“And where are you leading me?”
Merry, PIppin and Frodo had blind-folded Samwise after he had awoken at Cormallen. It was the 9th day of April in the Shire-reckoning. Sam had felt well after waking up. His master was acknowledged for what he had done, they had made a song of Frodo of the Nine Fingers and the Ring of Doom and he couldn’t be happier.
But the other hobbits had another surprise in mind which Sam was confused about. So after being led out of his beds for about twenty minutes, he was led to another part of Ithilien. When he was allowed to open his eyes, he saw that there was a picnic prepared with cake, wine, cured meats, cheese, and all of the Fellowship surrounding him.
“Happy belated birthday, Sam!” they all exclaimed.
Ah yes, he did forget– it was his birthday three days ago. Sam blushed and burst into tears.
“You all did not forget.”
“Of course we wouldn’t, Sam!” replied Frodo.
“We were wondering if you would wake up soon so we can do this for you,” said Merry.
“We are glad that you are on the mend,” said Gandalf.
“Legolas and I tried to secure all the best meats and the limited foods we got apportioned to the makeshift camp here. We can do more when we return to Minas Tirith,” said Gimli.
“Celebrating you is so important, being the hero of the Quest,” said Frodo as he led Sam to some wine.
“Celebrating you is important too, master,” replied Sam seriously.
“Thank you, but I would not be here without you,” said Frodo solemnly.
“Let’s toast to you both,” Aragorn said. “To the Ring-bearer and the birthday boy, Sam!”
And the Fellowship was glad for the company in Ithilien and for the time that they had together.
A/N - written for Samwise's birthday 2025