This, my friend, is a pint!

For all things from the works of J.R.R. Tolkien!

[lsd-astronaut]

Any merry x hobbit reader headcannons? :~)

Hello! I'd be glad to write this for you, I love Merry with all my heart. I hope you like it!

Like and reblog!

Merry Brandybuck x Fem!Hobbit!Reader (Headcanons)

The two of you probably met during one of his visits to the Shire to see his cousin Frodo and to partake in the festivities in some spring festival. Originally having the goal to have fun and drink a lot, instead came back to his home with a flower in his front pocket, and both his heart and mind full with the thought of you.

He is very, very particular about his hair, and will go as far as to bite anyone who does so much as pull at a strand (Pippin has been the main victim of this side of Merry even though no one really believes him). You, however? The first time you were cuddling under a tree's shadow, with him lying on your lap, and your hands made their way to his soft curls... well, he was in paradise, if such thing truly exists in Middle Earth. From then on, you're the only person allowed to touch his hair. It is a privilege, y'know!

Didn't consider himself much of a cuddler before he met you; smothering hugs make him fairly uncomfortable and claustrophobic, and he likes to show this tough guy front, but if someone were to catch him with his nose nuzzling your neck, his arms circling your waist, and legs tangled with yours, well that is no one's business but his own, is it?

Can actually guess what you're going to say pretty well, but sometimes gets it wrong on purpose and will say something so egregious, you'll jokingly smack him over the head, making him fall down like you have just striken him. He is so prone to dramatics, but it is all done in good faith, and you know he only does it because he trusts you and is comfortable.

Regarding trusting you, he really does! And it all shows when he tells you about everything, both mundane and personal. If something is hurting him, he might keep it from you for some time as he doesn't want to "bother" you, as he says, but a stern look from you told him what he desperately needed to know. That you are in it for the long haul whether he likes it or not, and so, he doesn't have to be wary of telling you anything.

All in all, amazing boyfriend, you hit the jackpot with this hobbit!

I'm sorry this was so short, next time I would prefer you give me a more detailed request so I can make something closer to what you have in mind, but don't feel pressured, it's just a suggestion. Anyways, I hope you enjoy these general Merry headcanons! Thank you so much for your ask!

[meliabrandybuck]

111th

Bilbo’s 111th birthday party was in full swing. The third round of food was being served, and the… fourth or fifth round of ale was being served. The band recently hopped up on the stage and began performing, causing majority of the hobbits to pair off and enter the dancing green. Melian Gamgee sat next to her brother, admiring the music and the ambiance, paying special attention to her good friend Pippin playing his stringed instrument on the stage.

“Pippin’s gotten really good,” she observed, to which Frodo and Sam both agreed. Sam, however, wasn’t paying much attention to the musicians, but to the dancers (or, rather, dancer). His eyes never left Rosie Cotton since she entered the dancing green, and Frodo noticed. “Go on, Sam… ask Rosie for a dance,” Frodo said. “We both know he’s too shy to do that,” Melian commented, taking a sip of her ale before adding, “He needs a little push.” She stood up from her seat and pulled her brother up, dragging him over to the edge of the dancing green where he was swept up and away by Rosie herself.

Frodo, watching from afar, laughed as Melian returned to their table and sat where Sam once was. “Brilliant, Mel… I’m sure he’ll thank you later,” he said, picking up his ale and lifting it up towards her. “More like scold me later,” she retorted, following suit with her mug, toasting his before taking a sip. “Ah! Melian!!” she heard a familiar voice call out to her. She turned to see her good friend Merry Brandybuck walking in her direction. “Merry!” she replied.

Merry took a seat next to her and looked out at the crowd of dancers. “Do my eyes deceive me or is Sam dancing with Rosie Cotton?” he asked, bewildered. Frodo nodded. “Our dear Melian made sure of that,” he answered. Merry smiled over at Mel and said, “well, that’s not fair, is it?? That Sam is out there dancing while you’re just sitting on the sidelines!” “You know I’m not much of a dancer; I’d much rather watch!” Melian retorted. “Nonsense!” Merry said, hopping up from his seat.

He offered her his hand and politely asked, “Melian, would you dance with me?” Melian rolled her eyes. “Please don’t make me!!” she whined. “Oh, c’mon, Mel! It’s not everyday I ask a girl to dance with me!” he said. Come to think of it… girls were usually asking him to dance, and Melian never remembered him accepting any of their offers. “Fine,” Melian said with a sigh, taking his hand as he stood her up and dragged her to the dancing green.

He put one hand on her waist, while holding her hand with the other as he began to jig around energetically, leading her around the green. She jumped along with him, resting one hand on his shoulder, laughing at how silly she thought they must’ve looked. “See? Everyone around us is dancing too,” he pointed out, causing Melian to notice all the other hobbits dancing to the rhythm of the music. The song ended and everyone stopped and clapped to show their appreciation for the musicians hard at work.

Merry bowed politely, and Melian gave a little curtsey, though she felt awkward doing so. “Thanks for dancing with me, you were great,” he said, beaming at her. “Oh, not really… but I had fun, actually,” she said, smiling back. “So, do you want to dance again, then?” he asked, raising an eyebrow and offering her his hand again. “Don’t push it,” she replied, rolling her eyes and playfully pushing his hand away. She walked back over to where Sam was sitting, and he sat up taller upon seeing her. “There you are, Mel! I was wondering where you went off to!” he said as she took a seat across from him. She took a long sip of ale as he looked her over.

“Were you dancing?” he asked, surprisedly. “Yeah, just for one song though,” she replied, looking around at the party happenings nonchalantly. “Who did you dance with? Your face looks flushed,” he said. “I danced with Merry… but we were jumping around a lot, that’s why I’m so flushed,” she said, taking another sip of her ale. As she looked around, her eyes lingered for a moment on Merry, who was talking to some of his Took cousins. She couldn’t help but notice how sharp he looked in his waistcoat, with his hair perfectly curly and washed, and his face not covered in dirt like it often was when they went on adventures around the Shire. *Yep… it’s because of the dancing I feel so flushed* Melian lied to herself.

[meliabrandybuck]

Houses of Healing

Melian kept her hands working at the Houses of Healing. Thanks to her knowledge of gardening and herbs, she proved to be quite useful in helping treat the various soldiers being brought in from the battlefield… some with very grave injuries. Though the actual battle of Pelennor Fields was over, the work at the Houses was just beginning. Melian was dumping out another dirty bucket of water used to clean off wounds when a familiar face caught her attention, coming into the House.

It was Eomer, and in his arms was an armored figure with long blonde hair. Right behind him was Aragorn from Rohan, and in his arms was what looked like a child. As soon as Melian saw the curly brown hair on the small figure, she recognized him. “Merry!!” she exclaimed, dropping the bucket and running over to Aragorn. He lowered Merry onto one of the low beds, and Aragorn explained.

“They’re both gravely injured… they fought and defeated the Witch-king,” he said as he began stripping Merry of his armor, revealing his injured arm, black and cold from the Black Breath. Melian looked at the pale, lifeless body of Merry in shock. “Melian, I need you to get me a bundle of aethelas. And a fresh bowl of warm water, not too hot,” Aragorn instructed. She nodded, keeping a level head, despite her hands shaking slightly.

She continued to follow Aragorn’s instructions as he worked on both Merry and Eowyn, cleaning their other wounds and the dirt from their faces while Aragorn muttered a number of Elvish phrases to reverse the Black Breath. He finished up with Merry and wrapped his injured arm in a bandage. Melian kept her eyes fixed on Merry the whole time. Aragorn squatted so he was eye-level with her, placing a hand gently on her shoulder. “He’ll be alright, Melian… He just needs rest now… Stay by his side and keep talking to him. He’ll hear what you’re saying,” he said, reassuringly.

She nodded and sat down next to him while Aragorn went to continue Eowyn’s treatment. She took his uninjured hand in hers and studied it. It was rougher than it used to be. Scars on his knuckles and callouses on his palms, worn from the battle and the training that he had faced. “You stupid, brave hobbit,” she said quietly, now looking at his face, studying the bruises and scars there. His eyes were shut, and he did look peaceful, and less pale… then Melian realized she hadn’t been talking like Aragorn had instructed her.

“Do you remember the night of Mr. Bilbo’s party? When you asked me to dance with you? You know I’m not much of a dancer, but you still dragged me to the dance floor. Once we started dancing, I felt a lot more comfortable and had fun… You’ve always known how to make me feel comfortable, no matter what. I think it was that night that I began to realize how charming and kind and handsome you were, and why so many other girls in the Shire fancy you,” she began, holding his hand the whole time and blushing slightly.

“But then when we began our journey with Mr. Frodo, I began to notice things more… things I had always known, but… was different now… your organization, your quiet thinking, your love for adventure, your fascination with maps, your bravery, your protective nature over Pip and I… Please don’t die, Merry… I still need you… I- I love you,” she said, smiling smally. She used her free hand to stroke the curls from off his forehead and continued to gently stroke his hair as she thought about what to say next.

“Speaking of stupid, brave, hobbits… you should’ve seen the way Pippin spoke to the steward of Gondor when we first arrived at Minas Tirith…” she began, then proceeded to tell the entire lore of what had happened since their separation at Edoras. Time passed, and sleep began to overtake her as the sun was setting. Still sitting next to Merry’s bed, Melian slumped over, her head resting perpendicular to Merry’s as she drifted off to sleep, her hand never leaving his.

The following morning, as the sun was rising, Melian felt a stir under her hand, causing her to sit up sleepily and look at Merry. “Melly??” he said, barely over a whisper, opening his eyes and looking up at her. “Yes, I’m here, Merry!!” she said, trying to contain her excitement. All she wanted to do was give him a tight hug, but she refrained from fear of hurting him. “What’s the time?? I’m hungry…” he said. Melian chuckled and said, “Just rest, Mer… I’ll go get Aragorn.”

As she stood up from her seat, she was stopped by Merry reaching up and grabbing her arm weakly with his good hand. She stopped and turned around, looking down at him again. “I love you, too,” he said, looking up at her. “I was afraid I wouldn’t get to tell you,” he added. Melian smiled softly and bent down. She moved the locks of hair covering his forehead and kissed it. “I’ll be right back,” she said, finally going to get Aragorn. Merry could feel the warmth from the kiss on his forehead and started to feel better already.

[sainthenbane-deactivated2026020]

Pippin and Merry at Amon Hen

[doomslugthedestroyer1]

the more I see photos of lotr film characters the more I realize that every man in the series is lowkey hot

[sainthenbane-deactivated2026020]

[dopaminetreasurehoard]

Meriadoc Brandybuck moments in the book that I wish we saw in the films

Merry solves the riddle of the ithildin door into Moria.

He was quick on the uptake in most situations, including when he anticipated Frodo's need to leave the Shire due to something involving Bilbo's ring.

In Rivendell, he studies maps to plot their journey.

Before the quest, he took charge of the chaotic distribution of Bilbo's gifts after he left for Rivendell, including handling the infamous Sackville-Bagginses.

He was quick-witted.

I've always remembered Lobelia shouting at Frodo that he's not really a Baggins, but a Brandybuck. Frodo says, "How do you like that, Merry? That was an insult, if you like!"

Merry shoots back, "It was a compliment. And so, of course, not true."

His "gentle loyalty", arguably something each of the hobbits possess, but not as emphasized in the films in Merry's case. I love the passage in RotK that describes Merry's courage arising from empathy for Eowyn's plight:

"suddenly the slow-kindled courage of his race awoke. He clenched his hand. She should not die, so fair, so desperate! At least she should not die alone, unaided.”

All the main hobbits play a significant role of their own in the Scouring, but it struck me that Merry is really the one who takes the strongest leadership role to rally their fellow hobbits and challenging the ruffians.

And to all this I love that Dominic Monaghan added hints of his own cheeky, devil-may-care energy.

[dopaminetreasurehoard]

Buckland Headcanons

The Fallohide ancestry of the Brandybucks, plus their proximity to the wilds and the Old Forest, means that those of this background maintain a strong hunting tradition, more so than other high-born hobbit families. The Tooks are a close second, but in such different environments they are very different hunters, and Tooks might see a hunt with the Brandybucks as a way to measure their skills.

Bucklanders are highly adaptable and the least xenophobic, though they still have their prejudices about folk in other parts of the Shire. Brandybucks embraced Stoorish traditions and knowledge, which has made them the most comfortable with waterways than other regional hobbits. (This is a pretty likely supposition based on Tolkien's writing on the ancestral holbytla ethnic groups that would come together, so maybe less of a headcanon.)

Brandybucks, perhaps like aristocracy in rugged parts of northern England or Scotland, have a strong outdoorsman tradition generally for purely recreational purposes.

It's a Bucklander tween rite of passage to go into the Old Forest around dusk and then try to get back to safety before night falls. This is not sanctioned by the adults, and is something tweens dare one another to do to prove they've "got the stones".

Guards are set whenever the Hedge needs to be tended or mended from either side.

Headcanons about Merry in Buckland

Brandy Hall is a large, chaotic place due to the number of people living there at any given time. By the time Merry hits his twenties, he's dying for space, which is why he spends so much time either in Tookland or Hobbiton with his cousins.

Merry is among the eldest of a whole gaggle of cousins that live in Brandy Hall (Doderic, Ilberic, Celendine, Merimas, Mentha, and Merliot). As a result he has become old-headed and responsible.

Getting away with Pippin and Frodo allows him to act his age and let go of responsibility, which he does with zeal, unless called upon.

Merry is a natural flirt and he is looked upon with envy and admiration from his peers for this skill. It mostly comes down to the fact that he is not nervous about talking to lasses, who he's very comfortable around.

In a pinch, he can switch instantly from carefree, silly, and reckless to organized, quick, and practical.

Just thinking through ideas that might contribute to fic writing for before and after the quest. Might post some post-quest headcanons for Merry later!

[luna-writes-stuff]

The type of person my favorite Tolkien characters would fall for:

With Boromir, Éowyn, Éomer, Merry, Pippin, Fili, Kili, Thorin, Bilbo and Tauriel.

I know Tauriel technically isn’t a Tolkien character, but I love Evangeline Lily and I love red-haired women. Sue me.

——————————————————————————

Boromir:

An artist. It doesn’t matter what kind of artist; whether you practice in paintings, clay, paper, wood, writing etc., he would love an artist as a s/o. He is always quite busy himself, therefore he never found time and dedication to a hobby, so seeing his s/o being capable of - for example - making a small statue or candle holder from a block of clay would absolutely blow his mind. He would run around with it, showing it off to anyone. He does know when not to, though. If you don’t want others to see it, he would leave it as it is, but your art always passes through his eyes. He’d see you work and he’d see the finished product, even if it is not for him to see. He’s always intrigued by it. Make him something special that is for him personally, and you made this man’s whole week. Perhaps even his whole year. He’d put it up somewhere in his room for everyone’s eyes to see. The love this man holds for you and your art cannot be measured, honestly.

———

Éowyn:

Someone who is just as pigheaded and independent as she is, I believe. Obviously, there is no holding her back, but she can be insecure at times. She needs a s/o who will remind her of how strong she is and that she deserves anything this world has to offer. Someone who would follow her to the ends of Middle-Earth if it meant making her prove her worth. She has the constant need for validation as she grew up overlooked as Shieldmaiden instead of warrior, so she would love someone who would remind her of her worth and shower her in affections and compliments constantly. Even if it is not needed. She always appreciates it and cannot express her love for you whenever you show her how much she means to you.

———

Éomer:

An absolute sweetheart. Someone with a caring heart and good causes. Perhaps you have a soft spot for certain people or animals, but he’d love it. Someone who would remind him of the good left in the world. How something so dull can appear so colorful and prideful at times. A bit of sunshine after the rain. He has seen a lot of war and violence himself, so upon meeting someone who will remind him of the positive things in life, he would most likely fall in love at first sight. Give him a bouquet of flowers or a personally baked cake, and he’d melt on the spot. You’d always give him something temporary to show him that beautiful things might not be everlasting, but they can certainly cheer a person up. You’d give him a whole new perspective on life, and he loves it.

———

Merry:

A silent person, most likely introvert. I feel like Merry is fairly extroverted himself, but he’d love someone who is more to themselves. A person who does not parade around with an open mouth and open mind. Someone who holds back a bit more. Perhaps of shyness or purely the idea of not being comfortable around others. He would probably fall in love with a bookworm; someone who can spent the days in their room reading a good book without the need of socialization or fresh air. I can just imagine him coming home one day with you one the couch reading. He’d just wriggle his way into your arms, head on top of your chest and just stay like that while you keep your eyes on your book, you hand occasionally drifting down to roam through his hair. He’d love it.

———

Pippin:

Someone with great stories to tell. He’d love stories about literally anything. You could tell him about old fairytales or things that happened to you once, it doesn’t matter. Pippin loves a good story. You could just lay beside him at night and talk about a vacation you had years ago or a book you recently finished. He’s a sucker for it. I also feel like he would love someone who would join him in his occasional mischief, but also someone who would tone him down a bit and make sure he isn’t doing something too irresponsible. A bit like Merry, but with more control over brakes and consequences. But still someone who knows how to have fun, though. That’s the most important to him.

———

Fili:

Give. Him. A. Badass. Partner. Someone who can beat his ass in combat. Someone who always speaks their mind and isn’t afraid of the consequences. Fili would be absolutely smitten with a s/o like that. You don’t even need to draw a line at your actions, that is his job. He’d keep you in line whenever necessary. Speak up for what you believe in, fight for what you feel is right; it’s just the things that draws Fili to you. He needs someone who can just beat a pack of orcs in hand to hand combat without breaking a sweat. I know I gotta keep it pg, but this dwarf would instantly be turned on, there’s no way to sugarcoat it. He would love someone who could also think strategically, and create a clever solution to any plan, not necessarily thinking about what others want, but solely on that that needs to be achieved. He loves it. He would never shut up about it.

———

Kili:

A nerd. I am so sorry for the Tauriel and Kili shippers among us, but you cannot convince me that Kili would not be head over heels for someone who is incredibly smart or logical. Maybe you will tell him a bit about history, or an analysis about what his stupid actions might lead up to, but it’ll shut him up. Literal heart eyes. You could rant to him about anything about any subject you’d like. You can talk about geology for hours? He’d listen to it all. Invested in Mythology? He’d be in awe of everything you can info dump him about. He would probably brag about it in front of others about how smart his s/o is. He loves using it in arguments (which he will guaranteed get into. He does not know when to shut up.).

———

Thorin:

A musical and emphatic s/o. Thorin enjoys music more than he lets on, but if you can play any instrument (or even sing), his heart would be taken. He could listen to it for hours, occasionally even joining in - as he can sing and play harp, no I will never shut up about this. It does not even matter to him what genre it is. Whatever music it is you make, he will appreciate it and let you play in front of others if you give him permission to. Personally, I think he’d prefer someone who likes holding their music as something private, because it makes hearing it even more intimate, but if you are prepared to let others listen too, he would probably not shut up about it for the rest of the night. The empathic part speaks for itself; Thorin is not exactly good with emotions, so he needs someone who would tell him what to say and how to act at certain times to spare other’s feelings. It takes away the whole intimidating part about Thorin, that much is true, but a king needs to be decent and polite, and not rough and stern, correct?

———

Bilbo:

A decision maker. Bilbo is, obviously, a people pleaser. He needs someone who will help him out in decisions and conversations. Someone who has a mind set out on a single thing and will not wander from it. Someone with a strategic and steadfast mind. A smart, and quick thinker. He loves riddles, so if you were able to return one at the same time he’d asked you one, he’d be on cloud nine. Perhaps also someone he could just turn to whenever he’s frustrated or in trouble. Where he could say what he wants to without getting any response. He’d probably love an s/o who would walk up to a waiter to tell them he wanted ketchup with his fries.

———

Tauriel:

Someone who takes joy in the smaller things. Maybe a little daisy in a big field, or a simple bird bathing in a river bank, but those little things that make you happy, would make her absolutely adore you. When you always manage to find something positive or look on the brighter side of things, no matter how desperate they might look. Tauriel is a realistic thinker, and it often had negative influences, so with a s/o who could convince her to see the good side would be a great relief for her. A charming person who could cheer up anyone, or could make others laugh, even as things seem dark, would be amazing for her. She would even admire you for it. She loves that about you!

[autistook]

*pokes shoulder* Excuse me, mister Brandybuck. Sorry for bothering you, but who gave you the permission to look so fucking good?

[melianwrites]

Forehead kisses | Merry

Mornings in Brandyhall were usually calm. Good, filling breakfast and plenty of time to enjoy it with even more time to lounge around the house before having to leave for anything. But there were times where your husband would have to get up early to take care of urgent business which ment your tranquil mornings had to be canceled.

The title of Thain Merry inherited from his father didn't come with many responsibilities, being mostly just a formality in this point in history, but that did not mean he didn't have any duties, being one of the most important hobbits in the Shire. It mostly included overseeing preparations for some festivals and such, nothing too important but still it had to be done.

You dreaded those mornings. having to wake up to an empty space in your shared bed and having to leave for the kitchen with only a hope to see him before breakfast and maybe even before second breakfast. Dragging your feel across the halls your face lights up when you catch a glimps of him him at the dinning hall table. His unruly curls somewhat under control but his bow tie crucked and his vest wrinkled. He was eating quickly something that wasn't entirely peculiar for him. You leaned on the door frame, crossing your arms and smiling at him. The view before you reminded you that despite everything he has been through, despite all the time that has passed, he was still that same silly hobbit he was all those years ago when you first met.

He suddenly got up, almost throwing his plate, cup and utencils in the sink to be taken care of later, turning to face the entrance to the hall only to stop in his tracks for a moment once he noticed you standing there.

-Oh hi honey, I didn't see you there - he said walking up to you giving you a quick sqeeze before walking past you to the entrance hall. - sorry but i cannot linger any more, I might already be late - he was hastly putting on his coat and hat while you giggled lightly at him and walked up to him.

You reached up to him collar straightening it along with his bow tie. Then your hands lingered lower to smooth out his vest. Once you were done, your hands rested on his chest as you looked him in the eyes, a slight blush decorating his face which made you want to giggle again. You were married for so many years yet something as simple as standing a little too close to him could still fluster him.

-Just remember we're invited to the Tooks this afternoon, it's Faramirs birthday and I recon he'd be quite disappointed if his favourite uncle failed to show up - you said smoothing out his collar again - I bet Pippin is looking forward to it too, you too have been so busy lately I can hardly remember the last time you properly spent time with each other - you glanced at his face as it mirrored your small smile. You tilted your head giving him a sweet his on his fore head.

-Have a good day honey, I'll see you later? - you qirked your head at him in question. His smile spread widely across his face as he returned your gesture by kissing your forehead.

-Of course darling, I wouldn't dream of making you wait long for me.

[torchwood-99]

After the destruction of the ring, during his time in Cormallen, Eomer starts getting letters from nobility from all across the land, offering condolences for the death of his uncle, congratulations for his ascension to the throne, thanks for his country's support in the war, and offers of marriage for either himself, his sister, or both.

Eomer decides to enlist his knight, Meriadoc Brandybuck of Brandy Hall, to take over his correspondance for him, a task Merry takes to with zeal.

Unfortunately, no one bothered to tell Merry that all he needed to do was send some gracious lines back, acknowledging their congratulations and condolences on Eomer's behalf.

Merry knows how to write a letter properly, and if there's one thing hobbits are good for, it's getting chatty with strangers, even through writings.

He writes long, friendly letters, rambling on about the war, the House of Eorl, Rohan, horses, Bill the Pony, pipeweed, and everything else that pops into his head.

In response to the marriage proposals, well, he doesn't want anyone to waste their time, so while he writes back that "the Lady Eowyn is indeed most fair and valiant", he's actually pretty sure that she and Lord Faramir have a thing going on, or at least, Lord Faramir would like them to, and nothing has been announced but they did spend an awful lot of times holding hands and Ioreth; Ioreth one of the head healers at the Houses of Healing, very chatty but nice lady, her sister keeps a garden, said she saw Lord Faramir kissing her on the forehead on the battlements, and he gave her a mantle belonging to his mother, of course, it was rather cold, but when Merry's father courted his mother her gave her a brooch that had belonged to Merry's grandmother, who got it from her husband, who got it from an aunt, who got it in a card game (and on it goes), and as for Eomer King, well, he can't say for certain but he hasn't heard of anything going on there, so certainly, if they think Eomer and their daughters might take a fancy to each other, there could be no harm in them meeting.

And that's how Eomer ends up having daughters from every noble house thrown at him, and becomes the last man in the kingdom to find out about Eowyn and Faramir, and Merry ends up becoming pen pans with half the nobility in Middle Earth.

[meliabrandybuck]

A Conspiracy Begins

Melian skipped down the street of Bywater with her basket full of carrots and potatoes in hand. She had one more stop to the herb shop she had to make before going home and preparing her roast beef pot pie. Her beloved Merry Brandybuck was coming into Hobbiton as he often had to spend time with Melian and of course see his cousin Frodo while he was nearby. As she passed people, she gave a friendly “hullo!” to those she knew, and a small nod to those she didn’t.

She rounded the corner of one shop, and in doing so nearly ran into someone. “Oh, I’m sorry-” she said, apologizing to the stranger, only to realize it wasn’t a stranger after all. “Merry?? I thought you weren’t arriving until later this afternoon!” she said, happy to see him. He put his finger to his lips and gently pulled her around the corner next to him against the wall. “Shhhh,” he said, looking around the corner as he held her against the wall with one arm.

She remained quiet, trusting her Merry and knowing he would explain it all in due time. She noticed Frodo pass them, walking with several papers in hand. He walked into a nearby shop, not noticing the two young hobbits hiding from him around the corner. “Whew, I’m surprised he didn’t see us,” Merry said once they were in the clear. “So, you’re spying on Frodo? What for?” Melian observed. “I’ll give you a full explanation later…” Merry said, looking down at her basket. “Is there anything else you need to get?” he asked.

“I just need to stop by the herbs shop. I’m making a roast beef pot pie!” she said, smiling at him. “I was hoping so… Anything I need to bring?” he offered. Melian shook her head and said, “I don’t think so, I have just about everything I need.” He nodded. “I’ll be along in a little while. In time to give you a hand with the cooking,” he said. “With a thorough explanation, I hope,” Melian teased. He nodded and noticed Frodo coming out of the shop. “Of course!” he said, giving her a quick peck on the cheek before stealthily following behind Frodo.

Melian purchased the herbs and spices she needed before heading back to the Gamgee residence, where she began to peel the carrots and potatoes. As she was preparing all the things for their meal, she heard a knock on the door, and after gaining permission, in walked Merry with a little basket. “Hullo, Merry dear!” Melian said, affectionately. “Hullo, Melian,” he said, setting the basket down on the kitchen counter that she was working on.

“I told you that you didn’t need to bring anything!” Melian said, peeking in the basket. “I know… but I also know how much you love these shortbread cookies! I figured they would be a good addition to our afternoon tea,” Merry explained. “Thanks, Mer… but one meal at a time! Go get your hands washed so that you can help me with the chopping!” she replied, peeling the last potato. Merry followed instructions and found a knife and cutting board, joining Melian on the opposite side of the counter.

“So about me spying on Frodo,” Merry began as they worked, knowing he owed her a full explanation. “Remember when Mr. Bilbo left the Shire mysteriously? I mean… of course you do… but I have reason to believe that Frodo is planning on leaving the Shire also,” Merry began. Melian listened intently as she rolled out the dough to the pie and Merry chopped the veggies. “He’s been acting so queer since Mr. Bilbo’s leaving, so I’ve been paying close attention. As I watched him today, he was getting some appraisals on how much it would be to sell Bag End,” he said.

“Sell Bag End?? If anyone but you were telling me this, I wouldn’t believe them!” Melian said, with raised eyebrows. “He’s been hinting at it… which is why I followed him today, and his actions today seem to confirm my suspicions. I spotted him the other week at Buckland, eyeing a house over at Crickhollow, but why would he want to sell Bag End and move towards the outskirts of the Shire if not for the ultimate purpose of leaving?” Merry said.

Melian pondered on his words for a bit, then spoke up and asked, “so you think Frodo means to go after Mr. Bilbo?” Merry shrugged. “Possibly… I haven’t discovered the whole why yet. From what I can tell, he now has the Ring that belonged to Mr. Bilbo, so I wonder how that may factor into it,” he replied, now passing Melian the chopped vegetables. “Hmmm,” Melian said, thoughtfully. The pair continued to work in a thoughtful silence, until the pie was finally put into the hot oven.

“You know, I may have a way for us to figure out more…” Melian said, causing Merry’s ears to perk up. “We can set my dear brother up to listening more intently when working at Bag End,” she suggested. “That’s brilliant, Mel! Let’s pull him into this conspiracy! And Pippin too!” Merry said, excitedly. “Pull me into what???” a voice said from the open kitchen window, causing the two hobbits to look over and see the head of Pippin peering in. “How long have you been there??” Melian asked. “Not long enough, it appears… I need a full explanation of what I’m getting into!” Pippin said.

[autistook]

Billy Boyd and Dom Monaghan, the Two Towers, Cast Commentary

[embracetheshipping]

I am never gonna watch the aftermath of Isengard scene the same way ever again

[meliabrandybuck]

Apple Pie

Sam, Merry, Pippin, and Melian go on a little apple picking adventure.

“Are you sure there were apple trees this way??” Sam asked as he trudged along behind Melian, Pippin, and Merry. “Yes, of course! Just over the crest of this hill!” Melian replied, with her hands on her hips as she stopped to wait for her brother. The four hobbits had met in Bywater at the crack of dawn to venture out to the outskirts of the Old Forest… all in the name of picking some fresh apples. “I just don’t know why we have to travel all this way to pick some apples that we could’ve easily bought in the Hobbiton market just down the road,” Sam complained as he sat down on a log to catch his breath.

“Because the journey is part of the fun!! C’mon now, we’re nearly there!” Merry said, reaching under Sam’s arm and pulling him up from his seat. Sam begrudgingly stood up and continued up the hill. “Besides, if Gaffer knew you were coming all this way for silly adventures, I’m not sure if he’d be too pleased… trust a Brandybuck and a Took,” he said under his breath. “I think Gaffer will indeed be pleased with baskets full of apples!” Melian replied. “To tell you the truth, Mel didn’t want us to drag you along, afraid it would be too ‘adventurous’ for you,” Merry explained.

“Yes, but we figured we needed another body to help us carry more apples back!!” Pippin added with a chuckle. “Ah! Here we are!” he then said as they approached the top of the hill. Right at the top of what felt like a mountain was a number of apple trees. There was an array of bright crimson apples, shiny green apples, and golden apples. Sam looked up at them wide-eyed, as if he had never seen such beautiful apples. “Well, I’ll be…” he said to himself.

Merry reached up and picked one of the red apples, wiping it on his sleeve before taking a big bite. “Mmmm… so juicy,” he said with his mouth full, handing it over to Melian so she could take a bite. “Well, this is great and all, but how are we supposed to reach most of the apples?” Sam asked as he picked a golden apple to try. He had a point… they were hobbits, after all, and most of the apples on the trees were well beyond their reach. “Climbing the trees, of course!!” Pippin answered, throwing away the core of an apple he was already able to finish.

“Exactly,” Melian said, throwing her basket over to Pippin. “Here… hoist me up,” she said to Merry, who was putting his hands together for her to step on. “Oh, no you don’t,” Sam said, setting his basket on the ground before stepping into Merry’s place. “I won’t have you lookin’ up my sister’s skirt… even if you two are going out,” Sam said. “Sam!!” Melian said, her face as bright as the apples on the tree. “Th-that was not my intention at all!!” Merry exclaimed, innocently. Ever since Bilbo’s party, Sam had been keeping a close eye on them. Of course he approved of Merry, but Melian was his little sister, after all.

Sam hoisted up his sister, who grabbed hold of a branch and lifted herself up into the tree of red apples. “Heads up, Pip!” she said, picking an apple and throwing it down at him, hitting him squarely in the head. The apple bounced off him and fell into the basket, getting his attention. “Ok, I’m ready!” he said, now catching the apples as she threw them down to him. Merry managed to climb into the tree of green apples and began throwing some down to the two other hobbits below.

The four hobbits continued to pick apples, laughing and chatting all the while, and of course stopping for a little picnic snack. All four of their baskets were full, so they decided to head back to the Gamgee residence for their lunch. As they walked back, Melian found herself walking next to Merry, while Pippin and Sam lagged behind a bit. “You want me to carry your basket for a bit?” Merry asked Melian. “No, it’s alright… thanks, though,” she replied.

“I really wasn’t trying to peek up your skirt, you know,” Merry said, Sam’s comment still bugging him. “You’re still thinking about that? I know,” she began. “And Sam does trust you… he’s just being the big brother that he is. And of course I trust you, too. You’ve always been nothing but a gentleman,” Melian said, blushing slightly. Merry smiled at her. He was quite smitten with her, and though they had been seeing a lot more of each other since their date at Bilbo’s party, he didn’t feel right about asking her to court him officially until he had a talk with old Gaffer Gamgee.

They were happy to arrive to the Gamgee residence and to smell the soup that was simmering on the stove for lunch… though not as happy as old Gaffer was when he saw the many baskets of apples. “We can have apple pie, apple butter, apple jam, apple tarts, apple…” and he proceeded to name all the things that they could make with the apples. “One at a time, father… let’s start with apple pie,” Melian said, kissing her father on the cheek.

While she cleaned up the dishes, the boys began peeling and slicing the apples. Melian rolled out the dough and prepared the pie, putting the crust in a cross-hatched pattern before sticking it in the oven. Sam left for his gardening duties at Bag End while the pie baked, and the other three hobbits found themselves in the living room with cups of tea in hand. They talked for a while, until Pippin began nodding off with drowsiness. “I think I’ll have a little cat nap while we wait for the pie,” Pippin said, curling up in the armchair he was sitting in.

“Not a bad idea, actually… we have worked hard today,” Melian said with a yawn. She pulled up her feet on the couch in between her and Merry and rested her head on the arm of the couch, cuddling one of the many couch pillows in her arms as she shut her eyes. Merry continued to quietly read his book until he heard the rhythmic breathing of a sleeping Melian. He peered over at her, and seeing that her mouth was slightly opened, he knew she was definitely asleep.  Melian’s feet had made their way to his lap, so he strategically and quietly got out from beneath them and off the couch.

He roamed around a bit, looking for someone, and then spotting the Gaffer through the window smoking outside, he decided to join him. “Mind if I join?” Merry asked, getting out his pipe from his jacket pocket as he shut the yellow door behind him. “Not at all… I could always use some company,” Gaffer said. Merry began smoking his pipe, mustering up the courage to do what he came here for. They sat in silence for a bit until Merry broke it by saying, “I’ve been wanting to ask you something.”

“What is it, my boy?” Gaffer asked. “Well, I was wondering if I might have your blessing to start courting Melian,” Merry said as coolly as he could, though his face was on fire. “Court her?? Haven’t you been doing so already?” he replied sincerely. “I- well… we have been spending more time together… but I haven’t actually asked her to court me or anything yet,” Merry replied, surprised at the old Gaffer’s answer. “Why yes, of course, boy! I’ve been waiting for a young sensible hobbit to marry my daughter! And why not the future Master of Buckland!! You have my blessing!” Gaffer replied.

Merry sighed a long sigh of relief… though the Gaffer was kind to all he met, Merry couldn’t help but have been a bit nervous in asking him for the blessing to court his daughter. It would eventually lead to marriage of course, and that was no small thing. “Tell me why you’ve chosen my daughter,” Gaffer added. Being the future Master of Buckland was no small thing either, and in the Gaffer’s mind, they were just a family of humble gardeners in comparison. Merry looked at him wide-eyed and then gave some thought before he spoke.

“She’s not like any of the other hobbit girls I know… she’s brave and fun, willing to go on any adventures I put her up to… she even suggests adventures to go on herself, like the apple picking today. She’s smart and perceptive, teaching me knew things and learning of the world around her. She’s beautiful but doesn’t know it. She’s the best baker in the Shire in my opinion… even now I am excited for her apple pie—” he said, suddenly remembering the pie.

“THE PIE!” he said, realizing the smoke he smelled was no longer just pipe weed but also of apple pie coming out the window. He put out his pipe and ran inside, checking the oven to see a beautifully golden crusted apple pie inside. He found some oven mitts and carefully pulled it out of the oven, realizing some of the juice from the pie had spilled to the bottom of the oven, causing the smoke he was smelling. “THE PIE IS DONE!” Melian exclaimed, rushing into the kitchen. “Oh, thank goodness…” she said upon seeing Merry.

“I dozed off longer than expected and when I smelled the smoke, I was afraid my pie was ruined!” she said, walking over and looking at the perfectly baked pie. “You saved it just in time!! What would I do without you, Meriadoc Brandybuck?” she asked, sweetly, patting him on the arm. “Well, you would have a burnt apple pie for one,” he chuckled. “Too true, too true… hey, let’s have a taste of it while it’s still hot! That’s when it’s best, after all,” she replied, looking for her serving knife.

[tanoraqui]

another incredible example of Tolkien’s humor via formal vs casual language:

Faramir, waking from a multi-day fever/despair coma, seeing Aragorn for the first time: My lord, you called me. I come. What does the king command?

Éowyn waking from a brief despair coma: Éomer! What joy is this? For they said that you were slain. Nay, but that was only the dark voices in my dream. How long have I been dreaming?

Merry, waking from a brief despair coma: I am hungry. What is the time?