Third Age 3000
From Tolkien Gateway
- The shadow of Mordor lengthens.
- Saruman dares to use the palantír of Orthanc, but becomes ensnared by Sauron, who has the Ithil Stone. He becomes a traitor to the White Council. His spies report that the Shire is being closely guarded by the Rangers.
- One day, Bilbo Baggins sees the Sackville-Bagginses approaching along the road. Using his Ring he evades an unwanted meeting with them. Unknown to him, the whole scene is witnessed by young Meriadoc Brandybuck.[1]