[Boromir88]

Could it really be Gandalf himself? Oh, Rory remembered so many stories about the Grey Rider. However, Rory wasn't so easily convinced (as much as the others) that he was who he says he is. He could have sworn hearing stories about Frodo going away, with a Gandalf. His suspicions of the man disappeared as he started remembering stories about what the real Gandalf did. The best part was fireworks. He had heard wonderous stories about Gandalf's fireworks. Though he had never seen them, or atleast he didn't remember them, he was was still very young when Gandalf last shot off fireworks at Bilbo's party. Rory got caught up so much about fireworks, he forgot all his suspicions about the old man.

"So, Mr. Gandalf sir, this place is perilous then?" Rory asked.

"Any place is perilous, young Rory, even the Shire. That you will find out in time." Gandalf replied, Rory looked confused.

"I've heard some wonderful things about your fireworks, Mr. Gandalf. Do you suppose if we ever get back home you could show us some?"

"I must say, I have not come prepared for a show, and they are only for special occasions Mr. Brandybuck. It's a pity since you would all be too young, or not even born, when I shot them off at Bilbo's party, I presume?"

All the hobbits nodded enthusiastically. Hearing about fireworks excited them all. However, Rory couldn't explain it, he just got a funny feeling about the old man.

He whispered trying to make sure Gandalf didn't hear him, "I think we should be cautious, atleast have someone stay up and watch him. I could have sworn I heard about Gandalf disappearing with Frodo, and...and Sam Gamgee."

"Don't be silly Rory, of course he is Gandalf. What would be his reason to lie?" one of the hobbits said, not understanding Rory's reasons for concern.

"Still, it wouldn't hurt to watch him, atleast until we are sure."

Somehow the man overheard the conversation, "Well Rory, I tell you I am Gandalf, and if my word is not good enough for you, that is your own problem." Most of the hobbits seemed to agree with him.

Rory didn't understand. When had he ever been wrong, yet? Sure he makes jokes during inappropriate times, but he can't remember a time on this adventure when he said something, and he hadn't been right. Maybe, I need to get more serious, then people would start listening to me, Rory grumbled.