The Quest of Erebor Summary

The tale begins with Frodo recounting Gandalf's recollection of how Bilbo came to join the company of the elves. Gandalf knows that Sauron is stirring once again, and is trying to guess what his plans might include. His mind is greatly troubled by the times, and he knows that he must find some way to deal with the dragon Smaug. Gandalf decides to head to the Shire for a short rest, hoping that the downtime will lead him to answers. It turns out that he finds an answer though not where he might have expected. Just as he enters the village of Bree, he crosses paths with Thorin Oakenshield. Thorin confesses to Gandalf that he is trying to find a way to avenge his family and defeat Smaug himself. Gandalf promises to try and find some way...