******The Shire******
It had been a hard four days of travel, but the Prancing Pony's beer more than made up for it. Their arrival at Bree had caused news: Shire hobbits travelling to Bree always did, since the notorious disappearance of 'Mister Underhill' all those years ago. Sighing in a satisfied way, Orlo leaned back and watched the inhabitants of the busy inn interestedly.
Dirty-looking men were muttering over something in the midst of another group of Men laughing raucously; Odo sat beside him, sipping his beer excitedly. Hardo had chosen to retire to his room, and to keep an eye on Brando. They had all decided he shouldn't be drinking at his age.
"So this is where Master Merry and Pippin sat all those years ago. And this is where they met the great King, as well. Funny that we should be here, and we that wewill be meeting the King too," thought Orlo.
He yawned widely and turned to his companion. "Odo, I think I'll have a nap now: its ages since I've slept properly. Good night!" He nodded, and trotted up the stairs. Hardo had chosen upstairs rooms: the hobbit rooms downstairs had been avoided as the chilling tale of the Black Riders had entered their minds as soon as the rooms were mentioned by the innkeeper. Opening the door, he fell into bed and was soon sound asleep.
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