FOTR/fortify and defend the Shire
From Create Your Own Story
Gandalf is afraid of what could happen if he leaves Frodo alone, or tries to take him into the wilderness before he is ready. So, he sends word to Bree (via a dwarf passing through) that defense forces are needed, and that Aragorn is to rally the Rangers and other Men of the North to defend the Shire.
After a short time, the Rangers (led by Halbarad) arrive in the Shire - large, stern men who look well-traveled and grim. They arrive just in time - as the Ringwraiths are about to attack, the Rangers organize hobbit archers with flaming arrows for a defense. The battle is costly, but the Ringwraiths are thwarted.
(There is a downside to their victory - for the enemy now knows there is something worth defending in the Shire. Gandalf does not know it, but Sauruman is getting ready to push his Uruk-Hai forces north to attack the Shire and claim the ring.)
In the chaos, men controlled by the Ringwraiths take over Bree, making that part of the Shire impassable.
Decision
What should Gandalf do?
- Even though it is riskuy, stay in the Shire to work out your next move.
- Seek out Tom Bombadil.
- Travel south with the Rangers to speak with Sauruman.
