~~~Hello and welcome to the Busy Bee's Book Club Podcast!~~~

Today, we continue with Chapter 13, of The Hobbit.

After the riddles, and roaring fire, and the unshakeable feeling Bilbo had, the Hobbit and the Dwarves decided it was best to shut themselves inside the secret tunnel, and avoid his wrath. There was no knowing if they'd survive otherwise...

Smaug left in a fiery rage the night or so before, but the company of Thorin Oakenshield still sat quiet as mice wondering when the great Dragon would attack next! Brave little Bilbo decided there was nothing for it, but to investigate the Dragon's hall yet again, and see how it looked. To his surprise there was no Dragon, no more than there was light. Stumbling in the darkness, he pockets the Arkenstone, (or so he supposes it is) and makes his way to the far end of the treasure hall. They all wander out after some time, hoping to investigate further while the Dragon appears to be away. It is while doing this they think of planning their next move. With the help of Balin and Thorin, they safely traverse the ruins of the once prosperous and impressive castle and make towards the guard tower in old RavenHill. The desolation of Smaug was so great and solemn; they all struggle to think of how they will best him. Many many years have passed, and yet the barren land is just as desolate as that fateful day when the Wyrm first came down from the North, and sealed their fates. Indeed, where has Smaug gotten to...no matter which direction they look they cannot see him in the looming distance...

~Have a wonderful day, and thanks for listening~