So, the day of our journey has come. It is early January of 3019 of the Third Age. We have gathered our forces, we have assembled the fellowship that will be the core of this long journey.
The road will be dangerous, for it leads through the range of the Mountains that is rarely traversed at this time of year. We are not leaving Bree unprepared, though. Our fellowship consists of experienced and skilled trackers, hunters and lore-masters. Our horses will haul the food and weapons all the way to Glóin's camp, high up in the Mountains, where we will be heading for the first part of our trip.
The road will be long and tiresome, but exhaustion and dire conditions are not uncommon to us. We have endured far worse, and each of my kinsmen poses a strong figure, ready for such an adventure. Many will ask themselves, why have we picked this time of year for such a quest? Why are we delving into the cold caves of the harshest mountains when the snow is covering all known roads, all known landmarks? Why are we risking our lives, and with them, the lives of Bree-landers that will be devoid of our share of troops defending it?
The answer is simple. We must not wait any longer. The danger in the Mountains is stirring as each day passes. We do not think of our lives anymore. We think of lives of the Elves in Imladris, the lives of all the Free Peoples that would be overwhelmed by the power of foul creatures that dwell in those caves. The Goblins... As numerous as they can be... Their power lies in numbers, and not in wits or weapons. For that purpose, we have assembled a band of sturdiest warriors, hunters and Men of honor. We shall not wait a day longer. The roads may be blocked by snow, the paths may be hidden, but our resolute to reach the Goblin outposts in the mountains is stronger than ever, for we know that we fight for the right cause.
Our road will take us through Imladris, or Rivendell as Men of Bree would call it. Yes, we will be blessed by Lord Elrond, for I have brought him the news of our departure.
However, we did not take all of our Men to this journey. The reason for such decision is quite logical - the Enemy lurks in the shadows, creeping and looking to exploit any weakness of ours. That is why we will instruct our strongest guards and captains to remain in Bree and serve to its citizens. And yes, we will live to see Bree once again.
Until we come back, fare well Bree-landers.
