Episode 9 Rivendell
The Elf and the Hobbit continued down the winding path into the valley. As the Last Homely House came into view Taurdir halted and proclaimed, ‘Behold, Imladris and the House of Elrond Halfelven!’
The view was spectacular, especially for the young Hobbit from the Brandywine River land of Buckland. But the excitement of seeing Elves and mountains, the latter from a distance, could only sustain so him so far. Piper was in need of sustenance and rest. Taurdir, his gracious guide, saw to it that these needs were met.
The next morning after breakfast Taurdir introduced Piper to someone who might be able to aid him in his quest to find the mythical Lost Mathom.
Piper shyly spoke to the aged former Master of Bag End, ‘You probably don’t remember me, Mister Bilbo, but…’
‘Of course I remember you, young Piper!’ interjected Bilbo, ‘You were always so inquisitive. What brings you to Rivendell, lad?’
‘I’m looking for the Lost Mathom! Have you heard of it?’ Piper asked.
‘The Lost Mathom? Can’t say that I have,’ replied Bilbo. ‘You know I contributed several mementos from my adventures to the Mathom-house in Michel Delving, although I reclaimed my mithril corslet before I journeyed here. It’s gone now, of course. I gave it to Frodo…’
‘Frodo is here?’ asked Piper. ‘I should very much like to see him.’
‘No, my boy, he has gone,’ answered Bilbo. ‘He left with…’, Bilbo’s voice trailed off. ‘Well, that’s all I should say. His mission is something of a secret. Don’t you tell anybody!’
‘The secret is safe with me, Mister Bilbo.’ Piper pantomimed setting a lock upon his lips.
‘You ought to try Elrond’s Library,’ suggested the old Hobbit. ‘A great wealth of knowledge is stored there.’
‘Thank you, Mister Bilbo!’ said the exhilarated Piper.
