[alaklondewen]

Ferd and Ama walked as quietly as possible among the few trees that ran along the Brandywine River. Being unsure of their location they were being careful not to disturb anything (or anyone) that might be lurking about. Each hobbit had a fair share of timber as they made their way back to their simple camp.

“Ama…” Ferd paused next to the last tree and turned to face her. “I’m worried about our food lasting, and I’m not sure what is edible around here.”

“I am too, Ferd.” Ama looked as concerned as Ferd felt. “We should wake the others and send them to find something to eat.” Ferd nodded in agreement.

The sun was now up and the morning had become absolutely beautiful, but Ferd was too hungry and troubled to notice. Taking Ama’s load of wood on top of his own, Ferd lugged the timber to the spot from the fire the night before, while Ama went over and began waking up the sleeping hobbits.

After several minutes of work, Ferd had a nice fire blazing, and he proudly turned to his companions who were still rubbing their eyes and complaining about how early it was. “Wake up, sleepy-heads!” His spirits were rising as he felt the warmth from the blaze.