The Quiet Corner of Bree

A Bond of Friendship deck

A Bree-Flavored Fellowship

“Good evening, little masters! If you’re looking for accommodation, we’ve got some nice, cosy, hobbit-size rooms.” — Barliman Butterbur

At the crossroads of the wilds and the Shire lies Bree — a village of smoke, suspicion, and second breakfasts. Here, four unlikely figures form a quiet fellowship:

Aragorn, known only as Strider, cloaked in shadow and waiting for his hour Barliman Butterbur, good-natured and absent-minded, but loyal to the small folk Harry Goatleaf, the gatekeeper whose eyes may linger too long Nob, the overlooked servant with a knack for being in the right place at the right time

“Barliman Butterbur at your service! Now what was I going to say? Oh yes! Welcome, welcome, make yourselves at home! I am always proud to cater to Little Folk.”

This deck evokes the smoky coziness of The Prancing Pony. Half-pints and full Pints are poured, Bree Pony's are saddled, and Scheming Staddlers guard the alleyways with slurred wisdom and keen ears.

Frodo’s Vanishing Act

In this deck, Frodo Baggins appears as a temporary ally — much like his sudden arrival in Bree. But when danger strikes or curiosity gets the better of him, he vanishes, just as he slips on the Ring and disappears from sight.

Later, he reemerges from the shadows just as Strider steps forward to change the course of the tale.

“You’d better do something quick!” — Strider, whispering from the corner

Gameplay Notes

Use Born Aloft or Sneak Attack on Frodo to simulate his “disappearance” with the Ring. Bring him back later for thematic effect (and well-timed willpower or ring-lore) Barliman tanks attacks to protect the Hobbits — just as in the story Half-pints and Pints set the tone — who said alcohol is bad for morale? Aragorn, evolves with Andúril, Sword that was Broken and Ring of Barahir.

Bond of Friendship gives you access to four spheres — perfectly matching Bree's motley crew

Final Toast

“He’s one of them Rangers — dangerous folk they are, wandering the wilds...” — Barliman Butterbur

The road to Rivendell begins not with prophecy or power, but with second breakfast, scattered courage, and ale spilled on a crooked table. The fate of the world may rest in the hands of kings — but it starts here, in Bree, with those small enough to go unnoticed… and brave enough to take the first step.

So then... Welcome to Bree. Hang your cloak. Light your pipe. But watch the shadows.