Chapter 14: Interlude of Winter

"Alright troops," Percia called out in a clear strong voice. "This is the day we've been training for."

She paced back and forth in front of a line of tiny Hobbits, all looking at her with large adoring eyes.

"Those Tweens think that we aren't a threat simply because we're smaller than them," she continued on. "But I say they are underestimating us! What we lack in height we make up in numbers!"

The little ones cheered, Merry and Pippin the loudest of the bunch, as they preferred.

"Now, does everyone have the proper armor?"

Tiny hands lifted up to show they were properly mittened or gloved. A few she had to adjust, along with hats and scarves.

"And do you all have your ammo?"

Small buckets filled with pre-made snowballs were pointed at excitedly.

"Prune, Falco, you two ready to make more if necessary?"

Both of them nodded excitedly, their rosy cheeks barely visible for all the scarves their mothers had wrapped them in.

"Sam, how are our defensive positions?"

"Ready Miss Percia," he replied, leaning against his shovel. "Got them just the height you wanted."

"Excellent!" A few of the other faunts patted the boy on the back in thanks. "Alright then! We are ready to face the Tweens in the annual snowball fight! Remember, watch out for your fellow faunts and we shall win the day! Let's go!"

The children all cheered before scattering to their designated places behind strategically placed snow mounds. Percia was up front, keeping an eye on the 'enemy', who seemed to be more focused on talking with each other than preparing for the battle. Teenage hormones just ruin things. Oh well, it would be their gain in the end.

Discretely checking on her troops she nodded to see them all in position. Giving the signal, the first shots were away and the great battle began.

Xxx

Bilbo turned the page of his book calmly as he enjoyed the warmth of the fire. This year's winter had been colder than expected, though still far warmer than the Fell Winter. It hadn't snowed as much either. Though there was still enough to allow the children out to play in it.

The thought had him glancing at the clock. Percia had been gone a few hours now, which meant she'd probably be dragging in any minute. With a sigh he closed his book, after marking his place, and hauled himself out of his very comfortable sitting chair. After all it was close to tea time and she'd likely be dragging guests behind her.

Once the kettle was on he took the time to make a plateful of scones and biscuits. He placed those on the table and finished pulling out some cups just as the front door slammed open. Honestly, that girl just refused to remember simple manners.

"Uncle Bilbo," Frodo's slightly shrill voice interrupted his thoughts. Turning, he barely braced himself as the faunt crashed into his legs. Bilbo smiled down at the familiar curly hair, noting he was getting much taller. Wouldn't be long before the lad was entering his Tween years.

"Frodo my boy," he greeted happily, ruffling the wild curls. "Did you have fun today?"

"It was amazing! Our team defeated the Tweens! I even managed to get cousin Ludo right in the nose," the child babbled excitedly.

"Did you? Well, you'll be a right champ at conkers then," he chuckled.

"No doubt about that," Percia informed as she finally made it to the kitchen. Her hair was in its usual braid, though still a mess. Her cheeks were bright red from the cold and her clothes were damp despite the layers she had worn out earlier. "This one's got amazing aim. Old Apollo would snatch him right up!"

Frodo beamed at her while Bilbo just chuckled.

"Well, tea is almost ready so why don't you two rascals slip into something a bit warmer and come join me?"

Immediately the two dashed towards Percia's room so she could change and Frodo could get his spare set of clothes that he kept there for his visits. It seemed silly now how in the past Bilbo always coveted his peace and quiet. Really he didn't think he could enjoy life as much if not for the noise.

A loud crash interrupted his musings.

"What was that," he yelled out in worry.

"Nothing." Both youngsters answered simultaneously.

Bilbo rolled his eyes in disbelief, yet a smile still stretched across his lips. Today was a good day.

XOXOXO

Note: this story will likely take a hiatus, but I will be adding chapters to the follow up story: Percia and the One Ring.