By: Gladiator

“Oh Master Frodo, I would so dearly love to see elves again.” Sam clasped his hands, and rocked back and forth between his toes and heals. 

  “Elven singing under the stars is not to be missed this time of season,” he added, absolutely over bubbling with joy. 

  “We may see elves during our travels Sam, but many remain hidden after the pillaging at Rivendale,” replied Frodo.  “I wouldn’t be so cheerful any how Sam.” Frodo continued, “Gandalf warned of Dark Times ahead yet again....”

  “Hurry now,” he added, “take only what you can carry in a small pack.  We leave tonight.  It’s a good ways off to Amon Sul, and we should have been there by now...”

  “I wonder what the ol’ Gaffer would say if he knew I was going away again.”

  “He won’t be pleased Sam, that's for sure....”

  “At least I am thinking ahead this time, sir.” Frodo looked over to see Sam stuff a small coil of rope into his pack. 

  Suddenly they heard foot steeps outside the door and heavy breathing.  Frodo was alarmed, but Sam didn’t seem bothered, and went right to the door and opened it.  Two small shapes emerged into the candlelight.  Merry and Pippin stepped into the main room with their Elven cloaks drawn tightly about their heads. 

  “We weren’t about to let you go off alone Frodo.” Merry spoke out of breath.  “Sam told us all about the letter from Gandalf...  We’re coming with you.”

  “Well...  the letter didn’t specify going at it alone, and I would greatly welcome your company all the same.” Frodo smiled to his hobbit friends. 

  Final preparations were made, and quietly the fellowship slipped out under the Shadows of Hobbiton and began their journey...