Bilbo Baggins is the oldest of all the Hobbits. He has benefited from the life-extending powers of the Ring, all the while taking the risk that it could ultimately claim his soul. Trusting Gandalf's counsel, Bilbo gives up the Ring and goes to Rivendell to enjoy his retirement. There, beneath the trees and in the company of his Elvish friends, Bilbo at last begins to feel the touch of time. As the long years of his life carve their lines slowly upon his features, the old Hobbit's only care is for the safe return of his beloved cousin Frodo.