Disclaimer: Lord of the Rings belongs to J.R.R. Tolkien, etc. I am only borrowing his characters for this fanfiction and am making absolutely no profit whatsoever from them.

Credit: Thainsbook dot net (formerly tuckborough dot net).

Almost Bill the Pony

Half-starved of more than mere food, whipped within an inch of his bones, and shivering with fright, the pony painted a pitiful picture.

A ranger and three hobbits stood with the innkeeper, regarding him doubtfully. A fourth hobbit approached slowly, and he tried not to flinch. But apprehension turned to surprise when the hobbit raised a fist which flowered open, revealing a shiny green apple.

"Here you go, poor lad. Something for the long road ahead, eh?"

Tentatively dipping his neck, he gratefully accepted both the delicious treat and an ear scratch.

Bill-to-be had never been happier in his life.

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