.. Your gardens..? [ that's oddly charming, and he finds himself slowly loosening his defensive curl in the corner, tipping his temple against the wall as he listens to bilbo. ] I cannot say I know much of gardens, having always been more inclined to the forges and to that which is martial, but perhaps your neighbors will maintain them until you return.

[ a brief pause, then, and he hums out a soft noise. ] You are kind to say so. To be truthful, though, as the eldest son, it is necessary that I.. collect myself in a more fitting manner.