(1)

Saruman found the ring one day in his own wine cellar. He very often went down there to grab a bottle of wine or two, so he immediately noticed his new guest when he opened the door that evening. It was a Midsummer Day, and he was going to celebrate it in the Pixie Valley, and so he wanted to bring very wonderful wines for his pixie friends. The ring said hello to him the first moment that Saruman noticed its presence.

'I am a bit embarrassed,' said the ring. 'I did not ask for permission to enter.'

'It is all right,' said Saruman. 'I have never seen you before except for a page in a book. You are such a wonder. It is a greatest thing that I can today see you and talk to you.'

'I didn't know I was famous,' said the ring. 'How well known is that book?'

'Well, it is not very well known, it is more of a secret book', explained Saruman. 'But every mage knows about you. You are the first of the ten most sacred rings of all earths.'

The ring and Saruman spent some more time in the cellar, talking. Saruman presented the ring with some great wine, and they both sipped it happily. They talked about magic and learning, and schools, and the career of Saruman.

'I never wanted to ask for permission to enter,' the ring admitted in the middle of conversation. 'I actually was looking to spend this night alone in some other place than my normal home.'

'Is that because of today's celebrations?' asked Saruman.

'Yes. Many criminals try to find treasures on this very night. I spend so much time inside my home that they might already know my address. And so I came here. I want to be safe always.'

'You are very wise. You are one of the few most precious things in the world. I am happy that you care so much for your safety. The world is gracious for your wisdom, dear ring.'

Soon it got too late for them to talk, so they said good-bye to each other. Saruman left his house to visit his friends, and the ring stayed at his home until late morning, surrounded with blessing spells which Saruman casted for his well-being. They both found their meeting to be a very important event in their lives.