Never Enough (my entry)

Instructions

Bilbo picked up his second breakfast tray and carried it to the porch. He sat down in his chair and took a deep breath of fresh air while munching on a pastry. He sighed contently and smiled to himself. “This is the life. No more battles or angry foes brandishing swords.” he chuckled. “It was fun at times but I’m glad it’s over.” He sat there for a while taking in everything around him. The bustling neighbors caring for their gardens and the birds twittering overhead. After a few minutes however he saw a tall figure walking towards his house. He squinted in the bright sunshine, trying to make out who it was. Deep down though, he knew that walk, the way the man looked around him. The air of owning the world. Gandalf. Bilbos heart seemed to sigh for he knew it must be bad news. Gandalf never paid a visit unless it was to discuss something important. Soon he was carefully making his way up the small steps to the front door. He stopped and turned to Bilbo with a broad smile. “Hello there Bilbo!” he said. “It’s a fine day isn’t it?” “Why-why yes, it is.” Bilbo faltered. Gandalf smiled and sat down next to him. “May I?” he asked, reaching for a scone. “Of course.” The two sat quietly for a few minutes during which Bilbo silently hoped that Gandalf was just here to spend some time with him, to talk. But apparently Gandalf had no such intention. He gently dapped at his mouth with a napkin and leaned back in his chair. “I have news from the North.” he said. “What?” Bilbo asked, growing a bit nervous. “It’s the elves and the dwarves. The elves were at it again, they can really rile up those dwarves.” he sighed. “Oh, those elves and their comments!” cried Bilbo. “What have they said now?” “Not much I don’t think, just a simple disagreement that turned into a battle.” Gandalf replied simply. Bilbo gaped at him. “A battle? This time it’s gone too far…what will we do?” he asked. “Well I’ve tried everything I can think of and nothing I say will calm them down. Dwarves are offended very easily you know you know.” he said. “Actually I was wondering if you would come with me to sort things out. They always listen to you.” he said. Bilbo looked down. “I would love to Gandalf but I can’t. I have…” he paused looking for the right words. “Too much to do. Yes! Too much to do. So I’m very sorry but you must go back alone.” he said, confident in his excuse. Gandalf, however, looked him right in the eye and said, “Like what? Having twelve different breakfasts?” he asked, chuckling. Bilbo looked taken aback. “Well I never!” he scoffed. Gandalf laughed. “Come on, old friend! For me! For the elves and the dwarves!” he cried. “But what can I possibly do to help?” asked Bilbo, desperate for a way out of this predicament. “Well, everything I do is never enough so maybe YOU can do something. SOMEONE needs to try, I’m out of ideas. Besides, you’re more brilliant than you think.” he said, winking. Bilbo sighed. “Well…” he started. “Perfect!” Gandalf interrupted. “I’ll get your horse ready!” And that was that.