes deceived me.”

Looking up, Frodo swallowed down the last of the pickled eggs and made to take up a napkin. The cat ignored the man, intent on polishing off the cream. Frodo had known this moment would come, but he had hoped it wouldn't be for another day or too. When he was dressed and felt more confident. This had not been his place of choice to be seeing Eomer again.

Eomer had come to see his new niece, so Frodo had been sure Eomer's time would have been taken up for a little while. He had been wrong. Upon hearing the news, Eomer at the soonest opportunity had sought him out. The hobbit had hoped to prepare himself for this event. That too had not come to pass for he was not prepared at all.

The hobbit’s cheeks reddened. He must look quite a sight, sitting here, fat, stuffing his face and smelling like pickled eggs and cheese. Oh yes, a fetching sight indeed.

Eomer smiled at the sight before him. Frodo Baggins looked beautiful, more beautiful then he had remembered. Piercing sapphire eyes, skin as soft looking as silk and a face that would melt the most hardened of hearts.

Fourteen years had passed between them, Frodo was now staring up into the piercing dark brown eyes and felt himself melt. He was older but no less attractive. Feeling now quite full from his midnight snack, Frodo remained in the chair and clasping his hands together, smiled up at Eomer. Well, best make the most of the situation.

“Hello your majesty. It is so good to see you again after all these years. You look wonderful.”

For a second the world seemed to tilt and then just like that it was over. Eomer seemed to recover and took a seat facing Frodo. After a moment, he reached out his hand. Frodo gingerly took it.

“I received a letter from Eowyn and Faramir and they told me you had come back. I did not believe it was so. They also told me you are-- with child?”

Frodo grinned and nodded.

Eomer at once smiled back at the hobbit. “You look different. Younger, as if the years have fallen away from you?”

Taking up a slice of banana bread, Frodo offered it to the horse King. “I have been healed in the blessed realm.”

“And you came back. For your gardener, Samwise, isn't it?”

The hobbit nodded, but added, “And for all those that I loved and missed. Aragorn, Legolas--everyone.” Frodo meant to add, “and you,” but at the last minute Frodo faltered and kept his tongue.

Eomer took the bread Frodo offered, but put it aside. After a long lull of silence, Eomer again spoke. “I have married and had a daughter as well. She is my entire world. I wish you could see her. She loves to hear about Frodo and the dark lord's ring. She just turned seven.”

“I am so glad for you.” It was all Frodo could think to say.

It was only then that Eomer's eyes darkened, more of sadness than anger. “There would have been a time I would have traded everything for you instead. But it was not my love you sought so many years ago.”

Frodo swallowed and tried to speak, but Eomer had already released Frodo's hand and had gotten to his feet. “I am glad you have found happiness and healing, Frodo Baggins. I delight in your joy of the coming child you carry. Whenever you come to Rohan, know you will always be welcome.”

Eomer made to leave, but Frodo somehow managed to get to his feet and raced to Eomer's side. Frodo reached out and took Eomer's hand again.

“Forgive me, Eomer. I should not have played with your heart. I am sorry.”

The horse King turned and then kneeled down to Frodo. His arms tenderly wrapped around the hobbit and hugged him.

“There is nothing to forgive, my dearest Frodo. You did not play with my heart. I gave it willingly and you could not take it. You were not well. I knew that and you loved another. That too, I understood and accepted. We each made our own way and chose our own paths. I have chosen mine. I will not surrender what I have now. I love my daughter dearly, I will not deny that it took time, but I did heal as you did and found love again. All is at it should be. Seeing you again, confirms that.” He then whispered in Frodo’s ear. “You will always have a special place in my heart dear one. Always.”

They stared at each other for a long moment and Eomer gave Frodo a soft kiss on his cheek. Then Eomer rose, and with a slight bow, headed out the door and into the darkness of the corridor.

Frodo remained where he was, staring after the form of Eomer even after it was long gone. Then, with a sigh, Frodo cleaned up his mess and made his way back to his own chambers with a heavy heart.

Getting back into bed, Frodo was just turning over, to adjust his pillows, when two arms and a warm body wrapped itself around him. A soft whisper came from Sam's lips, calling his lover's name and Frodo clung back to his Sam and smiled. His heart lightened at once. Yes, all was as it should be.

***

Eomer King remained in Minas Tirith for two weeks and then returned to his kingdom, bidding his beloved sister and friends a fond farewell near the white tree. Frodo did not bid him a personal farewell in the courtyard. Instead, he remained standing on the balcony in his chambers, watching as the Horse Lord and his men prepared to leave.

A tear came to Frodo's eye, as he gave one last thought to the gentle Horse Lord who had been so kind to him years ago, and waved goodbye. “Be well, Eomer,” Frodo thought and prayed. “Be well and happy.”

Eomer started to his horse for the gates but then, he turned his head and looked up. He saw the small figure standing on the balcony, waving. The horse King smiled, and waved back.

Frodo put down the quill and stretched out his back. He ached all over, especially in the region of his lower back today. Sam had given him a delightful massage, before heading back to Ithilien to continue to oversee the makings of the new smial.

A part of Frodo was envious. Now nearing his six month of pregnancy, Aragorn had put his foot down refusing to allow Frodo to leave the white city. In fact, he was not to leave the citadel. A little put out with those orders, Frodo knew he had done this as a safety precaution.

Frodo did not forget his own terror as he headed down a flight of stairs intending to visit Eowyn's sons in the courtyard. They had seen Frodo standing by a window and had beckoned 'Uncle Frodo' to come down and tell them a story.

Bored with staying in his room and no longer in the mood to finish his baby quilt, Frodo had gathered his things and made his way down to the courtyard. Frodo hadn't seen the loose stone, on the third to the last step, and down he went with a cry.

The children had been frightened and quickly ran for Aragorn and their father. A full exam showed that, other than a sprained ankle, Frodo and the baby were both fine. However, that moment of fear had left quite an impression in his mind and though Frodo wanted to argue with Aragorn that he was still fit enough to wander a bit through the city, he had relented and agreed to stay put.

Frodo did however manage to read to the boys and tell them several delightful stories about Bilbo before Sam returned from his trip and received another tongue lashing about him being more careful. With the baby quilt now completed, Frodo now turned his attention to sending a letter to Lord Celeborn.

The hobbit was still interested in finding out just how magical these rings were from Galadriel and Elrond. He was certain, unlike the Dark Lords ring, these were not very powerful. But they did have a magic in them and Frodo was determined to unlock their secrets.

Picking up the quill, Frodo finished drawing what the rings looked like, including the color of the stones and the mysterious runes that were initialed all around the steel band. Two red drops fell on the paper and with a start Frodo dropped the quill, his hand reaching for his nose. Two more red drops fell.

Reaching for a handkerchief, Frodo heard the door open and a soft cry. Moments later, Frodo felt a white napkin put to his nostrils and pinched the nose closed. “Breathe through your mouth, Frodo. That's it. Easy. It will stop bleeding in a few minutes.”

Frodo gratefully looked up into the eyes of Eowyn. She was doing well now and was often seen in the nursery with her baby and the queen with her children. Ever since his return, life in the citadel seemed to be brighter, though Frodo knew better than to think that he was the cause of it.

“Thank you!” Frodo replied and waited for the warm rush in his nose to cease, as the pressure was applied.

As Eowyn confirmed the bleeding stopped within minutes.

“Aragorn mentioned that this may happen.”

“When I was pregnant with Boromir, I had nosebleeds almost daily.”

Frodo blanched, hoping that wasn't to be his fate with this pregnancy. Looking at the blood stained handkerchief, Frodo felt guilty to see it was the lace handkerchief given to her by Faramir on their wedding betrothal.

“Oh, my lady, I have ruined your napkin.”

Eowyn only smiled. “It can be cleaned and, if not, replaced.”

Shaking his head, Frodo looked at Eowyn. “But it was a gift from Faramir on your betrothal years ago.”

Surprised and delighted that he remembered, Eowyn laughed. “And therefore Faramir can give me a new gift on our anniversary. Do not worry so, Frodo. This is an object. Replaceable. People, human beings and hobbits are not.”

Looking to her left, Eowyn walked over to the bed and picked up a long quilt. Her eyes looked on at it in delight. It had royal blue and purple colors as well as lovely designs embroidered on each of the patches. Lilacs, roses, daisies, and even a sun flower. It was beautiful.

“Oh, Frodo. It is--incredible. You did a beautiful job. Your baby will love this.”

Frodo nodded with a most satisfied look on his face. “When I was young, my mother crafted me something very similar. I tried to recreate it.”

Eowyn turned to Frodo questioningly. ‘Was?’

“I had it until I was 12 years old. Then my parents died and I was sent to Brandyhall. My Uncle Saradoc thought I was too old to be having a comfort blanket. He gave it to one of my cousins. I never saw it again.”

“I am sorry,” Eowyn replied. “He shouldn't have done that. It was made by your mother and he should have let you keep it.”

Frodo felt his eyes mist slightly as he remembered his mother, what he could remember of her. “Many of my mother's things were taken after her death. Uncle Bilbo, did his best to get some of them back for me, but most of them were lost. I believe my Aunt Lobelia took most of her things. She denied it of course, but...”

“Lobelia? The dreadful Sackville-Baggins?”

Grinning, but still with a bit of sadness in his eyes, Frodo nodded. “Lobelia and my mother were rivals. I am not certain of the reason. I think my aunt Esmeralda, Merry's mother, said that at one time, she had her eyes set on my father, Drogo. When my mother captured his heart, I think she never got over it. She eventually married Otho.”

“She took her anger out on you?”

Frodo shrugged it no longer mattered, “She was unhappy, a very unhappy woman. Sam told me she passed three winters ago. She was never the same after losing her son. I hold nothing against her and forgave her long ago. We each have our own darkness and she had hers.”

“You are very kind, Frodo. Some would hold much against her and her son.”

The hobbit only shrugged at the Lady. “It is not my place to judge o-- ”

Frodo stopped. His face startled and then he smiled. Eowyn drew close in curiosity and then laughed when she realized what had happened.

“Has the babe been kicking often?”

“Almost daily. It still takes me by surprise to feel a life inside of me, but it also reassures me that she or he is well.”

Frodo paused and glanced at Eowyn. “Do you think you will have more children with Faramir?”

“If it is fate's will. But if not, I will be content with the three I have. My only concern was that Boromir, would not be an only child. I wanted him to have siblings. Someone to care for and play with--” She paused and then glanced at Frodo to see a bit of melancholy come to his eyes. “I'm sorry.” She had forgotten Frodo had been an only child.

“My parents tried to have more children. They miscarried three times before me and three times more after I was born. The healers asked Drogo to stop trying and to be content with just me. I would have loved everyone of them. Well, I have many cousins and soon... I shall have this one to care for.”

“You must have been very lonely, Frodo...”

Frodo returned to his letter and glanced at it. It was complete, so he rolled it and sealing it in place and tying it with string, Frodo turned to Lady Eowyn. “I was. I always felt like I didn't belong. I won't say I was unloved in Brandyhall, but I was lonely. Bilbo saw that loneliness and then one day--he said, 'Come, Frodo my lad. Move in with me. Let us share our birthday's together from now on in the peace and comfort of Bag End.' And truly, my lady, even knowing the fate that was set by doing so, I have no regrets living those years with Bilbo. Living with him brought happiness once more into my life. I miss him.”

He then offered the scroll to Eowyn. “Will you take this to Faramir and ask him if he could have this letter sent to Lothlorien. I wish to ask Lord Celeborn about these rings.”

He showed Eowyn the ring and she nodded and made for the door. “I will. Will you join me for tea later?”

Frodo grinned. “I would dare not say no to such a lovely offer from such a beautiful lady.”

***

He did indeed join Eowyn for tea and was not surprised to see Arwen there as well as the Mid-wife and several ladies from the court. They all sat together and enjoyed not only the tea, but also some cakes and pastries from the cook, Baradain. It was a happy time set aside to relax and talk about trivial matters.

What did surprise Frodo however was after the serving of tea, the arrival of boxes and boxes of wrapped gifts.

“What is this?” Frodo asked as servants continually brought in small and medium sized boxes and laid them on a long table.

“This, Frodo, is your baby shower.”

Frodo looked at Arwen in surprise. “My what?”

“Baby shower. It is often given to those who are expecting. Sometimes they are given early, or later when it is near the time. It is, in a way, to show the newborn that he or she is welcomed.”

Frodo turned to the piling table and blanched as even more presents were brought into the room and were now being placed on the floor. “These are not all for me? Are they?”

Arwen and Eowyn giggled and confirmed it. “Yes, these are gifts that have been coming into the citadel for the past month. We have had quite a time trying to find a place to hide them so you wouldn't see them.”

Frodo shook his head in bewilderment. “But who?”

“Just about everyone you can think of.” Arwen moved to Frodo and gently touched his shoulders. Eyes misting, Frodo looked up at Arwen in surprise. “The Dwarves from the glittering caves, the Dwarves of Lonely mountain. Do you not think word has spread that the Ringbearer has returned and with child? There are also gifts from Eomer and his wife. Prince Imrahil, the elves in Mirkwood forest. King Thranduril especially sends his best wishes with two barrels of his best wine.”

Frodo laughed at that, knowing the joke Bilbo told years ago of riding the dwarves in those barrels to escape the elves and continue to the lonely mountain.

“There are also gifts from Ambassadors, Princes and Kings from far away lands, as well as the delegates and councilors of the citadel here. Not including the citizens in the city and the nearby villages. And not including your dearest of friends who also wished to give you personal gifts.”

Turning to his left, Frodo saw Legolas, Gimli, Faramir and Aragorn coming into the room with gifts also in there own hands. Frodo was most overcome. Escorted to a prized seat already set out before him, Frodo could only sit back and slowly begin to open each gift.

***

It was well after sunset, and with presents still unwrapped, Frodo had called it a day and promised to open the rest later in the week. Returning to his room, Frodo saw that Sam was waiting for him, with a hot meal that was ready to be eaten.

“I do not know where we will put it all,” Frodo laughed as he finished his third bread roll and moved on to the roast beef and mashed tators. “Oh, this is so good, Sam. This is really hitting the spot. Be sure to thank Baradain, the chief cook for making this for us.”

“I will. No need to worry none, Frodo love. Most of those things we will be able to use for the smial and the rest we can always give to some of the orphans in Ithilien.”

Sam's voice was subdued and seemed smaller than usual. Frodo chalked it up as it being a long day for Sam. He had been working so hard to get the Smial done in time for the baby's birth. Frodo knew he would have to insist Sam stay here tomorrow and rest. Helping him open the rest of the presents should keep him occupied.

“Did I tell you Aragorn and Gimli made a lovely crib for our baby. It is so beautiful, Sam. It is made of white pine and has both elvish and dwarf runes all around the sides. And the handles are crafted in all different types of fruits. Tomorrow, I'll take you the storage room and show you.”

Sam seemed to cringe a little, but then finally relented, and started to pick at his meal. It seemed only then that Frodo realized Sam wasn't acting his usual self. His lover was more than tired tonight. Sam seemed troubled about something.

“Sam--what is the matter? Is something wrong?”

Sam shook his head. “Nothing. Nothing is wrong. What makes you think that?” He pushed a whole roll into his mouth.

Putting down his fork, Frodo raised an eyebrow. “Sam?”

Sam swallowed his roll and picking up his fork, he began to play with the food on his plate.

“What's the matter? Is something wrong with the Smial?”

“No, love. Everything is coming along nicely. All on schedule.”

“Then what is it?” Frodo asked.

Sam, paused and finally looked at Frodo. Sam closed his eyes. He hadn't been feeling well ever since he entered the citadel. Not since it had happened. He had meant to keep it secret but, now... he wasn't sure how Frodo was going to react. He hadn't even talked to Aragorn about it.

“Sam? Tell me.”

Seeing the fright in Frodo's eyes, Sam took the paper out and handed it over. The paper had been crumbled and looked to be on some old brown paper. Frodo smoothed it out and read the words on the paper. Frodo suddenly felt sick and ran for the privy.

“Frodo!”

Laying Frodo down on the bed after cleaning him up, Sam cursed himself over and over again for not throwing the letter away.

“Oh, me dear. If I had known how it would upset you, I would never have shown it to you.”

Frodo only stared at Sam with haunted eyes. “Did you tell Aragorn?”

“Not yet, but I will in the morning.”

Shivering, Frodo pulled Sam into his arms and felt tears stinging his eyes. “Oh Sam, who would have written that awful letter?”

“I don't know. Legolas saw it first before I reached the hill. He took it down and gave it to me. He doesn't recognize the handwriting at all. But I am sure Aragorn will get to the bottom of this. Please, love, don't worry.”

Frodo turned away and clutched at his stomach. “I can't believe anyone could be so cruel. So vile.”

It took a long time that night for Frodo to get to sleep. The next morning, Sam brought the paper to Aragorn and handed it over to read. As Aragorn reach the note his eyes filled with growing horror and disgust.

Aragorn re-read the letter and then ordered Faramir to look into the matter and to find the perpetrator who wrote such an evil letter. Faramir enlisted the aide of Legolas and Gimli, who posted themselves almost night and day outside the smial in the hopes of catching this man. But as days passed into weeks, it soon became obvious that the person responsible had vanished as he had come.

For Frodo and Sam, the threatening letter bothered them for awhile, but also as time passed, they chalked up the threat as a nasty prank and nothing more. In the meantime, Frodo continued to prepare for the coming of his child.

More presents arrived at the citadel and Sam often accompanied Frodo to the great hall, where Frodo opened the new gifts with relish. At night, in each other's arms, Frodo and Sam would recount their fortune and the beautiful gifts they had been given.

“Oh Sam, did you see that tapestry from Eowyn and Faramir? Wasn't it beautiful?”

Sam laughed and, moving closer to his lover, placed a hand on Frodo's abdomen where their baby was currently doing a little kicking, keeping Frodo wide awake. “A scene of a garden is always beautiful to me, Frodo-love.”

Frodo grinned and added his own hand to his abdomen. “It seems our baby is quite awake tonight.”

Sam smiled and pointed his finger at Frodo's stomach. “Hey you, you're keeping your parents awake. Enough of that.”

As if he or she heard, the kicking started to die down. Frodo couldn't resist talking more about the presents.

“Legolas made me something he called 'wind chimes'. It has such delicate strings with these steel rods at the bottom and when it blows in the wind, it makes the softest sounds. I am sure it will often lull our baby into a deep sleep. And I can't get over that gift from the councilor Rhahous, a whole box of carved wooden animals. Oh and the Mid-wife, you know the one--her name escapes me, she gave me a set of beautiful glass lamps with matching candlesticks.”

“Tomorrow I'll start taking some of them down to the smial.”

Frodo looked sadly away and Sam cupped Frodo's chin with his fingers to bring him back. “What is it? Surely not about that letter again? I really do think who ever wrote that meant it only as a cruel threat but nothing else. We should move on from this, Frodo, me dear. One man out of thousands should not be allowed to disrupt our happiness. Your happiness.”

Frodo grinned and shook his head before adding a soft kiss on Sam's very luscious lips. “No, my dear Sam. I was just wishing I was strong enough to go down with you so I can help with the nursery. I really wish I could see how it is all coming along.”

Sam now chuckled lightly, understanding Frodo's frustration completely. It was one of the reasons why he went to Ithilien daily. He trusted Legolas and Gimli in finishing up the smial proper like, but he himself wanted to make sure the paintings and the furniture were placed just as Frodo and he desired. It had to be perfect.

“I know. But don't you worry none, you will see it soon.”

“What about those farm animals, Sam? What ever are we to do with those?”

It had taken them both by surprise to find that some of the citizens and nearby farmers of the citadel had not only sent objects and furniture to the expecting couple but animals as well. Several rabbits, a few chickens, four cows and a few pigs.

“Faramir has already built a small barn near the pond. It will set in nicely and we can put most of the stock near or around it. Don't you worry, Frodo. It is going to be ideal.”

“With you overseeing everything, I know it will.”

***

The following day, Sam had headed back to Ithilien with Faramir, leaving Frodo in the company of Arwen and Eowyn who continued to help Frodo unwrap more gifts. Though most of the ladies in waiting were present as before, Frodo was sad to see the Mid-wife was not present. She had been called away for another lady had gone into labor. He had so wanted to thank her again for the lovely gift she had given to him.

As the hours past, it seemed to Frodo that the gifts were growing and not dwindling. The first present Frodo unwrapped had brought him to near tears. Before him were a pair of two cherry wood crafted rockers, built to his and Sam's height.

Upon sitting down on it, Frodo felt overcome. It fit his form perfectly . It would be the most wonderful setting to place these in front of a fire place and hold his baby. Frodo was sure to thank the third level carpenter for such a glorious gift.

The second gift was given to him by Eomer and his wife. Upon unraveling it, Frodo found he had been graced with what looked to be a wooden horse, which when pushed slightly rocked back and forth. Frodo was quickly informed that this was a standard toy given to all Rohan children when small. It was called just as it was created for. A rocking horse.

The third gift was sent by an artist in the second level. Two drawings painted with a very graceful hand. The first painting was of a lake and two towering mountains and the other was a picture of a wheat field and beyond it, rolling hills.

“They will be perfect in the family room.”

Reaching for the fourth gift, Frodo eagerly looked at the tag. Chief cook to the King, Baradain. Unable to resist a smile, Frodo opened the package hastily wondering what the fantastic cook had gifted him. It was quite a shock to everyone when Frodo threw the gift to the ground, leaping to his feet with a horrified cry. Arwen gasped taking Frodo quickly and protectively in her arms, while Eowyn looked puzzled at the open box. Her face changed to anger at what she saw. Inside lay a dead rat.

***

It was made apparent by Faramir, and the cook, that someone had switched the intended gift. Baradain’s gift (A lovely bouquet of mushrooms and several cans of home made honey) was replaced by the same one that had written that evil letter. The handwriting was unmistakable. The cooks real gift was soon found hidden in a nearby closet.

Frodo had known all along that Baradain would never have done such a thing. He had known the cook since his arrival. The man was not just a good cook, but a very loving and kind man who had come to cherish the Periannaths. It was he that had personally overseen the supplies of extra food placed in Frodo's chambers, so he wouldn't have to run to the kitchen every night.

Aragorn was now growing worried. The letter had been from outside of the citadel and he had assumed that whoever had done it was someone in Ithilien. Now, the one behind that letter appeared to be within the city, even perhaps in the citadel itself. That made Aragorn very uneasy.

In the middle of a council meeting, Aragorn was heard muttering angrily to all around him. “If I find anyone in this citadel or my city responsible for this, I promise you he will be dealt with harshly and I say also, if the person who is doing this lays one finger upon Frodo Baggins, their life will be forfeit.”

The anger of the King was felt throughout the city as well as the rumors that whoever was responsible for this would be strung up for sure if he or she did not desist.

***

The sounds of moaning awoke Sam and he turned to reach out for Frodo to feel empty space. Sitting up, Sam saw a small figure walking back and forth across the fireplace looking as if he was in awful pain. Sam was up in seconds and reaching for his lover. “Frodo? Is it your back again?”

Frodo gritted his teeth and turned to Sam, already annoyed at himself for waking the tired gardener. “I'm sorry, Sam. I didn't mean to wake--” Frodo bit his lip and wailed lowly. Sam took action and had Frodo return to the bed. Sitting Frodo down, Sam moved behind his lover and began to rub and stroke Frodo's back. He could feel the tension and several spasms as he worked out the kinks. He was surprised that Frodo hadn't been screaming in the amount of pain he had to be in.

“Just breathe love. Try to relax. One more breath. Your going to be just fine. Take another breath.”

A few minutes later, Sam noticed a change come over Frodo. It was apparent that the spasms were passing, leaving Frodo in an exhausted state. Laying down, Sam spooned himself around Frodo, holding him close. “It won't be much longer, my dear. Three more months.”

Sam heard a low groan in response and couldn't help smiling a little. He too was eager for the birth.

***

As the days passed slowly, Frodo found himself growing sluggish in his steps and getting tired more easily. Often in the middle of luncheon or even having tea with Arwen and Eowyn, Frodo would fall into a deep sleep.

The nose bleeds had finally stopped as Frodo entered his seventh month, but in its place, Frodo had terrible muscle spasms in his back and many dizzy spells. Twice a guard or even Arwen found Frodo swooning and had to quickly catch the hobbit before he stumbled and caused himself and his babe injury.

(*--Footnote--Frodo returned in March, by April it is confirmed by Aragorn, that Frodo was three months along. So that would mean, Frodo got Pregnant by Sam in Feb--Our Calendar months, which means this being the seventh month, it should be around August.--*)

It was then that Aragorn considered confining the hobbit to his bedroom. That did not go well as far as Frodo was concerned.

“Excuse me? What did you just say?”

“You heard me quite well, Frodo Baggins.”

“Are you certain, because if I heard what I think I heard, I tell you now I am leaving this city and walking to the shire. I am pregnant, not an invalid. You even said yourself that these are all normal conditions.”

“Normal conditions of a woman. You are a male.”

“I am not staying in bed for two months. That is just ridiculous, Aragron. I am fine, please.”

Aragorn relented but from now on, Frodo was not to be left alone. Soon Frodo found himself with a shadow. Often it was Arwen or Eowyn's but sometimes it was also Aragorn himself or several of the guards. Frodo was not happy.

***

Arwen stifled a giggle as Frodo continued to mutter angrily in his chair, sitting on the balcony. Outside the heat of summer had nearly gone as the sun lowered in the sky. Fall would be coming in just a few short months, tonight however had a chill in the air.

At some point Arwen had even taken a nearby throw blanket and placed it carefully around Frodo's shoulders. After feeding her twin babes and seeing that they were sound asleep in their cribs, Arwen returned to find Frodo was more or less stabbing at the second baby quilt he was making and causing more havoc then seeing to its completion.

“Why don't they just lock me up in a bottle! Or better yet, throw me in the dungeons. Stickle bats! Stay in bed for two months, who does he think he is--”

Frodo stopped speaking when he noticed Arwen was looking down at him, with a twinkle in her eye. Summoning a servant, Arwen had some tea and cakes brought to her room. It arrived a few minutes later. As a young servant girl entered the room, a white and black cat came in after her.

Arwen noticed the visitor and paid the stray little mind. He was the kitchen's cat, but quite old in his years. It was apparent that they would soon be needing a new cat to chase the mice away. Harmless, it leaped on Arwen’s nearby bed and made himself comfortable. A few seconds later he was cleaning himself, in an effort to make himself presentable.

The young girl lowered the drinks on the table and with a low bow, headed out the door. Putting away what was left of the second quilt, Frodo watched as Arwen poured the tea and then added milk and some sugar to the drink before giving it to Frodo.

Taking a sip, Frodo sighed sadly. “I'm sorry. It is just, I think this pregnancy is wearing on me. I haven't had a good nights sleep for weeks and... well, to be honest, I am still worried about that... gift I received.”

Arwen reached out her hand and touched Frodo's softly. “Fear not, Frodo. Elessar will find the one responsible for these cruel incidents and he will be punished for them.”

Frodo lowered his tea, looking as if a weight were upon his shoulders. “Coming back and being with child, I never gave much thought to many things. Not where I would stay? What I would do? Not even the preparations of the child coming. All I could think about was just getting back to all my friends. To all who I loved. I didn't even think about what it would mean to others that I would be pregnant. I thought they would rejoice as I do. I never in my wildest dreams thought that anyone would--”

Arwen rose to her feet and put her arms around Frodo. “One man, one individual is behind all this, Frodo. Not two or a hundred. All do rejoice of this gift. Do not allow the cruelty of one destroy this happy time for you.”

Frodo tried not to cry, but the stress and lack of sleep swept over him. In moments, he was crying tearfully in Arwen's arms.

Arwen sadly held the hobbit close, stroking his hair and back. “Oh, Frodo.”

Neither one of them saw the door to the queen's chambers open slightly and a brown sack was thrown into the room. Only a cat, sitting on a bed, caught the sound of a click as the door closed. The cat eyed the sack suspiciously and saw it was slowly moving. Then out from the bag came, not one, but two black snakes. The cat sprung up from his spot, his ears pinned down and a growl started in his throat.

Frodo allowed Arwen to hold him and keeping his arms around her waist he did not see his ring start to glow brightly. After a brief moment, Frodo collected his wits and moved away from Arwen, wiping his eyes.

“I seem to be getting even more emotional than usual.”

Arwen took her seat once more and smiled, then stopped when she heard the sound of a growl. Turning to her left, she saw the stray cat standing now on her bed, looking in their direction. Narrowing her eyes in curiosity, she started to rise when the sound of a hiss caught her ears.

She looked to Frodo and her eyes widened in horror. “Frodo, don't move!”

Frodo looked up with his eyes, but did not move. He did however hear the hiss and something moving across his feet. It was then Frodo saw his ring was glowing. Glancing to his left, Frodo felt his face pale at the sight of a black snake staring up at him.

It seemed to notice the presence of two people and was most angry. It had been taken from its lair and intended to have it's revenge, starting with the smallest creature. Just as it was about to strike, a small furry creature pounced out of nowhere, biting the snake with its jaws.

Yanking Frodo away, Arwen moved to the curtains to see that the stray cat had the upper hand and with a twist of its jaws and sharp claws, quickly killed the intruding snake.

Taking a deep breath, Frodo looked at Arwen in surprise. Arwen however smiled at the old cat; who was now looking over his kill with satisfaction and then, without a backwards glance, moved back into the room. His place in the kitchens was secure. Arwen would make certain of that.

It was then she realized that the cat was not returning to his bed, but was making his way quickly to the nursery. The sound of two babies crying struck fear into her heart. Both her and Frodo ran to the babies bedroom.

The stray cat had moved like lightening, making a quick dash for the crib. He leaped towards the babies, spotting the second slithering creature. The snake had made its way to the first child, the Princess, and was preparing to strike.

Arwen screamed.

“NO!” cried Frodo.

But just as the snake struck, the stray cat dived forward and took the intending bite full force. The cat made a low cry and quickly freed itself from the bite and attacked the snake, hissing and clawing, while the snake recoiled, deciding retreat was better.

It never made it to the floor. The cat crunched the snakes head with its jaws.

***

Hearing the queens scream, the room was quickly filled with guards. Arwen had already taken up her babies from the crib and called for her husband. Frodo, however, had gone to the elderly cat to see if he had been hurt. The cat now lay beside the snake, his breathing labored.

The snakes had indeed been poisonous and now the hero cat was paying the penalty.

When Aragorn arrived and learned what happened, his rage was barely restrained. He shouted for the guard, who had been posted in that corridor, to find out how someone could have gotten past him.

But his anger at the unwitting guard ceased, when Frodo came towards him. In his arms, he held the old stray kitchen cat. Aragorn had seen him a few times, but had paid him little heed other than throwing him a few pieces of meat and giving him a good stroke from time to time.

The one that had saved his wife, Frodo, and his two children from certain death.

Frodo's face was streaked with tears as he held the cat lovingly in his arms. It no longer moved or breathed. The cat was dead.

***

When all had quieted, Aragorn questioned the Queen's personal guards. Each of them had said they had not seen anyone enter the hallway. They had been at there posts, but how then did the snakes get into the citadel was beyond them.

It took some of Aragorns skills as a ranger to discover how they had. Near a hidden curtain was a window. It had a rope dangling from it, leading to just outside the citadel. The window and curtain was directly across the Queen's chambers. It would have taken only a moment for a guard to turn and the intruder could easily open the door and throw the sack inside, escape down the rope and to freedom--all in a matter of seconds.

The window was sealed with stones. It was obvious now that the one who had left the letter and the special gift had also been behind this latest and more deadly scheme. It also appeared that the man or person behind this would go to great lengths to harming the queen and her children in order to rid the repugnance inside Frodo.

Aragorn had never felt so angry or sick with disgust in his life. Not even dealing with Prince Cerebus or Sauron had brought him to such rage. Who ever this madmen was, he was not only dangerous to Frodo, but to everyone in the citadel... the city even. He had to be found and quickly.

Samwise arrived at the scene shortly after to find Frodo still weeping over the deceased cat. Looking at Sam, Frodo's lips trembled. “He didn't even have a name, Sam. But he risked his life to save me and the Queen... and the prince and princess.”

Sam took his own cloak and wrapped the cat in it. Then he laid a soft kiss upon its forehead. “Then we shall give him a name, fitting such a hero. We'll call him Boromir the second. And we will give him a burial near my garden. I will even make him a marble stone with his name on it.”

Frodo still wept, feeling guilty for the cat's death, but the gesture and kindness helped through the pain, if only a little. The cat was indeed given the name Boromir the second and a stone was also crafted with his name on it. But the cat was not laid in the smial's garden but the Kings, near the courtyard. Aragorn too felt guilty for not having been more attentive to the stray with no name. He would honor the stray with a proper burial, befitting a hero. Human or not.

The stray had taken care of the citadel for years and had been given little love and attention for his service as mouse catcher. Now, the stone was graced with not only a name for the cat but also the words, “Hero and champion to the King.”

The cook, Baradain, was surprised days later to enter his pantry to find a female cat nesting in a basket and being the mother of five newborn kittens. The coloring informed all who the father was. Boromir the second. It seemed he did not spend all his time catching mice. Each of the five kittens were given names and upon reaching eight weeks, were given a home. Three (Boromir the third, Berry and Ruby) would remain in the citadel with its mother (also given a name, simply called, Mama) forever as a reminder to all of the service of the late Boromir the second.

The remaining two were also given homes. The one gray and white kitten was snapped up by Eowyn, who named him Lad. The last kitten was a female and it was taken by none other than Frodo. She was the smallest of the litter and obviously the runt. Her coloring was the same as her father, black and white. But on her forehead was a strange marking that looked to be a star. And so that was how the smial received their first house pet, Star, who would rein as the mistress of the entire home for many, many years to come.

***

The intruder, and now attempted murderer, just as before, vanished without a trace. And as the weeks passed, though Aragorn kept up his guard, all resumed to normal. But not entirely. Aragorn knew without a doubt that the one behind all of this would strike again.

***

As Frodo entered his last trimester his pace slowed even more and Sam no longer left for Ithilien. The days of the birth were approaching and Frodo started counting down the days, when he would soon be holding his own baby in his arms.

The discomfort down in his lower region one morning had Frodo seeking out Aragorn.

Although Frodo hated having to be looked at, especially in that certain area, the changes in his body had him gravely concerned. Aragorn dismissed all morning duties and quickly examined the hobbit. After a few minutes, Aragorn informed Frodo he could get dressed.

“Well?” Frodo asked impatiently.

Aragorn sat down beside Frodo and quickly placed a protective arm around him. “All is going accordingly as mentioned in Elronds books. It seems your body is preparing for the birth.”

Sighing with relief, Frodo leaned his head upon Aragorn's chest. “Oh, Aragorn, some days I wish this was over with. The back pain and the sleepless nights--the cravings and then-- other days I want to keep this little life inside of me, safe from all harm.”

“You are still worrying about the mysterious attacker?”

Frodo nodded and, removing his head, looked deeply in Aragorn's eyes. Even as Frodo spoke, Aragorn was vehemently shaking his head.

“Perhaps after the birthing it may be wise if I left for the shire. Just for a time, Aragorn--this last attack could have caused you much grief. You must think of Arwen and the children--”

Rising to his feet, Aragorn continued to shake his head as he paced the room. “I will hear no more of this. It was not your fault what happened in Arwen's chambers. The blame lies only at the one responsible for doing these evil acts and I will find him and he will be punished. As for leaving, the day you leave for the shire will be made only by you, freely making that choice. Not by force or some veiled threat. I will not lose you to this madman. I love you, Frodo. You know this?”

Sighing, Frodo nodded and sat down in the empty chair. When he looked back into Aragorn's eyes and smiled lightly. “And some days I wish I was back in Bree. Days when it was just a ranger that I faced, not a King that I too love dearly.”

That evening, Frodo dined with both the King and Queen. Sam, as usual, was a bit uneasy. He had never found being waited upon easy to contend with. He was too use to tending to others, to his children, to Frodo. But somehow, the four enjoyed the quiet dinner. And when Frodo retired for the evening, he laid contently and for the first time in weeks without pain in Sam's arms. It seemed the baby had settled down for a good nap.

***

The following morning, Frodo was found by Eowyn in the library reading over Armienas's pregnancy and life. Sam was in the kitchens helping Baradain with Frodo's eleveneses.

“Frodo!”

Getting his attention, Eowyn handed the special letter to Frodo's hands. Delighted to see Celeborn's signature, Frodo thanked Eowyn and opened it. Inside was a brief letter in which Frodo found most intriguing. It was later at Elevenses with Aragorn and Arwen present that Frodo read it out loud for all to hear.

“Dearest Master Baggins, I wrote to you as soon as I received your letter, just this past evening by Haldir. I am delighted to inform you that you have no reason to fear over the magic of these rings, gifted to you by my Lady and Lord Elrond. The rings that you and Master Samwise wear are indeed elvish made. With the drawings you have given to me, I can tell that they were made in the first age. Also, in a brief time of looking at the drawings, I was able to recall and identify them. They are referred to as the Gemini keepstones.

The creator of these rings has long since passed over the sea and at this time his name eludes me. He was a favorite in my Lady's court, however, and I can still remember his face.

I am also with great gladness be able to inform you and set you at ease that their is no hidden evil or malice contained within these gemstones. They do however, as you are aware contain some magic, as all elves enjoy putting into any object we create.

The rings are not just a symbol of love. It is also a vow of eternal love, soul mates, which even back in those days of the first age was hard to come by. As long as your wear them, your souls will be entwined. No matter how far apart you are from each other, you will always feel the others presence. It will also lead you back to each other if lost, for the love you have is like a map.

I am also surprised that my Lady did not inform you of their hidden power. Perhaps she delighted in giving this gift and hoped that you would, in time as you have, look to me for confirmation of its power.

It is not an all powerful consuming magic as the Dark Lords. These Rings, as you will notice in time, have slowed the aging process. For that was the reason of their creation. They were meant to be given as a gift to mortal lovers, friends to elves. It will lengthen your life span. Not by thousands of years, but perhaps a few hundred. So long as you wear the rings you shall not age another day, until such time as you both either grow weary of the other or of life.

Fear not that the rings shall cause any harm to your unborn child for its effect is only upon its wearer. As these rings were created out of love and by the power of good, they can and will only bring much lightness of heart to you and Master Samwise. Whenever there is danger, you will know by the glow as of Sting when Orcs were near.

Be assured, I, like many others, delight in the knowledge that you have returned from the West. Healed and whole and with child. Such delight in this news and the birth of my own great grandchildren, inform my granddaughter that I intend to come the following spring for an extended visit.”

Frodo paused to hear the happy gasp of Arwen in the news that her Grandfather not only knew of the birth of the prince and princess, but intended to come for a visit. She would spend most of the remaining part of the year making preparations for his coming. Frodo then continued to read the rest.

“In all of your happiness, I detect a cloud above you, Master Baggins. Fear not this darkness, for its hand will be revealed and all will be well once again. May your light always outshine all others and may the days of your return be forever marked as the conquest of love and its triumph over all things. Yours, Celeborn”

Seeing the delight in Arwen's eyes, Frodo handed over the letter where he was sure she re-read the news of her grandfather's visit next spring.

“So much to do, so much to plan.” So excited, Arwen raced out of the room, already trying to figure out which room would be best to put her grandfather in.

Frodo looked to Sam and just simply smiled. Sam did the same and when they both faced Aragorn all three started to laugh.

***

It was two days later, leaving Sam in the garden, that Frodo returned to his bed chambers for a nap, that he discovered a person in his room. None other than the midwife, who had helped the birthing of Eowyn's and the Queen’s children.

Frodo was a bit taken back to see her unfolding the bed for him and looked equally shocked. Then straightening she smiled at Frodo with an all too friendly expression.

“I was asked by Master healer Graham to check in on you. I apologize for entering the chamber in your absence but I saw you coming up the stairs and made haste to see to your comfort.”

She even fluffed the pillows.

Frodo smiled and moved to the nearby table. As he reached for a cup of tea, Frodo was slightly taken back when he saw that his ring was glowing.

“I too am sorry. I remember seeing you at Lady Eowyn's child birth and the queens... But not after...” For a moment Frodo thought he saw a frown on the midwife's face, then like a flicker it was gone. Back in place was the all too friendly smile. A forced smile.

“Yes, I am afraid I was present at the Queen's birthing. As if it was my calling. I had to leave for Ithilien for a time. I only returned a few weeks ago, after helping a few other pregnant females.” She then paused to add, “Human females give a natural birth.”

“Lady Eowyn speaks highly of you. I am sorry, your name was never told to me...”

She grinned and offered to help Frodo into a nearby chair as he seemed unwilling to go his bed at the moment.

“Josephine Chamberly.”

“Josephine. That is a beautiful name.”

“As is yours,” she replied quickly.

Once seated, Frodo looked her over and saw that she was not a woman of elderly years. She looked to be in her thirties with very long black hair, that was neatly pulled back under a cloth. She was dressed in a brown robe with a belt on her waist. A small brown sack was nestled on her right side and for a second Frodo thought he saw movement within it. Or was it just the way she moved that made it look like --he turned to look down at her hands and saw upon her right hand was a gold band.

“You are married?” he asked.

“Yes, but he is deceased. He died during the great war. While I was having his child.”

Frodo met her eyes and realized though they were green in color they seemed dark and glazed over. “The child?”

“Died three days later.”

“My condolences for your loss.”

“Yes. My loss.” She moved slowly towards the table and, with Frodo's nod of agreement, sat down on the opposite side. She poured two cups of tea and handed one to Frodo. Frodo took it, but did not sip from it.

“Did you ever think of remarrying?”

She seemed to scoff at that notion and shrugged. “Never. The marriage I had was arranged. The only things that meant anything to me was my child. A child I conceived by a human male and a child I carried inside of me for nine long months. A very natural time.”

Frodo felt a cold chill go through him. How he wished desperately that Sam had come with him now. He did not trust this woman. She had seemed so kind months before, but now... Was he just imagining things? Was he just looking for anyone to place blame to sending those letters and those snakes? Surely no woman could have done such evil deeds. She seemed friendly enough smiling at him.

“We in Minas Tirith are told quite often how much we owe the periannaths for saving us from Sauron. I never did thank you. Thank you,” she replied and it sounded more like, 'I hate you.'

Frodo took a breath and felt his baby move, kicking. Some pain seemed to shoot down his back. Frodo grimaced.

“A muscle spasm little one? That is quite normal and natural for a woman carrying. Fear not, I am sure Our King and Master Graham will see to the child's safe birth. They are both quite-- capable.”

He nodded absently, putting down his cup of tea. The sound of crying got his attention and Frodo remembered Star. Getting to his feet, Frodo made his way to the other side of the room where a small box had been placed by the window. All curled up in a thick blanket was Star, she had woken and was eager for something to eat.

Picking her up, Frodo turned to Josephine and made his way over to the table. Setting the kitten down on the corner, Frodo poured some cream into a saucer and handed it to Star who eagerly lapped at her meal. Seating himself once more, Frodo glanced at his ring and saw it was still glowing. Could Sam's be glowing as well? Was he on his way?

“Lady Eowyn speaks so highly of you that she has said when she returns to Ithilien that she wants to hire you as a full time nanny for her children.”

“Yes. She asked me just this morning. She is a lovely woman, strong and brave. I have agreed to do so. I will of course miss being in the city, however I find now my tastes have soured as of late.”

Frodo tried to remain calm and stroked Star as she continued to lap at her milk. “And why is that, my Lady?”

The woman arched an eyebrow and shrugged. “I am a woman of nature and of late, much unnatural things have been taking place here.”

Frodo tried to meet her eyes, but found he couldn't. His heart was beating fast now and the baby was kicking again. His baby was unsettled as he was becoming. Frodo finally brought his eyes up and stared into Josephine's face and saw pure hatred in her eyes. Hatred directed at him.

“I am sorry to be such a poor host, however I am feeling a bit tired. Perhaps we can talk again later. Tomorrow?”

She rose from her chair, without a word, and seemed to making her way out. Instead, she paused at the closed door and then, with a flick of a switch, she locked it into place. Frodo swallowed.

“Let us not play anymore games, Ringbearer. You now know who is behind all. A pity, I hoped to be out of here before your return. I wanted to be far from the city before your body was discovered.” She turned and faced Frodo and though she held no weapon in her arms, she looked like she could kill just with her stare.

Frodo got to his feet, taking the kitten with him, who meowed at her interrupted meal. But feeling Frodo's hands on her fur, she began to purr contentedly.

“You wrote the letter at the smial?”

“A hole in the ground, like a rabbit. You creatures are disgusting animals.”

Frodo moved towards the window and glanced out to see if he could see Sam in the courtyard. He was not there. Was he on his way?

“It is how we live. We hobbits. We love the earth. To us it is natural.”

“Mother earth you mean. She must look upon you like ants getting beneath her skin.”

Frodo swallowed and watched in terror as she took two steps forward. “Why are you doing this? I have not harmed you.”

“Only women should be allowed to have babies. Not men. They are weak and are incapable of creating life. Only death.”

“That is not so.”

“Isn't it? How many wars upon Middle-Earth were the creation by a woman? You will find none. Only men have created war. Women should have been rulers of the world. Not men. Then we would have had peace long ago. And during the war of the ring, perhaps my child would still be alive if the King had been attending to me, rather than seeing to the Ringbearer. Later to wed an Elf woman!”

Frodo licked his dry lips and felt the kitten turn in his hands. She looked at the approaching woman and seemed to not like what she was seeing and hissed at the human. Frodo held the kitten closer to his chest. So, she not only had great prejudice against him carrying a baby and interspecies marriage but also blamed him for the death of her child.

“The dead rat was your second warning. You still did not listen, did you?”

“The snakes could have killed the Queen and the King's children? Did you not know that?”

The woman only smiled. “Pity. An elf queen? Who would hear of such things? Such unnatural things, to bond out of your own species. Our King began his degradation of humanity with such a union. Then he allowed you to come. You! A male halfling with child. Another disgrace. Disgusting seeing your swollen body, where only a woman has the right to have.”

Backed as far as he could go against the wall, Frodo watched in horror as the woman continued to take steps towards him. Her left hand moved downwards. She pushed up a piece of cloth revealing a long white boot where she proceeded to pull an object from it. A very long and very sharp dagger.

“So many speak such sweet words of you. How innocent and pure you are. How beautiful you are. And yet they speak nothing of the thing that you carry... A thing that is probably another vile creation of Sauron. One that I will rid the world of.”

She raised the knife to strike and Frodo clutched at his stomach, his eyes closed in fear. “No, please!”

But the strike did not fall. A sudden thump was heard, followed by something metal hitting the floor in the distance. Frodo opened his eyes and saw in surprise Lady Eowyn.

She held a sword at Josephine's throat and on the other side of the room the dagger lay. Josephine stared in shock at Eowyn, her hand clutching her wrist where blood was now dripping. The two woman stared at each other. One in hatred and the other with a will that was long ago used to destroy the witch king.

“How?”

Josephine turned to see the door was still closed. Eowyn only shook her head at the woman.

“I was here when you first entered the room. You forget the King has ordered the Ringbearer never to be left alone. I had come earlier to help prepare a bath for Frodo, and while in the tub house, I heard the patter of feet. Not Hobbit feet. I have kept hidden long enough, heard enough.”

Josephine only glared at her in anger. “You of all women should understand why I had to do this. It is unnatural!” she replied, pointing her finger at Frodo.

Eowyn only held the sword closer to her throat. “You are not only mad but evil as well. To think that I would want any harm to come to Frodo Baggins? The Ringbearer who suffered so to save us all from Sauron. The one that sacrificed his very life so we could live in peace. If anyone is vile, it is you. I cannot believe I thought you would make a great nanny to my children. To think, that the years to come, you would teach them the same malice and prejudice within you. The one who tried to kill my Queen and my King's children. I should kill you with this sword myself. But I will have the King see to you. And he will.”

Eowyn faced Frodo. “Go to the door and call the Guards, Frodo.”

Frodo wasted no time and hurried to the door just as the sound of running steps were heard and Sam's familiar voice calling his name. With a relieved smile, Frodo unlocked and opened the door. Unfortunately, hearing Sam's cry caused Eowyn to turn her head and it was enough for Josephine to try and flee out the window.

Eowyn chased after her. Reaching the window, Eowyn looked out to see that the woman was trying to walk on the ledge. “You cannot escape, Josephine. Come back, the ledge is too small. Don't be a fool.”

But Josephine seemed an apt and fit woman and was indeed making her way across the ledge. Suddenly, her body jolted as if she had been stung. She made a loud wail, lost her footing and fell. She landed two stories down on her back.

Eowyn shook her head and turned from the window to see Frodo in Sam's arms, sobbing. Reaching her friends, she gave each of them a hug and then made her way outside. Reaching Josephine's form where several guards now gathered, she was not surprised the guards were stomping the ground with there feet.

“Stay back, my lady,” called one of the guards. “It seems the woman was attacked by several black spiders. Where they came from is not known for I am certain that none of this species were in the city.”

Eowyn looked across the guards and saw one last spider lived. It was crawling on the woman’s back, looking for escape. It was killed quickly by a guards sword. Unable to bare the sight another moment, she headed back to the citadel. She could see Faramir was with the King and Queen, who were staring in horror at the death of the mid-wife. It seemed it was going to be her sore duty to inform them that the woman was the one behind all the threats and the attack against them all.

That night, Josephine's body was burned. Her ashes were to be taken in the morning out of the city.

Since she had no kin and because she had tried to harm the King's family, it was his decree that her ashes would be scattered out of the city. He had first wished her remains to be scattered in the lands of Mordor. But Frodo had beseeched Aragorn to be merciful.

For Frodo, Aragorn permitted her ashes then to be scattered in Sirith Mountain.

Deep into the night, Frodo found he could not sleep. Sam held Frodo close in his arms and kissed his cheek and neck repeatedly.

“Frodo love, do not blame yourself. The woman was wicked. She deserved what happened. Killed by the spiders she meant to throw in our bed to kill you. You and our child. She not only meant to kill our child, but Strider's too. Don't be thinking about it anymore... Please. If you desire now to return to the Shire, I won't be trying to stop you. But just know this, to be driven away from a place that has brought you much happiness. by one individual's nasty--”

Frodo cut Sam off with a low hiss. “One individual. How can you be so sure their is only one? What if more exist? What have I done, Sam? I should have listened to--to him. He tried to convince me to adopt instead. To be like Bilbo. But I was selfish. I wanted more. I wanted a child of my own. Of my body and blood. Mine to hold. I never even gave it any thought of what would come in the future. How many will look at my child in disgust and say in whispers or behind our back how unnatural--”

“Don't you say that!” Sam yelled, his anger getting the better of him. But Frodo had already pulled away from him and stared off into the wall. Tears were already swimming in his eyes.

“And when our child grows, who will he or she call father and mother? And what if--”

Sam pulled Frodo back into his arms and Frodo closed his eyes, shaking. A soft meow was heard and Frodo looked down at the side of the bed to see Star had left her private bed seeking another.

Frodo reached down and picked up the kitten and held Star in his arms. She purred in contentment as if all that mattered was the three of them.

“What have I set in motion, Sam? More evil?”

Sam laid his hand on Frodo's shoulders and leaned against his lovers back.

“Frodo, me dear, everything you have done has brought only good. Think about it... If you had not come back--Aragorn would still be blaming himself for you leaving Middle-Earth. Lady Arwen and Lady Eowyn would not have had you to help them through there pregnancies and don't even say it... you know that your presence helped them to think not of their woes but you. You became a beacon of hope to everyone. A light when so much pain had come to Middle-Earth. And that vile woman... she used you as the means of why she did what she did. You know very well if you had been here or not, pregnant of not, she would have eventually tried to harm Strider's children. Only you wouldn't have been here when she did the deed. She looked at anyone who was different as an evil. She allowed her loss to corrupt and change her into a vile creature. Now perhaps she can find peace with her child in the after life. Love... Know that you are a shining light. A guide to everyone. Especially to me. You bring such joy and goodness into everyone’s life. Your returning brought me healing. Now I am complete, no longer torn in two.”

Lying on his back, Frodo brushed his hand on Sam's wet cheek and nodded. “Oh Sam, I'm sorry. I love you. Right or wrong. I love you!”

Sam smiled and bent down, slowly, to kiss Frodo's lips. An annoyed mewl had him pull away. Star glared at the two of them as if to say, 'Hey I am in the middle here, stop trying to crush me.'

Putting Star to the side, Frodo reached for Sam. Sam moved into the circle of Frodo's arms and kissed Frodo ever so gently on the lips and then broke it. Frodo smiled and waited and Sam came back, deepening the kiss, lingering in the embrace and the warmth of their love, needing, wanting.

They would not be able to do too much, now that Frodo was nearing his time, but Sam and Frodo had long since discovered other ways of making love. Breaking the kiss to get some air, Frodo felt his cheeks flushed and felt a need pulling at him. But before they could continue, Frodo had to make his decision.

“We will stay.”

A decision that was made months ago. The kitten watched the two for a moment and then, finding sleep overtaking her, Star turned twice in the bed and found a good lumpy spot. Curling up into a small ball with her fluffy tail covering her eyes, she drifted off into a deep sleep.

Frodo and Sam made love throughout the rest of the night and when the first rays of sunlight filtered into the room, Star awoke to look for breakfast and found the two hobbits sound asleep in each others arms. She meowed several times to try to awaken them. They did not even stir. Most put out, Star leaped down from the bed and made her way to the table. She easily jumped on the chair and using the cloth and her sharp claws, she managed to reach the top of the table. Giving the two sleeping hobbits one last look, she toppled over what she was looking for and happily lapped at the cream.

Life couldn't get any better than this.

It was later that evening, Frodo was just coming from his bath, that trumpets rang out announcing a party was approaching Ithilien.

Legolas and Gimli were coming with no less than three huge wagons and what appeared to be a cluster of hobbits. Sam at once hurried to the gates to greet the party.

Frodo remained behind, nervously wondering what new trial he was about to face.

It was approaching late evening and Frodo was just contemplating the evening meal, when loud voices filled the courtyard.

Frodo looked down from his bedroom window and saw Legolas and Gimli arrive with one wagon packed with children. Samwise, with the help of Merry and Pippin, who drew up in ponies, hurried to unload the wagon.

Each little body squealed in delight and hugged their long absent father as they were pulled from the wagon. The last and what appeared to be the oldest child, unmistakably Elanor, hugged her father the hardest. “Papa! I missed you!”

Frodo smiled and basked in the happy sight. Redressing, Frodo decided that now was the time to face the music, come what may. Slowly making his way to the courtyard, Frodo could hear the happy chatter of child voices speaking to there father.

“Oh Da, we saw the new smial. Mr. Legolas and Mr. Gimli showed it to us. It is beautiful.”

“I even have my own room, Da?”

“Of course, Frodo, my lad. You as well Elanor. What of you younglings? What do you think?”

A young boys voice at once spoke. “It is not as beautiful as Bag End, Da, but I do like it. The pond is really nice and the garden.”

Another voice dived in.

“I love the parlor, it is so spacious And the fireplace is even nicer than the fireplace in Bag end.”

“I saw the city,” cried yet another young voice. “It is all made of stone. Oh Da, it really is magnificent. And the White city... it is so big!”

“Big!” chorused all of them.

Sam's laugh, followed by Legolas and Gimli's, filled the air. Frodo reached the bottom steps and looked over to see Sam surrounded by all of his children. Elanor had one of her father's arms in hers. Two young boys were latched onto his legs, and a baby, no more than a year old, was curled into her father's other arm, softly cooing in contentment. The rest of the lot seemed to be trying to get some room to also hug their father. Sam greeted all with smiles, hugs and kisses.

It was Merry and Pippin, his cousins, who spotted Frodo first. Leaving the gathering, Merry made his way over to Frodo with a beaming smile on his face and his arms wide open.

“Frodo!”

At once they embraced and Frodo did the same with Pippin.

“I missed you, cousins!”

“And I you,” shouted Merry. “We were so worried we wouldn't make it in time for the birth.”

Pippin giggled, hitting Merry on the back of his shoulder. “We were a bit delayed. We were just reaching the gap of Rohan when someone's wife went into labor.”

Merry glared at Pippin, but then smiled and faced Frodo. “Yes... Rory has made it into this world. He took his time coming I might add. Estella was begging me to go in and get him towards the end.”

Frodo looked at the two of them in shock. “You brought Estella and Diamond with you?”

Merry and Pip both shrugged there shoulders. “Well, yeah. We intend to stay for quite a while. Besides, we had to check in on our second home. I must say Estella is most pleased with the smials, which by the way she and Di stayed to unload some of our things as well as tidy things up a bit. I told her we would be back in the morning.”

“So's Di. Though she does want to add a few changes and additions. Wait until you get to see my little Eowyn too.” Pip grinned and proudly announced to Frodo. “Oh and we'll be needing a nursery. Looks like she is carrying again.” He then added cheekily. “We never did get to stop off at Rivendell. You wouldn't want to tell me now, should I be making the nursery fit for a boy or a girl?”

Frodo sealed his lips.

“That is so unfair, cousin.”

All three laughed and that brought the attention of the others. Frodo soon found nine pairs of little eyes looking at him. Not sure what to do, Frodo could only stare back at them. His mouth felt dry and he wasn't sure if he was going to be able to keep standing since his legs suddenly seemed quite heavy.

Would they accept him as Sam kept telling him, or were they about to shun him in anger? Angry at taking them away from their home at Bag End. Frodo tried to breathe and found that he couldn't. His heart felt sick and he was sure he was going to faint.

Then suddenly a cry of joy rang out. “Uncle Frodo!” And the next minute, Frodo had his arms and legs and every part of his body being hugged by a mass of children.

Legolas, Gimli, Merry, Pippin and Sam all laughed at the sight. Frodo's fears at last were put to rest and he basked in the joy of Rose's children as they welcomed him into their home and into their hearts.

***

After a lengthy meal, Frodo and Sam set about getting the children ready for bed. They decided to let them sleep near the fire place in their bed chambers. Eowyn and Arwen fetched blankets and pillows with the help of the servants and before long the children were nestled in, but unwilling to go to sleep without a story.

Arwen was most happy to sit on the floor, in the center of them all, and tell them the delightful tale of Luthien and Beren.

Frodo and Sam watched them all nearby, enjoying the very serene scene. When the children finally did hear the call of sleep, Arwen gave each of them a kiss and a wink to Frodo and Sam before heading out the door. Tomorrow would be a long day. A day of more happy meetings as the children met Aragorn, the King. As well as getting a chance to see the White city, which to them, had only been in stories and books. To them everything seemed to be an adventure. Not a single one seemed upset or missing home.

“I told you!” Sam replied rather smugly. “Nothing to be worrying about.”

But, as Frodo retired to his bed, he was having a bit difficulty getting the blankets up, when a small hand bent down and brought the blanket up to his chest. Frodo looked into two beautiful blue eyes and hair of pure sunlight. Elanor.

He had last seen her when she was but four years old. A striking child even then, one look could see that when she reached her tweens, Sam would have to beat the male hobbits off with his hoe. She was beautiful and in so many ways looked like her mother.

“Elanor. You look much like your mother.”

Elanor smiled and placed her hand into Frodo's. “I have no memories of you, Uncle Frodo. Though my papa told me much about you. So much so, that I feel like I have always known you. I was so happy to learn of your return. So happy.”

Frodo went to speak, but Elanor already moved up and placed a kiss on Frodo's cheek. “Mama would have been happy too. Papa--was never the same after you left. He missed you so much.”

Frodo reached over and smoothed back one of her stray curls and nodded. “I wish Rose was still here with us all. I am sorry. She was a good friend to me.”

“Don't be sad. She had ten happy years with papa. She did not regret anything, except maybe not able to show you how much she cared for you. And she did, you know. You were a part of her family and you always will be. Know you are indeed welcome in our family. My papa has a big heart and has lots of room to love some more.”

Frodo couldn’t help but ask, “How can you accept all this. I mean--”

Elanor shushed him with her fingers and Frodo for one moment thought he was looking at Rose Cotton once more, not her child. “Mama told me once, before she died, that the love between parent and child can never be broken. No one can take that place. But children grow and become adults and move away and have families of their own. That is normal and expected, but it leaves those parents very lonely and very much alone. She wanted us to know that if she ever died that papa should not be by himself. That we should not only accept, but make welcome to who ever he finds love with again, to take not her place, but help with the loneliness of time. Maybe--maybe my mother knew, Uncle Frodo, that she was not long for this world and that she knew--somehow you would come back.”

He felt the tears spring into his eyes and Elanor hugged him softly. “Welcome back to our family, Uncle Frodo. And know truly, that we all look forward to our siblings arrival.”

Elanor was back in bed when Sam returned from the bathhouse. He glanced over all the children and was not surprised to find that Primrose had decided, not to sleep on the floor, but sleep in her father's bed. She had already made herself comfortable next to Frodo, with her thumb in her mouth.

Frodo smiled as Sam huffed with no heat and got in on the other side. “Better get use to it, Sam. Another is coming. I think we may need a bigger bed.”

Sam chuckled lightly and reaching out his hand, he clutched onto Frodo's. The day was over and both of them joined the children in a welcomed and peaceful sleep. When morning came, it was no surprise to Frodo to find that a few more little ones had slipped into their bed. Frodo smiled and stared out the window as the sunlight filled the room and felt as if he was on top of the world. When he had returned to Middle-Earth he was sure he had reached as happy as he could ever be, but now he realized he had at last reached the highest point.

He had, at long last, come home.

***

Later that morning the children were quickly gathered up by Sam and, with Pippin, Legolas and Gimli, made for the Smial near Ithilien. Sam went with them to see to the last (and where to put the other two wagons of belongings from the Shire) arrangements and make certain that Estella and Di had everything they needed.

It was no surprise to anyone, that the Queen and Lady Eowyn also decided to ride with them. The two maidens wanted to welcome the wives of Merry and Pippin to Gondor in true friendly fashion.

Merry, however, stayed behind.

Sitting quietly by the fireplace, Frodo was still trying to complete the second quilt and found it was just not happening. His mind couldn't concentrate. He was still basking in the pure happiness of belonging he felt in his heart and soul.

Merry knocked on the door and, after a brief time, entered the room. Frodo was so consumed in his own thoughts he did not hear Merry enter and only noticed him when he was finally standing beside him.

“Oh, Mer, you scared me.”

“No wonder, I knocked three times. You were off in another place?”

Frodo grinned. “A happy place.”

“That is to be sure, with that smile in your eyes.”

Frodo noticed the small wrapped package in his hands and looked at Merry curiously.

“What is that?”

“Something special. Although more presents are coming. I was going to wait, but I just couldn't. Too impatient.”

He then handed Frodo the small package. It seemed light and soft. Frodo looked at Merry questioningly.

“A few months ago. Well, we were just packing to leave when Lady Eowyn's letter came.”

“Letter?”

Merry wrapped his arms around his chest and nodded. “Letter. She asked me if I could look for a certain something. And I want you to know that it took me a long time to track this down. I will have you know that it has quite the story behind it. But first... open it.”

Frodo, still looking puzzled, began to unwrap the gift and as he did Merry recounted the story.

“Long years it has been told to me that Aunt Lobelia took many things that did not belong to her. I spoke to my father, Saradoc, who at first didn't know what I was talking about. After some prodding, I did manage to learn that he gave the blanket to Lobelia just after you came to the hall. But then Aunt Lobelia died three winters ago and I had no knowledge of where all her belongings or supposed belongings had been placed. Especially with Pimple being gone.”

Frodo gasped as he held a very old and worn blanket in his arms. It's colors had faded through the years, but still the delicate beading and creation of the quilt was unmistakable. Sunflowers, daisies, roses, lilacs all made with a precise hand. At the corner of it was the initials PB.

Frodo once again felt the tears come to his eyes and he looked at Merry in delight unable to stop the flow of emotions. “Merry!”

“My mum, after Aunt Lobelia's death, had to go over her property and estate. My father hasn't been well since his touch of the chill last year. So after some questioning with her, she was able to inform me where she had put most of Aunt Lobelia's things. Years ago, when she was going through everything, she was not surprised to find many of the objects in Lobelia's home had been stolen or lost property from others. Others that Lobelia denied taking years ago. Including your mother's quilt.”

Frodo gave Merry a fierce hug, nearly knocking the wind out of Merry. Breaking the hug, Merry finished his tale all with a happy grin on his face.

“Estella, Pip and Di, looked all over the storage room. Three days. That much stuff, it took us three days and it was in the very last trunk in the corner room.”

“Oh Merry! Merry, thank you! Oh, thank you!”

Merry looked at his cousin. “The other surprise will be this afternoon. I shall say no more.”

Frodo and Merry spent the rest of the evening together, talking not about the Ring or the War, but of childhood memories and adventures shared by two rascals of the hall.

***

Later in the day, sure enough, Merry was quite correct. Estella, Di and the children returned with Sam. In tow, they had a trunk brought up by the King's guards. After the luncheon, Frodo was surprised to once again be surrounded by what is now known as a baby shower, only Shire style.

Cakes, drinks, fruits and lots of mushrooms.

The children were distracted by the King and Faramir, who sat themselves on the ground, intent on some story telling in the courtyard and found instead that the children used them as a sitting perch. The huge men were fascinating and in true fashion of wee hobbits, set upon asking the Prince of Ithilien and King of Gondor every question they could think of.

“Why is the sky blue?”

“Do you really command all of Middle-Earth?”

“I don't see your sword? Do you really have a sword?”

“If the King has come back, how come you live so far away from the Shire?”

“You do realize you have too many names? We'll just have to call you Uncle Strider.”

“Did you really fight Sauron single handedly at the Black Gates?”

“What is that funny stuff on your face. Ewww, hair? Whoever heard of hair on a face?”

“You have very nice eyes for a human. But you walk way too loud. You should get rid of those boots. Be lots quieter and can sneak up on people. Don‘t chat think?”

And the inevitable question, “How do you get so big eating so little?” courtesy of a four year old Daisy who looked Aragorn and Faramir up and down with squinted eyes and was the spitting image of her father.

Upstairs in Frodo and Sam’s bedroom, Estella held her small newborn in her arms and bestowed a kiss upon Frodo as he opened up a special present she had gotten for him when she heard of his return. An ink and feather set and several empty bound books. So he could write, not stories of a Ring, but of each little note about his child's birth and growth.

“I am so pleased you returned dearest cousin. We missed you so very much. Not a day has gone by that my Mer doesn’t speak of you.”

“Your little Eowyn and Rory are a delight to see. Never did I think that my cousin, Merry, would have to confront the dreaded days of parenthood. I hope they are half as much fun to watch as Merry was.”

Merry at once looked at Frodo in a mock grimace. “I don’t know whether to say thank you, or smack you cousin.”

Di also gave a gift. “A small stuffed animal, which is in the shape of an owl. I think all children should have something soft to cling to at night.”

Frodo agreed whole heartily as he twirled Pippin‘s daughter, Sunshine not yet three, in his arms before opening the gift.

“She truly is a bit of sunshine, Pip.”

The last gift of course was from everyone. It was at least 12 by 14 inches and was flat. Unraveling the present, Frodo was stunned to see it was a painting and not just any painting. It was a picture of his parents. His mother and father.

Frodo couldn't believe his eyes. He had seen the picture before, but long ago.

“It originally was in the care of Aunt Dora Baggins home.” Estella quickly explained to everyone in the room. “She was Drogo's sister. After she died, the painting went missing. We found it in the storage room. Right behind the trunk that had your mother's quilt.”

Frodo showed the picture to everyone and even Aragorn was quite moved. All could see that Frodo had each of his parents looks. Though it was his mother he had the strongest resemblance.

The picture was taken perhaps many years ago, and crafted sometime around his parents marriage. Drogo stood beside a blooming apple tree, dressed in a deep brown vest and matching shorts. His hair was neatly brushed and had bright white teeth and deep blue eyes. Blue eyes that seemed full of happiness. It was clear that he was a hobbit in love. One could also see a bit of a belly was forming from many a good meal made by the love of his life.

Primula was slightly different. She sat just to his right on a white stone bench holding a bouquet of roses, daisies and lilacs in her hands. Aragorn and Arwen would both recall having the same thoughts. That she looked so much like Frodo that in a sense she had a quality that was not exactly hobbit like. Elvish perhaps with the delicate and soft facial features and the skin that was pale and glowing all at the same time. She was also quite slender looking and had long dark curls that fell past her waist.

Her eyes were the most startling of all for they were the same exact blue as her son's. Gentle, soft and full of life, revealing every emotion she felt. This moment in time she was full of happiness and tranquility. She was dressed in a soft white and green laced gown. A wreath of flowers were in her hair and a small veil was slipped just underneath it, cascading all around her shoulders and down to her feet. She was a true vision of beauty.

Arwen and Eowyn both felt tears come to their eyes. “She was so beautiful. I can see why she was loved by all.”

Frodo felt his own tears, unable to believe that in one day, the two objects he had always hoped to find had finally come back to him. Bilbo had spent quite a few years trying to locate Frodo's comfort blanket and the portrait that should have rightfully been given to Frodo after the death of his parents. But no one could tell him where it was.

All this time, it had been Lobelia who had taken them. She had indeed been a very angry and hateful woman. Frodo found this was one act that would take a long time to mend his heart, but he knew someday he would forgive her. For holding a grudge against anyone, especially those gone from his life was just simply not worth the effort.

“She was. They both were.” Frodo replied as the tears fell down his cheeks. Sam moved to Frodo's side and hugged his lover tightly.

“Merry and Pippin brought my Gaffer and mama's portrait from Bag End too. We will place them both in the family living room, right above the mantel, next to the fireplace so we can have them looking on at us.”

Frodo nodded feeling completely at peace. What more could a hobbit want? What more could he want?

***

As the days followed, Frodo started to spend as much time as he could with the children, hoping to not only get to know them but also allow them to get to know him as well. Not Frodo, the Ringbearer or even Samwise's beloved Master, but as Uncle Frodo, who desired nothing more than to be a part of their lives.

Curious about how the Gamgee Homestead was coming, Frodo made several attempts to convince Aragorn to let him go down to Ithilien.

But Aragorn would not permit it. “Too close to your time, Frodo.”

“But I want to see the nursery and I have yet to even walk inside of our home to be...”

“Patience. You will see it soon enough. Think only of the child inside of you. Your time is approaching.”

Indeed it was. As August passed, and they entered September, Frodo found he was once again feeling pain in his back. The nosebleeds returned, including cramps in his legs and in his stomach and twice in one day Frodo fainted, once in the corridor and once on his way from the bathhouse.

Aragorn spoke to the Master healer Graham and Frodo soon found himself confined to his bed. Unhappy with this turn of events, Frodo obeyed the orders, hoping only now that the baby inside of him was well and would be born into this world safely and without incident.

As weeks slowly passed and Frodo tried to occupy his time with reading books and telling Sam and Rose's children stories, he nearly forgot the date of his and Bilbo's birthday. Frodo was most distressed when his birthday came that he had not prepared and gotten all those he loved presents.

To Frodo's astonishment, however, he needed not worry for Arwen and Eowyn set about having a small party in Frodo's own room with lots of cakes and lemon water, as well as games for the children to play and even more delightful stories to tell.

Sam also helped with giving each of the children a small gift, courtesy of Uncle Frodo. Eowyn’s children were each given a personalized cup. Pip and Merry’s children were given a new outfit of clothing.

Elanor was given a golden bracelet with her name engraved on it. Frodo’s namesake was given a brand new vest. Rose’s namesake, was given a basket to hold all her treasures (usually flowers she found and picked to give to her father or make into wreaths).

Merry and Pippin’s namesake were each given a carved wooden horse to play with. Goldilocks was given a rag doll that matched her hair. Hamfast was given a handful of mushrooms (Which he shared with his siblings). Daisy of course already received her present--the kitten, Star. Daisy had taken it upon herself to inform everyone that this was her new pet. “Mine, she’s mine! My Star.”

Star seemed unbothered by the announcement, though perhaps later it could be noted, that Star allowed Daisy to believe the kitten belonged to her. For as we all know, kittens are not owned by anyone, but own it‘s people. If anything, Star had decided to latch onto this Gamgee child and adopt it as its own rightful property.

‘Mine. My hobbit child.’

Last was Primrose, who was given three candy sticks which she happily licked away at until they were gone.

“Where did you get all these gifts, Sam?”

Sam only laughed and pointed in the direction of Arwen and Eowyn. Frodo laughed in return. He might have known.

***

With his birthday passed, Frodo settled on waiting and waiting, impatient now for the child‘s birth. Unsure when the event would happen, but knowing soon was driving him nearly to the end of his wits.

Then September passed and the days fell into October. As the leaves on the trees turned to vibrant colors and the air began to chill slightly, Frodo knew, as did everyone, that his day was indeed coming.

***

October the sixth did not sit well with Samwise Gamgee. He dreaded this day of all days. Ever since Frodo's return, Sam couldn't help but fear that the healing Frodo received in the West would not be enough. That the anniversary and the days Frodo had been struck down by the Witch-King of Angmar would return with the bringing of this day.

So much sadness and dread came with the approaching of this day and Sam was unsettled and did not sleep at all that night. In the morning, he refused to leave Frodo's side, insisting the children go out into the courtyard and play with Eowyn's sons.

But children are not so stupid or gullible. They had heard many times the story of Frodo Baggins and each of them new why this day had set their father into a panic and frenzy. They did not wish to leave.

It was Eowyn that finally convinced them to go outside and play. “Soon winter will be upon us and going outside will be quite limited. Come now, I have a game I wish you to play. I want each of you to find me a golden or red leaf... come.”

Alone in the room, Sam fiddled and fussed around Frodo, until finally Frodo grabbed Sam's hand and pulled him to his body.

“Sam, hush. Fear not. I will not fall ill this day. My wounds are healed. I am well.”

Sam looked into Frodo's eyes and sighed. “That obvious?”

“Translucent,” Frodo replied back and then stopped. A pain shot through him and he gasped feeling a warm rush start to come down his legs.

Sam at once paled as the fear of the day came back to haunt him. It was happening. Frodo was going to get sick. It was all his fault, he... And then Frodo was smiling and looked at Sam with a flow of love in his voice.

“Oh Sam. Could you do me a favor and go down to the kitchen and get me a few pickled eggs and a mushroom or two... and some rolls and butter. Oh, and on your way back.--could you stop by the throne room and ask Aragorn to come and visit with me.”

Sam smiled, just starting to relax. The baby must have been kicking, that‘s all.

“Sure, I can do that. Although, Aragorn may be a bit busy this morning you know trying to--” He paused half way to the door and looked at Frodo questioningly. “Ahem, is this a regular, checking things over visit, or a just seeing how your doing visit or--” He paused to see Frodo clearly shaking his head, a smile all the while on his lips.

Sam made a dash for the door and started running when he got into the corridor. “STRIDER!!!!”

A voice called after him. “And the pickled eggs, Sam. Don't forget the pickled eggs.”

TBC

Aragorn arrived within minutes and a quick examination revealed that Frodo indeed was going into labor. Immediately, Aragorn called for the Healer Graham.

Although it was highly unusual, Aragorn allowed Arwen and Sam to remain inside the room. Neither wanted to leave Frodo without the comfort of knowing they were close. In the end, Aragorn figured the presence of Arwen and Sam would be more beneficial.

A small crowd had already gathered outside in the hall. While helping Graham and a few servants fetch some necessary things from his quarters, Aragorn smiled at the audience to reassure all was going well. Merry, Pippin, Legolas, Gimli, Eowyn and Faramir. The children had already been sent off with Merry and Pippin's wives. Aragorn was just calling for some more blankets, when he saw that Ellrohir and Elladan had arrived. They had gone to Rivendell for a time but now were back, just in time for the coming of Frodo's child. It seemed everyone was excited and almost holding their breath for this special gift to be born.

Returning to Frodo, Aragorn saw the labor pains had started and Frodo was trying his best not to scream, though it was obvious he wanted to. “Let it happen, Frodo. This is normal.”

The hobbit only looked over at Sam, then back at Aragorn to communicate the reasons he would try not to scream. He did not wish to frighten Sam. Aragorn understood but he knew the pains would increase soon and whatever promises Frodo vowed would most likely be broken.

Taking a deep breath, Frodo felt another pain lance his stomach. He winced and tried to breathe even faster. It seemed to help, a little. He would not scream, he would not. Sam was already holding Frodo's hand and looking rather pale. If he screamed Sam would be terrified. Frodo then realized that he too was frightened. Must be calm, must be in control. Frodo felt another pain in his stomach that somehow also came from his back. Frodo lurched half off the bed and sobbed.

“Frodo! Strider, can't you give him something for the pain?” Sam clutched to his love and looked at Frodo and then at Aragorn in growing fear.

“Not at this time, Sam. Just hold onto Frodo.”

Sam did and watched as Arwen joined him, placing a cool cloth over Frodo's forehead. She smiled serenely down at Frodo. “The pain we suffer will fall away and we shall only remember the happiness of holding our child at last in our arms.”

Frodo felt another pain hit him and he felt tears starting to spill down his cheeks. Pain, so much pain. He felt as if he was being split in two. What had he been thinking? He should have listened to Eru and adopted a child instead. This was madness, pure madness. Only women should have babies. Josephine was right.

“Shhh, Frodo. Take a deep breath.”

Aragorn, with the help of the healer, folded back the blankets and began to examine the area where they were sure the baby would be coming. So far nothing was stirring.

“It seems your child is acting most hobbit like,” added Graham with a bit of humor in his voice. “Trying to decide if he or she wants to come or not. A hobbit can never be rushed it seems.”

Frodo winced as another pain hit him. His entire body felt like it was on fire. His back hurt, his stomach hurt, his bottom hurt. He felt dizzy and sick inside. Everything hurt. It was getting to be too much and when the next contraction hit, Frodo let out a scream.

***

Out in the hallway, all eyes stared at the door.

***

“It hurts, it hurts!” Frodo was no longer thinking about being brave. He was in pain and he was frightened now. “Make it stop!”

“It won't be long now, Frodo love. Hang in there.”

Sam didn't get to finish. Frodo swatted Sam's hand and angrily glared at his lover. “You! This is your fault! Don't you touch me!” Frodo cried as Sam tried to retake Frodo's hand. “You did this to me! What, what are... why is he touching me? I told him not to touch me! He is touching me!” Frodo yelled looking all around him in annoyance.

Aragorn watched this display and smiled, remembering how Arwen's labor was much the same. He looked to his wife and saw a cool smile on her lips.

“Frodo please... I love you.”

When the pain ebbed off a little, Frodo looked apologetically at Sam. Tears were already streaking down the poor hobbits face. His words must have hurt Sam more deeply then he thought. Why was he always saying hateful things to Sam?

“I--I'm sorry Sam. I don't know what came over me. Forgive me.” Frodo retook his hand and squeezed it softly to reassure him.

Just as Sam was starting to feel comforted, another pain shot through Frodo and with a gasp, Frodo whimpered. He could feel his insides turning and being ripped apart. The baby was coming but Frodo was sure now he was not going to survive this.

He wished for Gandalf, wished with all his heart the wizard was here beside him. He didn't want to die. Not like this. Not without holding his baby.

“Something's not right,” whispered the healer. Aragorn shushed the man and began to check things himself. Blood was coming from Frodo. The slit area had opened but there was no sign of the baby's head. Aragorn soon realized to his horror that, though the baby was hobbit and even smaller than human babies, Frodo was not open enough. The baby was pushing but didn’t have enough room to come out.

He was going to have to cut. Memories of Armienas filled his mind and Aragorn called for more hot water. Sam was unsure what to do. He held Frodo's hand tightly in his own all the while looking to Aragorn. He could see real fear in Strider's eyes. Something wasn't right.

“Please, please let Frodo be all right.”

“Frodo--”

Hearing his name, Frodo looked up to see Aragorn looking down at him. Frodo could see it was serious.

“Aragorn?”

“Your body prepared itself, but not enough. I'll have to cut.”

Frodo sighed and realized what this meant. He swallowed and nodded. Then Frodo turned to Sam and allowed the tears to fall as all his fears came to life. “Sam... what ever happens, take care of our babe. I love you. I will never regret the time we had together.”

Sam shook his head and visions of Rosie returned. The baby was coming, blood, so much blood. “No. Please, Frodo... please.”

“Stay with us, Frodo. I will use the kings foil now. It will help.”

The pain ripped through him again. Frodo held back the scream. He could see Aragorn returning and in his hand, he held a sharp instrument. A knife. Another hand reached out and Frodo glanced up to see Arwen. She was looking frightened yet hopeful.

Aragorn pulled the kings foil out of his pouch and quickly threw it into the boiling water. The air around them filled with the smell of the weed. The tension seemed to dissipate. Warmth filled Frodo and the pain suddenly seemed further away.

Everything would be all right. His baby would live and that was all that was important to him. Opening his eyes, Frodo thought he saw a white figure standing just over Aragorn's shoulder. A familiar form. Frodo tried to reach out to him but Sam and Arwen held his hands in place.

Gandalf! He was here. Oh, everything would be fine now. A smile graced the wizards face and then suddenly Frodo felt pain ripping at him from all sides. He cried out again and again as the pain seemed to only continue this time. It would not stop, it would never stop.

Aragorn was cutting and the baby was pushing and--Frodo felt the room spin and then go dark.

***

Awareness slowly came back to him. Frodo felt strange. Empty and numb all at the same time. So he lived. He had lived. The room was dark at first until he blinked several times and saw several candles. He could hear low murmurs but could not make out what was being said.

Sam's worried and tear filled face came into view. “Frodo, my love, everything is going to be fine now. Just take little breaths.”

He was alive. He was still alive. The baby? Frodo realized he did not hear any crying. Terror and sadness filled ever part of his being. The baby was dead then. All was lost. Frodo wanted to weep, curl into a ball and die. To die and be with his baby.

“Frodo,” someone called. Frodo opened his eyes and saw Arwen coming towards him.

She was holding something in her arms, a very small wrapped up bundle. Her eyes were shining like stars and a smile graced her lips as she lowered the object into his arms. “Here you are. All is well, Frodo. Look and see what you have brought into this world.”

Frodo looked down at the bundle and saw a very small and very red baby staring up at him. Blue eyes and golden curls. His baby, alive. It's small fingers flexed, reaching out and then returning to its face. It made a soft gurgle and then seemed to drift off to sleep. It had been a long day as far as he was concerned.

Aragorn was now standing beside Arwen and confirmed it all. “It's a boy. A beautiful baby boy. Born on a day that was once filled with dread, now will be of great joy.”

Frodo looked to Sam and smiled. Sam returned the smile with one of his own, before planting a gentle kiss on Frodo's lips. “Our son.”

There would be time enough to talk about how close Frodo had come to dieing that day. How the bleeding wouldn't stop, as Aragorn raced against time, re-stitching the cut he had made. Then, by some miracle, an odd thing happened. Just as everyone was about to give up hope, a wind seemed to enter the room. The candles seemed to spark brightly and for a moment, just a moment, a presence was felt. A presence that felt just like Gandalf's. A wave of peace filled everyone and then-- The bleeding stopped and Frodo's breathing, which had seemed obstructed, evened out.

Aragorn was then holding the baby and it was over. They would talk about it this strange miracle later. For now, it was time to rejoice.

The healer allowed the others to enter the room. And they all filed around the bed and looked on in joy to see Frodo and Sam's precious bundle had arrived. It was a boy and it had the eyes of its birth father and the hair of his paternal father.

“Well, I guess he is all hobbit after all,” replied Pippin.

Laughing, Frodo looked at his baby and smiled down at him. “He is, isn't he? Look at him. So precious and so beautiful. So small. So little. Ohh, you kicked so hard inside me, didn't you? I can see why. Look at those hobbit feet. Oh, he has your hair Sam.”

“Your eyes, Frodo.”

“Your nose, Sam.”

“Your lips. He'll be able to perform many good pouts with those lips.”

Frodo wept in joy.

“So, what are you going to name him? Bundle? Bingo? Bungo?” asked Pippin.

Frodo only looked at Sam and smiled. Sam nodded and at the same time they chorused, “Bilbo.”

Frodo then added, “Bilbo Baggins Gamgee. Welcome, Bilbo. I hope you will be very happy, with not one but two fathers and a lot of older siblings who are going to spoil you. Not including lots of Uncles and Aunts.”

The baby opened his eyes and made another low gurgle as if confirming that he would be fine with that. Frodo pulled Bilbo closer against his chest and laid a kiss on his forehead. “Oh, now life, my life, is healed. Completely healed.”

***

As the days followed, Aragorn was able to get a wet nurse for Bilbo, although the hungry little rascal soon required two wet nurses. It seemed the baby hobbit wanted all six meals and snacks starting right away. Estella who was feeding Rory, soon offered her own services. It seemed Rory was not as hungry as her other baby Eowyn was and had extra milk to give.

At first, Frodo was a little resentful and upset that he could not provide for his own baby's feeding, but that feeling soon vanished when he realized that Estella was not trying to take Bilbo from him but only trying to help. It also freed Frodo to catch up on sleep he had lost the last few months while carrying his son.

It was about three weeks later that Frodo was finally able to get out of bed. And a week later, Aragorn finally agreed that Frodo was ready to go to Ithilien and see his smial. At long last, Frodo began to pack up his belongings. He was just about finished when Aragorn came walking into the room.

For a moment, Frodo was worried that Aragorn was there to change his mind. But then Frodo saw something else in his King's eyes. “Strider--I am not even a days journey away from the city. This is not goodbye. Not this time.”

Aragorn nodded and then got down on his knees and hugged Frodo tightly. “I know, it is just... I got use to you being here. All the time.”

Frodo laughed lightly and then, pulling away a little, Frodo gave Aragorn a light kiss on the cheek before hugging him close. “All the better to come and visit me and your godchild. You have been working very hard, your majesty. Perhaps in a week or two you can inform Faramir he can take up his duty as Steward and you and your lady and children can take a much needed holiday.”

Aragorn smiled. “Deal.”

***

Arriving at the Smial, Sam sent the children and Bilbo off with Estella and Di. For the first time, Frodo was going to enter his new home, their future home, and he wanted this moment to be spent just the two of them.

If anything was amiss though, he informed Frodo to just tell him and he would make the changes at once. Frodo only held Sam's hand and slowly began to the climb up to their hobbit home.

The door was painted blue. Though winter was coming, autumn was a lovely time as well, and all around him were colorful leaves and trees that seemed on fire. It was just flawless. The outside just seemed to scream 'welcome home.'

Opening the door, Frodo entered the smial to first see a foyer room. The floor was wooden in the hall with coat racks and benches to dry off. A small rug was just placed before the entrance doorway, to dry off any muddy or wet feet. A table was also placed by the doorway. On it was several brushes and towels to cater to visitors arrivals. The walls were also wooden but with a lighter shine then at Bag End. There was also a window that gave the view of the City of Osgiliath.

Allowing Sam to lead the way, Frodo followed with his eyes, glancing and taking everything in. The kitchen was to the left. It was quite spacious and twice the size of Bag End's.

The walls inside were also higher, allowing taller folk to feel less cramped. With the help of Gimli's knowledge of plumbing, they had running water. Unlike many other smials where they required to fetch water from a nearby well, Frodo only had to use a pump at the sink to get the water he needed.

A pantry was further back in the kitchen and was already well supplied.

“In Ithilien, they have a splendid market place and I made friends with the butcher, Gregory, and he said he would send his son every two weeks in his wagon to restock our supplies.”

The kitchen table was wondrous. It was made of some cedar pine with matching chairs that were all sized to Hobbits. In the center of the table was a basket of fruit and a vase with flowers. A nearby window also gave the view of Osgilith and the greeting of the afternoon sunlight.

Entering the Dinning hall, Frodo was over taken by the size and the many tables. They were also made of cedar, but of a darker wood. The floor was completely carpeted with a design of mountains and skies.

The library was already stocked with many books, all neatly placed on shelves and in order.

“Legolas and the twins helped with setting it up. I didn't have Merry and Pippin bring all of the books from Bag end but I did have them bring a few.”

Frodo gasped when he saw the red book sitting neatly on the table by two glider chairs. Sam paused, suddenly looking worried.

“I wasn't sure if you wanted--”

Frodo idly flipped through the pages and then hearing the fear in Sam's voice, Frodo looked up and smiled. “Yes Sam. I do. Don't worry, I don't have many nightmares over the past anymore. The past is the past and it has no hold over me.”

Relaxing, Sam led Frodo to the living rooms. The fireplace was what Frodo decided was his favorite spot. For above the red bricked mantel stood his and Sam's parents portraits. It was breathtaking and Frodo shed a few more tears at the warm sight.

Finally Sam led Frodo to the children's bedrooms. They all were designed with each of Sam's children's likes and personal favorite things.

Elanor's room was filled with her name's flower painted on the walls. Frodo's namesake's walls were that of a garden. It seemed young Frodo was following his father Samwise's footsteps and had a knack and love for gardens.

The nursery for Primrose was set with lots of birds with plenty of rag dolls and toys to amuse her.

It was, however, Bilbo's nursery that had Frodo gasp in surprise and delight. All over the walls were the colors and design of the shire. Even Bag End's door and garden had been brought to life. All in the hopes, as the years went by, Bilbo would know the Shire as it once was to his parents.

“Sam!” He couldn't believe it. It was so overwhelming. And yet, just right. Next to a window that gave the view of the barn and pond, Legolas' wind chimes were dangling and the soft blow of the wind had the sound of bells ringing. It would be the one sound that would lull their baby to sleep every night.

“There is more,” replied Sam.

Sam had added a guest bedroom as well as several bathing rooms. With the abundance of children in the smial, Sam didn't want to have to contend with to much squabbling.

The last room he saved to show Frodo was their private bedroom. The floor, once again, was fully carpeted with designs of the sky and sea. The walls were plain although had various paintings on the wall and several tables were at the four corners with flowers and candles lighting the way. A large window was placed to the left and gave the view of the garden and towering mountains beyond.

The bed was huge and white, filled with large fluffy pillows and pure luxury. It would be big enough if any wee ones should find their way (and convince their parents) to let them in on a sleepless night.

A fireplace was placed on the other side and next to it was a bookshelf and two more chairs with throw blankets and more pillows. It was beyond perfect. Frodo let the tears fall, unwilling to stop a single one.

“Frodo?” Mistaking Frodo's tears and concerned that something was wrong, he quickly wrapped his lover into his arms. “Oh me dear, what's wrong? Tell me and your Sam will fix it right away.”

Frodo only shook his head and kissed Sam on the lips. “Nothing, nothing is wrong. Oh, Sam, can you not see? These are tears of joy. This is beautiful, fantastic... perfect. You couldn't have done better and I wouldn't have wanted you too. Don't change anything. I love it all. Oh Sam!”

Frodo pulled Sam towards him and somehow they both ended up on the bed.

Sam laughed. “Strider said--”

“What did Strider say?”

Sam shrugged. “He said—well, we shouldn't, ahem... you know, for at least a month or two. Let you heal.”

Frodo laughed and shook his head, already taking his shirt off and pushing his very hard arousal against Sam's leg. “I am healed Sam. Healed and whole. Now--make me complete.”

As usual, Sam could never say no, not to his Frodo.

***

A week later, Aragorn and Arwen arrived for their holiday and for the next few weeks, the entire clan of the fellowship, the twins and the children, enjoyed the blissfulness and the joys of country life.

Aragorn had to admit that escaping the city and being back in the wild had him missing the simple days of when he was just a ranger. The days were often spent eating, story telling and just basking in the happiness of not only being alive but being together.

Eventually, Aragorn returned to the city, though Arwen lingered for a few more days before joining Aragorn. But at least once a month (Usually three days), Aragorn and Arwen found escape to visit Ithilien.

Faramir and Eowyn settled back in their own home in the city of Ithilien and nearly every day Eowyn, with the children, found a reason to come for tea or simply visit to see how Frodo faired with his baby.

Frodo himself found the role he was now filling as mother and parent to Bilbo and Sam's children an easy role. He found after setting up a routine (and schedule, thanks to Estella and Di) he had free time in the afternoon to enjoy tea with Eowyn and read a little. He also found that when things got to be too much, that Estella and Di were always willing to take over and handle the ‘little ones.’

Sam had taken on the role of not only gardener but also helping the city of Ithilien and Faramir in rebuilding a special area that would be fit for children to play.

“Children need a place where they can freely play and not be getting under foot.”

Sam, and when Frodo could, even helped with the new school. As it happened, Sam's four oldest children were ready to join the other (human) children and rather quickly made friends.

As Autumn soon went and the first of winter came, Frodo took to keeping the children mostly in doors. Eowyn didn't come as often but a letter was often dropped by with him replying.

Everything and everyone seemed to be taking in the new life with stride and contentment. The resentment that Frodo waited and expected to come from the Sam and Rosie's children never came. Frodo was surprised how easy life had now become. Peaceful, a bit loud sometimes, with babies crying and a few small skirmishes coming from the children. But for the most part, all was serene.

***

Frodo held Bilbo in his arms and stared outside of the window to see the snowfall was coming down lightly.

Tomorrow the whole area would be covered with a white blanket of snow. Winter indeed had come but instead of feeling cold and depressing, as Frodo usually associated with the war and the loss of the ring, it seemed more tranquil and scenic.

Sam was beside him, holding Primrose and Daisy in his arms and telling them the story of Frodo and the ring. Star was sleeping curled up next to the fire, pleased in her new home. She seemed not to miss the confines of the citadel and came to love the indoor smial. It was her home now and she would never again be moved. She would guard this home and its occupants for the rest of her life. With a full stomach from lunch provided by her Master Frodo and snacks from the many children, she purred in contentment.

“And don't forget Samwise the brave,” replied Frodo as Sam told how brave Frodo was in taking the dark lords ring to Mordor, continuing to rock Bilbo in his arms. “Frodo wouldn't have gotten far without Sam,” said Frodo.

The children settled down for a nap, and after Frodo put Bilbo into his crib, he found Sam staring out the window, watching the snow falling to the earth. Placing his arms around Sam's waist, Frodo laid his head on Sam's shoulder. “Sam?”

“I was just thinking... how strange life turned out to be for us. Once I thought it was just one long tragic tale. Now--”

Frodo pulled Sam around, moved his arms more tightly around Sam and laid his head on his lover's chest.

“Oh Sam. My dear Sam.”

“Are you happy Frodo? Are you?”

Frodo chuckled and met Sam's eyes. Seeing the hidden fear within them, Frodo dropped his smile and spoke not only seriously, but with all the love that he felt in his heart. “Sam, home is where your heart is. My home was always with you, because you had my heart. I am happy and complete and whole. I have everything now and more than I ever dreamed. Nothing more could I ever desire accept perhaps one thing--”

Sam raised an eyebrow. “What would that be my love?”

“To see the Shire and Bag End, one more time.”

7

Winter passed, spring came once more and with it the presence of Celeborn, for the early months of Spring Arwen once again found laughter and solace in the presence of her elven kin.

Frodo too found great happiness taking walks with the elvish Lord, who fancied many a tale about his beloved wife Galadriel. It was on one day, nearing the summer, that Celeborn and Frodo were walking along the pond that the elvish lord spoke.

“I intend to join my wife in the West before the fall comes again to season.”

“Arwen will be very sad to see you depart from these lands.”

“She has Aragorn, her brothers and many friends--you especially.”

“None of that replaces the love of a parent or a parental figure.”

Celeborn turned to Frodo and smiled sadly at the young hobbit. “I long for rest. Most of Lothlorien is empty now, save but a few and they too have made many decisions. A few have decided to share my daughters fate and have even agreed to make a life near Ithilien. This land is fertile and full of vibrant life once again. The darkness has been cast away.”

Finding a large boulder, Celeborn sat down upon it and looked all around the valley.

“I am sorry you are going.”

“So am I. My heart is heavy now, for I have come to love Middle-Earth and I shall miss her deeply. Unlike you, I cannot be given the grace of someday returning. Once I leave these shores, I shall not return.”

“Where shall you go from here?”

“I will stay until the end of summer, and then I shall journey to Rivendell for a time. Then, when the wind grows cold and I hear the distant call--I shall make my way to the havens.”

For a long time there was only silence and the sounds of nature surrounding them. Crickets, horses, buzzing flies and songbirds.

“You have been through much, Frodo Baggins. I see, however, your future before me. Still much to be done, many more adventures and tales to be told.”

Frodo laughed. “Adventures? No, thank you. I have had my fill. I shall enjoy the peace and quiet of Ithilien and my homestead. The raising of Rose's children and my little Bilbo is all that I need.”

“Perhaps for you, but I see others still needing a bit of sunlight. Your sunlight. Do not turn them away...”

Frodo looked at Celeborn in confusion, not understanding his meaning. Elves can be filled with such riddles and can be quite exasperating. Celeborn rose and offered his hand. Frodo took it.

“What else do you see in my future?”

“Many things. I see you making a journey back to the Shire. Soon. You will stay throughout the winter and then return here to Ithilien. You won't be back to the Shire for a long time afterwards. I see also another light coming.”

Frodo blinked. “Another light?” Frodo looked at his stomach and blanched. “Oh no. No please.”

Celeborn laughed. “Not for a long time yet. Grace of time has been bestowed upon you, little one, and I see years of simple joy with all that you have now. I see also one last thing. I see you returning to the shores of the sea.”

Frodo swallowed. “No. I shall not return to the West. I will not leave my friends behind again Your vision is wrong, my Lord Celeborn.”

Celeborn only smiled. “My vision is quite clear. You will leave these shores--not alone. You will be accompanied with those also weary of life. Weary and unwilling to be left behind. A passage will be made for them.”

Frodo shrugged. “I do not understand.”

“Don't. Just know that much has been moved and done for your happiness. Do not ask why, just accept it.”

And Frodo did.

***

Two weeks later, an excited Peregrin Took announced the birth of his second child, a healthy son. He was named Faramir.

“Did I name him properly, cousin Frodo?” Asked Pip.

Frodo grinned as he held Bilbo in his arms. “A most fitting name, Pip. Most fitting.”

***

When summer came, Frodo and Sam packed much of their belongings and, with Merry and Pip, along with their wives and children, they bade a fond goodbye to all their friends. With three stacked wagons, they made their way on to the next adventure. To return home to the shire.

Frodo waved to Aragorn and Arwen and smiled. “This is not goodbye, my friends! We will return in the spring!”

Aragorn nodded and whispered softly, more to himself then to anyone, “Not goodbye.”

Arwen took her husbands hand into her own and nuzzled it against her cheek. “They will return next spring. I can feel it.”

***

They had arrived and Sam allowed the children to run off and visit Grandma. Sam saw Mrs. Cotton standing by the gate waving. He waved to her and then turned away to stare at the entrance to Bag End. Frodo had gone inside a few minutes ago and Sam was contemplating whether he should follow or not.

The sound of happy laughter caused him to look down. Primrose and baby Bilbo were on the ground next to the garden. Prim was blowing bubbles, while Bilbo giggled and clapped in delight. Perhaps he could wait a few more minutes.

***

Frodo walked slowly from room to room. So many memories fell tumbling through his mind.

Frodo picked up several objects on tables and stands only to put them back. He remained inside the den, Bilbo's den for quite awhile. When he finally came out, he saw Sam waiting with the two youngest children in the kitchen. The smell of tea and homemade bread filled his senses.

“Have some tea, Frodo. The homemade bread was just brought up from my Gaffer’s smial by my sister Marigold.”

Frodo took a bite and eagerly drank down the tea. After the snack, Frodo pulled Bilbo into his arms and rocked his child to sleep. He was already eight months old, growing quite fast. So young and yet he seemed to have quite the personality. Quiet at times and other times quite loud. He was friendly and yet shy. He also seemed to be quite the thinker. Hard, serious thinking. He was the most serious of babies.

But then, when Frodo worried that the child seemed too serious, one of the children or Sam would do something and Bilbo would fill a room with his giggles.

“He is growing so fast, Sam. So fast.” As of yet, he hadn't started speaking, other than the usual baby talk.

Currently, Bilbo was making that nonsense talk that only babies understood and then he would stop as if thinking about what he spoke and then make a loud chuckle. A joke that he would never reveal.

“How does it feel to be home?” asked Sam, quite out of the blue.

Frodo thought about what he said and after a few moments Frodo confirmed what Sam already knew. “I thought I would break down from all the memories of this place. So many happy memories. But with Bilbo gone--that is all Bag End has become to me. Just a place from my past. My home is with you now. The children. Our friends. Do not mistake what I say. I still have a great fondness for Bag End and I always will. However--I am happy living in Ithilien. Our home. Built by your hands for me--for our family.”

Sam grinned and took Bilbo into his arms and then placed him back into his basket. Primrose moved towards Frodo and was quickly snatched up into the Hobbit's arms. Prim giggled as Frodo put kisses all over her face.

“Is this my little Prim? Hmm? My little Prim?”

“Unc Fro, Unc Fro!” she cooed and then settled on Frodo's lap.

“Are you alright, Frodo?” asked Sam.

Frodo replied by giving Sam a quick peck on the cheek. “Very. Life is wonderful Sam and it... it feels wonderful to be alive, here with you and with the children. Yes. Oh yes, everything is very well.”

***

A few weeks later, Frodo made a special journey to Brandyhall. The children remained at Bag End, and much to Sam's great deal of blustering, Sam too remained behind. Frodo needed to visit his old relations and make one important stop.

Frodo cleaned the entire area of weeds and grass, then placed the roses, lilacs, daisies and sunflowers on the graves.

“Hello mother, hello father. It has been a long time, hasn't it?” Frodo looked down at their stones. “I just came to say--to tell you--I am home now. I found my place. It took many years but I finally found my home and I am happy, beyond happy. I am complete, whole and healed. I just needed to tell you that. So you don't have to worry about me anymore. When you see him, tell Uncle Bilbo I love him and how much I loved being with him all through his long years.”

Sighing, Frodo closed his eyes and felt the wind blow all around him. Soft, warm and tender. The hair on the back of his neck lifted slightly, as if a hand reached underneath and smoothed the curls. Opening his eyes, Frodo felt warm, safe and loved. Most of all, he felt at peace.

***

Bilbo was approaching his first birthday. Leading up to this important event, Frodo had gathered everyone he knew in the Shire, from friends to family to come to Bag End and celebrate. As usual, in Baggins style, there was music, dancing, singing, presents and of course lots and lots of food. In the excitement, Bilbo had learned to sit up by himself and could crawl and wave. He was also eating like many other hobbit toddler, if not more and Frodo wanted to know where he put it all.

After the grand affair, Frodo set to giving Bilbo and Primrose a bath. As he dried off Bilbo and watched Primrose make bubbles in the tub, Frodo was taken back when Bilbo reached out and grabbed onto his hand. Bilbo seemed to be eyeing the missing finger. He looked at his hand and then at Frodo's and then made a sad sigh.

Then suddenly, Bilbo leaned forward and kissed Frodo's knuckle where the missing finger was before making his first word. “Ada!”

His first word was elvish and it was the word father. Frodo felt the tears rise inside of him, but this time of absolute joy. In the days that followed, Bilbo spoke his second word, Papa, which he called Sam.

***

As Yule and winter approached, a letter came from Minas Tirith. Frodo recognized the handwriting as Arwen’s and quickly opened it by the fire place as the children slept.

It seemed Arwen was once again with child, Legolas and Gimli had settled near Ithilien and it seemed a gathering of several elves from Mirkwood and Lothlorien had decided to make a home there.

Aragorn was of course missing his favorite hobbits, and Eowyn and Faramir wanted to reassure them that Star was quite safe and enjoying the company of her brother, Lad.

All was well.

Setting the letter down, Frodo handed it to Sam as he took Bilbo into his arms. After reading it, Sam grinned. “Ellrohir and Elladan want us to stop by Rivendell before we return to Ithilien. Seems they found a few things Master Bilbo forgot to take with him.”

Frodo nodded. “I think a visit would be splendid. The children have never been to Rivendell. I will also be glad to see the twins. I am sure they are still having a hard time dealing with their grandfather leaving for the West a few months ago.”

Sam didn't disagree and set the letter down on the table. Taking up his knife, Sam continued to carve the wood in his hand, attempting to make some animals. But his mind seemed not to be focusing and made mistake after mistake.

By the third attempt and nearly clipping off one of his fingers, Frodo reached out to his lover.

“What is it, Sam?” Frodo asked, as Sam for the past few days seemed to be carrying a great deal of worry in his eyes. “You've been very quiet the past few days. Last night, you didn't sleep well.”

Sam shrugged and then feeling Frodo's hand on his shoulder squeeze gently, he looked up and decided to tell Frodo the truth. He would have to know sooner or later. “I have been looking over our finances.”

Frodo blinked. “Yes, what about them?”

“Even though Strider gave us all that land, and of course, with all the presents and furniture given for the homestead, I still have been having to use a great deal of coin to feed the little ones and getting clothes and... the harvest in our garden was enough to pay back the loan I took from Farmer Malick and perhaps a little left over to get some more seed for next year. But that was all.”

Frodo smiled. “I guess you are trying to tell me we are broke?”

Sam nodded. “The Estate for Bag End--land and all was enough to pay for its own upkeep but nothing more. So, I was thinking... Faramir has some available work in Ithilien. I could help the reconstruction of the city. It doesn't pay much, however it would be enough for a time and if we could sell Bag End and the land--”

Frodo was dead set against that notion. “No, absolutely not. We are not selling Bag End. It stays in the family. We talked about this. When Frodo lad and Elanor are adults, they will be handed over Bag End.”

“Frodo, love, we have to be realistic. We cannot keep two homesteads.”

“I am being realistic. I am not selling Bag End. Look, Sam, the solution is quiet simple. I will have to get a job.”

Sam balked at once. “No! You are not going to work, that ain't be proper for you as being a gentle hobbit and all. I can take care most of the finances and--”

Frodo shook his head and laughed. “Sam, I am no longer an invalid. I can help out. I could get a job at the school. I can also do book binding on the side.”

“What about the children? Who'd be minding them?”

“It is called Aunt Estella and Aunt Di.” Sam grumbled, but Frodo only smiled and kissed his frowning lips. “Let's not think about it anymore. Not right now. We can worry about tomorrow when it comes.”

Sam gave in but his heart remained quite heavy.

***

When Spring finally came, the Gamgee family packed their belongings. Merry and Pippin, with their wives, had already left a week before. They would not venture to Rivendell on this trip for they had decided instead to visit Rohan for a time before making their way to Ithilien.

Frodo with Sam and the children made their farewells to friends and family. Frodo informed everyone that it was not goodbye. They would return in a few years. Before long, Frodo sat on the wagon, one arm wrapped around Bilbo and the other around his Sam. Frodo was the first to start singing. Sam followed pursuit and before long, the entire clan was singing.

“The road goes ever on and on, down by the road where it began!”

***

The arrival in Rivendell a few weeks later brought a mixture of joy and sadness to Frodo. The Elvish land was almost completely empty, save but a few remaining elves, the twins included.

They were warmly greeted and after a hearty meal and settling the children into their beds, Frodo found himself summoned to the great hall. Upon arriving with Sam, Frodo saw Elladan and Ellrohir sitting at a table with a huge chest in the center. The trunk looked familiar.

When Frodo looked closer, he saw the initials on the front of the chest. BB.

“We were cleaning out some of the rooms last year, including the place where Master Bilbo was given to reside during my father's rein. He must have forgotten it when he left for the west with you.”

Frodo shook his head and smiled. “He forgot a lot of things. Thank you for letting me know about this!”

“I wonder what is in it?” asked Sam.

Frodo moved to open the trunk and shrugged. “Probably old maps, scrolls. Bilbo's inks and pens. Maybe a book or two.”

The twins smiled and watched as Frodo undid the lock and opened it. Frodo put his hand on his chest and gasped. Sam's eyes nearly popped out of his head.

“This can't be,” Frodo replied and looked to the twins. “It can't. Bilbo told me he gave all of it away--”

Elladan laughed. “Apparently not all of it.”

Sam put his hand inside and pulled out a handful of golden coins. All inside the trunk was coins and precious jewels. “Well I'll be.”

Frodo looked to the sky and thought of his Uncle and silently thanked him. It looked like their money troubles were over. This trunk would take care of them for the rest of their lives and even beyond.

***

As the wagon made it up the hill, Frodo could see the homestead. The four oldest children dashed out of the wagon as it slowed and ran for home.

Frodo sighed and, holding Bilbo and Primrose in his arms, he leaned his head against Sam's shoulder and smiled. “Well Sam?” asked Frodo.

Sam smiled and put one arm around Frodo and kissed his forehead before smiling and staring at the homestead in the distance. “Well, Frodo me dear, we're back.”

They were home.

The End!

Not truly the end, more stories and adventures will come. That’s a promise!