A Gift

Youngest of his family, Pippin was accustomed to well-worn birthday tokens. He stared unbelievingly at the packet wrapped in yellow paper and red ribbons. "Is that really for me, Mr. Baggins?"

"Of course, my boy! It's my birthday, what else should I do but give presents?"

One fierce rip and Pippin clutched a bright sword and shield. They were tin, and the sword-tip was blunted; but they were still dwarf-make and fine weapons.

With a yell of challenge Pippin ran toward the mob of children under the Party Tree. "Look at me, Merry -- I'm the Bullroarer! Watch out, goblins!"

[for Hobbit Lass21, who asked for wee!Pippin]